Author: Gulf News Week
The dual recall addresses critical defects in throttle body gears and engine bearings that could lead to sudden power loss or fire, according to safety regulators. WASHINGTON – Nissan is issuing a major safety recall affecting 642,698 Rogue SUVs in the United States, tackling two separate mechanical defects that could lead to dangerous outcomes, including engine fires and a sudden loss of drive power. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the recalls on Thursday, outlining two distinct issues impacting the popular compact SUV. What Nissan Will DoTo address both safety concerns, Nissan dealers will reprogram the engine-control software as…
The Filipino trailblazer reflects positively on her WTA 1000 run after a tough defeat to the American, vowing to close the gap to the world’s elite. DUBAI – The scoreline read 6-0, 6-2 in favor of Coco Gauff, but Alexandra Eala left the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships with her head held high and a nation’s heart in her hands. Despite a “demoralising” defeat to the two-time Grand Slam winner on Thursday, the 20-year-old from the Philippines spent her final moments on court signing autographs for the adoring crowd that had packed Dubai Stadium. Her post-match reflections were not of disappointment,…
The Catholic church in Ein Karem was defaced with Hebrew graffiti, the latest in a series of attacks on religious sites in the city. JERUSALEM – Israeli settlers vandalized the Church of the Visitation in the Ein Karem neighborhood of West Jerusalem on Thursday, spraying “revenge” messages and religious slogans on its walls and nearby vehicles, according to Palestinian officials. The Jerusalem Governorate of the Palestinian Authority reported that a group of extremists targeted the Catholic church, which is located in what was a Palestinian village before 1948. Photographs from the scene show red spray-painted graffiti in Hebrew, including the words: “Revenge,”…
The ban, now extended until March 23, continues to force Indian carriers on costly detours, with losses estimated at $1 billion annually. ISLAMABAD – The protracted closure of airspace between Pakistan and India is set to enter its 11th month, with Pakistan issuing a new notice to airmen (NOTAM) on Thursday, extending the ban on Indian aircraft until March 23. Observers anticipate that India will once again reciprocate the measure. The tit-for-tat closure, which began in April 2025 following the Pahalgam terror attack, has severely disrupted flight operations and inflicted significant financial damage, primarily on Indian carriers. According to aviation industry…
From Dh160,000 in hidden fees to bank valuation shocks, here’s what experts say you must know before you start your search. SHARJAH – With studies showing that seven out of ten UAE residents are planning to buy property this year, the market is seeing a surge of first-time buyers. However, real estate experts warn that entering the market without proper preparation can turn a dream home into a financial nightmare. While saving for a down payment is the first hurdle, many new buyers are blindsided by hidden transaction fees, unexpected bank valuations, and ongoing costs that can derail a purchase at…
24K trades at Dh600.75 per gram, up Dh6 from previous session, with spot gold eyeing $5,000 milestone DUBAI – 19 February 2026 – Gold prices in Dubai have surged past the Dh600 per gram threshold, extending gains amid heightened geopolitical tensions that have driven investors toward safe-haven assets, though a resurgent US dollar has capped further upside. Dubai Jewellery Group data showed 24K gold trading at Dh600.75 per gram on Thursday morning, climbing more than Dh6 from yesterday’s opening rate. The precious metal first crossed the psychological barrier on Wednesday evening as global uncertainties mounted. Other variants followed the upward trajectory,…
Secretary of State’s Feb. 28 visit comes as ‘full forces’ for potential action expected by mid-March, officials say WASHINGTON – 19 February 2026 – Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Israel next week to brief Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the latest developments in US-Iran nuclear negotiations, even as the Trump administration rushes military resources to the region and signals potential action against Tehran. Two administration officials confirmed Wednesday that Rubio is expected to meet with Netanyahu on February 28, discussions that will focus on two rounds of indirect talks recently held between American and Iranian officials. The officials…
Rybakina, Gauff and past champions grace Arabian-themed evening ahead of Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships DUBAI – 19 February 2026 – Tennis royalty traded baseline battles for the red carpet this week as the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships hosted its annual WTA Players’ Party, a sparkling pre-tournament tradition that unites sport and glamour under the Gulf night sky. Fresh from her Australian Open triumph, Elena Rybakina headlined the star-studded gathering alongside World No.4 Coco Gauff, as the world’s leading women’s tennis players paused their preparations for a night of celebration and camaraderie. Set within an elegant garden backdrop, the Arabian-chic…
Authorities secure improved accommodation in Makkah and Madinah; second phase of training to start after Eid ISLAMABAD – 19 February 2026 – Pakistan has entered the final phase of preparations for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, with authorities confirming that over 179,000 aspiring pilgrims have received training across 107 cities ahead of their journey to Saudi Arabia. The religious affairs ministry announced Thursday that 183 training workshops have been completed nationwide, equipping pilgrims with essential knowledge of both spiritual rituals and administrative procedures. Officials emphasize that this instruction is particularly crucial given that many Pakistani devotees are travelling abroad for the first…
Golf icon, 50, offers hope of Augusta return despite ongoing back recovery; also weighs 2027 Ryder Cup captaincy SHARJAH – Tiger Woods has delivered a tantalising update for golf fans worldwide, refusing to eliminate the possibility of competing in the 2026 Masters as he continues his latest recovery from back surgery. Speaking at the Genesis Invitational in Pacific Palisades, California – the PGA Tour event he hosts – the 15-time major champion was characteristically coy when asked if April’s trip to Augusta National was off the table. “No,” Woods replied, the single word accompanied by a knowing smile that sent speculation…