Imagine a solar storm so powerful it could disrupt our GPS, knock out satellite signals, and even cause blackouts. While this may sound like science fiction, it’s a very real threat. But now, thanks to scientists in the UAE, we have a powerful new line of defence.

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) have developed a revolutionary AI model that can forecast solar wind speeds up to four days in advance. This groundbreaking system is a significant leap for space science, proving to be 45 per cent more accurate than existing methods.

So, how does it work? Instead of analysing complex data, this AI “reads” high-quality images of the sun captured by NASA satellites. By spotting subtle patterns in these images, it can predict when solar activity will increase, giving us a crucial head start.

This early warning system is vital for protecting the technology we rely on every day. It helps safeguard everything from our satellite TV and phone signals to global navigation systems and power grids.

The development of this technology highlights the UAE’s growing role as a leader in scientific innovation, showing that the next big breakthrough in space and technology might just come from right here in Abu Dhabi.

A new pilot programme for autonomous delivery vehicles has been launched in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step in the emirate’s smart mobility strategy.

The initiative, led by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), is a collaboration with tech firm K2 and logistics provider EMX. The pilot program includes the first official license plate issued for a self-driving delivery vehicle in the emirate.

Developed by K2’s subsidiary, Autogo, the “Auto-Delivery” vehicles use advanced AI to navigate and deliver packages. Their initial trial is being conducted in Masdar City, with plans to expand the service across Abu Dhabi.

This programme supports the emirate’s broader goal of ensuring 25 per cent of all transportation trips are smart and sustainable by 2040, building on earlier successes such as the introduction of autonomous taxis.

Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event lived up to its name as the tech giant unveiled on Tuesday its brand-new iPhone 17 lineup, marking the biggest design change in years. Alongside the new iPhones, Apple also introduced the next-generation Apple Watch, upgraded AirPods, and software updates that bring its entire ecosystem closer together.

But the real stars of the show were the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

The All-New iPhone 17 Series

iPhone 17

The entry-level iPhone 17 features a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion for smoother visuals, Ceramic Shield 2 protection, and an always-on display. It runs on the A19 chip, supports Apple Intelligence, and comes with an improved 48MP Fusion dual-camera system for sharper, more versatile photography.

iPhone 17 Air

Slimmer and lighter than ever, the iPhone 17 Air is just 5.6mm thin but built tough with titanium and Ceramic Shield 2. It features a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display, a 48MP Fusion main camera, and a new 18MP Centre Stage selfie camera that supports 4K HDR video. Inside, it runs on the A19 Pro chip for power-packed performance and all-day battery life.

iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max

For those who want the best, the Pro models deliver. Powered by the A19 Pro chip with 12GB RAM, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max bring serious performance gains and support Apple’s most advanced AI features.

The headline feature is the revamped camera system:

• 48MP main sensor for stunning detail
• 8x optical-quality zoom for professional-grade shots
• 8K video recording for creators

The iPhone 17 Pro comes with a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max boasts a massive 6.9-inch screen, making it Apple’s biggest iPhone to date.

Colours and Design

• iPhone 17: Lavender, Mist Blue, Sage, White, Black
• iPhone 17 Air: Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, Sky Blue
• iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max: Deep Blue, Cosmic Orange, Silver

iPhone 17 Prices in the UAE

• iPhone 17 – starting at Dh3,399
• iPhone 17 Air – starting at Dh4,299
• iPhone 17 Pro – starting at Dh4,699
• iPhone 17 Pro Max – starting at Dh5,099

Availability in the UAE

• Pre-orders open: Friday, September 12
• In-store availability: Friday, September 19

The Bottom Line

Apple is calling this its “biggest leap ever for iPhone”, and it’s easy to see why. From the ultra-thin Air to the powerhouse Pro Max, the iPhone 17 series offers something for every kind of user.

For Apple fans in the UAE, the wait is almost over, and this might just be the most tempting upgrade yet.