Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, has firmly rejected any potential political negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, asserting its right to self-defense. This declaration comes amid increasing pressure from the United States and Egypt on Lebanese leaders to engage in direct talks with Israel. Despite a ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024, tensions remain high, with Israel maintaining troops in southern Lebanon and continuing military strikes against Hezbollah positions. Hezbollah, which has refused to disarm since the Lebanese Civil War, criticized the Lebanese government’s efforts to dismantle its military capabilities, calling the disarmament push a ‘hasty decision’ that Israel has exploited. The group also reaffirmed its commitment to the ceasefire but warned against any threats to its sovereignty. Meanwhile, Israel has accused Hezbollah of attempting to rearm and has intensified its operations in Lebanon. The Lebanese government, under international pressure, is set to discuss the progress of its disarmament efforts, though Hezbollah and its allies remain staunchly opposed to such measures.
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Top things to do in the UAE this weekend: New brunches, fitness events, and dining experiences
The United Arab Emirates is set to offer an exhilarating weekend packed with diverse activities for locals and tourists alike. From indulgent brunches to unique fitness challenges and innovative dining experiences, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the places to be. Here’s a curated guide to the top events and experiences this weekend.
**Mindful Movement by Jumeirah**
Jumeirah has partnered with the globally acclaimed wellness brand Sanctum to host transformative sunrise and sunset sessions at Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Jumeirah Saadiyat Island. These 60-minute sessions, priced at Dh215 per person, combine movement, music, and mindfulness, guided by expert instructors. Enhanced by ice baths, tailored playlists, and complimentary wellness amenities, these sessions run from November to January, embodying Jumeirah’s ethos of ‘A Life Well Led.’**Black Dragon Brunch at TATTU Dubai**
TATTU Dubai, the latest addition to Dubai Marina’s dining scene, introduces the Black Dragon Brunch every Saturday from 12pm to 4pm. Located on Floor 74, this modern Asian culinary affair offers three curated packages: Soft (Dh495), House (Dh545), and Signature (Dh695). Each package promises a luxurious brunch experience with breathtaking 360-degree city views.**Route 66 Live at Pacific Groove**
Every Friday, Pacific Groove at Paramount Hotel hosts Route 66 Live, a vibrant evening inspired by the iconic American highway. From 7:30pm to 10:30pm, guests can enjoy a Surf and Turf Grill Sharing Menu starting at Dh339, with options for unlimited soft beverages (Dh419) or house beverages (Dh499). Advance bookings enjoy a 40% discount.**HYROX Class in the Snow**
For fitness enthusiasts, the Dubai Fitness Challenge presents a unique opportunity with the HYROX Class in the Snow at Ski Dubai. This one-hour session, priced at Dh130 per person, combines strength, endurance, and cardio in a sub-zero environment. Limited spots are available for the November 9 event at 6:30am.**Miss Lily’s New Caribbean Menu**
Miss Lily’s, Dubai’s favorite Caribbean restaurant, unveils a bold new menu crafted by Executive Chef Richie Richards and New York’s Chef Brittney ‘Stikxz’ Williams. The menu features standout dishes like Jerk Octopus, Tamarind Glazed Duck Breast, and Miss Lily’s Lobster Roll, blending Jamaican soul with New York energy. A refreshed beverage list completes the experience.This weekend in the UAE promises a blend of indulgence, wellness, and adventure, catering to every taste and interest.
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Labour pushed to allow Maccabi fans despite police warning on threat to Muslims
A decision by West Midlands Police to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending a football match in Birmingham has ignited a political storm and raised concerns about community safety. The ban, initially criticized by the British government as antisemitic, was based on a police assessment that identified significant risks to public order. Documents obtained by Middle East Eye reveal that authorities concluded there was a ‘medium risk to local Muslim communities’ and a ‘high risk to away supporters,’ citing a history of violent and racist behavior among some Maccabi fans. The police also noted fears expressed by various communities about potential attacks and the impact on social cohesion. The controversy deepened when Dutch police informed West Midlands Police that over 200 Maccabi fans involved in violent incidents in Amsterdam were linked to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and were ‘highly organized’ and ‘intent on causing serious violence.’ Despite government criticism, the ban was upheld, with over 700 officers deployed to manage the match and planned pro-Palestine protests. Critics, including MP Jeremy Corbyn, accused the government of distorting facts for political gain, while independent MP Iqbal Mohamed defended the ban as a necessary measure for public safety. The incident highlights the complex interplay between sports, politics, and community relations in a tense geopolitical climate.
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Sonichive wins Superbrands 2025 award
Sonichive, a trailblazer in modern workplace design, has been awarded the prestigious Superbrands 2025 accolade, cementing its status among the UAE’s most iconic brands. Known for its innovative, eco-friendly soundproof office pods, Sonichive has revolutionized workplace environments across the Middle East. The Superbrands Awards, a globally recognized program celebrating brand excellence, hosted its 2025 UAE edition on November 5, bringing together industry leaders from aviation, retail, technology, real estate, F&B, and lifestyle sectors. This year, Sonichive joined the ranks of esteemed brands like Emirates, ADNOC, and Starbucks, recognized for its exceptional reputation, performance, and consumer trust. Sonichive’s soundproof pods, crafted from aviation-grade aluminum and low-carbon polymers, combine sustainability, durability, and mobility. Designed to foster focus and creativity, these pods cater to private work, meetings, content creation, and collaborative activities, eliminating the need for structural renovations. As the world’s leading soundproof pod supplier, Sonichive provides tailored acoustic solutions to corporates, startups, co-working spaces, malls, and public venues. The award was accepted by Sonichive’s Directors, Aneez Arakkal and Abbas Thirunavaya, alongside Operations Manager Bernadine Kamdin and Abdi Rahman Nooh. This recognition underscores Sonichive’s commitment to enhancing workplace wellness, productivity, and sustainability. With plans for continued innovation and regional expansion, Sonichive is redefining the future of adaptable, eco-conscious workspaces in the UAE and beyond.
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Seasons of Life
As Hong Kong singer Pakho Chau celebrates his 40th birthday, he is not only expanding his career within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area but also embarking on a transformative life journey. In a recent interview, Chau shared his personal story and reflected on the evolution of Cantopop, a genre that has shaped his musical identity. Chau’s career, which began in the early 2000s, has seen him rise to prominence in the Cantopop scene, known for his emotive ballads and dynamic performances. Now, as he steps into a new decade, Chau is exploring opportunities beyond music, including ventures in the Greater Bay Area, a region rapidly becoming a cultural and economic hub. His reflections on Cantopop highlight the genre’s resilience and adaptability, evolving with the times while maintaining its unique identity. Chau’s journey serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of reinvention and the enduring appeal of Cantopop.
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Vivian Kong on National Games: ‘showcasing our city to the world’
At the Greater Bay Area Conference 2025, Hong Kong’s renowned fencing champion, Vivian Kong Man-wai, expressed her aspirations for the upcoming National Games. Kong emphasized her hope that the event would not only bring joy and health to participants but also serve as a platform to highlight the unique charm of Hong Kong to a global audience. She encouraged everyone to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, find happiness in their passion for sports, and take pride in representing their city on an international stage. Kong’s remarks underscored the significance of the National Games as both a celebration of athletic excellence and an opportunity to promote cultural and urban pride.
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Sharjah schools urged to involve parents early for better child development
Educational experts and officials in Sharjah have underscored the importance of early parental involvement in addressing students’ behavioral and academic challenges. Speaking at a panel titled “Family and Education… A Partnership to Shape the Future” during the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025), they highlighted the critical role of collaboration between schools and families in fostering children’s wellbeing and success. The session, organized by the Sharjah Emirate Advisory Council, featured insights from members of the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC), sociologists, and education specialists. Dr. Alaa Al Taie, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Sharjah, emphasized that a child’s emotional expression and resilience are rooted in their home environment, but schools must proactively identify and address early signs of difficulties. “Schools should engage families at the first indication of a problem, not when it’s too late. Parental involvement is essential for resolving issues effectively,” she stated. Dr. Ahmed Saleh Al Naqbi, a member of the Sharjah Consultative Council, stressed the need for transparency between schools and parents, warning that withholding information out of hesitation or fear can exacerbate risks. “Early dialogue helps us prevent rather than react,” he said. Saeed Matar Al Tuniji, Chairman of the Family Affairs Committee at the SCC, added that such collaboration lays the foundation for future generations. “We are shaping individuals who can face life’s challenges. Families, educators, and the media must work together,” he noted. Al Tuniji also addressed the impact of technology and artificial intelligence on children, urging schools and parents to guide students in safe and balanced usage. The 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, themed “Tales of Letters,” continues to promote reading, education, and cross-disciplinary dialogue, featuring over 2,000 publishers and numerous sessions with global experts. To enhance accessibility, the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has expanded transport services in coordination with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), introducing new bus and marine routes connecting Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman to the Expo Centre Sharjah.
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Ancient boats, blue Qurans: How UAE’s National Museum is building future for its past
The Zayed National Museum, set to open on December 3, 2025, on Saadiyat Island, promises to redefine the museum experience by integrating sight, sound, and scent into its permanent exhibits. Designed as one of the first national museums globally to offer such a multi-sensory journey, it aims to immerse visitors in the UAE’s rich history and cultural heritage, rooted in the values of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The museum’s director, Dr. Peter Magee, emphasizes that it is not just a repository of artefacts but a living space for learning, reflection, and a sense of belonging. Visitors will traverse Al Masar Garden, a 600-meter outdoor gallery that connects desert, oasis, and urban landscapes, before exploring six permanent galleries housing over 1,500 objects. Interactive features like “smart glass” technology, large-scale projections, and cinematic soundscapes enhance the experience. The Through Our Nature gallery, for instance, uses a seven-screen immersive environment to envelop visitors in the UAE’s natural landscapes, from desert winds to sea rhythms. Children can engage with transparent interactive screens to explore native flora and fauna. The museum also pioneers conservation efforts, including the reconstruction of a 4,000-year-old Magan Boat using traditional techniques and modern science. Other highlights include the preservation of the ninth-century Blue Qur’an and the 8,000-year-old Abu Dhabi Pearl. Through the Zayed National Museum Research Fund, the institution supports archaeological and historical research, fostering local expertise and reshaping understanding of the UAE’s past. The museum will also host temporary exhibitions, performances, workshops, and youth programs, extending its reach to schools and communities nationwide. Dr. Magee describes the opening as a defining moment for Abu Dhabi and the UAE, a realization of a national vision to connect generations with the nation’s history and enduring values.
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The frontier at the heart of Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions
The longstanding border dispute between Pakistan and Afghanistan, centered on the Durand Line, has reignited tensions between the two nations. The Taliban-led Afghan administration refuses to recognize the 2,600-kilometer border, labeling it as ‘imaginary,’ while Pakistan asserts its international legitimacy. The Durand Line, established in the late 19th century by British diplomat Sir Mortimer Durand, divides Pashtun communities and separates Afghanistan from the sea. Despite Islamabad’s efforts to fortify the border with trenches and fencing, Kabul has consistently condemned these measures. The porous border facilitates both informal crossings and vital trade, with Pakistan being Afghanistan’s largest trading partner. However, recent closures have resulted in significant economic losses, estimated at $50 million since October 12, 2025. Security concerns have escalated since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of harboring armed groups, including the Pakistani Taliban (TTP). In December 2024, Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan’s Paktika province, targeting alleged terrorist hideouts, reportedly killed nearly 50 people. The Taliban denies these accusations and rejects the border as a colonial relic. Recent clashes in October 2025, which began with explosions in Kabul, led to over 70 deaths and hundreds of injuries. A fragile ceasefire brokered by Turkey and Qatar has temporarily halted violence, but negotiations in Istanbul have yet to yield a lasting agreement. Talks are set to resume, with both sides warning that failure to reach a deal could reignite conflict.
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Trump unveils deals to lower US weight-loss drug prices
In a significant move to address the rising costs of pharmaceuticals, US President Donald Trump has announced agreements with major drug manufacturers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to reduce the prices of popular weight-loss medications. The deals, unveiled at the White House, aim to make obesity treatments more affordable for Americans, particularly those enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid. Under the new arrangements, consumers will pay between $245 and $350 per month for drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, which are part of the GLP-1 class of medications used to treat diabetes and obesity. Without insurance, these drugs often cost over $1,000 monthly. The agreements will expand access to these medications for Medicare beneficiaries, with an estimated 10% eligible to pay just $50 per month. Medicaid enrollees will see phased access based on state participation. Additionally, Eli Lilly will benefit from a three-year tariff exemption as part of the deal. The Trump administration has also launched TrumpRx, a government-run website set to debut by January, where these drugs will be sold at discounted prices. Wegovy and Zepbound will initially cost $350 per month on average, dropping to $250 within two years. Eli Lilly’s orforglipron will be priced at $149 for the lowest dose, while Zepbound will start at $299, pending FDA approval. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized the importance of these agreements in combating obesity, which he termed the leading driver of chronic disease in the US. However, he stressed that medication alone is not a cure-all, advocating for lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. This initiative follows months of negotiations and pressure from the Trump administration, which has already secured similar deals with Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and EMD Serono.