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French astronaut takes photo of Expo 2020 Dubai site from ISS

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French astronaut Thomas Pesquet took a photo of the Expo 2020 Dubai site from the International Space Station (ISS), during his 200-day mission which launched from Florida, US.

During a Q&A session organized by France Pavilion on Friday at Expo 2020 Dubai, Pesquet responded to a number of questions from growing food in zero gravity to installing solar arrays (systems of multiple solar panels) on the International Space System (ISS).

“Before the mission starts, there is a lot of travelling around the world to different space agencies,” Pesquet, who was the first person from France to command the ISS, said of his second mission. “We have to train for every kind of emergency, such as how to deal with a fire, which reacts very differently in zero gravity.”

Not only did he have to be familiar with all the systems in place, but he and his crew of four – NASA astronauts Megan MacArthur and Shane Kimbrough, and Japanese astronaut Aki Hoshide – needed to ensure the maintenance of the ISS. Intense daily physical training was also essential in preparation for zero gravity, which causes muscle loss. But the preparation was worth it, he said. “You move by floating onboard ISS, like you dreamt as a child. It looks like a sci-fi movie or a maze in 3D,” Pesquet added. “You can move up and down – everywhere – so it takes a few days to adjust.”

In their free time, the crew would look through the windows and take time-lapse photos. “It was incredible to admire the beauty unravel in front of us – to see the different colours of deserts and shapes of snow glaciers. It’s amusing to see streets of famous cities. I took a photo of Expo in Dubai,” Pasquet said.

“The wonderful thing about space is that there are no borders,” he added. “We may all be from different countries and cultures but we are all on the same side. ISS is a good example of people from around the world cooperating and working together. And we need to use those values for the future of humanity.”

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Drivers can now clear black points at Mushrif Mall pop-up

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Motorists in Abu Dhabi looking to clear those lingering traffic black points now have a convenient new option, thanks to an initiative by Abu Dhabi Police.

A dedicated pop-up service has been set up at Mushrif Mall, allowing drivers to review and reduce black points on their licences without the hassle of visiting a traffic department office.

When and where

The service is available:

  • April 20 to May 20
  • Daily from 4pm to 10pm
  • First-floor police platform at Mushrif Mall

What drivers can do

Visitors can:

  • Review their traffic records and black points
  • Learn how points are calculated
  • Get guidance on reducing points
  • Explore options like traffic awareness courses (which can remove up to 8 points annually)
  • Receive advice on licence reinstatement if suspended

Focus on safe driving

The initiative aims to make the black-points system more educational rather than punitive, encouraging better driving habits instead of simply penalising motorists.

Drivers nearing the 24-point threshold, which can lead to licence suspension, are especially encouraged to take advantage of the service.

By offering easy access to support and information, authorities hope to promote road safety, awareness, and responsible driving across Abu Dhabi.

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Dubai Metro expansion: 55km line to link DXB with DWC

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Dubai is planning a major upgrade to its transport network with a proposed 55-kilometre Airport Express Metro Line connecting Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

According to reports, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has invited consultants to bid for a contract to study and design the new line, marking a significant step toward improving airport connectivity across the emirate.

Direct airport-to-airport link

The proposed Airport Express Line would run from the existing Red Line station at DXB, pass through key areas such as Al Jaddaf and Al Khail Road, and include a new station at Jumeirah Village Circle before reaching DWC in Jebel Ali.

  • Total length: 55km
  • Planned stations: 5 major stops
  • Two additional branch lines connecting to Business Bay and other key districts

Airport-style facilities on the metro

Passengers could benefit from enhanced travel features, including:

  • Remote airline check-in
  • Baggage drop-off
  • Security screening before reaching the airport

The aim is to create a seamless airport journey, reducing congestion and wait times at terminals.

Part of bigger transport plan

The project aligns with Dubai’s long-term expansion of the Dubai Metro, which is expected to grow to:

  • 64 stations by 2030
  • 140 stations by 2040

It also complements the upcoming Dubai Metro Blue Line, set for completion by 2029, improving connectivity across key residential and business hubs.

Dubai plans to gradually shift operations to DWC starting from 2032, with full expansion expected by around 2057.

Unlike traditional metro extensions, the Airport Express Line is designed as a direct link between two major aviation hubs, while also serving residential and commercial districts along the route.

If completed, it could significantly improve travel efficiency, connectivity, and passenger experience across Dubai.

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Toxic materials found in Flying Tiger brand glasses, UAE warns

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The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has urged consumers to stop using certain drinking glasses sold under the Flying Tiger brand after tests revealed potential health risks. 

Affected products

The warning applies to 220ml glass cups sold during 2024 and 2025, with the following product numbers:

  • 3057450
  • 3060031
  • 3052986
  • 3062993
  • 3055350
  • 3053912

Health risks

According to authorities, laboratory testing found elevated levels of lead and cadmium in the external print on the cups, substances that may pose risks with prolonged exposure.

Consumers are being advised to immediately discontinue use of the affected products and dispose of them safely. 

The ministry said the move is part of its ongoing efforts to monitor markets across the UAE and ensure that all products meet the highest standards of safety and quality.

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