This photo provided by NOAA Fisheries shows a Rice’s whale at the surface in the Gulf of Mexico. (NOAA Fisheries (Permit #779-1633) via AP) A rarely used federal panel with the authority to override endangered species protections has approved a request from the Trump administration to expand oil and gas drilling in the Gulf of […]
Hajj 2026 preparations intensify with early visas, strict deadlines and Nusuk bookings as registrations cross 1.2 million globally / Image: file Saudi Arabia has accelerated preparations for Hajj 2026 (1447 AH), introducing earlier visa processing, stricter timelines and a fully digital system to manage millions of pilgrims.According to official timelines, Hajj is expected to take […]
Visit restricted countries? Saudi warns of SR30,000 fine, 2-year ban / Image: file Saudi Arabia introduced new travel regulations for its citizens, imposing financial penalties and travel bans on those who visit restricted countries without official approval. The updated rules fall under the Kingdom’s Travel Documents Law, which was implemented through executive regulations approved by […]
In western Norway, a quiet underwater discovery is drawing attention from archaeologists and historians who study early coastal life. Beneath the seabed near a narrow channel in Grindasundet, close to the village of Telavåg in Øygarden, researchers have identified a long stone formation that appears to have been deliberately constructed. It lies not far from […]
Abu Dhabi draw turns Indian expat millionaire with Dh20 million Big Ticket jackpot / Image: file An Indian expatriate based in Oman won the Dh20 million grand prize in the latest Big Ticket draw held in Abu Dhabi, marking one of the month’s biggest wins.Shanthanu Shettigar, a Karnataka native working in the retail sector in […]
UAE to see light rain, strong winds and rough seas next week as NCM warns of changing weather conditions / Image: file The UAE is set to see a noticeable shift in weather conditions next week, with forecasts pointing to light rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions, according to the National Center of Meteorology […]
No church masses until further notice in Dubai amid security concerns during holy week / Image: file Dubai’s Catholic churches suspended all masses and parish activities effective Friday, April 3, 2026, following official safety directives issued amid heightened regional tensions. The decision, confirmed by multiple parishes, comes during Holy Week, the most significant period in […]
Iran has said it is drafting a proposal with Oman to “monitor” the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the region continue to escalate and concerns grow over maritime security.Iranian diplomat Kazem Gharibabadi, quoted by state-run IRNA, said the proposal is “intended to facilitate and ensure safe passage and provide better services to ships passing […]
Hidden away on the northeastern coast of South America is a country so green and lush that it seems like something out of a fantasy world. Suriname, a country often forgotten on the world stage, is literally overrun by the forces of nature. While other countries are struggling to maintain their natural environments, Suriname is […]
Eight people, including rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30, have been arrested across Dallas, Memphis and Nashville in connection with an alleged kidnapping and armed robbery at a Dallas music studio, the US Department of Justice announced on April 2, 2026, with one suspect still at large. Federal prosecutors said the incident took place on January […]
