Global Pulse

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  • UAE gold prices: After 3 days of record highs, precious metal dips on Christmas

    UAE gold prices: After 3 days of record highs, precious metal dips on Christmas

    Dubai’s gold market witnessed a slight pullback on Christmas Day, interrupting a three-day streak of record-breaking valuations. The opening rates on Thursday saw 24K gold trading at Dh539.75 per gram, a modest decline from Wednesday’s peak of Dh542 per gram.

    Concurrently, other variants including 22K, 21K, 18K, and 14K were quoted at Dh499.75, Dh479, Dh410.75, and Dh320.25 respectively. In global markets, spot gold held steady at $4,479.53 per ounce by mid-morning, while silver demonstrated remarkable stability at $71.91 per ounce.

    The recent correction follows an extraordinary monthly performance where gold appreciated by 7.48% and silver skyrocketed by an impressive 35.36% over the past thirty days. This sustained rally has significantly altered consumer behavior in the UAE, with shoppers increasingly opting for lighter jewelry pieces or shifting preferences toward diamond accessories amid escalating prices.

    Market analysts attribute gold’s resilience to multiple supportive factors. Joseph Dahrieh, Managing Principal at Tickmill, noted that despite the consolidation, the metal remains underpinned by sustained safe-haven demand. “Geopolitical tensions across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America continue to drive避险资产 (safe-haven asset) flows with little evidence of near-term de-escalation,” Dahrieh explained.

    The robust US economic data, including Q3 GDP growth at 4.3% annualized pace, has surprisingly failed to alter the broader macroeconomic narrative. Market expectations continue to price in monetary easing in 2026, with a base case of two rate cuts that could further support gold valuations.

    Investment flows remain decidedly positive with gold-backed ETFs recording renewed inflows and central banks consistently adding to their reserves. This combination of accommodative rate expectations and persistent geopolitical uncertainty is expected to remain the primary driver shaping gold’s trajectory in the coming months.

    Industry experts have characterized 2025 as a defining year for precious metals, with many analysts maintaining a broadly bullish outlook. Price forecasts predominantly cluster between $4,500 to $5,000 per ounce, suggesting the recent dip may represent a temporary consolidation rather than a trend reversal.

  • Record gold prices push UAE families to buy fewer, lighter wedding jewellery pieces

    Record gold prices push UAE families to buy fewer, lighter wedding jewellery pieces

    In the United Arab Emirates, a nation renowned for its golden heritage, unprecedented price levels are fundamentally transforming how families approach wedding jewellery purchases. Dubai, long celebrated as the ‘City of Gold,’ is witnessing a significant evolution in consumer behavior as gold values continue trading near all-time highs.

    Market analysis reveals this price surge stems from deeper structural shifts rather than temporary market fluctuations. According to financial experts, central banks worldwide are executing long-term strategic moves toward gold accumulation, effectively constricting supply and establishing a robust price foundation that persists despite retail buyer caution.

    This economic reality has prompted Emirati families to reconsider traditional wedding customs. Rather than abandoning gold entirely, consumers are demonstrating increased selectivity and practicality. The trend now favors lighter, more meaningful pieces over multiple heavy items, with many families incorporating heirloom jewellery to both reduce costs and enhance emotional significance.

    Jewellery preferences are shifting from traditional 22K and 21K pieces toward 18K and even 14K options, accompanied by growing interest in minimalist designs. Industry professionals note this transition represents market evolution rather than decline, with jewellers increasingly emphasizing craftsmanship and design innovation over mere weight.

    Financial analysts identify three primary drivers sustaining gold’s strength: sustained institutional demand, ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, and anticipations of lower interest rates. This combination creates structurally supported market conditions likely to persist despite potential short-term stabilization periods.

    Despite these adjustments, gold maintains its cultural significance in UAE wedding traditions. During peak seasons like the Dubai Shopping Festival, demand remains resilient as families prioritize symbolic value over temporary price fluctuations, ensuring gold’s enduring role in marital celebrations.

  • How Dubai may be only hope for 3-year-old boy born with spinal muscular atrophy

    How Dubai may be only hope for 3-year-old boy born with spinal muscular atrophy

    In a remarkable medical journey, a three-year-old Turkish boy named Hulus has arrived in Dubai with his family seeking groundbreaking gene therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)—a rare genetic condition that progressively weakens muscles essential for movement, breathing, and swallowing. Left untreated, SMA often proves fatal for infants and can cause severe disability in older children.

    The United Arab Emirates made medical history earlier this year by becoming the second nation worldwide to approve a revolutionary gene therapy treatment for SMA in eligible patients aged two years and above. This medical advancement delivers a functional gene through a one-time surgical procedure to replace the faulty gene responsible for the condition, potentially halting disease progression and significantly improving quality of life.

    Hulus’s father, Mustafa Ser, a chef from Turkey, explained their desperate search for solutions: “We conducted extensive research through social media and connected with other families affected by SMA. Discovering Dubai’s gene therapy program became our beacon of hope.” The family exhausted their life savings and initiated fundraising campaigns to afford the travel and treatment expenses.

    Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital in Dubai is overseeing Hulus’s treatment, facilitating visa arrangements and providing comprehensive medical supervision. According to Dr. Vivek Mundada, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at the hospital, “This treatment represents a genuine paradigm shift in SMA care. We’re not only discussing saving lives but preserving independence and functionality in older children and adults.”

    The treatment involves a approximately 30-minute surgical procedure under anesthesia, where the gene therapy is administered via spinal injection. Patients require careful monitoring afterward for potential side effects.

    Hulus’s daily life has centered around intensive therapy regimens, including physiotherapy six days weekly and hydrotherapy sessions. His family has adapted their home environment with specialized equipment to support his continuous physical development.

    Despite the promising treatment, Hulus faces lifelong medical monitoring, including regular assessments of liver enzymes, cardiac function, and respiratory health. His educational path will initially require specialized schooling accommodations.

    The family’s journey highlights both the extraordinary medical advancements emerging from the UAE and the ongoing challenges faced by families dealing with rare genetic disorders worldwide.

  • UN Security Council members urge deescalation of tensions in Venezuela

    UN Security Council members urge deescalation of tensions in Venezuela

    The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session on Tuesday addressing the rapidly deteriorating situation in Venezuela, with the overwhelming majority of member states urging restraint and adherence to international law. The meeting, requested by Venezuela itself, revealed deep international divisions over U.S. military actions in the region.

    Venezuelan Permanent Representative Samuel Moncada Acosta delivered a forceful condemnation of American foreign policy, characterizing recent U.S. actions as an extension of historical hemispheric dominance. “The ambition is continental,” Acosta asserted, referencing what he described as a modern enactment of the Monroe Doctrine exacerbated by what he termed the “Trump Corollary” in U.S. national security strategy.

    The diplomatic confrontation intensified as Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia denounced American seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers and the imposition of a naval blockade as violations of multiple international legal frameworks. “The illegal U.S. blockade of Venezuela’s coastline is a genuine act of aggression,” Nebenzia stated, warning that Washington’s actions signal a broader pattern of intervention against sovereign nations pursuing independent policies.

    China’s Deputy Permanent Representative Sun Lei joined the criticism, calling for immediate cessation of U.S. campaigns against Venezuela. Sun emphasized that Venezuela’s rights as a sovereign state to develop international cooperation and defend its legitimate interests should receive international respect and support. “China opposes all acts of unilateralism and bullying,” Sun declared, positioning China as a defender of multilateral principles and national sovereignty.

    The emergency session concluded with widespread calls for de-escalation, though no formal resolution was immediately proposed. The meeting highlighted growing international concern that the Venezuela situation could trigger broader regional instability and challenge fundamental principles of international law.

  • UAE: Scammed with fake tickets? How to get your money back

    UAE: Scammed with fake tickets? How to get your money back

    United Arab Emirates residents are confronting an escalating wave of sophisticated digital fraud schemes, ranging from counterfeit ticket platforms to deceptive investment opportunities and fraudulent rental listings. Cybersecurity authorities have intensified public advisories following a notable increase in financial scams targeting consumers through seemingly legitimate online channels.

    A recent case involving a British expatriate, identified pseudonymously as Marie, illustrates the growing threat. While attempting to purchase concert tickets through what appeared to be an official venue website, Marie inadvertently provided her credit card information to a fraudulent platform. The site’s URL contained a subtle spelling variation that escaped initial detection. Within moments of authorizing a one-time password (OTP), Dh8,000 was illicitly withdrawn from her account.

    Immediate response protocols proved critical in her case. Marie promptly contacted her banking institution’s dedicated fraud hotline—a service option prominently featured in customer service menus, indicating the frequency of such incidents. Financial and legal experts emphasize that rapid notification of both financial institutions and law enforcement represents the essential first step in mitigating losses.

    Salman Madkour, Senior Associate at BSA LAW, outlines the legal framework: ‘UAE legislation mandates immediate reporting to competent authorities alongside comprehensive evidence documentation. Financial institutions must examine complaints under Central Bank regulations, while victims retain rights to pursue criminal charges, fund recovery, and compensation for material and moral damages.’

    Cybersecurity specialist Bertil Brendeke of Comet Backup LTD recommends implementing multi-factor authentication, facial recognition systems, and transaction delay features as preventive measures. ‘Consumer awareness regarding critical application security and immediate response protocols for stolen devices remains paramount,’ Brendeke emphasized.

    Marie’s persistent engagement across police smart applications, banking channels, and direct branch visits ultimately resulted in full financial recovery after three months. Her experience underscores the importance of payment method selection—credit cards provided greater fraud protection than debit alternatives.

    Authorities advise consumers to meticulously verify website URLs for subtle discrepancies, thoroughly review OTP messages including transaction amounts, and avoid unofficial ticket vendors. While preventive measures remain the optimal defense, legal frameworks exist to support victims through formal recourse channels.

  • Watch: Moment robbers rip ATM from inside Texas store

    Watch: Moment robbers rip ATM from inside Texas store

    Law enforcement authorities in White Settlement, Texas, have launched a comprehensive investigation following a daring overnight robbery where perpetrators successfully extracted an automated teller machine from a local commercial establishment. The entire incident was captured on the store’s surveillance system, providing investigators with crucial visual evidence.

    The security footage reveals two unidentified individuals executing a meticulously planned operation inside the premises after hours. Using specialized equipment, the suspects forcibly removed the entire ATM unit from its secured location before making their escape. The precision of the operation suggests significant prior planning and familiarity with the equipment used in such thefts.

    White Settlement Police Department has circulated still images from the surveillance video and is appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the culprits. Preliminary assessments indicate the suspects employed a vehicle capable of transporting the heavy banking machinery, though specific details regarding the make and model remain undisclosed as the investigation continues.

    The incident has raised concerns among local business owners about security preparedness against organized theft operations targeting cash-intensive businesses. Police officials have advised commercial establishments to review their security protocols and consider additional protective measures for high-value equipment located on their properties.

  • Where is Santa now? Trump answers kids’ Christmas calls to Norad tracker

    Where is Santa now? Trump answers kids’ Christmas calls to Norad tracker

    In a unique fusion of presidential duty and holiday spirit, former President Donald Trump participated in one of America’s most cherished Christmas traditions. On December 24th, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) celebrated the 70th anniversary of its Santa Tracker program, receiving unexpected assistance from the nation’s highest office.

    The historic program, which originated from a misprinted newspaper advertisement in 1955, has evolved into a massive volunteer operation that fields hundreds of thousands of inquiries from children worldwide each Christmas Eve. This year’s milestone event featured President Trump personally answering calls from curious children seeking updates on Santa’s global journey.

    The presidential participation represents a continuation of a White House tradition embraced by multiple administrations, though each brings their distinctive style to the seasonal ritual. NORAD’s tracker combines sophisticated military technology including radar systems, satellites, and fighter jets with thousands of volunteers working through the night at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado.

    The program demonstrates how military infrastructure can be repurposed for heartwarming civilian engagement, bridging national security with childhood wonder. For seven decades, NORAD has provided real-time updates on Santa’s position, maintaining the magic of Christmas while showcasing American organizational capability and holiday generosity on a global scale.

  • Quiz of the Year 2025, Part 1: Which star teased her engagement on the red carpet?

    Quiz of the Year 2025, Part 1: Which star teased her engagement on the red carpet?

    As the year’s inaugural quarter concluded, a series of disparate yet significant events captured global attention. Raging wildfires inflicted severe damage across Los Angeles, marking a devastating start to the year for California residents. In the political arena, President Joe Biden formally transitioned from the White House, an event of substantial historical importance. Simultaneously, actress Millie Bobby Brown made headlines by confronting media outlets over what she characterized as bullying journalism practices.

    These events, while prominent, represent merely a fraction of the quarter’s complete news landscape. To assess public awareness of global happenings, The Guardian has launched its comprehensive annual Christmas quiz. This four-part examination features 52 questions corresponding to each week of the year, challenging participants’ recollection of January through March events across politics, environmental crises, and entertainment industry developments.

    Compiled by journalist Ben Fell, the quiz serves as both an entertaining challenge and a measure of news literacy. For enthusiasts seeking additional mental exercise, the publication offers access to archived quizzes from previous years, enabling comparative analysis of how global events have evolved over time.

  • China opposes US pressure on Venezuela

    China opposes US pressure on Venezuela

    China has issued a firm diplomatic challenge to United States policy toward Venezuela during an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council. The confrontation emerged as Chinese Deputy Permanent Representative Sun Lei delivered a pointed address condemning Washington’s approach to the Caribbean nation.

    Speaking at Tuesday’s emergency meeting convened to address regional tensions, Ambassador Sun articulated Beijing’s strong objections to what he characterized as escalating American measures against Venezuela. The Chinese diplomat specifically cited three concerning developments: intensified economic sanctions, comprehensive blockades, and overt military threats directed toward the Venezuelan government.

    The emergency session, which focused on broader Caribbean security concerns, provided the diplomatic arena for this latest exchange between the world’s two largest economies. China’s position aligns with its consistent foreign policy principle of non-interference in sovereign nations’ internal affairs, a stance that frequently places it at odds with Western interventionist approaches.

    This diplomatic confrontation occurs amid ongoing political and economic instability in Venezuela, where leadership disputes and economic challenges have persisted for several years. The United States has maintained various sanctions against officials of the Nicolás Maduro administration while recognizing opposition figures as legitimate leaders.

    China’s vocal opposition at the Security Council level represents a significant elevation of the diplomatic discourse surrounding Venezuela and signals Beijing’s willingness to directly challenge American foreign policy in international forums. The exchange highlights continuing geopolitical tensions between major powers regarding appropriate approaches to regional conflicts and governance disputes.

  • Look: Christmas Tree Cluster spotted in UAE’s starry skies amid festive fervour

    Look: Christmas Tree Cluster spotted in UAE’s starry skies amid festive fervour

    Pure Bliss Development, a subsidiary of the prominent Lals Group, has officially announced the successful topping out of its flagship Bliss Tower project. This significant construction milestone was reached at the prestigious Dubai Land Residence Complex, marking a pivotal moment in the development’s timeline.

    The achievement symbolizes the structural completion of the high-rise residential tower, with the final beam placed atop the structure in a traditional ceremony. This event not only highlights the project’s adherence to its scheduled progress but also demonstrates Lals Group’s commitment to expanding its luxury real estate portfolio within Dubai’s competitive property market.

    Bliss Tower represents a substantial investment in Dubai’s growing residential sector, offering premium amenities and sophisticated living spaces designed to meet the demands of discerning residents. The development’s strategic location within Dubai Land Residence Complex positions it as an attractive option for both local and international investors seeking opportunities in the emirate’s dynamic real estate landscape.

    The project’s advancement comes amid sustained growth in Dubai’s construction sector, reflecting continued confidence in the city’s property market despite global economic uncertainties. Industry analysts note that such milestones typically accelerate pre-completion sales activities and often signal the beginning of interior finishing phases.

    Lals Group’s expansion through Pure Bliss Development underscores the company’s strategic vision to capitalize on Dubai’s status as a global hub for luxury living and investment opportunities. The completion of Bliss Tower’s structural framework sets the stage for the next phase of development, which will focus on interior enhancements and final preparations for handover to prospective residents.