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GCL: Ganges win despite Anand’s loss to Carlsen

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The second day of the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League witnessed the debut of Magnus Carlsen, the strongest chess player in the world, as his team SG Alpine Warriors experienced mixed fortunes while playing two matches for the day at Le Meridien hotel, Dubai.

The lead player for Warriors, Carlsen played his first game against Ian Nepomniachtchi, a two-time challenger for the world crown, of Balan Alaskan Knights before taking on former five-time world champion Vishwanathan Anand. Despite holding the white advantage and beating Anand on the first board, the Warriors lost to Anand’s Ganges Grandmasters as the two renewed their old, arch rivalry.

Carlsen got the bragging rights again over Anand, the man he beat in 2013 to claim the title of world champion for the first time. Carlsen seized early initiative, gaining an extra pawn and more initiative, for a better position. Anand gradually fell into time trouble.

Magnus Carlsen, right, shakes hands after his win over Vishwanathan Anand. Global Chess League

After an exchange of heavy pieces, Carlsen ended up in a significantly better position, and Anand had to resign. “There’s always a special touch when we play”, said Anand post-match.

“It was good to play Vishy but right now I am more concerned about my team”, Carlsen added. And he was right. Luckily for the Ganges Grandmasters, they bounced back with victories on boards two and five.

Richard Rapport convincingly defeated GM Gukesh, while Bela Khotenashvili triumphed over Elisabeth Paehtz. With the remaining three games ending in draws, despite their loss on board one, the Ganges Grandmasters crushed the SG Alpine Warriors with a final score of 11 to 6.

Earlier, the day started with Warriors winning 9 to 7 against the Knights. Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi settled for a quick draw, which was not the case for the rest of the games. The Knights’s Teimour Radjabov won as black, earning them four crucial points. Fortunately for the Warriors, they made a comeback with two victories, securing six points.

After draws on two other boards the result was 8-6 for Warriors. Everything was hanging on the last game between Indian chess hope Gukesh D who was up against Nodirbek Abdusattorov, the 2021 rapid world champion. Abdusattorov made a strong push from the early stages, but Gukesh managed to hold his ground, ensuring his team’s victory with a final score of 9-7.

“I had a small edge but it was largely even through. I wanted to play a more interesting game but this one went the way it did,” said Carlsen who also noted that he is excited to be taking part in this event which is more dynamic and different to most others in chess.

In the second match of the day, Chingari Gulf Titans took on Triveni Continental Kings in white with both teams seeking their first win. It started well for the Titans whose players managed to create stronger positions and take initiative in the match.

In the duel of the prodigies, Nihal Sarin scored an impressive victory against Jonas Buhl Bjere, setting the Titans off to a good start. However, following a mistake in a tense game, Daniil Dubov allowed Wei Yi to score as black, as the Kings made a comeback in style. With four other games ending in a draw, Yi’s victory was crucial to secure them an overall edge of 8:7 in the match.

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Pakistani Embassy in UAE to close for Eid and Pakistan Day, here’s when services resume

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March 17, 2026

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The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi has announced a temporary closure in observance of Eid al-Fitr and Pakistan Day.

According to the embassy, operations will be suspended from Thursday, March 19, to Monday, March 23, 2026, allowing staff and the community to observe both important occasions.

Eid dates to be confirmed

Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on March 19 or March 20 in the UAE, depending on the official sighting of the crescent moon, which determines the start of the new month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

Plan ahead

Residents requiring consular services are advised to complete their transactions in advance to avoid inconvenience during the closure period.

The announcement ensures clarity for the Pakistani community in the UAE, helping residents plan ahead during the upcoming holiday period.


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UAE travel update: Step-by-step guide to rebook your flydubai flight amid schedule changes

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1 hour ago

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March 17, 2026

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With flydubai gradually resuming operations after recent disruptions, many travellers may need to adjust their plans. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you rebook your flight or request a refund smoothly.

Who is eligible?

If you had a booking for travel between February 28 and March 31, you can:

  • Rebook your flight within 30 days of your original travel date
  • Cancel for a full refund or travel voucher
  • Make changes without any penalties

How to rebook your flight

1. Check your flight status first
Before making any changes, visit the airline’s official website (https://www.flydubai.com/) and check if your flight is:

  • Cancelled
  • Delayed
  • Still operating

2. Go to “manage booking”
Log in using your:

  • Booking reference number
  • Last name

This section lets you view and modify your booking

3. Choose your option
Depending on your situation, you can:

  • Select a new travel date (within 30 days)
  • Keep the same destination with no extra charges
  • Opt for a travel voucher or full refund if plans change

4. Confirm changes
Once you’ve selected your new flight:

  • Review updated details
  • Confirm the booking
  • Save your new itinerary

 Important tips

  • Do not go to the airport unless your flight is confirmed
  • Keep your contact details updated to receive alerts
  • Monitor your email/SMS for updates from flydubai

When to contact support

Reach out to flydubai if:

  • You didn’t receive a notification
  • You face issues rebooking online
  • Your itinerary involves multiple connections

The rebooking process is designed to be flexible and hassle-free, giving passengers the freedom to adjust plans without stress. Staying informed and acting early will help ensure a smooth travel experience.


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Eid in UAE: Philippine missions announce holiday closure, emergency services to remain available

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5 hours ago

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March 17, 2026

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The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai have announced the temporary closure of their offices on Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, in observance of Eid Al Fitr.

Despite the holiday closure, both missions reassured the public that essential assistance services will remain available, particularly for urgent cases. The embassy confirmed that its Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) section will continue operating to support Filipinos in need during this period.

Emergency Support Remains Accessible

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and other nationals requiring immediate assistance can reach out through dedicated hotlines:

Abu Dhabi – Embassy Contacts:

  • ATN (OFWs): +971 56 270 9157
  • ATN (non-OFWs): +971 50 443 8003
  • Overseas Workers Welfare Administration: +971 54 557 2121
  • Contract Verification: +971 54 725 8482
  • Consular Concerns: +971 50 813 7836

Dubai – Consulate Contacts:

  • Consular Services (passport, notarial, civil registry): +971 4 220 7800
  • ATN (non-OFWs): +971 56 501 5756
  • Migrant Workers Office: +971 50 652 6626 / +971 56 353 5558

The consulate also confirmed that emergency assistance will remain accessible via designated hotlines throughout the closure.

Normal operations at both Philippine missions will resume on Monday, March 23, ensuring services return promptly after the break.

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