Good morning from The National on January 13, 2026.
Here is your digest of what is making the headlines in the Emirates.
A study suggests academic pressure is causing anxiety among young people, as an increase in private tutoring means pupils are continuing their studies long after the school bell rings.
Data compiled by education researcher Prof Mark Bray and presented at an education conference in Dubai shows 36 per cent of Grade 8 pupils in the UAE receive private tutoring, rising to 63 per cent among Grade 12 pupils in Dubai, in preparation for exams that determine university access and careers.
“Private tutoring is not inherently good or bad,” said Prof Bray. “It has both positive and negative aspects. But its growth – even in good schools – signals rising pressure on children as expectations around education increase.”
Read the full story from Shireena Al Nowais here
Palm Jebel Ali megaproject takes root, with units 'on track for 2027'
Construction of the Palm Jebel Ali megaproject is on track to have units completed by 2027, according to a video produced by the developer Nakheel. The clip, posted on social media on Monday, offered an update on the fourth quarter of last year.
It offered a glimpse of major infrastructure work, installation of key services and beachfront villas rising from the fronds.
It also showed workers toiling across the man-made island, scores of cranes and numerous construction vehicles travelling along the fronds and trunk.
More from John Dennehy can be read here
New drug to tackle heart failure approved for use in the UAE
Hospitals are already using a drug newly approved by the UAE for the treatment of heart failure.
The Emirates Drug Establishment authorised the use of Inpefa (sotagliflozin), which was shown in clinical trials to reduce deaths linked to cardiovascular disease, as well as hospital admissions and urgent medical visits due to heart failure.
The chronic condition is a growing problem in the UAE, driven by high rates of diabetes, hypertension and coronary artery disease.
Read the full story from Shireena Al Nowais and Daniel Bardsley here
Fact of the day
Dubai last year set a record for selling homes valued at more than $10 million. Read more here
Today's must-reads
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