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  • Email by ‘A’ from ‘Balmoral’ asked Ghislaine Maxwell for ‘inappropriate friends’, Epstein files show

    Email by ‘A’ from ‘Balmoral’ asked Ghislaine Maxwell for ‘inappropriate friends’, Epstein files show

    A fresh trove of documents from the Jeffrey Epstein case, released by the U.S. Department of Justice on Tuesday, contains enigmatic email exchanges that reference Balmoral Castle and employ aliases, renewing scrutiny around Prince Andrew’s associations.

    Among the more than 11,000 pages made public is an August 2001 email sent to Ghislaine Maxwell from an individual identifying themselves as ‘A,’ who claimed to be at ‘Balmoral Summer Camp for the Royal Family.’ The sender inquired about Maxwell’s activities in Los Angeles, asking, ‘How’s LA? Have you found me some new inappropriate friends?’ before signing off with ‘see ya A xxx.’ The message originated from the address ‘abx17@dial.pipex.com,’ which was associated with the alias ‘The Invisible Man’ in the documents.

    Maxwell’s replied on the same day, stating, ‘So sorry to dissapoint [sic] you, however the truth must be told. I have only been able to find appropriate friends.’

    Further documentation reveals a second email address, ‘aace@dial.pipex.com,’ listed in Epstein’s phone book under a contact labeled ‘Duke of York’—Prince Andrew’s former title. Subsequent email chains from February and March 2002, also under the ‘Invisible Man’ alias, discuss travel plans to Peru. In one exchange, the sender comments on proposed activities, including a mention of girls: ‘As for girls well I leave that entirely to you and Juan Estoban!’

    Another forwarded email from Maxwell to the same address includes the line: ‘Some sight seeing some 2 legged sight seeing (read intelligent pretty fun and from good families) and he will be very happy.’

    The documents also include a formal 2020 DOJ request to British authorities seeking to interview Prince Andrew in relation to the Epstein investigation. The request emphasized that Andrew was considered a potential witness and not a target, with no evidence suggesting he committed any crime under U.S. law.

    Other high-profile figures, including former President Donald Trump, are referenced in the latest release. A note from a federal prosecutor suggested Trump traveled on Epstein’s plane ‘many more times than previously reported,’ a claim Trump has denied. The DOJ noted that some files contain ‘untrue and sensationalist claims.’

    The document release was mandated by Congress to be completed by December 19th, though not all files have been made public. Prince Andrew, who lost his royal titles in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing or knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activities.

  • Abu Dhabi Police call on motorists to wear helmets at Liwa Festival

    Abu Dhabi Police call on motorists to wear helmets at Liwa Festival

    Abu Dhabi Police have issued crucial safety directives for attendees of the Liwa International Festival, emphasizing mandatory helmet usage for all motorists navigating the challenging dunes of Tal Moreeb. The festival, which transforms the desert landscape into a vibrant hub of extreme sports and cultural activities, attracts enthusiasts from across the region for its daring motorsport competitions and family-oriented entertainment.

    Authorities clarified that helmet requirements extend beyond professional racers to include anyone operating bikes or scooters within the festival grounds. “The helmet serves not merely as head coverage but as a vital shield against life-threatening injuries,” stated official communications from Abu Dhabi Police.

    In addition to head protection protocols, festival visitors are advised to equip both their vehicles and campsites with functional first aid kits and fire extinguishers. This comprehensive safety initiative is supported through collaborative efforts between Emirates Red Crescent and Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, with personnel distributing protective gear to participants lacking proper equipment.

    The Liwa International Festival, centered around the 300-meter-high Tal Moreeb dune, features an array of attractions including aerial displays by military aircraft, illuminated dune surfaces, drone spectacles, and freestyle motorsport performances. This year’s edition gained additional prominence with Burj Khalifa’s ceremonial lighting commemorating the festival’s opening. Beyond extreme sports, the event offers diverse activities ranging from hot air balloon rides and traditional markets to creative workshops and family-friendly animal encounters.

  • Dubai Shopping Festival announces discounts up to 90%, 12-hour sale

    Dubai Shopping Festival announces discounts up to 90%, 12-hour sale

    Dubai has launched its annual retail extravaganza, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), promising unprecedented shopping experiences from December 26, 2025, through February 1, 2026. The citywide event features over 1,000 international and local brands across 3,500 retail outlets offering discounts ranging from 25% to an extraordinary 90% on diverse product categories including fashion, electronics, home goods, beauty products, and children’s items.

    The festival’s opening day will feature a special 12-hour sale event exclusively at Majid Al Futtaim shopping centers, including Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, and three additional locations. From 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on December 26, shoppers can access the deepest discounts of the festival at participating retailers.

    Beyond the substantial savings, DSF introduces multiple high-value prize opportunities. The centerpiece ‘Shop, Scan & Win’ promotion offers shoppers who spend Dh300 or more at participating stores the chance to win one of five Nissan Patrol SE T2 2026 vehicles in weekly drawings. Participants simply scan QR codes at point-of-sale and upload receipts through the designated digital platform.

    Additional premium promotions include Majid Al Futtaim Malls’ ‘Biggest Prize of the Year’ offering Dh1 million in cash for shoppers spending over Dh300 at selected locations. Dubai Festival City Mall presents the ‘Modesh and Blue Rewards Millionaire’ campaign, awarding one million Blue Points to lucky winners. Meanwhile, Dubai Holding’s ‘DSF Golden Tickit’ program will designate 38 winners to receive Dh10,000 in Tickit points each.

    Mercato Mall enhances the shopping experience with an exclusive mall-specific prize campaign running through January 12, providing additional winning opportunities during the post-Christmas shopping period. The comprehensive five-week festival represents Dubai’s continued commitment to establishing itself as a global retail destination while providing significant value to residents and visitors alike.

  • Dubai: New programme to help aspiring script writers make their own TV shows; how to apply

    Dubai: New programme to help aspiring script writers make their own TV shows; how to apply

    Dubai is set to launch an intensive talent development program in January 2026, designed to identify and nurture the next generation of scriptwriters and producers in the Middle Eastern entertainment industry. The collaborative initiative brings together the Dubai Films and Games Commission (DFGC), the UK’s prestigious National Film and Television School (NFTS), and streaming giant Amazon’s Prime Video.

    The five-day program, scheduled from January 26-30, 2026, will provide emerging creative professionals with comprehensive training in developing and pitching original scripted television concepts for the global market. Participants will engage in an immersive curriculum combining craft-focused workshops, industry insights, and hands-on project development under the guidance of established industry experts.

    Leading the instructional team will be Matt Delargy, NFTS Senior Tutor and seasoned producer-screenwriter known for works including ‘Nowhere Boy’ and ‘Ripper Street,’ alongside Adrian Banyard, a senior executive from London-based Big Light Productions. The program will feature tailored masterclasses, mentoring sessions, and workshops covering essential aspects of television production including concept development, narrative structure, audience strategy, marketing, and international co-production models.

    The initiative represents a strategic effort by the Dubai Media Council-backed DFGC to strengthen the emirate’s film and television ecosystem, expand local production capabilities, and position Dubai as a regional content creation hub through partnerships with global industry leaders.

    The program will culminate in a dedicated pitching session where participants will present their developed projects to a panel comprising Amazon MGM Studios executives, NFTS tutors, regional commissioners, and UAE-based production partners. The final day will also include a panel discussion on the future of series production in the MENA region, followed by a networking reception to foster professional connections.

    Application details require Dubai-based industry professionals with relevant experience to submit materials by 5 PM Dubai time on January 12, 2026, via email to info@dfgc.ae. The program will select eight two-person teams, with requirements including at least one broadcast credit per team and designated roles of lead producer and writer/creative producer.

  • The US economy survived 2025, but many Americans are reeling

    The US economy survived 2025, but many Americans are reeling

    As 2025 concludes, the United States economy has demonstrated remarkable durability through a year marked by significant challenges including trade conflicts, market volatility, and an unprecedented government shutdown. However, this resilience has not translated into widespread prosperity, leaving many Americans apprehensive about their financial security heading into 2026.

    The resumption of economic data flow following the government shutdown reveals a complex and contradictory landscape. November employment figures showed reasonable job creation alongside rising unemployment rates. Similarly, retail sales maintained strength while wage growth decelerated, and inflation moderated yet remained above target levels.

    Gross domestic product data anticipated for release is expected to reveal robust third-quarter expansion. Projections indicate approximately 1.5% inflation-adjusted growth for 2025, representing a moderation from 2024 performance but far from recessionary conditions.

    The economic benefits have been disproportionately distributed, with affluent households driving consumer spending through stock market gains while lower-income families face increasing financial strain. This disparity is evidenced by rising auto repossessions and delinquency rates among economically vulnerable populations.

    Particularly concerning are deteriorating conditions for recent college graduates and Black workers, whose unemployment rate reached 8.3% in November—double that of white workers and representing what experts describe as crisis-level conditions for that demographic.

    Policy responses including tax cuts and Federal Reserve interest rate reductions aim to stimulate economic activity in 2026. Many economists anticipate reduced policy uncertainty may encourage business investment and improve labor market conditions.

    However, underlying structural challenges persist—including housing affordability crises, childcare costs, rising utility expenses, and impending health insurance premium increases—creating significant headwinds for household economic security regardless of macroeconomic indicators.

  • SEF 2026 hosts masterclasses across business, technology, and creative growth

    SEF 2026 hosts masterclasses across business, technology, and creative growth

    The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF 2026) is set to elevate entrepreneurial education through an extensive program of applied masterclasses scheduled for January 31 to February 1 at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). Now in its ninth edition, the festival anticipates welcoming over 14,000 global participants, including founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders from across the region and beyond.

    Organized by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) under the theme ‘Where We Belong,’ SEF 2026 establishes the SEF Academy as a cornerstone initiative designed to provide practical, skill-driven learning experiences. These masterclasses address critical entrepreneurial challenges through instruction from regional and international experts across three primary domains: venture fundamentals, technological implementation, and creative growth strategies.

    The financial literacy curriculum includes ‘Demystifying the Mechanics of Equity Fundraising,’ which offers practical guidance on capital tables and investor readiness, while ‘Money Mastery 101’ focuses on personal and business financial management. Additional sessions analyze consumer spending patterns to enhance commercial decision-making capabilities.

    Technology-focused modules feature ‘Artificial Intelligence Automation for Businesses,’ exploring AI applications for customer engagement and operational efficiency, alongside ‘Building Your AI Workflow for Storytelling and Creativity,’ which demonstrates AI integration into content production processes. These sessions emphasize practical implementation rather than theoretical experimentation.

    The program also addresses personal development through ‘Personal Branding for Founders,’ which assists entrepreneurs in crafting authentic narratives, and ‘From Fear to Confidence: The 90-Minute Speaking Transformation,’ designed to enhance high-stakes communication skills.

    Creative professionals benefit from specialized offerings including hands-on photowalk sessions using both DSLR cameras and mobile devices, alongside ‘AI Prompt Engineering for Creatives’ and ‘How to Make a Full-Time Income with a Part-Time Audience,’ which reframes audience development as sustainable business growth.

    This comprehensive educational initiative reflects Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to fostering entrepreneurship through practical skill development, technological adoption, and creative innovation within the regional startup ecosystem.

  • Trump travelled on Epstein’s plane more than previously thought, prosecutor says

    Trump travelled on Epstein’s plane more than previously thought, prosecutor says

    Newly released Department of Justice documents have revealed that former President Donald Trump was documented as a passenger on Jeffrey Epstein’s private aircraft on eight separate occasions between 1993 and 1996. The disclosure comes from a January 2020 email written by an assistant U.S. attorney from the Southern District of New York, which was made public as part of the ongoing Epstein files release.

    The email correspondence, partially redacted to protect identities, indicates Trump traveled with Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell on at least four of these flights. Flight manifests also document Trump traveling with former wife Marla Maples, daughter Tiffany Trump, and son Eric Trump during various journeys. Notably, one 1993 flight reportedly listed only Epstein and Trump as passengers, while another flight included a then-20-year-old individual whose identity remains redacted.

    The Justice Department emphasized that these documents ‘contain untrue and sensationalist claims’ against Trump, specifically noting that allegations submitted to the FBI shortly before the 2020 election were ‘unfounded and false.’ Federal prosecutors stated that had these claims possessed any credibility, they would have been utilized against Trump previously.

    This document release, comprising over 30,000 pages, represents the largest batch of Epstein-related materials made public to date. The DOJ missed its congressional deadline to publish all Epstein files by last Friday, drawing criticism from both survivors and lawmakers across the political spectrum. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche acknowledged that not all materials would be released immediately, citing the need to protect victims as additional documents undergo review for future publication.

    Epstein died in a New York prison cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Ghislaine Maxwell was sentenced in 2022 to 20 years imprisonment for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking operation. Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing regarding his association with Epstein, claiming they had a falling out around 2004—years before Epstein’s initial arrest.

  • Trump’s Fed chair choice could stoke stagflation risks

    Trump’s Fed chair choice could stoke stagflation risks

    President Donald Trump’s impending nomination for the next Federal Reserve chair has ignited concerns about potential political interference in monetary policy. In a recent Wall Street Journal interview, Trump indicated his selection process is nearing completion, with this decision carrying significant implications for financial markets and consumers grappling with persistent inflation.

    The president’s contentious relationship with current Fed Chair Jerome Powell has characterized his administration’s approach to central banking. Despite appointing Powell in 2018, Trump repeatedly criticized his leadership, recently labeling him a ‘clown’ with ‘mental problems’ and expressing desire to dismiss him. Legal protections have prevented Powell’s removal without demonstrated cause, compelling Trump to await the conclusion of his term.

    Trump’s dissatisfaction stems from his belief that presidential consultation should guide interest rate decisions. With Americans facing mounting affordability pressures, the president seeks a chair willing to implement immediate rate reductions despite potential long-term inflationary consequences. This stance contradicts established economic principles favoring central bank independence to shield monetary policy from political cycles.

    Historical precedent offers a cautionary tale: President Richard Nixon’s 1970 appointment of Arthur Burns, who acquiesced to presidential pressure for lower rates, contributed to 1970s stagflation featuring 11% inflation and 8.5% unemployment. This crisis ultimately required Paul Volcker’s drastic 19% interest rates in 1980—the ‘Volcker Shock’—to restore price stability at substantial economic cost.

    Among potential nominees, Kevin Hassett emerges as frontrunner given his alignment with Trump’s preference for lower rates and previous service as National Economic Council director. Alternative candidate Kevin Warsh, initially perceived as an inflation hawk, reportedly gained traction after assuring Trump of shared objectives.

    The selection transcends domestic politics, representing a critical test for institutional independence amid executive power consolidation. Global markets and consumers remain apprehensive as Trump’s decision could determine whether economic stewardship prioritizes short-term political gains or long-term stability, with potential stagflation risks evoking historical economic turmoil.

  • Jebel Jais closes after heavy rains: Where UAE campers are going to enjoy chilly nights

    Jebel Jais closes after heavy rains: Where UAE campers are going to enjoy chilly nights

    Winter camping enthusiasts across the UAE are adapting their plans following the temporary closure of Jebel Jais, the nation’s highest peak, due to heavy rainfall damage. The popular mountain destination in Ras Al Khaimah experienced significant precipitation between December 17-19, resulting in damaged roadways, slippery conditions, and multiple vehicles becoming stranded on hazardous inclines.

    Authorities have implemented a phased closure to facilitate comprehensive safety inspections and essential repairs, though no definitive reopening timeline has been provided. This development comes during the most anticipated period for cold-weather camping, when temperatures typically plummet to seasonal lows between 1°C and 3°C.

    The National Centre of Meteorology indicates the current ten-day forecast maintains ideal camping conditions with nighttime temperatures hovering near 3-4°C and daytime readings reaching 9-13°C. However, additional rainfall is anticipated on December 28-29, potentially complicating recovery efforts.

    Dedicated campers are refusing to abandon their seasonal traditions despite the closure. Many are redirecting to alternative mountainous locations including Jebel Yabir, Jebel Yanas, and various elevated areas within Fujairah. These destinations offer comparable temperature conditions though lacking the developed infrastructure and amenities of Jebel Jais.

    Official advisories caution against wadi camping during this period of unsettled weather, noting potential hazards including standing water, loose rock formations, and slippery pathways. While hiking zones remain technically accessible, authorities emphasize exercising extreme precaution.

    The camping community remains determined to experience the brief annual window of near-freezing conditions that defines the UAE’s winter outdoor experience, demonstrating resilience in adapting to environmental challenges.

  • Ozempic Meals? Restaurants shrink portions to match bite-sized hunger

    Ozempic Meals? Restaurants shrink portions to match bite-sized hunger

    A remarkable transformation is sweeping through American restaurants as establishments respond to the growing demographic of appetite-suppressed diners using GLP-1 medications. With approximately 12% of American adults now taking Ozempic, Wegovy, and similar pharmaceuticals, culinary venues are fundamentally reimagining portion sizes and pricing structures to accommodate changed consumption patterns.

    New York City’s dining scene exemplifies this shift, with establishments like Le Petit Village in Manhattan implementing reduced-portion menu items specifically designed for patrons experiencing suppressed hunger. The West Village restaurant has modified its brunch offerings, creating smaller versions of French toast and smoked salmon tartine that align with the diminished appetites of medication users.

    This trend extends beyond Manhattan. Clinton Hall, with five locations across New York, has introduced its innovative “teeny-weeny mini meal”—featuring a bite-sized burger, modest fries, and a 3-ounce beverage selection—priced at just $8. Owner Aristotle Hatzigeorgiou developed this concept after observing dramatic changes in dining behavior and seeking to address both reduced consumption and financial constraints facing customers.

    The pharmaceutical landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with Novo Nordisk recently receiving US approval for a pill-form version of Wegovy, potentially expanding accessibility to weight-loss medications. This development suggests the restaurant industry’s adaptation may represent a lasting transformation rather than a temporary trend.

    Nutrition expert Marion Nestle, professor emerita at New York University, characterizes this phenomenon as a “vast human experiment” with profound sociocultural implications. While acknowledging the medications’ “miraculous” benefits for some, she notes the fundamental shift in how people relate to food—from pleasure source to potential adversary.

    Beyond medication users, these portion adjustments benefit budget-conscious diners navigating inflationary pressures. Many customers have remarked that these smaller offerings resemble traditional portion sizes from decades past, suggesting a potential normalization of more moderate consumption patterns in American dining culture.

    As restaurants consider expanding these offerings to dinner service and developing additional miniaturized dishes, the industry demonstrates remarkable adaptability in responding to both medical advancements and evolving consumer preferences in post-Super Size America.