News
UAE-Germany relations expand through high-level talks, investment and strategic cooperation. During the event, Sheikh Mohamed signed the VIP guestbook at Villa Borsig, highlighting the enduring partnership between the UAE and Germany, built through decades of diplomatic and economic collaboration. Steinmeier also welcomed members of the UAE delegation that accompanied the president, which included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, senior Presidential Court officials, ministers, and other government representatives involved in the visit. This ceremony marked the first-ever state visit to Germany by a UAE president. The official program, running from September 9 to 11, included meetings with top German political leaders. Later, Sheikh Mohamed and Steinmeier discussed bilateral relations and regional and international issues at Villa Borsig, focusing on cooperation between the two nations and diplomatic efforts to promote peace, security, and stability in the Middle East. UAE and Germany bolster strategic alliance The visit also featured discussions between Sheikh Mohamed and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the Federal Chancellery, where both governments announced a Strategic Dialogue aimed at enhancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, established in 2004. This dialogue encompasses security, defense, trade, investment, energy, climate, emerging technology, digitalization, transport, education, and culture. Both sides also endorsed the creation of a German-UAE Investment Council to deepen cooperation between government entities and private sector firms. Economic accords played a major role throughout the broader state visit, with UAE and German companies
Business
Gold prices hold above $4,400 as U.S. inflation data and interest rates stay in focus. Early trading saw the U.S. dollar stay subdued, which boosted dollar-denominated precious metals. A weaker dollar lowers gold’s cost for those purchasing in other currencies. Meanwhile, the benchmark U.S. 10-year Treasury yield remained near 4.84%, maintaining its elevated level. Since gold does not pay interest, fluctuations in bond yields are significant for the metals market. Brent crude also stayed above $100 a barrel after crossing that threshold during the previous session. Market attention was also directed towards two critical U.S. inflation reports. Producer price index data is due at 1230 GMT on Thursday, followed by consumer inflation figures on Friday. The Federal Reserve’s policy meeting is scheduled for September 15 and 16, with inflation remaining a key factor influencing interest-rate decisions. According to CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, there is about a 60% chance that the U.S. will raise rates this month. The current federal funds target range stands at 3.50% to 3.75%. Focus on Inflation Data as Gold Maintains Above $4,400 Wednesday’s trading showed a notable shift from earlier price movements. Spot gold slipped 0.1% to $4,349.44 an ounce at 0040 GMT, but by 1744 GMT, it had risen 1.4% to $4,414.30. December gold futures
Travel
Etihad adds Red Sea International Airport to its growing Saudi Arabia flight network. This route will be operated using an Airbus A320 configured with eight Business Class seats and 150 Economy Class seats. Etihad stated that travelers from across its network can reach the Red Sea with a single connection in Abu Dhabi, including those arriving from the Gulf region and the Indian subcontinent. Tickets are already available on Etihad’s booking platform for travel from the launch date. The route complements existing connections to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina, and Al Qassim within Etihad’s Saudi network.
Sports
Spain sent Portugal out of the FIFA World Cup with a late 1-0 win, ending Ronaldo’s sixth tournament and long pursuit of the title.
Norway reached the FIFA World Cup last eight after a 2-1 win over Brazil, with Haaland scoring twice and Neymar netting late.
Australia exited the FIFA World Cup 2026 after Egypt won 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 Round of 32 draw in Arlington at Dallas Stadium.
Spain kept a clean sheet and advanced from the World Cup Round of 32 after goals by Oyarzabal and Porro ended Austria’s run in Los Angeles.
Mexico reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a 2-0 victory over Ecuador, keeping its unbeaten run and clean-sheet record intact.
Brazil booked a Round of 16 place at World Cup 2026 after Casemiro and Martinelli erased Japan’s first-half lead in Houston from the Round of 32.
Portugal moved to four points in Group K after a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, whose first World Cup campaign remained difficult.
Norway’s 3-2 victory over Senegal put Haaland on four World Cup 2026 goals and sent the team into the Round of 32 from Group I after two wins.
Health
An urgent shortage of trained healthcare workers, operational partners, and financial backing is causing significant delays in controlling the growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. According to technical reports from the World Health Organization, the epidemic has extended beyond its initial center in Bunia to six northeastern provinces. This outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain, has recorded over 6,000 cases and 3,175 deaths, making it the deadliest Ebola epidemic in the country’s history. International agencies highlight that staffing shortages and insufficient funding hinder the Ebola response, urging donors worldwide to expedite financial support.
Technology
Apple has introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, both featuring significant upgrades in camera technology, performance, and battery life. These new devices showcase a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera with a variable aperture, marking a first for the iPhone. Powered by the latest A20 Pro chip and equipped with a redesigned thermal system, they are available for pre-order starting September 12, with retail sales beginning September 18 across more than 65 countries and regions.