As the Indian Premier League (IPL) prepares for a return, most international cricket players are having to go through several travel permissions and last-minute approvals as they plan to return to India to finish the tournament. However, this is not the case, Marco Jansen.

The South African fast bowler has stationed himself in Dubai, using the break to stay close to the action, just a short flight from India. While uncertainty looms for many players, Jansen is all fired up as his team Punjab Kings, gears up for the league’s crucial final phase.

The BCCI is reportedly working to restart the IPL as early as the coming weekend, around May 15, pending final government clearance. With logistics in motion, the focus has shifted to recalling overseas players and coaching staff, many of whom had returned home during the brief suspension.

Among those staying committed to the cause is Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting. The former Australian captain was en route to Australia but made a sudden U-turn, deboarding his flight after learning of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. He chose to remain in India and has since been encouraging the franchise’s international players to return.

“Soon after he learnt of the ceasefire, Ricky got off the plane. That shows his terrific character and commitment to the team,” said Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon told media sources. 

“We’re hopeful all our overseas players — Marco Jansen, Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Xavier Bartlett — will be available when the IPL restarts, which should be very soon.”

While the four Australians, Stoinis, Inglis, Aaron Hardie, and Bartlett, flew back to Australia, in contrast, Jansen and Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai opted to remain in Dubai, avoiding travel delays and keeping themselves ready for a quick call-up.

Punjab Kings are also awaiting an update on Australian all-rounder Michael Owen, who was recently playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) before its postponement. Owen is currently in Dubai, though his clearance paperwork is still in progress.

With 15 points from 11 matches, Punjab Kings are placed third on the IPL table and remain in strong contention for the playoffs. The franchise has three league-stage matches remaining. It also awaits a decision from the BCCI regarding its abandoned match against Delhi Capitals on May 8, which was halted due to security concerns with Punjab at 122 for one in the 11th over.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has been postponed indefinitely, after earlier plans to move the tournament to Dubai were scrapped. The final eight matches of PSL were scheduled to be held in the Emirates.

At a time when digital platforms are shaping opinions and cultures at lightning speed, the UAE is drawing a clear line, one that embraces modern innovation while staying rooted in national identity and values.

This vision was at the heart of conversations at the Arab Media Forum in Kuwait, where the UAE was honoured as the Guest of Honour. Among the key voices was Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, who shared the country’s latest efforts to build a future-ready media environment.

“Our goal is to create a responsible, competitive media landscape that reflects who we are as a nation, while staying in step with global trends,” said Al Shehhi in a statement.

At the core of this effort is a comprehensive legislative roadmap that includes a new media law, executive regulations, and more policies on the way. But these are not just about control—they’re about empowerment. Designed to attract local and international investment, these measures also support content that is ethical, high-quality, and aligned with the UAE’s cultural values.

For the UAE, media is more than just news or entertainment—it’s a strategic sector with global potential.

Supporting Talent in a Fast-Changing World

Beyond laws and policies, the UAE is also investing in its people, especially its youth. With technology evolving rapidly, Al Shehhi stressed the importance of preparing the next generation of Emirati media professionals to meet new demands.

One major initiative is the Media Apprenticeship Programme, launched under the Nafis programme in partnership with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council. This hands-on training targets recent graduates, university students, and working professionals looking to upgrade their skills in a media world increasingly powered by artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and advanced digital tools.

“The future of our media industry lies in the hands of our young people,” said Al Shehhi. “We’re equipping them not just with tools, but with a mindset that balances creativity, responsibility, and innovation.”

Setting Standards for a Digital World

The UAE Media Council has also rolled out new content guidelines to ensure media, both traditional and digital, meet quality and ethical standards. These cover everything from protecting individual rights to ensuring age-appropriate content, acting as a moral compass in a digital landscape that often lacks clear boundaries.

Dubai Police have issued a strong warning to jet ski rental companies and users after a major inspection at Fishing Harbour 3 uncovered multiple safety and licensing violations. The Ports Police Station confiscated 32 unfit jet skis and recorded 39 violations during the campaign, which is part of a broader effort to ensure marine safety and regulate rental practices. Offenders face fines of up to Dh5,000.

Fines of up to Dh5,000 can be issued for using unlicensed or unsafe watercraft, operating with expired licences, or obstructing inspectors. Officials stressed that failure to follow marine safety rules can put lives at risk and result in serious penalties.

The Ports Police Station launched the campaign to make sure jet ski businesses are following safety rules and rental procedures properly. Some watercraft were seized for being damaged, involved in past accidents, or unfit for use.

Brigadier Dr Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi, Director of the Ports Police Station, said the move is part of wider efforts to keep Dubai’s waters safe for residents and tourists.

Common Violations Included:

• Failing to maintain or check jet skis regularly
• Missing or unclear rental contracts
• Lack of digital documentation
• Operating in restricted areas

Fines and Penalties:

• Dh5,000 for using an unlicensed or unsafe watercraft
• Dh1,000 for expired licences
• Dh5,000 for blocking inspectors during checks

Brigadier Al Suwaidi reminded all rental firms to ensure their jet skis are safe, well-maintained, and operated according to the law. He also called for clear contracts and strict safety checks before and after every rental.