During discussions in Berlin, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged with leading German corporate executives to foster stronger cross-border investments and trade connections. Emphasizing the UAE’s role as a global logistics hub and its business-friendly regulatory climate, Sheikh Mohamed called on German industrial giants to increase their footprint in Middle Eastern and global markets. The session highlighted emerging commercial prospects stemming from recent bilateral agreements in manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital sectors.
India and Russia have committed to accelerating bilateral trade efforts with a goal of reaching $100 billion by 2030. Officials outlined a strategy to increase trade from its current level of approximately $60 billion, focusing on non-energy sectors such as pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, automotive components, chemicals, and textiles. Efforts are being made to overcome financial and logistical challenges, strengthen settlement systems, and improve supply chain stability. Both governments aim for $50 billion in reciprocal investments across advanced manufacturing, energy, mining, and technology sectors, with 40 joint projects currently under the priority investment mechanism.
Health
A severe lack of trained healthcare workers, operational partners, and financial backing is creating a critical bottleneck in efforts to contain the growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As per technical briefings from the World Health Organization, the outbreak has extended beyond its initial focus in Bunia to involve six northeastern provinces. The current epidemic, caused by the Bundibugyo species of the virus, has recorded more than 6,000 cases and 3,175 deaths, making it the deadliest Ebola outbreak in the country’s history. International agencies highlight that staffing shortages and inadequate funding are hindering Ebola containment efforts, urging global donors to accelerate their financial support.
Travel
Etihad Airways is set to commence year-round flights connecting Abu Dhabi with Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast starting on Oct. 4, 2026. The route will link Zayed International Airport to Red Sea International Airport located in Tabuk Province. Initially, the airline will operate one flight per week, increasing to two flights weekly from Oct. 25. The journey duration is just over three hours, making it the sixth Saudi destination in Etihad’s network.
Technology
Apple has introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, both featuring significant upgrades in camera technology, performance, and battery life. The new devices showcase a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera with a variable aperture, marking a first for the iPhone lineup. Powered by the new A20 Pro chip and equipped with a revamped thermal system, these models are available for preorders starting September 12, with in-store sales beginning September 18 across more than 65 countries and regions.