As Norway Chess 2026 gets underway in Oslo, all eyes are once again on the growing rivalry between D. Gukesh and Magnus Carlsen, a clash that has become one of modern chess’s biggest storylines.

Tournament organisers have confirmed the reigning world champion and former world number one will face each other twice during this year’s event, first on May 28 and again on June 5.

The rematch already carries extra intrigue after last year’s dramatic showdown, when Carlsen reacted emotionally after losing to the teenage Indian sensation, a moment that quickly went viral across the sporting world.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Gukesh kept things calm when asked whether he expected another fiery reaction from the Norwegian superstar.

“My job is to play chess. That is within my control,” said the 19-year-old world champion, who turns 20 later this week.

But the Indian grandmaster also admitted that moments of emotion and rivalry are helping chess attract a wider audience globally.

“Chess players generally don’t show a lot of emotions, but when it did happen, a lot of people got attracted to chess,” Gukesh said. 

“I feel that chess players generally expressing more is fun to watch.”

This year’s tournament also marks a major commercial moment for the sport. Earlier this year, Erling Haaland invested in Norway Chess and its new Total Chess World Championship Tour project, another sign of chess crossing deeper into mainstream global sport.

The event has also started building stronger Gulf connections. Last year’s Norway Chess Open featured Rouda Al Serkal, the GCC’s first woman grandmaster, reflecting the UAE’s growing presence in international chess.

The 2026 edition features another elite field in both the Open and Women’s tournaments.

In the Open section, Carlsen opens against Alireza Firouzja, while Gukesh begins his campaign against Vincent Keymer. R Praggnanandhaa will face Wesley So.

The women’s competition includes reigning world champion Ju Wenjun, Koneru Humpy, Anna Muzychuk and rising Indian star Divya Deshmukh.

Running until June 5, Norway Chess continues to position itself as one of the sport’s premier events, blending elite competition, viral rivalries and growing global appeal far beyond the traditional chess audience.

Photo credit: Norway Chess / Michal Walusza

Dubai Police has warned residents against dealing with beggars and itinerant butchers during Eid Al Adha, revealing that authorities arrested 50 people linked to begging and illegal slaughter activities during last year’s holiday period.

Police said some individuals attempt to exploit the festive season and people’s generosity through traditional street begging, online scams and unlicensed slaughter services operating in residential areas.

Brigadier Ali Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the Criminal Phenomena Department at Dubai Police, said anti-begging campaigns are being intensified in cooperation with strategic partners to tackle illegal activities that negatively impact public safety and the emirate’s image.

According to police, begging methods now extend beyond mosques and public markets to include electronic begging, fake donation requests and fraudulent humanitarian appeals shared online.

Authorities warned that some beggars use children, elderly individuals, sick people and people of determination to gain sympathy and collect money illegally.

Dubai Police also urged residents to donate only through officially recognised charities and approved humanitarian organisations to ensure funds reach legitimate causes.

Alongside the anti-begging warning, police cautioned the public against hiring itinerant butchers during Eid Al Adha, citing serious hygiene and public health risks.

Officials said illegal butchers often slaughter animals in unsanitary locations using unsterilised equipment, moved from house to house without proper cleaning or health supervision.

Residents have been urged to report beggars or illegal butchers by calling 901 or through the “Police Eye” feature on the Dubai Police smart app. Cases of online begging and fraud can also be reported through the e-Crime platform.

Abu Dhabi Police has announced full security and traffic readiness ahead of the Eid Al Adha holiday, unveiling a comprehensive plan aimed at ensuring public safety, easing congestion and strengthening emergency response across the emirate during one of the busiest periods of the year.

The force said security and traffic patrols will be intensified across major roads, commercial centres, parks, Eid prayer grounds and public gathering areas expected to see heavy footfall during the holiday.

Police presence will also increase in densely populated neighbourhoods and entertainment destinations across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra to support smoother traffic movement and maintain public safety throughout the celebrations.

Authorities confirmed that the central operations room will remain operational 24/7 to handle emergency calls and coordinate rapid response efforts in cooperation with strategic partners.

Special traffic management plans and diversion scenarios have also been prepared to minimise congestion during Eid activities and events across the emirate.

Police urged motorists to follow traffic regulations, avoid speeding and reckless driving, and maintain safe road behaviour throughout the holiday period.

The force also warned against dangerous celebratory behaviour, including drifting, illegal street racing and reckless stunts near residential areas.

Families were additionally advised to supervise children closely and avoid the use or trade of fireworks due to the serious safety risks associated with improper handling during Eid celebrations.

Abu Dhabi Police said awareness campaigns and field inspections will continue throughout Eid to strengthen community safety and ensure residents and visitors enjoy a safe and secure holiday across the emirates.