Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • UAE jobs: 7 out of 10 employees plan to look for new roles in 2026

    UAE jobs: 7 out of 10 employees plan to look for new roles in 2026

    The United Arab Emirates is experiencing a significant transformation in its employment landscape, with a remarkable 72% of the workforce actively planning to seek new positions in 2026. This trend emerges amidst growing competition and increasing complexity in the hiring process, according to recent data from LinkedIn’s comprehensive survey of the Emirates’ job market.

    Current statistics reveal that 65% of UAE employees report increased difficulty in securing employment compared to the previous year, while 63% attribute this challenge primarily to heightened competition. Paradoxically, despite these market pressures, 74% of workers express satisfaction with their current roles while simultaneously anticipating a highly competitive job environment in the coming year.

    Demographic expansion plays a crucial role in this employment dynamic. Official figures indicate the UAE’s population surged from 11.02 million at the end of 2024 to 11.52 million in 2025, representing substantial growth of nearly two million residents over the past five years. This population boom has created a corresponding increase in job seekers competing for available positions.

    The nation’s strategic economic shift toward knowledge-based industries has simultaneously driven demand for white-collar and highly skilled professionals. This transition creates a unique market situation where three out of four hiring professionals report increased difficulty in identifying qualified candidates, indicating pressure on both sides of the employment equation.

    Ali Matar, LinkedIn’s Emerging Markets Leader for EMEA, commented: ‘UAE professionals rank among the most digitally advanced globally, yet they’re navigating an exceptionally rapid evolution in hiring practices.’

    LinkedIn’s research provides strategic recommendations for job seekers:

    • Embrace market responsiveness by monitoring industry trends and identifying necessary skills
    • Utilize AI-powered tools for efficient job matching and application processes
    • Maintain updated professional profiles with verified credentials
    • Leverage LinkedIn’s Premium features to highlight strong interest in specific positions
    • Cultivate professional networks to uncover unexpected opportunities
    • Explore emerging roles through LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise platform with detailed market insights

    This employment landscape reflects the complex interplay between demographic growth, economic transformation, and evolving professional expectations in one of the Middle East’s most dynamic economies.

  • Community memory clinics help aging minds stay connected

    Community memory clinics help aging minds stay connected

    Across Beijing’s neighborhoods, a quiet revolution in elderly cognitive care is unfolding through community-based memory clinics. These facilities are bringing essential dementia screening and intervention services directly to residential areas, eliminating the need for arduous cross-city hospital journeys that once characterized cognitive care for seniors.

    At Hepingli Community Health Service Center, 88-year-old residents now participate in weekly cognitive training sessions featuring specialized activities like jigsaw puzzles, computer-based reaction games, and group reading exercises. This represents a dramatic shift from previous years when accessing specialized neurological care required traveling for hours to top-tier urban hospitals.

    The establishment of these clinics responds to China’s pressing demographic reality: with over 310 million citizens aged 60 and above—representing more than one-fifth of the total population—and an estimated 53 million experiencing cognitive impairment, the healthcare system requires innovative solutions. Cognitive impairment encompasses symptoms affecting memory, language, and reasoning, with Alzheimer’s disease constituting the most prevalent form of severe cognitive decline.

    Dr. Han Ying, neurologist at Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University, emphasizes that while Alzheimer’s remains incurable, early intervention can significantly alter its trajectory. “Early detection before obvious symptoms emerge can delay onset by up to five years,” she explains, “potentially allowing patients to maintain normal cognitive function throughout their lifetimes.”

    Despite this medical consensus, societal barriers persist. Stigma and misconceptions that attribute early symptoms to normal aging mean only approximately 20% of dementia patients in China receive formal diagnoses. Community clinics address both medical and accessibility challenges, offering regular assessments during free senior health check-ups and providing referral pathways to specialized hospitals when necessary.

    Beijing currently operates over 20 such facilities with plans to expand to 100 by 2030. Other regions including Shanghai and Guangdong province have implemented similar initiatives, while private institutions like Sunbow Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital have recently launched comprehensive memory clinics offering full-cycle care from screening to long-term follow-up.

    However, significant disparities remain. Rural healthcare institutions face staffing shortages, equipment limitations, and inadequate support systems that hinder similar implementations. Dr. Li Jianguo, deputy director at Hepingli Center, notes that expanding these services nationwide will require substantial time and resources despite the government’s 2024 action plan targeting over 50% medical consultation rates for suspected cognitive impairment cases by 2030.

    Beyond clinical functions, these spaces have evolved into social hubs where seniors combat isolation through collective activities. Eighty-six-year-old Ms. Feng, whose children live elsewhere, particularly values the community aspect: “I love chatting with everyone—it’s so lively. It makes me feel young again.”

    Medical professionals confirm this social component delivers therapeutic benefits. “Active participation in intellectual and social activities helps slow further brain decline,” notes Dr. Zhu Jie of the memory clinic. As China continues addressing its aging population’s needs, these community-based solutions represent a critical step toward preserving cognitive health while maintaining human dignity and connection.

  • Iran blames US and Israel for unrest as Tehran says protests are ‘under control’

    Iran blames US and Israel for unrest as Tehran says protests are ‘under control’

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has launched a forceful condemnation of the United States, alleging deliberate instigation of violent unrest amid nationwide protests that have resulted in a near-total internet blackout and significant casualties. Speaking on Monday, Araqchi asserted that while the situation remained “under total control,” Washington had actively encouraged violence through threatening rhetoric against Tehran.

    The diplomatic official claimed President Donald Trump’s public warnings had effectively prompted armed groups to target both demonstrators and security forces in an attempt to justify foreign intervention. Iranian authorities purportedly possess footage showing weapons being distributed on streets and intend to release detainee confessions shortly.

    Araqchi characterized the protests, which erupted on December 28 initially over economic grievances, as having been transformed into a “terrorist war against the country” with assistance from foreign intelligence agencies including Israel’s Mossad. He maintained security forces initially exercised restraint until “armed terrorist” groups infiltrated legitimate demonstrations.

    According to Iran Human Rights, a Norway-based NGO, at least 192 people have died in the most significant anti-government protests in over three years. Official death tolls from Iranian authorities remain unavailable, and independent verification remains impossible amid the communication blackout.

    The cyber isolation entered its fourth day, with monitoring group NetBlocks confirming a “national internet blackout” with only minimal, unstable connectivity. This digital curtain has severely limited information flow both within and outside the country.

    Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a sharp response to Trump’s rhetoric through social media, drawing historical parallels to arrogant rulers who were “overthrown when they were at the height of their pride.”

    The United Nations has called for restraint, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressing concern over reports of “violence & excessive use of force” while urging restoration of internet services. Meanwhile, Washington is reportedly considering coercive measures including cyber attacks, enhanced sanctions, and potential military strikes.

    Iranian Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf issued a stark warning against American aggression, stating that any attack would make Israeli territories and all US bases and ships “legitimate targets.” State media has called for nationwide rallies to denounce what authorities describe as “terrorist actions led by the United States and Israel.”

  • Internet service to be resumed in Iran, FM Araqchi says

    Internet service to be resumed in Iran, FM Araqchi says

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi declared on Monday that internet services would be restored across Iran following an extensive 84-hour nationwide communications blackout. The announcement came amid heightened tensions with the United States and internal unrest.

    Minister Araqchi stated that internet restoration would be implemented ‘in coordination with security authorities,’ suggesting the government maintains cautious control over the process. The communications shutdown, one of the longest in Iran’s recent history, had severed digital connectivity for millions of citizens and businesses throughout the country.

    The development occurs against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously indicated his intention to consult with billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk regarding potential solutions to restore internet access in Iran, though no specific collaboration details were provided.

    Araqchi additionally addressed the weekend’s surge in protest-related violence, asserting through English translation that authorities had brought the situation under ‘total control.’ In a significant accusation, the Foreign Minister claimed that President Trump’s warnings to Tehran about potential foreign intervention should protests turn violent had inadvertently encouraged ‘terrorists’ to target both protesters and security forces.

    Concluding with a diplomatic dual-track approach, Araqchi emphasized Iran’s preparedness for both conflict and negotiation, stating: ‘We are ready for war but also for dialogue.’ This positioning suggests Tehran’s attempt to balance military readiness with diplomatic openness amid ongoing regional tensions.

  • Guangzhou’s bald cypress trees turn red after cold snap

    Guangzhou’s bald cypress trees turn red after cold snap

    A remarkable natural transformation has unfolded across Guangzhou’s urban landscape as an unexpected cold snap triggered the dramatic color change of the city’s bald cypress trees. The metropolitan areas surrounding Donghu Lake and various parklands have become adorned with striking russet-red foliage, creating an unexpected winter spectacle that has drawn substantial crowds of nature enthusiasts and photographers.

    The botanical phenomenon represents a fascinating response to environmental conditions. Native to North American wetlands, the bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) undergoes a distinctive seasonal metamorphosis where its needle-like leaves transition through a chromatic sequence from vibrant green to golden yellow before achieving their final copper-red hue prior to winter dormancy. This color transformation typically spans approximately one month, creating a temporary but breathtaking visual display against Guangzhou’s urban backdrop.

    Meteorological experts attribute this particularly vivid coloration to the recent intrusion of cold air masses from northern regions, which accelerated the biochemical processes within the foliage. The trees’ response to temperature fluctuations involves the breakdown of chlorophyll and subsequent revelation of anthocyanin pigments, resulting in the intense crimson coloration that has captivated local residents.

    The unexpected natural display has generated significant public interest, with visitation numbers surging at major urban green spaces throughout the weekend. Park authorities have reported increased attendance as citizens seek to witness the unusual winter coloration before the leaves complete their seasonal cycle and fall from the branches, marking the trees’ transition into their characteristic winter bareness.

  • ‘One Battle,’ ‘Hamnet’ take top honours at Hollywood’s Golden Globes ceremony

    ‘One Battle,’ ‘Hamnet’ take top honours at Hollywood’s Golden Globes ceremony

    The 2026 Golden Globes ceremony, held in Beverly Hills, California, on Sunday, marked a triumphant commencement to Hollywood’s annual awards season. In a night of celebrated achievements, the dark comedy ‘One Battle After Another’ secured the award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, while the Shakespearean grief narrative ‘Hamnet’ claimed the top honor for Best Motion Picture – Drama.

    A highlight of the evening was Timothée Chalamet’s victory in one of the most fiercely contested categories. He was awarded Best Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for his portrayal of a professional table tennis player in ‘Marty Supreme.’ Overcoming esteemed nominees including Leonardo DiCaprio and George Clooney, Chalamet expressed profound gratitude. He acknowledged the strength of the category, stating to his fellow nominees, ‘I look up to all of you.’ The actor also reflected on past losses, noting, ‘I’d be lying if I didn’t say those moments made this moment that much sweeter.’

    The ceremony also introduced new accolades. The podcast ‘Good Hang with Amy Poehler’ won the inaugural Golden Globe for Best Podcast. Poehler, upon accepting the award, described the show’s mission as ‘an attempt to try to make a very rough and unkind world filled with a little bit more love and laughter, and laughing with people, not at them.’

    In the music category, ‘Golden,’ the infectious theme from the Netflix animated sensation ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters,’ was named Best Original Song. Korean-American singer Ejae delivered an inspiring acceptance speech, proclaiming, ‘It’s never too late to shine like you were born to.’

    Host Nikki Glaser provided a stream of light-hearted commentary throughout the event, quipping that the Globes were ‘without a doubt the most important thing that’s happening in the world right now.’ Her monologue included playful jabs at attendees, including a joked apology to Leonardo DiCaprio for a ‘cheap’ remark about his dating history.

    As one of the first major award ceremonies of the season, the Golden Globes, decided by over 300 international entertainment journalists, are widely regarded as a significant indicator of momentum leading up to the film industry’s most prestigious event, the Academy Awards, scheduled for March.

  • Son of ousted Iran shah urges security forces to ‘stand with people’

    Son of ousted Iran shah urges security forces to ‘stand with people’

    Reza Pahlavi, the US-based son of Iran’s deposed monarch, has issued a compelling appeal to Iranian government employees and security personnel, urging them to align with the burgeoning protest movement against the Islamic Republic. The exiled royal figure delivered his message through social media channels on Sunday, presenting security forces with a stark ethical choice.

    Pahlavi’s declaration emphasized that state employees and military personnel must decide between supporting the Iranian populace or becoming accomplices to what he termed ‘murderers of the people.’ His statement followed disturbing reports from human rights organizations alleging that Iranian authorities were implementing extreme measures, including ‘mass killing’ operations, to quell ongoing civil unrest.

    The opposition leader, who has emerged as a significant figurehead for the anti-regime movement, further advocated for the symbolic replacement of Islamic Republic flags outside Iranian diplomatic missions worldwide. He specifically called for the restoration of the pre-1979 revolutionary tricolor banner, describing the current standard as ‘disgraceful.’

    This symbolic gesture gained tangible momentum in London over the weekend, where protesters successfully replaced the Iranian embassy flag with the historical monarchical standard. The diplomatic incident prompted Iran’s foreign ministry to summon Britain’s ambassador to Tehran in formal protest, as reported by the official IRNA news outlet.

    The pre-revolutionary flag has transformed into a powerful emblem for international demonstrations supporting Iran’s domestic protest movement, representing growing global solidarity with those challenging the current regime.

  • Iran protests: Bodies pile up at mortuary outside Tehran

    Iran protests: Bodies pile up at mortuary outside Tehran

    Disturbing video evidence emerging from Iran has revealed a grim accumulation of bodies at a mortuary facility south of Tehran, with human rights organizations identifying the deceased as victims of the government’s violent suppression of ongoing nationwide protests. The footage, which first surfaced online on Saturday and was subsequently geolocated and authenticated by AFP on Sunday, depicts dozens of corpses wrapped in black body bags lining the ground outside the Forensic Diagnostic and Laboratory Center of Tehran Province in Kahrizak.

    The visual documentation shows what appear to be grieving family members searching through the remains for missing relatives, creating a harrowing scene of collective mourning. The emergence of this evidence coincides with a near-total internet blackout imposed by authorities, which activists say has been used to conceal the true scale of violence against demonstrators.

    Norway-based monitoring groups have sounded alarms about the footage’s implications. Iran Human Rights (IHR) stated the video provides visual confirmation of ‘a large number of people killed during the nationwide protests in Iran.’ Simultaneously, the Hengaw Organization reported verifying footage showing ‘dozens of bloodied bodies both inside and outside the Kahrizak mortuary,’ which they characterize as evidence of ‘an extensive and severe crime.’

    Security forces stand accused of employing live ammunition against protesters during two weeks of sustained demonstrations, with activists fearing the death toll may already number in the hundreds. The mortuary footage represents the first tangible evidence emerging from behind the information blockade, suggesting a significantly higher casualty count than officially acknowledged.

  • Chinese astronauts conduct key training, experiments on space station

    Chinese astronauts conduct key training, experiments on space station

    China’s Tiangong space station has become a hub of advanced scientific activity and critical operational training as the Shenzhou XXI crew demonstrates remarkable progress in both research and mission preparedness. The astronauts have successfully concluded an intensive series of specialized drills and groundbreaking experiments that significantly enhance China’s capabilities in sustained space operations.

    The comprehensive training regimen, documented in a recent China Media Group broadcast, featured sophisticated simulations including teleoperated rendezvous and docking procedures, medical emergency response protocols, and rapid evacuation exercises. These drills were meticulously designed to optimize crew performance and ensure operational readiness during extended periods in microgravity environments.

    In the teleoperation training segment, astronauts mastered manual control systems to execute precise spacecraft guidance maneuvers. Concurrently, medical preparedness exercises focused on equipment familiarization and emergency response coordination, ensuring crew members can effectively address potential health crises aboard the station.

    The training culminated in an ambitious emergency evacuation drill simulating critical scenarios requiring immediate module abandonment, testing both system redundancies and human response capabilities under pressure.

    Beyond operational training, the crew achieved significant milestones in space science research. Pioneering investigations in space medicine utilized virtual reality interfaces combined with electroencephalogram technology to study neurovisual coordination mechanisms in weightless conditions. This research provides unprecedented insights into brain function adaptation during spaceflight and contributes valuable data for developing advanced brain-computer interface technologies.

    Simultaneously, the crew advanced materials science through innovative in-situ optical analysis of lithium-ion battery electrochemical processes. These investigations deliver crucial theoretical foundations for developing next-generation energy storage systems optimized for space exploration applications.

    The Shenzhou XXI mission, launched from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on October 31, 2025, represents China’s continued advancement in human spaceflight capabilities. The crew previously completed China’s seventh in-orbit crew rotation and conducted their first extravehicular activities in December, demonstrating the program’s growing sophistication in long-duration space operations.

  • Dubai gold prices at record high; 24K reaches Dh550 per gram

    Dubai gold prices at record high; 24K reaches Dh550 per gram

    Dubai’s gold market witnessed unprecedented price surges on Monday morning as 24-karat gold reached a historic high of Dh550.25 per gram, according to data released by the Dubai Jewellery Group. The remarkable rally saw 24K gold climbing Dh7 per gram while 22K gold simultaneously increased by Dh6.5 to reach Dh509.5 per gram.

    The price escalation extended across all variants, with 21K gold rising to Dh488.75, 18K to Dh418.75, and 14K to Dh326.75 per gram. This domestic surge mirrored global trends where spot gold breached the psychological barrier of $4,600 per ounce for the first time in history, trading at $4,568.13 with a 1.31 percent increase at 9am UAE time.

    Multiple geopolitical and economic factors are driving this bullion boom. Market analysts attribute the surge to heightened safe-haven demand amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with President Donald Trump threatening military action in response to protests within the Persian nation. Simultaneously, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s revelation that he faces federal criminal investigation regarding the central bank’s $2.5 billion headquarters renovation has created additional market uncertainty.

    Powell characterized the investigation as a governmental ‘pretext’ designed to pressure the Federal Reserve into implementing rate cuts. These combined factors have intensified investor anxiety, reinforcing gold’s status as a preferred asset during periods of economic instability and geopolitical turmoil.