4 hours ago
The oil price is lower following President Trump’s comments on oil President Donald Trump has said he will ask Saudi Arabia and other Opec nations to “bring down the cost of oil” and doubled-down on his threat to use tariffs. In a speech to executives at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, the US president said he was ‘surprised’ that Opec hadn’t brought down the price of oil before the elections. “Right now the price is high enough that that war will continue,” he said, referring to the Russia-Ukraine war and suggesting that the higher oil price was helping to sustain funding for the conflict in Moscow. “You gotta bring down the oil price, that will end that war. You could end that war,” he added The president’s comments on the oil price came after he spoke to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Wednesday. According to Saudi state media Bin Salman pledged to invest as much as $600bn in the US over the next four years. However, this figure was not mentioned in the White House statement after the call. Despite the cordial exchange, Trump said he would be asking “the Crown Prince, who’s a fantastic guy, […]
4 hours ago
The JEC Tower in Saudi Arabia will become the first building in the world to reach a height of 1 km (0.62 miles) New details have been revealed on what is arguably Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious current architecture project: the world’s new tallest skyscraper, which will rise to an incredible height of over 1 km (0.62 miles) in the Red Sea port city Jeddah. First unveiled as the Kingdom Tower, the project went through a few names before settling on the Jeddah Economic Company Tower (or JEC Tower). It’s designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill, the former being most famous for designing the current world’s tallest building, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, which reaches 828 m (2,716 ft). Saudi Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud, who leads the project, has confirmed that the gigantic tower will reach a height of over 1 km (0.62 miles). However, he has also now said that its final height has not actually been decided and that it might even go taller. At a minimum then, this will put it at over twice the height of the Empire State Building, and almost twice the height of the USA’s tallest skyscraper, the One World Trade Center. Work on this unprecedented […]
4 hours ago
Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, has suggested that Bitcoin could reach $700,000 per coin, citing its growing role as a hedge against economic instability. His projection, sparked by a discussion with a sovereign wealth fund, highlights the increasing momentum of institutional adoption and its potential to reshape market dynamics. Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, recently speculated that Bitcoin could potentially reach valuations as high as $700,000 per BTC. This projection arises against the backdrop of intensifying concerns about currency debasement and global economic instability, positioning Bitcoin as a hedge against vulnerabilities in traditional financial systems. Fink’s remark was not an outright endorsement but rather a reflection on a recent meeting he had with a sovereign wealth fund. The fund sought advice on whether to allocate 2% or 5% of its investment portfolio to Bitcoin. According to Fink, if institutional adoption continues to grow and similar allocation strategies are embraced broadly, market dynamics could drive Bitcoin to such remarkable heights. Fink made this striking statement during a recent interview, explaining that Bitcoin’s potential for exponential growth is closely tied to fears of economic downturns and fiat currency devaluation. Fink described Bitcoin as an “international instrument” capable of mitigating localized economic fears. […]
5 hours ago
A seemingly minor parking dispute outside a private residence escalated into a violent assault,resulting in the sentencing of five men to one month in prison, according to the victims’ lawyer,Abdulatheem Abbas Hubail. The five defendants were found guilty of assault following a confrontation with two victims neartheir home. Hubail reported that the court handed down a one-month prison sentence for eachdefendant, although this sentence was suspended pending the payment of a 100 Bahrainidinar bail for each individual. Court records indicate that the altercation began when the first defendant allegedly punchedthe first victim in the face, initiating the assault. The victim sustained injuries including a bruise,a laceration to the lower lip, and pain in the middle finger of his right hand. The other four defendants then joined in the attack against the second victim. The fourthdefendant punched the victim in the back, while the fifth defendant grabbed and pulled him.The second and third defendants also participated in the assault. As a result, the second victim suffered injuries including a scratch on his left cheek, swellingand bruising near his right eye, abrasions on his left arm, and contusions to the back of hishead. The severity of the injuries required medical attention, though […]
5 hours ago
The Emirates A350 launch follows operations to Edinburgh, Kuwait, and Bahrain Emirates will introduce its Airbus A350 aircraft to India on January 26, expanding services to Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The airline will operate daily flights on two routes: Mumbai route: Ahmedabad route: Dubai’s Emirates launches new A350 services to Mumbai and Ahmedabad “The roll out of Emirates’ A350 aircraft to India, featuring the airline’s latest interiors, industry-first technologies and innovations, reinforces Emirates’ commitment to customers in India and beyond, and offers exceptional levels of comforts onboard,” the airline said in a statement on Wednesday. The A350 launch follows operations to Edinburgh, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Emirates currently serves nine points in India with 167 weekly flights, including daily A380 services to Mumbai and Bangalore. The aircraft offers four cabin classes, including Premium Economy.
5 hours ago
On January 12, RTA opened a new bridge that offers direct access to visitors to Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates The new bridge access is part of a broader strategic partnership between the Mall of the Emirates and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Mall of the Emirates, operated by Majid Al Futtaim, has announced a series of infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving accessibility and reducing travel times for visitors. Among the key developments is a new bridge access from Umm Suqeim Bridge, which opened on January 12. “Our partnership with the RTA marks a significant step forward in enhancing accessibility to Mall of the Emirates. This milestone reduces customers’ travel time from 15 minutes to 8 minutes, improving the convenience of our visitors,” Khalifa Bin Braik, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Asset Management Business Unit told Arabian Business. Road upgrades around Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates set for completion this year Drivers coming from Umm Suqeim Bridge can now access the mall’s car park directly, avoiding the U-turn near the Dubai Police Academy. This improvement is expected to ease congestion and streamline the visitor experience. The new bridge access is part of a broader strategic partnership between the Mall […]
5 hours ago
After initial concerns about potential listeria monocytogenes contamination, MOCCAE collaborated with UAE regulatory authorities to take precautionary steps The withdrawal was initially triggered on January 11 following a notification from the Gulf Rapid Alert System for Food (GRASF) The UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has declared a beef pepperoni product previously removed from local markets as safe for consumption on Thursday. The ministry announced that following thorough investigations and inspections, the facility responsible has implemented all required preventive measures to ensure product safety. After initial concerns about potential listeria monocytogenes contamination, MOCCAE collaborated with local regulatory authorities to take precautionary steps. #MOCCAEUAE confirmed that, in collaboration with local regulatory authorities, all necessary precautionary measures have been taken to ensure consumer safety over potential contamination of pepperoni beef with listeria monocytogenes bacteria. Investigations and inspections… pic.twitter.com/YGxhFbVZnW — وزارة التغير المناخي والبيئة (@MoCCaEUAE) January 22, 2025 MOCCAE confirms food safety of withdrawn beef pepperoni product The withdrawal was initially triggered on January 11 following a notification from the Gulf Rapid Alert System for Food (GRASF). “Investigations and inspections revealed that the involved facility has implemented all required preventive measures to ensure the safety and compliance of food products,” the ministry stated […]
6 hours ago
Qatar Airways to launch new flights from Doha to Colombia and Venezuela this summer Qatar Airways has announced its latest expansion into the Americas with the launch of flights to Colombia and Venezuela, The two new weekly flights will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays, starting early summer 2025. These flights will connect Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha to Bogotá El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Colombia, and then continue to Caracas Simon Bolivar International Airport (CCS) in Venezuela. Qatar Airways Colombia and Venezuela flights The return flight from Caracas will operate non-stop to Doha. This new service makes Qatar Airways the first and only airline to offer non-stop flights from the Middle East to Colombia and the only Middle Eastern carrier operating in Venezuela. With the addition of Bogotá and Caracas, Qatar Airways expands its Americas network to a total of 16 destinations, joining major cities like: Operated by Boeing 777-200LR aircraft equipped with 42 Business Class seats and 234 Economy Class seats, the new Bogotá and Caracas services will provide travellers from two of South America’s busiest cities with convenient access to the Middle East and beyond, owing to the airline’s strong global network reaching over 170 destinations. Qatar Airways Group […]
6 hours ago
Saudi Arabia will invest more than $600bn in the United States, the Crown Prince told Donald Trump in a phone call Saudi Arabia will invest more than $600bn in the United States in the next four years. Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, held a phone call evening with President Donald J. Trump of the United States of America. During the call, the Crown Prince conveyed the congratulations of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and his own congratulations to the President on the occasion of his inauguration as President of the United States. Saudi plans US investments He also wished the friendly American people more progress and prosperity under the President’s leadership. The two leaders discussed ways for cooperation between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America to promote peace, security and stability in the Middle East, in addition to enhancing bilateral cooperation to combat terrorism. The leaders also discussed ways to enhance bilateral ties in various areas, and the Crown Prince noted the US administration’s ability to create unprecedented economic prosperity and opportunity through anticipated reforms in the United States. He added that the Kingdom seeks to participate […]
6 hours ago
Etihad Rail unveils Abu Dhabi to Dubai train network set to contribute $40bn to UAE economy Etihad Rail has announced a new Dubai-Abu Dhabi train line to connect the two cities in just 30 minutes. Etihad Rail will oversee the development and operation of this landmark project, building on its achievements in developing the national railway sector and operating the national rail network with the highest standards of efficiency, quality and reliability. The high-speed train will enable individuals to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 350 kmph. Etihad Rail Dubai-Abu Dhabi train network The route will pass through key strategic destinations and tourist attractions, ensuring seamless travel for passengers and visitors. The project will significantly contribute to the UAE’s socioeconomic and tourism development, strengthening its position among advanced nations through fast, efficient and sustainable rail transport, boosting tourism and elevating economic growth. The high-speed train is expected to contribute AED145bn ($39.5bn) to the UAE’s GDP over the next five decades. With the blessing of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi […]
7 hours ago
The National Center of Meteorology urged the people in Saudi Arabia to adhere to the instructions and guidelines issued by the relevant authorities with regard to the weather conditions. The National Center of Meteorology (NMC) said that most regions of Saudi Arabia will receive rain of varying intensity, starting from Thursday until Monday. According to the NMC forecast, rain will be accompanied by descending winds that raise dust and dirt, with speeds ranging from 50 to 60 km/h. There is also a possibility of torrents, hail, and high waves on the coasts, in addition to tornadoes or waterspouts. The weather condition includes moderate to heavy rain in the regions of Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders, starting from Thursday until Monday, and in the regions of the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Qassim, and Hail on Sunday and Monday. The center expected that the governorates of Al-Mahd and Al-Hanakiyah in the Madinah region will witness light to moderate rain from Thursday until Saturday, while the governorates of Jeddah and Khulais will witness light rain from Saturday evening until Sunday morning. The same weather condition will experience in the Najran region from Thursday until Monday, and in the Tabuk region […]
7 hours ago
Solar-powered lights were installed along the sandy beach for eco-friendly illumination, and sign boards were also placed to guide beachgoers. Jeddah Mayoralty inaugurated the first sandy beach in North Obhur, spreading over an area of 17,640 square meters. This initiative is part of the mayoralty’s efforts to revitalize waterfronts and establish model public sandy beaches. The Undersecretary of Marine Monitoring Capt. Thamer Nahhas said that since its opening, the beach has witnessed a large number of visitors and tourists. He underscored the mayoralty’s dedication to provide free, secure, and well-equipped spaces for the public to relish swimming and various water activities. “The beach is equipped with lifeguards accredited by the Saudi Life Saving Federation, ensuring prompt responses to any emergencies,” he said. Nahhas said that the work of preparing and developing these beaches included installing marine surveillance towers to improve safety and emergency rescue efforts. “Solar-powered lights were installed for eco-friendly illumination and sign boards were also placed to guide beachgoers on rules and permitted swimming hours,” he said. The mayoralty is working on two more beaches in North Obhur, one covering an area of 10,320 square meters while the other spreading over an area of 75,000 square meters.
8 hours ago
The British School of Bahrain celebrates 30 years of nurturing young minds and driving educational innovation. Marking its 30th anniversary, The British School of Bahrain (BSB) has long been recognised for delivering quality education in a state-of-the-art, purpose-built campus. Across its Infant, Junior, and Senior Schools, BSB nurtures young individuals by fostering Academic Excellence and values while developing their sporting and artistic talents. A commitment to holistic education and community engagement has solidified BSB’s place as one of Bahrain’s leading educational institutions. As part of the Inspired Education Group—a global network of over 118 premium schools educating more than 95,000 students—BSB’s approach to student enrichment combines international best practices with a celebration of individuality. This focus has earned the school a spot among the Top 150 Private Schools worldwide and the Top 15 in the Middle East, according to the Carfax Global School Index. In 2024, BSB was rated “Outstanding in All Areas” by both the British Schools Overseas (BSO) and Bahrain’s Education & Training Quality Authority (BQA). As the school embarks on its third decade of excellence, Head Teacher Liz Stanley reflects on the school’s journey and the milestones that have shaped its reputation. As BSB marks its 30th […]
9 hours ago
In this exclusive interview with Prof. Hatem Masri, President of Applied Science University, we discuss the University’s commitment to academic excellence, industry partnerships, technological advancements, and its vision for shaping future leaders in Bahrain. Could you share a recent success story or achievement by the students or faculty that stands out? Applied Science University (ASU) takes immense pride in the remarkable accomplishments of its students and faculty. Among recent highlights is our students’ outstanding performance in the prestigious CIOB Global Student Challenge, organised by the Chartered Institute of Building. Competing against top universities worldwide, they showcased exceptional leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, underscoring ASU’s commitment to preparing graduatesfor global professional success. Additionally, our faculty’s research continues to gain recognition in high-impact journals, demonstrating ASU’s dedication to academic excellence and societal advancement. This year, Dr Marwan Abdel Dayem earned first prize in the esteemed Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Award, reflecting the quality and impact of our academic endeavours. These achievements collectively emphasise ASU’s steadfast commitment to fostering talent and making meaningful contributionsto local and international communities. What role do partnerships with industries or other academic institutions play in shaping the University’s offerings? Partnerships are integral to ASU’s mission and play a […]
19 hours ago
The Trump administration initiated plans yesterday for the Pentagon to mobilize 1,500 active-duty troops to the US-Mexico border, joining the 2,500 National Guard and Reserve forces already in place. New reports show Trump could soon order the Pentagon to mobilize upwards of 10,000 troops to “seal the borders” and thwart “unlawful mass migration.” The number of 10,000 troops comes from a US Customs and Border Protection briefing document obtained by The Washington Post. Here’s more from WaPo: President Donald Trump is preparing to send around 10,000 troops to the southern border, where they will support Border Patrol agents under new orders to shut off access to asylum, according to a US Customs and Border Protection briefing document obtained by The Washington Post. The order directs border agents to block entry to migrants on the grounds that they have passed through countries where communicable diseases are present, without citing any specific health threat. Acting Defense Secretary Robert Salesses stated in a DoD press release: This is just the beginning. In short order, the Department will develop and execute additional missions in cooperation with DHS, federal agencies, and state partners to address the full range of threats outlined by the President at […]