Reborn dolls, hyper-realistic baby replicas, are gaining popularity in the UAE as collectibles, therapeutic tools, and novelty items. With lifelike features, accessories, and emotional appeal, they're attracting buyers of all ages. While some find them comforting or educational, others are unsettled by their realism. Globally, the trend sparks both fascination and debate, especially in countries like Brazil.

A UAE man has been sentenced to six months in jail in a case involving sorcery, privacy invasion, and digital fraud. Authorities say he contacted self-proclaimed spiritual healers online and shared private information over WhatsApp. The court upheld the conviction after appeal, citing strong evidence and reaffirming strict laws against sorcery and misuse of personal data.

Two oil tankers, Adalynn and Front Eagle, collided off the UAE coast early on June 17, sparking a fire and a small oil spill. All crew members were safely evacuated. Authorities attributed the accident to navigational misjudgment. Tracking data showed Front Eagle made a right turn, hitting the side of Adalynn as both ships moved in the area.

The UAE has waived all overstay fines for Iranian nationals, both residents and visitors, due to travel disruptions caused by the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. The exemption, valid until December 31, 2025, was ordered by President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Iranian citizens must register via ICP smart services or visit customer centres to benefit.

Dubais Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with e&, has completed the rollout of free Wi-Fi across all 43 bus and marine transport stations. This initiative enhances commuter connectivity, supporting Dubais vision to become the worlds smartest city. The service will be continuously evaluated to ensure high-quality internet access, improving the overall public transport experience across the emirate.

Amid escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, Qatar has intensified monitoring of radiation levels in the Gulf following Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and energy sites. Doha is closely tracking environmental developments, warning of unpredictable consequences from targeting sensitive facilities. Qatar condemned strikes on energy infrastructure, urging de-escalation and international intervention to prevent further destabilization.

A devastating fire at Dubai Marinas 67-storey Marina Pinnacle Tower has left residents grappling with loss as they return to smoke-damaged and destroyed homes. With controlled access overseen by authorities, survivors recount harrowing escapes and emotional recoveries. Amid the destruction, community support has surged, offering aid, counselling, and solidarity in the face of overwhelming personal tragedy.

Two Sharjah school staff members have been convicted of negligence in the death of eight-year-old Indian student Rashid Habib, who collapsed while walking alone to class in March 2024. The appeal court ordered Dh200,000 in compensation to the family, ruling that the staffs absence amounted to gross negligence. Rashids father said the conviction brings some closure, but the pain remains.

The UAE will permit the sale of tobacco-free nicotine pouches starting July 29, aiming to offer smokers an alternative to quit. These pouches deliver nicotine without smoke, potentially reducing lung damage, but concerns remain regarding long-term health impacts and addiction. Experts highlight the importance of comparing their effectiveness to established nicotine replacement therapies like patches and gums.

The UAE activated its emergency airport response plan following airspace closures by Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, and Israel due to heightened regional tensions. Field teams were deployed to manage passenger flows, expedite procedures, and provide support, ensuring minimal disruption. Authorities focused on passenger welfare, offering accommodation and real-time updates, while maintaining service quality and safety across UAE airports.

Tragedy struck as Israeli forces allegedly opened fire on Palestinians awaiting aid trucks in Gaza, resulting in 51 deaths and over 200 injuries, according to Gaza's health ministry. Witnesses reported a massacre, with continued shooting as people fled.

Many UAE jobseekers working on visit visas face legal and financial uncertainty due to employers false promises and lack of formal contracts. Experts warn against starting work without a valid employment visa. The emotional toll is severe, with false hopes causing anxiety and depression. Authorities stress the need for ethical hiring and legal compliance to protect vulnerable expatriates.

In May 2025, Qatar Airways quietly walked away from its Boeing 737 MAX 10 order, a move shaped as much by past friction with Airbus as by ongoing certification delays at Boeing. The decision hints at a broader shift in how airlines, Qatar included, are rethinking commitments, weighing risks, and signaling that in todays market, timing and trust may matter more than brand loyalty.

Ali Shadmani, Iran's wartime chief of staff, was killed in an airstrike in Tehran, as confirmed by the Israel defense forces. This marks the second elimination of a top Iranian commander by Israel within five days, following the death of Shadmani's predecessor. Shadmani recently headed Iran's military emergency command, overseeing coordination between the army and the revolutionary guard.

Dubai has reintroduced its Our Flexible Summer initiative, offering government employees two flexible work schedule options from July 1 to September 12, 2025. The program aims to enhance work-life balance and productivity during peak summer. Following a successful pilot last year with 98% employee satisfaction, the initiative is now being implemented across departments at their discretion.

The UAEs Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has sanctioned several domestic worker recruitment agencies for legal violations, including failure to refund recruitment fees within 14 days. MoHRE reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy, urged employers to use licensed agencies, and released an updated list of 128 accredited centers across the UAE to ensure safe and compliant recruitment practices.

Dubai's property market continues its upward trend in 2025, with villa prices soaring and apartments also experiencing significant gains. Experts predict further, though more moderate, price increases throughout the year. The market is showing signs of balancing, suggesting a shift towards sustainable growth after a period of rapid escalation, driven by strong demand.

Following a major fire at Dubai Marinas Tiger Tower, the community has rallied to support displaced residents. Dr. Deepti Arora initiated WhatsApp groups to coordinate donations of food, clothing, and toiletries, while Sevgi Anar organized emergency housing. Businesses and individuals have offered accommodation, pet care, and beauty services, showcasing Dubai's strong community spirit in times of crisis.

The GCC has approved a unified tourist visa allowing travel across all six member states, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, with a single entry. Expected to launch soon, the visa aims to boost tourism, leisure travel, and regional GDP. Industry leaders hail it as a transformative step for economic integration and job creation across the Gulf.

Escalating tensions between Israel and Iran led to flight disruptions, leaving UAE expatriates stranded in CIS countries like Armenia and Azerbaijan. Families faced unexpected expenses as airlines suspended or rerouted flights, forcing travellers to book costly alternative routes via Istanbul or Doha. Travel agencies are working to rebook passengers, while airlines adjust routes to bypass dangerous airspace.

Ajman and Sharjah municipalities have banned the sale of Zamzam water in commercial establishments due to concerns about counterfeit products. This action follows the discovery of a fake Zamzam bottling operation in Sharjah. Authorities urge the public to obtain Zamzam water only through official Saudi channels to ensure authenticity and safety, respecting its religious significance and preventing fraudulent practices.

Tensions escalate as Iran and Israel engage in direct warfare, marking a dangerous new phase after Israel's strikes on Iranian infrastructure. Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Israeli cities, resulting in casualties and widespread damage. The conflict threatens to destabilize the Middle East, disrupt global oil markets, and derail nuclear diplomacy.

Saudi Arabia has implemented a new policy, effective June 10, 2025, requiring all Umrah pilgrims to have confirmed hotel bookings via the Nusuk Masar platform before visa issuance. This initiative aims to protect pilgrims' rights, eliminate fraudulent housing practices, and ensure high accommodation standards. The move aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, integrating digital innovation to enhance the pilgrimage experience.

Gerard Butler recently attended the How to Train Your Dragon regional premiere in Riyadh, highlighting Saudi Arabias rapid cinematic rise since lifting its 2018 cinema ban. Butler praised the Kingdoms hospitality and growing film industry, while reflecting on his role as Stoick the Vast, showcasing both a country and a character opening up to the world.

A team of scientists at NYU Abu Dhabi has developed the RCP-Chip, a paper-based diagnostic device that detects infectious diseases in under 10 minutes. Designed for low-resource settings, its portable, affordable, and can be adapted to test for various diseases. The team has filed a patent and aims to commercialize the device for global use.

The expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup 2025 runs from June 15 to July 13 in the US. Dubai club Al Ain will face Manchester City on June 23 at 5 AM GST in the Round of 16. Fans in Dubai can watch all matches live at top sports bars, cafs, and pubs across the city.

Dubai's Kindness Blood Donation Team, founded by Indian expats in 2015, has saved over 25,000 lives through 250+ campaigns. Initiated by Shihab Theruvath, Anwar Wayanad, and Salam Kanyappady, the team quickly mobilized donors using WhatsApp groups, bridging the gap between need and availability. Their resilience shone during COVID-19, maintaining critical blood supplies.

The UAE's Midday Work Ban starts June 15. It stops outdoor work from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM until September 15. This protects workers from heat. The ban has a high compliance rate. MoHRE inspects sites and offers support. Violators face fines. The UAE aims for safe work conditions. Public can report violations. This ban aligns with UAE's 2031 vision.

A major fire erupted in a 67-story residential tower in Dubai Marina late Friday, prompting a swift response from Dubai Civil Defence. Firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze after six hours, safely evacuating all 3,820 residents without any injuries. Tram services were temporarily suspended as a precaution, with replacement shuttle buses provided, while authorities continue to monitor the situation.