Latest from UAE Moments
UAE Moments
12 hours ago
- Politics
- UAE Moments
4 Filipinos Hurt in Iran's Missile Strike on Israel,
At least four Filipinos were injured in Rehovot City, Israel, following a missile attack launched by Iran over the weekend, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed on Sunday, June 15. The explosion struck a public park about 20 kilometers from Tel Aviv, where a group of Filipinos had gathered. It's unclear whether they were outside for leisure or had moved outdoors after hearing warnings of an incoming strike. Twelve other Filipinos were nearby but unharmed. Victims receive urgent help from Philippine Embassy A rapid response team from the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv was deployed immediately. Three victims suffered moderate to critical injuries when a missile struck their residence. One remains in critical condition. 'Our hearts go out to our kababayans affected by this attack,' said Ambassador Aileen Mendiola. 'We are doing everything possible to support them and their families during this time.' The embassy is working closely with Israeli authorities and Filipino community leaders to monitor and assist others possibly affected. Philippine Embassy Extends Assistance to Injured Filipinos Following Missile Strike Tel Aviv, 15 June 2025 — A rapid... Posted by Philippine Embassy in Israel on Sunday, June 15, 2025 Repatriation on standby as Alert Level 3 remains The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said repatriation efforts are ready if needed. While Alert Level 3—voluntary repatriation—is still in place for Israel, any escalation to Alert Level 4, which would require mandatory evacuation, needs DFA approval. Labor attachés and welfare officers are on standby. Filipinos in Israel, especially overseas workers, are advised to stay in touch with the embassy and heed safety advisories. Currently, around 20,000 Filipinos live in Israel, mostly working in caregiving, manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality sectors. Iran contingency plans prepared No Filipinos in Iran have reported injuries or requested aid so far. However, the DFA shared that evacuation plans are already being considered, with Turkmenistan identified as a possible exit route if needed. Emergency hotlines for OFWs Filipinos in conflict zones can contact the following numbers for immediate help: Israel Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv: +972 54 4661188 MWO: +972 50 7622590 OWWA Welfare Officer: +972 50 7156937 Lebanon Philippine Embassy in Beirut: +961 70 858 086 MWO Beirut: +961 79 110 729 Jordan Philippine Embassy: +962 7 7907 7775 / +962 7 7721 9000 Filipinos in the region are urged to stay alert, follow local security instructions, and stay in contact with Philippine officials.
UAE Moments
3 days ago
- UAE Moments
China Travel Tips: Must-Know Cultural Do's & Don'ts
10 Cultural Facts About China You Must Know Before Visiting China is a country with 5,000 years of history, deep traditions, and unique social customs. To avoid awkward moments (or even offense), here are key cultural insights every traveler should know. 1. The Concept of "Face" (面子 – Miànzi) ✅ What It Means: "Face" represents dignity, respect, and social standing . Losing face (丢脸 – Diūliǎn) is a major social faux pas. 📌 How to Avoid Mistakes: Never publicly criticize or embarrass someone. If you receive a compliment, modestly downplay it (e.g., "Oh, I'm not that good"). 2. Gift-Giving Etiquette ✅ Do's & Don'ts: Do give gifts with both hands (a sign of respect). Don't give clocks, umbrellas, or white flowers (associated with funerals). Money in red envelopes (红包 – Hóngbāo) is common for weddings & holidays. 3. Dining Customs – It's Not Just Chopsticks! ✅ Key Rules: Never stick chopsticks upright in rice (resembles funeral incense). The host usually orders for the group—don't insist on choosing dishes. Burping is sometimes acceptable (means the food was good). 4. Tea Culture – More Than Just Drinking ✅ The Right Way to Accept Tea: Tap the table twice with two fingers to thank someone pouring for you. Never fill your own cup first—always serve others before yourself. 5. Superstitions & Lucky Numbers ✅ Lucky vs. Unlucky: 8 (八 – Bā) = Luckiest number (sounds like "wealth"). 4 (四 – Sì) = Avoided (sounds like "death"). Red = Good luck, white/black = Funerals. 6. Personal Space Doesn't Really Exist ✅ What to Expect: Crowded public transport? Normal. People might stand very close in lines or touch your arm while talking. Don't take it personally—it's just cultural. 7. Bargaining Is Expected (In Some Places) ✅ Where to Haggle: Street markets, small shops → Yes. Malls, supermarkets → No. Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate politely. 8. Don't Tip – It's Not a Thing ✅ Why? Tipping can be seen as insulting (implies the worker needs charity). Exception: High-end hotels catering to foreigners. 9. Toilet Paper? Bring Your Own! ✅ Bathroom Reality Check: Many public restrooms don't provide toilet paper . Squat toilets are still common—be prepared! 10. Politics & Sensitive Topics Are Off-Limits ✅ Avoid Discussing: Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, or the Chinese government. The Great Firewall & VPNs (locals know, but don't bring it up). Final Tip: Observe & Adapt Chinese culture values harmony and subtlety. When in doubt, watch how locals act and follow their lead.
UAE Moments
4 days ago
- Business
- UAE Moments
Israel Launches Strikes on Iran's Nuclear Sites
Israel carried out a large-scale airstrike targeting Iran's nuclear facilities and senior military officials early Friday. One of the strikes reportedly killed Hossein Salami, commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), marking a major escalation in already tense Middle East relations. Iranian state media confirmed explosions in Tehran and released footage of smoke rising over the city. The air raids were the first wave of attacks, completed before dawn by dozens of Israeli fighter jets. Attack planned in advance, says Israeli source According to an Israeli security official, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz had approved the attack earlier in the week, scheduling it for Friday. Netanyahu stated that the operation would continue 'as many days as it takes,' while Katz declared a state of emergency and said retaliation from Iran was likely. U.S. distances itself from the operation U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the U.S. was not involved in the strikes. However, he warned Iran not to retaliate against American troops in the region. Two U.S. officials confirmed that President Trump had been briefed by Netanyahu earlier in the week. Soon after, the U.S. started relocating some diplomats and military families from the Middle East as a precaution. Nuclear talks now in doubt The attack comes just days before the U.S. and Iran were scheduled to meet for another round of nuclear talks. The discussions had already stalled over Iran's refusal to halt uranium enrichment. This latest military escalation is likely to delay or derail any progress. Markets react to rising tensions The strikes sent global markets into a tailspin. Oil prices jumped, while U.S. stock futures for all three major indexes dropped Thursday night following the news.
UAE Moments
4 days ago
- Business
- UAE Moments
New UAE Dirham Symbol Is Here—But Are You Using It Right?
The UAE's newly launched dirham symbol isn't just a currency marker—it's a nod to national identity, heritage, and the country's bold future. First introduced in March, the symbol reflects both tradition and progress, designed with exact structure and cultural references in mind. But beyond its sleek design, the real task lies in using it properly. Local authorities have laid out strict rules to guide how and where the symbol should appear across physical and digital platforms. Read More: UAE Central Bank Introduces New Symbol for Dirham Where You Should Use the Dirham Symbol The symbol is expected to appear in places where currency is typically displayed, including: Printed and digital receipts , invoices , and cheques Price tags in stores and online ATMs , POS systems , and financial apps Accounting software and user interface (UI) fields For cheque books, the symbol should come before the number in the 'amount in figures' field, while the word 'Dirhams' should still be spelled out in the 'amount in words' section. On digital platforms like mobile apps or websites, the symbol should appear cleanly formatted, either centered (for single-language use) or in the top-right corner (for bilingual layouts), always with at least 2mm of clear space around it. Where You Shouldn't Use It The dirham symbol may be sleek, but it's not meant for branding. Authorities say it should not appear as a logo or design element, in splash screens, headers, or in place of the full word 'Dirhams' in formal writing. Visual Rules: Dos and Don'ts Dos: Keep the symbol's original shape and direction Place it to the left of numbers Use consistent font size, weight, and contrast Maintain clear space and proportional balance Use either the symbol or 'AED'—not both Don'ts: Don't stretch, distort, or decorate the symbol Don't place it randomly or beside 'AED' Don't reduce visibility with poor contrast or sizing Don't use it as decoration or in logos It's Not Just a Symbol—It's a Statement More than just a mark of currency, the new dirham symbol brings together culture, clarity, and consistency. Whether you're a designer, cashier, or developer, following the dos and don'ts ensures the symbol serves its purpose: clean, recognisable, and unmistakably Emirati.
UAE Moments
7 days ago
- Business
- UAE Moments
Creating Content in UAE? Dh1M Fine If You're Not Registered
From May 29, 2025, a new UAE media law requires individuals and organisations to get a permit or licence from the UAE Media Council (or other relevant authorities) before producing or distributing any media. This includes: Broadcasting on radio, TV, and on-demand platforms Electronic and digital media , such as websites and social media Film screenings , cinema, and arts content Social media advertising by individuals Foreign and local publications , including newspapers, magazines, and books Street and aerial photography for media use Video games and gaming content Operating foreign and local media offices Attempting any of these media activities without a licence starts with a Dh10,000 fine, doubling to Dh40,000 for repeat offences. Read More: First 10 Licensed Finfluencers in UAE Announced Heavy Penalties for Serious Infractions Violating the new law can cost more than just unpaid fines. Offending actions include: Spreading false or misleading news Disrespecting the UAE government or its ruling system Conducting media work without a licence Violators now face penalties of up to Dh1 million for their first offence—and repeat violations can rise even higher, reflecting the UAE's focus on maintaining trustworthy, value-driven media. Why It Matters Officials say the law promotes ethical journalism and encouragement for media to follow clear guidelines on hate speech, privacy, cultural respect, and national unity . It also marks a significant shift from decades-old regulations, updating how the UAE manages all forms of media. Read More: UAE Named Social Media Capital of the World What Creators Should Know All media work , from a personal blog or social media account used for ads to a foreign publication, must be licensed . Hard penalties start with Dh10,000 and can reach Dh1 million for defamation, misinformation, or disrespect to national symbols. Creators, agencies, and production companies operating in or targeting UAE audiences must now register with the UAE Media Council and meet its content and licensing standards. This law significantly shifts how content creators, influencers, and media organisations operate in the UAE. The rules are now tighter, the fines are stiffer, and accountability is clear. For anyone creating content—big or small—in the UAE, this is a wake-up call: get licensed, play by the rules, and keep it respectful.
