The family of the late Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has refuted claims that some of their relatives were permitted to exit the Gaza Strip following a request from Turkey. Abdul Salam Haniyeh, the eldest son of the deceased leader, categorically denied these reports in a statement to Middle East Eye, asserting that no arrangements or discussions regarding such a move had taken place. This rebuttal comes in response to earlier reports suggesting that Israel had allowed at least 66 Palestinians and Turkish citizens to leave Gaza earlier this month, facilitated by a bilateral agreement between Israel and Turkey. While some of those who departed reportedly shared the Haniyeh surname, Abdul Salam clarified that none were directly related to his father. He dismissed the news as false and aimed at sowing confusion. The reported deal followed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in early October, brokered in part by Turkey. Turkey had maintained longstanding ties with Ismail Haniyeh, who led Hamas’s political bureau until his assassination by Israel in Tehran in July 2024. An Israeli decision to permit Haniyeh’s relatives to leave Gaza would be unexpected, given the Israeli military’s April 2024 airstrike that killed three of his sons and four grandchildren in Gaza. Additionally, Haniyeh’s sister, Sabah al-Salem Haniyeh, was arrested around the same time in Tel Sheva, a southern Israeli town. Middle East Eye, known for its independent coverage of the Middle East and North Africa, continues to provide in-depth analysis of the region’s complex geopolitical landscape.
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SetupMate launches Business Gateway Package to simplify company formation for global entrepreneurs
SetupMate Management Consultancy, a prominent UAE-based firm specializing in business and banking advisory services, has introduced its innovative “Business Gateway Package.” This comprehensive solution aims to simplify company formation in Dubai, making it more accessible, efficient, and affordable for startups, small businesses, and international investors. The package, priced at a flat fee of Dh14,900 until December 31, includes essential services such as business establishment and licensing, visa issuance, VAT or corporate tax consultancy, corporate bank account support, and a personal counseling session with CEO Rishi Raj Singh Rathore. Additional value-added services are designed to streamline operations and ensure a seamless startup journey. Dubai’s favorable regulations, tax-free zones, and world-class infrastructure continue to attract entrepreneurs globally, reinforcing its status as a leading investment hub. SetupMate’s initiative aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming a global startup hub, supporting innovation across various sectors. The company’s success in the UAE has also led to international expansion, with a new office recently opened in London, further solidifying its role as a trusted partner for entrepreneurs worldwide.
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Commercial Bank of Dubai achieves record net profit and surpasses Dh100 billion in loans
The Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) has achieved a historic milestone, reporting a record net profit before tax of Dh2.83 billion for the first nine months of 2025, a 15.6% increase compared to the same period last year. Net profit after tax stood at Dh2.58 billion, marking the bank’s 21st consecutive quarter of profit growth—a remarkable feat in the UAE banking sector. Additionally, CBD’s net loans surpassed Dh100 billion for the first time, reflecting a 13.1% increase since the end of 2024. The bank’s total assets surged to Dh163.4 billion, up 16.6% year-on-year, while customer deposits grew 14.9% to Dh112.1 billion, with low-cost CASA deposits accounting for 51% of the total. Dr. Bernd van Linder, CEO of CBD, emphasized the significance of these achievements, attributing them to the bank’s resilient strategy and customer-focused approach despite global challenges such as the pandemic, volatile interest rates, and supply chain disruptions. CBD’s return on equity after tax reached 22.3%, placing it among the top performers in the industry. Asset quality also improved, with the non-performing loan ratio dropping to 3.5%, down 146 basis points from the previous year. The bank’s cost of risk declined to 0.49%, and provision coverage stood at 98.93%, rising to 140.83% when including collateral. CBD’s transformation agenda continues to deliver results, with the bank achieving its highest SME Net Promoter Score in over three years and receiving multiple industry awards, including Best Digitisation Initiatives and Best Mobile Banking Services. The bank remains committed to national initiatives, supporting programs like Aani payments, the UAE Central Bank’s Digital Currency project, and the Financial Infrastructure Transformation Program. CBD also participated in global forums such as SIBOS 2025 and the BAFT Global Councils Forum, showcasing its dedication to innovation and thought leadership. With a capital adequacy ratio of 15.84% and a Tier 1 ratio of 14.70%, CBD maintains a strong capital position well above regulatory requirements. As it enters its sixth decade, the bank continues to support the nation’s ambitions through disciplined growth, digital innovation, and customer-centric strategies.
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Fitness coach on wearable tech and wellness: ‘Know your numbers, but also know your body’
As wearable technology continues to dominate the fitness landscape in 2025, Diren Kartal, a renowned fitness coach and speaker, emphasizes the importance of balancing data-driven insights with intuitive self-awareness. Kartal, who is set to return to Dubai Active 2025, shares his journey from a football player in Turkey’s Beşiktaş youth academy to a global fitness influencer. His philosophy revolves around consistency, discipline, and the transformative power of fitness on both the body and mind. Kartal’s experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has profoundly shaped his approach, teaching him humility, patience, and resilience. He believes that while wearable devices like smartwatches and trackers can gamify fitness and enhance accountability, they should not replace the intrinsic understanding of one’s body. Kartal also highlights the challenges of balancing fitness, business growth, and fatherhood, advocating for structured routines and realistic goals. At Dubai Active, he aims to inspire attendees with energy, laughter, and practical advice, encouraging them to view fitness as empowerment rather than punishment. Kartal debunks common fitness myths, such as the necessity of extreme diets or overnight results, and stresses the importance of mental wellness in physical training. He advises beginners to start simple, build consistency, and avoid comparing themselves to others. For long-term success, Kartal’s non-negotiable principle is consistency—showing up regularly, even when motivation wanes. He also shares his excitement about emerging fitness trends like cold plunges, saunas, and functional training, while reminding everyone that the basics—strength training, nutrition, sleep, and community—remain timeless.
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First Abu Dhabi Bank profit surges 24% to Dh16b as AI powers record 9-month growth
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) has announced unprecedented financial results for the first nine months of 2025, with a 24% surge in net profit to Dh16.02 billion. This marks the highest earnings ever recorded by the bank for this period. The third quarter alone saw a 21% increase in net profit, reaching Dh5.39 billion. Loans and advances grew by 13% year-to-date to Dh596 billion, while customer deposits rose 8% to Dh848 billion. Total assets climbed 14% to Dh1.38 trillion, with capital and liquidity ratios comfortably exceeding regulatory requirements.
The bank’s robust performance is attributed to broad-based growth across all divisions, driven by strong client activity, diversified revenue streams, and significant productivity gains from its AI-driven transformation strategy. Operating income increased by 16% to Dh27.65 billion, supported by sustained business momentum. Net interest income rose 2% to Dh14.96 billion, while non-interest income surged 37% to Dh12.7 billion, accounting for nearly half of total revenue.
Group CEO Hana Al Rostamani emphasized the success of FAB’s diversification strategy and its growing international presence. The bank is expanding its footprint in Europe, Turkey, and Nigeria, with plans to open a new branch in India. Al Rostamani highlighted the transformative impact of AI integration across operations, which has enhanced agility and efficiency. “By embedding intelligent technologies across the Group, we are redefining how we serve clients and driving long-term value creation,” she said.
Group CFO Lars Kramer noted the bank’s resilient margins and double-digit revenue growth across all divisions, supported by a strong balance sheet. FAB’s commitment to sustainable finance was also underscored, with the issuance of its inaugural Blue Bond and Low Carbon Energy Bond. International operations contributed 17% of Group revenue, with loans and deposits from overseas markets rising 23% and 18%, respectively.
FAB continues to lead in AI-enabled transformation, deploying 18 live AI agents across functions such as trade operations, customer service, and finance analytics. These systems have doubled processing capacity and reduced turnaround times by up to 50%, solidifying FAB’s position as a pioneer in technology-driven banking excellence. Analysts predict strong momentum for FAB as it enters the final quarter of 2025, with high confidence in sustaining its growth trajectory into 2026 and beyond.
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UAE’s first battery-swapping station for bikes to power greener, faster deliveries
Abu Dhabi has taken a significant leap toward sustainable urban mobility with the launch of the UAE’s first battery-swapping station for electric motorbikes. This groundbreaking initiative, a collaboration between Adnoc Distribution and Terra Tech Ltd., is set to transform last-mile delivery operations by making them cleaner, faster, and more cost-efficient. Located at one of Adnoc’s flagship service stations, the facility allows delivery riders to swap depleted batteries for fully charged ones in seconds, drastically reducing downtime and emissions. This innovation aligns with Abu Dhabi’s ambitious goal of having 50% of vehicles electric by 2040 and the UAE’s broader target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Husam Zammar, founder of Terra Tech Ltd., emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership, stating that it provides access to Adnoc’s extensive service station network, ensuring widespread adoption of the technology. The initiative not only reduces operational costs for delivery riders but also significantly lowers the sector’s carbon footprint. By integrating battery-swapping technology into Adnoc’s nationwide infrastructure, the project sets the stage for a nationwide rollout, paving the way for greener cities, efficient delivery ecosystems, and smarter transport solutions. This move exemplifies how traditional energy networks are evolving to support a cleaner, technology-driven future.
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Look: Global Village mascots hand out freebies, gift boxes to passengers at DXB
In a heartwarming gesture to mark the commencement of its 30th season, Global Village brought smiles to the faces of 1,000 passengers arriving at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport (DXB). The iconic mascots of Global Village—Zoya, Waleef, and Ozka—were stationed at the baggage claim area, distributing specially curated gift boxes to unsuspecting travelers. Each box, adorned with the inviting message ‘Pick me up! I’m your welcome gift,’ contained exclusive memorabilia from the landmark season, including themed water bottles and tote bags. The mascots not only handed out the gifts but also engaged with passengers, posing for photos and creating a festive atmosphere. This initiative, part of the celebrations for Global Village’s 30th anniversary, highlights the destination’s commitment to spreading joy and creating memorable experiences for visitors. The event underscores Dubai’s reputation as a city that welcomes travelers with warmth and creativity.
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Military and police patrol streets of Peru’s capital as state of emergency begins
LIMA, Peru — In a bold move to combat escalating crime, Peru’s newly inaugurated President José Jerí declared a state of emergency, effective Wednesday. The decree, which suspends several constitutional rights including freedom of assembly and protest, also imposes restrictions on everyday activities such as motorcycle travel and prison visits. Additionally, it permits power cuts in prison cells, except for essential lighting. This decision comes in the wake of violent protests demanding Jerí’s resignation, which resulted in one fatality and severe injuries to another civilian. Jerí assumed office on October 10 after lawmakers ousted his predecessor, Dina Boluarte, citing her failure to address the country’s crime surge. However, many Peruvians remain skeptical of the measure, recalling the ineffectiveness of similar emergency declarations under Boluarte’s administration. Manuel Timoteo, a resident of northern Lima, expressed his doubts, stating, “The soldiers go out for a few days, stand with their rifles on a corner, leave and everything remains the same.” Crime statistics reveal a troubling trend, with homicides increasing from 676 cases in 2017 to 2,082 in 2024, and extortion complaints skyrocketing from 2,305 in 2020 to 21,746 last year. Most victims are from the working class, highlighting the pervasive impact of crime on everyday life in Peru.
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US announces sanctions on Russia’s largest oil companies
The United States has unveiled a significant escalation in its sanctions regime against Russia, targeting the country’s two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil. The move, announced by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, aims to pressure Moscow into negotiating a peace deal in Ukraine. ‘Given President Putin’s refusal to end this senseless war, Treasury is sanctioning Russia’s two largest oil companies that fund the Kremlin’s war machine,’ Bessent stated. The sanctions come in response to Russia’s intensified military actions in Ukraine, including drone and missile strikes that claimed at least seven lives, including two children, on Wednesday. The US decision follows similar measures by the UK last week, which also targeted Rosneft and Lukoil, responsible for nearly half of Russia’s oil production. The announcement coincided with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s visit to the White House to discuss peace negotiations. Rutte is expected to present a 12-point plan formulated by European NATO allies and Kyiv, which includes freezing the current front lines, repatriating deported children, and establishing a prisoner exchange. The plan also proposes a war recovery fund for Ukraine, security pathways, and a clear route for Ukraine’s EU membership, alongside increased military aid and economic pressure on Russia. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has expressed frustration over the stalled peace talks, accusing Putin of not engaging honestly. Trump has previously supported proposals to freeze the conflict along current frontlines, stating, ‘Let it be cut the way it is. Stop fighting, stop killing people.’ However, Russia has rejected such proposals, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterating Moscow’s demand for Ukrainian troops to withdraw from the Donbas region. The US sanctions also aim to deter other nations from purchasing Russian oil, with lawmakers awaiting White House approval to enforce stricter measures. As the conflict continues, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for the US to supply long-range Tomahawk missiles, suggesting their deployment could compel Russia to negotiate.
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Jewish and Israeli figures urge world leaders to act over ‘unconscionable’ Israeli acts in Gaza
In a groundbreaking move, over 460 prominent Jewish figures and Israelis have issued an open letter urging the United Nations and global leaders to hold Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza. Released on Wednesday, the letter, signed by former Israeli officials, Jewish artists, and intellectuals, demands a focus on the ‘underlying conditions of occupation, apartheid, and the denial of Palestinian rights,’ which remain unaddressed in the current ceasefire agreement. This marks the first coordinated appeal of its kind since the ceasefire took effect on October 10. Notable signatories include Canadian author Naomi Klein, former Israeli peace negotiator Daniel Levy, actors Ilana Glazer and Hannah Einbinder, and Oscar-winning directors Jonathan Glazer and Yuval Abraham. The letter calls on the UN secretary general and world leaders to enforce international law, halt arms sales, impose sanctions, and ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza. Signatories also emphasized that solidarity with Palestinians is not a betrayal of Judaism but a fulfillment of its values, quoting Jewish teachings that ‘to destroy one life is to destroy an entire world.’ The letter reflects a significant shift in public opinion, with a recent Washington Post poll revealing that 61% of American Jews believe Israel has committed war crimes in Gaza. Former Knesset speaker Avram Burg described the situation as a ‘moment of rupture,’ stating that Israel’s actions conflict with his deepest human and Jewish values. While the ceasefire has brought temporary relief, the letter warns of its fragility and the escalating settler violence in the occupied West Bank. According to UN figures, 3,200 Palestinians have been wounded in settler attacks this year, with 71 incidents recorded in a single week in October. Since October 2023, Israeli attacks in Gaza have killed 68,216 Palestinians and wounded 170,361. Additionally, a Palestinian government office reported 80 ceasefire violations by Israel, resulting in 97 deaths and 230 injuries since the ceasefire began.