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  • The Egyptian green tech firm looking to cut energy bills

    The Egyptian green tech firm looking to cut energy bills

    In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable energy solutions, the Egyptian green technology company Saving System has unveiled a cutting-edge device designed to significantly reduce electricity consumption for businesses. This innovative technology promises to help companies slash their energy bills while contributing to environmental conservation. The device, developed after extensive research and testing, targets inefficiencies in energy usage, offering a practical and cost-effective solution for industries grappling with rising energy costs. As global attention shifts towards renewable energy and carbon footprint reduction, Saving System’s invention positions Egypt as a key player in the green tech revolution. The company’s initiative aligns with international efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. Industry experts have lauded the innovation, noting its potential to transform energy management practices across various sectors. With energy efficiency becoming a critical concern worldwide, Saving System’s device could pave the way for a more sustainable and economically viable future.

  • US will give visa appointment priority to World Cup ticket holders

    US will give visa appointment priority to World Cup ticket holders

    In a significant move to streamline visa processes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, President Donald Trump has unveiled the FIFA Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System (PASS). This initiative, announced at the White House on Monday, aims to expedite visa interviews for foreign nationals holding tickets to the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that while ticket-holders will not automatically receive visas, they will be prioritized for interviews within six to eight weeks of application. However, Rubio clarified that possessing a ticket does not guarantee entry into the U.S., as all applicants will undergo standard vetting procedures. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, present at the announcement, projected that up to 10 million visitors could attend the event, underscoring the importance of efficient visa processing. The announcement comes amid lengthy visa wait times in countries like Colombia (11 months), Mexico City (9.5 months), and Toronto (14 months), which could otherwise hinder fans from attending the tournament. The U.S. Travel Association praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance security while reducing wait times. However, questions remain about the eligibility of ticket-holders from countries affected by Trump’s June executive order, which restricts travel from 12 nations, including Iran, whose team has qualified for the World Cup. While the order exempts athletes and coaching staff, fans from these countries may still face travel bans. The BBC has reached out to the U.S. State Department for further clarification. Notably, citizens of countries under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, including much of Europe, Japan, and Australia, can travel visa-free for up to 90 days. This contrasts with recent World Cups in Russia and Qatar, where tickets served as fan IDs, functioning like visas for entry.

  • New coin honors Freddie Mercury and his 4-octave range

    New coin honors Freddie Mercury and his 4-octave range

    The Royal Mint of Britain has unveiled a special commemorative coin honoring the legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, celebrating the 40th anniversary of his iconic Live Aid performance in 1985. The coin, designed with meticulous detail, features Mercury in his signature pose—head thrown back, gripping the microphone stand—capturing the essence of his electrifying stage presence. A musical stave encircling the coin symbolizes his extraordinary four-octave vocal range, a testament to his unparalleled talent. The first coin was ceremoniously struck by Mercury’s sister, Kashmira Bulsara, at the Royal Mint in Wales. Bulsara expressed her delight, stating, ‘This coin is a fitting tribute to Freddie’s legacy and the joy he brought to millions through his music.’ Rebecca Morgan, the Royal Mint’s director of commemorative coins, emphasized the perfect timing of the release, noting that fans had long awaited such a tribute. The coin’s launch coincides with the 40th anniversary of Mercury’s solo album, ‘Mr Bad Guy,’ and follows the Mint’s tradition of honoring music legends like David Bowie and Paul McCartney. Available for purchase on the Royal Mint’s website, the coins range from 18.50 pounds for an uncirculated version to 9,350 pounds for a 2 oz. gold proof edition. Additionally, a special gold edition will be donated to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, a charity established in Mercury’s memory to support those affected by HIV and AIDS.

  • South Africa coach lauds Bavuma as one of the best in the world

    South Africa coach lauds Bavuma as one of the best in the world

    South Africa’s cricket coach, Shukri Conrad, has hailed captain Temba Bavuma as one of the finest batters in the world, following his pivotal performance in the first Test against India at Eden Gardens. Bavuma’s unbeaten 55 on a challenging wicket in the second innings was instrumental in setting a modest target of 124 runs, which India failed to chase, being bowled out for 93. This victory marked South Africa’s first Test win in India since 2010. Conrad emphasized Bavuma’s exceptional consistency and leadership, noting that he has averaged 57.00 with the bat in his 11 Tests as captain, winning 10 and drawing one. The coach praised Bavuma’s ability to stick to his game plan, even when conditions were difficult, and highlighted the team’s resilience and unity as key factors in their success. The second and final Test of the series will commence in Guwahati on Saturday.

  • Italy fans brace for more Fifa World Cup playoff drama

    Italy fans brace for more Fifa World Cup playoff drama

    Italian football fans are grappling with a sense of déjà vu as their national team faces yet another World Cup playoff challenge. The Azzurri, four-time world champions, suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat to Norway in their final qualifier at San Siro, dashing hopes of direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The loss leaves Italy with the daunting task of navigating the playoffs in March to avoid missing the tournament for a third consecutive time.

  • Dubai: Nol Pay app users can now renew expiring cards, extend validity of travel passes

    Dubai: Nol Pay app users can now renew expiring cards, extend validity of travel passes

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a significant upgrade to the Nol Pay app, introducing a suite of new features designed to enhance user convenience and efficiency. The updated app now allows users to renew expiring cards, extend the validity of travel passes, and manage family members’ Nol cards with ease. Proactive notifications remind users to top up low balances, while instant top-ups and real-time balance enquiries ensure seamless transactions. Additionally, users can schedule automatic top-ups for family cards at predefined intervals and purchase travel passes instantly. The app also supports digitized Nol cards on Samsung and Huawei devices, enabling payments across public transport and retail outlets with a simple tap—without opening the app. This upgrade is part of RTA’s broader initiative to integrate Account Based Ticketing (ABT) technology, aligning the app’s interface with the unified digital ecosystem of RTA. By the end of 2024, over 33,000 digital cards had been sold, marking a 460% increase from the previous year, while app downloads surged to 1.5 million, reflecting a 150% year-on-year growth.

  • Sharjah: Man saved from drowning in open sea; rescue team honoured

    Sharjah: Man saved from drowning in open sea; rescue team honoured

    In a dramatic rescue operation, the Sharjah Civil Defence Marine Rescue Unit saved a man from drowning during a routine patrol on November 17, 2025. The team encountered the individual in a life-threatening condition in the open sea and acted swiftly to bring him aboard their vessel. Immediate first aid was administered before the man was transported to specialized medical facilities for further treatment. The Director General of the Sharjah Civil Defense Authority, Colonel Youssef Obaid Harmoul Al-Shamsi, honored the rescue team for their high readiness and rapid response. This incident highlights the critical role of marine rescue units in ensuring public safety along the UAE’s coastlines. Authorities have been actively promoting beach safety, with Dubai Police recently increasing patrols and introducing summer training programs for school students to teach lifeguarding and rescue techniques. The public is also encouraged to volunteer in maritime safety initiatives, particularly during major events. Mamzar Beach, a shared area between Sharjah and Dubai, has witnessed several drowning incidents in recent years, underscoring the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines. The Sharjah Civil Defense Authority continues to emphasize the need for community involvement in preventing such tragedies.

  • A Chinese firm bought an insurer for CIA agents – part of Beijing’s trillion dollar spending spree

    A Chinese firm bought an insurer for CIA agents – part of Beijing’s trillion dollar spending spree

    Since 2018, the United States has significantly tightened its laws to prevent foreign adversaries, particularly China, from investing in sensitive sectors such as semiconductors and telecommunications. This shift in policy was partly triggered by the 2015 acquisition of Wright USA, a small insurance company specializing in liability insurance for FBI and CIA agents, by China’s Fosun Group. The deal raised alarms in Washington due to Wright USA’s access to personal details of top U.S. intelligence officials. Although the transaction was legal, it highlighted the potential risks of Chinese state-backed investments in critical industries. This case, along with others, led to the Trump administration’s stricter investment regulations.

  • Aster DM Healthcare secures Dh265m in financing from Emirates Development Bank

    Aster DM Healthcare secures Dh265m in financing from Emirates Development Bank

    Aster DM Healthcare, a prominent integrated healthcare provider in the UAE and GCC, has announced a strategic partnership with Emirates Development Bank (EDB) to secure Dh265 million ($72 million) in financing. This funding will support the development of two new multi-specialty hospitals in Dubai, aimed at addressing the growing demand for quality healthcare services in the region. The agreement, signed by Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, and Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, marks a significant step in expanding healthcare infrastructure in the UAE. The new facilities will add over 250 beds to Aster’s existing capacity of approximately 920 beds, enabling the treatment of more than 560,000 patients annually. Once operational, the hospitals will employ over 675 doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, bolstering the local healthcare workforce. Emirates Development Bank, a key driver of economic growth in the UAE, focuses on priority sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and renewable energy. This partnership aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai as a global leader in healthcare. Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, emphasized the alignment of this expansion with the UAE’s broader economic goals. Iqbal Khan, CEO of Fajr Capital and Board Member of Aster DM Healthcare, highlighted the shared vision of building a regional healthcare champion dedicated to delivering accessible, high-quality care across the GCC.

  • Will Trump’s tariff rollback lower food prices?

    Will Trump’s tariff rollback lower food prices?

    In a significant policy shift, former President Donald Trump recently announced the removal of tariffs on over 200 products, including staples like bananas and coffee. This decision, seen as a political concession, aims to address rising cost-of-living concerns that have been impacting White House approval ratings and Republican electoral prospects. The Food Industry Association (FMI) lauded the move as a ‘critical step’ toward affordability, echoing sentiments from various business groups. However, the practical economic relief may not match the political significance of the gesture. According to Yale’s Budget Lab, Trump’s tariffs, which include a 10% baseline tax on imports and additional levies on many trading partners, were projected to increase food prices by 1.9% in the short term. Historically, U.S. grocery prices have been relatively stable, rising an average of only 2% annually between 2013 and 2021. While the tariff removal targets items with negligible domestic production, such as coffee, spices, and tropical fruits, its overall impact on household grocery budgets is expected to be modest. Economists note that imports account for less than 20% of total U.S. food and beverage purchases, with many imports from Mexico already exempt due to trade agreements. Additionally, factors like rising labor costs and droughts continue to drive food prices upward. Despite the tariff rollback, food companies still face higher costs from tariffs on materials like aluminum, used in canned foods, and items like wine, cheese, and palm oil remain unaffected. The Trump administration has framed high food prices as a legacy issue from the Biden era, cautioning that significant price reductions will take time. While some price relief is anticipated, experts warn that the psychological impact of high prices may persist, influencing future industry decisions.