The population declined to 122.86 million, exacerbating labor shortages and economic challenges. Marriages increased slightly, while divorces decreased. | World News
Month: February 2026
Stocks mostly rise as markets digest Nvidia earnings
Stock markets mostly extended gains on Thursday as investors digested company earnings, including forecast-beating results from chip titan Nvidia.
Snake-like robot unveiled for Fukushima debris removal
A 22-metre robot arm will help remove a third sample of radioactive debris from inside Japan’s stricken Fukushima nuclear plant, its operator said Thursday, as it unveiled the snake-like device.
Father of U.S.-based activist sentenced in Hong Kong under national security law
A court on Thursday used Hong Kong’s national security law to jail Kwok Yin-sang for eight months, in the first case against a family member of an activist living abroad, and wanted by authorities.
Jimmy Lai fraud conviction overturned
A Hong Kong appeals court has ruled that prosecutors failed to prove democracy advocate Lai had committed rent fraud. The former publisher nevertheless remains behind bars on other national security charges.
Booming markets propel Hong Kong exchange’s profits to record high
Hong Kong’s stock exchange reported record profits for the second consecutive year on Thursday, after the finance hub topped the global rankings for initial public offerings in 2025.
Hong Kong court jails father of US-based democracy activist under national security law
A Hong Kong court on Thursday sentenced the father of a wanted pro-democracy activist to eight months in prison under the city’s national security law after he attempted to terminate her insurance policy and withdraw the funds.
Hungary accuses Ukraine of ‘oil blockade,’ deploys soldiers to key energy facilities
Hungary has accused Ukraine of disrupting oil supplies it gets from Russia and has stationed troops at critical energy facilities across the country.
Automaker Stellantis posts massive loss, pivots from EV
Troubled automaker Stellantis, behind brands like Jeep and Fiat, announced Thursday a net loss of 22.3 billion euros ($26.3 billion) for last year, blaming a lack of demand for electric
Jamaat chief slams Bangladesh President, says details around Hasina’s exit ‘suppressed’
The Jamaat chief, who is also the LoP in the Bangladeshi Parliament, accused the President of withholding key facts about the events of August 5, 2024. | World News
Green Party takes Gorton and Denton from Labour in first ever Westminster by-election win
The Greens’ Hannah Spencer wins the Manchester seat, ahead of Reform UK in second and Labour in third.
Ukraine Is Losing the War
With Moscow pressing its advantage, Kyiv should trade land for peace.
Gorton and Denton by-election
A Green Party source says they are “very confident of a win” – Labour’s deputy leader Lucy Powell says the Greens were able to “turn out” more of their vote.
UAE cybersecurity chief warns of social media fraud targeting society
Dr Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Government Cybersecurity Council, warned of electronic fraud methods targeting members of society through social…
UAE crisis management approach offers lessons in restraint and ethics: Gargash
Discover how the UAE’s crisis management approach, as highlighted by Dr. Anwar Gargash, emphasizes restraint, ethics, and enduring relationships over transient disagreements, offering valuable lessons in diplomacy.
PureHealth signs 25-year solar deal to power UAE hospitals with clean energy
PureHealth partners with Yellow Door Energy in a 25-year solar deal to power UAE hospitals with clean energy, supporting the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and reducing carbon emissions by 7,200 metric tonnes annually.
UAE President receives Rulers of the Emirates on the occasion of Ramadan
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosts Rulers of the Emirates and dignitaries, including Indonesia’s President, for Ramadan greetings and discussions on UAE’s progress and unity.
SEWA enhances Sharjah street lighting network, installs 4,359 new lighting poles
The Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) continues its efforts to develop and upgrade the street lighting network as part of its strategic plan…
UAE strongly condemns deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan
The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned the terrorist attacks that targeted police officers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces, which resulted…
Take advantage of early fine payment initiative via Tamm, Abu Dhabi motorists urged
Abu Dhabi Police called on drivers to take advantage of the facilities, discounts and services associated with early payment of traffic fines through the Tamm…
Dubai awards Dh2.5 billion stormwater contracts in flood defence leap
Serving 30 key areas and supporting three million residents by 2040, the initiative reflects Dubai’s proactive approach to urban planning and climate neutrality goals.
Dubai Municipality awards contracts for 5 projects within the “Tasrif” program at a cost of 2.5 billion dirhams
In implementation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, to develop infrastructure…
Russia launches combined overnight missile and drone attack at Ukrainian cities, injuring at least 28
Russia launched a combined missile and drone attack across Ukraine early on Feb. 26, targeting Kyiv and other cities and causing damage to residential buildings and civilian infrastructure.
Where are Southeast Asia’s data centres?
New data centres are springing up worldwide as demand soars for artificial intelligence and cloud computing, with Asia one of the sector’s fastest growing regions.
Export ban sparks rush to process lithium in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s ban on raw lithium exports is forcing Chinese miners to rethink their strategy, speeding up plans to process the metal locally instead of shipping it to China’s vast rechargeable
Jimmy Lai’s fraud conviction overturned by Hong Kong court in rare legal win for activist
Appellate court quashes convictions linked to lease violations but Lai may still spend rest of his life in prison
North Korea’s Kim Jong Un warns South Korea, says US should end hostility
Kim emphasised that Pyongyang intends to cement its position on the global stage through its nuclear capabilities.
Kim Jong-un vows no ties with Seoul but leaves door open to US talks
Kim Jong-un said North Korea could “get along well” with the United States if Washington acknowledges its nuclear status, but dashed hopes of a diplomatic thaw with Seoul.
Cricket could rescue a lot more than Imran Khan
Imran Khan: Former cricket legends are calling for improved jail conditions for Imran Khan. Dozens of international captains have written to Pakistan’s Prime Minister. They seek medical care and humane treatment for the former leader. This unprecedented move highlights Khan’s unique journey from sports icon to political figure. The letter emphasizes sportsmanship and dignity for rivals.
US men’s hockey player ‘sorry’ for Trump joke response
US Olympic men’s ice hockey player Charlie McAvoy apologized Thursday for his team’s response after President Donald Trump joked he would “have to” invite the women’s team to the White
Third round talks end in Geneva with ‘significant progress’, says Oman FM
US-Iran tensions live: Iran said that nuclear talks with the US have progressed “very intensely and very seriously” as the two sides continued negotiations over a nuclear deal in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday. | World News
Court clears Jimmy Lai of fraud as government slams him for ‘exploiting resources’
Court of Appeal quashes conviction, ruling prosecution failed to prove Lai had made a ‘false representation’ or could be held liable for concealment.
Southeast Asia’s data centre boom
Nonstop buzzing fills a windowless Microsoft data centre near Jakarta, part of a tech construction boom sweeping Southeast Asia that promises economic opportunities but is also hungry for resources.
Dh500,000 up for grabs in Dubai Police Ramadan contests
Join Dubai Police’s 44th annual Ramadan religious competitions with Dh500,000 in prizes. Enhance your cultural knowledge and community engagement during the holy month. Open to Dubai Police employees, students, and more.
Report: Hemedti is closely linked to a real estate portfolio in Dubai
A new report issued by the investigative organization ‘The Sentry’ reveals that the leader of the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemeti), purchased three apartments in the eastern suburbs.
Watch: Ajman launches AI vehicle inspection lane, done in 7 minutes
Discover how Ajman’s new AI-powered vehicle inspection lane reduces inspection time from 20 to just 7 minutes, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction. Learn about the innovative technology transforming government services in the UAE.
The launch of the “Emirates Ramadan Volunteering Forum” in Abu Dhabi
https://www.wam.ae/a/173d7uw
Some of Dubai’s oldest restaurants: 20+ years and still going strong
The city is a full-on foodie paradise. Here are some of Dubai’s oldest restaurants for 20+ years and still going strong in 2026
Abdullah bin Bayyah calls on community members and institutions to support the “Had Life” campaign
https://www.wam.ae/a/byxo6m1
Dubai gold falls Dh3.50 while global rally pushes prices near $5,200
Dubai gold prices dip by Dh3.50, offering a brief respite for buyers amid global market volatility. As international bullion nears $5,200, local shoppers are closely monitoring whether this pullback is temporary or a buying opportunity.
Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi witnesses the activities of the 6th session of the Sharjah Police Excellence Councils
https://www.wam.ae/a/byxo6p1
UAE’s drug monopoly rules bring promise of cheaper health care
Patients and doctors back move that should also reduce drug shortages
Gig guide: All the must-see performances in Dubai this March
From orchestras and chart-topping artists to comedy heavyweights and theatrical spectaculars, here are the performances in Dubai to book
Dubai parking fees may rise in 2026 as traffic authorities review tariff hike
Middle East News: Dubai motorists could face higher parking fees in 2026 after Parkin submitted a proposal to the RTA to raise public parking tariffs and revise seasonal card prices. The planned changes follow a 51% jump in average hourly parking costs in 2025 under the variable tariff system, booming seasonal pass sales, and strong profit growth. Learn what the possible new parking charges mean for residents, high-demand zones, and the future of dynamic, demand-based parking in Dubai.
17 outdoor iftars to enjoy in Dubai this Ramadan 2026
It’s outdoor season in Dubai, and why not make the most of the beautiful weather with outdoor iftars? See you there…
Dubai Police Iftar cannon draws crowds in cherished Ramadan tradition
Experience the cherished tradition of Dubai Police’s Iftar Cannon during Ramadan, drawing crowds to witness the historic firing that signals the time to break the fast. Discover the locations and join the community in celebrating Emirati heritage.
Sharjah expands smart parking network with 2,421 AI-powered spaces
Discover Sharjah’s latest smart parking expansion with 2,421 AI-powered spaces, enhancing urban convenience and tourism. Learn how the new system improves parking efficiency and customer satisfaction.
“Sustainability in the Creative Industries” is the topic of a session at the annual Economic Council in Sharjah
https://www.wam.ae/a/byxo6p0
‘Ayaam Al Ajouz,’ a sudden cold wave begins today and lasts for 8 days
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, explained that the
US women’s ice hockey captain responds to ‘distasteful’ Trump remark
Hilary Knight, captain of the victorious US women’s Olympic ice hockey team, said Wednesday it was unfortunate that a “distasteful joke” by President Donald Trump had overshadowed the achievements of








