Dubai is taking a bold step toward transforming its real estate sector into a high-tech hub through a groundbreaking partnership between the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and the Dubai Land Department (DLD). This collaboration, part of DFF’s Sandbox Dubai initiative, aims to foster innovation in property technology (PropTech) by creating a regulatory environment that accelerates the adoption of emerging technologies. The initiative seeks to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility of Dubai’s real estate market while positioning the city as a global leader in smart urban development. The PropTech Sandbox will serve as a testing ground for cutting-edge solutions, enabling tech companies, startups, and government entities to collaborate on developing agile regulatory frameworks and policies. Key focus areas include AI-driven analytics, smart building management tools, and data-driven decision-making. Omar Bu Shehab, Director-General of DLD, emphasized that this initiative is laying the foundation for a future-ready smart city, where technology plays a pivotal role in advancing market regulation, data management, and community integration. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of DFF, highlighted the partnership’s role in strengthening Dubai’s future readiness by leveraging collaboration between government, private sector, and academic institutions. The project aims to boost the real estate sector’s contribution to Dubai’s GDP, reduce operating costs, streamline mortgage approvals, and create new job opportunities in PropTech. By providing a platform for innovation, Dubai is poised to elevate its global leadership in real estate technology.
标签： North America
北美洲
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The Christian converts the US is deporting back to Iran
In a troubling turn of events, Iranian Christian converts seeking asylum in the United States are facing deportation back to Iran, where they fear persecution and imprisonment. One such individual, Danesh (a pseudonym), fled Iran in October 2024 after enduring repeated detentions and alleged torture due to his involvement in the Mahsa Amini protests and subsequent conversion to Christianity. Despite being granted protection from removal by an immigration judge, Danesh was forcibly moved from a Texas detention center to a military airfield in Louisiana and placed on a deportation flight to Nicaragua. From there, he was routed through Venezuela and Turkey, ultimately fearing a forced return to Iran. Danesh managed to escape in Istanbul, but his story is not unique. Several Iranian Christian converts have reported similar experiences, with their asylum claims rejected and sensitive information about their religious conversions allegedly mishandled by US authorities. This situation contrasts sharply with President Trump’s vocal condemnation of Christian persecution abroad, particularly in Nigeria. The US has recently made unprecedented changes to its immigration policy, including arranging a chartered flight to Iran via Qatar, despite the lack of diplomatic ties and Iran’s poor human rights record. Dozens of Iranians, including the wife of an Iranian Christian convert now living in the US, were deported on this flight. Upon arrival, they were questioned about their religious activities, though not immediately arrested. However, the wife has since been summoned by Iranian intelligence, heightening fears for her safety. Legal experts and advocates argue that the US immigration system is failing to adequately assess the risks faced by Iranian Christian converts, leading to inconsistent asylum outcomes even within the same household. For example, Marjan, a Christian convert, was granted asylum in California, while her husband, Reza, was ordered to be removed to a third country. As the US continues its crackdown on illegal immigration, the plight of Iranian Christian converts highlights the complexities and potential dangers of deportation policies.
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Team Elphaba or Team Glinda? Here’s how to nail the perfect outfit for either side
As the highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of the Broadway musical *Wicked: For Good* hits theaters, fashion enthusiasts are embracing the iconic styles of its protagonists, Elphaba and Glinda. The film, a sequel to the stage adaptation of Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel *Wicked*, continues the story of the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch of the South, played by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, respectively. The narrative blurs the lines between good and evil, but the costume design leaves no room for ambiguity. Elphaba’s signature black ensembles contrast sharply with Glinda’s pastel pink wardrobe, symbolizing their moral dichotomies. Oscar-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell explains, ‘Colours confirm who is good, and who is wicked.’ Yet, he adds depth to the characters, noting that Elphaba is ‘intelligent, compassionate, misunderstood,’ while Glinda ‘isn’t always kind.’ This nuanced portrayal has inspired a wave of fashion trends, with emerald green and glittering pink dominating the party season. From Dubai-based brand 1001 Stories’ updated Wizard of Oz ballet flats to Sophia Webster’s official *Wicked* collection, fans can choose between Team Elphaba’s edgy sophistication and Team Glinda’s ethereal elegance. Whether it’s vegan leather blazers or sparkling crystal pumps, the film’s influence extends beyond the screen, proving that fashion can be as magical as the story itself.
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‘I’ll be cheering for him’: Takeaways from Trump and Mamdani’s surprisingly cordial meeting
In an unexpected turn of events, former U.S. President Donald Trump and New York City’s newly elected Mayor Zohran Mamdani shared a surprisingly amicable meeting at the White House. Despite their previous political clashes, the two leaders emphasized their shared commitment to addressing New York City’s affordability crisis. Trump, who had previously labeled Mamdani a ‘communist,’ praised the mayor-elect, expressing confidence in his ability to lead effectively. Mamdani, a self-described Democratic socialist who had called Trump a ‘despot,’ reciprocated the conciliatory tone, focusing on their mutual goal of tackling the city’s cost-of-living issues. The meeting, which took place in the Oval Office, showcased relaxed body language and frequent smiles, signaling a potential truce between the two New Yorkers. However, political observers remain skeptical about the longevity of this newfound harmony, especially given their differing views on key issues such as immigration and federal enforcement. As both leaders navigate their respective political landscapes, the meeting serves as a reminder of the complexities and unpredictability of political alliances.
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Ai Goto dominates Faldo Junior Final in Al Ain; UAE’s Rayhan Ahmed best of home hopes
In a stunning display of skill and composure, 16-year-old Japanese golf sensation Ai Goto clinched victory at the 29th Faldo Junior Tour European Grand Final held at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club. Goto, hailed as a ‘next-generation’ star in Japanese women’s golf, delivered a masterclass performance, finishing 12-under-par over three rounds with scores of 66, 65, and 67. Her remarkable consistency included 17 birdies and one eagle, despite a dramatic quadruple bogey in her opening round. Goto’s triumph underscored her rising prominence in the sport. Zambia’s Michael Chuma, who carded a breathtaking 61 in the final round, secured the runner-up position, two strokes behind Goto. Among the 67 participants from around the globe, UAE’s Rayhan Ahmed emerged as the top local finisher, tying for 8th place with a total score of 206 (–4). Ahmed, 18, reflected on his performance, highlighting challenges with his driving but praising his approach game. He now sets his sights on the Tommy Fleetwood Pathway Series in Ras Al Khaimah. The event also featured other UAE competitors, including Mohammad Skaik and Ananyaa Sood, showcasing the growing talent in the region. Goto’s victory not only cements her status as a rising star but also highlights the global appeal and competitive spirit of junior golf.
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From injuries to fatalities: Top 10 deadliest Airshow disasters in history
Airshows, often celebrated for their breathtaking aerial displays and thrilling performances, have a darker side marked by tragic accidents that have left indelible scars on aviation history. While these events are designed to entertain and inspire, they have occasionally turned into scenes of devastation, claiming lives and leaving communities in mourning. Here, we revisit the ten most catastrophic airshow disasters that have shaped the narrative of aviation safety and risk management.
1. **Sknyliv Airshow (2002, Ukraine)**: The deadliest airshow accident occurred when a Ukrainian Air Force Sukhoi Su-27 crashed during a low-altitude maneuver, killing 77 spectators, including 28 children, and injuring 543. Both pilots survived but faced legal consequences.
2. **Ramstein Airshow (1988, West Germany)**: A mid-air collision involving Italian Air Force jets resulted in a fiery crash that killed 70 people, including three pilots, and injured hundreds more.
3. **Golden West Sport Aviation Show (1972, USA)**: A Canadair Sabre Mk. 5 failed to gain altitude, crashing into an ice cream parlor and killing 22 people, including members of a Little League football team.
4. **Reno Air Races (2011, USA)**: A modified racing aircraft lost control, crashing into spectators and killing 10 people. Investigations revealed structural failures caused by excessive modifications.
5. **Ostend Airshow (1997, Belgium)**: A Royal Jordanian Falcons pilot lost control, crashing near spectators and killing nine people, including the pilot.
6. **Paris Airshow (1973, France)**: The Tupolev Tu-144 supersonic airliner broke apart mid-flight, killing all five crew members and eight people on the ground.
7. **Canary Islands Airshow (1984, Spain)**: A Spanish aerobatic team pilot lost control, crashing and killing five people, including himself.
8. **Royal Air Force Station Crash (1952, UK)**: A prototype Avro Vulcan bomber crashed during a test flight, killing all four crew members and three spectators.
9. **Bartlesville Biplane Exposition (1996, USA)**: A mid-air collision between two biplanes resulted in an explosion that killed all four pilots.
10. **Indian Air Force Day (1989, India)**: A Mirage 2000 crashed during a low-altitude maneuver, killing the pilot and one spectator.
These tragedies serve as stark reminders of the inherent risks in aviation displays, prompting ongoing efforts to enhance safety protocols and prevent future disasters.
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Family of missing Colombian seek answers after US strike on alleged drug boat
The serene fishing village of Taganga on Colombia’s Caribbean coast has become a focal point of international tension following US military strikes targeting alleged drug-trafficking vessels. Lizbeth Perez, the niece of missing fisherman Alejandro Carranza, recalls her last conversation with her uncle in September, describing him as a kind and cheerful man who loved his work. Carranza, a father of five, disappeared after setting out on his boat from La Guajira, Venezuela, on September 14. The next day, US President Donald Trump announced a strike on a vessel departing Venezuela, killing three individuals he labeled as ‘narco-terrorists.’ Carranza’s family remains in anguish, uncertain if he was among the victims. The US has conducted at least 21 strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific since September, resulting in 83 deaths. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defends the campaign as a necessary measure to combat drug trafficking and protect American lives. However, the strikes have drawn condemnation from regional leaders, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who accused the US of ‘murder’ and suspended intelligence sharing with Washington. Petro claims Carranza was transporting drugs to fund his daughter’s education but argues that such actions do not warrant a death sentence. Carranza’s family denies his involvement in drug trafficking and has enlisted US lawyer Daniel Kovalik to sue the US government, citing violations of international law. The Trump administration justifies the strikes by invoking war-time powers, claiming the US is in a ‘non-international armed conflict’ with drug cartels. Meanwhile, local fishermen like 81-year-old Juan Assis Tejeda live in fear of being mistakenly targeted. The strikes have also fueled speculation about US intentions to pressure Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the US accuses of leading a criminal trafficking organization. As tensions escalate, Caribbean fishing communities brace for an uncertain future, questioning whether diplomacy or conflict lies ahead.
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UAE launches Thai Select’s Culinary Trail ahead of 2025 festival
In anticipation of the Thai Select Festival 2025, the UAE has launched an innovative digital campaign titled ‘Tastes of Thailand: The Road to the Festival.’ This initiative, spearheaded by Thai Select—a certification by Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce—aims to highlight authentic Thai cuisine across the Emirates. From November 18 to November 27, over 30 influencers in food, travel, and lifestyle will visit Thai Select-certified restaurants, documenting their unique dishes, chef stories, and cultural elements. The campaign, under the hashtag #RoadToThaiSelectFestival2025, invites the public to explore these culinary gems and prepare for the grand festival in November 2025. The festival, set to take place at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, promises an immersive experience with authentic Thai food, live performances, and cooking demonstrations. Pitichai Ratananaka, director of Thai Trade Centre Dubai, emphasized the campaign’s goal to deepen cultural ties and showcase Thailand’s culinary excellence.
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US judge resigns after being disciplined for wearing Elvis wig in court
A Missouri judge has faced disciplinary action for his unconventional courtroom behavior, which included dressing as Elvis Presley and playing the singer’s music during legal proceedings. Judge Matthew EP Thornhill, the longest-serving circuit judge in St Charles County, is a self-proclaimed Elvis enthusiast. However, his fondness for the King of Rock’n’Roll led to a formal complaint by the Missouri Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline of Judges. The commission cited his frequent and ‘irrelevant’ Elvis references as undermining the integrity of the court. In a letter to the Missouri Supreme Court dated 12 November, Judge Thornhill admitted that his actions, intended to lighten the mood, were inappropriate and acknowledged their impact on the solemnity of judicial proceedings. The disciplinary report highlighted instances where Judge Thornhill wore an Elvis wig and sunglasses on the bench, particularly around Halloween, and occasionally played Elvis music during swearing-in ceremonies. Additionally, he was criticized for sharing his political views and promoting his re-election campaign from the bench. The commission recommended a six-month suspension without pay, followed by an 18-month probationary period before retirement. Judge Thornhill accepted the terms, concluding his 20-year judicial career.
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‘Be Aware, Stop, Think, Protect’: New platform in Sharjah to fight cyber fraud
In response to the escalating sophistication of cyber fraud, Sharjah Police has unveiled a groundbreaking cybersecurity awareness platform titled ‘Be Aware – Stop, Think, Protect.’ Launched on Thursday at City Centre Al Zahia, the initiative aims to arm residents with practical tools to thwart online scams. Brigadier Omar Ahmed Abu Al Zoud, Director of the Criminal Investigations Department, emphasized the growing prevalence of fraudulent digital platforms that mimic legitimate consumer-protection services. He cautioned that authentic government entities never solicit OTP codes, bank PINs, or payments, urging the public to verify platforms meticulously before sharing sensitive information. The platform fosters direct communication between law enforcement and the community, enabling residents to report suspicious activities and seek guidance. It also features a virtual component with interactive stations that simulate cyber fraud scenarios and provide actionable advice to avoid victimization. A dedicated children’s station, developed in collaboration with the Emirates Foundation for School Education, educates students on online safety. Colonel Dr. Khalifa Yousef Balhai, Director of the Criminal Investigations Directorate, highlighted the rise in social engineering scams, phishing attempts, and unauthorized remote-access applications. Authorities identified five major cyber fraud types affecting UAE residents, including fake consumer-protection websites, remote-access app scams, social-media discount traps, phantom property listings, and bogus complaint-resolution services. Sharjah Police plans to expand the campaign through workshops and seminars in schools, malls, and community centers, combining physical outreach with virtual resources to enhance digital literacy and reduce victimization across the emirate.