Times of India Digest
Daily News • Sunday, 1 February 2026
‘Long lost cave in New Zealand’ reveals million-year-old wildlife, extinct birds, and a Kākāpō ancestor
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.
‘If I wanted to party with young girls…’: Elon Musk reacts to Jeffrey Epstein email
One of the most widely circulated emails dates to September 11, 2013. Epstein wrote to Musk asking whether he would be in New York for the opening of the United Nations General Assembly and said that “many interesting people” would be coming to his house.
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.
Epstein Files Claim: Bill Gates caught STD from ‘Russian girls’; sought antibiotic for ex-wife Melinda
Freshly released documents linked to the Jeffrey Epstein investigations have reignited scrutiny of Bill Gates’ past association with the disgraced financier, after draft emails found on Epstein’s computer made a series of unverified and explosive claims about the Microsoft co-founder’s private life.
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.
Despite memes and mockery, Melania Trump documentary broke this remarkable box office record
The performance stands in sharp contrast to the film’s digital reception. On social media, Melania has been widely derided as a glossy vanity project, with critics dismissing it as stage-managed and self-promotional. Viral jokes and conspiracy-tinged commentary framed the film as emblematic of Trump-era excess. Yet the theatre turnout tells a different story.
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.
Tahir Tahirfuego’s cause of death: How did GodLike Esports personality pass away at the age of 24
Indian esports mourns the sudden passing of 24-year-old Free Fire pro Tahir “TahirFuego” at the GodLike Esports bootcamp. As per reports, he was found critically ill and died in the hospital despite medical efforts. While the cause remains unconfirmed, his untimely death has deeply affected the community, remembering his skill and dedication. Investigations are ongoing.
‘Will do something substantial if …’ : Trump warns Canada over potential China deal; negotiates with Iran
US President Trump warned Canada of substantial US action if it proceeds with a trade deal with China, stating it would lead to China taking over Canada. Meanwhile, Trump indicated Iran is in talks with the US, despite ongoing military deployments in the region, while Tehran issued warnings against any attack.
‘Way bigger problem than H-1B’: US whistleblower who claimed ‘Indian takeover’ says America is being destroyed from within
‘H‑2B employers paying $9‑$11’: Immigration expert says Americans are denied work even in construction
‘Went to Punjab to pledge Canada…’: Row over Tim Uppal’s deportation remarks as extortion fears grow
TikTok influencer Paige Carlene breaks silence after followers ask for her late baby’s belongings during her raw grief
Influencer Paige Carlene asked followers to stop requesting her late son Austin’s baby items, saying her grief is still raw. Austin died at 31 days old after being born at 25 weeks. Paige explained that his belongings hold deep meaning and help her family feel close to him while they heal.
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.
Save A Fox YouTube channel confirms passing of Finnegan the Fox months after his death
Finnegan the Fox, a star of Save A Fox’s YouTube channel, has passed away. The news was shared by Ethan Frankamp, widower of founder Mikayla Raines. Finnegan’s death occurred two months prior, with the family needing time to grieve multiple losses. He was also known for providing vocal sounds for Kiriko in Overwatch 2.
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.
Indian tech immigrant says Germany is ‘not the place for ambitious people’: ‘Most companies still prefer…’
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