Author: Editorial Team
ISLAMABAD — Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar told his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Sunday that continued dialogue is essential as a US delegation prepares to arrive in Islamabad. During a phone call, Dar stressed the need for continued dialogue and engagement to resolve current issues as soon as possible and promote peace and stability in the region and beyond, according to a statement from his office. The two ministers agreed to remain in contact, the statement said. It added that a phone call between the Iranian president and the Pakistani prime minister is likely later Sunday. Earlier, multiple Pakistani…
TEHRAN — Iran on Sunday forced two oil tankers to turn back while attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, saying the move was in response to the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency said the vessels, sailing under the flags of Botswana and Angola, were ordered to change course after what it described as an unauthorized transit attempt through the strategic waterway. On Saturday, Iran announced tighter control over the Strait of Hormuz and warned shipping operators that the key energy corridor had effectively been closed again. The conflict has remained on hold…
The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has completed the annual raising of the lower section of the Kiswa (Kaaba’s covering) by three meters, as part of a comprehensive preparations to receive pilgrims for the Hajj season of 1447 AH. The operation was executed by a specialized team of 34 skilled craftsmen who completed the task in two hours. Following organized and precise protocols, the team raised the silk covering and secured a two-meter-wide white cotton cloth around all four sides of the Kaaba. This procedure is a standard maintenance practice aimed…
KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday called for reducing Russia oil exports, saying any easing of sanctions against Moscow helps finance the war. In a post on X, Zelenskyy said continued sanctions relief fuels what he described as the Russian leadership’s illusion that it can continue the conflict. He said more than 110 tankers from Russia’s so-called shadow fleet are currently at sea. According to Zelenskyy, the vessels are carrying more than 12 million tons of Russian oil that can again be sold because of weaker sanctions enforcement. He said the cargo is worth around $10 billion and…
RIYADH — The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced the implementation of two decisions to raise Saudization rates in marketing and sales professions, effective from Sunday, April 19 following the expiry of the grace period granted to private sector establishments. This is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to provide more motivating job opportunities for Saudi men and women across various regions of Saudi Arabia. The decisions stipulate raising the Saudization rate in at least 20 marketing and sales professions in the private sector to 60 percent. This will be applicable to establishments with three or more employees…
The coasts of the Farasan Islands in Jazan Region have witnessed frequent dolphin sightings, a captivating natural spectacle that highlights the Red Sea’s rich biodiversity, where these marine mammals are often seen in social groups leaping through the waves, particularly during the early morning and at sunset, offering boaters and nature enthusiasts an exceptional experience in a pristine habitat. The islands’ clear waters, diverse coral reefs, and abundant food resources provide an ideal ecosystem for dolphin survival and reproduction. As part of a protected nature reserve, the Farasan Islands support a balanced environment that sustains diverse marine life and migratory birds,…
KUALA LUMPUR — Authorities launched a rescue and relief operation after a major fire swept through a floating village in Malaysia early Sunday, destroying hundreds of homes, local media reported. At least 200 houses were burned in Kampung Bahagia, a floating village in the coastal city of Sandakan, according to the Malay Mail. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he was shocked after learning of the fire. He said the federal government and the Sabah state government are coordinating emergency aid and temporary accommodation for those affected. Sandakan Fire and Rescue Station Chief Jimmy Lagung said dozens of firefighters were dispatched…
Dubai’s hospitality scene has entered its “workation” era and we’re so here for it. Who doesn’t want an “office” that comes with pool access, spa discounts and a skyline or sea view? Recently, hotels across the UAE have started actively promoting irresistible offers for remote workers and hybrid employees with packages that blur the lines between work and holiday. So, here are some of the best work-from-hotel offers to check out right now: Fairmont The Palm For those who can’t quite switch off but are done with working from the dining table, the Fairmont Workation offers a considered middle ground.…
Jeddah’s stadiums, hosting the knockout stages of the 2026 AFC Champions League Elite from April 13 to 25, have deployed advanced smart systems and artificial intelligence at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium to streamline the fan experience through digital recognition and sophisticated crowd-management solutions that ensure seamless entry, exit, and navigation for thousands of international spectators. A key highlight of the tournament’s technological infrastructure is the Ahlan application, a unified digital platform that integrates ticketing, match schedules, transportation, and stadium access. This transition toward smart stadiums is complemented by interactive entertainment zones organized by the…
Dubai-based art and culture studio Malhaar has released a moving new video that captures young Indian children performing the UAE National Anthem on traditional Indian instruments. In the video, a group of young expat students — who call the UAE their home away from home — come together in a simple, intimate setting to perform a powerful instrumental rendition of the national anthem as an ensemble. Their performance is rooted in Indian classical training, but the music they offer is a heartfelt salute to the country that has given their families opportunity, safety and a sense of belonging. A tribute…