Catherine Connolly, an independent politician, was officially inaugurated as the Republic of Ireland’s 10th president in a grand ceremony held at Dublin Castle on Tuesday. The 68-year-old, who secured a landslide victory in the October elections, succeeds Michael D. Higgins, whose 14-year tenure concluded at midnight. The event was attended by prominent figures including Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Tánaiste Simon Harris, senior government ministers, and judges. Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also graced the occasion, though Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly was absent due to prior commitments related to Remembrance Day. Connolly, accompanied by her husband Brian McEnery, arrived at Dublin Castle in a ceremonial motorcade from Farmleigh at Phoenix Park. The swearing-in ceremony, presided over by the chief justice, took place in St Patrick’s Hall, followed by a service of prayer and reflection. Connolly delivered a speech after receiving the Presidential Seal, emphasizing her commitment to being an inclusive leader for all. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) did not send a representative, with party leader Gavin Robinson clarifying it was not a snub but a scheduling conflict. Ulster Unionist Party assembly member Steve Aiken attended in place of his party leader, Mike Nesbitt. Post-ceremony, Connolly traveled to Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the Irish president, where a state reception was held later in the evening. Connolly, who has served as a TD since 2016, brings a wealth of experience as a barrister and psychologist to her new role. Her election will trigger a by-election in Galway West.
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US Senate advances bill to end record-breaking government shutdown
In a pivotal move to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, seven Senate Democrats and one independent joined Republicans on Sunday night to advance legislation aimed at reopening the federal government. The shutdown, which began on October 1, has left nearly a million federal workers without pay and disrupted critical services across the nation. The stopgap measure, which passed a crucial 60-40 procedural vote, would temporarily fund the government until January 30, 2026, and reinstate federal employees with back pay.
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Once a sure thing, Australia’s bid to host COP31 falters amid deadlock with Turkey
As the COP30 climate summit unfolds in Belém, Brazil, a high-stakes diplomatic standoff is brewing between Australia and Turkey over the hosting rights for COP31 next year. Both nations are steadfast in their ambitions, with neither willing to concede, leaving the decision unresolved as the current summit nears its conclusion. If no agreement is reached by the end of this week, the hosting duties will default to Bonn, Germany, the headquarters of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Australia initially proposed a compelling joint bid with Pacific nations, emphasizing the region’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and the opportunity to showcase the tangible impacts of climate change. This move was seen as both a strategic geopolitical effort to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Pacific and a demonstration of Australia’s commitment to its neighbors. However, Turkey has remained resolute in its bid, complicating Australia’s plans.
Despite Australia’s confidence in securing support, the negotiations have hit a snag. Critics argue that Australia’s climate leadership credentials are undermined by its status as the world’s largest coal exporter and one of the highest per capita emitters. While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged ambitious emissions reduction targets, his administration’s recent extension of the North West Shelf gas project has raised eyebrows.
Turkey, on the other hand, has close ties with Russia and Saudi Arabia, nations historically resistant to climate action. This has led to concerns about the potential direction of COP31 under Turkish leadership. The stakes are high for both countries, with Australia facing domestic criticism over the estimated A$1 billion cost of hosting, while Turkey seeks to bolster its international standing.
As the clock ticks down, the outcome remains uncertain. The decision will not only determine the host of COP31 but also shape the future of global climate negotiations.
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Sharjah residents help put out fire in Al Mamzar area; honoured by authorities
Three Sharjah residents have been lauded by the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority for their courageous efforts in extinguishing a fire that erupted on a balcony in the Al Mamzar area. Abdulrahman Abdullah Al-Husaini, Abdullah Mohammed Ali Al-Maleji, and Khaled Mohammed Mohammed Al-Baili were recognized for their swift response, which played a crucial role in containing the flames and preventing the fire from spreading, thereby minimizing property damage. The authority shared images on social media platform X, showcasing the men receiving certificates in acknowledgment of their bravery and quick thinking. This incident highlights the importance of community involvement in emergency situations. In a related event, a citizen in Abu Dhabi was also honored by police for his prompt actions during a traffic accident on November 9, where he helped safeguard others on the road. Rashid Hamad Al Katbi received a certificate of appreciation from Lieutenant Colonel Saeed Ali Al Hassani, who praised his noble stance and cooperation with law enforcement in protecting lives and property. These acts of heroism underscore the significance of individual responsibility and community spirit in ensuring public safety.
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AUS filmmaker’s ‘Halal Dreams’ heads to New York Short Film Festival
Professor Mohammed Mamdouh’s critically acclaimed docudrama, ‘Halal Dreams,’ continues its remarkable journey across the global film festival circuit with its upcoming premiere at the New York Short Film Festival this November. The film, which has already garnered multiple international awards in the USA, Thailand, and Russia, is also slated for screenings at the Culver City Film Festival in Los Angeles, the London Global Film Awards, and the Sokcho International Food Film Festival in South Korea. Set against the backdrop of a frigid New York City night, ‘Halal Dreams’ poignantly portrays the life of an Egyptian halal cart worker striving to maintain a connection with his daughter while navigating the relentless pace of urban life. Mamdouh, an Assistant Professor at the American University of Sharjah’s College of Architecture, Art and Design, shared that the film explores themes of distance and belonging, emphasizing the enduring ties to loved ones and cherished memories. The film has earned widespread acclaim, including Best Docudrama awards from the Los Angeles Short Film Award, Ural Shorts International Film Festival in Russia, and the Bangkok Movie Awards, as well as an Exceptional Merit distinction from the Documentaries Without Borders International Film Festival in California. Notably, ‘Halal Dreams’ was one of only 15 films selected from over a thousand submissions for the Sokcho International Food Film Festival. This success follows Mamdouh’s earlier short film, ‘The Keyboard,’ written by his wife, Jumana Radi, which has been showcased at more than 30 international festivals and won nine awards, including Best Experimental Film honors in New York, Tokyo, and London. Beyond his filmmaking achievements, Mamdouh brings nearly two decades of experience in the UAE’s media industry, spanning film, advertising, brand management, and education. At AUS, he mentors aspiring visual storytellers, teaching courses in film production, screenwriting, AI, documentary film, and media systems.
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Higgins leaves official residence on last day as Irish president
On Monday evening, Michael D Higgins, the outgoing President of Ireland, marked the end of his 14-year tenure with a poignant farewell at Áras an Uachtaráin, his official residence in Dublin. Accompanied by his wife, Sabina Higgins, the couple was greeted by well-wishers who presented them with yellow roses, symbolizing friendship and joy. Members of the Sanctuary Runners, a group he patronized, formed a guard of honor outside the gates of Phoenix Park, adding a touch of solemnity to the occasion. The previous day, Bernese mountain dog owners gathered to bid farewell, a nod to the president’s beloved pets, including Misneach, who has been a part of his life during his presidency. Higgins, in a heartfelt statement, expressed his gratitude to the Irish people for their warmth and support, emphasizing his commitment to fostering an inclusive and creative society. As his portrait was removed from Leinster House, the stage was set for the inauguration of his successor, Catherine Connolly, at Dublin Castle on Tuesday.
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Host for UAE’s Sky News Arabia hugs RSF officer accused of inciting rape in el-Fasher
Sky News Arabia, a UAE-owned media outlet, has ignited controversy after one of its reporters, Tsabih Mubarak, visited el-Fasher, Sudan, and met with a Rapid Support Forces (RSF) officer accused of inciting sexual violence against Sudanese women. Mubarak’s presence in the war-torn city, recently captured by the RSF, has drawn widespread criticism, particularly given the paramilitary group’s documented atrocities, including mass killings, rape, and assaults on civilians. Satellite imagery and survivor testimonies have corroborated these abuses, painting a grim picture of the RSF’s actions in el-Fasher. Mubarak’s social media posts, which included images and videos of her interactions with locals and an RSF officer, have further fueled the backlash. In one video, she is seen smiling and giving a thumbs-up alongside a female RSF commander, Shiraz Khalid, who has been accused of encouraging militiamen to rape women in other regions of Sudan. The RSF, accused of genocide against the Masalit community, has also been documented using racist slurs against Black people. Mubarak’s visit, which likely required RSF approval, has been condemned by Sudanese figures and social media users, with some calling for the International Criminal Court (ICC) to take note. Sky News Arabia, a joint venture between the UK’s Sky Group and the UAE’s International Media Investments (IMI), has faced accusations of bias and complicity in the conflict. The UAE has been implicated in arming the RSF, with reports suggesting Emirati involvement in supplying weapons and establishing bases in Sudan. The ongoing war, which began in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 13 million people, with both the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) accused of war crimes.
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Seven Mayfair appoints Deja Vu Real Estate as exclusive sales partner for Mayfair Nexus
Seven Mayfair, a rising star in Dubai’s real estate sector, has announced Deja Vu Real Estate as the exclusive sales partner for its flagship residential project, Mayfair Nexus, situated in Wadi Al Safa 7. This strategic alliance underscores Seven Mayfair’s dedication to fostering communities rooted in transparency, trust, and innovative lifestyle design. Mayfair Nexus, featuring nine low-rise buildings and over 30 lifestyle amenities, epitomizes the developer’s vision of redefining modern community living in Dubai under its tagline, “Living, As You Imagined.”
Fauzaan Malkani, Managing Director of Seven Mayfair, emphasized the partnership’s alignment with the company’s core values. “Deja Vu Real Estate’s expertise and professionalism, coupled with their deep understanding of Dubai’s property market, make them the perfect partner for Mayfair Nexus. Together, we aim to deliver an unparalleled experience where every promise translates into performance,” he stated.
Established in 2007, Deja Vu Real Estate has earned a reputation as a leading property consultancy in Dubai, specializing in residential and investment advisory services. The firm will lead the sales strategy, broker engagement, and client outreach for Mayfair Nexus, leveraging nearly two decades of market insight to support Seven Mayfair’s growth trajectory.
Akif Shaikh, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Deja Vu Real Estate, expressed pride in the collaboration. “Mayfair Nexus is a testament to thoughtful design, lifestyle balance, and trust. This partnership unites our shared values of integrity and excellence, ensuring buyers experience confidence and clarity from their very first interaction,” he remarked.
Through this collaboration, Seven Mayfair reaffirms its commitment to transparency and quality, offering buyers and investors escrow-secured transactions, clear project timelines, and premium delivery standards. For further details, visit www.7mayfair.com.
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BBC News says it received legal threat from Trump over speech edit
BBC News has revealed that it received a legal threat from former US President Donald Trump regarding an edited segment in a documentary aired last year. The documentary, broadcast just a week before the 2024 US presidential election, spliced together two parts of a Trump speech, creating the impression that he was encouraging the January 2021 Capitol Hill riot. The BBC has since acknowledged that the edit was misleading and should have been handled with greater care. A BBC spokesperson stated that the broadcaster is reviewing the letter and will respond directly in due course. Samir Shah, chairman of the publicly-funded broadcaster, mentioned in an interview with BBC News that the organization is considering its response to Trump’s communication. When asked about the possibility of a lawsuit, Shah noted that Trump is known for his litigious nature, and the BBC should be prepared for all outcomes. The White House has not yet commented on the matter.
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Penthouses lead Dubai’s ultra-luxury property market
Dubai’s ultra-luxury property market is witnessing a remarkable transformation, with penthouses emerging as the preferred choice among the world’s wealthiest buyers. According to recent research data, penthouses now account for one in five homes listed for sale above Dh50 million, significantly outpacing villas and duplexes in the same elite price bracket. This trend underscores a paradigm shift in luxury living preferences, as sky-high residences redefine Dubai’s real estate narrative. The findings, released on Monday, highlight the growing allure of penthouses as the ultimate ‘trophy asset,’ combining exclusivity, panoramic views, and hotel-style amenities. eXp Dubai’s analysis reveals that 19.6% of properties priced above Dh50 million are penthouses, compared to just 4.3% for villas and 4.8% for duplexes. Dounia Fadi, Managing Director of eXp Dubai, noted that buyers are increasingly drawn to properties that offer privacy, architectural ambition, and a connection to Dubai’s iconic skyline. Developers are responding to this demand by designing high-rise projects with expansive penthouse offerings, often featuring bespoke interiors and multi-floor layouts. Industry experts predict that this focus on vertical luxury will continue, driven by land scarcity in prime neighborhoods and the city’s transformation into a global financial and cultural hub. Vidhyadharan Sivaprasad, Chairman of Condor Developers, emphasized that owning a penthouse in Dubai is now a statement of global sophistication and identity. With flexible residency rules, tax advantages, and world-class architecture, Dubai has cemented its position as a long-term lifestyle destination for ultra-wealthy investors. As the city’s skyline continues to evolve, penthouses have decisively climbed to the top of the luxury real estate hierarchy.