February 16, 2026

First Solar Eclipse of 2026 Brings 'Ring of Fire' but Misses UAE Sky

On February 17, 2026, the world will see an annular solar eclipse, showcasing a brilliant 'ring of fire.' The eclipse won't be visible in the UAE, but live streams from Antarctica will bring the spectacle to your screen.

February 16, 2026

Hong Kong Driver Charged 7 Times More Than Advertised for Parking, Consumer Council Warns

Hong Kong's Consumer Council warns about unclear parking rates after a driver was charged HK$1,210 instead of the HK$145 advertised. Complaints about parking services hit 120 in 2025, showing ongoing issues.

February 16, 2026

Obama Confirms Aliens Exist but Denies Area 51 Holds Them

Barack Obama says aliens are real but rules out their presence in Area 51. He jokes about wanting to find out about aliens when he became president.

February 16, 2026

WhatsApp Web Rolls Out Voice and Video Calls Globally; UAE Users Still Blocked

WhatsApp Web now supports voice and video calls worldwide without needing an app. But UAE users are still blocked due to strict local internet call rules. Alternatives like BOTIM remain popular in UAE.

February 16, 2026

Saudi Schools Adjust Timings for Ramadan With Later Starts and Shorter Periods

As Ramadan nears, Saudi schools set new start times between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. to ease fasting. Adult classes move to evenings and lessons are shortened for a smooth academic month.

February 16, 2026

Hongkongers Make 1.4 Million Outbound Trips Ahead of Lunar New Year, Up 21.6%

Hongkongers took nearly 1.4 million outbound trips before Lunar New Year, a 21.6% jump from last year, thanks to longer holidays and the Valentine's Day holiday overlap.

February 16, 2026

US Airlifts Mini Nuclear Reactor for First Time Using C-17 Globemaster III

The US has airlifted a miniature nuclear reactor using a C-17 aircraft for the first time. This move shows new potential for fast, flexible nuclear energy deployment worldwide.

February 16, 2026

Chinese Families Shun Pre-Made Meals After Lunar New Year Food Scandal

Chinese families are steering clear of pre-made meals this Lunar New Year after a food fight between a star influencer and a restaurant chain hit reunion dinner tables. Many prefer quality, saying pre-made dishes feel cheap and unrefined.

February 16, 2026

Australian Police Arrest Man in Queensland After Egyptian Museum Heist

Australian police caught a man accused of stealing Egyptian artefacts from the Abbey Museum in Caboolture, Queensland. Most items were recovered except a 2,600-year-old wooden cat believed to be from ancient Egypt's 26th dynasty.

February 16, 2026

Hong Kong's Year of the Horse Night Parade Lights Up Tsim Sha Tsui

Hong Kong launches the Year of the Horse with its famous night parade on Tuesday. Over 60 countries join in, starting with a lively street party at 6pm and parade at 8pm in Tsim Sha Tsui.