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.
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Oman has broadened its Omanisation policy, adding engineering, IT, quality control, and technical roles to the list of professions restricted to non-Omani workers. The changes, effective immediately for some positions and phased in until 2027 for others, aim to prioritize employment for Omani nationals. This initiative impacts over 30 professions across various sectors, requiring employers to adjust their workforce strategies.
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.
Donald Trump asserted that late-night hosts Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel, and Jimmy Fallon lack talent and predicted their shows' cancellation. Trump referenced Colbert's program termination, attributing it to a lack of talent and anticipating similar fates for Fallon and Kimmel. He also commented on Howard Stern's declining influence after Stern supported Hillary Clinton.
Kuwait's Justice Ministry is set to digitize all legal services soon. This will impact citizens, residents, lawyers, and court staff. Filing cases, receiving notifications, and paying fees will be online. Court procedures will become faster, and judgments will be enforced quickly. The ministry is partnering with Google and Microsoft for this digital shift.
A Russian media outlet's search for a Chinese man photographed with President Putin 25 years ago captivated Chinese social media. Peng Pai, now an engineer, recalls Putin's affectionate gesture in a Beijing park sparking his interest in Russia. He studied in Moscow on a scholarship and now leads an engineering department in China.
Reshma Kewalramani, the Mumbai-born CEO of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, secures a spot on Fortune's 2025 list of the 100 Most Powerful People in Business, ranking at 62. As the first Indian-origin woman to lead a major US biotech firm, her leadership has propelled Vertex to a $110 billion valuation, marked by innovations like the FDA-approved non-opioid pain treatment, Journavx.
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.
A powerful earthquake in Russia's Far East seemingly impacted the Rybachiy submarine base, a key Pacific Fleet installation. Satellite imagery indicates damage to a floating pier, with one section detached. Despite this, the facility appears largely intact, with submarines safely moored. While Russian officials remain silent, radiation levels are normal.
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.
Saudi Arabia has welcomed over 1.2 million Umrah pilgrims from 109 countries since June 11, 2025, marking a 30% rise from last year. Backed by 89 new initiatives, stricter accommodation rules via Nusuk Masar, and advanced digital platforms, the Kingdom is delivering a safer, smarter, and more spiritually enriching Umrah experience for pilgrims in the 2025–2026 season.