TRENDING NEWS
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi called for closer coordination with Europe to protect food, energy and commodity supply chains. He highlighted the impact of maritime disruptions and higher transport costs on global trade, leading to increased commodity and food prices. The ministerial meeting in New York focused on food security, fertiliser access and the movement of essential goods through major trade corridors. Discussions centered on strengthening supply chain resilience, reducing risks affecting maritime transport, and supporting reliable exports within prevailing security conditions. The meeting also addressed keeping international trade open and predictable during transport disruptions, emphasizing the use of alternative routes and stronger regional storage networks. Albudaiwi urged progress in economic cooperation between the GCC and EU, highlighting trade, regulation, electricity links, clean hydrogen, and investment as areas for further work.
Consumer price data shows transport and food led Oman’s annual inflation in August. Transport costs increased by 8.5% from August 2025, representing the largest annual rise among major consumer segments. The food and non-alcoholic beverages category followed with a 7% uptick. Personal goods and services, including miscellaneous items, rose by 6.1%, while restaurant and hotel prices increased 3.6%. Furniture, household appliances, and routine household upkeep saw a 3.1% increase. Education costs grew by 2.2%, and healthcare expenses rose 1.7%. Prices for culture and recreational activities went up slightly by 0.4%. Several other categories experienced more modest changes. Clothing and footwear prices edged up by 0.1%, while communication services and tobacco costs remained stable compared to the previous year. Conversely, housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels decreased by 0.6%. The August data also revealed notable disparities across Oman’s governorates. According to official consumer price figures, annual inflation varied from 2.1% in Dhofar to 4.8% in Al Dhahirah. Transport and Food Lead August Price Escalation Al Dhahirah experienced the highest annual inflation rate among the governorates at 4.8%. Muscat followed with 3.9%, while Al Dakhiliyah registered 3.8%. Al Wusta reported 3.4%, and both Musandam and Al
During his visit to Germany, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held discussions with top German business executives and corporate heads in Berlin. These engagements took place amid his official state visit, where, at a high-level roundtable, the UAE President was briefed extensively on corporate activities, industrial projects, and technological advancements across significant European manufacturing sectors. The talks aimed to strengthen cross-border economic links as both nations seek to broaden commercial collaborations, joint investment initiatives, and bilateral trade, especially in strategic growth markets.
The World Health Organization reports that certain regions within the Democratic Republic of the Congo demonstrate signs of advancement in combating Ebola. Transmission rates have decreased in multiple locations, notably in Ituri province, which remains the central hub of the outbreak. As of September 13, national statistics indicate 7,258 confirmed cases and 3,510 fatalities across seven provinces. The total recoveries have reached 1,726, with a case fatality ratio of 48.4% overall.
Legionella DNA Detected in Yankee Stadium Cooling Tower During NYC Investigation NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – New York City health authorities identified Legionella DNA in a Yankee Stadium cooling tower amid an investigation into a South Bronx outbreak. The city confirmed 11 cases of Legionnaires’ disease by Tuesday night, with one fatality and three patients still hospitalized. The New York City Health Department detected preliminary positive PCR results in 10 out of 24 sampled cooling towers across ZIP codes 10451 and 10456.Yankee Stadium is included in New York City’s South Bronx cooling tower investigation. The impacted areas cover sections of Melrose and Morrisania neighborhoods. As part of tracing potential environmental sources of the infections, health officials tested cooling towers. PCR testing identifies genetic material from Legionella bacteria but does not confirm if the bacteria are alive. Culturing tests, which determine whether viable bacteria are present, can take up to two weeks, according to officials. The Yankees clarified that the current outbreak has not been associated with Yankee Stadium. They stated that their cooling towers, installed in 2024, undergo regular water quality assessments. A Legionella test on Aug. 20 returned negative. Additionally, the team conducted weekly water quality and bacteriological indicator tests on Aug. 26, Sept. 2, and Sept. 9, prior to city investigators sampling the stadium on Sept. 11. Stadium tower disinfected as city expands testing efforts All 10 cooling towers with preliminary
Lahore consumers face retail food prices that remain well above official government rates. Despite government efforts to reduce prices, many shoppers in Lahore continue to pay well above official rates, with the discrepancy spanning across chicken, vegetables, and fruit markets. Consumers face these elevated costs amid ongoing inflationary pressures and rising fuel expenses. Official data indicate that household expenses are climbing across various categories, further straining families already burdened by higher costs for basic necessities like food and transportation.
Commercial passenger aircraft taxi along airport runways during peak international travel hours. The seasonal results reflect increased passenger capacity and improved load factors on key long-haul routes linking North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific. International aviation channels report that early bookings for the upcoming holiday period remain high across both premium cabins and economy. Industry analysts note that the consistent passenger flow indicates a resilient structure within the international long-haul aviation sector. To meet anticipated winter passenger numbers, Emirates is accelerating its multi-billion-dollar fleet upgrade and product enhancement initiatives. The airline continues to incorporate newly retrofitted Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft into service, further expanding the availability of its popular Premium Economy cabin on additional long-haul routes. Emirates starts the winter season with strong booking demand as its fleet retrofit efforts boost premium seat options on major intercontinental routes. Fleet Modernization Program Focuses on Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 Cabin Upgrades Beyond cabin improvements, Emirates is increasing its flight frequencies and introducing new international destinations ahead of the winter timetable. The expansion in routes is complemented by growing interline and codeshare collaborations, enabling seamless connections across secondary and regional airports worldwide. Management emphasized that these strategic partnerships help capture feeder traffic from emerging regional markets. The airline’s operational capacity continues to bolster trade, tourism, and business travel centered at Dubai International Airport. Increased frequencies on high-demand routes are designed to accommodate the expected surge in passengers associated with major global conventions, trade fairs, and winter holiday travel across
During the high-level plenary session, the two leaders engaged in structured discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and attracting more institutional investment. Focus areas included advancing economic collaborations, infrastructure projects, renewable energy initiatives, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Sheikh Mohamed expressed confidence in the visit’s potential to open new avenues for constructive commercial partnerships and sustained economic development, welcoming the Albanian delegation warmly. The discussions underscored shared commitments to environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation strategies.
Gold prices stayed above $4,400 an ounce on Thursday after reversing an earlier decline from the previous session. The spot gold price increased 0.3% to $4,414.28 an ounce by 0419 GMT, while U.S. gold futures for December slipped 0.1% to $4,457.20. During Asian trading, the dollar remained subdued, supporting bullion priced in the U.S. currency. Gold approached Thursday near the higher levels seen late Wednesday, having recovered from earlier losses recorded earlier that day.
Business
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi called for closer coordination with Europe to protect food, energy and commodity supply chains. He highlighted the impact of maritime disruptions and higher transport costs on global trade, leading to increased commodity and food prices. The ministerial meeting in New York focused on food security, fertiliser access and the movement of essential goods through major trade corridors. Discussions centered on strengthening supply chain resilience, reducing risks affecting maritime transport, and supporting reliable exports within prevailing security conditions. The meeting also addressed keeping international trade open and predictable during transport disruptions, emphasizing the use of alternative routes and stronger regional storage networks. Albudaiwi urged progress in economic cooperation between the GCC and EU, highlighting trade, regulation, electricity links, clean hydrogen, and investment as areas for further work.
News
Abdullah bin Zayed takes part in New York discussions on Middle East peace and stability. Representing various countries, the meeting featured Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa also participated. Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah was present along with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan contributed to the discussions as well. The broader regional group was completed by senior representatives from Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan. Discussions centered around security, stability, and development initiatives in the Middle East. The group also examined ways to enhance international cooperation to address regional and global challenges. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the UAE’s backing for efforts that promote de-escalation and lasting peace. He drew a connection between regional stability, economic growth, and overall prosperity. These conversations echoed many issues addressed at the UN gathering, where leaders often utilize formal sessions and separate meetings to tackle security, development, and diplomatic relations. Regional Security at the Forefront of New York Talks During the discussion, Sheikh Abdullah also highlighted the relationship between the UAE and the United States. He pointed out the strong cooperation based on shared interests, mutual respect, and longstanding ties. The two nations collaborate extensively across economic, political, and development sectors. Additionally, Sheikh Abdullah recognized President Trump’s efforts
Typhoon Dujuan brings heavy rain, landslide risk and travel disruption across eastern Japan. At noon, Dujuan was progressing north-northeast over waters west of Hachijojima, maintaining an extensive storm-force wind zone. Meteorologists tracked the storm’s movement toward the Izu Islands and the Kanto area. It was forecasted to pass near Kanto later Monday as it sped northeastward. Weather authorities issued warnings for fierce winds, rough seas, and additional heavy rainfall along eastern Pacific coastal regions. They also monitored for linear rain bands, which can produce intense localized downpours within a short span. The storm caused damage and led to closures across several prefectures. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism reported three landslides in Chiba by 2 p.m., destroying one home and partially damaging another. Additionally, two landslides occurred in Miyazaki, resulting in one death and one injury. Heavy rains prompted the closure of 32 sections on six expressways and three national roads. Flooding and fallen trees also shut down 16 prefectural roads across Ibaraki, Saitama, and Chiba.
The death toll from the September 18 attack on Kohat’s Old Police Lines has risen to 23, including 17 police personnel and six civilians, according to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and Rescue 1122. The assault began during Friday prayers when an explosives-laden vehicle detonated near a mosque inside the police complex. Armed attackers then entered the compound and opened fire. Rescue teams moved scores of wounded people to hospitals as security forces sealed the area.
UAE and Senegal advance bilateral talks on economic cooperation and global water priorities. Sheikh Mohamed welcomed Faye and highlighted areas where the two nations already work closely together. Economic cooperation was a central focus of the meeting, with both presidents considering opportunities linked to investment and development priorities in their countries. These discussions occurred amidst ongoing official exchanges between Abu Dhabi and Dakar. Throughout 2026, UAE and Senegalese officials have held multiple meetings centered on trade, investment, government collaboration, and preparations for a significant global water conference. The officials also addressed the upcoming 2026 United Nations Water Conference, which the UAE and Senegal are set to co-host. Scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10, the conference aims to accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6. This goal advocates for universal access to water and sanitation, as well as sustainable water resource management. Participants will include governments, international organizations, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders involved in water policy. Water summit plays a key role in discussions The United Nations has organized six interactive sessions for the December event, focusing on water for people, prosperity, the planet, cooperation, multilateral processes, and investment. The agenda will also cover financing, technological advancements, innovation, and capacity building. According to UN data, approximately 2.1 billion individuals still lack access to safely managed drinking water, and around 3.4 billion lack access to safely managed sanitation services. These issues are central to
Abdullah bin Zayed takes part in New York discussions on Middle East peace and stability. Representing various countries, the meeting featured Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa also participated. Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah was present along with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan contributed to the discussions as well. The broader regional group was completed by senior representatives from Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan. Discussions centered around security, stability, and development initiatives in the Middle East. The group also examined ways to enhance international cooperation to address regional and global challenges. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the UAE’s backing for efforts that promote de-escalation and lasting peace. He drew a connection between regional stability, economic growth, and overall prosperity. These conversations echoed many issues addressed at the UN gathering, where leaders often utilize formal sessions and separate meetings to tackle security, development, and diplomatic relations. Regional Security at the Forefront of New York Talks During the discussion, Sheikh Abdullah also highlighted the relationship between the UAE and the United States. He pointed out the strong cooperation based on shared interests, mutual respect, and longstanding ties. The two nations collaborate extensively across economic, political, and development sectors. Additionally, Sheikh Abdullah recognized President Trump’s efforts
Health
Technology
Apple has expanded its iPhone lineup with the addition of a foldable device, the iPhone Duo. The company announced the product on Sept. 9, with preorders set to open on Oct. 16. U.S. pricing starts at $1,999, while in the UAE, the base price is AED 8,499. Sales will commence on Oct. 23 across over 70 countries and regions. This launch marks Apple’s first smartphone with a book-style design featuring separate outer and inner displays. The iPhone Duo is Apple’s first foldable iPhone and starts at $1,999 in the US. The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch outer screen for regular use when the device remains closed. When opened, it reveals a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR display designed for larger applications and multitasking. Both screens support ProMotion and Always-On functions, with outdoor brightness capable of reaching 3,000 nits. Apple has crafted the case from Grade 5 titanium and constructed the hinge from over 100 components. Additionally, the phone carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The device’s software is central to its use of the extra display space. Apple developed iOS 27.1 to support both folded and unfolded modes. Split View enables users to position two apps side by side on the inner display. Users can also run two windows from the same app and save app combinations for later use. The larger screen allows for two Home
Travel
Commercial passenger aircraft taxi along airport runways during peak international travel hours. The seasonal results reflect increased passenger capacity and improved load factors on key long-haul routes linking North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific. International aviation channels report that early bookings for the upcoming holiday period remain high across both premium cabins and economy. Industry analysts note that the consistent passenger flow indicates a resilient structure within the international long-haul aviation sector. To meet anticipated winter passenger numbers, Emirates is accelerating its multi-billion-dollar fleet upgrade and product enhancement initiatives. The airline continues to incorporate newly retrofitted Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft into service, further expanding the availability of its popular Premium Economy cabin on additional long-haul routes. Emirates starts the winter season with strong booking demand as its fleet retrofit efforts boost premium seat options on major intercontinental routes. Fleet Modernization Program Focuses on Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 Cabin Upgrades Beyond cabin improvements, Emirates is increasing its flight frequencies and introducing new international destinations ahead of the winter timetable. The expansion in routes is complemented by growing interline and codeshare collaborations, enabling seamless connections across secondary and regional airports worldwide. Management emphasized that these strategic partnerships help capture feeder traffic from emerging regional markets. The airline’s operational capacity continues to bolster trade, tourism, and business travel centered at Dubai International Airport. Increased frequencies on high-demand routes are designed to accommodate the expected surge in passengers associated with major global conventions, trade fairs, and winter holiday travel across
Officials are now inspecting travel and immigration documents along routes that usually operate without routine internal border checks. This decision follows Italy’s earlier move to reintroduce checks on certain passengers arriving from Spain. Travelers from Italy face temporary passport checks at Spanish airports and seaports. On the first day of enforcement, the Spanish Interior Ministry reported that 199 passengers traveling on 12 flights from Italy were subjected to inspections. These controls took place at airports in Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Bilbao, Alicante, and Valencia. The process involved verification of passports, nationality, and visa status where applicable. Despite these checks, flights and maritime services between Spain and Italy continue to operate normally while the measures are in place. Italy began its own temporary border controls on Aug. 1, in response to a significant influx of migrants into Ceuta from Morocco. The Italian authorities applied these checks to non-EU nationals arriving from Spain by air or sea, excluding Italian citizens, Spanish citizens, and other EU nationals from the restrictions. Italy informed European agencies that its controls would last until Sept. 1 under the current schedule. Ceuta arrivals predated border restrictions Approximately 72,000 migrants entered Ceuta during the large wave from Morocco that started in late July. Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska stated on Aug. 4 that about 70,000 individuals had since departed the territory. Ceuta, located on the North African coast, lies outside the Schengen Area. This surge in arrivals
Dubai-based airline flydubai announced a significant expansion of its European route network on Wednesday, boosting flight frequencies to major Italian destinations to cater to increasing international travel. Official statements issued by Emirates News Agency confirmed that flydubai is expanding operations in Italy with more flights to Milan-Bergamo and Naples, strengthening direct connections between the United Arab Emirates and Southern Europe. Starting July 31, 2026, the airline will operate double-daily flights between Dubai International Airport and Milan-Bergamo Airport. Additionally, service to Naples International Airport has been increased to a daily schedule, reinforcing flydubai’s presence in Italy’s key urban centers.
The new digital payment system is accessible to residents of the United Arab Emirates for both international and domestic flight bookings, with prices and settlements in Emirati Dirhams. Transactions are handled through Crypto.com’s checkout portal, giving travelers direct access to their digital wallets during the booking process. The rollout aligns with regional economic initiatives, notably supporting Dubai’s Cashless Strategy under the broader D33 Economic Agenda aiming for 90% of financial transactions to be digital by the end of 2026. Industry analysts note that integrating digital wallet payment options helps international airlines attract tech-savvy customers while reducing reliance on traditional card processing.