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Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Major airports across the Gulf and wider Middle East continued to experience widespread flight cancellations and operational standstills as the airspace turmoil triggered by intensified military strikes on Iran extended into Monday. Key civil aviation hubs, including Dubai International, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International and Doha’s Hamad International, remained shut or under severe restrictions, disrupting global air traffic flows and stranding tens of thousands […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The Asian Football Confederation has postponed a series of high-profile continental club fixtures in the West Region, including the coveted match between Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi club Al Nassr and Emirati side Al Wasl that was due to be played in Dubai this week, as escalating tensions in the Middle East disrupt sporting calendars. The governing body announced that first-leg ties in the AFC […]

A prominent XRP investor has publicly defended an ambitious $31 price projection for Ripple’s XRP token, arguing that long-term technical indicators and structural shifts in the digital-asset market could propel the cryptocurrency into a new valuation range. The projection, which has circulated widely across trading forums and social media platforms, suggests XRP may be approaching what chart analysts describe as a “springboard” formation. Supporters of the view […]

Belgian special forces, with backing from French naval units, have boarded and seized an oil tanker believed to be part of Russia’s clandestine “shadow fleet” in a maritime security operation in the North Sea. The vessel, identified by prosecutors and sanctions monitors as the Ethera, was intercepted in Belgium’s exclusive economic zone and is being escorted to the port of Zeebrugge for formal seizure and criminal investigation, […]

Huawei is set to announce an open-source project centred on its A2A-T software, a move designed to accelerate the adoption of agent-to-agent communication standards across enterprise and industrial ecosystems. The Shenzhen-based technology group has indicated that the A2A-T framework will be made available to developers and research institutions under an open governance model, allowing external contributors to refine and extend the protocol stack. The initiative is positioned […]

Fears of a widening war gripped capitals across the Middle East after United States and Israeli forces carried out coordinated strikes on Iranian military infrastructure, prompting sharp warnings from Tehran and renewed anxiety over global security and energy markets. Confusion spread further after unverified claims circulated online about the fate of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Authorities in Tehran moved to dismiss speculation about his death, […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai A series of powerful explosions shook major Gulf cities, including Dubai, Manama and Doha, as Iran broadened its military response following a coordinated offensive by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets. The strikes triggered widespread airspace closures, significant disruptions in civilian life and travel, and drew sharp condemnations from regional capitals warning of deepening instability. Missiles and drones launched by Iran […]

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Arabian Post Staff -Dubai State television in Tehran has confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei after a large-scale military offensive by the United States and Israel that struck multiple targets across Iran’s territory. The announcement marked a dramatic turn in the months-long escalation between Tehran and its adversaries, unfolding as Iranian officials declared a period of national mourning and vowed to continue counter-attacks against […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai A sweeping emergency safety message was sent to millions across the United Arab Emirates telling citizens, residents and visitors to stay indoors and await official guidance after ballistic threats were detected over the Gulf state. National authorities stressed that the safety and security of all in the federation remain the highest priority and said systems to protect the public are fully operational within […]

Abu Dhabi is preparing to export increased volumes of its flagship Murban crude for April delivery as part of a broader effort by Gulf producers to strengthen supply ahead of a pivotal OPEC+ gathering and amidst mounting geopolitical uncertainties. The state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company has offered additional barrels to its partners in the onshore concession that produces the light, low-sulphur grade, traders said. It remains […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai President Donald Trump announced early on Saturday that the United States military had launched “major combat operations” in Iran, marking a dramatic escalation in long-running tensions between Washington and Tehran. Trump said the strikes were intended to target what he described as imminent threats posed by the Iranian regime, and declared that American forces were acting to protect the United States, its military […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Metal Park, the integrated downstream metals ecosystem based in Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi, has entered a strategic agreement with Germany’s Frindt Consulting to roll out digital laser cutting services aimed at reshaping fabrication workflows across the Gulf. The collaboration is designed to embed advanced digital platforms into Metal Park’s production network, enabling automated order processing, real-time design optimisation and precision-driven laser cutting […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Fynd, the Mumbai-headquartered AI-native retail technology company backed by Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, has formally entered the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a strategic push to drive unified commerce among leading retailers and enterprise brands. The company’s launch in Riyadh is anchored in partnerships with established local players such as NICE, where its technology is already being used to enhance omnichannel operations, bridging […]

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – In his 2026-27 Budget announced on Wednesday (25 February), Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) outlined areas for comprehensively reinforcing the city’s position as a leading international financial hub.

Despite the complex and ever-changing external environment, Mr Chan noted that Hong Kong’s financial market had performed strongly and the city’s financial system remains robust.

HKSAR’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan (second left), outlines areas for comprehensively reinforcing the city’s position as a leading international financial hub
HKSAR’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan (second left), outlines areas for comprehensively reinforcing the city’s position as a leading international financial hub

In 2025, Hong Kong ranked first globally for funds raised through initial public offerings.

“We will continue to consolidate our existing strengths, tap into emerging fields, strengthen market systems and risk control and deepen financial co-operation in the Greater Bay Area,” Mr Chan said. “By doing so, we will enhance Hong Kong’s role as an international financial centre on all fronts and contribute to the national strategic goal of ‘accelerating China’s development as a financial powerhouse’ “.

With Hong Kong being the world’s largest hub for offshore Renminbi (RMB) business, the Financial Secretary said the city would leverage its unique strengths and proactively align with national development strategies.

For advancing the internationalisation of the RMB, Mr Chan said Hong Kong would facilitate the wider use of RMB in activities such as trade and cross-boundary business; reduce transaction costs; enrich product offerings in the offshore RMB market; improve price discovery in the short-to-medium-term-interest-rate market; and attract high-quality issuers to increase RMB bond issuance in Hong Kong.

In 2025, the stock market delivered a stellar performance. The Hang Seng Index rose by 28 per cent over the year. The daily turnover surged by 90 per cent to a historic high of close to $250 billion (US$32 billion).

Mr Chan said the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) would continue enhancing the securities market, attracting issuers and boosting market efficiency.

“We will also introduce the next stage of reforms, including enhancing the regulatory regime for listed companies, providing specific guidelines for overseas companies seeking secondary listing in Hong Kong, offering more overseas markets as recognised exchanges, and continuing to explore with the market the provision of an over-the-counter trading platform for delisted stocks or those requiring special handling.

“The electronic bond-trading platform will also be launched in the second half of this year, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a global fixed income and currency hub,” he said.

To attract more family offices and funds to set up in Hong Kong, Mr Chan said Hong Kong would enhance the tax regime, including expanding the scope of “fund” to cover specific funds-of-one, as well as classifying digital assets, precious metals, and specified commodities, etc. as qualifying investments eligible for tax concessions.

Regarding the development of digital assets, the Government published the second policy statement for developing Hong Kong into a global hub for digital asset innovation through the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework.

A bill will be introduced this year to establish licensing regimes for, among others, digital asset dealing and custodian service providers.

“We will also explore the adoption of electronic signature for bond issuance documents and the digitalisation of bearer bonds,” Mr Chan said.

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To promote the application of fintech and enhance the efficiency of the asset management market, the CMU OmniClear, a market infrastructure operator established by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, will establish a digital asset platform this year. It will support the issuance and settlement of digital bonds. The platform will also be gradually extended to other digital assets and linked with other tokenisation platforms in the region, consolidating Hong Kong’s leading role in the realm of digital assets.

In order to build an international gold trading market in Hong Kong, Mr Chan said the Government would explore offering tax incentives for eligible institutions conducting gold trading and settlement in Hong Kong; assist the industry in setting up an industry-led trade association to consolidate resources, step up promotion, and foster ties with industry stakeholders from around the world; and help the industry keep abreast of the latest gold market developments, acquire relevant skills and develop a training framework.


Hashtag: #HongKong #BrandHongKong #Budget #International #Financial #Hub





The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers NEW YORK: When Narendra Modi walked into the Knesset and told Israel’s parliament during his visit to Israel on February 25-26, that “peace and stability in West Asia are directly linked to India’s security,” he was doing more than delivering a diplomatic courtesy. He was planting a flag. India, under its […]

The article How Narendra Modi Shattered The Indian Foreign Policy Tradition During Visit To Israel appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

  • Searches on Airbnb by Malaysian travelers in 2025 increased year-on-year by over 200% for check-ins during Ramadan and by nearly 50% for check-ins during Hari Raya.
  • Group travel continues to lead festive travel patterns.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – With Chinese New Year, Ramadan and Hari Raya falling in close succession in early 2026, Malaysians are planning ahead for meaningful reunions and shared celebrations.

Airbnb data shows that searches in 2025 by Malaysian guests for check-ins during Ramadan grew by over 200% year-on-year, reflecting heightened festive travel intent*. Searches during the same period for travel during Hari Raya also grew by nearly 50%**, as families and friends plan trips to reconnect and celebrate together.

Festive travel spreads beyond major cities

While Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Ipoh and Malacca emerged as the most popular domestic destinations during the festive season***, travel demand extended well beyond urban hubs.

Hari Raya saw growing interest in states such as Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Perak, reflecting the enduring balik kampung tradition. Meanwhile, Chinese New Year saw travel dispersed even further afield to East Malaysian destinations including Kuching, Sarawak and Kota Kinabalu, Sabah***.

International travel also peaked during the festive stretch, with Malaysians leveraging public holidays for overseas getaways. Top outbound destinations searched included Tokyo and Osaka in Japan, as well as Perth, Australia.***

Togetherness drives travel behaviour – Group and family travel dominate

Whether travelling within the country or heading overseas, Malaysians continue to centre their celebrations on togetherness and shared moments. Across all three celebrations, group and family stays accounted for an average of over 80% of the searches, underscoring a clear preference for shared travel experiences.****

Searches by Malaysians for entire homes increased by an average of approximately 95% during the festive period– signalling a preference for stays that can comfortably host families and larger groups for family reunion****.

Top searched amenities for this period included pools, washing machines, Wi-Fi, parking and air conditioning, highlighting the practical considerations that shape longer festive stays***.

Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head, India and Southeast Asia, states, “Festive moments in Malaysia are deeply rooted in togetherness. With major celebrations converging this year, we’re seeing travel become an integral part of how Malaysians reconnect, whether returning home for balik kampung, gathering with extended family, or planning meaningful getaways. On Airbnb, we’re seeing strong demand for larger homes that allow families and friends to celebrate comfortably, reflecting how shared spaces continue to shape the way people travel during important cultural moments.”

*Based on Airbnb internal data of searches made between Jan-Dec 2025 by Malaysian guests for check-ins between 18-20 February 2026 vs searches made between Jan-Dec 2024 for check-ins between 1-3 March 2025

**Based on Airbnb internal data of searches made between Jan-Dec 2025 by Malaysian guests for check-ins between 20-22 March 2026 vs searches made between Jan-Dec 2024 for check-ins between 30 March – 1 April 2025

***Based on Airbnb internal data of searches made between Jan-Dec 2025 by Malaysian guests for check-ins between 16-18 February 2026 (CNY), 18-20 February 2026 (Ramadan) and 20-22 March 2026 (Hari Raya) vs searches made between Jan-Dec 2024 for check-ins between 28-30 January 2025 (CNY), 1-3 March 2025 (Ramadan) and 30 March-1 April 2025 (Hari Raya)

**** Based on Airbnb internal data of searches by Malaysian guests in 2025 for check-ins between 16-18 February 2026 (CNY), 18-20 February 2026 (Ramadan) and 20-22 March 2026 (Hari Raya) for group, family travel and entire homes.

Hashtag: #Airbnb

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 5 million Hosts who have welcomed 2 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Aerospace Enterprise has agreed to acquire Macquarie AirFinance in an all-cash transaction valued at about $7 billion, marking one of the largest aircraft leasing deals of the year and significantly expanding the Gulf-based lessor’s global footprint. The transaction, which is expected to close in the second half of 2026 subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions, will create a combined fleet of […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has been named Strategic Sustainability Partner for the Arab Media Summit 2026, strengthening the event’s environmental agenda as organisers position the gathering as a platform aligned with the UAE’s long-term climate commitments. Dubai Press Club, which organises the Arab Media Summit, confirmed the partnership ahead of the next edition scheduled to take place in Dubai under the patronage […]

Super Micro Computer Inc. and Abu Dhabi-based EHC Investment have unveiled plans to develop sovereign artificial intelligence data centres in the United Arab Emirates, positioning the Gulf state to expand domestic control over high-performance computing infrastructure amid accelerating demand for AI workloads. The partnership seeks to deliver modular, rapidly deployable data centre facilities designed to support advanced AI training and inference while ensuring data residency within the […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai-based Emirates Gold has marked 34 years in the precious metals industry by outlining plans to deepen its refining capacity, expand international partnerships and strengthen its role in shaping the region’s bullion trade by 2026. Founded in 1992, the company has grown from a local refinery into one of the Middle East’s established minting and gold refining firms, operating from Dubai Multi Commodities […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Lynx is expanding its academies programme as its partnership with Publicis Groupe Middle East enters a fourth year, signalling a sustained push to cultivate creative talent across the region’s communications industry. Organisers of the annual Dubai Lynx Festival, widely regarded as the Middle East and North Africa’s leading platform for creative excellence, confirmed that Publicis Groupe Middle East will continue as the […]

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – EQS Newswire – 26 February 2026 – ASMALLWORLD AG announces a new global collaboration with Miles&Smiles, the frequent flyer programme of Turkish Airlines, as part of its continued expansion of premium airline partnerships. ASMALLWORLD members can now access 35,000, 250,000, and 500,000 Miles&Smiles miles, respectively, further enriching the travel benefits available through the ASMALLWORLD travel ecosystem.

The addition of Miles&Smiles marks an important milestone in ASMALLWORLD’s strategic effort to strengthen its global reach and broaden the geographic diversity of its airline partnerships. With Turkish Airlines’ connectivity across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, ASMALLWORLD members can now enjoy even greater access to new destinations and cultural experiences. This collaboration underscores ASMALLWORLD’s commitment to building partnerships that combine meaningful travel rewards with exceptional service and global accessibility.

“As the airline with the most global destinations, Turkish Airlines represents excellence in connectivity and service, making them an ideal partner for our members,” said Zain Richardson, CEO of ASMALLWORLD. “This collaboration with Miles&Smiles expands our airline portfolio with a programme that shares our commitment to quality and to discovery, while also offering our members greater flexibility and access to an extensive international network.”

A Global Partnership with Turkish Airlines

Founded in 1933 and headquartered in Istanbul, Turkish Airlines is renowned for its award-winning service and one of the most extensive route networks in the world, flying to more countries than any other airline. As a member of the Star Alliance, Turkish Airlines provides seamless connections across six continents, covering over 350 destinations.

ASMALLWORLD members who select Turkish Airlines as their preferred airline partner will receive generous Miles&Smiles miles packages as part of their ASMALLWORLD membership:

These miles can be redeemed for award flights, upgrades, and other exclusive rewards within the Miles&Smiles programme, offering members a premium travel experience from start to finish.

“We are delighted to collaborate with ASMALLWORLD and extend our Miles&Smiles privileges to its distinguished members,” said Nuran Erdağ Haberdar, Vice President, Loyalty Management at Turkish Airlines. “This partnership reflects our commitment to excellence, and we look forward to welcoming ASMALLWORLD guests on board to experience the renowned hospitality of our flag carrier and our extensive global flight network.”

Expanding Premium Travel Benefits

This new partnership reinforces ASMALLWORLD’s commitment to offering its members a choice of leading global airlines and travel partners across multiple regions. By integrating Turkish Airlines into its membership portfolio, ASMALLWORLD continues to strengthen its position as an unparalleled luxury travel ecosystem, combining community, benefits, and exclusive experiences under one brand.

In addition to air miles, ASMALLWORLD members enjoy a curated suite of privileges that include VIP hotel benefits such as room upgrades and hotel credit for spa and food and beverage, elite hotel status, airport lounge access via Priority Pass, elite rental car status with SIXT, and invitations to exclusive global events.

Hashtag: #ASMALLWORLD

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Turkish Airlines

Established in 1933 with a fleet of just five aircraft, Star Alliance member Turkish Airlines has grown into a global carrier operating 523 passenger and cargo aircraft. The airline serves 356 destinations worldwide, including 303 international and 53 domestic routes, across 132 countries. More information about Turkish Airlines can be found on its official website or its social media accounts on , , , and .

The ASMALLWORLD Group

Centred around the ASMALLWORLD social network, the company operates a luxury travel ecosystem that serves discerning travellers and industry partners.

At its core, the ASMALLWORLD social network is the trusted community for modern luxury travellers, offering a platform to connect, share experiences and enjoy a wealth of travel privileges.

ASMALLWORLD members can engage through its app and website, receive travel inspiration, and meet in person at over 800 global ASMALLWORLD events every year, ranging from casual get-togethers, access to exclusive launches, galas, major global sporting events, and larger flagship weekend experiences hosted in iconic destinations such as Saint-Tropez and St. Moritz.

Beyond the social network, the ASMALLWORLD Group extends into bespoke travel planning, luxury hospitality, and strategic B2B collaborations. Through its diverse portfolio, the Group fosters a like-minded global community, curated access to the best luxury travel benefits and lifestyle experiences.

Other businesses in the ASMALLWORLD travel ecosystem include:

ASMALLWORLD Collection, a high-end online hotel booking engine focused on the world’s most admired hotels, offering the unique “ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate,” which allows customers to enjoy exclusive travel benefits at no extra cost.

ASMALLWORLD Bespoke Travel, operates as a high-end travel agency offering personalised travel

curation services, serving as a B2B partner to independent travel advisors while providing direct B2C

experiences to its individual members.

ASMALLWORLD DISCOVERY, part of Global Hotel Alliance alongside 45 leading hotel brands, services independent hotels in providing access to the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty network

ASMALLWORLD Hospitality, a hospitality and management consultancy that supports owners and developers of hospitality assets throughout the different lifecycle stages of their assets, including acquisition, development, operations and exit.

First Class & More, a subscription-based smart luxury travel service that allows members to enjoy luxury travel at insider prices.

The World’s Finest Clubs, the world’s leading nightlife concierge offers its members VIP access to the most exclusive nightlife venues around the world.

Jetbeds, a premier booking platform specialising in affordable Business and First-Class flights, offering exclusive deals, expert advice and personalised service.

For more information, please visit:

www.asmallworldag.com

www.asmallworld.com

www.asmallworldcollection.com

www.asmallworldbespoke.com

www.asmallworlddiscovery.com

www.asmallworldhospitality.com

www.first-class-and-more.de

www.first-class-and-more.com

www.finestclubs.com

www.jetbeds.com

Gold prices firmed in early trade on Thursday as a softer dollar and renewed demand for defensive assets lent support, with investors assessing signals from Washington on tariffs and monitoring diplomatic exchanges between the United States and Iran. Spot gold rose 0.4 per cent to $5,192.28 per ounce by 0500 GMT, extending gains after touching a more than three-week high earlier in the week. US gold futures […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Lu Daopei Medical has joined forces with Florence Nightingale Hospital Group in Turkey to establish what the partners describe as the Middle East and North Africa’s first dedicated CAR-T stem cell therapy centre, targeting severe forms of leukaemia including paediatric cases. The initiative, backed by Investcorp through its China Pre-IPO Healthcare Fund, signals a push to expand advanced cellular immunotherapy beyond traditional hubs […]

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