Global Pulse

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  • Gold prices in Dubai: Residents, investors get richer by Dh200 per gram in 2025

    Gold prices in Dubai: Residents, investors get richer by Dh200 per gram in 2025

    Dubai’s gold market experienced an extraordinary bull run throughout 2025, delivering substantial wealth gains for residents and investors who entered the market at the year’s commencement. The precious metal’s remarkable performance has established 2025 as a landmark period for commodity investments in the United Arab Emirates.

    Market data reveals that 24-karat gold, the purest form available to consumers, opened the trading year at Dh318 per gram on January 1, 2025, and concluded at Dh520 per gram on December 31, 2025. This represents a staggering increase of Dh202 per gram, translating to a 63.5 percent annual appreciation—one of the most significant yearly gains in recent history.

    The price surge extended across all gold variants traded in the Dubai market. 22-karat gold demonstrated parallel growth, climbing from Dh294.5 to Dh481.5 per gram, while 21-karat gold advanced from Dh285 to Dh461.75 per gram. Even the newly introduced 14-karat variant, launched in late November, recorded a 2.3 percent increase to Dh308.75 per gram despite its limited trading period.

    Financial experts attribute this unprecedented rally to multiple converging factors. Aggressive central bank acquisitions of gold reserves, substantial interest rate reductions by the U.S. Federal Reserve, and escalating geopolitical tensions across the Middle East and other global regions created perfect conditions for gold’s ascent.

    Vijay Valecha, Chief Investment Officer at Century Financial, characterized 2025 as “a landmark period for precious metals,” noting that gold and silver significantly outperformed broader financial markets. The metal demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the year, posting gains in eleven of twelve months. September emerged as the strongest month with an 11.94 percent surge, followed by substantial advances in January (6.60 percent) and March (9.31 percent). July represented the only negative month with a marginal 0.40 percent decline.

    The investment community responded enthusiastically to gold’s performance, with gold-backed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recording net inflows of 15.6 million ounces. This substantial institutional and retail investor participation, combined with sustained central bank purchasing, created sustained upward momentum throughout the trading year.

  • UAE weather: Rough seas, fair to partly cloudy skies; fog expected in some areas

    UAE weather: Rough seas, fair to partly cloudy skies; fog expected in some areas

    The United Arab Emirates ushered in the new year under predominantly fair to partly cloudy skies, though meteorological authorities cautioned residents about specific weather phenomena affecting various regions. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the nation experienced humid nighttime conditions alongside noticeable maritime disturbances in coastal territories.

    Meteorological officials issued warnings regarding rough sea conditions persisting through New Year’s Eve and into the morning of January 1st, 2026. Fresh northwesterly winds reached velocities of up to 40 kilometers per hour, creating significant wave heights approaching six feet in the Arabian Gulf. The maritime advisory remained effective until 8:00 AM on New Year’s Day, particularly affecting maritime activities and coastal navigation.

    Temperature recordings presented substantial variations across the emirates. Nationwide readings spanned from 11°C to 25°C, with Abu Dhabi recording minimum temperatures of 17°C while Dubai documented slightly warmer overnight lows of 18°C. Maximum temperatures reached 23°C in the capital city, with both Sharjah and Dubai experiencing highs of 24°C.

    The most striking temperature measurement emerged from Ras Al Khaimah’s elevated terrain, where Jebel Jais recorded the nation’s lowest temperature at 3.5°C on December 31st, 2025. This significant temperature drop highlights the considerable climatic diversity within the UAE’s geographical landscape.

    Looking forward, meteorological projections indicate rising humidity levels across coastal and internal regions during Friday morning hours. These conditions create favorable circumstances for fog or mist formation, potentially affecting visibility and transportation networks. Authorities continue monitoring these developments and advise residents to remain updated through official channels.

  • UN faces turbulent year amid conflicts and calls for reform

    UN faces turbulent year amid conflicts and calls for reform

    The United Nations headquarters in New York witnessed a year of profound turbulence as the organization grappled with escalating global conflicts, deepening humanitarian emergencies, and intensifying geopolitical fractures. The multilateral system faced unprecedented strain throughout 2025, testing the institution’s capacity to maintain international peace and security.

    The Palestinian situation emerged as a dominant concern, culminating in the 80th UN General Assembly’s adoption of the ‘New York Declaration’ on September 12. This resolution, crafted through Franco-Saudi collaboration and supported by 142 nations, demanded an immediate ceasefire, prisoner releases, and the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state. This diplomatic achievement coincided with a wave of recognitions, with the UK, Canada, Australia, and numerous other states formally acknowledging Palestinian statehood. By late September, an overwhelming 157 of 193 member states had extended recognition.

    November marked a significant breakthrough when the Security Council finally endorsed a US-proposed Gaza ceasefire plan after two years of deadlock. The resolution authorized an International Stabilization Force to support reconstruction efforts, representing a notable shift from previous American vetoes that had blocked similar measures. China’s UN ambassador Fu Cong emphasized the urgency, stating: ‘Gaza already faces famine with rapidly spreading disease. As a permanent member, the US must support the council’s duties rather than undermine UN authority.’

    The organization simultaneously confronted internal challenges, including a deepening liquidity crisis exacerbated by reduced contributions from the United States and other Western donors. President Donald Trump’s extended General Assembly speech criticized the UN’s operational framework, accusing the organization of funding migratory assaults on Western nations.

    Structural reform gained momentum with the December launch of the Group of Friends of Global Governance, comprising 43 founding members. China championed reforms that would enhance developing nations’ representation and reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. Ambassador Fu articulated this vision: ‘We must uphold the UN Charter’s principles, advance international relations democratization, and strengthen developing countries’ voice in global affairs.’

    The reform debate intensified when China opposed Japan’s Security Council aspirations, with Fu declaring Japan ‘totally unqualified’ following Prime Minister Takaichi’s comments regarding a potential ‘Taiwan contingency.’ China subsequently submitted formal objections to the Secretary-General reaffirming Taiwan as China’s internal affair.

    As the year concluded amidst ongoing conflicts, Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a poignant New Year’s message urging global leaders to ‘choose people and planet over pain,’ acknowledging that ‘chaos and uncertainty surround us’ as the world stands at a critical crossroads.

  • US military says five killed in latest strike on alleged drug boats

    US military says five killed in latest strike on alleged drug boats

    The US Southern Command has confirmed a new series of lethal maritime engagements as part of its intensified counter-narcotics operations. On Wednesday, US forces conducted strikes on two vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking, resulting in the deaths of five individuals aboard. This action follows another targeted operation just one day prior, where US military assets engaged what they described as a three-vessel narco-trafficking convoy, killing at least three people.

    These recent strikes represent the latest escalation in a controversial campaign that began on September 2nd, with over thirty vessels targeted and more than 110 fatalities recorded to date. The operations extend across international waters in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific regions, areas known for narcotics smuggling routes.

    The Trump administration has framed these operations as part of a non-international armed conflict against drug traffickers. However, this characterization has drawn scrutiny from legal experts who question its compliance with international laws governing armed conflict. Particularly controversial is the emergence of ‘double-tap’ strike patterns, where targets are engaged multiple times in quick succession.

    The initial September attack has come under particular congressional scrutiny after revelations that US forces struck the same vessel twice. Two survivors who had been clinging to the hull following the first strike were killed in the second engagement, raising concerns about potential violations of rules of engagement.

    In its most recent statement regarding the December 30th convoy engagement, US Southern Command reported that several individuals abandoned their vessels before subsequent engagements sank the boats. The command stated that the US Coast Guard was immediately notified to search for survivors, with Reuters reporting an anonymous US official confirming eight individuals were being sought. The current status of these survivors remains unknown.

    The military justification for these strikes rests on intelligence claims that targeted vessels were transiting known narco-trafficking routes and engaged in illegal activities, though concrete evidence of drug cargo has not been publicly provided despite repeated insistences from Southern Command.

  • Dubai South to draw more end-users as DWC expansion creates more jobs

    Dubai South to draw more end-users as DWC expansion creates more jobs

    Dubai South’s residential communities are positioned to attract substantial end-user demand as infrastructure development around Al Maktoum International Airport accelerates, creating unprecedented employment opportunities and housing needs. Industry analysts confirm that southern Dubai communities maintain competitive affordability compared to established urban centers, driving increased buyer interest.

    According to Metropolitan Premium Properties’ Deputy Director Himanshi Trivedi, areas combining infrastructure investment, lifestyle appeal, and long-term value will experience strongest demand. “Dubai South will continue attracting end-users and investors due to affordability and airport-led growth,” Trivedi stated, highlighting the region’s strategic advantages.

    The ongoing development of Al Maktoum International Airport, slated to become the world’s largest aviation facility upon its 2032 opening, is projected to generate residential requirements for over one million residents. Dubai World Central (DWC) has been master-planned as a self-sufficient urban center featuring comprehensive amenities including educational institutions, healthcare facilities, retail destinations, and recreational spaces—critical factors for permanent residents rather than speculative investors.

    Market data from Betterhomes indicates heightened developer focus on Dubai Investment Park, Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai South Residential District, Al Furjan, and Town Square communities. This shift responds to growing demand stimulated by airport relocation plans and associated economic expansion.

    Range International Properties Senior Consultant Humaira Vaqqas anticipates a fundamental market transformation beginning in 2026, noting: “The area is expected to shift from investor-driven to end-user-focused, particularly for families and professionals employed nearby.” Vaqqas emphasized that infrastructure development and improved connectivity will enhance livability for long-term residents.

    The airport expansion is projected to generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities across aviation, logistics, hospitality, and support sectors. This employment surge, coupled with comparatively affordable property prices and larger unit sizes, makes Dubai South particularly attractive for first-time buyers and families seeking value beyond established urban corridors.

    Rising rental rates across Dubai may further incentivize long-term tenants working in proximity to purchase properties rather than continue renting. Strong government backing and comprehensive urban planning provide buyers confidence in the area’s sustainable development and future value appreciation potential.

  • Zohran Mamdani sworn in as first Muslim New York City Mayor

    Zohran Mamdani sworn in as first Muslim New York City Mayor

    In a ceremony symbolizing both historical significance and progressive change, Zohran Mamdani has been officially inaugurated as New York City’s chief executive, becoming the first Muslim to hold this prestigious office. The swearing-in event, held at the decommissioned Old City Hall subway station—a landmark known for its architectural grandeur and historical importance—featured Mamdani taking his oath of office on the Quran. This location choice underscores a commitment to honoring the city’s past while embracing its diverse future. Mamdani, a prominent figure within the Democratic Party, has built his political career on advocacy for social justice and economic equality. His election marks a watershed moment for religious representation in American urban governance, reflecting New York’s evolving demographic landscape and its status as a melting pot of cultures and faiths. Political analysts suggest this development could signal broader shifts in municipal politics across major U.S. metropolitan areas, potentially inspiring greater religious diversity in civic leadership positions nationwide.

  • Oil prices are set for biggest annual drop since 2020

    Oil prices are set for biggest annual drop since 2020

    Global crude benchmarks concluded 2025 with their most significant annual depreciation since 2020, cementing a third consecutive year of losses amid complex market dynamics. Brent crude futures registered a pronounced 17% annual decline while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude witnessed a nearly 19% drop, marking the longest sustained downward trend in history.

    The year’s substantial price erosion stemmed from a confluence of factors including OPEC+ accelerated production increases, persistent concerns regarding global economic vitality under tariff pressures, and surprisingly resilient U.S. shale output. Despite geopolitical tensions that initially propelled prices upward—including strengthened sanctions on Russia, Iran-Israel conflicts disrupting Hormuz Strait shipping, and Yemen-related regional tensions—these supply threats ultimately proved insufficient to counterbalance burgeoning inventories.

    Market structure analysis reveals particular weakness in refined products. Recent Energy Information Administration data showed U.S. crude stocks drawing by 1.9 million barrels, yet this was overshadowed by substantial builds in distillates (5 million barrels) and gasoline (5.8 million barrels), significantly exceeding analyst projections.

    Looking toward 2026, analytical projections remain cautious. BNP Paribas commodities analyst Jason Ying anticipates Brent potentially dipping to $55/barrel in first-quarter 2026 before stabilizing around $60 as supply growth normalizes against flat demand trajectories. This bearish near-term outlook reflects the increased price insulation of U.S. shale producers who secured advantageous hedging positions.

    The OPEC+ alliance, having injected approximately 2.9 million barrels daily into markets since April 2025, has announced a production pause for 2026’s first quarter. With the cartel’s next meeting scheduled for January 4, market participants await signals regarding potential supply adjustments should prices deteriorate further into the $50s range.

    Despite overwhelming fundamental indicators suggesting sustained oversupply through 2026, some analysts caution against discounting geopolitical variables, particularly noting the unpredictable influence of U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration regarding Venezuela, Iran, and broader global trade relationships.

  • Watch: Walk through palace doors as Sheikh Hamdan recounts key moments in 2025

    Watch: Walk through palace doors as Sheikh Hamdan recounts key moments in 2025

    In a heartfelt conclusion to 2025, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has captivated global audiences by sharing a profoundly personal video retrospective on social media. The visual narrative, shared with his nearly 17 million Instagram followers, provides unprecedented access into the dual aspects of his life as both a dedicated public figure and a devoted family man.

    The carefully curated footage begins symbolically with Sheikh Hamdan walking through palace doors, effectively inviting viewers into his private world. The video prominently features tender moments with his newborn daughter Hind, born earlier this year, alongside warm familial interactions that include the nation’s leadership. These genuine scenes of embrace and informal companionship reveal the human dimension behind the royal title.

    True to his reputation as an adventure enthusiast, the compilation also showcases Sheikh Hamdan’s adrenaline-fueled pursuits, including skydiving from aircraft, ocean swimming, and snow sledding. This balanced portrayal presents a multifaceted leader who seamlessly blends his governance responsibilities with adventurous passions and family commitments.

    The Crown Prince’s participation in this social media trend demonstrates his sophisticated understanding of digital communication, using visual storytelling rather than verbal explanation to connect with citizens and global observers alike. His approachable leadership style continues to redefine modern governance through authentic public engagement.

  • Disney worker hurt stopping 400-lb fake boulder from hitting audience

    Disney worker hurt stopping 400-lb fake boulder from hitting audience

    A Walt Disney World employee sustained injuries while heroically intercepting a 400-pound (180kg) rogue prop during a live performance at the Florida theme park this week. The incident occurred during the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! show, which recreates iconic scenes from the classic film series.

    Video footage captured the moment the artificial boulder, constructed from rubber but weighing approximately 400 pounds, deviated from its intended track during Tuesday’s performance. As the massive prop careened toward audience seating areas, a quick-thinking staff member leaped into its path, successfully preventing it from reaching spectators but suffering injuries in the process.

    The employee remained on the ground immediately following the impact, with fellow cast members rushing to provide assistance. While Disney officials have not explicitly confirmed the boulder as the cause, they acknowledged that ‘a prop moved off its track’ during the performance.

    In an official statement released Wednesday, Disney representatives emphasized: ‘We’re focused on supporting our cast member, who is recovering. Safety is at the heart of what we do, and that element of the show will be modified as our safety team completes a review of what happened.’

    Eyewitnesses described the staff member’s actions as potentially life-saving. One attendee told People magazine that the worker had ‘saved’ the audience from injury, characterizing the event as ‘a crazy experience and definitely one that we will remember.’ Another video captured an audience member exclaiming, ‘He literally saved our lives, that guy.’

    The incident has prompted an immediate safety review of the popular stunt show, which features one of the most recognizable scenes from 1981’s ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark,’ where Indiana Jones narrowly escapes a massive rolling boulder triggered by a booby trap.

  • NYE in Dubai: Workers welcome New Year ‘in grand way’ at massive celebrations

    NYE in Dubai: Workers welcome New Year ‘in grand way’ at massive celebrations

    In a transformative shift from previous years, hundreds of Dubai’s essential service workers experienced New Year’s Eve celebrations firsthand rather than working behind the scenes. The massive gathering in Al Quoz marked a significant departure from tradition for the cleaning and maintenance staff who typically spend the holiday clearing celebration debris.

    Abdul Raqeeb, a maintenance company employee who arrived in Dubai two years ago, represented this dramatic change in experience. Last year, he prepared for extensive post-celebration cleanup while others counted down to midnight. This year, he joined thousands of residents in recording celebratory videos to send home while enjoying musical performances.

    “Last year, I cleaned after the celebration,” Raqeeb noted quietly. “This year, I am celebrating it.”

    His colleague Wasim emphasized the unusual nature of their experience: “Usually, this time is busy for us. Today, we are not working. We are just sitting, enjoying the night and welcoming the new year in a grand way.”

    The workers, dressed in simple clothing and carrying phones to capture the moment, gathered in groups of colleagues and friends who have worked together for years with minimal recognition. Their participation in the festivities represents a growing acknowledgment of the essential workforce that maintains Dubai’s glittering public spaces during major events.

    The celebration continued with the Dubai Fountain extending its New Year shows through January 7, though some regular displays remain temporarily suspended to accommodate the extended holiday programming.