Rizwan Zulfiqar Bhutta

The UAE, The Startup Capital of the World A National Sprint to Rewire an Economy

The UAE The Startup Capital of the World A National Sprint to Rewire an Economy By Rizwan Zulfiqar Bhutta When a nation chooses to redefine its future, it does not do so lightly. The United Arab Emirates has now embarked on one of the most ambitious economic projects in its modern history. Under the banner “The UAE: The Startup Capital of the World”, the country has launched a bold campaign to position itself as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. With a clear target of training 10,000 Emiratis in entrepreneurship and generating 30,000 new jobs by 2030, the initiative is not just a statement of intent, but a call to action that reimagines the country’s economic DNA. For decades, the UAE has been known for trade, logistics, oil wealth, world-class infrastructure, and its ability to attract global talent. Now it seeks to evolve beyond those strengths by nurturing the next generation of founders, innovators, and risk-takers. This campaign represents the pivot from an economy powered by resources to one driven by people, ideas, and innovation. Why Now, The Strategic Logic The timing could not be more significant. Across the globe, economies are being reshaped by technology, artificial intelligence, and new business models. Oil revenues, while still strong, are no longer seen as a sustainable foundation for long-term prosperity. The UAE has already proven its ability to diversify through tourism, aviation, real estate, and finance, but the next frontier lies in entrepreneurship. By making startups a national priority, the UAE is addressing several challenges at once: job creation for its citizens, diversification away from hydrocarbons, and positioning itself as a beacon for global investment. At its core, the campaign is about harnessing the creative energy of young Emiratis and embedding innovation into the very fabric of the national economy. The Architecture of the Campaign At the center of the initiative is a new digital hub designed to act as a one-stop shop for aspiring entrepreneurs. This platform will offer online training, mentorship programs, access to co-working spaces, introductions to investors, and curated networking opportunities. It is designed to take a founder from idea to launch with the kind of support that has, until now, been scattered across separate agencies and organizations. More than 50 public and private partners have joined forces in the campaign. They include government agencies, banks, accelerators, corporate entities, and academic institutions, all working in concert to ensure that entrepreneurs can access the markets, capital, and skills they need. Startups will also be integrated into government procurement, giving them a ready-made avenue for contracts and revenue. In this way, the campaign tackles one of the greatest challenges facing entrepreneurs worldwide, which is not just access to money, but access to customers. The Vision, What the UAE Wants to Achieve The campaign’s vision stretches beyond the numbers. It is not only about training 10,000 people or creating 30,000 jobs, but about embedding entrepreneurship into the national identity. The UAE is aiming to make founding a company as credible a career choice as working in government or pursuing traditional professions. The broader vision is to build an economy where Emiratis are not just employees, but leaders of high-growth companies, innovators in technology, and creators of intellectual property. It imagines cities across the country buzzing with co-working spaces, labs, accelerators, and venture capital firms, with the UAE recognized globally as the place where ideas take flight. The Targets, Ambition and Accountability The commitment to measurable targets gives the initiative real weight. By 2030, the UAE wants to see thousands of new entrepreneurs trained and tens of thousands of jobs created. Meeting those targets will require more than enthusiasm, it will demand cultural change, supportive policies, financing structures, and a tolerance for failure. Yet, if any country can do it, it is the UAE. Its government has shown time and again that it can deliver national-scale projects, from building futuristic cities to launching a Mars mission. The challenge will be to sustain momentum, ensure the quality of training, and create genuine pathways from education into viable businesses. Future Benefits: Beyond the Numbers If the campaign succeeds, the benefits will extend far beyond the immediate goals. First, it will create a pipeline of globally competitive Emirati founders who can scale businesses across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. This would position the UAE not just as a hub for startups, but as an exporter of innovation and talent. Second, the initiative will help balance the labor market by providing young Emiratis with alternatives to public sector employment. This shift will strengthen the private sector, reduce reliance on government jobs, and encourage more dynamic economic participation. Third, successful startups will attract more venture capital into the country, reinforcing a cycle of investment, growth, and reinvestment. Over time, this could lead to the emergence of UAE-born unicorns, companies valued at over a billion dollars, further cementing the country’s reputation as a startup capital. Finally, the initiative has social and cultural benefits. It empowers women, young people, and communities outside the main urban centers by giving them the tools to build businesses. It encourages risk-taking, creativity, and resilience, values that will shape not only the economy but the identity of future generations. Opportunities and Competitive Advantages The UAE enjoys a set of advantages that many aspiring startup hubs can only envy. Its location makes it a gateway to three continents. Its policies allow for flexible visas, attractive free zones, and world-class infrastructure. Its capital resources, both government-backed and private, are immense. Most importantly, its leadership has the political will to make entrepreneurship a national priority. The Global Ripple Effect The success of the campaign will not stop at the UAE’s borders. A vibrant startup ecosystem in the Emirates would draw investors, accelerators, and founders from across the world, making the country a regional headquarters for innovation. Neighboring states may follow suit, creating a Gulf-wide startup corridor that connects markets across the Middle East and beyond. For global entrepreneurs, the UAE could become the natural

Loneliness in the Age of Connection

Loneliness in the Age of Connection By Ami Jain The world that never stops buzzing, where our phones light up before our eyes fully open and the hum of notifications follows us everywhere, it feels impossible to imagine being alone. Yet beneath the surface of constant connectivity, many of us carry a quiet, unshakable truth: the more connected we become, the lonelier we often feel. This is the paradox of our age, one we rarely name out loud but one that defines our days in ways we are only beginning to understand.

Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak Emirati Visionary Shaping Global Investments & Football

Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak Emirati Visionary Shaping Global Investments & Football By Rizwan Zulfiqar Bhutta In the fast-paced world of international finance and elite sport, few individuals embody the fusion of vision, diplomacy, and leadership as seamlessly as His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak. From Abu Dhabi’s corridors of power to the bright lights of European football, he has established himself as one of the UAE’s most influential figures. As the driving force behind Mubadala Investment Company and the Chairman of City Football Group, Al Mubarak’s work represents not just personal success but the broader ambitions of the Emirates on the global stage. Born in Abu Dhabi in 1975, Al Mubarak was raised in a family deeply rooted in public service and diplomacy. He pursued higher education in the United States, graduating with a degree in Economics and Finance before returning home to play a significant role in the UAE’s modernization. Over the years, he has worn many hats. Within government, he serves on Abu Dhabi’s Executive Council, chairs the Executive Affairs Authority, and is a member of the Supreme Council for Financial and Economic Affairs. On the corporate side, he is the CEO and Managing Director of Mubadala Investment Company, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investment arm that manages hundreds of billions of dollars across diverse sectors. His chairmanships extend across institutions such as Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, Emirates Global Aluminium, and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. This dual role, bridging government and business, has made him a linchpin in Abu Dhabi’s strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil while reinforcing its position as a trusted global partner. Investments Across Europe, the UK, and the USA Under Al Mubarak’s stewardship, Mubadala has transformed into a truly global investor. Its portfolio now stretches across technology, infrastructure, healthcare, renewable energy, and financial services, making the UAE a silent yet powerful shareholder in many Western economies. In Europe and the UK, Mubadala has committed billions to life sciences, renewable energy, and cutting-edge technology. A long-term partnership with the UK government resulted in a multi-billion-pound agreement to funnel capital into clean energy, health research, and advanced manufacturing. This reflects Abu Dhabi’s ambition not only to secure economic returns but also to build resilience in industries of the future. In the United States, Mubadala has invested heavily in technology ventures, including self-driving cars, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure. The company has also taken positions in healthcare startups and innovation hubs, ensuring the UAE remains at the heart of transformative industries that shape global progress. Al Mubarak’s investment strategy has always been forward-looking. Instead of short-term speculation, he has built a framework around sustainable growth, innovation, and long-term partnerships. This approach mirrors the broader vision of the Emirates: positioning itself as a bridge between East and West, and a central hub for economic innovation. Football Building a Global Sporting LegacyPerhaps no area of Al Mubarak’s leadership is more visible to the public than his role as Chairman of City Football Group (CFG), the holding company that owns Manchester City and a growing portfolio of clubs across the globe. When Abu Dhabi acquired Manchester City in 2008, few could have predicted the scale of transformation that would follow. Under Al Mubarak’s guidance, the club has been reimagined from a struggling Premier League side into one of the most dominant teams in world football. Multiple league titles, FA Cups, a historic Champions League triumph, and even a Club World Cup now adorn its legacy. Yet his vision has extended far beyond the pitch. Manchester City’s revenues have soared past the £700 million mark, with reinvestments fueling stadium expansions, training facilities, and the women’s team. Every pound of profit has been reinvested into the club ecosystem, creating what Al Mubarak himself calls a “financial and economic machine” designed for sustainable success. CFG’s reach now spans continents, New York City FC in the United States, Melbourne City in Australia, Girona in Spain, and Mumbai City in India, among others. These global acquisitions are not merely about branding; they are part of a deliberate effort to create a footballing network that shares resources, scouting, and talent development. In doing so, Al Mubarak has effectively rewritten the playbook of modern sports ownership. Triumphs, Challenges, and the Road Ahead The 2022/23 treble-winning season marked the pinnacle of Manchester City’s achievements under his tenure. But football is a cycle of highs and lows. The following season, the club endured a rare trophyless year, prompting Al Mubarak to acknowledge the need for more aggressive transfer strategies and to reflect on lessons learned. Still, he has expressed full confidence in the leadership of Pep Guardiola and a commitment to rebuilding swiftly. For Al Mubarak, setbacks are part of growth. His focus remains fixed on the long-term, whether that means nurturing young talent like emerging academy players or expanding the club’s presence in global markets such as Asia and North America. The group’s pre-season tours, often played before stadiums packed with tens of thousands, reflect the universal appeal Manchester City now commands. A Broader Emirati Vision Al Mubarak’s career is more than a personal success story; it is a mirror of the Emirates’ evolving identity. Just as Abu Dhabi has transformed itself from a regional oil producer into a global investment powerhouse, Al Mubarak has balanced tradition with progress. His leadership represents the UAE’s ethos: blending economic diversification, international partnerships, and soft power diplomacy. By anchoring sovereign investments in sectors that define tomorrow, while also reshaping football into a global cultural force, he has ensured that the Emirates’ influence resonates not only in boardrooms but also in stadiums and living rooms worldwide. His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak is not merely a businessman or a football executive; he is a statesman of the modern global economy. His journey demonstrates how the UAE, through bold vision and strategic investments, has become a central player in shaping industries, communities, and cultural landscapes across the world. From pioneering renewable energy projects in Europe to guiding Manchester City to the summit of world football, his story is one of

Apple’s Slim iPhone Air Balances Design Appeal as Stock Gets Downgraded After iPhone 17 Reveal

Apple’s Slim iPhone Air Balances Design Appeal as Stock Gets Downgraded After iPhone 17 Reveal By Rizwan Zulfiqar Bhutta Apple’s latest moves have people talking, and not only because of the polish. Between unveiling the new iPhone lineup, especially the slim iPhone Air, and the lukewarm response from investors after the iPhone 17 reveal, there’s both promise and growing tension in how the company is positioning itself. What’s new and what looks good The iPhone Air is Apple’s slimmest phone yet, measuring just 5.6 mm thin. It uses the new A19 Pro chip, tuned for AI workloads, and includes upgraded communications hardware. Apple is leaning heavily into design again, with a titanium frame and ceramic shield glass that emphasize both strength and style. Pricing is more aggressive too, as the Air sits in the mid-tier range and comes in around one hundred dollars cheaper than comparable rivals. These moves signal that Apple is looking to spark interest through a mix of elegance, refinement, and accessible pricing. For customers who want something that feels new, both visually and physically, the iPhone Air could be a strong pull. The challenges ahead There are trade-offs, however. Battery life is raising concerns, since the ultra-thin frame may limit space for power capacity despite Apple’s promise of all-day usage. The Air also comes with a pared-down camera system, offering a single lens compared to the more advanced setups on higher models. The bigger issue may be Apple’s AI strategy. While the new chip is marketed as AI-ready, the company has yet to demonstrate groundbreaking features to match what competitors are already showcasing. Analysts have voiced disappointment, suggesting that the latest announcements felt more like design polish than true innovation. The market reaction reflects that skepticism. Apple’s stock was downgraded shortly after the iPhone 17 reveal, as investors questioned whether design refinements without deeper functional leaps are enough to reignite growth. The decision to hold firm on pricing despite rising costs and global tariffs adds to the debate, supporting margins but possibly limiting appeal in more price-sensitive regions. Strategic implications The iPhone Air could help drive an upgrade cycle among users who have been holding onto older models, especially with its balance of sleek design and mid-range pricing. If adoption is strong, it may provide Apple a welcome boost during the holiday season. AI, however, remains the battleground. Having the A19 Pro chip in place is a start, but Apple must deliver compelling, visible features that convince consumers it is not falling behind. Without this, the risk grows that design alone will not be enough to sustain its competitive edge. Investor sentiment underscores the point. Stock downgrades highlight a lack of excitement around what is being seen as incremental improvements. The global market adds another layer of complexity, as features like eSIM or single-camera setups may play differently depending on regional expectations. Bottom line Apple has delivered a stylish and competitive entry with the iPhone Air, combining a bold new design with an attractive price point. It reminds the market that Apple can still create devices that turn heads. Yet questions around battery life, camera trade-offs, and most importantly the company’s ability to lead in AI, leave some uncertainty. The coming quarters will show whether this launch can re-energize growth and satisfy both consumers and investors, or whether it is simply another incremental step in a story that increasingly demands bigger leaps.

Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra A Superhero Triumph

Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra A Superhero Triumph By Peter Davis Indian cinema has long aspired to craft a superhero saga that resonates not only with local audiences but also with the global stage. With Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, that dream finally comes alive. Directed by Dominic Arun and led by Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen, the film delivers what many big-budget productions promised but couldn’t fully achieve. This is a superhero story rooted in folklore, enriched by layered writing, and powered by sincere performances. A Marvel Rooted in Folklore Unlike many spectacle-driven films that lean on scale without soul, Lokah marries visual grandeur with heartfelt storytelling. The magnificence extends beyond the CGI and action set pieces, weaving in cultural authenticity, emotional depth, and meaningful themes. It is not just a superhero movie, it is a cultural reimagination of myth meeting the modern world. Superpowered, Soulful Performance Kalyani Priyadarshan shines as Chandra, a centuries-old spirit who has lived among humans in disguise. Her performance is both fierce and tender, commanding the screen with presence and vulnerability. Naslen, playing Sunny, brings comic relief and innocence, creating a bond that humanizes Chandra while lightening the tone. The antagonist, portrayed with menace and conviction, adds real-world stakes to the fantastical narrative, making the conflict feel urgent and grounded. A Visual Vocabulary That Delivers The visual design of Lokah is nothing short of mesmerizing. From vibrant neon cityscapes to star-studded skies and haunting night sequences, the cinematography and production design immerse viewers into a world that feels familiar yet otherworldly. The action choreography and music add rhythm and fire to the story, creating a superhero universe that feels original and alive. Myth Meets the Modern, Authentically What sets Lokah apart is its ability to seamlessly integrate Kerala folklore with contemporary storytelling. Instead of leaning on surface-level iconography, the film reinterprets myth with purpose. This makes the story both inclusive for global audiences and deeply rooted in cultural identity, offering a refreshing alternative to generic fantasy tropes. Emotional Resonance and Worldbuilding Every scene in Lokah contributes to its larger universe, balancing character arcs with franchise-building ambition. The writing is thoughtful, and the pacing, though occasionally slower in the second half, builds a foundation strong enough to support future chapters. Key sequences, including Chandra’s origin and the interval block, deliver goosebumps and emotional weight, proving that spectacle can coexist with sincerity. Technical Triumph with Minor Hiccups The technical team deserves equal credit. The music score elevates the film’s grandeur, while the production design and visual effects rival some of the best in the genre. While there are moments where the story lingers too long on setup, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise ambitious and confident debut chapter. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra is not just a film, it is a milestone for Indian cinema. It redefines what a homegrown superhero movie can be, combining myth, emotion, and spectacle into a package that is both culturally resonant and globally appealing. Where other films faltered in balancing worldbuilding with storytelling, Lokah succeeds with remarkable grace. This is India’s finest superhero film to date, and it sets the stage for a cinematic universe that the world should be ready to embrace.

UAE Pro League 2025/26 Who’s Rising, Who’s Struggling, and What to Expect

UAE Pro League 2025/26 Who’s Rising, Who’s Struggling, and What to Expect By Ruba Al Sarahneh As the 2025/26 UAE Pro League season kicks off, the spotlight is once again on the 14 clubs preparing for what promises to be a demanding and unpredictable campaign. For casual followers, the league can be tricky to follow, with new signings, managerial shifts, and varying team ambitions shaping the competition. This preview breaks down each team’s early form, strengths, and vulnerabilities, giving fans a clearer sense of where the excitement, drama, and pressure points are likely to unfold this season. TITLE CONTENDERS Shabab Al-Ahli The reigning champions remain the team to beat. With Sardar Azmoun leading a strong attack and plenty of depth across the pitch, Shabab Al-Ahli looks sharp again. Their attacking play is creative and fluid, but as always, defensive focus in big games will decide how far they can go in defending their crown. Al Ain The most successful club in UAE football history has started brightly under Vladimir Ivic. Their forward line is firing, and Soufiane Rahimi remains a constant threat. Yet, defensive lapses and adapting to managerial change will be their biggest challenges. If they stay consistent, they’ll be right in the title mix. Al Nasr Built on defensive organization, Al Nasr has started with discipline and control. Their back line looks rock solid, and they’ve yet to concede against weaker sides. The real test will be whether they can handle pressing teams that disrupt their rhythm — if they can, they’re genuine contenders. Al Wasl With one of the most expensive squads in the league, Al Wasl has the firepower to challenge for the top. They can score goals with ease, but defensive instability has already been exposed. If they can strike the right balance, they have the quality to push Al Ain and Shabab Al-Ahli all the way. CHASING THE TOP FOUR Al Wahda Al Wahda looks balanced across midfield and defense, but a lack of finishing power has held them back from maximum points. If their forwards find their shooting boots, they could easily turn into dark horses for the title race. Sharjah A dangerous side going forward, but defensive mistakes have cost them points early. Their ability to tighten up at the back will determine whether they hover around mid-table or push higher into contention. Al Jazira With big names like Nabil Fekir pulling the strings, Al Jazira has the talent to trouble any opponent. The challenge lies in cutting out defensive errors and maintaining focus — consistency has long been their Achilles’ heel. MID-TABLE BATTLERS Khor Fakkan Entertaining but unpredictable, Khor Fakkan has shown attacking promise but remains leaky at the back. Expect high-scoring matches — both for and against. Al Bataeh Capable of upsets but lacking structure, Al Bataeh will need to organize both its defense and midfield if it wants to stay clear of trouble. Ittihad Kalba Solid defensively but short on goals, Kalba has struggled to turn games in its favor. Without more firepower up front, they may slip down the table. Al Dhafra Competitive but inconsistent, Al Dhafra looks evenly balanced between scoring and conceding. To push up the table, they’ll need sharper finishing and stronger defensive resolve. IN THE DANGER ZONE Dibba With two losses and six goals conceded in their first outings, Dibba’s defense has been torn apart too easily. Unless they tighten up quickly, they’ll be locked in a relegation fight. Baniyas Two straight defeats without scoring have put Baniyas in early trouble. Weak up front and shaky at the back, urgent improvements are needed to escape the drop zone. Ajman Like Baniyas, Ajman has yet to find the net and already looks under pressure. Both ends of the pitch require reinforcement if they want to avoid a long, difficult season. The early rounds of the 2025/26 UAE Pro League have already given us a glimpse of what lies ahead: a fierce title race at the top, unpredictable mid-table swings, and an intense relegation battle brewing at the bottom. Shabab Al-Ahli and Al Ain look set to lead the charge, while Al Nasr and Al Wasl won’t be far behind. Yet, as always in Emirati football, surprises are certain. Whether it’s a smaller side upsetting a giant or a star signing lifting their team into contention, fans can expect a season full of goals, drama, and storylines that stretch well beyond the scoreline.

Review: Mayfair Witches A Spell That Nearly Stuns (Score: 9/10)

Review: Mayfair Witches, A Spell That Nearly Stuns Score: 9/10 By Jane Stevens The show creates a rich, Gothic atmosphere, it draws you into the Mayfair legacy, the Southern setting, the hidden magic, the family secrets, the supernatural feels slow-burn, layered, with teasing clues rather than instant jump scares, the pacing gives space for mystery, letting the strange and uncanny settle in, there is an elegance to how magic is introduced little by little so that when transformations or supernatural moments happen they have weight. The shapeshifting, the demonic presence of Lasher, the ancestral witchly power, these are handled quite impressively, while some reviews complain that the horror or magical effects are not as flashy or traditional, there is power in restraint, when Rowan’s powers manifest, when things shift and change, those moments land because the groundwork is there. Alexandra Daddario as Rowan Fielding carries much of the emotional burden, her conflicts, doubts, fear, and growing power are believable and compelling, the supporting cast adds texture, family dynamics, betrayals, and secrets all combine to make character arcs meaningful. There are several strong emotional beats, discovering heritage, confronting family sins, fear of one’s own power, dialogue at its best captures internal conflict, moral ambiguity, and the pain of legacy, scenes where Rowan must confront both external threat and internal transformation are standout. The transformation of Lasher into a human in Season 2, the tensions of power, the legacy burdens, these plot points raise the stakes, they force Rowan to face not just supernatural enemies, but her own values, relationships, and identity. Sometimes the show drags, some plot threads feel slow or under-developed, for viewers not deeply familiar with Anne Rice’s lore, or who prefer more immediate clarity, this can be frustrating, as with many adaptations some of the source material is changed, simplified, or reinterpreted, that will bother purists, character motivations, certain relationships, key events may not align with the books, some critics feel the show lacks the stylistic punch or striking visuals that might elevate it beyond good supernatural drama, the horror isn’t always visceral, effects aren’t always awe-inspiring. Despite its flaws, Mayfair Witches succeeds impressively in areas that many similar supernatural dramas only aspire to, emotional resonance, the sense of real transformation, mystery, and gothic richness, it doesn’t rely heavily on traditional horror tropes like jump scares or overt gore, but the threat, the magic, and the character changes are powerful nonetheless, it keeps you glued not only by what’s happening, but by who’s grappling with it, how it changes them, and the secrets that unfold. For me this deserves a solid 9/10, those emotional arcs and transformations are more compelling than flash, with slightly better pacing or more consistent visual style, it could have been a full 10/10.

Al Ain A Title Contender with Purpose

Al Ain A Title Contender with Purpose By Ruba Al Sarahneh Few teams in Emirati football carry the same weight of expectation as Al Ain, and once again, they’ve stepped into the new season looking every bit like genuine title challengers. Two matches in, two wins secured, and five goals already scored — the Garden City club has wasted no time in reminding rivals of their pedigree. What’s striking about Al Ain’s early form isn’t just the points on the board, but the way they’ve gone about their business. The team looks composed, cohesive, and dangerous in attack, while still keeping enough defensive shape to manage games effectively. A Team Built on Balance This season’s Al Ain side feels like a carefully blended recipe of experience and new energy. Veteran Emirati players anchor the team with leadership and discipline, while the club’s foreign imports add pace, flair, and technical quality. In midfield, they control possession with authority, slowing the game down when needed but also springing forward with sharp, quick transitions. That balance is what makes them so difficult to play against. Key Figures Driving Success Up front, Al Ain has multiple attacking threats who can hurt opponents in different ways — speed on the wings, creativity in tight spaces, and the kind of finishing that punishes even half-chances. Their scoring record so far speaks for itself. At the back, the defense has shown resilience, though moments of hesitation against counter-attacks hint at a weakness that top opponents may try to exploit later in the campaign. Tactical Flexibility Credit must also go to the coaching staff. Under Vladimir Ivic, Al Ain has embraced a flexible style of play. They press high when they sense vulnerability, but also have the patience to sit back and wait for the right moment to strike. This tactical adaptability not only keeps opponents guessing but also gives the team an edge in matches where small details decide the outcome. Strengths and Vulnerabilities Al Ain’s biggest strength is their chemistry — the sense that players know their roles and trust one another. Add to that a deep bench with attacking options, and they look well-prepared for the demands of a long season. The main concern, however, is defensive focus. Against sides that attack with speed and structure, cracks have appeared, and if not addressed, those lapses could cost them crucial points. Still, the message from their opening games is loud and clear: Al Ain means business. With their momentum, quality, and tactical maturity, they’ll be hard to stop in the race for silverware. Their next big test comes against Al Wasl, who sit mid-table after a mixed start. On paper, Al Ain are the favorites, but Al Wasl’s attacking ability could make it a tricky fixture. For the Garden City faithful, though, hopes are high that the purple wave keeps rolling, and that this season ends with another championship to celebrate.

Dhadak 2 A Brave Mirror to India’s Enduring Caste Discrimination

Dhadak 2 A Brave Mirror to India’s Enduring Caste Discrimination By Nida Kanwal Recently, I had the opportunity to watch Dhadak 2, a bold and emotionally jarring Hindi-language romantic drama produced by Dharma Productions, Zee Studios, and Cloud 9 Pictures. The film, a remake of the critically acclaimed 2018 Tamil film Pariyerum Perumal, left me in disbelief that such systemic injustices still persist in 2025, not just in India, but in other parts of the world in varied forms. Sitting in London, witnessing such brutality depicted on screen was deeply disturbing. Directed with courage and clarity by Shazia Iqbal, Dhadak 2 doesn’t just tell a love story, it holds a mirror to the social and cultural structures that continue to oppress millions. Hats off to Iqbal and the producers for bringing this important narrative to the forefront, and equal credit must go to the creators of the original Tamil version who told this powerful story first. Love in the Face of Hatred Dhadak 2 follows Nilesh, a law student from a marginalized caste, as he falls in love with Vidhi, an upper-caste classmate. Their romance becomes the target of relentless hostility and emotional trauma, primarily from Vidhi’s family, who believe that their so-called “honor” is tainted by such a union. What begins as a tender relationship soon becomes a searing commentary on caste-based discrimination in modern India. A Fictional Story Rooted in Real-Life Horrors Although fictional, the film’s narrative is grounded in a painful and ongoing reality: caste-based discrimination and social injustice that continue to impact millions in India, particularly Dalits (formerly known as “untouchables”) and Adivasis (indigenous communities). Despite India’s 1950 Constitution abolishing untouchability and promising equal rights, caste remains a deep-rooted and often violent divide. The Many Faces of Discrimination The film subtly and powerfully reflects several forms of caste-based oppression, which are all too real in today’s India: 1. Social Segregation and Exclusion In countless rural communities, lower-caste individuals still live in separate areas, denied access to shared wells, schools, temples, or even utensils in public places. Public humiliation, classroom segregation, and social ostracism remain widespread. 2. Economic Inequality and Exploitation Caste determines much more than social standing, it dictates livelihood. Many Dalits are still forced into degrading work like manual scavenging, despite legal bans. Access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship remains limited due to systemic bias. Land disputes are also common, with higher castes using violence to deprive Dalit communities of their ancestral lands, worsening poverty cycles. 3. Violence and Impunity Violence against Dalits and Adivasis is both widespread and underreported. Rapes, murders, and assaults often occur with little legal consequence. Victims struggle for justice in a system riddled with caste-based biases, despite protective laws like the 1989 Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. 4. Mental and Emotional Impact The psychological toll of systemic discrimination is profound. Constant marginalization leads to depression, hopelessness, and alienation among lower-caste individuals, especially the youth trying to break the cycle. Laws Exist, But Are They Enough? India has a comprehensive legal framework meant to protect its marginalized communities. These include: Article 17 of the Constitution abolishes untouchability. The Protection of Civil Rights Act (1955), which criminalizes caste-based exclusion. The SC/ST Atrocities Act (1989) provides safeguards and fast-track courts. Yet the reality remains grim. Laws are only as effective as their enforcement, and enforcement often falters under social pressures, institutional apathy, or outright discrimination. Why Dhadak 2 Matters In an era when commercial cinema often shies away from controversy, Dhadak 2 dares to expose the uncomfortable truths of India’s caste system. It brings a regional story to a national, even global audience, compelling viewers to confront injustices they may never have imagined still exist. For international audiences, particularly those living in countries like the UK, the film is a sobering reminder that progress is not uniform across the globe. Issues of inequality, prejudice, and systemic oppression continue to persist only the forms and faces may differ. Final Thoughts Dhadak 2 is more than a film; it is a wake-up call. It forces us to question societal norms, challenge inherited prejudices, and stand up for those whose voices are still stifled. It’s a story of love caught in the crossfire of tradition and cruelty, and of a nation grappling with the ghosts of its own past. In spotlighting these harsh truths, Shazia Iqbal and her team have done more than just make a movie they’ve made a statement. One that resonates deeply, long after the credits roll.

Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair Business Leader, Innovator, National Builder

Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair Business Leader, Innovator, National Builder By Rizwan Zulfiqar Bhutta A Legacy Rooted in Vision The Al Ghurair Family and the UAE The story of Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair cannot be told without first understanding the enduring legacy of his father, Abdulla Ahmad Al Ghurair, and the broader Al Ghurair family, pioneers who helped sculpt modern-day Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. The family’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1960s when the patriarch Ahmad Al Ghurair founded Al Ghurair Group. Over time, the Group launched the UAE’s first cement factory, flour mill, sugar refinery, aluminium extrusion plant, packaging businesses, and even the iconic Al Ghurair Centre shopping mall in 1981. These ventures laid the foundation for diversified industry in the young nation and helped spark its economic transformation. Abdulla Ahmad Al Ghurair emerged as a visionary businessman and philanthropist. In the early 1960s, long before the Union in 1971, Abdulla built several schools including the very first in remote Masafi to bring education to underserved communities. His belief was simple yet profound: education strengthens individual lives and uplifts society as a whole. In 2015, he formalized his philanthropic legacy by pledging one-third of his personal wealth, AED 4.2 billion at the time, to create the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education, a landmark gesture supporting Arab and Emirati youth through scholarships, skills-building, and digital learning platforms. Born on 1 July 1954 in Dubai, Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a degree in industrial engineering and joined the family’s financial arm, Mashreq Bank, in 1977. He rose to Executive Director in 1989 and became CEO in 1990, before being appointed Chairman of Mashreq. Under his leadership, Mashreq became the first bank in the UAE to introduce ATMs, credit and debit cards, consumer loans, POS terminals, travelers’ cheques, and eventually digital banking initiatives such as Mashreq Neo and NeoBiz for SMEs. He expanded the bank’s international footprint by opening branches in New York, London, Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt, India, and Pakistan, positioning Mashreq as a global Emirati financial institution. In addition to his banking leadership, Abdul Aziz is Chairman of the Executive Committee of Al Ghurair Investment, the diversified family conglomerate active in food and resources, properties, construction, energy, mobility, and ventures. The group operates across approximately 50 countries and employs around 28,000 people. The group’s holdings include Al Ghurair Foods, which houses one of the region’s largest flour mills and the Jenan brand, along with mineral water, poultry, and animal feed. Other entities include Arabian Packaging, Taghleef Industries, Gulf Extrusions, CarsTaxi, auto distribution via EXEED, real estate developments like Al Ghurair Centre, and educational institutions such as Dar Al Marefa. In 2023, Abdulla Al Ghurair and family had an estimated net worth of approximately US 3.2 billion, which rose to around US 4 billion in 2024. Abdul Aziz personally has been estimated at around US 2.6 billion. Mashreq reported annual net profit of AED 9.01 billion in 2024, with operating income rising 24 percent, reflecting strong financial stewardship. An Enlightened Vision: The UAE and Its Future According to Father and Son Abdulla Al Ghurair viewed education not merely as policy, but as a moral obligation and civic duty. He was one of the first private citizens to invest in building schools before the formation of the UAE, guided by the philosophy that education empowers individuals, communities, and the nation. He believed that seeking an education is not only about personal achievement but also a civic and religious responsibility as Arabs and Muslims. He foresaw a modern UAE grounded in a knowledge economy, and saw his philanthropic efforts as integral to that future. Abdul Aziz has embraced and expanded his father’s philosophy with a modern, impact-driven approach. As chairman of the Foundation, he emphasizes strategic philanthropy, partnerships, measured impact, and scalable solutions over one-off gifts. He has stated that strategic philanthropy transforms lives by building ecosystems where people thrive. His signature initiative, the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund, launched in June 2018, targets conflict-affected youth in Jordan, Lebanon, and the UAE. With an initial commitment of US 32.6 million, it has enabled over 100,000 refugee youth, more than half of them girls, to access secondary, vocational, or tertiary education through partnerships with NGOs and universities. In the first wave, 20 selected organizations supported 48,000 young people aged 12 to 30. He also pledged US 10 million to become the lead donor of UNICEF and Islamic Development Bank’s Global Muslim Philanthropy Fund for Children, marking the first major Muslim philanthropic commitment to that platform, aiming to support health, education, and youth empowerment across Muslim-majority countries. Abdul Aziz holds strong faith in the future of the UAE. He believes that the nation’s youth are its greatest asset and that private sector leadership must invest in education, entrepreneurship, and innovation. He frequently states that modern challenges require evolution in giving. Philanthropy must become strategic, collaborative, accountable, and youth-centred. Through the Foundation, he has directed resources that have now reached over 239,400 youth, exceeding the original target by around 20 percent well before 2025. Additionally, Al Ghurair Foods signed a 50-year land-lease agreement worth over US 272.3 million in KEZAD, Abu Dhabi, for mega food-processing projects. CarsTaxi, the group’s mobility division, partnered with Al-Futtaim Toyota to introduce 1,300 Toyota Camry hybrids into its fleet, reflecting strategic diversification into sustainability. A Family Ethos of National Loyalty and Optimism What unites father and son is a deep-rooted belief in the potential of the UAE. Abdulla Al Ghurair saw the Union of the Emirates as an opportunity to transform society through infrastructure and education, including building schools and industrial foundations in remote areas before 1971. He believed education was a duty to uplift Arab youth and build capacity for a new nation. Abdul Aziz continues this vision with contemporary tools and reach. He believes in the necessity of developing future-facing skills, digital readiness, and inclusive opportunities for all young people across the Arab world. He sees the