In a groundbreaking move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to introduce a nasal spray flu vaccine for the first time, as reported by Emarat Al Youm. This innovative needle-free option will be available in both public and private healthcare centers and hospitals across the country, marking a significant expansion in the nation’s immunization strategy. The vaccine, which covers the same flu strains as the traditional injectable version, is designed for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49 years old. It utilizes a live attenuated virus, making it an ideal choice for children and those who are apprehensive about needles. The Ministry of Health and Prevention emphasized that this new option aims to enhance vaccination coverage rates and provide safe, effective alternatives for the community. Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of the Public Health and Prevention Department, highlighted that the nasal spray vaccine first received U.S. FDA approval in 2003 for ages 5 to 49, with the age range later extended to include children as young as 2 in 2007. However, the vaccine is not recommended for certain groups, including children under 2, adults over 50, pregnant women, individuals with immune disorders, and those with specific chronic diseases. For these groups, the injectable vaccine or other physician-recommended options remain the preferred choice. The Ministry assured that the nasal spray vaccine is registered in the UAE and subject to rigorous pharmaceutical oversight, with approvals from global regulatory bodies such as the FDA, WHO, and EMA. Additionally, the UAE’s pharmacovigilance program will monitor the vaccine’s side effects and effectiveness to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality.
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Prime Minister oversees signing of 55 pacts in major push for Egypt’s offshoring industry
In a landmark move to strengthen its position in the global offshoring industry, Egypt has inked 55 strategic agreements with leading multinational and local technology firms. The signing ceremony, held under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly and attended by Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, marks a significant milestone in Egypt’s journey to becoming a global delivery powerhouse. The partnerships include major players such as Teleperformance, Accenture, Deloitte, VOIS, Luxoft, RSA, and Capgemini, underscoring Egypt’s growing appeal as a hub for digital and business services. These agreements are expected to create over 70,000 high-value jobs, particularly in business process outsourcing (BPO), IT, engineering, and high-end technology services. This initiative aligns with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency’s (ITIDA) strategic goals to attract foreign investment, generate sustainable employment, and position Egypt as a trusted partner for global enterprises. Dr. Talaat highlighted Egypt’s RISE framework—Reliable talent, Infrastructure readiness, Strategic proximity, and Efficient cost structure—as key drivers of the country’s success. Eng. Ahmed Elzaher, CEO of ITIDA, emphasized the significance of these partnerships in advancing Egypt’s digital economy and expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to meet global market demands. The agreements not only reflect strong investor confidence but also demonstrate Egypt’s commitment to empowering its workforce with future-ready skills and fostering a knowledge-based economy.
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SelfDrive Mobility launches the region’s first conversational AI car rental reservation system
SelfDrive Mobility, a leading UAE-based smart mobility innovator, has unveiled the SelfDrive Intelligence Assistant (SIA), the region’s first commercially launched conversational AI system for car rentals. This groundbreaking technology, accessible via the SelfDrive website and mobile app, supports over 40 languages and offers an intuitive, human-like booking experience. SIA transforms the traditionally complex car rental process into a seamless, conversational interaction, allowing users to search, compare, and book vehicles effortlessly in their preferred language. The system’s advanced capabilities include contextual understanding, adaptive recommendations, and real-time personalization, ensuring a faster, smarter, and more personalized experience for users. Soham Shah, founder and CEO of SelfDrive Mobility, emphasized that SIA bridges the gap between AI efficiency and human-centric service, automating routine tasks while enabling customer agents to focus on higher-value interactions. The launch aligns with the UAE’s national AI vision, positioning the country as a global leader in intelligent technology adoption. Since its soft launch, SelfDrive has seen a 25% increase in AI-driven bookings, reflecting strong consumer trust and enthusiasm. To celebrate the official launch, SelfDrive is offering exclusive discounts, including Dh100 off monthly rentals and Dh50 off daily or weekly bookings. SIA is now live and ready to revolutionize the car rental experience at www.selfdrive.ae.
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Germany and Netherlands lock up World Cup spots in style
Germany and the Netherlands showcased their footballing prowess as they secured their spots in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with commanding victories in their final European qualifying matches. Germany delivered a masterclass performance, thrashing Slovakia 6-0 in Leipzig, while the Netherlands overcame Lithuania 4-0 in Amsterdam. Both teams needed only a draw to qualify but opted for an attacking approach, leaving no room for doubt about their World Cup ambitions. Germany’s Julian Nagelsmann praised his team’s relentless effort, stating, ‘Every player played well today and worked like a dog.’ The Netherlands, under Ronald Koeman, entertained their home crowd with high-tempo play, leaving Lithuania struggling to keep up. Slovakia and Poland secured second-place finishes in their respective groups, earning a spot in the European play-offs. Croatia and the Czech Republic also celebrated victories, with the latter demolishing Gibraltar 6-0. The road to the World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, continues to unfold with thrilling performances and unexpected twists.
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Poll unrest has ‘stained’ Tanzania’s global image, president says
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has initiated an official investigation into the violent unrest that erupted following last month’s contentious elections, acknowledging that the turmoil has tarnished the nation’s reputation for stability. Speaking during the swearing-in of her new cabinet, President Samia emphasized that the violence could hinder Tanzania’s progress and undermine its credibility on the global stage. “Our stability and progress previously secured us international loans, but recent events have eroded that trust,” she stated. The October elections, in which Samia was declared the winner with 98% of the vote, were marred by allegations of fraud and the disqualification of key opposition candidates. The opposition labeled the election a “mockery of democracy.” Reports suggest hundreds may have died during protests, which were met with a severe crackdown by security forces and a five-day internet blackout. While the authorities have not released an official death toll, graphic images and videos of the violence have circulated widely. In response, President Samia has urged prosecutors to consider reducing or dropping charges for detained individuals not directly involved in the protests. Meanwhile, Lazarus Chakwera, Malawi’s former president and Commonwealth envoy, is set to lead reconciliation efforts in Tanzania. President Samia also warned of potential economic challenges in her next term, stressing the need to mobilize domestic resources. Notably, her daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, was appointed deputy education minister, while her son-in-law retained his position as health minister. The Commonwealth has expressed hope that Chakwera’s mission will foster constructive dialogue in the region.
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UAE face do-or-die battle against Iraq today in World Cup playoff
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) football team is gearing up for a decisive encounter against Iraq in the second leg of the fifth-round playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Scheduled to take place at the Basra International Stadium, which boasts a capacity of 65,000, the match is set to be a high-stakes battle for both teams. The UAE, under the guidance of coach Cosmin Olaroiu, must summon all their resilience and tactical prowess to keep their World Cup aspirations alive. The first leg, held in Abu Dhabi on November 13, ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving everything to play for in this crucial fixture. Iraq, riding on a four-match unbeaten streak, will be looking to leverage their home advantage and the fervent support of their fans to secure a victory. The winner of this playoff will advance to the six-team intercontinental playoff in March, where the top two teams will earn the final spots for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico. For the UAE, a loss would mean another agonizing four-year wait for a World Cup berth. Olaroiu emphasized the importance of mental fortitude and adaptability, acknowledging the intimidating atmosphere that the Iraqi fans are expected to create. The UAE’s strategy will likely hinge on solid defensive organization and swift counterattacks, with key players like Caio Canedo and Ali Saleh playing pivotal roles. Goalkeeper Khalid Eisa, who was instrumental in the first leg, will also be crucial in thwarting Iraq’s offensive threats. As both teams prepare for this do-or-die clash, the stakes could not be higher, with the dreams of an entire nation hanging in the balance.
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Two Ukrainians working for Russia behind rail sabotage, Polish PM says
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has identified two Ukrainian citizens, allegedly working for Russian intelligence, as the perpetrators behind two recent acts of sabotage on Poland’s rail network. The incidents, which occurred near the villages of Mika and Pulawy, involved the detonation of a military-grade C4 explosive and damage to railway infrastructure, respectively. Tusk described these acts as ‘unprecedented sabotage’ aimed at causing rail catastrophes and sowing panic in Polish society. The suspects, one residing in Belarus and the other in eastern Ukraine, had crossed into Poland from Belarus and later returned there. Tusk emphasized that Russia’s motivation was not only to disrupt railway operations but also to stir anti-Ukrainian sentiment among Poland’s large Ukrainian refugee population. Poland, a NATO and EU member, has been a critical transit route for aid to Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. In response to the incidents, Tusk announced plans to raise the alert level on certain railway lines and highlighted that 55 individuals have been detained since last year for suspected involvement in sabotage activities. Russia has yet to comment on the allegations.
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Saudi bus crash: 18 victims from 1 family killed, including 9 children
A devastating bus accident in Saudi Arabia has resulted in the deaths of 45 individuals, predominantly Indian pilgrims. Among the victims were 18 members of a single family from Hyderabad, including nine children. The family was scheduled to return home on Saturday, as reported by their relatives to NDTV. A poignant photograph, one of the last taken by the victims, was shared by the family. The tragic incident occurred late Sunday night when the bus, en route from Mecca to Medinah, collided with a diesel tanker.
Saudi traffic authorities have launched an investigation into the crash, with legal procedures currently underway. In response to the disaster, control rooms have been established in Telengana and Jeddah, offering 24/7 helplines to assist affected families. Officials from Telengana have met with the bereaved families to provide support and facilitate the identification of victims.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu have expressed their heartfelt condolences. Indian officials are in continuous communication with Saudi authorities to manage the aftermath of the tragedy. The final rites for the victims are set to be conducted in Saudi Arabia, as the community mourns this profound loss.
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Germany’s Kessler twins, who became dance stars in the 50s and 60s, die at 89
BERLIN (AP) — Alice and Ellen Kessler, the celebrated twin dancers and singers who rose to fame in the 1950s and shared the stage with legends like Fred Astaire, Frank Sinatra, and Harry Belafonte, have died at the age of 89. German police confirmed their passing on Tuesday, describing it as a “joint suicide.” The twins resided in Grünwald, an affluent suburb of Munich, where they shared a home. Their deaths were initially reported by German newspaper Bild and news agency dpa on Monday, though no sources were cited at the time. Born in Germany, the Kessler twins began their artistic journey at a young age, joining the Leipzig Opera children’s ballet. In 1952, at the age of 16, their family fled to West Germany, where they performed in a revue theater in Düsseldorf. Their big break came in 1955 when they were discovered by the director of the Lido cabaret theater in Paris, launching their international career. Throughout the 1960s, the twins toured globally, relocated to Rome, and collaborated with entertainment icons. Notably, they declined an offer to appear alongside Elvis Presley in the 1964 film “Viva Las Vegas,” fearing they would be typecast in American musical films. Even in their later years, the twins remained active in the arts, performing in a musical at the age of 80. Alice once reflected on their enduring partnership, stating, “Together you’re stronger.” When asked about their success, she emphasized the importance of discipline, gratitude, humility, and togetherness, concluding, “Until death.”
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Eswatini is the first African country to get twice-yearly HIV prevention shot
Eswatini has made history by becoming the first African nation to introduce lenacapavir, a revolutionary twice-yearly HIV prevention injection. Developed by Gilead Sciences, this groundbreaking drug has shown near-total protection in clinical trials and is hailed as a transformative tool in combating HIV, a virus that has claimed millions of lives across the continent. The rollout is part of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), in collaboration with the Global Fund, aiming to benefit at least 2 million people in 10 high-risk African countries by 2027. Eswatini, with the world’s highest HIV incidence, received the drug in the same year as its U.S. approval, marking a significant milestone. Zambia also received its first shipment, while regulatory approvals are pending in Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. The U.S. initially planned to distribute 250,000 doses in 2024 but increased this to 325,000 due to high demand. In Eswatini, approximately 6,000 high-risk individuals, particularly mothers and newborns, will benefit from the initial rollout. Despite its potential, concerns over limited supplies and manufacturing rights have sparked debates, with South Africa’s health minister highlighting the need for broader access. Gilead has significantly reduced the drug’s price for lower-income countries, making it more accessible. However, civil society groups in South Africa have criticized the exclusion of local manufacturers from licensing agreements, despite their contributions to clinical trials.