Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • AI-driven observability gains momentum as enterprises embrace hybrid work and cloud

    AI-driven observability gains momentum as enterprises embrace hybrid work and cloud

    As digital transformation accelerates across the Middle East, enterprises are increasingly prioritizing observability to address the challenges of performance, visibility, and control in hybrid and cloud-dependent environments. The shift to remote work, widespread cloud adoption, and the growing complexity of IT ecosystems have made observability — the ability to monitor, analyze, and optimize digital experiences — a critical focus for CIOs and IT leaders.

    Riverbed Technology, a leader in network optimization, is positioning itself at the forefront of this evolution. At GITEX, the company unveiled its latest innovations in observability and performance acceleration, including Riverbed IQ Ops, a platform enhanced with AI and machine learning capabilities. These tools enable predictive analysis, automated remediation, and integration with third-party systems like ServiceNow, empowering IT teams to proactively manage performance and security across distributed environments.

    Salman Ali, Riverbed’s Senior Manager for Solution Engineering in the GCC, emphasized the strategic use of AI in their approach. “We’re not just adding AI for the sake of it,” he said. “We’re using causal AI and generative algorithms to deliver actionable insights, break down silos across infrastructure, applications, and networks, and unify observability across the enterprise.”

    Riverbed’s methodology focuses on data quality and relevance. Its platform collects, filters, and analyzes data to ensure AI delivers meaningful outcomes, from forecasting IT issues to correlating performance metrics across domains. This unified observability model is particularly valuable in hybrid work scenarios, where consistent access and performance are essential regardless of user location.

    The company is also playing a pivotal role in the UAE’s digital transformation journey. As organizations migrate services to the cloud and digitize operations, Riverbed provides visibility into user behavior, service adoption, and performance metrics — both before and after migration. “Digitization has enabled us to give companies the right visibility into how services are used and where enhancements are needed,” Ali explained.

    Looking ahead, Riverbed identifies three major trends driving demand for observability: digitization, cloud adoption, and hybrid work. As applications move further from users, the need for deep visibility and control becomes more urgent. “The more digital we become, the more we need to understand our environments,” Ali noted. “Observability is the foundation for that understanding.”

  • Britain removes terrorism designation for Syria’s HTS

    Britain removes terrorism designation for Syria’s HTS

    In a significant policy shift, the British government has removed Hay’at Tahrir Al Sham (HTS) from its list of banned terrorist organizations. This decision, announced on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s approach to Syria. HTS, a former Al Qaeda affiliate, was initially proscribed in 2017, making it illegal to support or join the group. The move aligns with broader international efforts to engage with Syria’s new government, led by President Ahmed Al Sharaa, who assumed power following the ousting of long-time leader Bashar Al Assad. The UK government emphasized that this decision would facilitate closer collaboration with Syria, particularly in dismantling Assad’s chemical weapons program and restoring regional stability. This development follows the U.S. revocation of HTS’s foreign terrorist organization designation in July 2025. Meanwhile, Syria’s Economy Minister, Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar, expressed optimism at a London conference that U.S. sanctions against Syria could be lifted in the near future.

  • Youth trace roots by sharing stories

    Youth trace roots by sharing stories

    Young individuals from Taiwan gathered in Beijing to reflect on the shared heritage and historical ties between Taiwan and mainland China, emphasizing the importance of a correct understanding of history and national identity. The event, held at the Taiwan Guild Hall, marked the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration to China and was organized by the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, China Daily’s national news channel, the Beijing Taiwan Compatriots Association, and the association for relatives of patriots in Taiwan who fought against Japanese occupation. Four youth representatives from Taiwan shared their personal and familial connections to this historical period, highlighting the enduring bonds across the Taiwan Strait. Lo Chih-ying, a 23-year-old from Changhua county, traced her family’s roots back over 300 years to Fujian province, underscoring the deep ancestral ties. Lu Ying-chu, a 21-year-old student from Taipei, recounted the painful history of Taiwan’s cession to Japan in 1895 and the resilience of her great-grandfather during the occupation. Lin Ching-mao, a 26-year-old Peking University student, honored the resistance against Japanese rule, while Lin Kuan-ting from Taipei spoke of the belief that Taiwan’s future is intertwined with the strength of the motherland. The event also featured their participation in a documentary, ‘Stories across the Strait,’ which deepened their historical awareness. Li Zhenguang, dean of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Beijing Union University, stressed the significance of this historical memory for the younger generation, calling them the hope of the Chinese nation.

  • Aster DM Healthcare ranked 2nd largest healthcare provider in UAE, 15th in EMEA by revenue

    Aster DM Healthcare ranked 2nd largest healthcare provider in UAE, 15th in EMEA by revenue

    Aster DM Healthcare, a prominent integrated healthcare provider in the GCC and India, has achieved significant milestones in the healthcare industry. According to Healthcare Business International’s (HBI) 2025 report, the company has been ranked as the second-largest healthcare provider in the UAE and the 15th largest in the EMEA region by revenue. This recognition underscores Aster DM Healthcare’s substantial influence and growth in the global healthcare sector. Additionally, four of its hospitals were recently featured in Newsweek’s ‘World’s Best Smart Hospitals 2026’ list, which highlights 350 top hospitals worldwide. Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, expressed pride in this achievement, attributing it to nearly four decades of patient trust and the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible, and compassionate care. He emphasized that the organization’s mission aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2031, which aims to position the country as a global healthcare hub. Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO, echoed this sentiment, stating that the recognition reflects the dedication of their teams and the trust placed in them by their customers. Established in 1987, Aster DM Healthcare operates a vast network of 15 hospitals, 124 clinics, and 333 pharmacies across the GCC and Jordan. The company is renowned for its integrated healthcare model, which includes three distinct brands: Aster, Medcare, and Access. In line with its vision of accessible healthcare, Aster has also launched the region’s first healthcare super app, myAster, to meet the evolving needs of patients through both physical and digital channels.

  • Takaichi elected Japan’s first female PM, unveils cabinet lineup

    Takaichi elected Japan’s first female PM, unveils cabinet lineup

    In a historic moment for Japan, Sanae Takaichi has been elected as the nation’s first female prime minister, marking a significant milestone in the country’s political landscape. The election, held on Tuesday, saw Takaichi secure victory in both houses of the Diet, Japan’s parliament, with a decisive majority. Her win comes at a critical juncture for Japan, which has been grappling with political scandals and economic challenges. Takaichi, the president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), garnered 237 votes in the lower house, surpassing her opponent, Yoshihiko Noda of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, who secured 149 votes. In the upper house, Takaichi led with 123 votes, triggering a runoff where she ultimately emerged victorious. This dual triumph officially named her Japan’s 104th prime minister. Takaichi’s cabinet lineup, unveiled shortly after her election, aims to foster party unity and ensure policy stability. Key appointments include Minoru Kihara as chief cabinet secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi as internal affairs minister, Shinjiro Koizumi as defense minister, and Toshimitsu Motegi as foreign minister. Takaichi, a 64-year-old ultraconservative politician, assumed the LDP presidency earlier this month, succeeding Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned following the party’s consecutive electoral defeats. Her administration will lead a minority government in coalition with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), a partnership expected to focus on reviving Japan’s economy and creating a self-sustaining nation. While some opposition leaders have congratulated Takaichi, others have criticized her administration for shelving key policies. The political landscape remains tense as the new government prepares to address Japan’s pressing economic and social issues.

  • ‘Cruellest violation’: Saudi Arabia executes second child offender in two months

    ‘Cruellest violation’: Saudi Arabia executes second child offender in two months

    Saudi Arabia has once again drawn international condemnation after executing Abdullah al-Derazi, a man who was a minor at the time of the alleged crimes he committed. Derazi’s execution on Monday marks the second such case in two months, following the execution of Jalal Labbad in August. Both cases highlight Saudi Arabia’s ongoing violation of international human rights laws, including the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which prohibits the death penalty for individuals under 18 at the time of their offenses. Derazi was arrested in 2014 during protests against the treatment of Saudi Arabia’s Shia minority. He was accused of targeting security personnel and throwing Molotov cocktails. After a trial in 2018, he was sentenced to death. Rights groups have criticized the trial as unfair and secretive, with Derazi allegedly subjected to torture and forced confessions. His family was denied the opportunity to bid him farewell and only learned of his execution through media reports. Despite a 2020 royal order pledging to end the death penalty for juvenile offenders, Saudi Arabia has continued to execute individuals who committed crimes as minors. Alqst, a UK-based rights group, has identified at least five other child offenders at imminent risk of execution. The kingdom’s execution rate has surged, with 302 executions recorded so far in 2025, a 30% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Many of these executions involve non-lethal drug offenses and vague terrorism charges, potentially violating international law, which restricts the death penalty to the most serious crimes involving intentional killings. Nadyeen Abdulaziz of Alqst stated, ‘With Derazi’s execution, Saudi authorities lay bare the emptiness of their reform claims and their chilling disregard for international law.’

  • Egypt backs Tony Blair to oversee Gaza as ‘modern-day high commissioner’

    Egypt backs Tony Blair to oversee Gaza as ‘modern-day high commissioner’

    As the Gaza ceasefire took effect, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s potential involvement in the region’s future has become a topic of heated debate. U.S. President Donald Trump, en route to the Middle East, commented on Blair’s possible role, stating, ‘I like Tony, I have always liked Tony. But I want to find out that he is an acceptable choice to everybody.’ Blair’s controversial history in the Middle East, particularly his role in the Iraq War, has cast a shadow over his candidacy, with many in the Arab world expressing skepticism and even disdain. However, Blair’s warm reception by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit suggests strong support from Cairo. Since leaving office, Blair and his Tony Blair Institute (TBI) have advised several governments, including Egypt, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. A source within the Egyptian presidency revealed that Blair has provided extensive consultations to Sisi, focusing on countering political Islam, economic strategies, and government image management. Despite TBI’s denial of any formal advisory role in Egypt, the source confirmed that Blair’s influence has been significant. Blair’s ideological alignment with Sisi, particularly their shared opposition to political Islam, positions him as a pragmatic choice for leading Gaza’s transitional administration. The proposed Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA) is expected to be headquartered in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, underscoring Cairo’s strategic role in the region’s reconstruction. As Blair’s re-emergence in Middle Eastern politics continues to stir debate, his potential leadership in Gaza remains a contentious yet pivotal issue.

  • Dubai jewellers see brisk demand as Indian festive season kicks in

    Dubai jewellers see brisk demand as Indian festive season kicks in

    As the Indian festive season gains momentum, Dubai-based jewellers are experiencing a surge in demand, particularly for gold and silver products. Kiara Jewellery has strategically opened two new branches to cater to the heightened consumer activity surrounding Dhanteras and Diwali, two of India’s most significant festivals. This move aligns with the broader trend of increased gold and silver imports into India, where premiums on bullion have soared to their highest levels in over a decade, reaching up to $25 per ounce above official domestic prices. The robust demand is further bolstered by India’s annual retail inflation dropping to 1.54% in September 2025, the lowest in eight years, which has enhanced the purchasing power of consumers. Meanwhile, the UAE’s business confidence remains strong, driven by growth in new orders and output across key sectors, including retail. This favorable economic climate has made Dubai an attractive hub for premium retail expansions. Kiara Jewellery’s decision to launch new stores during this period reflects a keen understanding of consumer behavior and cultural significance, offering patrons more options to explore exquisite gold pieces. Co-founder Ada Panday emphasized that the timing of these openings symbolizes both cultural celebration and strategic foresight.

  • XTB empowers new investors with free stocks to build financial confidence

    XTB empowers new investors with free stocks to build financial confidence

    XTB, a prominent global investment platform, has unveiled its groundbreaking initiative, ‘Mastering Your Money: The XTB Investor Mindset,’ aimed at simplifying the complexities of investing for beginners. The campaign, set to launch on October 21, 2025, focuses on fostering financial literacy and building a solid foundation for wealth creation among early-stage investors. As part of this initiative, XTB will offer 10 free EMAAR stocks to new users who join the platform, providing them with a hands-on introduction to the financial markets. This strategic move is designed to lower entry barriers and encourage participation in investing. Central to the campaign is a series of free educational workshops, where participants can interact with seasoned traders, gain insights into essential financial concepts, and familiarize themselves with cutting-edge trading tools. Achraf Drid, Managing Director at XTB MENA, emphasized the importance of education in promoting responsible investing, stating, ‘Our goal is to equip new investors with the knowledge and tools they need for long-term financial success.’ The initiative also highlights XTB’s commitment to inclusivity in financial markets, offering access to over 6,300 financial instruments, including stocks, ETFs, and CFDs. With a focus on empowering individuals at every stage of their financial journey, XTB’s latest campaign underscores its dedication to making investing accessible and approachable for all.

  • Food delivery platforms to do away with financial penalties, sparking debate

    Food delivery platforms to do away with financial penalties, sparking debate

    China’s leading food delivery platforms, Eleme and Meituan, are set to eliminate financial penalties for delayed deliveries, marking a significant shift in the industry’s operational framework. This move has sparked a heated debate among stakeholders, with mixed reactions from delivery riders and market observers. Eleme announced via its official WeChat account that it is piloting a revised service-points mechanism in select cities, including Nantong, Changzhou, Jieyang, and Jingdezhen. This new system replaces direct monetary fines with point deductions, aiming to incentivize better performance and reward high-quality service. The company plans to expand this initiative to more cities by October. Similarly, Meituan has been testing a ‘non-penalty mechanism’ in over 30 cities and has committed to completely abolishing late-delivery fines by the end of 2025. While some delivery riders, like Li Yingke, welcome the change, citing reduced pressure to rush, others, such as Zhao Xuena, express concerns over potential wage impacts due to lower service scores. The industry’s shift reflects a broader trend toward balancing efficiency with worker welfare, though its long-term implications remain to be seen.