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  • UAE team hoists portraits of founding leaders, flag on French Alps braving -3ºC weather

    UAE team hoists portraits of founding leaders, flag on French Alps braving -3ºC weather

    In an extraordinary display of national pride, a team of elite Emirati skiers has successfully scaled a formidable peak in the French Alps to plant the UAE flag and portraits of the nation’s founding fathers. The expedition, part of the long-running ‘Our Flag at the Summit’ initiative, saw ten highly-trained athletes from the UAE Skiers Academy conquer the 3,300-meter Valtrans resort summit under harsh winter conditions, with temperatures plunging to -9 degrees Celsius.

    The team’s journey commenced in Dubai, progressing through Geneva before their final ascent in the Alps. This meticulously planned mission involved intensive preparatory training to navigate the challenging alpine terrain and extreme weather. Upon reaching the summit, the team unfurled a substantial 3×1-meter portrait featuring the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum alongside the national flag, creating a striking visual against the snowy backdrop.

    The emotional peak of the expedition was marked by the team singing the UAE national anthem, a moment described as charged with pride and sentiment. The inclusion of a father and his sons in the team composition was a deliberate nod to the UAE’s designated ‘Year of the Family’ in 2026, adding a layer of familial significance to the national achievement.

    Established fourteen years ago by the UAE Skiers Academy, the ‘Our Flag at the Summit’ program aims to cultivate patriotism and ambition among Emirati youth by planting the national standard on iconic global summits. This Alpine venture distinguishes itself as the first such expedition to be conducted in partnership with a government entity, signaling elevated institutional support for the initiative. Previous expeditions under this program have seen the UAE flag raised on some of the world’s most prestigious mountains, inspiring numerous young citizens to engage in sporting and humanitarian endeavors that reflect core national values.

  • Cambodia launches 4-month visa-free trial for Chinese tourists

    Cambodia launches 4-month visa-free trial for Chinese tourists

    In a significant move to boost tourism recovery, Cambodia has unveiled a landmark visa exemption pilot program exclusively for Chinese nationals. The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism announced on December 3 that Chinese tourists will enjoy visa-free entry from June 15 to October 15 next year.

    Under the newly approved initiative, Chinese travelers arriving directly from China can stay in Cambodia for up to 14 days without requiring pre-arrival visa applications or paying associated fees. The program permits multiple entries throughout the four-month trial period, though travelers must complete electronic arrival documentation upon entry.

    The strategic decision reflects Cambodia’s commitment to revitalizing its tourism sector, which saw approximately 4.8 million international visitors in the first ten months of 2025. Chinese tourists constituted about one million of these arrivals, signaling strong recovery momentum despite not yet reaching pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, Cambodia welcomed 2.3 million Chinese visitors, representing nearly one-third of all international tourist arrivals.

    Tourism Minister Huot Hak emphasized the broader economic implications, noting on November 27 that increasing Chinese tourism not only stimulates the hospitality industry but also generates cross-sector investment opportunities. The current visa options for Chinese visitors—including visa-on-arrival, e-visa, and embassy-issued visas—will remain available alongside this new exemption program.

    This targeted approach demonstrates Cambodia’s recognition of China’s critical role in its tourism economy and aligns with regional trends of facilitating easier travel for high-volume tourist markets.

  • Bright future tipped for Sino-Thai green growth

    Bright future tipped for Sino-Thai green growth

    Thailand’s financial sector anticipates significant collaborative opportunities in sustainable development with China, particularly under Beijing’s forthcoming Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). Pipit Aneaknithi, Chairman of Global Sustainability at Kasikornbank, Thailand’s leading financial institution, emphasized that China’s sustained commitment to environmentally conscious growth creates fertile ground for bilateral cooperation.

    In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Pipit highlighted Thailand’s strategic positioning to leverage Chinese technological leadership in artificial intelligence and digital industries. This alignment, he noted, would facilitate mutually beneficial outcomes while advancing green economic transformation across both nations.

    The banking executive articulated that synergistic partnerships would enable Thailand to capitalize on China’s advanced capabilities in renewable energy, electric vehicle manufacturing, and smart infrastructure development. Such collaboration aligns with Thailand’s own Bio-Circular-Green economic model, creating complementary pathways toward carbon neutrality goals.

    Pipit further observed that China’s methodical long-term planning through its five-year cycles provides exceptional predictability for international partners seeking sustainable investment opportunities. This systematic approach to green development, combined with China’s technological advancements, positions the country as an ideal partner for Southeast Asian nations pursuing ecological modernization.

    Financial institutions like Kasikornbank are preparing to facilitate cross-border green financing initiatives, sustainable supply chain development, and technology transfer programs that support both countries’ environmental objectives while generating economic growth.

  • BM Digital Marketing Agency broadens services post Dubai Media City relocation

    BM Digital Marketing Agency broadens services post Dubai Media City relocation

    BM Digital Marketing Agency, an officially recognized Google Ads Partner, has significantly broadened its comprehensive service range following its strategic relocation to Dubai Media City. This move positions the agency at the epicenter of the region’s media innovation landscape, enabling enhanced creative and technological capabilities.

    The expansion introduces a specialized Creative Content Creation Studio offering premium video production, professional photography, advanced editing services, and compelling visual storytelling solutions tailored for social media platforms, digital advertising campaigns, and corporate brand communication. According to Digital Marketing Director Bilal Azam, this initiative addresses the growing market demand for content that captures audience attention and builds brand credibility in saturated digital environments.

    Beyond creative services, BM has fortified its performance marketing infrastructure with AI-driven automation tools, predictive audience analytics, and sophisticated lead attribution models. The agency now delivers a complete digital ecosystem encompassing advertising management across major platforms including Google Ads, Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter), complemented by specialized industry-specific lead generation strategies.

    Technical capabilities have been simultaneously enhanced through advanced GA4 and GTM configurations, server-side tracking implementation, and comprehensive website development services covering WordPress, Shopify, and custom landing page optimization. The agency’s branding division also offers complete visual identity systems including logo design and brand guideline development.

    This strategic expansion responds to increasing demand from both UAE-based businesses and international companies entering the GCC market, positioning BM as a holistic digital growth partner focused on delivering measurable results and sustainable online visibility.

  • What latest Ukraine talks reveal about Putin’s state of mind

    What latest Ukraine talks reveal about Putin’s state of mind

    Recent diplomatic engagements concerning Ukraine have revealed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s unwavering position on continuing military operations despite growing economic challenges. During five hours of negotiations in Moscow involving U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump’s adviser Jared Kushner, Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov explicitly stated that “no compromise version has yet been found” regarding potential peace agreements.

    This hardened stance aligns with Putin’s recent rhetoric, where he has characterized Ukrainian leadership as a “thieving junta” and accused European officials of undermining peace initiatives. Russian state media has simultaneously projected images of Putin in military attire analyzing frontline maps and celebrating alleged battlefield advances—claims frequently disputed by Ukrainian authorities and international observers.

    Nearly four years into Russia’s full-scale invasion, the Kremlin leader appears convinced of his strategic advantage despite substantial Russian casualties and economic strain. Putin’s demeanor suggests a leader determined to persuade Western nations of his inevitable victory, projecting an image of unstoppable momentum in pursuing military objectives.

    However, beneath this show of confidence lies increasing economic vulnerability. Despite circumventing international sanctions, Russia faces declining hydrocarbon revenues and expanding budget deficits. Putin himself acknowledged concerning “imbalances” within the Russian economy, noting decreased production output across several sectors this year.

    The critical question emerging from these developments is whether mounting economic pressures will eventually compel Moscow to recalibrate its military ambitions. While Putin currently maintains a posture of invincibility, the sustainability of Russia’s war effort remains contingent on continuous financial resources that show signs of deterioration.

  • China again urges Japan to withdraw incorrect words, abide by one-China principle

    China again urges Japan to withdraw incorrect words, abide by one-China principle

    Beijing has issued a renewed diplomatic appeal to Tokyo, demanding the immediate retraction of what it characterizes as fundamentally incorrect remarks concerning Taiwan. The statement was delivered by Zhang Han, spokesperson for China’s State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, during a regularly scheduled press conference on Wednesday.

    Zhang emphasized that recent comments attributed to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan constitute unacceptable interference in China’s internal affairs. Such statements, according to the spokesperson, send dangerously misleading signals to separatist factions advocating for Taiwanese independence while simultaneously undermining regional stability across the Taiwan Strait.

    The spokesperson invoked significant historical anniversaries to contextualize China’s position, noting that 2025 marks eight decades since victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and Taiwan’s restoration to China. Additionally, this year commemorates the 82nd anniversary of the Cairo Declaration—a document that, along with other internationally recognized legal instruments, explicitly affirms China’s sovereign claim over Taiwan.

    Zhang underscored that Japan bears specific obligations under international law to adhere to the provisions outlined in these foundational documents. The spokesperson concluded with an unequivocal declaration: ‘Taiwan is China’s Taiwan. It has never been, and will never be, a country. The future of Taiwan must be determined collectively by all Chinese people, including our compatriots in Taiwan.’

  • Hong Kong orders removal of scaffolding mesh after deadly blaze

    Hong Kong orders removal of scaffolding mesh after deadly blaze

    Hong Kong authorities have issued an urgent directive requiring the removal of all scaffolding netting from renovation sites by Saturday following the territory’s most devastating fire in decades. The catastrophic blaze at Wang Fuk Court housing complex has now claimed 159 lives, with 31 individuals still unaccounted for as search operations continue.

    Investigations reveal that the protective netting surrounding the complex, which was undergoing extensive renovations, failed to meet flame retardancy standards. The highly flammable material enabled flames to spread rapidly across multiple tower blocks, creating what survivors described as an uncontrollable inferno.

    Development Secretary Bernadette Linn Hon-ho announced that new testing guidelines for scaffolding materials will be implemented next week. “I assure the public that we will chase to the end the accountability of any contractors using substandard scaffolding mesh,” Linn stated, confirming that samples have already been collected for comprehensive analysis.

    The removal order affects approximately 300 buildings across Hong Kong, including 200 private residential structures and 10 public buildings currently undergoing renovations. Police have made at least 15 arrests for manslaughter as the criminal investigation progresses.

    Police Commissioner Joe Chow reported that search teams have completed interior examinations of all seven towers but continue recovery efforts in areas obscured by collapsed bamboo scaffolding. To date, 140 victims have been identified—49 males and 91 females ranging from one to 97 years old.

    Survivors recounted the horror of watching flames engulf building after building. “It all happened within just an hour or two,” said a woman identified only as Leung, who lost her home in the disaster. “The bamboo scaffolding cracked and there was banging that sounded like exploding windows. The flames were completely out of control.

    Her daughter Bonnie expressed the family’s hope for accountability: “We also hope the truth will come out—whether there were hidden hands behind this, corruption or any improper dealings.”

  • SELHAYA showcases British luxury craftsmanship at Istanbul Halal Expo

    SELHAYA showcases British luxury craftsmanship at Istanbul Halal Expo

    ISTANBUL – SELHAYA, the pioneering British luxury abaya Maison founded by acclaimed designer Aisha Hossain, has garnered significant international attention during its presentation at the Modest Fashion & Art Trade Show in Istanbul. The event, held under the patronage of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye, coincided with the 10th OIC Halal Expo and the 12th World Halal Summit – premier gatherings that shape the global halal economy landscape.

    The luxury brand showcased its exclusive silk capsule collection featuring six meticulously crafted pure-silk abayas, each design inspired by feminine resilience and strength. This presentation marked a milestone for the London-founded brand that draws spiritual inspiration from Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

    During the summit, Hossain received formal recognition from Halal Expo 2025 for SELHAYA’s contributions to sustainable modest luxury and UAE-crafted cultural couture. The award highlights the brand’s unique position at the intersection of British design sophistication and Emirati cultural refinement.

    Hossain participated in a high-level panel discussion on fashion diplomacy, articulating how modest fashion serves as a powerful medium for cultural expression beyond traditional diplomatic channels. She emphasized how design functions as a universal connective language and how women-led fashion houses can maintain cultural authenticity while achieving global market relevance.

    The showcased capsule collection originally debuted in Abu Dhabi during October’s ‘Wayakoum’ Breast Cancer Awareness initiative under the patronage of Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan. Demonstrating its philanthropic commitment, SELHAYA gifted bespoke abayas valued at Dh10,000 each to cancer fighters, reflecting the brand’s dedication to community upliftment and women’s wellbeing.

    ‘This collection honors women – their strength, and the quiet beauty they carry through every season of life,’ stated Hossain, who serves as both founder and creative director.

    SELHAYA continues to expand its global presence, bridging cultural aesthetics from London to Abu Dhabi while maintaining its commitment to elegance, resilience, and purposeful design across international markets.

  • Watch: Distracted driving causes multi-car crash, Abu Dhabi Police warn of Dh800 fine

    Watch: Distracted driving causes multi-car crash, Abu Dhabi Police warn of Dh800 fine

    Abu Dhabi authorities have issued a stark warning to motorists following the release of disturbing footage showing the catastrophic consequences of distracted driving. The emirate’s police force, in coordination with their Monitoring and Control Center, published visual evidence of severe traffic collisions directly resulting from driver inattention.

    The compelling video documentation reveals two separate incidents where momentary distractions escalated into dangerous multi-car accidents. In one scenario, an inattentive driver failed to brake appropriately, resulting in a collision with the preceding vehicle before careening across multiple lanes and striking the road divider. This chain reaction forced numerous other vehicles to emergency stops, creating a hazardous situation for all road users.

    A second captured incident demonstrates a high-speed rear-end collision where the impact was so substantial it detached the bumper of the struck vehicle, causing significant traffic disruption.

    Abu Dhabi Police emphasized through their ‘Your Comment’ initiative that maintaining complete focus while operating a vehicle is non-negotiable for road safety. Officials clarified that distractions extend beyond mobile phone usage to include any activity that diverts attention from the road, such as browsing social media, making calls, or taking photographs while driving.

    The transportation authority highlighted that such lapses in concentration frequently lead to severe traffic accidents with potentially fatal outcomes or life-altering injuries. As a deterrent, Abu Dhabi maintains strict penalties for distracted driving, imposing an 800-dirham fine accompanied by 4 traffic points for violations.

    This public awareness campaign serves as a critical reminder of every driver’s responsibility to prioritize road safety through undivided attention behind the wheel.

  • Germany starts putting into place the Arrow 3 missile defense system, bought from Israel

    Germany starts putting into place the Arrow 3 missile defense system, bought from Israel

    BERLIN — In a significant advancement of its national security infrastructure, Germany has officially commenced the deployment of the cutting-edge Arrow 3 missile defense system, acquired through a landmark agreement with Israel. The inaugural components of this sophisticated defense network were activated Wednesday at the Schönewalde military installation south of Berlin, marking the initial phase of a comprehensive rollout across multiple sites.

    Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the transformative nature of this acquisition, stating that Germany has now established its first-ever early-warning and protective capacity against long-range ballistic missile threats. “This strategic capability, which remains unique among our European partners, reinforces our central role at the heart of Europe,” Pistorius declared. “Consequently, we are providing protection not merely for ourselves but equally for our allied nations.”

    The procurement agreement, finalized in September 2023 following necessary authorization from the United States—a development partner in the Arrow system’s creation—represents a direct response to evolving security challenges following Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. The German Defense Ministry has allocated approximately €3.8 billion (equivalent to $4.4 billion) for the complete implementation, with spokesperson Mitko Müller confirming subsequent elements will be progressively integrated.

    Germany intends to incorporate the Arrow 3 system within broader NATO and European air defense initiatives, enhancing collective security architecture. The technology originates from Israel’s proven multi-tiered missile defense framework, which has demonstrated effectiveness against rocket threats from Gaza, Lebanon, and more recently, Yemeni rebels and Iranian capabilities.