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  • Look: Rare, throwback photos of Benazir Bhutto, Dubai Ruler shows strong UAE-Pakistan ties

    Look: Rare, throwback photos of Benazir Bhutto, Dubai Ruler shows strong UAE-Pakistan ties

    A collection of rare archival photographs has surfaced, offering a visual testament to the enduring diplomatic relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan. The images, shared by Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari, daughter of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, reveal intimate moments between the nations’ leadership across generations.

    The photographs capture Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, engaging with the Bhutto family during their childhood years. One particularly poignant image shows Sheikh Mohammed attentively listening to Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, now Pakistan’s First Lady, and her siblings during a meeting with their mother Benazir Bhutto. Remarkably, the Dubai Ruler’s demeanor exhibits the same ‘kindness, love and humility’ that characterizes his contemporary interactions, according to Bakhtawar’s commentary.

    This visual history traces back to the 1970s when the UAE’s Founding Father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan established brotherly ties with Pakistan’s former president Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. These foundational relationships have created an enduring partnership that has weathered regional challenges and geopolitical shifts.

    The historical connection extends beyond political leadership. Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, appears in the photographs, representing the continuity of diplomatic engagement since the Emirates’ formation.

    The relationship is further symbolized by recent interactions where Sheikh Mohammed referred to Aseefa Bhutto Zardari as a ‘daughter of Dubai,’ during Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari’s official visit to the UAE last week. The current generation of leaders, including Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, continue to strengthen these cross-generational bonds.

    The nations’ interconnected history is both deep and practical. Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize the UAE’s formation, and over 1.7 million Pakistanis now reside in the Emirates. The relationship includes significant infrastructure contributions, most notably Pakistan International Airlines’ instrumental role in launching Emirates airline in 1985. The inaugural flights from Dubai to Karachi and Mumbai utilized aircraft wet-leased from PIA, with Pakistani pilot Fazle Ghani Mian not only commanding the flights but also training the first generation of UAE national pilots.

  • Pope gets invitation to visit Peru during a Vatican garden party, then stays for lunch

    Pope gets invitation to visit Peru during a Vatican garden party, then stays for lunch

    VATICAN CITY — The diplomatic landscape at the Holy See witnessed a significant development as Peru’s ambassador to the Vatican extended an official invitation to Pope Leo XIV for a pastoral visit to his second homeland. The invitation came during a ceremonial event in the Vatican gardens on Saturday, where a new mosaic and statue dedicated to the Virgin Mary, sponsored by Peru, was inaugurated.

    Ambassador Jorge Ponce San Roman, addressing the pontiff before Peru’s entire episcopal conference, expressed the fervent hope of the Peruvian people to welcome His Holiness in the near future. While Pope Leo did not provide a direct response to the invitation, he emotionally characterized Peru as “such a beloved country to me,” acknowledging his two-decade missionary service there and his Peruvian citizenship.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of an increasingly busy 2026 travel schedule for the pontiff. Multiple sources have confirmed that Vatican officials are coordinating a substantial four-nation African journey, with planned stops in Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Cameroon, and Algeria. Although specific dates remain unannounced, diplomatic channels indicate the expedition will likely commence after Easter celebrations.

    The African itinerary carries particular theological significance, especially the potential visit to Algeria, which holds profound importance for Pope Leo’s Augustinian religious order and represents a crucial nexus in Christian-Muslim dialogue that the Vatican seeks to emphasize.

    Concurrently, South American nations are anticipating papal visits, with Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru under consideration for either 2026 or 2027. Argentina has been particularly awaiting a papal visit since Pope Francis, Leo’s predecessor, did not return to his native country following his 2013 election.

    The Saturday ceremony concluded with an unusual breach of diplomatic protocol as Pope Leo remained for an extended buffet lunch hosted by the Peruvian Embassy. For approximately an hour, the pontiff engaged in cordial discussions with Ambassador Ponce and Peruvian bishops in a shaded area of the gardens, while caterers prepared traditional Peruvian delicacies including pisco sour cocktails and ravioli with huancaina sauce. Despite intermittent rainfall, the gathering maintained a joyful and relaxed atmosphere, underscoring the pontiff’s evident comfort among his Peruvian compatriots.

  • Gold, silver prices plunge in Dubai; investors sell in panic

    Gold, silver prices plunge in Dubai; investors sell in panic

    Dubai’s gold market experienced unprecedented volatility on Saturday, January 31st, 2026, as prices collapsed dramatically from recent record highs, triggering widespread panic selling among investors. The precious metal plummeted to Dh589.5 per gram for 24K gold, representing a staggering decline of Dh76.5 from Thursday’s peak of Dh666 per gram.

    The sharp correction followed global trends where spot gold prices retreated from over $5,500 per ounce to $4,893.2, marking a significant pullback after weeks of sustained gains. Market analysts attributed the sudden downturn to profit-taking activities and a strengthened US dollar following the appointment of a new Federal Reserve Chair.

    All gold variants witnessed substantial declines, with 22K, 21K, 18K and 14K trading at Dh545.75, Dh523.25, Dh448.5 and Dh349.75 per gram respectively. The sell-off extended beyond gold, with silver experiencing an even more dramatic collapse of 34 percent, equivalent to $40 per ounce.

    The Dubai Gold Market saw extraordinary scenes as long queues formed of investors seeking to liquidate their holdings amid the precipitous price drops. This panic selling reflected market nervousness following the abrupt reversal of the sustained bull run in precious metals.

    Market experts offered contrasting perspectives on the developments. Aaron Hill, Chief Market Analyst at FP Markets, suggested this remains a buyer’s market where price dips would likely continue to attract investment, particularly if gold retests the $5,000 psychological barrier.

    Conversely, Alex Kuptsikevich, Chief Market Analyst at FxPro, interpreted the dramatic events as signaling a market peak. He noted that Thursday and Friday’s cumulative 10 percent decline from peak levels, while keeping prices near the week’s opening levels, represented a synchronous sell-off across all metals that typically follows moments of market extreme.

    The volatility underscores the fragile nature of commodity markets and demonstrates how quickly sentiment can shift even amid strong fundamental trends, leaving investors reassessing their positions in precious metals.

  • ‘One big family’: Sheikh Mohammed praises community initiative for young entrepreneurs

    ‘One big family’: Sheikh Mohammed praises community initiative for young entrepreneurs

    Dubai’s vibrant community spirit and entrepreneurial ethos were celebrated through a special youth initiative that garnered high praise from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The heartwarming event, organized by the Lootah family, transformed a Muhaisnah neighborhood into a bustling marketplace exclusively operated by young entrepreneurs, many appearing under 15 years of age.

    The engaging community market featured children managing their own stalls with remarkable professionalism, offering diverse products ranging from handmade crafts and clothing to creatively packaged snacks and beverages. One ambitious young girl operated a fully-stocked stationery booth with artistic supplies, while another confidently served customers from her lemonade stand. Seasonal offerings included carefully prepared hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and marshmallows, alongside freshly baked cookies and confectioneries.

    Beyond commercial activities, the event fostered meaningful social connections as families strolled through the vibrant space, sampling products and encouraging the young vendors. The atmosphere was further enhanced by a display of classic and vintage cars that attracted admiration from both children and adults, creating a festive family-oriented environment.

    Sheikh Mohammed, sharing video footage of the event through his official channels, commended the initiative as exemplary in promoting interpersonal connections and neighborhood cohesion. He specifically called upon Dubai Municipality, the Department of Economy and Tourism, and Dubai Fargan to replicate such community-driven programs across the emirate, emphasizing their dual benefit in nurturing early entrepreneurial skills while strengthening family and community bonds. The ruler’s concluding statement, ‘We are one big family in Dubai,’ encapsulated the event’s overarching theme of unity and collective growth.

  • Musk’s SpaceX applies to launch 1m satellites into orbit

    Musk’s SpaceX applies to launch 1m satellites into orbit

    SpaceX, under the leadership of Elon Musk, has submitted a groundbreaking proposal to deploy one million satellites into Earth’s orbit, creating an unprecedented network of orbital data centers specifically designed to power artificial intelligence systems. The revolutionary application, filed with the Federal Communications Commission on Friday, presents this ambitious infrastructure as the most economically viable and energy-efficient solution to meet the exponentially growing computational demands of AI technology.

    The aerospace company contends that traditional terrestrial data facilities, typically housed in massive warehouse complexes, are increasingly inadequate to handle the computational requirements of expanding AI applications. According to SpaceX’s documentation, these orbital data centers would operate as a distributed network of solar-powered satellites positioned in low-Earth orbit at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2,000 kilometers.

    This proposal represents a dramatic expansion beyond SpaceX’s existing Starlink constellation of approximately 10,000 satellites, which has already drawn criticism from astronomers and space traffic experts. The company maintains that the new system would provide essential computing capacity to serve billions of users worldwide while advancing humanity toward what Musk describes as ‘a Kardashev Type II civilization’—a theoretical societal classification that denotes the ability to harness a star’s complete energy output.

    Addressing potential concerns about space congestion, Musk stated on his social media platform X that ‘the satellites will actually be so far apart that it will be hard to see from one to another,’ emphasizing the vastness of space. SpaceX further argues that orbital data centers offer environmental advantages over traditional ground-based facilities by eliminating the enormous water and power requirements for cooling.

    However, space technology experts have raised multiple concerns regarding the feasibility and safety of such an extensive orbital network. Previous analyses indicate that launching and maintaining hardware in space remains prohibitively expensive, with complex infrastructure requirements for protection, cooling, and power management. Additionally, the increasing volume of space debris presents significant collision risks that could potentially damage equipment or cause materials to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere.

    Astronomers have previously reported interference from SpaceX’s existing satellite network, noting in 2024 that radio emissions from Starlink satellites were effectively ‘blinding’ their telescopes and impeding scientific research. Despite these concerns, Musk has consistently rejected allegations that his satellites are overcrowding space or creating unfair competition in the orbital environment.

  • Emergency Management Minister Wang Xiangxi under investigation

    Emergency Management Minister Wang Xiangxi under investigation

    China’s top anti-graft authorities have launched a formal investigation into Wang Xiangxi, the sitting Minister of Emergency Management, for suspected serious violations of disciplinary and legal standards. The probe is being conducted jointly by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and the National Supervisory Commission, the country’s highest anti-corruption bodies.

    Wang, 61, has held his ministerial position since September 2022 after being appointed Party Secretary of the ministry in July of the same year. His career spans decades in both the coal industry and government service. A native of Xiantao in Hubei province, Wang began his professional journey after graduating from the Jiaozuo Mining Institute in Henan province, rising through the ranks of the coal sector before transitioning to government leadership roles.

    Prior to his emergency management appointment, Wang served as a member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Hubei Provincial Committee and Secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Commission in 2017. The investigation comes as part of President Xi Jinping’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign that has targeted officials at all levels of government and state-owned enterprises.

    The Ministry of Emergency Management, established in 2018, holds crucial responsibilities including disaster response, industrial safety oversight, and earthquake administration. Wang’s investigation marks one of the highest-profile corruption cases involving a sitting cabinet minister in recent years, reflecting the continued intensity of China’s anti-graft efforts.

  • Connection by the sea: A Valentine’s escape at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah

    Connection by the sea: A Valentine’s escape at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah

    Ras Al Khaimah’s shoreline sets the stage for an intimate Valentine’s celebration as Rixos Al Mairid resort announces specially curated romantic experiences available from February 13th to 15th, 2026. The luxury destination offers couples an opportunity to escape routine and reconnect through premium accommodations and bespoke dining experiences amidst stunning beachfront surroundings.

    The resort’s most exclusive offering, the Two-Bedroom Premium Villa with Private Pool and beach access, provides complete seclusion just steps from the water’s edge. Priced from AED 7,800, this ultimate romantic package includes customized villa decorations, a chilled bottle of premium champagne, and an Instagram-worthy floating breakfast served in the privacy of one’s pool. The villa experience combines homely comfort with five-star service, creating a personal seaside sanctuary.

    For those preferring traditional accommodations, the resort offers Valentine’s room packages starting from AED 1,780, featuring intimate decorations and inclusive access to all resort facilities. Both villa and room guests can enhance their experience with two distinctive dining options.

    The Destination Dinner on the Beach presents a cinematic private dining experience with tables set directly on the sand, soft lighting, customized menus, and the natural symphony of waves. Starting at AED 3,000 per couple, this includes specialty beverages. Alternatively, SOL Seafood Grill & Bar provides an elegant restaurant setting with refined seafood cuisine and sunset views, with packages beginning at AED 2,000 per couple including beverages.

    Beyond accommodations and dining, the resort offers complementary experiences including spa treatments, beach walks, and live entertainment, creating a comprehensive romantic getaway. The extended date range from February 13th to 15th allows couples to customize their celebration as either a focused romantic evening or an extended weekend escape.

    Reservations and detailed information are available through direct contact with the resort via email at reservations.rixosmairid@accor.com or telephone at +971 7 228 8844.

  • Overseas-Chinese group tours Xinjiang as special guests

    Overseas-Chinese group tours Xinjiang as special guests

    A delegation of five prominent overseas Chinese representatives from four Central Asian nations concluded a significant observation tour of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region as specially invited guests during the region’s annual political advisory session. The delegation, comprising business leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, engaged in comprehensive meetings while touring key development sites including exhibition centers, winter sports facilities, and industrial enterprises across Urumqi and Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture.

    The visit provided first-hand insight into Xinjiang’s rapid economic transformation and infrastructure advancement, particularly highlighting the region’s strategic integration within China’s Belt and Road Initiative framework. MaNate Yibulayin, Deputy Director of the Kyrgyzstan Chinese Assist Center and Chairman of MINT Investment Co, emphasized the tangible benefits observed, noting: ‘Xinjiang’s deepening participation in BRI has generated substantial operational efficiencies for enterprises. The implementation of same-day customs clearance procedures at Kashgar and Tacheng prefecture ports has dramatically accelerated our goods turnover rates.’

    As head of a thriving trade logistics enterprise with expanding operations in Kashgar, Yibulayin attested to Xinjiang’s accelerating economic openness. His company has experienced consistent business volume growth and steadily expanding trade scales throughout the region. The delegation’s presence coincided with the fourth session of the 13th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference of Xinjiang, which convened from Monday through Friday, providing a platform for cross-border dialogue and mutual development planning.

    Yibulayin further committed to enhancing support mechanisms for Chinese enterprises expanding globally, stating: ‘As BRI advancements continue, we will strengthen our consultation services and operational guidance through the China-assistance Center to facilitate successful overseas expansion for Chinese companies.’ The visit underscored growing transnational economic cooperation and reinforced the critical role overseas Chinese communities play in fostering international partnerships through China’s flagship connectivity project.

  • The currency crisis behind Iran’s protest explosion

    The currency crisis behind Iran’s protest explosion

    A catastrophic currency collapse has plunged Iran into its most severe domestic crisis since the 1979 revolution, triggering nationwide protests and drawing international condemnation. In early January 2026, the Iranian rial’s value plummeted so dramatically that major currency tracking systems briefly displayed it as worthless ($0.00), rendering it untradeable on global platforms. This economic freefall sparked initial demonstrations in Tehran’s historic bazaar district that rapidly escalated into countrywide unrest.

    Unlike previous protest movements, this uprising originated within Iran’s merchant class—traditionally government supporters—who framed their rebellion as a “battle for survival” against deteriorating economic conditions. The decentralized protests drew participation from students, labor groups, and minority communities without centralized leadership, making them both pervasive and difficult to suppress.

    Official government estimates acknowledge over 3,000 fatalities, though independent sources suggest the death toll may reach 30,000. On January 23, 2026, the UN Human Rights Council launched an urgent investigation into what it termed a “brutal crackdown” on demonstrators.

    The crisis stems from decades of economic mismanagement exacerbated by comprehensive international sanctions. In 2025, Iran faced perfect storm conditions: energy shortages, Israeli attacks on infrastructure, extreme drought creating “water bankruptcy,” and the restoration of UN sanctions after European powers activated the JCPOA’s trigger mechanism. Executive Order 13902, expanded throughout 2025, systematically targeted Iran’s oil, shipping, and financial networks, while American authorities disrupted billions in “shadow banking” operations across China, Hong Kong, and UAE.

    Despite exporting more oil, Iran’s reliance on intermediaries and steep discounts minimized profits. As hard currency access diminished, the rial lost approximately 50% of its value in eleven months. The government’s attempts to stabilize through money printing created hyperinflation, with food prices soaring past 70% after implementing a three-tier gasoline pricing system.

    The currency collapse mirrors Venezuela’s economic trajectory, where years of sanctions and poor policies led to hyperinflation and eventual dollarization. Similarly, Iran’s managed exchange rate system became largely symbolic as black market rates became the actual benchmark.

    International responses have intensified the crisis. The US announced new sanctions and threatened military action, with President Trump warning on Truth Social: “Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!” Western nations and regional adversaries have allegedly exploited the unrest, with Israel’s Mossad claiming operational presence and reportedly smuggling Starlink terminals to bypass government censorship.

    Iranian authorities accuse external forces—particularly the US, Israel, and exiled opposition group MEK—of orchestrating the unrest. The MEK, removed from the US terrorism list in 2012, has gained renewed Western support with thousands of European lawmakers and US Congress members endorsing its political umbrella organization as a government alternative.

    Despite the scale of protests, Iran’s security apparatus remains entrenched, though the economic costs of suppression are unsustainable long-term. The crisis has forced Tehran to focus inward, potentially limiting its regional proxy activities and nuclear ambitions temporarily. However, the situation remains volatile with potential for further escalation as economic pressures continue to mount.

  • Starmer invites Japan PM to UK after Tokyo talks

    Starmer invites Japan PM to UK after Tokyo talks

    British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer concluded his East Asian diplomatic tour with significant talks in Tokyo, extending a formal invitation to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for a UK visit. The meeting, described by Starmer as reflecting the strongest bilateral relationship in decades, focused on reinforcing shared democratic values and expanding cooperation in defense and trade.

    The discussions at the Prime Minister’s Office addressed growing global instability, with both leaders emphasizing the necessity of responding with strength and clarity. Starmer specifically acknowledged Japan’s steadfast support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts. The dialogue also covered plans to enhance security collaboration, including the trilateral Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with Italy and joint military exercises across the Indo-Pacific region.

    Trade relations formed another critical pillar of the talks, with both nations committing to improve supply chain resilience in strategic sectors like critical minerals. Starmer highlighted the mutual interest in maintaining free and predictable trade frameworks between the world’s sixth and fourth largest economies.

    The timing of the visit carries significant political implications, occurring just days before Japan’s snap elections on February 8. Political analysts note the meeting provides Takaichi’s Liberal Democrat party with valuable diplomatic visibility during the campaign period. The Tokyo stopover follows Starmer’s four-day China visit that yielded tangible outcomes including tariff reductions on whisky, visa-free travel agreements, and £2.2 billion in export deals.

    Regional security concerns formed an undercurrent to the discussions, particularly following Takaichi’s recent comments regarding potential Japanese involvement in China-Taiwan conflicts that drew sharp criticism from Beijing. Both leaders avoided explicit mention of these tensions during their public appearances, instead emphasizing their shared commitment to regional stability through strengthened defense partnerships.

    The successful diplomatic mission marks Britain’s continued reengagement with East Asian powers, balancing economic opportunities with China against security partnerships with regional allies like Japan.