In a heartwarming turn of events, four expatriates from India and Bangladesh have collectively won Dh540,000 in the Big Ticket’s The Big Win Contest. The winners, who participated in the series 280 Big Ticket draw, expressed their joy and gratitude for the life-changing opportunity. Among the winners was a 57-year-old expatriate from Kerala, who has been purchasing tickets monthly for the past decade alongside a close-knit group of friends. He described the experience of visiting the Big Ticket studio and winning the contest as surreal and plans to share his prize with his group. Another winner, a 49-year-old senior piping engineer from Tamil Nadu, shared his surprise at winning Dh130,000, having purchased tickets individually since 2019. A Bangladeshi expatriate residing in Al Ain also took home Dh150,000, expressing his intention to share the prize with friends. The fourth winner, a 34-year-old engineer from Kerala, won Dh150,000 and plans to use his share to buy gifts for his family. All winners emphasized the importance of perseverance and encouraged others to continue participating in the draws, as their moment of success came unexpectedly.
博客
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Henan retailer’s reparation policy fosters workers’ rights
Pang Donglai Trading Group, a prominent supermarket chain in Henan province, has taken a groundbreaking step in safeguarding employee rights by introducing a comprehensive compensation policy for workplace dignity violations. The company recently disclosed detailed records of payments made to employees who experienced personal dignity infringements, highlighting its commitment to fostering a respectful and fair work environment.
On November 19, 2025, the retailer released its ‘Compensation Standards for Pangdonglai’s Infringement of Personal Dignity’ on its official website. The document outlines 33 cases recorded between January 1 and October 31, 2025, with total compensation amounting to 359,000 yuan ($50,495). The policy underscores the company’s belief that personal dignity is an inviolable right, with the mental and physical harm from such incidents often being ‘lifelong, extremely painful, and irreversible.’
One notable case involved an employee surnamed Cheng, who was assaulted while escorting an abusive customer out of a store in Xuchang on January 26. The customer, later identified as having mental health issues, slapped Cheng twice. The company compensated Cheng with 30,000 yuan, demonstrating its zero-tolerance stance on workplace violations.
Since July 2024, Pang Donglai’s founder, Yu Donglai, has actively promoted the policy through his personal Douyin account. The compensation framework includes payments of over 5,000 yuan for unjust accusations, over 10,000 yuan for insults, and over 30,000 yuan for physical assaults. Yu emphasized that customers involved in such incidents would also face legal repercussions.
The initiative aims to cultivate a corporate culture rooted in respect, fairness, and justice while advocating for stronger social and legal protections for personal dignity. Xu Wei, a lawyer at Henan Tianji Law Firm, praised the policy for exceeding legal obligations and setting a benchmark for employee welfare. ‘It exemplifies how employers can treat workers with dignity and respect,’ Xu noted.
Tang Yaqin, a frequent customer from Zhengzhou, commended the company’s people-first approach, stating that such practices foster employee loyalty and consumer trust. Founded in 1995, Pang Donglai has grown to 13 stores across Xuchang and Xinxiang, employing approximately 8,300 workers with an average monthly salary of 9,000 yuan. The chain is renowned for its employee-friendly policies, including generous paid leave allowances.
As of November 8, 2025, the company’s total sales for the year reached 200.35 billion yuan, surpassing the previous year’s figures by 30 billion yuan. This success underscores the positive impact of its progressive policies on both employee morale and business performance.
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Flydubai to introduce new premium economy class, says CEO
Flydubai, Dubai’s prominent budget carrier, is set to revolutionize its in-flight experience by introducing a premium economy class, as revealed by CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith during the Dubai Airshow 2025. This strategic move will see the airline offering three distinct classes—premium economy, economy, and business—on its Boeing 787 aircraft. The decision aligns with the airline’s evolving market dynamics and its commitment to enhancing passenger comfort. Al Ghaith emphasized that the premium economy class will not be available on narrow-body aircraft due to space constraints, but the airline remains open to future possibilities. This announcement comes on the heels of Flydubai’s landmark $24 billion deal with Airbus for 150 A321neo aircraft, which will bolster its fleet and support Dubai World Central’s ambitious expansion plans. The new Airbus aircraft are slated for delivery starting in 2031, coinciding with the opening of the first phase of Al Maktoum International Airport. Flydubai’s growth trajectory reflects its adaptability to market demands, having expanded its flight range and introduced business class in recent years. The introduction of premium economy underscores the airline’s focus on diversifying its offerings to cater to a broader spectrum of travelers.
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Israeli MPs debate ‘lethal injection’ death penalty for Palestinian prisoners
The Israeli parliament’s National Security Committee convened on Wednesday to deliberate a contentious bill proposing the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of terrorism, with lethal injection as the designated method. The legislation, spearheaded by MK Limor Son Har Melech of the far-right Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party, successfully passed its first reading last week and is now advancing toward its second and third readings, the final steps before becoming law. Committee Chair MK Tzvika Foghel, also from Otzma Yehudit, outlined the guiding principles of the bill earlier this week, emphasizing its alignment with what he described as the Israeli public’s demand for justice following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack. Foghel argued that the death penalty would eliminate the possibility of future prisoner exchanges, which he claimed endanger Jewish lives. The bill mandates death sentences for individuals convicted of murdering Jews solely based on their ethnicity, including planners and dispatchers of such acts. It further stipulates that executions must occur within 90 days of sentencing, with no avenues for appeal, commutation, or pardon. The proposal has sparked intense debate in parliament, with heated exchanges between Otzma Yehudit lawmakers, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, and left-wing MPs who were forcibly removed from the session. Critics, including MP Gilad Kariv of the center-left Democrats party, condemned the bill as racist and driven by vengeance, arguing that it disproportionately targets Palestinians. The Public Defense’s Office at the Ministry of Justice also criticized the bill, citing global evidence that the death penalty lacks deterrent effects. Despite opposition, the bill garnered support from coalition parties and the right-wing opposition party Yisrael Beiteinu, while centrist parties abstained from voting. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly endorsed the death penalty, aligning with the bill’s assertion that imprisonment is insufficient to deter terrorism. If enacted, the law would mark a significant shift in Israeli policy, as the country has not carried out an execution since 1962. Human rights organizations, including the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, have vehemently opposed the bill, arguing that it violates fundamental human rights principles and disproportionately targets Palestinians. The debate unfolds amid reports of rising Palestinian detainee deaths in Israeli custody, further intensifying scrutiny of the proposed legislation.
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Shanghai offers blueprint for waterfront renewal
Shanghai has taken a pioneering step in urban development by hosting ‘Our Water: Flowing from Shanghai — Intercultural Dialogues among World Cities’ on November 18. This landmark event, which also served as the launch ceremony for the second season of the series, convened more than 200 domestic and international experts to deliberate on the transformative role of waterfronts in fostering global cultural exchange. The gathering underscored Shanghai’s commitment to redefining urban spaces, particularly its waterfronts, as vibrant hubs for intercultural dialogue and sustainable development. By leveraging its unique geographical and cultural assets, Shanghai aims to provide a blueprint for other cities worldwide, demonstrating how waterfront renewal can enhance urban livability and cultural connectivity. The event highlighted innovative strategies and collaborative approaches to urban planning, emphasizing the importance of integrating cultural heritage with modern development. As cities globally grapple with the challenges of urbanization, Shanghai’s initiative offers a compelling model for harmonizing environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic growth.
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UN resolution on Gaza imposes ‘illegal trusteeship’ over Palestinians, says top legal expert
A recent UN Security Council resolution endorsing former US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza has been criticized as a breach of fundamental international law principles, rendering it legally invalid, according to a prominent international law expert. The resolution, approved on Monday, supports the establishment of an international stabilization force and grants Trump supreme control over Gaza, with a ‘board of peace’ overseeing the plan’s implementation for two years. Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair’s involvement has also drawn significant attention. Ralph Wilde, a leading international law scholar and practitioner, argued that the resolution attempts to impose a ‘trusteeship’ over Gaza, a colonial arrangement that undermines Palestinians’ right to self-determination. Wilde, a professor at UCL and author of an award-winning book on international trusteeship, expressed dismay that his work is being used as a ‘manual’ for this trusteeship. He emphasized that trusteeship, historically used to justify colonial rule, contradicts the post-World War Two adoption of self-determination as a fundamental right in international law. Wilde further argued that replacing one form of trusteeship with another does not constitute self-determination and remains illegal. He noted that even if Palestinian representatives accept the plan, it would still be unlawful, akin to the Oslo Accords’ legitimization of certain aspects of Israel’s occupation. Wilde also highlighted that the UN Security Council’s authority is limited by the principles of justice and international law, and the resolution’s authorization of trusteeship is void as it violates these principles. The resolution passed with 13 votes in favor and abstentions from China and Russia.
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Canadian University Dubai students unveil Dome of Inclusion during Dubai Design Week
For the second year running, Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has collaborated with Dubai Holding Entertainment (DHE) and ImInclusive to promote equality and accessibility through innovative design. Their joint project, the Dome of Inclusion, was unveiled at Dubai Design Week, with Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, attending the opening ceremony. The installation, designed by CUD’s School of Architecture and Interior Design in partnership with ImInclusive, features interlocking hexagons and pentagons symbolizing unity through diversity. The hexagons represent six guiding principles: collaboration, creativity, inclusion, empowerment, innovation, and unity, while the pentagons signify five key areas of disability: physical, sensory, neurodiversity, intellectual, and psychosocial. Constructed from sustainable cardboard, the Dome showcases original artwork by People of Determination, turning design into a platform for accessibility and shared expression. The project highlights the talent and creativity of the disabled community, blending academic knowledge with lived experience. Sara Badr, a third-year interior design student involved in the project, emphasized the installation’s focus on collaboration and empowerment. Alanood Al Hashemi, VP of Organisational Culture and Impact at DHE, praised the initiative for bridging education, inclusion, and design. Massimo Imparato, dean of CUD’s School of Architecture and Interior Design, highlighted the project’s role in connecting students with industry professionals and celebrating the contributions of People of Determination to the UAE’s creative community.
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University licenses smart fish feeding system for 20 million
Huazhong Agricultural University, located in Wuhan, Hubei province, has unveiled a groundbreaking smart fish feeding system developed by its College of Fisheries. This innovative technology is designed to enhance efficiency and minimize waste in the aquaculture industry, addressing critical challenges faced by fish farmers. The university recently signed a 20-year technology licensing agreement with Sheng Ya Environment, granting the company exclusive rights to the system in exchange for 20 million yuan ($2.8 million). The smart feeding system leverages advanced algorithms and sensors to optimize feeding schedules and quantities, ensuring that fish receive the right amount of nutrition while reducing environmental impact. This development marks a significant step forward in the integration of technology into traditional industries, potentially transforming aquaculture practices globally. The licensing deal underscores the growing demand for sustainable solutions in food production and highlights the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration between academia and industry.
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South Korean ferry with 260 passengers hits rocky island
A South Korean passenger ferry transporting approximately 260 individuals collided with a rocky island near Jindo on Wednesday, leaving the vessel stranded, according to reports from YTN. The incident prompted an immediate response from the coast guard, which is currently conducting a rescue operation to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew. Officials have confirmed the ongoing efforts but have yet to provide further details regarding the condition of those on board or the extent of the damage to the ferry. The accident has raised concerns about maritime safety in the region, particularly as the area is known for its challenging navigation conditions. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the collision and assess whether any preventive measures could have been taken to avoid the incident. The stranded ferry has drawn significant attention, with local media closely monitoring the rescue operation and updates from officials.
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Hakimi and Chebbak named African players of the year
In a historic night for Moroccan football, Achraf Hakimi and Ghizlane Chebbak were crowned the 2025 African Footballer of the Year and Women’s Player of the Year, respectively, at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards in Rabat. Hakimi, the 27-year-old Paris Saint-Germain right-back, edged out Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen to claim the prestigious men’s award. This marks the first time a Moroccan has won the title since Mustapha Hadji in 1998. Hakimi’s stellar performances for both PSG and the Moroccan national team, including scoring the opening goal in PSG’s 5-0 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan, solidified his place as a deserving winner. Despite his recent ankle injury, Hakimi remains hopeful of leading Morocco to glory in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on home soil. Meanwhile, Chebbak, the 35-year-old Moroccan captain, made history as the first Moroccan woman to win the women’s award since its inception in 2001. Her leadership and top-scoring performance in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations were instrumental in Morocco’s journey to the final, although they fell short against Nigeria. The awards ceremony also celebrated other African football luminaries, including Cape Verde’s Bubista, named Men’s Coach of the Year for guiding his team to a historic World Cup qualification, and Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie, who secured the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the third consecutive year. The event underscored Morocco’s growing influence in African football and set the stage for the nation’s ambitions in the 2025 AFCON and beyond.