Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) has revolutionized its deposit refund process, enabling customers to receive refunds of up to Dh4,000 in just 30 minutes. This marks a significant improvement from the previous four-day processing time, thanks to a newly automated system. The upgraded process incorporates advanced validation checks, allowing direct bank transfers to customer accounts without manual intervention, ensuring enhanced speed, accuracy, and reliability. This innovation aligns with Dewa’s broader digital transformation efforts, which include the recent launch of the updated Smart Living Programme on October 18. The programme leverages artificial intelligence to provide hyper-personalized recommendations for reducing electricity and water consumption by comparing individual usage with neighborhood averages. Customers can access these insights through the Dewa app, fostering greater awareness and efficiency in resource consumption. Dr. Ali Rashed Bin Ghaith Alsuwaidi, Dewa’s Chief Innovation Officer, emphasized the programme’s role in promoting sustainable living. This development underscores Dewa’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
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The Trump Organization eyes real estate deal in Saudi government development: Report
The Trump Organization is reportedly in advanced negotiations to establish a branded property within one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious government-owned real estate developments. Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of the Saudi company spearheading the Diriyah project, hinted to The New York Times that an official announcement is imminent. ‘Nothing announced yet, but soon to be,’ Inzerillo stated, emphasizing that a deal is ‘just a matter of time.’
Diriyah, the ancestral home of the Al-Saud ruling family and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is undergoing a $63 billion transformation into a luxury destination featuring hotels, restaurants, shops, and museums. During his May visit to Saudi Arabia, former U.S. President Donald Trump toured the site, which Inzerillo described as a strategic move to appeal to Trump’s developer instincts. ‘It turned out to be a good stroke of luck and maybe a little bit clever of us to say, ‘OK, let’s appeal to him as a developer’ – and he loved it,’ Inzerillo remarked.
This potential deal aligns with the Trump Organization’s expanding footprint in the Gulf region. The company, managed by Trump’s sons Eric and Donald Jr., has secured numerous high-profile projects across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and the Maldives. These ventures often involve licensing the Trump brand to foreign developers, a lucrative strategy that generated $21.9 million in revenue last year alone, according to The New York Times.
The Trump Organization’s Gulf expansion has not been without controversy, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and favoritism during Trump’s presidency. Despite these allegations, the organization continues to forge partnerships with influential regional firms like Saudi Arabia’s Dar Global, which recently announced a new luxury hotel project in the Maldives under the Trump International brand.
As the Trump family business thrives abroad, its reliance on foreign partnerships underscores the global appeal of the Trump name, even as it navigates ongoing scrutiny.
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Gunmen kidnap 25 schoolgirls in northwestern Nigeria
In a harrowing early morning raid on Monday, gunmen from a criminal gang stormed the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Kebbi state, northwestern Nigeria, kidnapping 25 schoolgirls and killing a staff member. Armed with sophisticated weapons, the assailants breached the school’s defenses, abducting the students and fleeing to an unknown location. The attack has reignited fears of a spiraling kidnapping crisis in Nigeria, reminiscent of the infamous 2014 Chibok abduction, where 276 girls were taken by Boko Haram insurgents. Police, military units, and local vigilantes have launched a manhunt to rescue the abducted students and apprehend the perpetrators. This incident marks the second mass school abduction in Kebbi in four years, following a 2021 attack where over 100 students and staff were taken. The region has become a hotspot for kidnappings, with heavily armed gangs exploiting the security vacuum to terrorize communities. Despite efforts by authorities to negotiate peace deals and deploy vigilante groups, the kidnapping crisis continues to escalate, leaving families and communities in despair. Nigeria’s northwest, plagued by armed violence and banditry, remains the epicenter of this growing humanitarian and security crisis.
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The Egyptian green tech firm looking to cut energy bills
In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable energy solutions, the Egyptian green technology company Saving System has unveiled a cutting-edge device designed to significantly reduce electricity consumption for businesses. This innovative technology promises to help companies slash their energy bills while contributing to environmental conservation. The device, developed after extensive research and testing, targets inefficiencies in energy usage, offering a practical and cost-effective solution for industries grappling with rising energy costs. As global attention shifts towards renewable energy and carbon footprint reduction, Saving System’s invention positions Egypt as a key player in the green tech revolution. The company’s initiative aligns with international efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. Industry experts have lauded the innovation, noting its potential to transform energy management practices across various sectors. With energy efficiency becoming a critical concern worldwide, Saving System’s device could pave the way for a more sustainable and economically viable future.
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US will give visa appointment priority to World Cup ticket holders
In a significant move to streamline visa processes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, President Donald Trump has unveiled the FIFA Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System (PASS). This initiative, announced at the White House on Monday, aims to expedite visa interviews for foreign nationals holding tickets to the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that while ticket-holders will not automatically receive visas, they will be prioritized for interviews within six to eight weeks of application. However, Rubio clarified that possessing a ticket does not guarantee entry into the U.S., as all applicants will undergo standard vetting procedures. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, present at the announcement, projected that up to 10 million visitors could attend the event, underscoring the importance of efficient visa processing. The announcement comes amid lengthy visa wait times in countries like Colombia (11 months), Mexico City (9.5 months), and Toronto (14 months), which could otherwise hinder fans from attending the tournament. The U.S. Travel Association praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance security while reducing wait times. However, questions remain about the eligibility of ticket-holders from countries affected by Trump’s June executive order, which restricts travel from 12 nations, including Iran, whose team has qualified for the World Cup. While the order exempts athletes and coaching staff, fans from these countries may still face travel bans. The BBC has reached out to the U.S. State Department for further clarification. Notably, citizens of countries under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, including much of Europe, Japan, and Australia, can travel visa-free for up to 90 days. This contrasts with recent World Cups in Russia and Qatar, where tickets served as fan IDs, functioning like visas for entry.
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New coin honors Freddie Mercury and his 4-octave range
The Royal Mint of Britain has unveiled a special commemorative coin honoring the legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, celebrating the 40th anniversary of his iconic Live Aid performance in 1985. The coin, designed with meticulous detail, features Mercury in his signature pose—head thrown back, gripping the microphone stand—capturing the essence of his electrifying stage presence. A musical stave encircling the coin symbolizes his extraordinary four-octave vocal range, a testament to his unparalleled talent. The first coin was ceremoniously struck by Mercury’s sister, Kashmira Bulsara, at the Royal Mint in Wales. Bulsara expressed her delight, stating, ‘This coin is a fitting tribute to Freddie’s legacy and the joy he brought to millions through his music.’ Rebecca Morgan, the Royal Mint’s director of commemorative coins, emphasized the perfect timing of the release, noting that fans had long awaited such a tribute. The coin’s launch coincides with the 40th anniversary of Mercury’s solo album, ‘Mr Bad Guy,’ and follows the Mint’s tradition of honoring music legends like David Bowie and Paul McCartney. Available for purchase on the Royal Mint’s website, the coins range from 18.50 pounds for an uncirculated version to 9,350 pounds for a 2 oz. gold proof edition. Additionally, a special gold edition will be donated to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, a charity established in Mercury’s memory to support those affected by HIV and AIDS.
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South Africa coach lauds Bavuma as one of the best in the world
South Africa’s cricket coach, Shukri Conrad, has hailed captain Temba Bavuma as one of the finest batters in the world, following his pivotal performance in the first Test against India at Eden Gardens. Bavuma’s unbeaten 55 on a challenging wicket in the second innings was instrumental in setting a modest target of 124 runs, which India failed to chase, being bowled out for 93. This victory marked South Africa’s first Test win in India since 2010. Conrad emphasized Bavuma’s exceptional consistency and leadership, noting that he has averaged 57.00 with the bat in his 11 Tests as captain, winning 10 and drawing one. The coach praised Bavuma’s ability to stick to his game plan, even when conditions were difficult, and highlighted the team’s resilience and unity as key factors in their success. The second and final Test of the series will commence in Guwahati on Saturday.
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Italy fans brace for more Fifa World Cup playoff drama
Italian football fans are grappling with a sense of déjà vu as their national team faces yet another World Cup playoff challenge. The Azzurri, four-time world champions, suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat to Norway in their final qualifier at San Siro, dashing hopes of direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The loss leaves Italy with the daunting task of navigating the playoffs in March to avoid missing the tournament for a third consecutive time.
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Dubai: Nol Pay app users can now renew expiring cards, extend validity of travel passes
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a significant upgrade to the Nol Pay app, introducing a suite of new features designed to enhance user convenience and efficiency. The updated app now allows users to renew expiring cards, extend the validity of travel passes, and manage family members’ Nol cards with ease. Proactive notifications remind users to top up low balances, while instant top-ups and real-time balance enquiries ensure seamless transactions. Additionally, users can schedule automatic top-ups for family cards at predefined intervals and purchase travel passes instantly. The app also supports digitized Nol cards on Samsung and Huawei devices, enabling payments across public transport and retail outlets with a simple tap—without opening the app. This upgrade is part of RTA’s broader initiative to integrate Account Based Ticketing (ABT) technology, aligning the app’s interface with the unified digital ecosystem of RTA. By the end of 2024, over 33,000 digital cards had been sold, marking a 460% increase from the previous year, while app downloads surged to 1.5 million, reflecting a 150% year-on-year growth.
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Sharjah: Man saved from drowning in open sea; rescue team honoured
In a dramatic rescue operation, the Sharjah Civil Defence Marine Rescue Unit saved a man from drowning during a routine patrol on November 17, 2025. The team encountered the individual in a life-threatening condition in the open sea and acted swiftly to bring him aboard their vessel. Immediate first aid was administered before the man was transported to specialized medical facilities for further treatment. The Director General of the Sharjah Civil Defense Authority, Colonel Youssef Obaid Harmoul Al-Shamsi, honored the rescue team for their high readiness and rapid response. This incident highlights the critical role of marine rescue units in ensuring public safety along the UAE’s coastlines. Authorities have been actively promoting beach safety, with Dubai Police recently increasing patrols and introducing summer training programs for school students to teach lifeguarding and rescue techniques. The public is also encouraged to volunteer in maritime safety initiatives, particularly during major events. Mamzar Beach, a shared area between Sharjah and Dubai, has witnessed several drowning incidents in recent years, underscoring the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines. The Sharjah Civil Defense Authority continues to emphasize the need for community involvement in preventing such tragedies.