By Desmond Nleya
UAE Ranked Among World’s Top Three Humanitarian Donors
The United Arab Emirates has been named the third-largest humanitarian donor globally for 2025, according to new data from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA).
Figures released through the Financial Tracking Service (FTS) show the UAE contributed US$1.46 billion, accounting for 7.2% of all international aid recorded this year.
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised the ranking, noting that the UAE’s leadership continues to prioritise humanitarian and development work rooted in assistance, solidarity and sustainable development for all people, regardless of race, religion or nationality.
President Issues Emiri Decree
In other national developments, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, has issued an Emiri decree promoting Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the rank of Department Chairman.
Dh3.2 Million Compensation Ordered in Gold Embezzlement Case
A Dubai civil court has ordered an Asian man to pay Dh3.2 million, plus 5 per cent annual interest, court fees and legal costs, after he was found guilty of embezzling 15kg of 24-karat gold from two business partners.
The case, which dates back to early 2024, began when the partners reported the theft — valued at Dh3.5 million to Dubai Police. The criminal conviction was followed by the civil ruling in favour of the victims.
Pilot Killed in Tejas Fighter Jet Crash at Dubai Airshow
The final day of the Dubai Airshow 2025 was overshadowed by tragedy after an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during an afternoon demonstration on Friday, November 21.
The aircraft failed to gain altitude at approximately 2:13 PM o Friday before crashing into an open area near the event site. Emergency teams responded immediately, and aerial displays were suspended. Authorities confirmed the pilot’s death at 3:11 PM.
The UAE Ministry of Defence, Dubai Airshow Organising Committee, and the Indian Air Force have all issued statements expressing condolences. A court of inquiry has been launched to determine the cause of the crash.
Putin Shows Openness to New U.S. Peace Proposal
Russian President Vladimir Putin has cautiously welcomed a new United States proposal aimed at ending the nearly four-year conflict in Ukraine.
Putin said the plan may serve as a “foundation for a final peace settlement,” but stressed that detailed negotiations are required.
Reports suggest the proposal includes several concessions long sought by Moscow, including Ukrainian territorial adjustments, military reductions and withdrawal of NATO ambitions.
G20 Summit Opens Amid U.S. Boycott
The G20 Summit opened in Johannesburg on Friday with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer receiving an energetic welcome from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The gathering marks the first time the global summit has been hosted on African soil.
However, the event is overshadowed by the absence of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has boycotted the summit, accusing South Africa of discriminating against its white Afrikaner minority. South Africa has denied the allegations.
UAE Suffer Narrow Defeat in World Cup Playoff
In sports, the UAE national football team suffered a heartbreaking 2–1 defeat to Iran in a FIFA World Cup playoff. Despite a spirited performance, the UAE fell short in the closing stages, ending their hopes of qualification.
Hakimi Crowned African Ballon d’Or Winner
Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi has been awarded the African Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Moroccan to receive the honour since 1998.
The PSG defender enjoyed a standout season, winning the Champions League, Ligue 1, French Cup and Trophée des Champions. He recorded 11 goals and 17 assists across 55 matches, scoring crucial goals in the Champions League knockout rounds.
Dubai World Cup 2026 Tickets Now Available
Tickets for the Dubai World Cup 2026 are now on sale, with early bird discounts running until December 31, 2025.
The prestigious event, scheduled for March 28 at Meydan Racecourse, marks its 30th anniversary and features nine elite races with a prize purse of $30.5 million.
General admission tickets start at Dh40.
