Ambani’s Reliance responds to Musk as Starlink’s India launch remains on hold
Musk, the world’s richest man, has repeatedly accused the Indian government and Ambani of stalling Starlink’s years-long efforts to launch in a market of more than a billion internet subscribers. India has denied any bias in its approval process
Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance said it welcomed competition from Elon Musk’s Starlink and that its own satellite services were also awaiting clearance, its first response to accusations that Ambani was blocking Starlink’s India launch.
Musk, the world’s richest man, has repeatedly accused the Indian government and Ambani of stalling Starlink’s years-long efforts to launch in a market of more than a billion internet subscribers. India has denied any bias in its approval process.
The Friday statement, which did not name Musk, comes days before Reliance Industries’ digital unit Jio Platforms seeks a $108bn valuation in India’s largest IPO to date.
Jio houses Reliance’s telecom arm, which has over 530 million customers and is a potential competitor to Starlink in India’s internet market.
“At Reliance, we have never feared competition,” the conglomerate said on Friday, addressing “remarks about Reliance and the Indian market” in a statement it said was intended to “place the facts on record”.
India’s long wait for satellite internet
Musk’s posts on X have ranged from asking whether Ambani was the “real boss” of India to addressing him as “Prime Minister Ambani” and asking whether he would allow Starlink to compete.
The attacks mark a sharp turn for Musk, who has a warm public rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and come as New Delhi courts foreign investment and negotiates a trade deal with Washington.
India has licensed Starlink, Jio’s satellite internet arm and Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb to operate services, but none has the security clearance needed to launch.
Satellite broadband could help to connect hundreds of millions of Indians who remain offline, mostly in rural and remote areas.
Musk has said he would price Starlink affordably in India to take on Jio’s low-cost internet plans. Cheap data is how Jio built its presence in India, and Musk has used the same strategy in markets like Kenya to disrupt local telecom players.
WATCH: Tesla’s new Roadster turns in air with SpaceX thrusters
Tesla has unveiled its next-generation Roadster, featuring SpaceX-developed rocket thrusters, a sub-one-second 0-60 mph acceleration claim and a planned 2028 production start
Tesla unveiled a redesigned Roadster powered with rocket-style thrusters on Thursday and said it would start production in 2028, more than a decade after it first showed a next-generation version of its electric sports car.
The white two-seater vehicle, developed in collaboration with CEO Elon Musk’s rocket company SpaceX, drove upside down on a ramp using a suction system, turned in the air and landed using built-in thrusters. Later in the event it used the thrusters to jump over a truck and other vehicles, twisting in the air during the maneuver.
WATCH BELOW
Some watchers saw the collaboration as Musk drumming up interest in a merger of the two big companies he controls, an idea he has explored by discussing their overlap.
The reveal gives Tesla a showpiece car after years of missed Roadster deadlines, but it comes as the company shifts its focus to self-driving technology and robotics, and days before third-quarter results that analysts say matter more to investors.
“It was an engineering flex with no commercial value beyond embarrassing traditional car makers,” Gene Munster, managing partner at Tesla investor Deepwater Asset Management, said on social media platform X.
“The Roadster event is the latest example of why Elon can’t wait to bring (Tesla) and (SpaceX) together,” Munster said.
Musk has played down the car’s importance to Tesla’s finances, describing it in 2023 as a “small potato situation” that would not “move the needle in a major way financially.”
But the car still carries symbolic weight.
“Tesla does not currently have a halo car, or high-performance luxury vehicle designed to showcase an automaker’s best engineering and technology. The Roadster will be Tesla’s new halo car,” Morningstar analyst Seth Goldstein said in a note last month.
Viewers and witnesses gushed over the spectacle of the launch.
“That was the most insane product demo I’ve ever seen,” Tesla fan and investor Sawyer Merritt posted on X. “I just saw this in person, and I’m still asking how this wasn’t AI.”
Musk and other executives did not specify any target prices at Thursday’s event, although Tesla nearly a decade ago quoted a base price of $200,000 for the vehicle.
Tesla’s reservation page for the Roadster after Thursday’s event showed a “Performance” version of the vehicle requiring a $50,000 deposit and a “Thrust” version with “acceleration thrusters” requiring a $250,000 deposit. A “Rocket” variant, which Tesla says is “invite only,” is described as a single-seat model with a “full flight system.”
‘Halfway to the speed of sound’
The event at a SpaceX test site in McGregor, Texas, had all the elements of a classic Musk product reveal: dramatic music, smoke, mechanical hissing sounds and a launch countdown.
“This is the culmination of incredible work by Tesla and SpaceX engineers working closely together to make something that you haven’t seen in any movie,” Musk, wearing a silver Western-style belt buckle emblazoned with the Tesla logo, told a cheering crowd of enthusiasts and investors.
The Roadster can accelerate from zero to 60 mph (97 kph) in less than one second and can hit a top speed of over 230 mph (370 kph), Tesla vehicle engineering chief Lars Moravy said.
“Definitely much faster than that,” an excited Musk said. “I think you’ve got to crack halfway to the speed of sound.”
The Roadster can also travel over 300 miles (480 km) on a single charge. That is less than half of what Musk promised in 2017, when Tesla first revealed a prototype of the second-generation Roadster and said that deliveries would begin in 2020.
The original Roadster, released in 2008 and on sale until 2012, was Tesla’s first-ever electric vehicle and used a Lotus Elise chassis. It helped change the world’s view of what an EV could be. The company has since been known for its Model Y and Model X SUVs and Model S and Model 3 sedans.
The reveal of the second-generation Roadster comes amid a sharp shift in Tesla’s focus to artificial intelligence-led self-driving tech and robotics, from manufacturing cars for human drivers.
This year, Tesla stopped selling Model S and X vehicles to make space for production of its Optimus humanoid robots. It also launched Cybercab — a two-seater robotaxi that comes without manual controls such as a steering wheel, pedals and mirrors.
Tesla is set to report third-quarter results on October 21.
Sales of Tesla’s aging lineup of EVs have declined over the past two years, although high gas prices helped boost deliveries in the third quarter.
“The margin and cash flow numbers will carry far more weight with investors than anything they saw at the reveal,” said Josh Gilbert, lead analyst for Asia-Pacific at trading platform eToro.
No WhatsApp account? Here’s how you can still join a call on it
The updates build on the messaging platform’s July launch of WhatsApp Web calling, which enabled one-to-one and group audio and video calls directly through a browser
WhatsApp has introduced browser-based calling and guest access, enabling non-account holders to join free, end-to-end encrypted calls via shared links without downloading the application.
WhatsApp is expanding its calling capabilities with guest access and browser-based audio and video calls, allowing users to connect without requiring everyone on a call to have an account or download the app.
The updates build on the messaging platform’s July launch of WhatsApp Web calling, which enabled one-to-one and group audio and video calls directly through a browser. On October 14, the company announced guest calling, allowing people without WhatsApp accounts to join calls through invitation links.
Both features offer free, end-to-end encrypted calls without time limits, extending WhatsApp’s reach to workplaces, classrooms and other settings where participants may use different devices or applications, a WhatsApp blog conveyed.
Guest access adds flexibility to calls
Under the new guest-calling feature, WhatsApp users can create a call link and share it with colleagues, classmates or other participants who do not have an account. Guests can open the link in a computer browser, enter their name and wait for the host to approve their entry.
Calls can accommodate up to 32 participants, according to WhatsApp. Only users with an account can create call links, while hosts retain control over admission and participation. Guests can be removed at any time and cannot view other participants’ phone numbers, send messages or directly invite additional people.
The feature also supports selected in-call tools, including computer screen sharing, emoji reactions and a hand-raising function. These capabilities could make the service useful for remote collaboration, online tutoring and group discussions.
WhatsApp said guest calling is designed to let people connect without worrying about which applications other participants have installed.
Browser calling removes the app requirement
In an earlier update dated July 28, WhatsApp introduced audio and video calling directly through WhatsApp Web. The feature allows users to make and receive individual and group calls without downloading a separate desktop application.
The browser-based service includes screen sharing, reactions and a dedicated Calls tab with call history and favourites. WhatsApp said the feature is intended to accommodate users working on shared computers, using workplace devices that restrict downloads or preferring browser-based access.
The company said web calls are end-to-end encrypted, free and available without time limits, maintaining the privacy protections associated with its other calling services.
Calendar integration planned
WhatsApp also plans to introduce calendar integrations later this year for Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook. Users will be able to connect their accounts, install the WhatsApp plugin and add call links directly to calendar invitations.
Invitees will be able to join calls regardless of whether they have WhatsApp accounts, extending guest access to scheduled meetings.
The developments reflect WhatsApp’s broader push to make its calling service accessible across devices and easier to use for people outside its existing user base.
Together, browser calling, guest access and planned calendar integrations position WhatsApp as a more flexible option for online meetings, while retaining free access and end-to-end encryption as central features.
Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, will be available for pre-order in the UAE from 4pm on Friday, October 16, with prices starting at Dhs8,499.
The launch marks Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, introducing a book-style design that combines the portability of an iPhone with a larger display for multitasking, entertainment and productivity.
Customers can place orders through the Apple UAE online store or the Apple Store app, with official sales, deliveries and in-store availability beginning on Friday, October 23.
The iPhone Duo is Apple’s most expensive smartphone to date, positioning it above the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in the company’s premium device portfolio
iPhone Duo UAE prices and storage options
The iPhone Duo is available in two colours — Night Sky and Star White — and four storage configurations.
Apple is also offering eligible customers trade-in credits of between Dhs640 and Dhs3,260 when exchanging an iPhone 13 or newer model, depending on the device and its condition.
Monthly payment options are available through Apple’s UAE store, subject to eligibility and financing terms.
What are the key features of the iPhone Duo?
The biggest change is the foldable display, allowing users to switch between a conventional smartphone experience and a larger, tablet-like screen.
The device features a 5.4-inch outer display and a 7.6-inch inner display, both supporting refresh rates of up to 120Hz.
Powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip, the iPhone Duo supports enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities and multitasking features through iOS 27, including running applications side by side.
The device also includes a Grade 5 titanium frame, a reinforced hinge, Ceramic Shield protection and an IP68 water and dust resistance rating.
For photography, Apple has introduced a dual 48-megapixel rear camera system with 2x optical-quality zoom and 4K Dolby Vision video recording.
Other features include a dual-battery architecture, Touch ID integrated into the power button, eSIM connectivity and support for Apple Pencil.
How to pre-order the iPhone Duo in the UAE
Customers looking to secure the new device can visit Apple’s UAE website or use the Apple Store app once pre-orders open at 4pm.
Buyers can select their preferred storage capacity and colour, review available trade-in offers, and choose delivery or store collection options where available.
Apple has also introduced new accessories, including a protective iPhone Duo Case and a Folio with Kickstand, designed to support the device in different viewing positions.
The company said customers can access guidance from Apple Specialists on financing, trade-ins and transferring data from an existing device.
The iPhone Duo’s launch also represents a significant development in the premium smartphone segment, bringing Apple into direct competition with established foldable device manufacturers.
Its larger screen, AI capabilities and productivity-focused software could appeal to business users seeking smartphone portability alongside tablet-style functionality.
However, its Dhs8,499 starting price places it firmly in the ultra-premium category, with adoption likely to depend on consumer demand for foldable devices and the perceived benefits of the new form factor.
Are Dubai’s World Islands making a comeback? Samana thinks so, betting big with a Dhs4bn development
Samana Developers is betting on a revival of Dubai’s World Islands with a Dhs4bn-plus residential project, despite a sharp slowdown in the emirate’s property market
One of Dubai’s largest off-plan property developers is betting on a revival of The World Islands, unveiling a residential project worth more than Dhs4bn on an offshore archipelago that has struggled to fulfil its original ambitions for more than two decades.
Samana Developers, which has launched 54 projects in Dubai and ranks among the emirate’s top 10 developers by registered sales volume, announced on Thursday plans to build 849 residences at The World Islands, including 840 branded apartments, seven floating villas and two tree villas.
The project, which has a gross development value exceeding Dhs4bn, marks the launch of Samana Collecta, a new premium property brand established by the company as it expands beyond its traditional residential portfolio into larger, lifestyle-focused destinations.
Speaking at the launch in Dubai, Samana CEO Imran Farooq said the development was intended to establish a permanent residential community on The World Islands, rather than another luxury destination catering primarily to tourists and occasional visitors.
“The opportunity now is to make island living work for everyday life — not only as somewhere to visit, but as somewhere people can genuinely call home,” Farooq said.
The company has acquired approximately six island plots at The World Islands, with plans for further developments beyond the initial project.
Samana CEO Imran Farooq.
Farooq said the flagship development would have a contractual delivery period of four years from the start of construction, although Samana is targeting completion in approximately 39 months.
Residences are expected to start at below Dhs2m, with the development offering studios and one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments, alongside the floating and tree villas.
The project will feature multiple beaches, a lagoon, swimming pools, a beach club, restaurants, spas, gyms, co-working facilities and retail outlets. Regular yacht shuttle services are planned to connect the island with mainland Dubai at 30-minute intervals.
Why develop on The World Islands now?
The announcement represents another significant chapter for one of Dubai’s most recognisable, but historically challenging, real estate ventures.
Originally launched by Nakheel in 2003, The World Islands comprise approximately 300 artificial islands arranged in the shape of a world map, several kilometres off Dubai’s coastline.
Much of the land reclamation was completed by early 2008, shortly before the global financial crisis triggered a severe downturn in Dubai’s property market and brought development activity across much of the archipelago to a standstill.
Progress subsequently resumed in stages, most notably through Kleindienst Group’s Heart of Europe development, which has introduced hotels, luxury residences and other hospitality facilities.
However, much of the wider archipelago has yet to fulfil the ambitions associated with its original launch.
Samana’s project represents a different proposition in terms of scale and target market, combining hundreds of residential units with the infrastructure and facilities required to support year-round occupation.
Farooq said the company had purchased its island plots in 2025, recognising that it would need to take responsibility for significant elements of the infrastructure required to make the development viable.
These include electricity, water, sewerage, waste management and marine transportation, with Samana effectively taking on master developer responsibilities for its islands.
The proposed starting price below Dhs2m also represents an attempt to reach buyers beyond the ultra-wealthy clientele traditionally associated with private-island property.
Farooq was bullish about the potential for capital appreciation, although he stressed that Samana did not guarantee investment returns.
“I think this has to become the most expensive real estate of Dubai,” he said, suggesting that island properties could eventually command a premium of 50 to 60 per cent over conventional Dubai homes.
Dubai property sales decline sharply
The investment comes at a challenging time for Dubai’s wider real estate market, with transaction volumes declining amid regional geopolitical uncertainty.
That represented a 21.8 per cent decline in the number of sales transactions and a 23.5 per cent fall in their value compared with the corresponding period last year.
September was particularly challenging, with approximately 11,430 sales worth Dhs29.7bn. Transaction volumes fell 43.8 per cent year-on-year, while their total value declined 45.6 per cent.
While the figures point to a slowdown in market activity, falling transaction volumes do not necessarily translate into equivalent declines in property prices.
Against this backdrop, Farooq acknowledged that Samana had experienced a drop in sales following the escalation of regional tensions earlier this year.
He said the company’s sales had fallen by 52 per cent during the disruption, but argued that the continued willingness of buyers to commit to property purchases demonstrated underlying confidence in Dubai.
Farooq also highlighted a significant shift in the profile of buyers supporting the market.
“There is a shift in Dubai,” he said, explaining that approximately 60 per cent of Samana’s business in 2024 came from residents already living in the emirate. By 2025, international buyers accounted for an estimated 65 to 70 per cent of sales.
That trend has since reversed.
Today, he said, close to 90 per cent of the company’s sales are coming from UAE-based residents, with overseas buyers accounting for approximately 10 to 12 per cent.
“When the strait opens up, the situation settles down, and tourists are back, we expect international to get activated also,” he said, referring to the disruption affecting regional shipping and travel.
Construction costs rise 11 per cent
Samana is also navigating higher construction costs, which Farooq said had risen by approximately 11 per cent because of supply-chain disruption and increased material prices.
While some developers had slowed construction activity in response to higher costs, Farooq said Samana was maintaining its delivery programme, viewing the additional expenditure as an investment in its reputation and long-term customer confidence.
“We don’t intend to pass any cost to our customer,” he said, explaining that the company would absorb the additional expenditure on existing projects.
“We are taking it as a goodwill cost and we are comfortable with it,” he added.
He said material availability was not the main problem, but rather the higher prices being charged, particularly for steel and other construction inputs.
Farooq expects some of the cost pressures to ease as regional shipping and supply chains normalise.
Despite the challenging conditions, he said customer instalment collections were running at approximately 97 per cent of their pre-February levels, which he cited as evidence of the company’s financial resilience.
Samana rules out immediate IPO or bond issuance
The developer is also not planning an immediate initial public offering or bond issuance, with Farooq arguing that current capital-market conditions make either option unattractive.
“We don’t feel that this is the time to hit the capital market,” he said.
Farooq argued that borrowing through the bond market could prove expensive, while an IPO could require a substantial discount to the company’s valuation because of the way international investors currently perceive regional risks.
He estimated that an IPO under current conditions could require a valuation discount of approximately 30 to 35 per cent, while bond financing could cost close to 10 per cent.
He put Samana’s debt-to-asset ratio at approximately 9 per cent and said the developer remained comfortable financing its expansion primarily through customer payments and existing cash flows.
“We are a debt shy company. We don’t like to over borrow,” he said.
The company would reconsider capital-market options once conditions improved, he added.
Despite the broader slowdown, Farooq remains confident about Dubai’s long-term property prospects, arguing that a recovery in international buyer demand could create another phase of growth once regional uncertainty eases.
India-Saudi flight disruptions: Consulate in Jeddah issues urgent advisory for Umrah pilgrims
The consulate has also established a 24-hour control room to assist Indian nationals affected by cancellations, rescheduling and other travel-related difficulties
The Consulate General of India in Jeddah has issued an advisory for Indian nationals travelling between India and Saudi Arabia, urging passengers, particularly Umrah pilgrims, to check flight updates and stay in touch with airlines and travel providers amid ongoing flight disruptions.
The consulate has also established a 24-hour control room to assist Indian nationals affected by cancellations, rescheduling and other travel-related difficulties.
The advisory asks travellers flying to and from Jeddah and Madinah to verify their flight status directly with their airlines before heading to the airport.
Passengers have also been advised to contact travel agents, tour operators and Umrah service providers for information on cancellations, revised schedules, alternative travel arrangements and accommodation where necessary.
The Consulate said it is in regular contact with airlines and local authorities to help affected Indian nationals. Updates on flight operations, cancellations and rescheduling will be shared through its official social media channels as information becomes available.
24/7 control room for assistance
Indian nationals requiring consular assistance can contact the consulate’s control room, which is operating around the clock.
The advisory urges Indian nationals to remain calm, monitor official updates and contact the Consulate if they encounter difficulties requiring consular support.
The notice, dated October 13, 2026, was issued from Jeddah as flight disruptions continued to affect travel between India and Saudi Arabia.
