In a significant move to enforce labor regulations, Saudi Arabia has shut down 10 recruitment firms and penalized 27 others for violating labor laws. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development conducted nationwide inspections during the third quarter of 2025, uncovering numerous infractions. The suspended firms were found guilty of breaching recruitment and labor service rules, delaying client reimbursements, and failing to address beneficiary complaints effectively. The ministry has urged the public to utilize Musaned, the official national platform for recruitment services, which facilitates direct communication with approved providers and allows for evaluation, reporting, and follow-up. Violations can be reported via the number 920002866 or through the Musaned app. This crackdown underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring fair labor practices.
分类: society
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These confederate statues caused nationwide protests. Melted down, they’re now art pieces
A thought-provoking exhibition in Los Angeles is redefining the legacy of Confederate monuments, sparking debates about history, race, and memory. The centerpiece of the show, titled \”Monuments,\” features 18 decommissioned Confederate statues, including the infamous equestrian statue of General Robert E. Lee, which once stood in Charlottesville, Virginia. The statue, now melted into bronze ingots, is displayed alongside toxic slag from the process, symbolizing the contentious history it represents.
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India sparkles as millions celebrate Diwali festival
Millions across India are immersed in the vibrant festivities of Diwali, the festival of lights, a cornerstone of Hindu tradition. Homes and streets glow with the warm light of earthen lamps, known as diyas, while fireworks light up the night sky. However, the joyous celebrations come with a significant environmental cost, particularly in northern India, where air pollution spikes during the winter months. This year, the Supreme Court has allowed the sale and use of ‘green crackers’ in Delhi, lifting a ban in place since 2020. These eco-friendly alternatives claim to reduce pollution by 20–30%, though their effectiveness remains debated. Despite restrictions in several states, the widespread use of traditional firecrackers continues to exacerbate air quality issues post-Diwali. Beyond the environmental concerns, Diwali is a time of cultural richness. Families prepare elaborate feasts featuring traditional sweets, curries, and savoury dishes, while homes are adorned with colourful rangoli designs and paper lanterns. The festival also fosters community spirit, transcending religious boundaries as people of all faiths join in the celebrations. Markets bustle with shoppers, providing a significant boost to the economy. Diwali remains a testament to India’s cultural unity and resilience, even as the nation grapples with the dual challenges of preserving tradition and protecting the environment.
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Video: 2 Kuwaitis arrested for violent robbery; legal action taken against them
Two Kuwaiti nationals employed by the Ministry of Defence have been arrested for committing a violent robbery in Hawalli Governorate, as confirmed by the Gulf country’s Ministry of Interior on Sunday. The incident unfolded after an Asian resident reported being robbed by two individuals, one of whom restrained him while the other stole his belongings before fleeing the scene. The Salmiya Investigation Office launched a thorough probe, utilizing surveillance camera footage to identify the perpetrators. Authorities successfully apprehended one suspect, who confessed to the crime and implicated his accomplice. The second suspect was subsequently arrested and also admitted to his involvement. During the search operations, authorities discovered substances suspected to be narcotics and drug paraphernalia in the suspects’ possession. Both individuals, along with the seized items, have been referred to the competent authorities for legal proceedings. In a statement, the Ministry of Interior emphasized that the law will be enforced without exception, underscoring its commitment to combating all forms of crime.
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Watch: Heavy rains in UAE cause rockfall on road, drivers struggle to pass
Heavy rainfall in the UAE has led to hazardous conditions, particularly in the mountainous regions of Masafi, Fujairah. Rocks and debris have tumbled onto roads, creating perilous driving scenarios. A video shared by the weather-focused account Storm_ae captured vehicles navigating cautiously around large boulders on a mountainous road. The National Meteorological Centre has issued yellow and orange warnings, urging residents to remain vigilant during outdoor activities and adhere to safety guidelines. The UAE’s east coast is particularly affected, with authorities advising motorists to reduce speed and exercise caution, especially in hilly areas prone to landslides and rockfalls during heavy rains. Despite the challenges, some residents have embraced the weather, enjoying mini waterfalls and streams formed by the overflowing rainwater. The National Meteorological Centre forecasts continued rain and strong winds in the coming days, with unsettled weather expected during the transitional period between summer and winter. Scattered showers are anticipated in Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah on Monday and Tuesday. The region has also experienced a noticeable drop in temperatures, offering a respite from the recent intense heat. Humidity levels are expected to rise, reaching up to 91% in Sweihan, Al Ain, and around 85% in Abu Dhabi and Dubai next week. Despite the erratic rains, temperatures will remain high, with daytime highs hovering around the 30s, peaking at 37°C in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The Northern Emirates, however, will remain slightly cooler.
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‘Still feels like Diwali’: How Dubai expats plan to celebrate on working, school day
As the Indian community in Dubai prepares to celebrate Diwali, this year’s festivities are marked by a unique blend of tradition and practicality. Falling on a Monday, the ‘festival of lights’ coincides with the resumption of work and school schedules, prompting families to creatively balance their daily routines with cherished rituals.
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Sheikh Mohammed extends warm Diwali greetings to expats, global Indian community
As Dubai’s streets and balconies glow with festive lights, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has extended warm Diwali greetings to the Indian expatriate community in the UAE and across the globe. In his heartfelt message, he expressed, ‘Warmest wishes and greetings to those celebrating Diwali in the UAE and around the world. May this festival of lights bring peace, safety, and prosperity to you and your loved ones. Happy Diwali!’ This gesture underscores the UAE’s commitment to multiculturalism and its respect for the diverse cultures that enrich its society. With over four million Indian expats residing in the UAE, Diwali has become a widely celebrated festival, marked by vibrant decorations, family gatherings, and community events. Homes across Dubai are adorned with floral arrangements, while government-approved fireworks displays and mall decorations add to the festive spirit. However, authorities have reminded residents to adhere to safety guidelines, emphasizing that the use of unlicensed fireworks is strictly prohibited and could result in severe legal consequences. The celebration also boosts local businesses, particularly gold jewellers, who report strong sales during this period. Many jewellers curate exclusive collections and offer discounts to cater to the festive demand. Sheikh Mohammed’s message reflects the UAE’s inclusive ethos, fostering unity and harmony among its multicultural population.
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Dubai Police launch beach patrols to increase safety along coast
Dubai Police have launched a series of innovative initiatives aimed at bolstering safety along the city’s coastline. These measures, unveiled by Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, during his inspection of the Ports Police Station, include beach patrols, summer training programs for children, and volunteer opportunities for the public. The beach patrols will monitor Dubai’s shores to ensure the safety of beachgoers, while summer training programs will equip school students with lifeguarding and rescue skills. Additionally, the public is encouraged to participate in maritime security efforts by volunteering for marine rescue training and incident reporting. Lieutenant General Al Marri also reviewed the station’s fleet of boats and jet skis, ensuring their readiness for emergencies. Last year, the Ports Police Station successfully secured over 100 maritime events across 12 sea zones and 7 land jurisdictions. The station’s teams have also excelled in local and international sporting competitions, earning multiple medals. Among Dubai Police’s forward-thinking projects is Haddad, an eco-friendly, self-driving smart police boat equipped with remote-control functions and advanced monitoring systems. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s Urban Plan 2040 and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Lieutenant General Al Marri emphasized the importance of evolving security systems to match Dubai’s rapid development, praising the Ports Police Station as a vital hub for coastal safety. He affirmed that Dubai’s leadership fully supports these efforts, reinforcing the emirate’s reputation as one of the world’s safest coastal cities.
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Stolen treasures, a crown in the gutter – and serious questions for Louvre security
In a brazen act of theft that has shaken the art world, the Louvre Museum in Paris fell victim to a meticulously planned heist targeting the French crown jewels. The robbery, which occurred in the Apollo Gallery on Sunday morning, is being described as the most audacious since the infamous disappearance of the Mona Lisa in 1911. The gang, described by France’s new Interior Minister Laurent Nunez as highly professional, executed the theft in just seven minutes, leaving authorities grappling with serious questions about the security of French cultural treasures. The thieves used a truck equipped with an elevating platform to access the first floor, where they cut through a window to enter the gallery. Once inside, they targeted two display cases containing remnants of the French crown jewels, including diadems, necklaces, earrings, and brooches. Among the stolen items was the Empress Eugénie Brooch, a priceless artifact from the 19th century. The gang’s swift and calculated operation highlights the growing sophistication of criminal groups targeting museums. Despite the alarms sounding correctly and the prompt response of museum staff, the thieves managed to escape with their loot. The incident has reignited concerns about the vulnerability of French museums, particularly in light of recent thefts of gold and porcelain from other institutions. Authorities are now racing against time to recover the stolen jewels, which are at risk of being dismantled and sold on the black market. The Louvre, home to thousands of globally renowned artworks, has historically maintained tight security, making this heist all the more alarming. The investigation is ongoing, but the likelihood of recovering the jewels intact remains uncertain.
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How Abu Dhabi drivers can reduce 8 black points, get licences reinstated
Abu Dhabi authorities have introduced a new initiative aimed at assisting drivers in reducing traffic black points and reinstating their driving licences. The programme, which runs from October 20 to November 20, 2025, offers motorists the opportunity to remove up to eight black points from their records, provided they have accumulated fewer than 24 points. Drivers who have exceeded this threshold can reinstate their licences by enrolling in educational courses after paying the requisite fees. The workshops and courses will be held at the Abu Dhabi Police platform located on the first floor of Mushrif Mall Centre, operating daily from 4 pm to 10 pm. Black points are penalties issued for serious traffic violations, with the number of points reflecting the severity of the offence. Accumulating 24 points within a year typically results in licence suspension. This initiative follows a similar programme launched earlier this year during the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX). The move underscores the authorities’ commitment to promoting road safety and encouraging responsible driving behaviour among motorists.
