Times of India Digest

Daily News • Sunday, 1 February 2026

UAE signs $20 million agreement with UN World Food Programme for Sudan

The UAE has signed a new $20 million cooperation agreement with the UN World Food Programme to provide urgent food assistance to conflict-affected communities in Sudan. This initiative aims to address critical food security needs for vulnerable groups, including displaced populations, and reinforces the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian commitment to the nation.

Iran hit by 5.3-magnitude earthquake, UAE confirms no damage

A moderate 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck southern Iran on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at a depth of 10 kilometers. While causing minor cosmetic damage in Iran, the tremor was not felt in the UAE due to distance and tectonic shielding. Advanced monitoring systems ensured no panic, with UAE residents experiencing no disruption.

“For the first time in its history”: UAE non-oil foreign trade crosses $1 trillion

The United Arab Emirates has achieved a historic milestone in non-oil trade, crossing the $1 trillion mark. This significant economic feat was accomplished ahead of schedule, reflecting strong global confidence and enhanced private sector collaboration. Non-oil exports saw substantial growth, driving this remarkable expansion. The nation’s trade performance highlights a robust and developing investment ecosystem.

Abu Dhabi introduces pet registration rule, Dh1,000 fine for unregistered dogs and cats

Abu Dhabi has launched a mandatory digital pet registration system, effective February 3, 2026, requiring all cats and dogs to be microchipped and documented via the TAMM platform. This initiative aims to enhance pet welfare, public health, and animal population management, with a one-year grace period for owners before a Dh1,000 fine is imposed for non-compliance.

Dubai’s freelance visa trend: Step-by-step process from permit to residency, how it works, what it costs and who can apply

Dubai’s freelance visa remains active, attracting global talent with legal self-employment and family sponsorship. Professionals need a freelance permit from a free zone, proof of qualifications and meet age/documentation requirements. Costs range from AED 12,000-20,000 annually. This initiative supports a flexible labour market, fostering innovation and growth in the emirate.

Qatar announces fuel prices for February 2026: Petrol and diesel rates drop

QatarEnergy has announced lower fuel prices for February 2026, with reductions across premium and super petrol, as well as diesel. These adjustments align with Qatar’s fuel pricing mechanism, which links domestic rates to international market movements. The monthly announcements, released by QatarEnergy since 2017, impact transport costs and daily expenses.

16 top YouTube channels uploading AI content deleted, report finds

YouTube is actively purging popular AI-generated channels, removing 16 of the top 100 for low-quality, repetitive content. This move, targeting channels with millions of subscribers and billions of views, aims to curb automated spam, protect genuine creators, and elevate the platform’s overall content quality. YouTube is leveraging existing anti-spam tools to ensure a fairer environment for original creators.

DOJ Email Release On Musk: New files show Musk, Epstein planned island visit; daughter recalls childhood trips

Newly revealed documents show Elon Musk’s attempts to visit Jeffrey Epstein’s island around the holidays. Emails detail cordial exchanges and discussions about parties. Musk’s estranged daughter, Vivian Wilson, shared a childhood memory of traveling in the same Caribbean region during holidays, adding a personal, unsettling layer to the revelations. It remains unconfirmed if Musk ever visited the island.