Author: Sam Allcock

Emirates has announced that, effective 1 October 2025, passengers will no longer be permitted to use power banks onboard its flights. The airline said the decision follows a comprehensive safety review in response to a growing number of lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation industry. While customers may still carry one power bank under 100 Watt Hours, Emirates has clarified strict new rules: The airline emphasized that the move aims to mitigate the risks of thermal runaway—a dangerous self-heating process in lithium-ion batteries that can lead to fire, explosion, or the release of toxic gases. “Safety is one of Emirates’…

Etihad Airways has announced the return of its seasonal service to Zanzibar, offering travelers a summer escape to one of the Indian Ocean’s most iconic islands. Starting 14 June 2026 until 6 September 2026, the airline will operate four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Zanzibar. The service, flown by an Airbus A320 with both Business and Economy cabins, marks Zanzibar as Etihad’s 30th new destination this year. Etihad says the decision to relaunch the route was supported by its expanded European network, with double-daily services feeding Abu Dhabi, making Zanzibar more accessible for passengers from Europe and the GCC.…

Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A320neo aircraft, marking the beginning of its landmark 120-aircraft order placed with Airbus in 2019. The new aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines and fitted with Airbus’s signature Sharklets, was welcomed at a ceremony at Sharjah International Airport attended by Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia; HE Sheikh Khalid Bin Issam Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation; HE Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority; and Adel Al Ali,…

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the expansion of its School of Life initiative to include the Al Rashidiya Public Library, further extending its reach across the Dubai Public Library network. The move underscores the Authority’s role in enriching knowledge, supporting community wellbeing, and contributing to Dubai’s Quality of Life Strategy, which aims to position the city as a global hub for culture and learning. The expansion was informed by a public survey that revealed strong interest from Al Rashidiya visitors in participating in School of Life events. Respondents expressed enthusiasm for talks, creative impact tracks,…

Prime Video has released the official trailer for its upcoming Turkish original film Dehşet Bey, sparking excitement among fans with its mix of action, romance, and high drama. Starring Barış Arduç and Tuba Büyüküstün, the film will premiere exclusively on Prime Video on October 21. Directed by acclaimed Turkish filmmaker Mehmet Ada Öztekin, known for The Prisoner (Mahkum) and the internationally celebrated Miracle in Cell No. 7, the movie is being promoted as one of the platform’s most ambitious regional productions to date. A Star-Studded Cast Dehşet Bey pairs two of Turkey’s most popular screen icons. Barış Arduç takes on…

A photo of Egyptian cinema legend Adel Emam in a wheelchair at the Grand Mosque in Mecca has caused widespread concern among fans before being exposed as fake. The image, which spread rapidly on social media platforms this week, appeared to show the 84-year-old actor performing Umrah rituals in Saudi Arabia. Admirers expressed both worry over his health and joy at his spiritual journey. Some users speculated that he had been granted a rare exception to enter the Kaaba’s courtyard in a wheelchair, where such mobility aids are usually restricted. However, digital forensics quickly revealed a different story. AI-image detection…

For those who have ever dreamed of leaving Earth behind, NASA has unveiled an ambitious vision that could make it possible within a decade. The U.S. space agency announced plans to establish a permanent human settlement on the Moon by 2035, marking a historic step toward sustained life beyond Earth. Speaking at the International Aeronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney, NASA Administrator Sean Duffy outlined the agency’s long-term vision of building an entire “village” on the Moon. Powered by nuclear energy and designed for long-term human habitation, the project aims to go beyond temporary outposts to create a self-sustaining lunar community.…

In a region where opposites often create the most memorable combinations—iced tea on a hot day, sneakers with a suit—the Nissan Magnite is making its mark by blending city-smart agility with the commanding presence of an SUV. Arabian Automobiles, the exclusive distributor for Nissan in Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, has positioned the Magnite as a disruptive force in the entry-level SUV category, starting at AED 59,900. Big Features, Bold Value Despite its compact footprint, the Magnite delivers features usually reserved for larger and more expensive models. As part of a special Back-to-School offer, buyers receive three years of…

Ooredoo has officially launched the third phase of its 2025 Goodwill Journey, the company’s flagship corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, reaffirming its dedication to uplifting communities and driving sustainable impact across the Sultanate. Now in its 21st year, the initiative has become a national symbol of care, empowerment, and long-term commitment to social progress. The convoy departed from Muscat on 29 September, embarking on a route that connects towns and villages, particularly in remote and rural areas. This year’s journey integrates themes of sustainability, environmental innovation, women’s empowerment, and inclusion, combining immediate community support with initiatives designed to have long-lasting…

The Toyota GAZOO Racing World Rally Team (TGR-WRT) has cemented its place in motorsport history with a record-breaking triumph at Rally Chile, where Sébastien Ogier and co-driver Vincent Landais steered the No. 17 Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 to victory, leading teammates Elfyn Evans and Scott Martin in the No. 33 to secure yet another dominant one-two finish. The result marks Toyota’s 103rd win in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), surpassing all other manufacturers, and a record-equaling 30th one-two finish. With only three rounds left in the 2025 season, Toyota now extends its manufacturers’ championship lead to 125 points, placing…