A groundbreaking fitness initiative in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is redefining the local exercise scene by introducing civilians to the rigors of military training. Spearheaded by four seasoned military veterans from the US and UK, the ZD30 programme blends authentic combat-inspired workouts with amphibious training, emphasizing mental resilience and real-life readiness. Founded by former US Marine Scott Blydenburgh, alongside retired US Marine Corps Scout Sniper Akim Jones and Royal Marines veterans Jordan Penman and Jordan Riley, ZD30 has quickly gained traction, attracting over 100 participants since its launch in mid-September. The programme’s unique structure includes four core training modules: amphibious exercises focusing on water-based resilience and breath control, military calisthenics for body-weight strength, operational strength drills involving carrying and lifting, and combat fit sessions simulating high-intensity scenarios. Patricia Jimenez, a co-founder, highlights the programme’s focus on practical skills and mental fortitude, stating, ‘We’re not building bigger muscles or better abs — we’re working on mental resilience.’ Participants like Brian Hogan, an IT project manager and athlete, praise the programme’s emphasis on discipline and teamwork, noting that punctuality and accountability are non-negotiable. The bootcamp’s amphibious sessions, inspired by US Marines’ water operations, are particularly challenging, designed to teach participants to remain calm and coordinated under pressure. Upcoming events include a special community workout on November 15 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the US Marine Corps. Classes are held weekly in both cities, with monthly community events and specialised sessions available. Each class costs Dh80 and can be booked through the Meet and Train app. The programme’s founders aim to create a meaningful fitness community focused on real-life preparedness rather than vanity. ‘Real fitness means being ready for life,’ Patricia added, reflecting on her personal motivation to stay strong for her daughter. The ZD30 initiative is a testament to the UAE’s thriving fitness culture, offering a unique blend of military discipline and civilian fitness aspirations.
分类： society
-
Guangzhou exempts kindergarten fees for select age groups
Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, has announced a significant policy change in early childhood education. Starting from the fall semester of this year, childcare and education fees will be waived for children in the senior class of kindergartens, encompassing both public and private institutions across urban and rural areas. This initiative, unveiled by the city’s education bureau on Tuesday, marks a progressive step in the rollout of free preschool education. While the policy currently applies only to senior class students, fees for junior and middle classes will remain unchanged, adhering to existing regulations. For private kindergartens approved by the education department, fees will be adjusted to align with the exemption levels of public counterparts, though families may still be required to cover any additional costs beyond the standard exemption. Public full-time regular kindergartens in Guangzhou currently charge 823 yuan ($115.9) per student monthly, while demonstration kindergartens charge 995 yuan. Public boarding kindergartens, on the other hand, impose fees 30% higher than the full-time standard. This policy aims to alleviate financial burdens on families while promoting equitable access to quality early education.
-
Ex-officer guilty of murder of Sonya Massey after she reported suspected intruder
A former Illinois sheriff’s deputy has been convicted of second-degree murder in the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old mother of two, during a response to a 911 call in July 2024. The incident occurred at Massey’s home near Springfield, Illinois, after she reported a suspected intruder. Sean Grayson, 31, the ex-officer involved, claimed he fired his weapon because he believed Massey was about to throw a pot of boiling water at him. The confrontation escalated when Massey, who was unarmed, repeatedly said, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Grayson, who initially faced first-degree murder charges, was convicted of the lesser charge of second-degree murder and could face up to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors argued that Grayson’s actions were not those of a frightened officer but rather of a bully who lost control. The case has reignited discussions about police conduct and accountability in the United States.
-
New forum for Islamic art launches at House of Lords to celebrate ‘shared human journey’
A groundbreaking initiative dedicated to celebrating Islamic arts, architecture, and cultural heritage has officially launched at the House of Lords in Westminster. The event, attended by over a hundred guests, marked the inauguration of the Forum for Islamic Art, Architecture & Cultural Heritage, led by Baroness Nosheena Mobarik, a distinguished Conservative peer. The forum aims to highlight the intellectual and cultural contributions of Islamic civilization while fostering dialogue, education, and public engagement. Among the attendees were British peers, ambassadors from Muslim-majority nations, and notable figures from the fields of architecture and cultural heritage. Walid Iqbal, a prominent Pakistani politician and grandson of the revered poet-philosopher Sir Muhammad Iqbal, was also present. The forum, supported by the Adam Foundation, arrives at a critical juncture amid rising anti-Muslim sentiment. Baroness Mobarik emphasized the forum’s mission to host a year-long series of seminars and events, encouraging politicians and the public to explore Islam’s rich artistic and architectural legacy. She highlighted the interconnectedness of cultures, stating, ‘The story of civilization is not one of parallel histories, but of intertwined ones.’ The event featured presentations by leading figures in Islamic art, including Noorah al-Gailani, curator of the British Museum’s Islamic Collections, and Professor Farrokh Derakhshani, chair of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Iranian artist Jila Peacock also shared insights on the medieval Persian poet Hafez, accompanied by an animated film based on her work. Baroness Mobarik concluded, ‘This forum is about seeing societies in a positive light and ensuring young people appreciate each other’s heritage.’
-
Dubai Housekeeping elevates staff welfare with major health and scholarship initiatives
Dubai Housekeeping, a leading residential cleaning service provider in Dubai, has reaffirmed its commitment to ethical employment practices through a series of impactful staff welfare initiatives. The company recently concluded its Second Annual Health Awareness Event at Fakeeh University Hospital, completed its Annual Vision Wellness Drive, and awarded academic scholarships to the children of its employees for the second consecutive year. These efforts underscore the company’s dedication to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of its workforce. The Health Awareness Event, held on September 20, 2025, featured comprehensive wellness workshops and medical consultations, focusing on preventive healthcare and addressing common health issues among service professionals. The Annual Vision Wellness Drive provided complimentary eye check-ups for all staff, with 64 employees receiving prescription glasses at no cost. Additionally, ten children of team members were awarded scholarships, supporting their educational aspirations and reflecting the company’s commitment to family welfare. Uttam Bhatia, co-founder of Dubai Housekeeping, emphasized that prioritizing staff welfare is integral to the company’s success, stating, ‘A joyful, well-supported team translates directly into the exceptional service our clients expect.’
-
Three monkeys at large after primates escape from crashed truck in US
A dramatic incident unfolded on a Mississippi highway when a truck transporting monkeys overturned, leading to the escape of several animals. Local authorities initially reported that all but one of the monkeys had been euthanized, but later updates revealed that three monkeys remained at large. The monkeys, identified as Rhesus monkeys, were en route to Tulane University’s National Biomedical Research Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, for scientific research. Initial concerns about the monkeys carrying diseases were later dismissed by Tulane University, which clarified that the animals had not been exposed to any infectious agents. The exact number of monkeys on the truck, their ownership, destination, and the cause of the accident remain unclear. Tulane University emphasized that it was not responsible for the transportation or ownership of the primates at the time of the incident but dispatched a team of animal care experts to assist officials. Videos circulating online captured the monkeys navigating through tall grass near the highway, with wooden crates labeled ‘live animals’ scattered across the scene. The incident has sparked widespread attention and raised questions about the safety and ethics of transporting animals for research purposes.
-
Mumbai and Kuwait-based Indians win $1 million each in Dubai Duty Free draw
The Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw has once again transformed lives, with two Indians and an Afghan national becoming the latest winners of the coveted $1 million prize. The event, held on October 29, 2025, at Dubai International Airport, also awarded luxury vehicles to three UAE residents in the Finest Surprise draw.
Akshaypat Singhania, a 56-year-old real estate and equity market professional from Mumbai, won $1 million with ticket #2837 in Series 520. A dedicated participant for over two decades, Singhania expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘A very big thanks to Dubai Duty Free—finally, after so many years!’
Joining him was Srinivas Teja Reddy Gaddam, a 35-year-old cost controller from Kuwait, who claimed his $1 million prize with ticket #2700 in Series 521. Gaddam, who has been participating since 2024, exclaimed, ‘Thank you Dubai Duty Free! I feel that I’m the luckiest!’
Mohammad Khan Barakzai, an Afghan national, was also celebrated as the first Afghan winner since the promotion began in 1999. He won $1 million in Series 519.
In the Finest Surprise draw, Sanjeev Karatil, a 45-year-old health and safety inspector from Dubai, won a BMW XM (Cape Green Metallic) with ticket #1631. A father of two, Karatil has been a regular participant for several years. Mohammed Qassim, a 50-year-old Emirati, secured a Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE P360 (Santorini Black) with ticket #0660, marking his second luxury car win. Lastly, Sameer Kunni Parambil, a 37-year-old sales official, won an Indian Super Scout (Maroon Metallic) motorbike with ticket #0547.
The Dubai Duty Free promotions continue to bring joy and life-changing opportunities to participants worldwide.
-
‘An assault on history’: Censorship of author Susan Abulhawa roils Oxford Union
The Oxford Union, renowned as the world’s most prestigious debating society, is at the center of a heated controversy following accusations of censoring Palestinian-American author Susan Abulhawa’s speech. The dispute erupted after the society’s members voted to upload Abulhawa’s full speech from November 2024, defying alleged pressure from the union’s trustees. Despite the vote, the video remains unpublished, with union president Moosa Harraj claiming his hands are tied due to legal concerns. Abulhawa has since filed a lawsuit against the union, accusing it of discrimination and copyright infringement. The controversy has sparked outrage among union members, who argue that the censorship violates the society’s foundational commitment to free speech. The union, founded in 1823, has a long history of hosting influential debates, but this incident has raised questions about its independence and integrity. Abulhawa, a celebrated writer, has condemned the censorship, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical records and intellectual property. The case has drawn comparisons to historic Oxford Union speeches by civil rights leaders Malcolm X and James Baldwin, underscoring the broader implications of the current controversy.
-
Spain holds memorial ceremony for flood victims a year after disaster killed over 230 people
VALENCIA, Spain — Spain solemnly marked the one-year anniversary of the catastrophic floods that claimed over 230 lives with a national memorial ceremony led by King Felipe VI on October 29, 2025. The event, held at a public museum in Valencia, brought together grieving families, government officials, and public figures to remember one of Europe’s deadliest natural disasters in recent history. The floods, triggered by torrential rains on October 29, 2024, overwhelmed dry gorges and riverbeds, sweeping away vehicles, destroying homes, and leaving a trail of devastation across eastern Spain. The Valencia region bore the brunt of the tragedy, with 229 of the 237 confirmed deaths occurring there. King Felipe VI, alongside Queen Letizia and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, paid tribute to the victims, while family members shared emotional testimonies. The ceremony also highlighted the growing concerns over climate change, with experts and officials pointing to the disaster as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. However, the event was not without controversy. Valencia’s regional president, Carlos Mazón, faced jeers and insults from victims’ families, who criticized his administration’s slow response to the crisis. Mazón, who has been the target of large-scale protests demanding his resignation, has remained in power despite widespread dissatisfaction with his handling of the disaster. The memorial served as a poignant moment of reflection, underscoring the enduring pain of the affected communities and the urgent need for climate action.
-
Morocco charges more than 2,400 people over Gen Z protests
Morocco has taken a stern stance against recent youth-led protests, charging over 2,400 individuals in what has become one of the country’s most significant anti-government movements in years. The demonstrations, organized by the Gen Z 212 movement, initially aimed to highlight the government’s neglect of public services while prioritizing infrastructure for sporting events. However, the protests escalated into violence in several cities, resulting in three deaths, numerous injuries, and property damage. Authorities responded with mass arrests, with 1,473 people remaining in custody pending trial on charges ranging from armed rebellion to inciting felonies and assaulting public officials. Human rights groups have condemned the government’s heavy-handed approach, labeling the arrests as arbitrary and excessive. The Moroccan Association for Human Rights and Gen Z 212 have called for the immediate release of all detainees. Among those arrested is Hamza Raid, a politically outspoken rapper whose lyrics resonate with the frustrations of Moroccan youth. In a recent court hearing, three individuals faced charges for printing activist slogans on soccer jerseys, potentially facing up to five years in prison. The public prosecutor reported that over 400 people have already been sentenced, with terms ranging from one to 15 years, while 34 were acquitted. The crackdown has intensified tensions, with protesters now rallying for the release of those arrested, further fueling the movement’s momentum.