A stunning 9.51-carat blue diamond, known as the ‘Mellon Blue,’ was sold for 20.5 million Swiss francs ($26.6 million) at a Christie’s auction in Geneva, Switzerland. The gem, named after the late American arts patron Rachel ‘Bunny’ Mellon, had been anticipated to fetch between $20 million and $30 million. The final price included the buyer’s premium and additional fees. Previously, the diamond was sold in 2014 for $32.6 million, marking one of the highest prices ever paid for a colored diamond at auction. The ‘Mellon Blue’ had been a prized possession in Mellon’s private collection for decades. Max Fawcett, Christie’s global head of jewelry, highlighted the diamond’s exceptional quality, describing it as a ‘gem of gems’ due to its Fancy Vivid Blue color and Internally Flawless grade, as certified by the Gemological Institute of America. The auction marked the beginning of a two-day jewelry event in Geneva, with Sotheby’s set to auction the ‘Glowing Rose’ pink diamond, expected to attract bids around $20 million.
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Esha Deol, Hema Malini deny Dharmendra’s death reports, blast media
Amid widespread rumors regarding the health of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, his wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol have vehemently denied false reports of his demise. The family has expressed outrage over irresponsible media coverage, urging the public and press to respect their privacy during this challenging time. Hema Malini took to social media to condemn the spread of misinformation, stating, ‘What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and is recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful and irresponsible.’ Esha Deol, 44, echoed her mother’s sentiments, confirming that her father is ‘stable and recovering’ and pleading with the media to refrain from disseminating baseless claims. The false reports gained traction after Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh mistakenly tweeted condolences, which were later deleted. Dharmendra, 89, is currently receiving treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where several Bollywood celebrities, including Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel, have visited to check on his condition. Family members, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, grandchildren Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol, and Hema Malini, have been by his side.
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DP World Tour launches ‘Rory McIlroy Award’ to honour Europe’s first Grand Slam winner
The DP World Tour has introduced a groundbreaking accolade, the Rory McIlroy Award, to celebrate the Northern Irish golfer’s historic Career Grand Slam achievement. Unveiled during the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, the award will debut in 2026, recognizing the DP World Tour member who delivers the most outstanding performance across the four Major Championships in a season. McIlroy, who became the first European to complete the Career Grand Slam earlier this year, expressed deep gratitude for the honor. ‘It’s a huge privilege to have something named after me that will inspire future generations of players,’ he said. The award will be based on Race to Dubai points earned at the Masters, US PGA Championship, US Open, and The Open. McIlroy’s Masters victory in April, secured in a thrilling playoff against Justin Rose, marked the culmination of his Grand Slam journey, which began with his 2011 US Open win. DP World Tour Chief Executive Guy Kinnings emphasized the award’s significance, stating, ‘This is a permanent legacy to honor Rory’s extraordinary contributions to golf and to inspire future talents.’ The Rory McIlroy Award joins other prestigious honors named after European golf legends, including the Seve Ballesteros Award and the Harry Vardon Trophy. Notably, McIlroy will be ineligible to win the award, ensuring it remains a symbol of aspiration for emerging players.
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‘Role model’ team shares how it’s protecting juveniles in Chongqing
The Chongqing procuratorates’ juvenile protection work team, recently honored as the ‘Role Model of the Times,’ shared their inspiring journey at an event held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The event, co-organized by the Communist Party of China Central Committee’s Publicity Department, the Political and Legal Affairs Commission, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, and the CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, highlighted the team’s dedication to safeguarding the rights and well-being of minors. Six representatives from the team recounted their experiences, emphasizing the dual importance of legal rigor and human compassion in juvenile protection. Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, praised the team’s efforts and urged nationwide legal institutions to emulate their approach. Established in 2004, the team has evolved from a single post to a robust network of 45 posts with over 500 members, handling cases and providing comprehensive protection for minors. Guided by the principle of ‘wishing every child to grow up better,’ the team has significantly contributed to the healthy development of minors and the efficiency of child protection governance.
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Israel’s Ben Gvir hands out sweets after death penalty bill for Palestinians advances
A contentious bill proposing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners convicted of killing Israelis on nationalistic grounds has cleared its first reading in Israel’s Knesset. The legislation, which passed with 39 votes in favor and 16 against, was celebrated by Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir, who distributed sweets in parliament. The bill, however, excludes Israelis who kill Palestinians under similar circumstances, sparking accusations of discriminatory practices. To become law, the bill must undergo two additional readings in the Knesset. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Palestinian factions, with Hamas labeling the legislation as ‘fascist and sadistic’ and calling for international sanctions against Israel. Islamic Jihad described the bill’s advancement as a ‘dangerous criminal escalation.’ Israeli security officials had initially opposed the measure, fearing it could endanger Israeli captives held by Palestinian groups. However, following the release of surviving hostages by Hamas last month, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved the bill’s progression. Critics argue that the legislation exacerbates Israel’s systemic human rights abuses against Palestinian detainees, with reports of torture, medical neglect, and starvation in Israeli prisons. Human rights organizations have condemned the bill as a ‘grave escalation’ in Israel’s apartheid regime, emphasizing its exclusive application to Palestinians. Currently, an estimated 9,250 Palestinian prisoners are held across 23 Israeli detention facilities, with additional unaccounted-for detainees in military camps.
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Tunisian star Jabeur announces pregnancy, takes break from tennis
Tunisian tennis sensation Ons Jabeur, a former world number two and three-time Grand Slam finalist, has announced her pregnancy and an extended hiatus from professional tennis. The 31-year-old athlete, affectionately known as the ‘Minister of Happiness,’ revealed on Instagram that she is expecting a baby boy in April. Jabeur, currently ranked 79th, stated that she will temporarily step away from the sport to focus on her new family life.
Jabeur’s announcement comes as she reflects on her demanding tour schedule and her openness about battling depression amidst the pressures of professional tennis. With five WTA singles titles to her name, Jabeur’s decision highlights ongoing concerns about the strenuous tennis calendar and its impact on players’ mental and physical well-being.
Her Instagram post, which read, ‘I took a little break to reset and recharge … Turns out, we’ve been planning the cutest comeback ever,’ has been met with widespread support from fans and fellow athletes. Jabeur’s break from the sport marks a significant moment in her career, as she balances her professional achievements with her personal journey into motherhood.
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Hema Malini says reports of Dharmendra’s death are ‘unforgivable and disrespectul’
Amid widespread speculation about Bollywood legend Dharmendra’s health, his wife, actress and politician Hema Malini, has vehemently denounced false media reports claiming his death. In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Malini expressed her outrage, stating, ‘What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and is recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful and irresponsible.’ She further urged the public and media to respect the family’s privacy during this challenging time.
The controversy arose after several news outlets inaccurately reported Dharmendra’s demise, despite the actor being hospitalized and in stable condition. Their daughter, Esha Deol, also took to Instagram to clarify the situation, writing, ‘The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering. We request everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for papa’s speedy recovery.’
Dharmendra, a veteran of Indian cinema, has been under medical care at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. His family, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, as well as grandchildren Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol, have been by his side. Prominent Bollywood figures such as Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel have also visited the hospital to check on his condition.
Sunny Deol, in an official statement, confirmed that his father remains stable and under observation. He requested the public to refrain from spreading rumors and to pray for Dharmendra’s swift recovery. The family has emphasized the importance of respecting their privacy as they navigate this sensitive period.
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UAE flying taxis: Archer to deliver additional aircraft in 2026, ahead of commercial launch
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is poised to become the global leader in urban air mobility as Archer Aviation, a US-based electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, prepares to deliver an additional aircraft in 2026. This milestone precedes the anticipated commercial launch of air taxi services in the UAE, marking a significant leap in futuristic transportation. Archer Aviation’s Chief Commercial Officer, Nikhil Goel, revealed these plans during an interview, highlighting the company’s partnership with Abu Dhabi Aviation and its ongoing collaboration with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
In July 2025, Archer conducted a landmark test flight of its Midnight aircraft in front of the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. This trial, part of a broader campaign to ensure operational efficiency in extreme heat, marked Archer’s first flight test outside the United States. Goel described the event as a pivotal moment, emphasizing its symbolic significance in the heart of the city. The company plans to continue its flight tests in the region, with the goal of certifying the aircraft and commencing passenger operations.
Goel also disclosed that Abu Dhabi Aviation has already made substantial payments, in the seven-figure range, to Archer as part of their commercial agreement. These payments will enable the company to recognize revenue starting next year. Additionally, Archer is making rapid progress in obtaining certification from both the GCAA and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The UAE’s pioneering efforts in urban air mobility have garnered significant interest from other Middle Eastern nations, which are now exploring similar initiatives. Goel noted that regional countries are keen to replicate the UAE’s collaboration with Archer and the GCAA to bring flying taxi services to their own markets. The UAE is expected to be the first country globally to commercially launch flying taxis, solidifying its position as a hub for innovation and cutting-edge technology.
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Watch: Sheikh Khaled meets Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan in Abu Dhabi
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, met with Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala, India, in Abu Dhabi on November 8, 2025. The meeting, attended by a high-level delegation, focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across key sectors, aligning with the strategic visions of both the UAE and India to bolster economic and developmental partnerships. Pinarayi Vijayan’s visit to the UAE Capital was marked by a warm reception from the Malayalee diaspora, including prominent figures such as MA Yusuff Ali, Chairman and Managing Director of Lulu Group International. The discussions also touched upon the role of the Loka Kerala Sabha, a platform dedicated to the cultural, socio-political, and economic integration of non-resident Keralites. With Indian expats constituting the largest population group in the UAE, reaching 4.36 million as of August 2025, the meeting underscored the importance of fostering stronger ties between the UAE and Kerala, a state in southern India. Pinarayi Vijayan’s visit also included engagements with the Keralite community in the UAE, further solidifying the deep-rooted connections between the two regions.
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Dubai Taxi Company posts 28% surge in Q3 on strong mobility demand
Dubai Taxi Company PJSC (DTC) has announced a remarkable 28% year-on-year increase in net profit for the third quarter of 2025, reaching Dh76.4 million. This growth was fueled by heightened trip volumes and sustained demand across its mobility services. The company’s revenue also saw a significant boost, climbing 15% to Dh585.3 million, driven by fleet expansion and a 7% rise in completed trips, totaling 13.1 million across taxi and limousine services. Ebitda surged 23% to Dh151.4 million, with margins improving to 26%, up two percentage points from the previous year. The taxi segment remained the primary revenue generator, contributing Dh506 million, a 12% increase year-on-year, as the operational fleet expanded to 6,215 vehicles, including 401 fully electric units. Limousine revenue saw a modest 1% rise to Dh27.8 million, while the bus segment nearly doubled its revenue to Dh29.8 million, following revised contract terms with a major client. Delivery bike services experienced a 62% surge, reaching Dh18.3 million, reflecting robust growth in the on-demand delivery market. DTC distributed Dh160.7 million in dividends for the first half of the year in August, adhering to its policy of paying out at least 85% of annual net profit. The company concluded the quarter with a net debt-to-Ebitda ratio of 1.5x and a cash balance of Dh68 million. CEO Mansoor Rahma Alfalasi highlighted the company’s disciplined execution and operational excellence, noting a strategic partnership with Kabi as a significant step toward advancing Dubai’s e-hailing ecosystem. This alliance integrates DTC’s 6,215 taxis and Kabi’s 3,680 vehicles into Bolt and Zed platforms, aligning with Dubai’s goal to shift 80% of taxi trips to e-hailing. Looking forward, DTC aims to sustain growth through efficiency gains, digital enablement, and fleet optimization, while progressing toward its target of full electrification by 2040.