In early 2025, TikTok intensified content moderation in the UAE, removing over a million videos for violating guidelines. With a 98.2% proactive removal rate, 94% videos were taken down within 24 hours. Nearly 87,000 live hosts were banned, and 140,000 livestreams shut down. Across MENA, 16.5 million videos were removed.
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A Myanmar junta air strike on the rebel-held ruby mining center of Mogok resulted in 13 fatalities, including a monk and civilians. The Ta'ang National Liberation Army reported 14 injuries following the morning strike on a public area. This incident occurs amidst ongoing civil war and resistance since the 2021 coup, with both sides vying for control of resource-rich areas.
In 2024, the GCC's economy grew steadily, with real GDP rising 3.3% in Q4 and 2.4% over the year, driven by non-oil sectors like manufacturing and trade. Nominal GDP rose 1.5%, reflecting lower oil prices. Non-oil activities now dominate both real and nominal GDP, signaling a clear shift away from oil dependence through structural reforms and investment.
Air Arabia will add a third daily flight between Sharjah and Bangkok starting October 26, 2025, increasing its total to three round-trip services daily. Operated by fuel-efficient Airbus A321neo-LR aircraft, the expansion aims to meet growing demand, enhance connectivity, and support tourism and trade between the UAE and Thailand, with flexible timings to suit all travelers.
Hundreds mourned Officer Didarul Islam, a Bangladesh-born NYPD officer, at a New York mosque after he was fatally shot during a private security assignment. Remembered for his dedication to family, heritage, and service, Islam was posthumously promoted to detective.
Oman's OPAZ joined the World Free Zones Organization. This move aims to enhance Oman's global standing. It also seeks to improve operational expertise. The goal is to attract more investment. This aligns with Oman's Vision 2040. The membership provides access to global best practices. It also strengthens institutional links. Oman manages 23 free zones. These zones have attracted significant investment.
Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade surged 34.7% in H1 2025 to AED195.4 billion (USD53.2 billion), driven by strong export, import, and re-export growth. The rise reflects successful diversification efforts, advanced infrastructure, and streamlined trade systems. Strategic investments and global trade partnerships continue to position the emirate as a key international trade and logistics hub.
Kuwaiti authorities dismantled a major drug distribution network, seizing over 800,000 Lyrica capsules. The operation was directed by an inmate from Central Prison, utilizing air freight from Asia and a rented livestock enclosure for storage and repackaging. This bust highlights Kuwait's commitment to combating international narcotics syndicates and safeguarding public health by intercepting illicit drug flows.
In Q1 2025, domestic workers constitute 25.2% of Kuwait's expatriate labor, totaling 745,000, a 5.6% decrease from last year. Indians lead both domestic (42.2%) and overall expatriate employment (35.3%). Workers from India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Bangladesh comprise nearly 90% of the domestic labor force, reflecting shifts in Kuwait's labor market.
Emil Bove, ex-lawyer for Donald Trump, is now a judge. The US Senate confirmed him to the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals. The vote was close, with opposition from Democrats. They raised concerns about his loyalty to Trump. Bove denied any wrongdoing during his confirmation. He will now oversee appeals from Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, reviewed by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan, aims to empower Emirati families through financial, social, and educational support. Aligned with Dubai Social Agenda 33, it has boosted marriage rates, offered housing and wedding aid, and fostered youth stability. Leaders praised its impact in building strong, value-driven, and future-ready households.