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.

Andy Burnham becomes UK Prime Minister as Starmer resigns

Andy Burnham has become the United Kingdom's 59th Prime Minister, succeeding Keir Starmer after being invited by King Charles III to form a government. The former Manchester mayor, Britain's seventh PM in a decade, promised "a circuit breaker for Britain."
International

Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win 2026 FIFA World Cup

Spain have won the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina, ending a tightly contested final with a decisive breakthrough.
Football

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

How Padel is transforming sports culture in Saudi Arabia

Padel has become a social and athletic sensation among both men and women in Saudi Arabia, with the sport booming thanks to Vision 2030 and the rise of community-driven clubs.
International

Saudi Arabia economy to boost 4.9% next year driven by Vision 2030 reforms, says World Bank

Saudi Arabia’s economy is set for steady growth, says the World Bank, with GDP projected to rise to 4.9% by 2025, supported by Vision 2030 reforms and increasing female labour participation.
Economy

Indian RAW agent Vikash Yadav charged in plot to assassinate Khalistan activist in U.S.

Indian intelligence officer Vikash Yadav has been charged with plotting to kill Sikh activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on U.S. soil, escalating diplomatic tensions between India, the U.S., and Canada.
International

Nakheel signs contracts worth AED 5 billion with Shapoorji, Ginco, UNEC to develop Palm Jebel Ali

Palm Jebel Ali is set to redefine waterfront luxury living in Dubai with over AED 5 billion invested in ultra-luxury villas by Nakheel, featuring 723 exclusive beachfront villas.
Dubai

Debut EU-GCC summit held in Brussels to boost trade, security, diplomatic ties

At the groundbreaking EU-GCC summit, leaders pledged to supercharge trade, energy, and security cooperation, while driving forward innovation and climate action.
Emirates