Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Destination Dubai Expo strengthens Study Dubai momentum across India through successful roadshow

    Destination Dubai Expo strengthens Study Dubai momentum across India through successful roadshow

    Dubai has significantly advanced its educational diplomacy efforts across India with the successful completion of its second multi-city Destination Dubai Expo roadshow in February 2026. The initiative, part of the Study Dubai government program, strategically engaged prospective students and families in Kolkata (February 2), Pune (February 4), and Bhopal (February 8), showcasing the emirate’s rapidly expanding higher education ecosystem.

    The government-backed initiative represents a collaborative effort between the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), TECOM Group, and Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET). Curated by Dubai-based Brand Grayscale, the roadshow provided a strategic platform connecting Dubai’s internationally recognized universities with Indian students, parents, and education counselors.

    Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA, emphasized Dubai’s unique educational value proposition: ‘Dubai offers international students more than a degree – it offers opportunity. Through globally recognized universities, strong industry connections, and a safe, diverse, and future-focused environment, students can pursue education aligned with their ambitions while building skills that contribute to Dubai’s economy and long-term growth.’

    The participating institutions—including the American University in Dubai, University of Birmingham, Middlesex University, University of Wollongong, and several other prestigious universities—highlighted Dubai’s advantages: globally accredited programs, robust industry linkages, post-study career opportunities, and a vibrant multicultural student experience. Dubai’s geographic proximity to India and student-friendly visa ecosystem further positions it as an attractive international education destination close to home for Indian students.

    The event featured curated one-to-one interactions, structured discussions, and focused information sessions that provided comprehensive insights into academic opportunities and student life in Dubai. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s Education 33 strategy, which aims to create an integrated ecosystem where learning, innovation, and real-world experience converge to prepare students for evolving global challenges.

  • Pakistan to pay over $700,000 to compensate families of victims in mosque attack

    Pakistan to pay over $700,000 to compensate families of victims in mosque attack

    The Pakistani government has initiated substantial compensation payments totaling over $700,000 to families affected by the devastating suicide bombing that targeted a Shiite mosque in Islamabad earlier this month. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office confirmed Thursday that relief checks have been distributed to the heirs of 36 victims from the capital region, with additional payments being processed for four families residing outside Islamabad.

    The February 6 attack, which occurred during Friday prayers when mosques typically experience peak attendance, represents the deadliest assault on the capital since the 2008 Marriott Hotel bombing that claimed 60 lives. The Islamic State (Daesh) has claimed responsibility for the latest tragedy, which marks the first official acknowledgment of 40 fatalities despite previous uncertainty surrounding the final death toll.

    Each victim’s family is receiving approximately $17,800 (5 million Pakistani rupees) in government compensation. This attack underscores the persistent security challenges facing Pakistan’s religious minorities, particularly the Shiite community that constitutes 10-15% of the predominantly Sunni nation’s population.

    The bombing occurs against a backdrop of escalating militant violence across Pakistan’s border regions with Afghanistan. Official statistics reveal that 2025 witnessed 1,235 fatalities from militant assaults, including 825 security personnel and 400 civilians, with 27 suicide attacks reported nationwide. This incident follows a November suicide blast outside an Islamabad court that killed 12 people, ending a nearly three-year period of relative calm in the capital.

  • Ramadan 2026: Saudi’s Prophet Mosque announces new timings for visiting Rawdah

    Ramadan 2026: Saudi’s Prophet Mosque announces new timings for visiting Rawdah

    Saudi authorities have unveiled specialized visitation schedules for the spiritually significant Rawdah area within Medina’s Prophet Mosque during Ramadan 2026. The sacred space, alternatively known as Riyazul Jannah (Gardens of Paradise), occupies the historical ground between the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the minbar from which he delivered sermons.

    This hallowed ground features six pillars marking the exact locations where original date palm trunk columns stood during the Prophet’s lifetime. Due to its profound spiritual importance and consistent visitor congestion, mosque management has implemented strict crowd control measures and time-specific access periods throughout the holy month.

    The visitation schedule operates in two distinct phases: the first twenty days of Ramadan and the final ten days. During the initial period, men may access the Rawdah from 11:00 PM to 1:40 AM and again from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM, while women have allocated times from 11:20 AM to 8:00 PM and 2:00 AM to 5:00 AM.

    For the concluding ten days, women’s access shifts to mornings from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Men receive three visitation windows: 11:20 AM to 8:00 PM, 11:00 PM to midnight, and 2:00 AM to 5:00 AM.

    All visitors must secure advance appointments through the official Nusuk application platform. These measures aim to facilitate spiritual observance while ensuring visitor safety and preserving the sanctity of one of Islam’s most revered sites during Ramadan’s heightened devotional activities.

  • Philippine VP Sara Duterte faces fourth impeachment amid 2028 presidential bid

    Philippine VP Sara Duterte faces fourth impeachment amid 2028 presidential bid

    Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte confronts her fourth impeachment complaint this year, marking a significant escalation in political challenges following her announcement to pursue the presidency in 2028. The allegations center on the purported mishandling of 612.5 million Philippine pesos (approximately $39 million USD) in confidential funds during her initial 18 months in office commencing July 2022.

    Documentation reveals an extraordinary expenditure pattern, with 500 million pesos allegedly depleted within merely 11 days in December 2022. Official reports indicate these funds were primarily allocated for rental properties designated as ‘safety houses.’ Additionally, the Department of Education’s confidential allocation of 112.5 million pesos was reportedly transferred to Duterte’s security personnel by special disbursing officer Edward Fajarda.

    The Commission on Audit has formally disallowed at least 73 million pesos from these expenditures, citing insufficient accountability measures. Investigators have identified numerous acknowledgment receipts issued to non-existent recipients, including one ‘Mary Grace Piattos’ who appears in no official government records.

    Beyond financial irregularities, the impeachment articles reference Duterte’s alleged disrespect for congressional oversight authority and connection to extrajudicial killings during her tenure as Davao City mayor under her father’s presidency. Most explosively, the complaints cite documented claims that Duterte maintained readiness to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.

    The latest complaint, formally submitted by lawyer Nathaniel Cabrera with legislative endorsement, now awaits procedural inclusion in the plenary agenda by March 2nd. Philippines’ impeachment mechanisms require substantial political support to advance, often allowing officials with strong parliamentary alliances to avoid full trials despite serious allegations.

  • Seeking fatwa during Ramadan? UAE authority reveals methods for consultation

    Seeking fatwa during Ramadan? UAE authority reveals methods for consultation

    The United Arab Emirates has implemented a structured religious consultation system to assist Muslims in navigating complex religious questions during Ramadan. The UAE Council for Fatwa has announced specific operational hours and multiple communication channels for residents seeking authoritative Islamic rulings throughout the holy month.

    From Saturday through Thursday, religious guidance services will be available from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Friday consultations will operate during two distinct sessions: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The Council emphasizes that all religious rulings adhere to a rigorously scholarly methodology and maintain a balanced, moderate juristic approach.

    Residents can access fatwa services through four primary methods: SMS messaging to number 2535, official website consultations at fatwauae.gov.ae, WhatsApp communications at 8002422, and telephone consultations through the same number.

    Separately, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments & Zakat operates a dedicated call center (8008222) for zakat-related inquiries. These services are available Monday through Thursday from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with Friday operations from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

    The announcement comes alongside the recent launch of the National Zakat Platform, a landmark initiative designed to systematize the collection and distribution of zakat payments. This institutional, data-driven system enhances transparency and ensures charitable funds reach appropriate beneficiaries efficiently.

    Zakat, a fundamental pillar of Islam, requires Muslims to contribute 2.5% of their qualifying annual wealth and savings held for a full lunar year. This obligation extends to various assets including savings accounts, gold, silver, investment income, and business assets.

  • 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.