Region

RIYADh, Saudi Arabia — Ministers from Syria's transitional government held talks in Saudi Arabia on Thursday on their first foreign visit since they toppled longtime ruler Bashar Assad last month.

"Through this first visit in the history of free Syria, we aspire to open a new, bright page in Syrian-Saudi relations that befits the long shared history between the two countries," interim Foreign Minister Assaad Al Shibani posted on social media after arriving in Riyadh late on Wednesday.

Saudi Arabia severed ties with Assad's government in 2012 and backed Syrian rebels seeking to overthrow him early in the country's civil war.

But last year, Riyadh restored ties with Assad's government and was instrumental in Syria's return to the Arab League, ending its regional isolation.

Now Syria's new leadership is eager for Saudi investment to help rebuild the country's infrastructure, which has been shattered by more than a decade of war.

Shibani was accompanied by Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra and General Intelligence Service chief Anas Khattab, and the three men held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan and Defence Minister Prince Khalid Bin Salman, Saudi state television reported.

Last month, a Saudi delegation met Syria's new leader Ahmed Al Sharaa in Damascus, a source close to the Saudi government told AFP at the time.

Sharaa heads the Islamist Hayat Tahrir Al Sham group that led the rebel offensive that ousted Assad on December 8.

Last week, in an interview with Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television, Sharaa said Saudi Arabia "will certainly have a large role in Syria's future", pointing to "a big investment opportunity for all neighbouring countries".

TEHRAN — Iran held rallies in its major cities on Thursday to mark the fifth anniversary of the assassination of Revolutionary Guards commander Qassem Soleimani in a US drone strike in neighbouring Iraq.

Demonstrators in Tehran chanted "Down with America" and "Down with Israel" as they held up photographs of the slain general.

Commemorations were also held in other cities, including Soleimani's hometown Kerman, state television images showed.

Soleimani was seen as the key sponsor of the so-called "axis of resistance", an alliance of Middle East militant groups that Iran supported to counter Israel and its US ally but which suffered heavy blows last year.

He was killed in a US drone strike at Baghdad airport on January 3, 2020 on orders from then-president Donald Trump, who is about to return to office for a second term.

Soleimani was a popular figure in Iran and foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei called him "commander of hearts" in a post on social media platform X.

"Great commanders are not conquerors of known territories in geography, they are conquerors of hearts, and that is why their conquests remain forever," Baqaei said.

The "axis of resistance" fostered by Soleimani took heavy blows during 2024.

The rule of the Assad clan in Syria, Iran allies for nearly 45 years, collapsed in the face of a lightning offensive by Islamist-led rebels, while both Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah suffered heavy losses at the hands of the Israeli military.

A memorial service for Soleimani in Kerman in January 2024 was the scene of Iran's deadliest attack since 1978. Twin bombs claimed by the Daesh  group killed more than 90 people and wounded hundreds.

SANAA — Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels said Tuesday that they had fired two missiles at Israel, hours after the Israeli military said it had intercepted a projectile launched from the country.

"The first [attack] targeted Ben Gurion Airport" in Tel Aviv, and the second was fired at a power station south of Jerusalem, a Huthi military statement said.

The rebels also said they had attacked the American aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. There was no immediate comment from the US military.

Late on Monday, the Israeli military said it had shot down a missile launched from Yemen before it crossed into Israeli territory.

The Huthis, who control much of war-torn Yemen, have been firing missiles and drones at Israel, and at ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, in what they say is solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

Last week, Israeli fighter jets carried out retaliatory strikes that killed four people at Sanaa international airport, where the World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was waiting for a flight.

DAMASCUS — About half of school-age children in Syria are missing out on education after nearly 14 years of civil war, Save the Children told AFP on Monday, calling for "immediate action".

The overwhelming majority of Syrian children are also in need of immediate humanitarian assistance including food, the charity said, with at least half of them requiring psychological help to overcome war trauma.

"Around 3.7 million children are out of school and they require immediate action to reintegrate them in school," Rasha Muhrez, the charity's Syria director, told AFP in an interview from the capital Damascus, adding "this is more than half of the children at school age".

While Syrians have endured more than a decade of conflict, the rapid rebel offensive that toppled president Bashar al-Assad on December 8 caused further disruption, with the UN reporting more than 700,000 people newly displaced.

"Some of the schools were used as shelters again due to the new wave of displaced people," Muhrez told AFP.

The war, which began in 2011 after Assad's brutal crackdown on anti-government protesters, has devastated Syria's economy and public infrastructure leaving many children vulnerable.

Muhrez said "about 7.5 million children are in need of immediate humanitarian assistance".

"We need to make sure the children can come back to education, to make sure that they have access again to health, to food and that they are protected," Muhrez said.

"Children were deprived of their basic rights including access to education, to healthcare, to protection, to shelter," by the civil war, but also natural disasters and economic crises, she said.

 'Trauma' 

Syria's war spiralled rapidly from 2011 into a major civil conflict that has killed more than 500,000 people and displaced millions.

More than one in four Syrians now live in extreme poverty according to the World Bank, with the deadly February 2023 earthquake bringing more misery.

Many children who grew up during the war have been traumatised by the violence, said Muhrez.

"This had a huge impact, a huge traumatic impact on them, for various reasons, for losses: a parent, a sibling, a friend, a house," she said.

According to Save the Children, around 6.4 million children are in need of psychological help.

Muhrez also warned that "continued coercive measures and sanctions on Syria have the largest impact on the Syrian people themselves".

Syria has been under strict Western sanctions aimed at Assad's government, including from the United States and European Union, since early in the war.

On Sunday, Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa expressed hope that the incoming administration of US President-elect Donald Trump would lift sanctions.

"It's very difficult for us to continue responding to the needs and to reach people in need with limited resources with these restrictive measures," she said.

DUBAI — The iconic annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is accelerating the city’s biggest-ever celebrations into full gear with the highly anticipated launch of the first-ever DSF Auto Season, celebrating automotive culture in grand style from 1 January to 12 January 2025. Providing residents and visitors the chance to experience the best of Dubai’s perfect weather for the season during DSF’s monumental 30th-anniversary edition, citywide adrenaline-fuelled adventures will feature an action-packed calendar of all things automotive - from showcases of the latest craftsmanship to thrilling competitions, exclusive experiences, parades, and engaging meetups to spotlight the world of cars, bikes, speed, and cutting-edge technology.

Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE),  DSF Auto Season will cater to car enthusiasts, families, and adventurers alike with everything from classic car showcases to futuristic concepts, combining breathtaking displays with thrilling experiences. 

Here’s what to expect:

CITYWIDE EVENTS

The Dubai Hills Mall Car Showcase from 1 to 12 January will offer visitors a chance to explore over 90 unique vehicles, ranging from timeless classics to cutting-edge models, displayed in distinct, visually engaging zones. The experience includes a thrilling Gaming Truck Activation with VR automotive games, exclusive giveaways, and a grand prize of a luxury car.

From 3 to 5 January, Circuit De Meydan x DSF Auto Season will deliver a blend of automotive and cycling excitement. The event will feature 20 custom-modified cars by PowerDose alongside bespoke bicycles by Bike On. Guests can witness the exclusive reveal of two Mercedes models, compete in VR gaming, and enjoy competitions for the fastest lap and best-looking bicycle, all set against a backdrop of innovation and adrenaline.

At The Drift Home x DSF Auto Season from 9 to 12 January, Dubai Festival City Mall will host a high-octane drifting competition. For just AED 30, attendees will have the opportunity to experience thrilling rides alongside professional drivers or even test their skills with expert guidance. Visitors will have the chance to experience two adrenaline pumping laps with one of the 50 internationally certified drift drivers for AED 200 per person and learn to drift with a professional trainer of up to 20 minutes for AED 500. Showcasing over 20,000 horsepower and featuring internationally certified drift drivers, this event promises electrifying competitions and action-packed performances across its four-day schedule.

The Mirdif Motor Show will take place on 10 and 11 January at Mirdif City Centre, featuring over 700 vehicles and a variety of activities for all ages. This grand exhibition will be a key highlight of the DSF Auto Season, offering an exciting showcase of power, performance, and design.

The Michelin 24H Dubai will take place on 11 and 12 January at the Dubai Autodrome as part of the prestigious Hankook 24H Series. Fans will witness world-class endurance racing with high-performance cars and elite teams. Highlights include nighttime racing, access to the Fan Zone, garage tours for VIP ticket holders, and the awards ceremony celebrating the winners of both the DSF Auto Season and the 24-hour race.

On 12 January, the season will conclude with the WEB3 Auction at the Dubai Design District MOTB Stage. This exclusive event will showcase rare automobiles and unique automotive NFTs, offering collectors a thrilling opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind items worth over AED 50 million.

PARADES

DSF Auto Season will also feature a series of captivating parades to join and watch out for. The Yalla Dubai x DSF Auto Season on 2 January, starting at Super Car Majlis (SCM), Oman and ending at Hatta Wadi Club, will celebrate the spirit of unity and adventure between the two nations. This stunning convoy of vehicles will journey across a scenic route, offering a symbolic connection between Oman and the UAE. 

The PowerDose Parade will take place on 3 January from 3pm to 4pm, starting at Power Dose in Nad Al Hammar and culminating at DXBike. Featuring a unique line-up of over 20 custom-designed cars valued at more than AED 20 million, the parade will offer a rare opportunity to witness automotive innovation and craftsmanship. At the end point, visitors can interact with the car owners and admire these exceptional vehicles, many of which will be seen in public for the first time. 

The Super Cars Parade, kicking off on 4 January, will showcase an awe-inspiring lineup of the world’s most luxurious and high-performance vehicles. Beginning and ending at Dubai Hills Mall, this spectacular procession will highlight the elegance and power of iconic supercars. Enthusiasts will marvel at the sleek designs and roaring engines as the parade transforms the streets into a dynamic display of automotive excellence. 

The Dubai Ducati Ride 2025 (DDR25) scheduled for 4 January will start at the Wheels of Arabia Ducati Showroom and end at Reform Social & Grill, bringing Ducati riders a city tour featuring Dubai’s iconic landmarks and stunning skylines. At the end point, participants will display their bikes for the public while enjoying Italian food such as pizzas and gelato, as well as Ducati-themed movies and slideshows. The event will feature giveaways, merchandise, and a lucky draw, along with a kid’s corner, creating a family-friendly atmosphere for all attendees. 

On 8 January, the 24H Dubai Parade will showcase the elite cars participating in the 24H endurance race. Starting and ending at the Dubai Autodrome, the parade will offer fans an up-close experience with race teams, drivers, and high-performance vehicles. Visitors can explore the Fan Zone, enjoy automotive-themed activations, and attend the race to witness incredible driving, pit stops, and team strategies. VIP ticket holders will have the exclusive opportunity to tour the garages and interact with the teams, making this a must-see event for motorsport enthusiasts. 

The Mirdif Motor Show Parade, starting and ending at Mirdif City Centre on 10 January, will be part of Dubai’s largest auto exhibition. Featuring over 700 vehicles, including trucks, classic cars, supercars, motorbikes, and police cars, the parade will make its way to the rooftop parking lot, where the main showcase will take place. Family-friendly activities such as remote-control car races, face painting, and safety workshops will ensure a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.

CAFÉ POP-UPS

Adding to the excitement of DSF Auto Season, a series of unique activations and meet-ups will take place at citywide locations, combining automotive flair with dining, entertainment, and community engagement. On 3 January, the Defenders Meet-Up will bring together enthusiasts for a one-of-a-kind gathering in the serene desert landscapes of Al Marmoom, offering a unique opportunity to connect over their shared passion for this iconic vehicle. Meanwhile, Cars & Cookies will roll into Flat12 Café at Port Rashid on 5 January, inviting the car community to showcase their wheels and indulge in the café’s offerings for a day of camaraderie and automotive pride.

The Broncos Meet-Up will take place on 9 January, also at Al Marmoom, where fans of the classic vehicle will unite in a picturesque desert setting for another unforgettable gathering. On 10 January, Block 92 at Jumeirah Sunset Mall will offer visitors a chance to savour premium coffee while entering a draw to win an exclusive Bugatti experience, complete with a personal chauffeur for a day.

Adding another thrilling element, the Bikers Café Meet-Up on 4 January at Jumeirah Street will feature the latest lineup of motorcycles from top manufacturers and dealerships. Attendees can explore a curated selection of apparel and merchandise while connecting with like-minded enthusiasts in a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the passion for motorcycles and the joy of shared experiences.

Visitors can navigate through the endless excitement of this year’s festival through the all-new digital DSF Map - an interactive online guide to explore all of the season’s iconic and only-in-Dubai experiences, festival favourites, ever-popular signature events, and brand-new additions waiting to be discovered across the city. 

UAE residents can get rewarded for keeping up to date on all the DSF news on the Dubai Shopping Festival website. The DSF 30th anniversary competition, running until 12 January, brings a thrilling chance to win an exciting prize worth a whopping AED 30,000 by simply registering details on the DSF website.

DUBAI — The epic 30th anniversary edition of the iconic annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) has been in full gear with a stellar line-up of out-of-this-world enchanting experiences, extraordinary entertainment, and dazzling daily sky spectacles.

Organised by Dubai Festivals & Retail Establishment (DFRE), this citywide celebration will continue to illuminate Dubai’s skies every night with a brand-new drones theme for the twice-daily drone displays at Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR starting from 27 December 2024 to 12 January 2025.

The new theme of celebrating Dubai will feature a stunning new display of visuals, vibrant colours, and dazzling light shows. The excitement will reach its peak with the return of the incredibly popular firework-drones show with pyrotechnics and skydivers on 11 January 2025, while the twice-daily drone shows will close the DSF season on 12 January 2025.

Presented by Emarat, DSF’s spectacular drone shows have become a standout sensation this edition, captivating both residents and visitors alike. Night after night, crowds gather to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle lighting up the skies above Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR.

With two breathtaking displays every evening at 8pm and 10pm, the show continues to enchant audiences from 27 December to 12 January, where it will unveil a brand-new theme, “Celebrating Dubai” and the city’s essence through a dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity.

Set to powerful beats and cutting-edge soundscapes, the mesmerising performance will integrate 2D and 3D drone formations into iconic Dubai landmarks, creating a visual masterpiece that honours the city’s spirit and innovation.

That is not all. The monumental 30th edition of DSF will see the return of the second show of the jaw-dropping firework-drone spectacle on 11 January at Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR, seamlessly blending pyrotechnics with cutting-edge drone technology, accompanied by jaw-dropping skydiving stunts and a phenomenal fireworks finish.

This groundbreaking spectacle will once again dazzle audiences at 8pm, transforming Dubai’s skyline into a canvas of vibrant colours and mesmerising formations in a way that will leave visitors spellbound.

Visitors will also be captivated by the dazzling Dubai Lights installations illuminating Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR. Seamlessly blending artistry with cutting-edge technology, these immersive displays promise to enchant audiences and perfectly complement the extraordinary tech-driven experiences defining this DSF season.

Visitors can navigate through the endless excitement of this year’s festival through the all-new digital DSF Map - an interactive online guide to explore all of the season’s iconic and only-in-Dubai experiences, festival favourites, ever-popular signature events, and brand-new additions waiting to be discovered across the city. 

Residents and visitors across the city can get rewarded for keeping up to date on all the DSF news on the Dubai Shopping Festival website.

The DSF 30th anniversary competition brings a thrilling chance to win an exciting prize worth a whopping AED 30,000 by simply registering their details on the DSF website. The winner will be announced on 12 January 2025. 

Dubai Shopping Festival is supported by Key Partners Dubai Islamic Bank and VISA, and Strategic Partners which include: Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall and The Outlet Village), Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), and talabat.

DAMASCUS — New Syrian leader Ahmed Al Sharaa held talks on Monday with Ukraine's foreign minister, the official news agency SANA reported, weeks after Russian-allied president Bashar al-Assad was ousted from power.

"The leader of the new administration Ahmed Al Sharaa met with a Ukrainian delegation headed by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga," SANA reported, without providing further details.

On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country had sent its first shipment of food aid, 500 tonnes of wheat flour, to Syria.

Despite the war, Ukraine is one of the world's top wheat producers.

Rebels led by Sharaa's Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS) launched an offensive on November 27 that saw them take a number of key cities in quick succession before seizing the capital Damascus 11 days later, sending Assad fleeing to Russia.

But despite Moscow's backing for Assad, Sharaa on Sunday noted the "deep strategic interests between Russia and Syria" in an interview with the Al-Arabiya TV channel.

"All Syria's arms are of Russian origin, and many power plants are managed by Russian experts... We do not want Russia to leave Syria in the way that some wish," Sharaa added.

GAZA STRIP, Palestinian Territories — The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Monday that 27 people were killed in the Palestinian territory in the past 24 hours, taking the overall death toll of the war to 45,541.

The ministry also said in a statement that at least 108,338 people had been wounded in more than 14 months of war between Israel and Hamas, triggered by the Palestinian group's October 7, 2023 attack.

Israel's military had killed approximately 20 Palestinians in a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza's Beit Lahia, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) said it left the area's last major health facility emptied of patients and staff.

Gaza health officials and the WHO said the raid forced the hospital out of service.

Since October 6 this year, Israeli operations in Gaza have focused on the north, where they say their land and air offensive aims to prevent Hamas from regrouping.

Gaza's civil defence agency said an air strike hit a hospital Sunday, killing at least seven people.

"Seven martyrs and several injured people, including critical cases, have been recovered following the Israeli strike on the upper floor of Al-Wafaa Hospital in central Gaza City," a civil defence agency statement said.

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said the hospital was still in use.

"The Al-Wafaa Hospital is partially operational, providing care to patients with physical disabilities," the ministry's director general, Munir Al Barsh, told AFP.

"The hospital had been rehabilitated and was getting ready to receive patients. Had it not been targeted by Israeli shelling today, it would have been ready to fully reopen in the next few days," he said.

The United Nations humanitarian agency, OCHA, said that on Tuesday the Israeli military had also "reportedly entered the Indonesian Hospital, ordering patients, caregivers and staff to evacuate to Gaza city." 

The same day, "military tanks reportedly attacked the third floor of the eastern wing of the Al Awda Hospital, causing panic", following previous air strikes that damaged the facility, OCHA said.