The UAE’s transformation into a global tourism hub is a story of vision, dedication, and royal leadership. In 1988, the country welcomed its first 1,000 tourists, a milestone marked by personal touches from Emirati leaders. Nasser Al Nowais, then head of the Abu Dhabi National Hospitality (ADNH) group, recalled the challenges of attracting visitors to the emirate. “We had no tourists in Abu Dhabi,” he said. Determined to change this, his team attended a travel fair in Berlin, successfully bringing in the first wave of international tourists. These visitors were personally greeted at the airport, escorted to hotels, and shown the city’s attractions, leaving with lasting memories of Emirati hospitality. This initiative was deeply rooted in the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, who encouraged the promotion of Emirati culture and cuisine. Inspired by Sheikh Zayed, Nasser laid the groundwork for what would become one of the world’s most vibrant tourism industries, eventually co-founding Rotana Hotels, which now manages over 80 properties globally. Gerald Lawless, a key figure in Dubai’s hospitality sector, shared anecdotes of the royal family’s hands-on involvement. He recounted a 1am call from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who arrived to inspect the Jumeirah Beach Hotel for an executive meeting. “He gave me a full hour to be ready,” Gerald chuckled, highlighting the royal’s attention to detail. Gerald also spearheaded iconic marketing campaigns, such as Roger Federer and Andre Agassi’s tennis match on the Burj Al Arab helipad, which catapulted Dubai onto the global stage. Both Nasser and Gerald emphasized that the UAE’s success lies in its people. “Treat your team with respect, and everything else follows,” Nasser said. Gerald echoed this, sharing Jumeirah’s golden rules: always greet guests with a smile, never say ‘no’ as the first response, and treat colleagues with respect. Today, Abu Dhabi welcomes millions of visitors annually, a testament to the enduring legacy of the UAE’s royal visionaries.
博客
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Trial dropped for man who stabbed girl in West End
A 33-year-old man, Ioan Pintaru, who stabbed an 11-year-old Australian girl in a random knife attack in London’s West End last summer, will not face trial for attempted murder, a court has ruled. Pintaru, a Romanian national with no fixed address, had previously pleaded guilty to wounding the girl with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and possession of a knife. However, he denied the charge of attempted murder, which was set to be tried at the Old Bailey. During a brief hearing on Tuesday, Judge Richard Marks KC announced that the prosecution would not proceed with the attempted murder charge, and sentencing is now scheduled for December 16. The victim, who was on holiday with her mother at the time of the attack, sustained multiple injuries to her face, shoulder, wrist, and neck. Pintaru, currently held in a high-security hospital in Liverpool, was not required to attend the hearing. The victim’s family, based in Australia, will be able to join the sentencing hearing via video link. No explanation was provided in court for the decision to drop the trial. The attack occurred on August 12, 2024, when Pintaru allegedly approached the girl outside a Lego store, placed her in a headlock, and stabbed her eight times. Bystanders intervened, disarmed the attacker, and held him until police arrived. Forensic officers later combed the scene for evidence. The case has drawn attention to the issue of random violence in London, though further details on the prosecution’s decision remain undisclosed.
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Pink About It: Starting conversations, changing lives
Breast cancer continues to be the most prevalent cancer among women globally, with projections indicating a staggering 40% increase in cases by 2050. This alarming trend underscores the critical importance of awareness, timely screening, and education in combating the disease. Early detection remains the cornerstone of effective treatment, offering the best chance for a cure and a healthy future. Medical experts emphasize the life-saving potential of regular screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, which can identify abnormalities before they escalate into serious conditions. Dr. Pranay Taori, a Specialist in Medical Oncology at Aster Hospital, Qusais, highlights that early-stage cancers are often more manageable, with better treatment outcomes. He urges individuals to prioritize routine screenings based on age and risk factors, encouraging friends and family to do the same. Beyond detection, modern surgical advancements provide hope and improved quality of life for patients. Dr. Afsal Muhammed, a Specialist in Surgical Oncology, explains that contemporary techniques focus on patient comfort and long-term health, offering options like breast-conserving surgery and reconstruction. Emotional and psychological support also plays a vital role in the journey. Dr. Pranab Karipody Prabhakaran, a Consultant in Medical Oncology, reassures patients that they are not alone, with access to support groups, counselling, and community resources. Lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, further contribute to reducing risk. Dr. Nilusha Vadhwania, a Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, emphasizes the cumulative benefits of consistent healthy habits. Personalized screening plans, tailored to individual risk factors, are essential for proactive health management. Dr. Anitha Sophia Biju advises consulting healthcare providers for age and risk-based guidelines. Community support networks also offer strength and encouragement to patients and their families. Dr. Preetha Vinoj underscores the power of shared experiences in fostering hope and resilience. The journey through breast cancer is marked by courage, conversation, and connection, transforming fear into triumph. The colour pink symbolizes not just awareness but a promise of support, compassion, and renewal. Together, we can inspire new beginnings and celebrate every step forward.
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French senators say security at the Louvre is ‘not in line’ with modern standards and demand action
A delegation of French senators conducted an inspection of the Louvre Museum on Tuesday, concluding that the institution’s security measures fall short of contemporary standards. This assessment follows a high-profile heist on October 19, where thieves stole jewels worth €88 million ($102 million) in under eight minutes. The intruders reportedly used a basket lift to scale the museum’s façade, forced open a window, breached display cases, and escaped undetected. Two suspects were subsequently arrested on Sunday and are currently under police interrogation. Senator Laurent Lafon, who chairs the Senate’s Culture Committee, emphasized the inadequacy of the Louvre’s security systems, stating, ‘We all noticed that the security equipment is not suitable for a 21st-century museum such as the Louvre. It is our flagship, it must be exemplary, and today we cannot describe the security conditions at the Louvre as exemplary.’ Lafon highlighted the need for significant improvements, particularly addressing vulnerabilities in outdoor surveillance cameras, though he refrained from divulging specific details due to confidentiality concerns. The senators have called for the expedited implementation of the ‘Louvre New Renaissance’ plan, a decade-long initiative launched earlier this year aimed at modernizing the museum’s infrastructure, reducing overcrowding, and creating a dedicated gallery for the Mona Lisa by 2031. The project, estimated to cost up to €800 million ($933 million), is currently under discussion as part of France’s 2026 budget deliberations.
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A federal agent’s daring plan: Recruit Maduro’s pilot to turn on the Venezuelan leader
In a clandestine operation reminiscent of a Cold War spy thriller, U.S. federal agent Edwin Lopez attempted to persuade Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s chief pilot, General Bitner Villegas, to divert Maduro’s plane to a location where U.S. authorities could arrest him. The plot, which unfolded over 16 months, involved encrypted messaging, secret meetings, and promises of immense wealth for the pilot. Despite Villegas providing his cell number as a sign of potential interest, the plan ultimately failed. The scheme highlights the U.S. government’s persistent efforts to oust Maduro, whom it accuses of undermining Venezuela’s democracy and aiding drug traffickers and terrorist groups. The operation, which began under President Joe Biden and continued under Donald Trump, also included the seizure of two of Maduro’s luxury jets in the Dominican Republic. Lopez, a seasoned Homeland Security Investigations agent, retired in July but continued his efforts to sway Villegas, even offering a $50 million reward for Maduro’s capture. However, Villegas remained loyal, publicly reaffirming his allegiance to Maduro in a televised appearance. The failed plot underscores the complexities and risks of U.S. efforts to destabilize Maduro’s regime.
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Trump, Japan’s Takaichi sign agreement on critical minerals, rare earths supply
In a significant diplomatic meeting in Tokyo, US President Donald Trump and Japan’s first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, solidified their nations’ partnership through agreements on critical minerals, rare earths, and military cooperation. The meeting, held at the Akasaka Palace, underscored the strategic alliance between the two countries amid growing regional tensions with China. Trump lauded Takaichi’s commitment to accelerating Japan’s military buildup, including plans to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP, a move aimed at countering China’s assertiveness. Takaichi, in turn, expressed her intention to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in brokering ceasefires in Cambodia, Thailand, and between Israel and Hamas. The leaders signed a landmark agreement to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals, essential for technologies ranging from smartphones to fighter jets. The deal includes joint projects in magnets and batteries, as well as the development of strategic mineral stockpiles. Takaichi gifted Trump a putter once owned by the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, a golf bag signed by Japanese major winner Hideki Matsuyama, and a gold leaf golf ball, symbolizing the personal rapport between the leaders. The meeting also evoked memories of Trump’s close relationship with Abe, who was assassinated in 2022. Takaichi’s gestures and the agreements signed are expected to bolster her political standing domestically, despite her coalition government’s narrow parliamentary majority. Trump’s visit to Japan concluded with a tour of the US naval base in Yokosuka, highlighting the US military’s presence in the region. He will next travel to South Korea for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, aiming to resolve the ongoing trade war between the world’s two largest economies.
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China’s milu deer population grows 200-fold since 1985
China’s remarkable efforts to revive the milu deer population have been celebrated at the 2025 International Symposium on Milu and Ecological Conservation in Beijing. The event, held from October 24 to 25 as part of the Zhongguancun Forum series, brought together over 100 experts from nine countries, including zoologists, ecologists, and conservationists. Since the reintroduction program began in 1985 in collaboration with the United Kingdom, the milu deer population has surged from a mere 77 to approximately 15,000—a staggering 200-fold increase. Initially confined to two reserves in Beijing and Jiangsu province, the deer now inhabit over 100 breeding populations across 27 provinces. Moreover, wild populations have flourished, with six groups totaling more than 6,000 animals thriving in various regions. This extensive network is hailed as the world’s largest and most comprehensive system for milu conservation, setting a global benchmark for wildlife reintroduction efforts.
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Global experts praise China’s ecological achievements at a seminar in Beijing
A high-profile seminar on forestry carbon sequestration concluded in Beijing on October 28, 2025, drawing widespread acclaim from global participants for its comprehensive showcase of China’s ecological advancements. The event, spanning two weeks, was jointly hosted by China’s Ministry of Commerce and Beijing Forestry University, attracting 24 delegates from six Asian and African nations. The program seamlessly integrated theoretical discussions on China’s ecological civilization policies with immersive field visits to key ecological sites in Hubei province, offering participants a firsthand look at the integration of ecological preservation into regional development strategies. Dombeu Kaam Rene Maurice, an official from Cameroon with the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization, lauded the seminar’s balanced approach, stating, ‘The insights gained here could revolutionize our approach to combating climate change.’ He also emphasized China’s strategic long-term planning in ecological governance, noting the alignment of ecological targets with the nation’s five-year plans. Karen Chow, a representative from Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, highlighted the importance of sustained investment in environmental protection, citing Hubei’s exemplary environmental stewardship as a source of inspiration. Senaratne Gamaralalage Priyantha Bandula, a forestry official from Sri Lanka, acknowledged the seminar’s influence on his country’s perspective on carbon trading and sustainable industrial development, praising China’s leadership in advancing wood-based industries while maintaining environmental integrity. Looking ahead, participants expressed keen interest in fostering deeper collaboration with China in areas such as carbon project development, technical training, and sustainable forest management, viewing the seminar as a pivotal step toward impactful cross-border climate initiatives in the Global South.
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Debate on dangerous ski training courses flares at the start of Olympic season
Mikaela Shiffrin, the renowned American skier, returned to the slopes with heightened caution after a severe crash last year left her with a punctured abdomen and damaged abdominal muscles. Her injuries, sustained during a World Cup giant slalom race, underscored the inherent risks of both competitive skiing and training. Shiffrin’s experience is not unique. French skier Alexis Pinturault echoed similar concerns, highlighting the unsafe conditions often faced during training sessions. The issue of safety in Alpine skiing gained renewed attention following the tragic death of Italian skier Matteo Franzoso in a preseason training accident in Chile. Franzoso’s death, the third among young Italian skiers in less than a year, has sparked urgent calls for improved safety measures. Shiffrin, who battled post-traumatic stress disorder after her crash, emphasized the need to reassess the risks athletes face. She argued that while skiing inherently involves danger, it is unacceptable to dismiss life-threatening risks as part of the sport. Training courses, often lacking the safety standards of race courses due to financial constraints, pose significant hazards. Smaller crews, fewer safety nets, and limited medical resources exacerbate the risks. Sofia Goggia, the 2018 Olympic downhill champion, likened high-level skiing to Formula 1 or MotoGP, emphasizing the extreme speeds and dangers involved. While increased safety netting is a partial solution, it is not a panacea. The Italian Winter Sports Federation has urged the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) to establish dedicated training courses with safety standards akin to those of World Cup races. FIS President Johan Eliasch acknowledged the need for improved safety measures, including better scheduling, more medical staff, and enhanced course preparation. However, implementing these changes remains a challenge, particularly for smaller federations with limited resources. The responsibility for safer training courses, according to Austrian coach Roland Assinger, cannot rest solely on local ski resorts. A coordinated effort among national federations is essential. As the skiing community grapples with these issues, the question of who will fund the necessary safety upgrades remains unanswered.
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Global businesses gather at Hong Kong intl lighting fair, tech light expo
The Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition) and the 10th Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo commenced on Monday, drawing approximately 3,000 businesses from around the globe. Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the event underscores innovation and smart design in the lighting industry. A highlight of the fair is the ‘Connected Lighting Pavilion,’ which features award-winning designs and products from renowned brands in Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, and other countries. These exhibits demonstrate cutting-edge lighting solutions that have been implemented in major global projects. The expo, running from Tuesday to Friday, will display a diverse array of outdoor, commercial, and industrial lighting products and technologies, all aimed at advancing smart city initiatives. This gathering not only serves as a platform for industry leaders to showcase their latest innovations but also fosters international collaboration in the lighting sector.