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The UAE has established the National Anti-Narcotics Authority under a federal decree issued by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan has been appointed as its Chairman. The Authority is tasked with unifying drug control efforts nationwide through coordinated legislation, enforcement, prevention, and monitoring of narcotics-related threats.
A small plane crashed into the ocean near Oak Island Pier on Saturday evening. The pilot, the sole occupant, was rescued and treated for minor injuries. A witness captured the incident on video, expressing alarm as the aircraft submerged. The FAA has taken over the investigation after the Coast Guard's initial response.
Over 550 retired Israeli security officials, including ex-Mossad and Shin Bet chiefs, have urged US President Trump to pressure Netanyahu to end the Gaza war and secure hostage release, asserting Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat. They advocate for a deal, supported by a regional coalition, to administer post-war Gaza.
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.
Tourists visiting Saudi Arabia can now reclaim the 15% VAT on eligible retail purchases made from ZATCA-approved stores. To qualify, purchases must exceed SAR 500 (approx.$133), be for personal use, and be exported within 90 days. Refunds are processed at airport counters/kiosks with proper documentation. Use Global Blue tools to locate participating retailers and ensure compliance
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.
The UAE has announced fuel prices for August 2025. Petrol prices saw a slight drop of 1 fils per litre, while diesel rose sharply by 15 fils. The revision follows July’s hike, which was driven by global tensions and rising oil prices. The UAE adjusts fuel rates monthly in line with international market trends under its deregulated pricing policy.
White House trade advisor Peter Navarro suggests Donald Trump deserves a Nobel Prize in economics for fundamentally restructuring global trade through aggressive tariff policies and prioritizing American economic interests. Navarro highlights trade deals with countries like the UK, Japan, and the EU, along with ongoing talks with China, as evidence of Trump's success.
Bahrain is preparing for a total lunar eclipse on September 7, 2025, a rare event turning the moon a deep red. Visible from 7:28 pm to 10:56 pm, the peak "blood moon" phase will last about 1 hour and 22 minutes. The eclipse, safe to view without special equipment, aligns with Salat Al-Khusuf, holding both scientific and cultural significance.
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.