By Rafiq Vayani MUSCAT: SalamAir, Oman’s Low-Cost Carrier, has announced that ticket sales are now open for its new direct flights between Muscat and Damascus, Syria, further expanding its Middle East network and enhancing regional air connectivity.  The first flight on the Muscat–Damascus route is scheduled to operate on 02 May, with conveniently timed services operating twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Damascus, one of the oldest …

News Desk KARACHI: Entrance tests for admission to the PhD programs for the year 2025 (second intake) were held on Sunday morning at the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi. According to a spokesperson for ICCBS, University of Karachi, dozens of candidates appeared in the test, which commenced at 10:00 a.m. and concluded at 12:00 …

News Desk DUBAI: A young Filipina, who faced years of suffering and social hurdles due to a rare skull defect located behind her right eye, has received a new chance at life following a pioneering surgery at Medcare Hospital Sharjah. The 25-year-old, who journeyed from Iraq in search of hope after exhausting all other options, is now recovering without pain …

Aalmi Mushaira In the Memory of Benazir Bhutto Captivates the Audience Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, literary activities remained at their peak on the third day of the four-day 18th Aalmi Urdu Conference 2025 – Jashan-e-Pakistan. A total of 22 sessions were held, including the launch of eight books, sessions with Tehzeeb Hafi and Umair Najmi, and an Aalmi Mushaira …

News Desk KARACHI: Pakistan is confronting growing water scarcity, climate variability, and increasing pressure on its agricultural systems. Despite the scale of these challenges, the complexity of water governance, infrastructure, and climate risks often remains underreported or insufficiently understood by the wider public. Strengthening informed and evidence-based journalism is therefore critical to improving public awareness and supporting sound policy discourse. …

KARACHI: In another move to bolster demand for the national grid, K-Electric (KE) and Pak Suzuki Motor Company Ltd. entered into an agreement under which a dedicated 132 kV grid station will be constructed at the auto manufacturer’s facility in Karachi. This initiative will ensure reliable and efficient power supply of up to 20 MW, supporting Pak Suzuki’s growing production …

News Desk DUBAI: His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), received Ken Xie, Founder, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer of Fortinet, a global pioneer in integrated and automated cybersecurity solutions. The meeting explored advanced areas of cooperation to strengthen cybersecurity resilience and accelerate digital transformation in Dubai and across …

DUBAI: As the UAE’s luxury travel market reached an estimated USD 16.66 billion in 2024, a clear shift is taking place at the upper end of the sector. For today’s affluent travellers, luxury is no longer defined by the destination alone, but by how seamlessly the journey unfolds. Taylor Travel Management Group, a global provider of bespoke travel solutions, continues …

KARACHI: Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi inaugurated the four-day “18th Aalmi Urdu Conference 2025 – Jashan-e-Pakistan.” Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest, while President Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah warmly welcomed all the guests.The opening ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem, after which a show …

News Desk ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has contributed to financing a strategic project to supply the city of Kiffa and surrounding region in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania with potable water. The project is among the largest initiatives aimed at strengthening water security and addressing the growing demand for water in the Assaba and Guidimaka regions. The …