Yemeni model and actress Entisar al-Hammadi has been released after nearly five years in detention on charges of indecent behavior, her lawyer confirmed on Sunday. Hammadi, 25, was arrested in February 2021 in Sanaa while en route to a photo shoot. She was subsequently sentenced to five years in prison on allegations of prostitution, drug use, and fornication—claims her legal team and human rights organizations have vehemently dismissed as fabricated and politically motivated to suppress women’s freedoms. Her lawyer, Khaled al-Kamal, revealed that Hammadi was released on Saturday from the central prison in Sanaa. He also noted that her health had significantly deteriorated during her incarceration, as she suffered from various illnesses. Rights groups have reported that the high-profile model attempted to take her own life in 2021, highlighting the severe psychological toll of her imprisonment. Born to an Ethiopian mother and a Yemeni father, Hammadi had gained prominence as a model, sharing numerous photos online in both traditional Yemeni attire and modern outfits, with and without a headscarf. She had worked as a model for four years and appeared in two Yemeni television series in 2020, amassing thousands of followers on Instagram and Facebook. Human Rights Watch (HRW) described her case as ‘marred with irregularities and abuse,’ condemning the court proceedings as arbitrary and lacking due process. Amnesty International further detailed that Hammadi was subjected to blindfolded interrogations, physical and verbal abuse, racist insults, and forced confessions to crimes she did not commit. HRW’s March 2024 report highlighted that warring factions in Yemen, including the Houthis, the internationally recognized government, and the Southern Transitional Council, have systematically curtailed women’s rights in their respective territories. These oppressive policies have severely restricted women’s mobility, access to work, education, healthcare, and their ability to visit family members, underscoring the broader struggle for gender equality in the region.
分类： society
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Flight delays in US to grow worse, transportation secretary warns
The ongoing US government shutdown, now in its 26th day, is taking a heavy toll on air traffic controllers, who are increasingly seeking second jobs and calling in sick due to unpaid work. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy revealed the escalating crisis on Sunday, highlighting the strain on these essential workers. The situation has led to significant flight delays across the country, with a ground stop issued for much of the California coast due to staffing shortages. Over 3,000 flights were delayed on Sunday alone, exacerbating disruptions caused by weather and other factors. Duffy expressed deep concern, stating that controllers are under immense stress and are exploring alternative income sources, such as driving for Uber, to make ends meet. He emphasized the need for controllers to focus on airspace safety rather than financial worries. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued alerts for multiple airports, including Los Angeles International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and Dallas Fort-Worth, warning of delays due to low staffing. The crisis coincides with critical travel periods, including Game 3 of the World Series in Los Angeles and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. This situation mirrors the 2019 shutdown, which ended after air travel disruptions prompted a resolution. Duffy’s warnings underscore the urgent need for a resolution to prevent further deterioration of air travel safety and efficiency.
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UAE: Sheikh Mohammed calls on all residents to raise flag on November 3
In a call to foster national pride and unity, UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has urged all citizens, residents, and institutions to raise the UAE flag at precisely 11 am on November 3, marking the country’s annual Flag Day. The day symbolizes a renewed commitment to the values of the union, emphasizing a sense of belonging and loyalty to the homeland and its leadership. Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as the Vice-President and Ruler of Dubai, highlighted the importance of this gesture in strengthening national identity. The celebration coincides with the ‘National Month,’ an emirate-wide initiative in Dubai that runs from Flag Day until Eid Al Etihad on December 2, 2025. This year marks the second consecutive observance of the extended celebration. As flags adorn homes, shops, and streets across the UAE, residents are reminded to handle the national symbol with respect. Guidelines include inspecting the flag for damage before raising it and ensuring proper placement when displayed vertically in public spaces, with the red stripe positioned at the top. The initiative underscores the UAE’s ongoing efforts to cultivate patriotism and unity among its diverse population.
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Motorists in Dubai cover 10km in less than 14 minutes, says traffic study
Dubai has emerged as a global leader in traffic efficiency, with motorists covering 10 kilometers in under 14 minutes, according to a recent study. This remarkable achievement places the emirate ahead of major cities like Sydney, Montreal, Berlin, Rome, and Milan in the 2024 TomTom Traffic Index. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) revealed that Dubai’s Travel Time Index (TTI), a measure of congestion, stands at 1.23, outperforming the global average of 1.3. Over the past decade, the TTI has decreased by 4%, reflecting significant improvements in urban traffic flow.
A McKinsey & Company study commissioned by the RTA highlighted Dubai’s long-term investments in smart traffic systems, bridges, and road design as key drivers of this transformation. These efforts have not only enhanced traffic efficiency but also significantly improved safety standards. The fatality rate per 100,000 inhabitants plummeted from 21.9 in 2006 to 1.8 in 2024, marking one of the sharpest declines worldwide.
Beyond traffic and safety, Dubai’s transport initiatives have positively impacted residents’ quality of life. Reduced harmful emissions and the promotion of active mobility through public transport, walking, and cycling have contributed to increased life expectancy. Additionally, shorter commutes and smoother traffic flow have alleviated daily stress, fostering mental well-being.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of the RTA, emphasized the broader societal benefits of these advancements, stating, ‘Every minute saved, every accident prevented, and every tonne of emissions reduced has enhanced people’s quality of life.’ Looking ahead, the RTA plans to introduce innovative projects such as trackless trams, suspended transport systems, and high-frequency buses. The ‘Dubai Walk’ initiative aims to transform the city into a pedestrian-friendly destination, while strategic road projects will further enhance connectivity across the emirate.
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Abu Dhabi: Doctor wins Dh318,690 over unpaid wages, gratuity in labour dispute
In a landmark labor dispute case, the Abu Dhabi Court of Cassation has upheld a ruling in favor of a medical professional against her former employer, a medical center in Abu Dhabi. The court confirmed that the employee is entitled to a net payment of Dh168,690 after offsetting amounts owed to the employer. The case, which began with the employee filing for unpaid wages, vacation allowance, and end-of-service gratuity, has seen multiple legal proceedings since its inception. The employee, who joined the medical center on a fixed-term contract in October 2022, resigned in December 2024, citing breach of contract by the employer. The medical center filed a counterclaim seeking Dh150,000 as notice allowance and Dh300,000 for alleged damages caused by the employee’s professional shortcomings. The Court of First Instance initially ruled in favor of the employee, ordering the medical center to pay Dh392,708. However, the Court of Appeal later amended this ruling, reducing the amount to Dh318,690 while upholding the counterclaim. The Court of Cassation dismissed the employee’s final appeal, stating that the appellate court had correctly applied the law and assessed the evidence. This ruling brings the protracted legal battle to a close, setting a precedent for labor disputes in the UAE.
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Dubai: How NRIs can draft will for property, assets in India; documents explained
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) residing in Dubai have multiple legal avenues to draft and register wills for their properties and assets in India. The process is governed by the UAE Personal Status Law for Non-Muslims, the Dubai Wills Law, and the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry Rules (DIFC WPR Rules). These laws allow non-Muslim residents to apply the legal framework of their home country for matters such as inheritance, wills, and property distribution. According to Article 1(1) of Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022, non-Muslims can opt to follow their home country’s laws for these purposes. Article 11(1) of the UAE Personal Status Law further permits individuals to draft wills that allocate their assets as they see fit, provided they comply with the Implementing Regulations of the Decree Law. Additionally, the Dubai Wills Law (Law No. 15 of 2017) establishes a ‘Register of Wills of non-Muslims’ at both Dubai Courts and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts. This register facilitates the formal registration of wills, ensuring legal validity. The DIFC WPR Rules also allow wills to include both movable and immovable assets located anywhere in the world, as per Article 11. NRIs can register their wills at Dubai Courts, the DIFC, or the Indian Consulate in Dubai. For registration at the Indian Consulate, individuals must provide two original drafts of the will, their passport and UAE visa copies, a photograph, and the presence of two Indian witnesses residing in the UAE. Witnesses must also provide their passport and UAE visa copies, along with proof of residence. Legal counsel is recommended to ensure compliance with Indian inheritance laws and to assist with the registration process. Ashish Mehta, founder of Ashish Mehta & Associates, emphasizes the importance of professional legal guidance in this process.
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Dubai teen cremated after cardiac arrest on Diwali; tributes pour in
The tragic passing of Vaishnav Krishnakumar, an 18-year-old Dubai resident, has left his family, friends, and community in mourning. Vaishnav, a first-year student at Middlesex University and a former pupil of GEMS Our Own Indian School, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during a Diwali celebration on Tuesday. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he could not be saved. His final rites were conducted on Saturday afternoon in his hometown of Alappuzha, Kerala, surrounded by grieving family members. The family had arrived in Kerala earlier that morning after a heart-wrenching journey from Dubai. On Friday evening, hundreds of parents, teachers, and friends gathered at an embalming center in Al Muhaisnah to pay their respects. Attendees described the atmosphere as overwhelmingly emotional, with many sharing heartfelt memories of Vaishnav’s positive influence on their lives. Social media has been flooded with tributes, with friends and acquaintances recalling his kindness, leadership, and ability to inspire others. His school and university also posted touching messages, with the school postponing several events in his honor. Vaishnav is survived by his mother, Vidhu, a STEAM teacher at GEMS Our Own Indian School, and his eight-year-old sister.
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Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration honored in Fujian
The first Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration was celebrated on Saturday at the Taiwan Guild Hall in Fuzhou, Fujian Province. The event brought together approximately 60 attendees, including Taiwanese businesspeople, educators, and students living in Fuzhou. The commemoration featured a historical photo exhibition highlighting the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Additionally, clips from the acclaimed drama *Silent Glory*, which chronicles the life of Wu Shi, a Communist Party of China underground operative in Taiwan, were screened. Participants also visited Wu Shi’s former residence in Luozhou town to honor his enduring legacy. This event underscores the historical and cultural ties between Fujian and Taiwan, emphasizing shared heritage and mutual respect.
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A timeline of the jewel heist at the Louvre in Paris
Paris prosecutors have announced the first arrests in connection with the high-profile theft of crown jewels from the Louvre Museum, a week after the daring heist at the world-renowned institution. The suspects were apprehended on Saturday evening, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation. The timeline of events reveals a meticulously planned operation. On October 10, thieves used a false pretext to steal a basket lift, employing threats but no violence. The company owning the truck filed a complaint in Louvres, a town north of Paris. On October 19, the thieves, disguised as renovation workers, parked the truck equipped with a freight lift near the Louvre. They used traffic cones to simulate maintenance and gained entry through a window. At 9:34 a.m., they entered the Apollo Gallery, triggering an alarm. Security officers evacuated visitors, and the museum manager alerted the police. The thieves used disc cutters to break into display cases and stole the jewels. They fled on scooters, leaving behind equipment. Later that day, the imperial crown of Empress Eugénie was found outside the museum, but eight other invaluable objects remained missing. On October 22, the museum reopened, with 100 investigators and forensics experts analyzing evidence. On October 26, arrests were made, with one suspect preparing to leave the country. The investigation continues, with no confirmation on whether any jewels have been recovered.
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Camping in Dubai this winter? Best spots, dos and don’ts; all you need to know
As the winter season approaches, Dubai transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a perfect escape from the scorching summer heat. With temperatures becoming more pleasant, residents and tourists alike can indulge in a variety of activities, including camping in the desert. From October to April, Dubai’s camping season is in full swing, providing ample opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect camping trip in Dubai.
**Top Camping Spots in Dubai**
1. **Al Qudra Lakes**: Just a short drive from the city, Al Qudra Lakes offers a serene escape with its artificial lakes and abundant wildlife. Early mornings are ideal for spotting desert foxes and flamingos. Nearby, the Love Lake, with its heart-shaped design, is a must-visit.
2. **Hatta**: Located about 90 minutes from Dubai, Hatta is a mountainous retreat with designated camping sites equipped with BBQ pits, restrooms, and parking. Adventure seekers can enjoy biking, kayaking, and glamping in this scenic area.
3. **Lahbab Desert**: Known for its iconic Pink Rock and Big Red sand dune, Lahbab Desert is a hotspot for thrill-seekers. Activities like quad biking and sandboarding make it a popular choice for camping enthusiasts.
4. **Al Aweer**: Managed by Dubai Municipality, Al Aweer offers secure and well-equipped camping plots for families and individuals. Permits are required and can be obtained via the Dubai Municipality website or the Dubai Now app.
5. **Jebel Ali Beach**: For those who prefer a beachside camping experience, Jebel Ali Beach is the ideal spot. A no-objection certificate from the Dubai Municipality is required to park caravans here.
**Planning Your Trip**
Decide whether to DIY or opt for guided tours offered by desert tour operators. If driving into the desert, ensure your vehicle is suitable for off-roading. Pack essentials like tents, sleeping bags, water, food, and first-aid kits. Layer up for the cold desert nights and always check the weather forecast.
**Dos and Don’ts**
– Set up your tent before dark and choose a safe, elevated spot.
– Keep your tent away from cooking areas and secure it against strong winds.
– Dispose of trash properly and avoid leaving food or burning coal unattended.
– Always inform someone of your whereabouts and check site-specific rules and booking requirements.With these tips, you’re all set to enjoy a memorable camping experience in Dubai’s stunning winter landscape.