Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and the capital of the Emirate of Dubai. It is on a creek on the southeastern coast of the Persian Gulf. As of 2025, its population stands at 4 million, 92% of whom are expatriates. The wider urban area includes Sharjah and has a population of 5 million people as of 2023, while the Dubai–Sharjah–Ajman metropolitan area has a population of 6 million people.
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Etihad Airways and Emirates have reported flight disruptions caused by a severe winter storm "Nor'easter" impacting parts of North America, resulting in interruptions to the airline's operations.Etihad Airways announced in a press release that the following flights have been cancelled: EY1 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to New York (JFK) on February 23, EY2 from New York (JFK) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) on February 23, EY7 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Boston (BOS) on February 23, and EY8 from Boston (BOS) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) on February 23.In addition, flight EY4 from New York (JFK) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) on February 22 will depart earlier than scheduled, now set for 18:00 local time. Meanwhile, flight EY3 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to New York (JFK) on February 23 is delayed by about five hours and is now planned to depart at 14:40 local time.The airline announced that weather conditions continue to be unpredictable, which may lead to additional delays or cancellations if necessary.The Etihad Airways team is currently working to assist affected passengers by rebooking them on alternative flights once normal operations resume or providing a full refund upon request.Passengers are advised to update their contact details through https://digital.etihad.com/selfservice/en to receive timely updates via SMS or email.Emirates Airlines has announced changes to several flights to and from New York, including cancellations and rescheduling, due to the anticipated effects of a nor’easter.The snowstorm is forecast to impact the East Coast of the United States beginning this Sunday, potentially leading to significant airport closures and travel disruptions.The airline has cancelled four scheduled flights as part of precautionary measures in response to anticipated weather conditions.The affected flights include EK203 on February 22 from Dubai to New York (JFK), EK204 on February 23 from New York (JFK) to Dubai, EK209 on February 22 from Athens to Newark (EWR), and EK210 on February 23 from Newark (EWR) to Athens.Emirates Airlines has introduced adjustments to the timings of several flights. On February 22, flight EK202 is scheduled to depart from New York at 18:00 and reach Dubai at 15:25 on February 23. Meanwhile, flight EK201 will leave Dubai at 14:30 on February 23, arriving in New York at 19:55 that same day.The adjustments also affected flight EK206, scheduled to leave New York at 8:00 pm on February 22 and reach Milan at 9:35 am on February 23. Similarly, flight EK205 will depart Milan at 6:40 pm on February 23, arriving in New York at 9:55 pm that same day.
The UAE has continued dispatching humanitarian aid convoys to the Gaza Strip under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, as part of its ongoing relief efforts to support the Palestinian people and alleviate their suffering amid the challenging humanitarian conditions.Aid convoys entered this week loaded with diverse relief items, led by food parcels distributed in conjunction with the Holy Month of Ramadan. Winter clothing and heating supplies were also delivered to assist affected families in addressing essential needs and enduring low temperatures.Alongside the humanitarian support, a medical convoy transporting over 30 tonnes of medicines and supplies arrived in the Strip. The aid is allocated to cover the requirements of medical laboratories and surgeries at the UAE field hospital in Rafah and the Emirates Medical Centre in Khan Younis, as part of the UAE’s integrated healthcare framework aimed at strengthening response capacity in the most affected areas.The UAE medical support team in Al Arish continues its operations round the clock, overseeing the preparation and organisation of medical shipments in line with on-the-ground needs. Detailed sorting and packing measures are implemented to facilitate swift dispatch, direct allocation of supplies and optimal efficiency in the delivery of aid.Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 affirmed that the continued entry of convoys during Ramadan reflects the UAE’s established approach to humanitarian giving and relief work, as well as its commitment to delivering humanitarian and medical support on a regular basis, helping to address urgent needs and enhance healthcare services across the Strip.WAM
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Etihad Airways and Emirates have reported flight disruptions caused by a severe winter storm "Nor'easter" impacting parts of North America, resulting in interruptions to the airline's operations.Etihad Airways announced in a press release that the following flights have been cancelled: EY1 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to New York (JFK) on February 23, EY2 from New York (JFK) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) on February 23, EY7 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Boston (BOS) on February 23, and EY8 from Boston (BOS) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) on February 23.In addition, flight EY4 from New York (JFK) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) on February 22 will depart earlier than scheduled, now set for 18:00 local time. Meanwhile, flight EY3 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to New York (JFK) on February 23 is delayed by about five hours and is now planned to depart at 14:40 local time.The airline announced that weather conditions continue to be unpredictable, which may lead to additional delays or cancellations if necessary.The Etihad Airways team is currently working to assist affected passengers by rebooking them on alternative flights once normal operations resume or providing a full refund upon request.Passengers are advised to update their contact details through https://digital.etihad.com/selfservice/en to receive timely updates via SMS or email.Emirates Airlines has announced changes to several flights to and from New York, including cancellations and rescheduling, due to the anticipated effects of a nor’easter.The snowstorm is forecast to impact the East Coast of the United States beginning this Sunday, potentially leading to significant airport closures and travel disruptions.The airline has cancelled four scheduled flights as part of precautionary measures in response to anticipated weather conditions.The affected flights include EK203 on February 22 from Dubai to New York (JFK), EK204 on February 23 from New York (JFK) to Dubai, EK209 on February 22 from Athens to Newark (EWR), and EK210 on February 23 from Newark (EWR) to Athens.Emirates Airlines has introduced adjustments to the timings of several flights. On February 22, flight EK202 is scheduled to depart from New York at 18:00 and reach Dubai at 15:25 on February 23. Meanwhile, flight EK201 will leave Dubai at 14:30 on February 23, arriving in New York at 19:55 that same day.The adjustments also affected flight EK206, scheduled to leave New York at 8:00 pm on February 22 and reach Milan at 9:35 am on February 23. Similarly, flight EK205 will depart Milan at 6:40 pm on February 23, arriving in New York at 9:55 pm that same day.
The UAE has continued dispatching humanitarian aid convoys to the Gaza Strip under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, as part of its ongoing relief efforts to support the Palestinian people and alleviate their suffering amid the challenging humanitarian conditions.Aid convoys entered this week loaded with diverse relief items, led by food parcels distributed in conjunction with the Holy Month of Ramadan. Winter clothing and heating supplies were also delivered to assist affected families in addressing essential needs and enduring low temperatures.Alongside the humanitarian support, a medical convoy transporting over 30 tonnes of medicines and supplies arrived in the Strip. The aid is allocated to cover the requirements of medical laboratories and surgeries at the UAE field hospital in Rafah and the Emirates Medical Centre in Khan Younis, as part of the UAE’s integrated healthcare framework aimed at strengthening response capacity in the most affected areas.The UAE medical support team in Al Arish continues its operations round the clock, overseeing the preparation and organisation of medical shipments in line with on-the-ground needs. Detailed sorting and packing measures are implemented to facilitate swift dispatch, direct allocation of supplies and optimal efficiency in the delivery of aid.Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 affirmed that the continued entry of convoys during Ramadan reflects the UAE’s established approach to humanitarian giving and relief work, as well as its commitment to delivering humanitarian and medical support on a regular basis, helping to address urgent needs and enhance healthcare services across the Strip.WAM
Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of the Museum of the Future, affirmed that Dubai and the United Arab Emirates have made designing the future a shared global goal, uniting the world to create a better tomorrow by leveraging present and future opportunities, serving communities and ensuring the best for future generations.His remarks came on the occasion of the fourth anniversary of the Museum of the Future’s opening, as it approaches the milestone of five million visitors since its opening on the 22nd February 2022. The figure reflects the Museum’s expanding global presence and growing demand for its programmes and unique experiences. It also reinforces its status as a leading destination attracting visitors from diverse cultures and nationalities as well as a platform where great minds exchange expertise and transform forward-looking ideas into reality.“The Museum of the Future, which embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, by bringing together leading minds from around the world to ask the right questions and develop practical solutions for the challenges of tomorrow. Since its launch four years ago, the Museum has evolved into a thriving knowledge-based ecosystem that turns ideas into programmes, dialogues and experiences that inspire, equip and serve as a laboratory for practical solutions to tomorrow’s challenges,” said Al Gergawi.“The Museum of the Future bridges thought and experience, dialogue and application. It has become a global space that empowers people to understand rapid transformations and prepare for them. It reflects the UAE’s message that the future is not something to wait for, but something to design and build today through innovation and creative collaboration,” he added.Over the past four years, the Museum of the Future has recorded a distinguished track record of achievements and milestones. It has hosted 620 events, conferences and talks addressing key themes including artificial intelligence, sustainable cities and the future of education, health, the economy, work, technology and the arts. It has also organised 224 educational programmes, specialised workshops and interactive learning experiences targeting a diverse range of age groups and professional sectors.In 2025 alone, the Museum welcomed nine Heads of State and 46 Ministers for official visits, alongside diplomatic and governmental delegations from around the world, further consolidating its position as a destination for high-level engagement.As it enters its fifth year, the Museum of the Future affirms that this milestone marks not the conclusion of a phase but the beginning of a broader journey, building on its achievements to expand the global impact of its platforms and programmes.The Museum of the Future continues to serve as a centre for global dialogue and collaborative action through flagship initiatives that have strengthened its international presence. These include hosting the Dubai Future Forum, widely recognised as the world’s largest gathering of futurists as well as the Future Talks series, which features leading thinkers, decision-makers and international experts to discuss major scientific, humanitarian and technological transformations.The Museum also serves as a hub for initiatives that support and empower Arab minds, most notably the ‘Great Arab Minds’ initiative, aligned with its mission to revive the Arab region’s contribution to shaping humanity’s future and strengthening its presence in the global community. The Museum has honoured 18 distinguished Arab scholars and influential figures through the initiative across its three editions.During the year, the Museum also hosted a special session with global superstar Sarah Jessica Parker as part of the Future Talks series, exploring the future of sustainable jewellery and reflecting its ability to convene influential international figures across diverse sectors.The museum’s programmess have seen wide participation from different segments of society, including students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. It launched numerous specialised learning programmes and initiatives focusing on strengthening foresight skills.The museum maintains its impact through strategic partnerships with research institutions, academic organisations and global companies.During the World Governments Summit 2026, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation, directed that the Museum of the Future become the permanent home of the ‘World Preservation Lab and BioVault’.The Lab transitions from a temporary exhibition at the Summit soon to a permanent installation at the Museum, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to supporting scientific innovation and leveraging biotechnology to protect the environment and preserve wildlife.Established in collaboration with Colossal Biosciences, a global leader in biotechnology and species preservation, the Lab will introduce scientists, academics and biotechnology researchers to the latest innovations in protecting endangered species and enhancing ecosystem sustainability.WAM
The Ministry of Finance (MoF), in its capacity as issuer and in collaboration with the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) as issuing and payment agent, announced the launch of the first-ever 7-year tranche of UAE dirham-denominated Islamic Treasury Sukuk (T-Sukuk) valued at Dhs550 million. This represents the longest tenor issued under the programme to date, reflecting the strategic direction to extend and deepen the UAE dirham yield curve.The new tranche attracted strong demand amounting to approximately Dhs3.1 billion, nearly six times the issuance size, showing investors’ confidence in the resilience of the national economy and the strength of the Islamic finance sector.This came as part of the MoF’s announcement of the successful completion of the February auction of UAE dirham-denominated Islamic Treasury Sukuk, with a total issuance of Dhs1.1 billion. The issuance forms part of the Islamic Treasury Sukuk Programme for 2026, as published on the Ministry’s official website.The auction witnessed strong participation from the eight primary dealers across both tranches maturing in May 2030 and February 2033. Total bids reached Dhs5.88 billion, representing an oversubscription ratio of 5.3 times, with the 7-year tranche oversubscribed circa 6 times. This robust demand reflects investors’ confidence in the UAE’s creditworthiness and Islamic finance framework.The auction results achieved competitive, market-driven pricing with a YTM of 3.53 percent for the May 2030 tranche and 3.779 percent for the February 2033 tranche priced below par to comparable US Treasuries at the time of issuance. In addition, these Sukuk are listed under the UAE Treasury Islamic Sukuk Programme with Nasdaq Dubai, enhancing investor access in the secondary market.The Islamic T-Sukuk programme plays a vital role in supporting the development of the UAE’s dirham-denominated yield curve, offering secure investment instruments for a wide range of investors.WAM
Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida — a venue that has welcomed presidents, royal families, and the world’s most distinguished dignitaries — once again becomes the center of international attention. On February 20, 2026, the internationally acclaimed Concerto for Peace, headlined by piano virtuoso Omar Harfouch, unfolds in this legendary setting.The concert gathers 100 carefully selected VIP powerhouse guests — billionaires, industry titans, financial leaders, entertainment moguls, and global influencers — transforming the evening into a historic convergence of diplomacy, culture, and high society. Among the distinguished attendees is Caitlyn Jenner, globally known from Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Internationally celebrated artist Romero Britto honored Maestro Omar Harfouch by creating an exclusive commemorative pin — a heart superimposed over the American flag — symbolizing unity and peace. The evening is further elevated by the presence of Valid Arfush, former Vice President of Euronews, alongside a remarkable and distinguished representation from the Miss Universe world: Sahar Biniaz (Miss Universe Persia), Michaela Tomanová (Miss Universe Czech Republic),and Nawat Itsaragrisil, President of Miss Universe, who traveled especially from Bangkok, seated beside the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand. The celebration also marks the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump’s global mission for peace, placing the musical spectacle within a broader narrative of diplomacy and international dialogue. The Concerto for Peace was masterfully presented by Katie Zacharia, Spokesperson and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the U.S. Government, whose distinguished introduction added gravitas and elegance to the evening. In every respect, influence, culture, and artistic excellence converged at Mar-a-Lago for a breathtaking showcase of musical diplomacy — a powerful and unforgettable experience that only Omar Harfouch could bring to life.
Elvis died in 1977, but he never went away. Over the years, countless attempts have been made to resurrect the King, whether it was movies, TV specials or musical ventures celebrating his artistry and legacy, attempting to bring him back and keep him among us.No single project has done a better job of making Elvis feel present and alive than “EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert,” director Baz Luhrmann’s dazzling documentary-slash-concert film, which lets us see and feel Elvis on stage, in his element. It’s a pure joy to see, to feel, to behold, as Elvis tells his story, in his own words, and hits the stage to let us bask in his greatness. The movie, meanwhile, helps to reclaim Elvis as a singular force of nature, an otherworldly dynamo, not the parody of himself with which we’ve come to associate his Vegas years.Luhrmann — who also directed 2022’s “Elvis,” his hyperactive Elvis biopic — culls “EPiC” from footage he unearthed during the making of the film. That included long-buried footage recovered from the Elvis estate, which was then painstakingly restored to its original grandeur. Through that footage, Luhrmann manages to tell Elvis’ story more directly and succinctly than he did in “Elvis.” Of course that movie, which starred Austin Butler as Presley, would have been disingenuous had it only focused on the highs and not told his full story. But with that business out of the way, “EPiC” is allowed to fix strictly on celebrating Elvis, without getting into the lows of his story.“EPiC” is just the good stuff. And the good stuff is great, phenomenal even. After breezing through his early years in his signature style of excess — quick cuts, flashy edits — Luhrmann gets to Las Vegas in 1969, where Elvis is taking the stage at the International Hotel, footage seen in 1970’s “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is.”These scenes are intercut with footage from 1972’s “Elvis on Tour” as well as backstage moments, rehearsal footage, home movies and various other found sources. We not only see Elvis performing, but we hear him talk about performing and the joy he gets from being on stage in front of audiences. (He also laments his movie career and the sameness of the productions, which Luhrmann presents in supercut form.)There are some telling edits along the way: As Elvis performs “(You’re the) Devil in Disguise,” footage focuses on his controlling manager, Colonel Tom Parker, and “Always On My Mind” is interlaced with scenes of a young Lisa Marie, crawling on the floor at Graceland.The performance scenes are electrifying, Elvis pouring in sweat and leading his band through renditions of “Burning Love” and “Suspicious Minds” and daring them to keep up with him. In his white jumpsuit, he’s all hip thrusts, waving arms and karate kicks, and his bandmates and backup singers all seem in awe of him, while also staying sharp and on their toes because they’re never sure what he’s going to do next.Elvis hops into the crowd and is mobbed by female fans, many of whom he plants with big kisses on the mouth, something today’s stars would not dare do, and for good reason. There’s a transportive nature to the footage, which is presented in bright, bold, daring color and soundtracked with booming audio. (“EPiC” is worth seeing on the biggest, best screen possible, and is getting a one-week IMAX-exclusive run before opening wider on Feb. 27.)Elvis talks at length about his sound as an amalgam of country music, gospel and R&B, and there’s newly restored footage of him singing the gospel standard “Oh Happy Day.” He also makes his way through the Beatles’ “Get Back,” Simon & Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and the Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” spinning those classics through his own buttery, southern-fried vocal tone, still in prime form here.“EPiC” is a work of deep reverence and affection; Luhrmann wants audiences to feel what he feels from Elvis, and it comes bursting through the screen. This is Elvis the performer, the legend, and it’s a beautiful portrait of a towering figure. “People can stay home and hear you sing,” Elvis says early in the film, explaining how if fans come out to see you, “they want a show.” The thrilling “EPiC” puts on a show viewers won’t soon forget.Tribune News Service
This Ramadan, and in line with the UAE’s Year of Family, Global Village celebrates its milestone Season 30 with a special family offer, inviting families to come together to ‘A More Wonderful World’ this Holy Month. Families can enjoy four entry tickets for the price of AED 30 only, with additional tickets available as an […]
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Dubai Retail Welcomes Ramadan with Citywide Programme of Dining, Community and Reflection Dubai Retail, one of the region’s largest groups of malls and retail destinations, marks the Holy Month of Ramadan with a citywide programme centred on togetherness, reflection and community. Across the city, residents and visitors are invited to gather over curated Iftar and […]
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