Saudi Arabia's Qiwa platform now mandates a 60-day grace period before an employee is marked "absent from work." This allows disconnected workers to re-contract, transfer sponsorships, or exit the country. Failure to act within this window results in automatic removal from employer records and notification to relevant ministries, enhancing transparency and worker rights.
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A viral video complaining about the large Indian presence at a Frisco, Texas Costco has sparked controversy. The post, decrying an "Indian takeover," drew accusations of racism. An NRI Instagram account responded, highlighting the contributions of H-1B holders who live, work, and pay taxes in Frisco.
South Korea faces a critical issue as elderly suicide rates surge, driven by isolation, financial struggles, and societal neglect. Over 18,000 seniors died by suicide between 2019 and 2023, highlighting a crisis often overlooked. Experts urge immediate intervention through mental health programs, community support, and pension reforms to address this growing demographic challenge.
Minneapolis faced hazardous air quality, ranking second-worst globally due to Canadian wildfire smoke. Air quality alerts spanned across the Midwest, impacting states like Iowa and Michigan. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and use air purifiers. The crisis highlights the cross-border impact of wildfires and the need for environmental preparedness, especially after pollution regulation rollbacks.
Saudi Arabia has established a national Medical Referral Centre to streamline patient transfers and treatment coordination, both domestically and internationally. Overseen by the Health Minister, the center aims to optimize resource use, reduce wait times, and ensure equitable access to high-quality medical services. This initiative aligns with Vision 2030's goals for healthcare transformation and digital advancement.
Two Thai women, owners of a date palm farm with over 5,000 trees, became the first foreigners to receive the UAE Golden Visa for cultivating dates abroad. Nominated during the 2025 Dubai Dates Festival, their proactive cultural engagement and entrepreneurial efforts in promoting date farming earned them this unique recognition, highlighting a rare blend of agriculture, business, and heritage promotion.
The European Union has decided to suspend its planned retaliatory tariffs on US goods, valued at 93 billion euros, following a trade agreement between US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This six-month pause, a significant concession from the EU, aims to restore stability and predictability for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.
Emirates is set to launch its fourth daily flight between Dubai and London Gatwick on February 8, 2026. Operated by the advanced Airbus A350-900, the new service enhances travel flexibility with state-of-the-art interiors and entertainment. This expansion underscores Emirates' commitment to the UK market, offering passengers more choices and seamless connections.
US Senator Elizabeth Warren's unexpected fall on the Senate floor during a vote on resolutions concerning military sales to Israel prompted a rare bipartisan moment. Republican Senators, including Ted Cruz and Susan Collins, swiftly rushed to assist her. The incident occurred amidst heated debates on Senator Sanders' resolutions, opposed by every Republican.
Saudi Arabia managed unprecedented air traffic during Hajj 2025, facilitating over 140,000 flights, an 8% increase from last year. A record 2,338 flights occurred on a single day. The Saudi Air Navigation Services coordinated with 213 airlines, showcasing the Kingdom's pivotal role in global connectivity and its commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient pilgrimage for millions.
Michael Paul Brown is wanted for a mass shooting at The Owl Bar in Anaconda in which four people died. Brown, an Army veteran, is considered armed and dangerous. He was last seen driving a stolen white pickup truck. Authorities are searching the Stumptown area. A friend says Brown suffered from untreated PTSD and told people delusional stories of still serving in the Army.