Abu Dhabi is set to revolutionize urban transportation with the introduction of a cutting-edge flying taxi network. Abu Dhabi Airports announced on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the development of over 10 vertiports across strategic urban and transit locations, forming the foundation of an innovative air taxi ecosystem. These vertiports will serve as hubs for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional helicopters. The battery-powered eVTOLs, capable of carrying up to four passengers, are designed to be significantly quieter and environmentally friendly, with a noise footprint 100 times lower than conventional helicopters. The initial phase of the project will focus on Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI), establishing point-to-point routes to enhance airport-city connectivity. While current battery technology limits the range of these flights, future advancements are expected to enable inter-emirate travel, including routes to Al Ain. The first flights are anticipated to launch in 2026, with Abu Dhabi Airports overseeing infrastructure, operations, and commercial readiness. The initiative is a collaboration between Abu Dhabi Airports, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, the Integrated Transport Centre, and the General Civil Aviation Authority. Additionally, Abu Dhabi Airports has partnered with Skyports Infrastructure for the design, construction, and operation of the vertiports. This ambitious project aligns with the UAE’s vision for sustainable, low-emission transport innovation and marks a significant step toward redefining urban mobility.
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AP Interview: Newsom says Trump climate-fighting absence is ‘doubling down on stupid’
California Governor Gavin Newsom has sharply criticized the United States’ absence from the United Nations climate negotiations in Belem, Brazil, labeling it as a misguided move that could jeopardize the nation’s economic standing. Newsom, a prominent Democrat and potential 2028 presidential candidate, is among several U.S. governors and mayors attending the talks to emphasize that many American states remain committed to combating climate change despite federal policies under the Trump administration that favor fossil fuels and roll back environmental regulations.
Newsom highlighted the stark contrast between California’s progressive climate policies and the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw from the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature rise. He accused President Trump of sending a damaging message to the world by skipping the talks, stating, ‘You don’t matter, we don’t care.’ Newsom warned that the U.S. risks falling behind economically as other nations, including China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, aggressively transition to green energy and low-carbon technologies.
The Trump administration has sought to undermine California’s authority to implement ambitious climate measures, such as banning the sale of new gas-powered cars. Newsom criticized these efforts, calling them ‘doubling down on stupid’ and arguing that they cede economic power to other countries. Meanwhile, the White House defended Trump’s energy policies, accusing Newsom of promoting a ‘Green New Scam’ that has led to high energy prices in California.
Newsom also emphasized the undeniable impacts of climate change, citing California’s record-breaking wildfires, droughts, and floods as evidence. Despite the challenges, California continues to pursue its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045, investing in renewable energy, nuclear power, and advanced technologies like AI and nuclear fusion.
Analysts, including Alden Meyer of the European think tank E3G, praised the presence of U.S. state leaders at the talks but lamented the absence of federal representation. The ongoing climate negotiations underscore the global urgency to address environmental challenges and the economic opportunities tied to sustainable development.
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Watch: Trump and Obama honour US troops for Veterans Day
In a rare display of bipartisan unity, former U.S. Presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama came together to honor American veterans on Veterans Day. The event, held in Washington D.C., saw Trump making a surprise appearance by landing on a special flight carrying nearly 80 veterans from the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel, transcending political divides to pay tribute to their service. Both leaders expressed their gratitude and commitment to supporting veterans, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their contributions to the nation. The ceremony highlighted the enduring significance of Veterans Day as a time for reflection and national unity.
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Exhibition highlights historical and cultural roots of Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao
A groundbreaking exhibition at the Guangdong Museum in Guangzhou is shedding light on the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Titled ‘Love and Memory of the Greater Bay Area – Historical and Cultural Relics of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Since the 19th Century,’ the event opened on November 11 and will continue until March 8. Featuring over 350 cultural artifacts, the exhibition chronicles the social, economic, and cultural evolution of the Greater Bay Area over the past century. These relics illustrate how the three regions, despite geographical separation, have preserved a shared ancestry, traditions, and cultural bonds. The exhibition emphasizes that ‘Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao’ is not just a geographical term but a symbol of identity and a vital link that connects Hong Kong and Macao to mainland China through a shared heritage.
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UN rights chief calls for a probe into killings in Tanzania and allegations of concealing evidence
The United Nations has issued a call for a thorough investigation into the reported deaths of hundreds of individuals during protests against the disputed Tanzanian presidential election. The election, held on October 29, saw the exclusion of candidates from the two main opposition parties, sparking widespread unrest. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed concerns over what he described as ‘an apparent attempt to conceal evidence,’ citing reports that police removed bodies from mortuaries to undisclosed locations. Türk urged Tanzanian authorities to release the bodies to families for proper burial. The primary opposition party, Chadema, claims that approximately 2,000 people were killed over three days of protests, though the government has not provided an official death toll. The UN statement referenced ‘hundreds’ of fatalities but noted the difficulty in verifying exact numbers due to Tanzania’s volatile security situation and a six-day internet blackout following the election. Videos purportedly showing security forces shooting protesters circulated online once internet access was restored, prompting the government to warn citizens against sharing such content, threatening arrests and treason charges. Additionally, hundreds of individuals have been charged with treason in connection with the protests. The UN has called for the unconditional release of all detained opposition officials, including Chadema leader Tundu Lissu, whose treason trial was postponed due to security concerns. Meanwhile, newly elected members of parliament were sworn in on Tuesday, with the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party maintaining its dominant majority. Mussa Zungu, a member of the ruling party, was elected as the new speaker of parliament. Tensions remain high in Tanzania as the ruling party continues to suppress opposition voices and consolidate its long-standing grip on power.
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Israel’s occupation and bombing of south Lebanon makes return home impossible
Residents of southern Lebanon face an unrelenting crisis as Israeli military strikes continue to target Hezbollah’s infrastructure, forcing thousands to flee their homes. Avichay Adraee, the Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, has issued urgent warnings on social media platform X, signaling imminent attacks. These messages have become a grim routine for families in border villages, who live in constant fear of displacement.
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China showcases latest advances in metrology at Hunan exhibition
The 2nd Metrology Instrumentation and Equipment Exhibition kicked off on Tuesday in Hengyang, Hunan province, showcasing the latest advancements in metrology technology. Organized by the China Metrology Association, the three-day event attracted over 230 exhibitors from across the nation, highlighting innovations in industrial metrology, instrument manufacturing, and smart laboratory solutions. Spanning 15,000 square meters, the exhibition also emphasized international collaboration in the field. A standout innovation was the high-voltage transformer wiring robot developed by the State Grid Xinjiang Electric Power Co Ltd, which promises to enhance safety and efficiency in power infrastructure maintenance. The event underscores China’s commitment to advancing metrology technology and fostering global partnerships in the industry.
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DP World locks in landmark ten-year pledge to power the DP World Tour into a new era
In a groundbreaking move that underscores its long-term vision for global golf, DP World has announced a historic ten-year extension of its partnership with the DP World Tour. This landmark agreement, set to run until 2035, solidifies DP World’s role as the Title Partner and Official Logistics Partner of the season-ending DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, while also expanding its presence across 15 additional tournaments annually. The partnership, which began in 2022 with the rebranding of the European Tour to the DP World Tour, has already catalyzed unprecedented growth, with 42 tournaments spanning 26 countries, record prize funds, and a rapidly expanding global fan base. DP World’s commitment reflects its belief in golf’s potential to inspire, connect, and create opportunities worldwide. Initiatives like the DP World India Championship and sustainable projects such as the Second Life initiative, which repurposes shipping containers into training facilities, highlight the partnership’s focus on inclusivity and innovation. This collaboration, rooted in a shared vision since 2009, continues to redefine the future of golf, blending global trade with global sport to create a transformative impact.
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Tranquil Developers launches Blossom76 in JVC
Dubai’s real estate market is witnessing a surge in activity as developers capitalize on the growing interest in metro-linked areas. Tranquil Developers has recently launched Blossom76, a new residential project in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), strategically positioned to benefit from the upcoming Dubai Metro Blue Line. This development is part of a broader trend where infrastructure improvements are reshaping the city’s property landscape. The Blue Line, expected to connect key commercial and residential districts, is not just a transportation project but a catalyst for economic transformation. Dr. Sharad Nair, co-founder and chairman of Tranquil Developers, emphasized that the metro link is unlocking value in districts like JVC and redirecting investor focus toward emerging growth corridors. Aditya Khurana, co-founder and managing director, noted that buyers are increasingly prioritizing connected and community-based living, with proximity to metro routes becoming a critical factor for both end-users and investors. Industry reports highlight that off-plan transactions are driving activity in metro-connected zones, with average villa prices rising by 7.9% in the first half of 2025. Rental yields in JVC are projected to increase by 4.5% over the next year, supported by population growth and enhanced connectivity. Dubai’s property sector recorded Dh120 billion in residential sales in Q1 2025, marking an 18% year-on-year increase. Analysts attribute this growth partly to transport connectivity, with the Blue Line expected to improve accessibility across east and west Dubai, unlocking new demand in suburban communities. Tranquil Developers’ entry into JVC aligns with broader trends in Dubai’s property sector, where developers are responding to infrastructure expansion with targeted residential launches. As the Blue Line progresses, industry observers anticipate sustained demand in areas that integrate transport, affordability, and community living.
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Iraq: Muqtada al-Sadr urges boycott of ‘corrupt’ elections as low turnout expected
Iraq’s parliamentary elections commenced on Tuesday, marked by a subdued voter turnout and widespread calls for a boycott, notably from influential Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. Over 7,740 candidates, including a significant proportion of women, are vying for 329 seats. Preliminary results are anticipated by Wednesday, though final confirmation may extend over several weeks, as seen in previous elections. Reports from AFP correspondents indicate a notably low voter presence at midday, likely influenced by Sadr’s appeal to abstain from voting. In a recent social media statement, Sadr criticized the electoral system for perpetuating the dominance of corrupt politicians, urging Iraqis to reject the status quo. Despite relative stability since the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003, persistent issues like corruption, inadequate public services, and infrastructure decay have eroded public trust in the electoral process. Sadr’s supporters dominated the 2021 elections, which recorded the lowest turnout since 2003, but withdrew from parliament in June 2022 following a government formation deadlock. Sadr and others advocate for a comprehensive overhaul of the parliamentary system, which is widely perceived as sectarian and clientelist. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani aims to retain his position, with his success hinging on the Coordination Framework, a dominant Shia alliance. Sudani has navigated Iraq through regional tensions, including the fallout from the Gaza conflict and the strained relations between the US and Iran. Armed groups linked to the Coordination Framework have targeted Israeli and US interests, demanding the withdrawal of American forces. A recent Reuters report highlighted a US-Iraq agreement to reduce the American military presence by September 2025. Former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, a key figure in the elections, opposes Sudani’s re-election and emphasizes resisting foreign interference. Maliki criticized Sadr’s boycott calls, underscoring the challenges in conducting the elections amidst various obstacles.