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  • Spirit, stamina and survival: Svitolina conquers Gauff in Dubai epic

    Spirit, stamina and survival: Svitolina conquers Gauff in Dubai epic

    In a monumental display of resilience and athletic prowess, Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina secured a hard-fought victory over American phenom Coco Gauff in the semifinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. The grueling encounter, which stretched to three hours and three minutes, culminated in a 6-4, 6-7 (13-15), 6-4 decision that showcased the finest elements of women’s tennis.

    The match reached its climax on Svitolina’s sixth match point, concluding with Gauff’s forehand return finding the net. An emotionally overwhelmed Svitolina immediately covered her face in disbelief after surviving what she described as a ‘high-intensity’ battle featuring ‘incredible shot-making’ from both competitors.

    This victory carries profound significance for the 29-year-old Ukrainian, who now stands one win away from securing her third Dubai title. A triumph in the final would place her alongside tennis legend Venus Williams as the second-most successful champion in the tournament’s history, trailing only Belgian great Justine Henin’s four titles.

    The path to victory was anything but straightforward. The match featured a spectacular 28-point second-set tiebreak where Gauff demonstrated remarkable composure, saving four match points to force a decisive third set. This resilience from the young American highlighted why she remains one of the sport’s most promising talents despite the semifinal setback.

    Svitolina now faces the challenge of physical and mental recovery before confronting world number five Jessica Pegula in Saturday’s final. The Ukrainian acknowledged Pegula’s formidable form after the American’s comeback victory against Amanda Anisimova in the other semifinal, emphasizing the need for peak physical condition given Dubai’s demanding playing conditions.

    For Gauff, the defeat marks another narrow loss to Svitolina following their Australian Open quarterfinal encounter just weeks earlier. Despite the disappointment, the world number four maintained perspective, noting her satisfaction with reaching the semifinals after initially aiming simply to win one match in the tournament.

    Svitolina’s achievement becomes more remarkable considering her recent return from maternity leave, with this final appearance representing her first in a WTA 1000 event in seven years—a testament to her dedication and the inspiring comeback she has engineered since becoming a mother.

  • Murky outlook for businesses after tariff ruling prompts countermoves by Trump

    Murky outlook for businesses after tariff ruling prompts countermoves by Trump

    The U.S. business community faces extended trade policy instability following a landmark Supreme Court decision that struck down presidential tariffs imposed under emergency powers. Despite the court’s ruling that President Donald Trump overstepped his authority, the administration immediately pledged to utilize alternative legal mechanisms to maintain import taxes, creating fresh uncertainty for American enterprises.

    Corporate leaders across multiple sectors expressed concern about the practical implications of the legal victory. While the Supreme Court determined that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not authorize presidential tariff imposition, the ruling affects only specific duties, leaving steel, aluminum, furniture, and cabinet tariffs intact. Within hours of the decision, President Trump announced plans to implement a comprehensive 10% tariff on all imports for 150 days while exploring additional trade remedies.

    Economic analysts warn that any potential relief from lowered tariffs may be negated by prolonged uncertainty. Michael Pearce of Oxford Economics noted, “With the administration likely to rebuild tariffs through other, more durable means, the overall tariffs rate may yet end up settling close to current levels.”

    The complex process of reclaiming an estimated $133-$175 billion in previously collected tariffs now deemed illegal favors large corporations with substantial legal resources, leaving small businesses and consumers unlikely to receive compensation. Industries including retail, technology, and agriculture have borne significant costs, with companies implementing price increases, supply chain diversification, and cost-cutting measures to offset tariff impacts.

    International trading partners reacted with skepticism to the development. Italian winemakers, European manufacturers, and Canadian exporters expressed concerns that alternative tariff mechanisms could maintain or exacerbate trade tensions. Lamberto Frescobaldi of Italian winemakers association UIV warned of “renewed uncertainty in commercial relations between Europe and the United States,” while ING economist Carsten Brzeski noted that alternative legal authority could produce identical or worse economic impacts.

    Business leaders across sectors emphasized the need for trade policy stability. Jonathan McHale of the Computer & Communications Industry Association stated, “With this decision behind us, we look forward to bringing more stability to trade policy,” echoing sentiments from retail, agricultural, and manufacturing representatives who have faced increased costs and operational challenges throughout the trade disputes.

  • Top-tier international schools drive 35% surge in Dubai villa prices

    Top-tier international schools drive 35% surge in Dubai villa prices

    Dubai’s residential real estate sector is experiencing a fundamental transformation as premium international schools emerge as the dominant factor driving capital appreciation in the villa market. According to comprehensive data from property advisory firm BlackBrick, established communities with superior educational access are significantly outperforming broader market trends.

    The Property Monitor Dynamic Price Index reveals that mature villa neighborhoods near top-tier international institutions are witnessing unprecedented price growth. Areas including Victory Heights, The Meadows, Jumeirah Islands, The Lakes, and The Greens have demonstrated the strongest appreciation metrics over the past twelve months, with some properties achieving remarkable 35% valuation increases.

    This trend reflects a structural shift in buyer behavior, with long-term resident families now dominating the villa segment and placing educational accessibility at the core of their property decisions. Industry analysts note that families are prioritizing convenience and lifestyle planning over short-term investment considerations, creating a more stable market foundation.

    Matthew Bate, Founder and CEO of BlackBrick, emphasized: ‘Dubai’s villa market is being driven by families planning five to ten years ahead, with education becoming a primary decision-making filter rather than a secondary consideration. School proximity is now materially influencing price performance as parents make property choices centered around the school run.’

    Victory Heights has emerged as a standout performer in this education-driven cycle, with non-renovated villas posting 25-35% annual appreciation. Even renovated properties have achieved 15-20% growth, while townhouses have seen more modest gains due to mortgage restrictions above the Dh5 million threshold.

    Arabian Ranches demonstrates similar resilience, supported by proximity to the prestigious Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS). Despite slightly lower growth rates due to larger housing inventory, non-renovated villas have delivered solid 20-25% annual returns.

    The phenomenon mirrors established patterns in global markets like London and Singapore, where properties near elite educational institutions consistently command premium valuations. Knight Frank reports Dubai’s prime villa market maintained double-digit growth throughout 2025, driven primarily by end-user demand from expatriate families seeking long-term residency.

    Faisal Durrani, Partner and Head of Middle East Research at Knight Frank, observed: ‘The shift toward end-user driven buying is making the market more stable and sustainable. Communities offering lifestyle infrastructure including schools, parks, and retail are experiencing the strongest and most resilient price growth.’

    CBRE data corroborates this narrative, indicating Dubai’s average villa prices surged over 20% in 2025, substantially outpacing apartment growth. Taimur Khan, Head of Research for Middle East and Africa at CBRE, noted: ‘Villa communities with strong schooling options and established infrastructure continue to outperform, supported by limited supply and a growing base of long-term residents.’

    The education-driven dynamic is reinforcing market stability, with buyers committing to extended ownership horizons of five to ten years. This transition from speculative investment to genuine occupier demand reduces volatility and supports sustained capital appreciation, positioning Dubai’s established villa communities for continued price momentum through 2026 and beyond.

  • UAE non-oil GDP grows 6.1% in first nine months of 2025

    UAE non-oil GDP grows 6.1% in first nine months of 2025

    The United Arab Emirates has demonstrated remarkable economic resilience with its non-oil sector expanding by 6.1% during the first nine months of 2025, according to official data released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC). This robust performance contributed significantly to the nation’s overall GDP growth of 5.1% year-on-year, bringing total economic output to approximately Dh1.4 trillion.

    Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri announced on Friday that the non-oil sector’s value exceeded Dh1 trillion, highlighting the success of the country’s strategic diversification efforts. The minister credited this economic achievement to the UAE’s ongoing transition toward a knowledge-based economy supported by competitive legislative frameworks and business-friendly policies aligned with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision.

    Sectoral analysis reveals financial and insurance activities led the expansion with 9% growth, followed closely by construction at 8.7%, real estate at 7.9%, and manufacturing at 6.9%. In terms of overall contribution to non-oil GDP, wholesale and retail trade maintained the largest share at 16.1%, with manufacturing accounting for 13.9%, financial services 13.5%, and construction 11.9%.

    Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the FCSC, emphasized that these results demonstrate the resilience of the UAE’s economic model amid global economic shifts. She noted that the integration of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence into national statistical systems has significantly enhanced policy efficiency and development planning capabilities. The sustained growth positions the UAE favorably to achieve its ambitious goal of doubling the national GDP to Dh3 trillion within the next decade.

  • Wadan Developments introduces Tresora, marking another successful launch

    Wadan Developments introduces Tresora, marking another successful launch

    Dubai’s real estate landscape welcomes another innovative development as Wadan Developments launches Tresora, its fourth major project, signaling continued expansion in the UAE property market. This 23-story integrated tower in Jumeirah Village Circle represents a sophisticated approach to urban living by combining residential, commercial, and office spaces within a single connected ecosystem.

    The strategically positioned development capitalizes on JVC’s status as one of Dubai’s most dynamic and centrally located communities. With upcoming metro infrastructure enhancing accessibility, Tresora promises unprecedented connectivity to key urban centers while maintaining the appeal of a established residential neighborhood. This transit-oriented development strategy positions Tresora for long-term valuation growth and sustained market relevance.

    Architecturally, Tresora employs a vertically layered design philosophy with retail and commercial establishments at the foundation levels, contemporary office spaces in the middle tiers, and residential apartments occupying the upper floors. This intentional spatial organization creates a self-contained microenvironment where professional, commercial, and domestic activities seamlessly intersect.

    Residential units feature intelligent space optimization with premium finishes and minimalist aesthetics, emphasizing functional elegance over mere ornamentation. The development incorporates advanced smart-home technology through the proprietary Wadan App, enabling residents to control environmental systems and access building services via mobile devices.

    Amenities include comprehensive wellness facilities with a fully-equipped fitness center, swimming pool, and dedicated relaxation areas. Community spaces have been carefully curated to foster social interaction, featuring children’s play zones and collaborative work environments. Additional premium services include secured parking, elegantly appointed lobbies, and professionally managed common areas.

    The project launch event at Wadan’s sales gallery demonstrated strong investor confidence and industry support, highlighting Tresora’s strategic positioning and investment potential. This successful unveiling marks Wadan’s fourth consecutive project launch, underscoring the developer’s operational capacity and market understanding.

    Tresora embodies Wadan’s brand philosophy of ‘A Vision Beyond Luxury,’ focusing on practical sophistication, locational advantage, and genuine quality of life enhancements rather than superficial extravagance. The development represents the evolving paradigm in urban property development where integrated living solutions take precedence over isolated residential concepts.

  • Abu Dhabi’s Aldar issues $1 billion hybrid notes to Apollo

    Abu Dhabi’s Aldar issues $1 billion hybrid notes to Apollo

    In a landmark financial maneuver, Abu Dhabi’s premier real estate developer, Aldar Properties, has successfully executed a $1 billion private placement of subordinated hybrid notes with global asset management titan Apollo Global Management. This strategic transaction, finalized on February 20, 2026, now stands as the single largest corporate hybrid private placement ever recorded within the region.

    The sophisticated capital restructuring initiative involves the issuance of notes at the parent company level. The net proceeds are subsequently being channeled as an equity infusion into Aldar Investment Properties (AIP), the entity responsible for managing Aldar’s portfolio of income-generating real estate assets. A significant component of this arrangement includes the full repayment of $500 million in perpetual subordinated notes previously held by Apollo in AIP, which originated from the asset manager’s initial $1.4 billion investment into Aldar back in 2022.

    This latest financial injection elevates the total capital commitment from Apollo-managed affiliates, funds, and clients to approximately $2.9 billion over a four-year period, significantly deepening the strategic partnership between the two firms. The transaction is meticulously designed to fortify the capital structures of both Aldar and AIP, providing enhanced balance sheet resilience and bolstering the company’s capacity to pursue its ambitious growth agenda. Consequently, Aldar’s ownership stake in its lucrative AIP subsidiary has increased to a commanding 90%, with Apollo retaining a 10% share.

    Faisal Falaknaz, Group Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer at Aldar, emphasized the strategic value of the deal, stating it provides ‘long-term, flexible capital’ that empowers the company to capitalize on compelling market opportunities. He further highlighted that the move amplifies Aldar’s share of stable, recurring income derived from AIP’s high-quality and diversified portfolio, which is poised for further expansion through acquisitions and a substantial develop-to-hold pipeline valued at nearly $5 billion.

    Echoing the sentiment, Jamshid Ehsani, a Partner at Apollo, commended the transaction as a testament to Apollo’s expertise in structuring adaptable capital solutions that align with the objectives of corporate clients and investors alike. He praised Aldar’s ‘robust performance and portfolio expansion’ under experienced management and reaffirmed Apollo’s sustained commitment to the Abu Dhabi market and the broader Middle East region. The hybrid notes feature a long-term structure with an extended non-call period of 10.25 years, mirroring the terms of a recent public issuance by Aldar.

  • In war-weary Kyiv, wounded Ukrainian veterans turn epic poetry into living testimony

    In war-weary Kyiv, wounded Ukrainian veterans turn epic poetry into living testimony

    KYIV, Ukraine — In an extraordinary fusion of classical literature and contemporary reality, Ukrainian military veterans and drama students have collaboratively brought to life a groundbreaking theatrical production. The performance, an adaptation of Ivan Kotliarevskyi’s 18th-century work ‘Eneida’ itself based on Virgil’s ‘Aeneid,’ serves as both artistic expression and therapeutic rehabilitation for participants bearing the physical and psychological scars of Russia’s ongoing invasion.

    Directed by Olha Semioshkina, the production at Kyiv’s National Academic Molodyy Theatre features a cast ranging from their 20s to 60s, including veterans who sustained amputations, severe burns, and vision loss during combat. The year-long preparation process involved not only theatrical training but fundamental physical and emotional rehabilitation, with participants spending months learning to communicate, move, and exist with their changed bodies before even beginning script work.

    Semioshkina’s conceptual framework transforms every male actor into Aeneas and every female actor into Dido, mirroring the epic journey of Virgil’s hero who wanders after tragedy in search of a new homeland. In this modern interpretation, the Trojan hero becomes a Cossack—raw, resilient, and profoundly human—while the veterans’ real experiences blur the lines between myth and reality.

    The performance reaches its emotional zenith when actors break character to share personal testimonies: accounts of drone strikes, occupation, loss of comrades, and returning to war despite advanced age. Yehor Babenko, a border service veteran with severe burns, delivers darkly humorous lines about shared experiences with being ‘burned out,’ while Andrii Onopriienko, who lost his sight in an artillery strike, provides resonant narration despite initially doubting his ability to contribute.

    The production’s technical elements incorporate prosthetic limbs and metal rods that serve both as theatrical props and practical supports, creating a visual language that acknowledges rather than hides the actors’ conditions. Even the performance itself faced wartime realities when a power outage during the premiere required actors to continue under flashlight illumination, creating an unplanned but profoundly symbolic moment of perseverance.

    The standing ovation that greeted the cast affirmed not only their artistic achievement but the production’s deeper message about veteran resilience and community support. As Semioshkina emphasized, the production serves as an invitation to all veterans to reconnect with life beyond their trauma: ‘Come out. You can do something. Live. Don’t close yourself off. Live every single minute.’

  • Keeping calm and carrying on, the royal family weathers worst crisis in generations

    Keeping calm and carrying on, the royal family weathers worst crisis in generations

    Buckingham Palace faces its most severe constitutional crisis in nearly a century following the dramatic arrest of King Charles III’s brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, on allegations of misconduct in public office. The 66-year-old royal was detained for eleven hours before being released under ongoing investigation, creating unprecedented turmoil within the House of Windsor.

    Despite the seismic developments, senior royals maintained their public engagements with remarkable composure. King Charles attended London Fashion Week openings while Queen Camilla proceeded with a scheduled concert appearance. Princess Anne continued her duties with a prison visit, demonstrating the monarchy’s determination to project stability amid growing scandal.

    Historical parallels are being drawn to the 1936 abdication crisis of Edward VIII, though commentators note the current situation lacks clear resolution pathways. The crisis stems from recently released U.S. Justice Department documents detailing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as Britain’s special trade envoy.

    The palace has attempted institutional damage control by stripping the former prince of his titles and royal privileges. However, constitutional experts note he remains eighth in line to the throne unless Parliament passes specific legislation for his removal. At least eight British police forces are now examining evidence contained within the Epstein documents.

    Royal historian Ed Owens observes this crisis differs fundamentally from previous scandals: “There’s no blueprint to follow in terms of how the monarchy and associated organizations deal with these allegations.” The institution faces mounting pressure for transparency regarding what family members knew about Andrew’s activities during his controversial association with Epstein.

    This represents the first major test of King Charles’s reign, occurring amidst rapidly evolving public expectations for accountability from leadership figures. The monarchy’s response will likely determine its relevance in modern British society, with critics arguing the institution was slow to address concerns about Andrew’s connections that have circulated for over a decade.

  • When in Rome: Budapest pizzeria offers time-travel twist with ancient Rome-inspired pie

    When in Rome: Budapest pizzeria offers time-travel twist with ancient Rome-inspired pie

    BUDAPEST, Hungary — A pioneering pizzeria in the Hungarian capital is offering culinary adventurers a taste of ancient Rome with a historically inspired creation that predates the modern pizza by nearly two millennia. Neverland Pizzeria, located in central Budapest, has developed a limited-edition dish using exclusively ingredients available during the Roman Empire era, challenging conventional notions of what constitutes pizza.

    Founder Josep Zara explained that the project originated from a question about historical culinary practices. ‘Curiosity drove us to explore what pizza might have resembled in ancient times,’ Zara stated. ‘We journeyed back to the Roman Empire to investigate whether they consumed anything resembling pizza.’

    Historical accuracy required significant innovation since tomatoes and mozzarella—staples of contemporary pizza—were unavailable in Europe until centuries later. Archaeological discoveries, particularly a 2023 excavation in Pompeii that revealed frescoes depicting flatbreads with various toppings, provided inspiration for the culinary experiment.

    Zara conducted extensive research into Roman gastronomy, consulting with German historians and studying the ancient cookbook ‘De re coquinaria’ from the 5th century. This historical investigation yielded a list of authenticated ingredients that head chef László Bárdossy and his team incorporated into their creation.

    The development process presented substantial technical challenges. ‘We faced months of experimentation and several failed attempts,’ Bárdossy revealed. ‘The absence of modern water systems in Roman times complicated our dough preparation, as water constitutes over 80% of pizza dough.’

    The culinary team devised innovative solutions, including using fermented spinach juice as a leavening agent and incorporating ancient grains like einkorn and spelt that were commonly cultivated during the Roman period. The resulting dough possesses a denser texture than conventional pizza bases.

    The finished product features aristocratic Roman ingredients including epityrum (olive paste), garum (ubiquitous fermented fish sauce), confit duck leg, toasted pine nuts, ricotta cheese, and a grape reduction. While acknowledging the creation’s niche appeal, Bárdossy describes it as ‘something special’ that blends historical authenticity with modern culinary accessibility.

    The project reflects Neverland Pizzeria’s commitment to balancing innovation with tradition, though Zara humorously noted one modern boundary they maintain: ‘We definitely do not use pineapple.’

  • Ahmed bin Saeed launches Al Jalila Foundation’s ‘The Cancer Fund’

    Ahmed bin Saeed launches Al Jalila Foundation’s ‘The Cancer Fund’

    In a significant development for healthcare philanthropy, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, has officially launched ‘The Cancer Fund’ under the Al Jalila Foundation. The ceremony, held at Dubai Hospital, was attended by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, alongside senior officials and dignitaries.

    The newly established fund represents a strategic initiative designed to provide crucial financial assistance for cancer treatment throughout patients’ recovery journeys. By mitigating the substantial economic pressures associated with cancer care, the fund ensures continuous treatment access regardless of patients’ financial circumstances.

    Concurrently, Sheikh Ahmed unveiled ‘The Giving Wall’ at Dubai Hospital, a permanent installation recognizing the generosity of donors who have supported the hospital’s treatment programs. This visual tribute highlights the community’s collective commitment to healthcare advancement.

    During the launch event, Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the UAE’s deeply ingrained cultural values of generosity and compassion, noting that current leadership continues to build upon this legacy by prioritizing citizen health and wellbeing. He praised the collaborative efforts of individuals and institutions whose contributions strengthen community philanthropic initiatives.

    Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of Dubai Health Board of Directors and Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation, described the fund as “a strategic step towards building a sustainable support system for patients” that represents “a forward-looking model of collaboration” between community and institutional giving. She emphasized the role of sustainable philanthropy in creating a more cohesive society.

    Dr. Amer Al Zarooni revealed that the foundation’s Ramadan 2026 campaign will be dedicated to The Cancer Fund, building upon previous success that saw AED43 million in contributions through the ‘A’awen’ program, which provided care to 650 cancer patients over the past year. The foundation now encourages individuals and organizations to support this vital initiative through various donation channels.