Gold prices hit a record high on Wednesday, bolstered by fears of a new trade war between the United States and China after Beijing slapped tariffs on US imports in a response to new US duties on Chinese goods.

Spot gold was up 0.2 per cent at $2,848.69 per ounce, after hitting a record high of $2,853.97 earlier in the session. US gold futures gained 0.2 per cent to $2,879.70.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he is in no hurry to speak to Chinese President Xi Jinping to try to defuse the trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

China imposed targeted tariffs on US imports on Tuesday and put several companies, including Google, on notice for possible sanctions, in a measured response to Trump’s tariffs.

“The next major inflection point for gold is probably the $3,000 figure… China may be more encouraged to keep buying gold for reserves if the trade war escalates,” said Ilya Spivak, head of global macro at Tastylive.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration’s plans for trade tariffs come with inflation risks, three Federal Reserve officials warned on Monday, with one arguing that uncertainty over the price outlook calls for slower interest rate cuts than otherwise.

While gold is considered an inflation hedge, higher interest rates could dampen its appeal among investors.

Key economic data on investors’ radar this week includes the ADP employment report due and the payrolls report on Friday, which could shed more light on the health of the US economy.

“Gold demand ought to be partially supportive for other precious metals but their sensitivity to risk appetite has seen them underperform,” said Spivak.

Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), has commenced its 2025 runway maintenance plan aimed at ensuring safety, efficiency, and operational sustainability at the key regional airport.

The plan, which adheres to international aviation safety standards, is being executed in coordination with the Bahrain Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA).

Eyad Ismaeel, BAC’s acting VP of Facility Management, stated, “This comprehensive runway maintenance plan shows BAC’s commitment to maintaining the highest levels of safety and efficiency at BIA throughout 2025. By adhering to international aviation safety and operational standards, we are not only enhancing BIA’s regional standing but also ensuring a seamless and secure travel experience for all passengers.”

Bahrain airport runway maintenance: What’s involved

The initial phase of the plan includes several crucial maintenance tasks, including rubber removal, friction testing, asphalt patching, runway remarking, shoulder repairs, strip grading, joint sealant and nitoseal applications, as well as airfield ground lighting repairs.

The lighting system will undergo LED upgrades, photometric testing, and manhole dewatering as part of the maintenance.

Survey work is also scheduled to take place at two locations around the runway. In conjunction with the maintenance plan, the Rayya Road expansion project led by the Ministry of Works will include the replacement of the Runway 12L approach lights with LEDs.

BAC emphasised that the 2025 maintenance plan is part of its broader strategy to invest in BIA’s infrastructure, enhancing the airport’s operational efficiency, and ensuring the provision of world-class service to both passengers and airlines.

In a key move to integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence into product development, Nestlé has announced a new partnership with Dubai AI Campus.

The collaboration aims to develop an AI-powered tool that will help Nestlé identify emerging product innovation opportunities.

By analysing consumer trends and providing actionable insights, this AI solution is set to accelerate product development and meet the evolving demands of consumers across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

The partnership was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed during a ceremony at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

The signing ceremony was attended by key members of Nestlé and Dubai International Financial Centre, including Laurent Freixe, Nestlé’s CEO; Remy Ejel, EVP and head of Zone AOA (Asia, Oceania, and Africa), Yasser Abdul Malak, chairman and CEO of Nestlé MENA; Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority; and Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO of DIFC Innovation Hub.

Nestlé, Dubai AI Campus alliance to benefit F&B sector

Malak, expressed excitement over the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to be partnering with Dubai AI Campus to pioneer the use of AI, strengthening our capabilities in anticipating consumer trends and innovating for the future. Dubai’s dynamic business environment, digital and technological leadership, and forward-thinking approach make it an ideal location for this initiative. We look forward to seeing how this AI solution will drive meaningful innovation that benefits our consumers and customers.”

Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO of DIFC Innovation Hub, emphasised Dubai AI Campus’s commitment to fostering innovation in the business and tech sectors: “We are proud to partner with Nestlé to pioneer the use of AI in shaping the future of the food and beverage industry. Dubai AI Campus is dedicated to empowering global corporations by providing cutting-edge infrastructure and fostering innovation. This collaboration reflects our commitment to driving AI-enabled solutions that anticipate consumer trends and deliver transformative value.”

Through this collaboration, Nestlé and Dubai AI Campus aim to leverage artificial intelligence to push the boundaries of innovation and deliver impactful results in the food and beverage industry.

HMD, the brand behind Human Mobile Devices, has just launched a smartphone that aims to deliver a truly personalised experience: the HMD Fusion.

The HMD Fusion features a sleek, industrial-chic design, boasting a durable stainless steel-reinforced plastic body.

Its minimalistic look is a nod to Gen Z’s love for raw, grunge-inspired aesthetics, and the clear Casual Outfit included in the box allows the phone’s innovative design to shine through. If you prefer a little more flair, there are multiple Casual Outfits available in various colours to add a personal touch, though they’re sold separately.

The body feels solid in hand, and the fact that it’s designed with repairability in mind is a huge plus for sustainability enthusiasts.

The phone is part of HMD’s “Fix It Yourself” initiative, which allows users to easily swap out parts like the screen, battery, and charging port. This forward-thinking approach not only saves you money but also reduces e-waste, making the phone a step forward in sustainable tech.

Change the “outfit”

Customisation is where the HMD Fusion truly shines. This isn’t just a phone — it’s a canvas. The standout feature is the Smart Outfits, which allow users to transform the phone’s hardware, software and even performance with ease.

These outfits are attached via six specialised pins, making it super simple to change things up depending on your needs or mood.

The Flashy Outfit, which comes free with the phone (valued at Dhs179), is perfect for selfie lovers.

The foldable LED-flash ring is a cool addition, providing the perfect lighting for your selfies with adjustable brightness and colour options through the camera app. Whether you’re after a soft natural glow or a bold, colourful lighting effect, it takes your selfie game to the next level.

Looking ahead, the upcoming Gaming Outfit is another exciting addition. This outfit transforms your HMD Fusion into a portable gaming console, complete with gaming buttons and joysticks, giving you a truly immersive gaming experience.

Plus, if you pick up the Gaming Outfit, you’ll get two months of free cloud gaming with Blacknut, which includes access to over 500 titles. This is perfect for gamers who want to turn their smartphone into a powerhouse of entertainment.

When it comes to cameras, the HMD Fusion is nothing short of impressive. The phone is equipped with a 108MP dual rear camera setup, designed to perform well in various lighting conditions and capture stunning details, whether you’re snapping photos during the day or at night.

The camera excels at speed too, ensuring that you never miss a moment.

For the selfie kings and queens

For selfies, the 50MP front camera will not disappoint. It includes features like Selfie Gestures and Selfie Slow-Mo, giving you plenty of options for creative shots. Whether you’re taking a quick selfie or an action-packed slow-motion video, the HMD Fusion ensures you look your best in every frame.

In an age where digital burnout is becoming a real issue, the HMD Fusion introduces Detox Mode. This feature allows you to take a break from social media and constant notifications by blocking specific apps and contacts. If you’re looking to regain some control over your phone usage, Detox Mode offers a simple, customizable way to disconnect and focus on what truly matters.

The HMD Fusion packs powerful performance under the hood, offering a smooth, lag-free experience whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or streaming. The phone’s versatility and ease of customisation make it a true standout in the crowded smartphone market.

The ability to switch outfits to match your needs — whether you’re in the mood for gaming, a photoshoot, or just a plain old phone call — adds an element of fun and functionality that you won’t find in many other devices.

HMD has clearly put a lot of thought into the environmental impact of the Fusion. The focus on repairability, alongside sustainable manufacturing practices, is a welcome move in a market where device longevity is often an afterthought.

The easy-to-repair design and the company’s emphasis on reusing parts means that this device isn’t just built for performance, but also for a longer life cycle.

The HMD Fusion caters to users who crave personalisation and creativity, with its interchangeable outfits and customisable features.

The powerful cameras, durable design, and forward-thinking sustainability initiatives make it an appealing choice for anyone looking for a phone that’s as unique as they are.

Value for money

At Dhs1099, it strikes a perfect balance between affordability and innovation. Whether you’re a selfie enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who simply values a phone that can keep up with your style and needs, the HMD Fusion is a device worth considering.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the launch of several new entities and initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of UAE residents.

According to a Dubai Media Office report, the approvals were made during the UAE Cabinet’s meeting, held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi.

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The list of initiatives and developments approved includes:

National cyber security strategy

Sheikh Mohammed approved the National Cybersecurity Strategy to strengthen the country’s cybersecurity framework and ensure a secure digital environment to protect national assets and support future progress.

The strategy focuses on the following key pillars:

• Governance
• Protection
• Innovation
• Establishing and building partnerships

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UAE strategy for Talent Attraction and Retention 2031

A new phase of this strategy will be launched, with the goal of attracting and retaining top global talent across key sectors in the UAE.

Key sectors include:

• Aviation
• Advanced industries
• Financial services
• Food and water technology
• Creative economy
• Technology
• Renewable energy
• Healthcare and biotechnology
• Logistics

DID YOU KNOW?

A LinkedIn report revealed that the UAE is the world’s most preferred destination for professionals seeking new career opportunities and a high standard of living.

The UAE also ranks first among the top 20 countries in the United Nations Development Program’s Human Development Index.

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API-first policy

The new API-first policy applies specifically to ministries and federal entities. It aims to ensure rapid interconnection and integration with other systems, both governmental and private, in line with the approved policies and programs.

Policy Focus: The API-first policy emphasizes the synchronization, enhancement of cooperation, and fostering of relationships between the private and public sectors to provide government services to the people.

UAE National Geospatial Data Policy

This new policy aims to enhance cooperation among organizations involved in geospatial information management.

The policy will not only help individuals make informed decisions using geospatial data but will also regulate and safeguard the management of geospatial information, data systems, and related services.

International agreements

The agreement signed between the UAE and other countries include

• Avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion on income taxes, between the UAE and Qatar
• Prevention of fiscal evasion related to income taxes approved between the UAE and Kuwait.
• UAE and Kuwait addressing the avoidance of double taxation on income and capital and the prevention of tax evasion and avoidance.
• UAE and Australia agree to encourage and protect investments.
• UAE and Jordan focus on cooperation and mutual administrative assistance in customs matters.