Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Drained Lake D in Dubai’s JLT to make way for waterfront hub with eateries, padel courts

    Drained Lake D in Dubai’s JLT to make way for waterfront hub with eateries, padel courts

    Dubai’s Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) district is undergoing a significant transformation as Lake D, one of its iconic water features, is being partially redeveloped into BAY360—an ambitious mixed-use waterfront destination. Master developer DMCC, in partnership with real estate firm Sweid & Sweid, confirmed the project will introduce premium amenities while preserving the majority of the original lake.

    The development will feature waterfront dining establishments, lifestyle retail outlets, wellness and medical facilities, alongside innovative rooftop padel courts and family-oriented outdoor spaces. A 22,000-square-foot Spinneys supermarket will serve as the commercial anchor, complemented by cafes and essential retail services.

    Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, emphasized that BAY360 represents strategic efforts to modernize JLT’s communal areas while maintaining the district’s distinctive character. “This initiative aims to strengthen community bonds and ensure JLT continues evolving as a premium residential and commercial destination,” he stated in exclusive comments to Khaleej Times.

    While initial drainage works raised concerns among residents about the loss of green space, developers clarified that only a portion of Lake D is being repurposed. The design intentionally integrates with existing waterfront features, enhancing lake edges with additional greenery, seating arrangements, and pedestrian walkways.

    Infrastructure improvements include a redesigned pedestrian avenue creating direct access from the Metro station to the lakeside area, plus a 300-space underground parking facility to accommodate increased visitation. The project is scheduled for completion by late 2027.

    Resident reactions reflect cautious optimism. R Mehta, a six-year JLT resident, noted: “The lakes define JLT’s identity. While we were initially surprised by the drainage, retaining most of the water body while adding thoughtful upgrades appears positive.” Another anonymous resident acknowledged reduced water surface area but expressed hope that DMCC’s track record of quality improvements would yield similar success.

    This development marks Sweid & Sweid’s third project within JLT, demonstrating continued investor confidence in the district’s growth potential and sustainable urban development.

  • Ex-South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol sentenced to life in insurrection trial

    Ex-South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol sentenced to life in insurrection trial

    In a landmark ruling that has captured national attention, Seoul Central District Court sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to life imprisonment on Thursday for orchestrating an insurrection and abusing presidential authority. The verdict concludes a highly watched trial in a nation grappling with deep political divisions.

    The court found Yoon guilty of attempting to impose martial law in December 2024, an action prosecutors characterized as “destroying the liberal democratic constitutional order” by undermining the National Assembly and Election Commission. While prosecutors had sought capital punishment, the court delivered a life sentence—the most severe judicial consequence yet for the ousted leader.

    The attempted martial law declaration, which lasted approximately six hours before being defeated by parliamentary vote and mass public protests, triggered a national political crisis that tested South Korea’s democratic institutions. The court additionally ruled on charges that Yoon ordered military forces to storm parliament, detain political opponents, and blockade opposition party facilities.

    Yoon, 65, maintained his innocence throughout proceedings, arguing that his actions fell within presidential authority and were necessary to address opposition parties’ obstruction of government functions. The conservative former prosecutor faces multiple legal battles, having already received a five-year sentence in January for obstructing authorities attempting to arrest him following the martial law attempt.

    Security was heightened around the courthouse with police buses forming protective cordons, reflecting the trial’s significance in a country that hasn’t executed anyone since 1997. Current President Lee Jae Myung commended the public’s resistance to martial law, suggesting the Korean people should be considered for a Nobel Peace Prize for their nonviolent opposition.

    Legal experts anticipate appeals that could extend the judicial process beyond the typical two-year timeframe for such cases, regardless of Thursday’s verdict.

  • Dh200,000 Big Ticket win for 4 expats from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan

    Dh200,000 Big Ticket win for 4 expats from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan

    In a life-changing moment for four foreign workers in the UAE, the Big Ticket Abu Dhabi’s February 2026 second weekly e-draw has awarded Dh200,000 collectively to expatriates from South Asian nations. Each winner received Dh50,000 as part of the popular raffle draw that has become a cultural phenomenon among the UAE’s expat community.

    The diverse group of winners represents a cross-section of the Gulf region’s migrant workforce. Riasat Khan from Pakistan finally achieved success after a decade of persistent participation, while Indian national Nibin K. Mathew found fortune after merely five months of trying. The other winners include Shiva Prasad Rijal from Nepal and Gregory Shomir Gomes, who currently resides in Qatar.

    Their winning journeys reflect distinct patterns of participation. Khan participated through two different groups over ten years, experiencing all series of draws from cash prizes to Dream Car competitions. Meanwhile, Mathew, a 36-year-old engineer from Kerala living in Abu Dhabi, joined a 20-member group just five months ago upon a friend’s recommendation.

    Group participation emerged as a common theme among winners. Rijal, a 39-year-old Dubai resident for 18 years, won as part of a 25-member company group that has been purchasing tickets collectively for four to five years. Gomes, heading a Project Support Office in Qatar, participated with 14 colleagues through monthly ticket purchases for four years.

    The winners expressed overwhelming joy and disbelief upon notification. Gomes nearly missed the life-changing call but discovered the win through email, prompting his group to verify the results officially before celebrating. Mathew described the moment as ‘overwhelming happiness’ for his first significant lottery win.

    All winners confirmed they would distribute the prize money among their respective groups while continuing to participate in future draws. Their plans for the winnings range from family support and shopping to reinforcing trust in the Big Ticket system. The February campaign continues with a Dh15 million grand prize scheduled for March 3, along with five consolation prizes of Dh100,000 each, maintaining the draw’s reputation as one of the region’s most rewarding monthly events.

  • ‘Hamnet’ to Tom Cruise’s ‘M:I’, are we seeing Chloé Zhao’s cinematic crossover?

    ‘Hamnet’ to Tom Cruise’s ‘M:I’, are we seeing Chloé Zhao’s cinematic crossover?

    Acclaimed filmmaker Chloé Zhao, fresh from her Golden Globe-winning success with ‘Hamnet,’ is reportedly being considered to direct the ninth installment of the Mission: Impossible franchise. This potential collaboration with Tom Cruise would mark a significant departure for both the Oscar-winning director and the long-running action series.

    Industry speculation intensified when celebrity news outlet Deuxmoi reported that Cruise had approached Zhao about either writing or directing the next chapter. While neither party has confirmed the discussions, the move would represent a strategic shift for the franchise following the perceived conclusion with last year’s ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.’

    Zhao’s directorial journey demonstrates remarkable versatility. After winning the Academy Award for Best Director for ‘Nomadland’ in 2020—becoming only the second woman to achieve this honor—she ventured into blockbuster territory with Marvel’s ‘Eternals’ in 2021. This experience in large-scale production could prove valuable should she take on the Mission: Impossible series, known for its elaborate stunts and high-octane action sequences.

    The franchise has been under the consistent direction of Christopher McQuarrie since 2015, making Zhao’s potential involvement particularly noteworthy. Financial considerations may be influencing this possible change: despite grossing approximately $600 million globally, ‘The Final Reckoning’ faced substantial production and marketing costs nearing $400 million, potentially prompting producers to seek fresh creative direction with budget consciousness.

    Tom Cruise remained characteristically enigmatic about the franchise’s future when questioned at last year’s Cannes Film Festival, preferring to focus on the current release rather than speculate about subsequent installments. As the industry watches for official confirmation, Zhao’s potential involvement signals an intriguing convergence of arthouse sensibility and mainstream action cinema.

  • S. Korea’s ex-president Yoon sentenced to life in prison on insurrection

    S. Korea’s ex-president Yoon sentenced to life in prison on insurrection

    In a landmark ruling that marks a dramatic fall from power, former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment for insurrection charges related to his declaration of emergency martial law. The Seoul Central District Court delivered its verdict Thursday in a proceeding broadcast live nationwide, creating a historic moment in South Korea’s democratic journey.

    The court determined that Yoon’s deployment of military forces to the National Assembly in December 2024 constituted a direct assault on constitutional order. Presiding judges emphasized that declaring martial law without legitimate cause—specifically absent war, incident, or equivalent national emergency—represented an unconstitutional power grab designed to subvert parliamentary authority.

    Prosecutors from the independent counsel team led by Cho Eun-suk had sought capital punishment for the ousted leader, arguing he orchestrated a systematic attempt to undermine South Korea’s democratic foundations. The court instead imposed life imprisonment, the maximum penalty short of execution for insurrection ringleaders under South Korean law.

    This case represents the third instance in South Korean history where a former president faced insurrection charges, following predecessors Chun Doo-hwan and Roh Tae-woo who were convicted for their roles in military coups and martial law crackdowns.

    The judicial proceedings revealed coordinated efforts between Yoon and senior security officials to obstruct parliamentary functions. Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun received a 30-year sentence for his central role in mobilizing military resources, while former Defense Intelligence Commander Noh Sang-won and former National Police Agency Commissioner Cho Ji-ho received 18 and 12-year terms respectively.

    The controversial martial law declaration occurred on December 3, 2024, but was revoked hours later through legislative action. This triggered a constitutional crisis that ultimately led to Yoon’s impeachment in April 2025 and subsequent indictment while in detention this past January.

    The court’s comprehensive ruling addressed eight defendants total, with all receiving significant sentences for their participation in what judges characterized as a deliberate attack on South Korea’s democratic institutions.

  • KPop stars scored the biggest global hit songs of 2025

    KPop stars scored the biggest global hit songs of 2025

    In an unprecedented shift for the global music industry, K-Pop artists have dominated the 2025 international charts according to newly released data from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI). BLACKPINK’s Rosé, in collaboration with Bruno Mars, achieved the year’s most-streamed single with “APT,” amassing over two billion streams worldwide.

    This milestone represents the first time a predominantly non-English language track has claimed the top position in the IFPI’s annual global chart since its inception in 2007. Although primarily performed in English, “APT” incorporates Korean elements, opening with spoken dialogue that translates to “Chaeyoung’s favourite random game. Random game. Game start,” and featuring a chorus repeating the word “아파트” (apateu), meaning “apartment.”

    The achievement marks another historic first as Rosé becomes the first artist from outside North America or Europe to top the global chart. IFPI CEO Victoria Oakley described the moment as “landmark” for the industry.

    Following closely in second place was “Golden” by Huntr/X, the animated girl group from Netflix’s popular series “KPop Demon Hunters.” The virtual ensemble is voiced by real-life artists Rei Ami, Audrey Nuna, and Ejae.

    American singer Alex Warren secured third place with “Ordinary,” while the Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga collaboration “Die With A Smile” took fourth position. Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” completed the top five, despite having topped the charts the previous year.

    The chart demonstrated remarkable staying power for older releases, with eight of the top ten singles having been released prior to 2025. For the second consecutive year, no British artists appeared in the top ten, though Lola Young reached eleventh place with her breakthrough single “Messy,” achieving over one billion streams.

    The continued influence of K-Pop was further evidenced by another “KPop Demon Hunters” entry—”Soda Pop” by rival boyband Saja Boys—appearing in the top twenty.

    Earlier industry reports confirmed Taylor Swift as 2025’s overall top global artist, though she appears only once in the singles chart at nineteenth position with “The Fate of Ophelia” from her album “The Life of a Showgirl.” The IFPI will release its annual album chart rankings later this week.

  • After fall, Gaon Choi wondered ‘Is this how it ends?’ But Olympic champion is just getting started

    After fall, Gaon Choi wondered ‘Is this how it ends?’ But Olympic champion is just getting started

    LIVIGNO, Italy — In a dramatic turn of events at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, 17-year-old South Korean snowboarder Gaon Choi transformed a potentially career-ending accident into a golden triumph. During her initial halfpipe run, Choi experienced a terrifying fall that left her momentarily believing her Olympic dreams had shattered.

    “I genuinely thought my knee was broken,” Choi revealed to The Associated Press after returning to South Korea. “Having envisioned this moment since childhood, the thought of it ending so abruptly overwhelmed me with emotion.”

    Despite the psychological and physical trauma, the young athlete demonstrated extraordinary resilience. Choi not only completed the competition but dethroned defending champion Chloe Kim to claim the Olympic gold medal in snowboarding’s premier event. Her victory marks a historic achievement as South Korea’s first gold-medal snowboarder.

    The podium moment carried profound emotional complexity for Choi, who described Kim as both mentor and sister-like figure. “The experience evoked mixed feelings—some regret and apology, but overwhelming happiness that made the achievement particularly meaningful,” Choi reflected.

    Choi’s snowboarding journey began unexpectedly at age seven when her father initially purchased skis for her, contrary to the snowboards he bought for her older siblings. Her insistence on equal treatment launched a decade-long path to Olympic glory.

    Despite the significance of her accomplishment, the event wasn’t televised live in South Korea, where winter sports attention typically focuses on speedskating and curling. Nonetheless, Choi gained recognition unexpectedly when flight attendants identified her during her return journey.

    The new champion believes her performance didn’t fully showcase her prepared routine due to the early injury. “I aim to train more intensively, perfect my execution, and ultimately present the run I’ve envisioned,” she stated.

    Olympic observers also noted emerging talents who may dominate future competitions:

    – Japan’s Taiga Hasegawa, 20, earned silver in slopestyle and emphasizes fundamental riding skills alongside technical tricks
    – New Zealand’s Cam Melville Ives, 19, demonstrated exceptional triple cork maneuvers but encountered spatial limitations in the halfpipe
    – American Ollie Martin, 17, made history as the youngest athlete to land a 2160-degree rotation and impressed with his fourth-place big air finish

    These athletes represent snowboarding’s evolving landscape as the sport concludes its Livigno chapter and looks toward future competitions in Aspen and Laax.

  • UAE rental market begins to move beyond cheque-based payments

    UAE rental market begins to move beyond cheque-based payments

    The United Arab Emirates’ rental market is undergoing a fundamental transformation as innovative payment solutions challenge the long-established dominance of cheque-based transactions. For years, new residents in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have faced the surprising requirement to provide between one and four post-dated cheques covering annual rent—a practice that creates significant financial planning challenges for tenants who typically receive monthly salaries.

    This structural mismatch between income cycles and rental payments has prompted the emergence of new financial models that allow tenants to pay monthly while ensuring landlords still receive the full annual amount upfront. The evolution is supported by developing infrastructure, including the integration of Dubai’s Ejari tenancy registration system with the UAE Direct Debit System (UAEDDS), which enables scheduled rental payments directly through bank accounts.

    Real estate platforms are simultaneously expanding beyond their traditional listing functions into transaction services. Companies like MyQasr are exploring integrated rent collection, digital contract management, and income verification tools that require closer collaboration with financial institutions. This shift toward transaction-focused services represents a significant evolution in how property platforms operate within the market.

    A particularly notable development involves non-card-based monthly payment solutions that address the needs of residents without extensive local credit histories. These models aim to resolve two persistent issues: tenants’ struggle to align large payments with monthly income cycles, and landlords’ need for financial security without assuming installment risk.

    The transformation extends to other sectors of the property market, with short-term rental operators competing through more flexible payout options and lower commission rates. Simultaneously, the convergence of real estate with digital assets is gaining traction, with tokenization enabling fractional property ownership and improved liquidity—all within Dubai’s regulatory framework for digital assets.

    Mortgage integration is also advancing, with platforms working to embed pre-approval processes directly into property search journeys. This reflects growing consumer expectation for earlier digital affordability assessments rather than late-stage financial verification.

    As these changes unfold, industry observers emphasize the importance of transparency regarding costs, fee structures, termination conditions, and data handling practices. The ultimate success of these innovations will depend on their ability to genuinely reduce market friction without introducing new complexities or risks to tenants and landlords alike.

  • Tucker Carlson interrogated in Israel, passport seized after US ambassador interview

    Tucker Carlson interrogated in Israel, passport seized after US ambassador interview

    Prominent US conservative commentator Tucker Carlson reported being detained and questioned by Israeli security personnel shortly after conducting an interview with US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. The incident occurred as Carlson and his production team attempted to depart from Israel on Wednesday.

    According to Carlson’s account to the Daily Mail, individuals identifying as airport security officials confiscated the team’s passports and separated his executive producer for interrogation regarding the nature of their conversation with Ambassador Huckabee. Carlson characterized the encounter as ‘bizarre’ but confirmed his team subsequently left the country without further incident.

    The detention followed a publicly contentious exchange between Carlson and Huckabee regarding Israel’s treatment of Christian communities. Carlson had previously criticized what he described as ‘shocking’ harassment of Christians by Orthodox Jews, including physical intimidation, property damage, cemetery desecration, and disruption of religious services.

    This diplomatic friction occurs against the backdrop of Carlson’s increasingly vocal criticism of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which he has repeatedly characterized as genocidal. His commentary has positioned him as a significant conservative voice challenging Israel’s influence on US politics, particularly since the October 2023 conflict escalation.

    The US Embassy in Israel issued a statement defending the security procedures as standard protocol for all visitors, emphasizing that Carlson ‘received the same passport control questions that countless visitors to Israel receive.’ Embassy representatives denied allegations of selective treatment, stating Carlson received ‘the same positive treatment of any visitors to Israel.’

    Israeli media outlet Channel 13 reported that authorities had initially considered denying Carlson entry to avoid potential controversy, but ultimately permitted his visit to prevent a ‘diplomatic incident.’ The episode highlights growing tensions within Republican circles regarding US-Israel relations, Washington’s financial support for Israeli military operations, and concerns about escalating regional conflicts.

  • University of Birmingham Dubai admissions open: Secure your place for September

    University of Birmingham Dubai admissions open: Secure your place for September

    The University of Birmingham Dubai has officially commenced admissions for September 2026 intake, inviting students to join its cutting-edge smart campus in Dubai International Academic City. As the first Russell Group university (UK’s equivalent to Ivy League) to establish a campus in Dubai’s education hub, the institution brings its prestigious legacy ranked among the top 100 global universities (QS 2025) to the Middle East.

    The newly constructed state-of-the-art campus represents a significant advancement in higher education infrastructure, designed to accommodate 2,900 students while prioritizing sustainability and digital innovation. In partnership with Siemens, the campus incorporates advanced technology to create a ‘Living Lab’ environment where research, teaching, and learning converge through real-time data access and global connectivity.

    The campus architecture emphasizes collaborative learning with flexible study spaces and a ‘digital first’ approach that enables seamless international cooperation with students across the university’s UK and Singapore campuses. This global interconnectedness provides students with invaluable experience working on international projects that mirror contemporary professional environments.

    Beyond physical infrastructure, the university integrates its technological capabilities directly into the curriculum across disciplines, with industry partners engaging through research projects, consultancy opportunities, and student internships. This industry-academia collaboration ensures graduates develop the skills, knowledge, and expertise required to excel in evolving global job markets.

    The institution’s commitment to sustainability is embedded throughout campus operations, establishing new standards for environmental responsibility in higher education while creating an adaptive environment responsive to technological and climatic changes.

    Prospective students can experience the campus firsthand through Open Days, with the university highlighting its comprehensive career services that have successfully placed students in prestigious internships and professional networking opportunities. As the admissions period opens, the University of Birmingham Dubai positions itself as a transformative educational destination preparing students for global leadership roles.