The National
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TechnologyUAE Revolutionizes Tourist Experience: AI Slashes VAT Refunds to Just One Day
The UAE has introduced a new AI-powered platform that significantly reduces VAT refund processing time for tourists from nine days to just one day, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
TechnologyCritical PHP Vulnerability Prompts Global Websites Offline Amid Urgent Security Update
A critical security update for PHP, a widely used web language, has been announced, potentially causing temporary website outages. Governments and organizations worldwide are advised to update immediately or take systems offline to prevent exploitation of severe vulnerabilities.
TechnologyPHP Security Update Sparks Global Website Outages, Government Services Affected
A critical security update for the PHP programming language, used by millions of websites, has led to temporary outages for government services worldwide as developers race to patch two critical vulnerabilities. Officials urge users to prepare for the update.
MiscellaneousDubai Police Crack Down on Noisy Vehicles, Issuing Thousands of Fines and Impounding Cars
Dubai Police have issued over 7,730 fines and impounded 1,630 vehicles for noisy engines and illegal modifications in the first nine months of the year. The initiative aims to enhance road safety and residents' well-being by cracking down on disruptive vehicle modifications and excessive noise.
TechnologyUAE's E-Government Excellence: Why Culture, Not Just Tech, Drives World-Class Public Services
The UAE's superior e-government services are attributed not just to advanced technology, but to a public administration culture that prioritizes citizen comfort and efficiency, contrasting with the US's more fragmented and trust-focused approach.
SportsVolkanovski Aims for Historic Quick Finish Against Evloev in Abu Dhabi Title Showdown
Alexander Volkanovski is set to defend his UFC featherweight title against Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi. Volkanovski aims for a historic quick finish, while Evloev seeks to seize his long-awaited championship opportunity.
MiscellaneousUK Border Chief Warns of Imminent Mass Fatality in Channel Migrant Crossings
The UK's border security chief warns that a mass casualty event in the English Channel is inevitable due to smugglers using larger boats packed with more migrants. Efforts to curb crossings are increasing risks for asylum seekers.
TechnologyWETEX 2026 Ignites UAE's Energy Future Amidst Soaring Demand
WETEX 2026 in Dubai brought together thousands of energy professionals to address the UAE's surging electricity demand, showcasing innovative solutions in renewables, data centers, and sustainable construction. Key discussions revolved around AI, raw material challenges for cable manufacturing, and the imperative for smart investments in the energy sector.
TechnologyApple Unveils iPhone Duo: A Foldable Future for Productivity After a Seven-Year Wait
Apple has launched its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, featuring a dual-display design and enhanced multitasking capabilities. The device omits Face ID in favor of Touch ID and introduces several design and software adjustments, aiming to blend productivity with entertainment.
MiscellaneousHalo Trust Deminers Among Thousands Trapped by Houthi Siege in Taiz
Around 30 deminers from the Halo Trust are among hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped in the besieged Yemeni city of Taiz due to a Houthi blockade. Humanitarian supplies are dwindling, and the situation for trapped civilians and aid workers is becoming increasingly dire.
SportsNBA Pushes Forward with 2027 European League Launch Amidst EuroLeague's Independent Strategy
The NBA is proceeding with plans for a new European league targeting a 2027 launch, despite failed partnership talks with the EuroLeague. The NBA's venture, backed by FIBA, is described as the largest investment in European basketball history, aiming to create a financially stable and globally appealing ecosystem.
PoliticsGreece Denounces Libya's Eastern Parliament Approval of Maritime Deal with Turkey
Greece has rejected the Libyan eastern parliament's approval of a maritime deal with Turkey, deeming it a violation of international law and an infringement on sovereign rights in the eastern Mediterranean. The EU also expressed regret, while Turkey welcomed the agreement.
MiscellaneousOman's Sultan Haitham Embraces British Style During State Visit to Windsor Castle
Oman's Sultan Haitham showcased a blend of traditional and modern styles during his state visit to the UK, attending a banquet at Windsor Castle in regal attire and meeting with British leaders. The visit highlighted the strong diplomatic and economic ties between Oman and the United Kingdom.
TechnologyWhoop CEO: Abu Dhabi Partnership to Drive Predictive Health Revolution in the Gulf
Whoop is deepening its ties in the Gulf with a new clinical research partnership with Abu Dhabi's Department of Health, backed by a $75 million investment from Mubadala. CEO Will Ahmed sees Abu Dhabi as a key market for shifting healthcare towards a predictive model.
MiscellaneousRussia Frees US Citizen Stephen Hubbard After Diplomatic Talks
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the release of 74-year-old US citizen Stephen Hubbard, who had been held since 2022. The release occurred after US President Donald Trump raised the issue with Mr. Putin, and it was presented as a goodwill gesture during diplomatic talks in St. Petersburg.
MiscellaneousMysterious Foul Odor Plagues Gaza, Residents Suspect Israeli 'Skunk' Liquid
A mysterious and foul-smelling odor, described as similar to sewage, is repeatedly affecting residents across Gaza, causing anxiety and health concerns. Civil defense teams suspect Israeli forces may be responsible, possibly using a substance known as 'The Skunk'.
CultureDubai Fashion Week Ignites with Global Stars and Regional Innovators for Spring/Summer 2027
Dubai Fashion Week returns for its Spring/Summer 2027 edition, featuring international stars like Ludovic de Saint Sernin and Tarun Tahiliani alongside a diverse range of regional talent. The five-day event in Dubai Design District aims to connect global and local fashion industries.
MiscellaneousPresident Sheikh Mohamed Welcomes Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to Abu Dhabi for Working Visit
President Sheikh Mohamed hosted Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Abu Dhabi for a working visit, highlighting the strong and growing bilateral ties between the UAE and Singapore. The visit included discussions on cooperation across various sectors and a tour of the Zayed National Museum.
EconomyDubai's Luxury Property Market Sees 86 High-Value Deals in Q3 Amidst Regional Tensions
Dubai recorded 86 high-value property deals worth over $10 million in the third quarter, a 17% decrease year-on-year, despite ongoing regional geopolitical tensions. Wealthy investors continue to be drawn to the emirate, with Palm Jumeirah being the top location for luxury sales.
EconomyMiddle East Oil Exports Exceed Pre-War Levels Despite Strait of Hormuz Tensions
Non-Iran Middle East oil exports have recovered to pre-war levels, averaging over 24.5 million barrels per day, despite ongoing tensions and attacks on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The US is considering measures to allow sanctioned ships to use the channel, potentially increasing global supply.
TechnologySheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed Explores Tech Partnerships with US Venture Capitalist David Fialkow
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed met with US venture capitalist David Fialkow to discuss technology partnerships and investment trends. The talks highlighted the importance of leveraging expertise for economic growth, with a focus on Abu Dhabi's strategy in advanced technologies.
PoliticsKing Charles III Hails Oman's Crucial Role in Securing Strait of Hormuz During Sultan's State Visit
King Charles III lauded Oman's efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open during Sultan Haitham's state visit to the UK. The visit also focused on strengthening security, defence, and trade ties, with significant investment opportunities discussed.
EconomyMacron Concludes Gulf Tour in Qatar, Bolstering Energy Security Amidst Domestic Unrest
French President Emmanuel Macron concluded his Gulf tour in Qatar, focusing on energy security and strengthening ties with regional partners. The visit occurred amidst domestic protests in France over the rising cost of living and high fuel prices.
MiscellaneousAustralian MP Helen Haines Undergoes Double Leg Amputation After Horrific Car Ramming Incident
Australian MP Helen Haines has had both legs amputated after being critically injured in a car ramming incident outside her office in Victoria. Police have charged Brendan Nugent in connection with the attack, which is being investigated as deliberate but isolated.