Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Dh100-million jackpot winner announced: Top 7 biggest lottery victories in the UAE

    Dh100-million jackpot winner announced: Top 7 biggest lottery victories in the UAE

    The UAE is abuzz with excitement following the announcement of its first-ever Dh100-million lottery jackpot winner. The historic event, which took place on Saturday at the UAE Lottery, has left the nation eagerly awaiting the winner’s identity. While the newest multi-millionaire remains anonymous, this monumental win has reignited interest in the country’s long history of life-changing lottery victories.

    Over the years, the UAE has witnessed numerous tales of fortune and serendipity. Among the most notable is Junaid Rana, a former Pakistani driver earning less than Dh6,000 a month, who won Dh50 million in a Mahzooz live draw in October 2021. His life transformed overnight, and he now resides in Dubai with his growing family.

    In January 2025, Manu Mohanan, an Indian nurse based in Bahrain, clinched a Dh30-million Big Ticket raffle. Mohanan, who had been purchasing tickets for over five years, shared the prize with 16 friends. Similarly, Mohammed Naser Balal, a Bangladeshi electrician, won Dh25 million in July 2025 after buying a ticket with a group of friends.

    Other significant wins include Aravind Appukuttan, an Indian salesman from Sharjah, who took home Dh25 million in December 2024, and Tajuddin Aliyar Kunju, a 61-year-old Indian expat, who won the same amount in May 2025. Both winners shared their prizes with friends and pledged portions to charity.

    The Dh20-million Big Ticket jackpot in August 2025 was claimed by Sabuj Miah Amir Hossain Dewan, a Bangladeshi tailor living in Dubai for 18 years. Jahangir Alom, another Bangladeshi, also won Dh20 million in March 2025, attributing his success to divine intervention.

    Smaller yet life-changing wins include Sandeep Kumar Prasad, a 30-year-old technician from Uttar Pradesh, who won Dh15 million in September 2025, and Kathar Hussain, a car wash worker in Sharjah, who won Dh10 million in 2022.

    The UAE Lottery continues to create dreams and transform lives, with each win adding to the nation’s rich tapestry of luck and fortune.

  • Louvre Museum closes after theft

    Louvre Museum closes after theft

    In a shocking incident on Sunday, the Louvre Museum in Paris fell victim to a meticulously planned robbery, prompting its immediate closure. French Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed the theft on social media platform X, stating that the crime occurred during the museum’s opening hours. Authorities are currently investigating the heist, with no reports of injuries. According to French daily Le Parisien, the perpetrators entered the museum through its Seine-facing facade, where ongoing construction provided an opportunity for access. Using a freight elevator, they reportedly reached the Apollo Gallery, where they shattered windows and stole nine pieces from the historic jewellery collection of Napoleon and the Empress. The Apollo Gallery is renowned for its display of the French Crown Jewels, making the theft particularly significant. The Louvre, which attracts up to 30,000 visitors daily, has a storied history of thefts, including the infamous 1911 disappearance of the Mona Lisa. This latest incident underscores ongoing security challenges faced by the museum, which houses over 33,000 priceless works of art spanning ancient civilizations to European masterpieces.

  • Louvre museum in Paris closed after robbery, French culture minister says

    Louvre museum in Paris closed after robbery, French culture minister says

    The iconic Louvre Museum in Paris has been temporarily closed following a brazen robbery that occurred on Sunday morning, as confirmed by France’s Culture Minister, Rachida Dati. The incident took place during the museum’s opening hours, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement. Dati, who was present at the scene, shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), though specific details about the stolen items remain undisclosed. Reports from various French media outlets suggest that valuable jewellery was among the items taken. The Louvre, renowned as the world’s most visited museum, is home to countless priceless artworks and historical treasures. In a brief statement, the museum announced its closure ‘for exceptional reasons,’ without elaborating further. Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the theft. This developing story is expected to be updated with more information shortly. For real-time updates, the public is encouraged to follow @BBCBreaking on X or use the BBC News App.

  • Final interment for Kenya’s former prime minister Odinga underway

    Final interment for Kenya’s former prime minister Odinga underway

    The funeral of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a towering figure in African democracy, is taking place in his rural home under tight security. The ceremony follows violent incidents in Nairobi during earlier public viewings, which resulted in fatalities and injuries. Odinga, who passed away in India at the age of 80, is being laid to rest with full military honors alongside traditional rites, next to his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, a key figure in Kenya’s independence struggle and the nation’s first vice president. Thousands of mourners and dignitaries from across Africa have gathered to pay their respects to the man hailed as a “selfless pan-Africanist.” Despite never achieving the presidency in his five attempts, Odinga played a pivotal role in Kenya’s political landscape, brokering agreements with three presidents during periods of post-election tension. President William Ruto acknowledged Odinga’s contributions, particularly his role in stabilizing the country after a political pact earlier this year. Odinga’s legacy extends beyond Kenya, as he mediated political crises across Africa and championed democratic reforms. His influence was celebrated by global leaders, who praised his statesmanship and dedication to democracy. Odinga is survived by his wife Ida and their children Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie.

  • Pope gives Venezuela reason to celebrate by canonizing its beloved ‘doctor of the poor’ as 1st saint

    Pope gives Venezuela reason to celebrate by canonizing its beloved ‘doctor of the poor’ as 1st saint

    In a historic moment for Venezuela, Pope Leo XIV will canonize José Gregorio Hernández, the nation’s revered ‘doctor of the poor,’ on Sunday. This marks Venezuela’s first saint and brings a rare moment of celebration to a country grappling with a prolonged economic crisis and escalating tensions with the United States. The canonization ceremony, held in St. Peter’s Square, will also honor Mother Carmen Rendiles Martínez, founder of a Venezuelan religious order, and Papua New Guinea’s first saint, Peter To Rot, among others. Thousands of Venezuelans are expected to attend in Rome, while many more will gather in Caracas to watch the livestreamed event. The Vatican highlighted that Pope Francis approved Hernández’s sainthood from his hospital room, bypassing the traditional miracle confirmation process due to the widespread veneration of the ‘doctor-saint.’ Hernández, a 19th-century physician, became a national icon for his selfless care of the poor, often refusing payment and even providing funds for medicine. His tragic death in 1919 while delivering medicine to an elderly woman cemented his legacy. The canonization comes at a critical time for Venezuela, following recent geopolitical tensions and the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to opposition leader María Corina Machado. Despite the challenges, this event symbolizes hope and unity for the Venezuelan people. Other individuals being canonized include Archbishop Ignazio Choukrallah Maloyan, Sister Vincenza Maria Poloni, Maria Troncatti, and Bartolo Longo, each recognized for their profound impact on faith and society.

  • Aerial circus in Brazil spotlights a path to healing for female victims of gender-based violence

    Aerial circus in Brazil spotlights a path to healing for female victims of gender-based violence

    In a powerful display of art and activism, performers in Niteroi, Brazil, took to the skies above a bustling beach to address the pervasive issue of violence against women. The aerial circus show, titled ‘Alone we are petals, together we are roses,’ debuted on Saturday with Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain as its backdrop. The performance, featuring six women and two men, began with a woman in a pink bodysuit strutting confidently on stilts, only to be knocked down by male artists. However, the narrative shifted as she reclaimed her strength through physical exploration and solidarity with other women, culminating in her triumphant return on even higher stilts. Rosa Caitanya Hamilton Azevedo, a 31-year-old artist and survivor of gender-based violence, played the lead role, emphasizing the resilience and empowerment that emerge from such struggles. Juliana Berti Abduch, the creator of the Suspended Circus Acrobatics project, initiated this endeavor in 2020 to combat domestic violence. The latest performance, while not a direct continuation of their 2023 show, continues to spotlight the multifaceted nature of violence against women. Berti Abduch noted that participation in the project offers healing for survivors, helping them overcome trauma and regain confidence. The performance drew approximately 100 spectators, many of whom were captivated by the striking visuals of aerial hoops, trapezes, and silks. Audience member Fabiane Curione de Medeiros described the show as impactful, stressing the importance of unity in exposing and combating violence. Alarming statistics, including the fact that a woman is raped every six minutes in Brazil, were broadcast during the performance, underscoring the urgency of the issue. Despite the heavy subject matter, the artists aimed to inspire hope and empowerment through their art, envisioning a future where women’s rights are upheld and violence is eradicated.

  • Same budget, less gold: How record prices affect Dubai residents this Diwali

    Same budget, less gold: How record prices affect Dubai residents this Diwali

    As Diwali celebrations commence, Dubai residents are navigating the challenges of soaring gold prices, which have significantly impacted their festive shopping traditions. The Gold Souk in Deira witnessed bustling activity on Dhanteras, a day considered auspicious for purchasing gold and silver. Despite the high prices, long queues formed outside jewelry stores as residents sought to uphold their annual ritual of buying gold during the festival of lights. However, this year, many found themselves purchasing lighter pieces or opting for designs that incorporate other metals or stones to stay within their budgets. Gold prices recently crossed Dh500 per gram, a record high that has forced shoppers to rethink their purchases. Priya Nair, a resident of Al Qusais, shared her experience of buying a small bangle for her daughter, noting that the weight of the gold she could afford was significantly less than in previous years. Similarly, Shalini Kumar from Mankhool emphasized the importance of balancing investment and aesthetics, choosing designs that offer both value and visual appeal. For many families, buying gold during Diwali is not just a tradition but also a form of investment. Jewelry stores have adapted to these changing trends by showcasing lightweight and budget-friendly designs. Priya Jayesh Gupta, a businesswoman from JLT, revealed that she had reduced the number of gold gifts this year due to the price surge. Despite the financial constraints, the cultural significance of buying gold during Diwali remains strong, with many residents viewing it as a way to usher in prosperity and good fortune for the new year.

  • UAE: Nearly 2,000 homes across 4 key Dubai areas to be delivered by 2028

    UAE: Nearly 2,000 homes across 4 key Dubai areas to be delivered by 2028

    Dubai is set to witness a significant transformation in its housing landscape with the delivery of nearly 2,000 homes across four key areas by 2028. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) has announced four major housing projects — Wadi Al Amardi, Al Awir, Hatta, and Al Yalayis 5 — which will collectively provide 1,749 homes valued at over Dh3.3 billion. These projects are part of a broader housing programme approved in January 2025 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aimed at enhancing housing stability and improving citizens’ quality of life. The comprehensive programme encompasses 3,004 homes with a total value of Dh5.4 billion, reflecting the leadership’s vision to create integrated residential communities that offer comfort, safety, and well-being. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Acting CEO of MBRHE, emphasized the establishment’s commitment to fulfilling the leadership’s directives by prioritizing the completion of these projects. He highlighted that the developments align with Dubai’s broader social and economic goals, aiming to make the city the best place to live in the world. Each project has been meticulously designed to meet the needs of Emirati families, with modern architectural designs, advanced infrastructure, and community facilities. The Wadi Al Amardi project, set for completion in the first quarter of 2026, includes 432 homes spanning 3.669 million square feet with an investment of Dh767 million. The Al Awir project, also scheduled for completion in early 2026, comprises 398 homes covering 3.217 million square feet at a cost of Dh734 million. The Hatta project, a distinctive initiative supporting the area’s transformation into a vibrant urban and tourism destination, features 213 homes across 2.654 million square feet with an investment of Dh508 million and is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026. The largest of the four, the Al Yalayis 5 project, will deliver 706 homes across approximately 7 million square feet with a total cost of Dh1.31 billion, setting a benchmark for sustainable, fully serviced residential communities. These projects underscore the Government of Dubai’s commitment to providing a modern and sustainable housing environment that ensures stable and dignified lives for its citizens.

  • Spanish town bans black cat adoptions during Halloween

    Spanish town bans black cat adoptions during Halloween

    In a move to safeguard black cats from potential harm during Halloween, the Spanish town of Terrassa in Catalonia has implemented a temporary ban on their adoption from local animal shelters. The prohibition, effective from October 6 to November 10, aims to prevent the animals from being exploited in sinister rituals or used as props during the holiday season. Deputy Mayor Noel Duque highlighted that adoption requests for black cats typically surge around Halloween, a time when they are often associated with witchcraft and bad luck in Western culture. However, in other cultures, such as Japan and Egypt, black cats are revered as symbols of prosperity and fortune. Terrassa’s city council clarified that while there have been no reported cases of cruelty towards black cats in the town, incidents in other regions prompted the decision, following warnings from animal welfare organizations. The council emphasized that the measure is temporary and exceptional, designed to protect the animals from impulsive or trend-driven adoptions. Terrassa is home to over 9,800 cats, with approximately 100 housed in the town’s adoption center, including 12 black cats. Exceptions during the ban period will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and normal adoption processes will resume post-Halloween.

  • Why I fell in love with a book called I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki

    Why I fell in love with a book called I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki

    For South Koreans, tteokbokki is more than just a snack; it’s a symbol of comfort and resilience. This beloved dish, made with chewy rice cakes and a sweet-spicy sauce, is a staple of Korea’s street food culture, cherished by people of all ages. It’s the go-to meal after a long day, offering solace and warmth. In 2018, a book titled *I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki* captured the hearts of many with its honest and relatable exploration of mental health. Its author, Baek Se-hee, passed away at the age of 35, leaving behind a legacy of courage and compassion. Her death has sparked an outpouring of grief and gratitude from readers worldwide who found solace in her words. The book, a record of Baek’s conversations with her psychiatrist, delves into her struggles with dysthymia and anxiety. It resonates deeply with those navigating similar challenges, offering a message of self-acceptance and hope. Baek’s candid storytelling has not only destigmatized mental health issues in South Korea but also inspired a global conversation. Her memoir has sold over a million copies worldwide, translated into 25 languages, and continues to touch lives. Baek’s life and work remind us that even in moments of despair, small joys like tteokbokki can be a source of strength. Her legacy lives on, encouraging readers to embrace their imperfections and find comfort in the simple pleasures of life.