International
The Thursday Times brings the globe into focus, delivering clear, comprehensive reporting on pivotal events shaping nations and communities. With The Thursday Times‘ on-the-ground insights and expert analysis, we connect readers to the stories that matter across borders, helping make sense of our fast-changing world.
Hamas agrees to Trump peace plan with conditions
Hamas has announced conditional agreement to President Trump’s Middle East peace proposal, pledging prisoner exchanges, humanitarian access and a transfer of Gaza administration to an independent Palestinian body.
حماس نے ٹرمپ امن منصوبے کی مشروط منظوری دیدی
حماس نے صدر ٹرمپ کی امن تجویز پر مشروط رضامندی ظاہر کرتے ہوئے کہا ہے کہ وہ قیدیوں کے تبادلے اور غزہ کی انتظامیہ ایک آزاد فلسطینی ادارے کو منتقل کرنے پر تیار ہے، تاہم اس نے واضح کیا ہے کہ غزہ کے مستقبل اور فلسطینی عوام کے حقوق کا تعین قومی اتفاق رائے اور بین الاقوامی قوانین کے مطابق ہونا چاہیے۔
Saudi Arabia eyes BeIN Sports acquisition from Qatar to expand wealth fund sports portfolio
Saudi Arabia is in talks to acquire Qatari broadcaster BeIN Sports, marking a significant potential shift in Middle East sports media. The deal is in line with the Kingdom's growing investment in sports, both regionally and globally.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi rank first globally in ease of entry for skilled talent, says new report
Abu Dhabi and Dubai ranked first globally for ease of entry, driven by open immigration policies that attract top talent. GCC cities thrive in services and innovation, leading economic diversification efforts.
Saudi Aramco CEO says company “bullish” on growing Chinese oil demand
Saudi Aramco CEO Amin Nasser remains optimistic about China’s oil demand amid ongoing energy transition challenges, citing growth in liquid-to-chemical projects. Nasser emphasised the importance of a balanced energy mix for developing countries, where oil demand remains strong.
Pakistan’s stock market soars as KSE100 Index surpasses 86,700 points
The strong bullish trend in the Pakistan Stock Market continues, with the 100 Index gaining over 600 points, crossing the 86,700 points mark. This surge in the stock market is primarily driven by growing investor confidence and economic stability.
Qatar Chamber cuts fees to support businesses, encourage investment
Qatar Chamber has slashed fees for services to encourage local businesses and attract foreign investment. The decision is part of Qatar’s broader strategy to promote economic diversification and strengthen its position as a regional business hub.
UAE pledges support to help Russia address Ukraine conflict during BRICS discussions
MOSCOW (The Thursday Times) — President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Russian President Vladimir Putin held high-level discussions in Moscow...
UAE and Ireland sign extradition, anti-money laundering pacts to combat organised crime
The UAE and Ireland have signed two agreements to strengthen cooperation in fighting organised crime and facilitating extradition. The treaties streamline legal processes and enhance mutual legal assistance, reinforcing their partnership in combating transnational crime.
First Abu Dhabi Bank exceeds Q3 forecasts with AED4.46bn profit despite rising impairments
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) reported a Q3 profit of AED 4.46 billion, exceeding estimates due to higher revenue growth, despite a rise in impairment charges. Total assets grew to AED 1.2 trillion, reinforcing FAB’s position as the largest lender in the UAE.
Qatari economy to grow another 2% before FY2024 comes to a close, says Sheikh Tamim
Before the fiscal year closes, the Qatari economy is projected to grow another 2%, said Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim. He highlighted Qatar's steady economic growth despite post-World Cup challenges, with future growth projected at 4.1% annually by 2025.
UAE non-oil economic growth set to climb by 4% in 2025 as investments accelerate
The UAE’s non-oil sector will drive a projected 4% economic growth in 2025, supported by investment inflows into financial and real estate markets. Simultaneously, a rebound in the oil sector is expected, bolstering overall economic expansion.
Saudi Arabia’s NEOM megaproject using 20% of global steel supply to propel city construction
Neom, the new Saudi mega-city, is utilising 20% of the world’s steel supply to drive construction, becoming a major power-buyer in global construction and logistics. This $500 billion Saudi project is set to redefine future cities.
Dubai Chamber launches 2024 Dubai Startup Guide for entrepreneurs: read it in full here
Dubai’s new 2024 Dubai Startup Guide provides a roadmap for entrepreneurs in the digital economy, offering insights into sectors like fintech, AI, and Web3. Released ahead of Expand North Star 2024, it highlights free zones, accelerators, and government-backed initiatives supporting global startups.
