United Arab Emirates

An oil spill is heading for the coasts of the Emirates following damage to an oil tanker. Experts fear for the fate of marine life and the region’s populations. Desalination plants are also at risk. The conflict casts a shadow of grave uncertainty over the future of the entire region.

At the weekend, the Apostolic Vicar Emeritus of Southern Arabia celebrated a Mass of thanksgiving and farewell. Over 20 years of mission in a land where he has seen the faith grow. Pope Francis’s visit and interfaith dialogue. A Church made up of people who are ‘living stones’.

From Hollywood to Bollywood, and across various streaming platforms, the range of content available in the UAE is increasingly diverse. Amid a varied demographic landscape, movie theatres have become spaces for fostering a sense of belonging, rather than serving merely as commercial venues. Yet, cultural consumption and choices are also influenced by geopolitical tensions, at times leading to the boycotting of certain films.

Addressing an event hosted by the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) in Milan as part of Missionary Month, Bishop Paolo Martinelli spoke about the situation of the religious sisters who remained in Sana'a and Hodeidah, despite the ongoing war and dire conditions. Their work is "essential" and "appreciated by the local population." Meanwhile, fresh fighting broke out between Houthis and pro-Saudi forces.

Bishop Martinelli is bringing it to the parishes of the Vicariate. The eighth centenary of his death is “not a commemoration, but an opportunity” to rediscover a “living legacy.” The Saint of Assisi speaks to “a vibrant Church living among different peoples, cultures and religions in the Arabian Peninsula.”

The emergency landing of a Flydubai flight in Saudi Arabia, likely due to an attempted hijacking by a pilot (an Omani national), has drawn attention to the route that symbolises the new ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. This route has seen rapid growth, even amid Israel’s isolation caused by the war in Gaza.

The bishop of Kalookan is “deeply concerned” about the plight of Philippine workers in a region facing severe crises. Remittances from the diaspora hit a record US$ 35.63 billion in 2025. The prelate also highlights the growing danger posed by the uncontrolled use of artificial intelligence in warfare and issues an appeal to world leaders.

Attacks by Houthis in Yemen have undermined the crown prince’s plan for growth and stability. The Israel-US war has thrown the cooperation model into crisis. The future of a region that has yet to overcome its divisions and rivalries hinges on how these mounting challenges are met.

Algeria has cut diplomatic ties with the UAE, given its ambassador 48 hours to leave the country, and closed its airspace to UAE planes. The Abraham Accords, the Sahel, and Western Sahara have fuelled the rift. For Algerian President Tebboune, “Wherever they set foot, blood flows."

For days Abu Dhabi has turned off the taps to Tehran, in response to the launch of ballistic missiles. More than official channels, what determines the billion-dollar money flows is the "shadow network" that connects the Gulf country to Tehran. The alternative of the "Iraqi model" based on incentives rather than punitive measures.

Zijin Gold International has acquired a minority stake in the Canadian company Allied Gold, which aims to commence mining operations in Kurmuk, in an area of Ethiopia close to the border where the RSF has major logistics centres (and, via Dubai, interests in the gold market).

In addition to oil, museums, exhibitions, and architecture are part of the emirate’s new economic strategy. DCT data indicate a record number of visitors, 26.6 million, last year, up by 19.5 per cent over 2024. This is part of an ambitious shift, from luxury and business to art and major events in a single ecosystem. Saadiyat Island is at the heart of the transformation.