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.

U.S. adviser commends Shehbaz, Dar for Pakistan’s peace efforts

A senior adviser to President Trump used a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum to publicly praise Pakistan’s role in mediation, regional stability and ongoing peace efforts.
International

Pakistan opens 500 scholarships for Bangladeshi students

The second phase of the Pakistan–Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor is set to launch soon, with Islamabad offering 500 scholarships at leading universities in a move that highlights growing educational and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
International

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...
Emirates

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.
Abu Dhabi

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.
Abu Dhabi

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.
Economy

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.
Economy

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.
Economy

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.
Dubai

UAE authorises AED stablecoin, with dirham-pegged tokens to compete in crypto

The UAE’s Central Bank has approved AED Stablecoin, positioning it as the first regulated dirham-pegged stablecoin, while Tether plans to enter the market with its own version.
Abu Dhabi

UAE president to visit Russia, marking the Emirates’ first BRICS summit

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s visit to Russia strengthens economic and energy ties with President Putin, highlighting the UAE’s growing global influence. The UAE’s debut at the BRICS Summit signals its rising status on the international stage.
Abu Dhabi

Emirati, Saudi institutions lead Gulf university rankings with AI innovation and inclusivity

Universities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia have emerged as the top institutions in the Arab world, led by King Fahd University, with a focus on AI and inclusivity.
Dhahran

Putin stresses need for independent Palestine, invites Palestine to Kazan BRICS summit

Putin reaffirmed Russia’s support for a two-state solution to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict, stressing the need for a full-fledged Palestinian state. He criticised the dissolution of the Middle East Quartet and highlighted the deeper historical and spiritual aspects of the conflict.
International

Putin welcomes Saudi mediation in Russia-Ukraine peace talks

Putin expresses openness to Saudi Arabia hosting peace talks with Ukraine but insists negotiations must resume based on the 2022 Istanbul agreement. The talks depend on Ukraine lifting its ban on dealing with Russia.
International