Good morning from The National on December 30, 2025.
Here is your digest of what is making the headlines in the Emirates.

Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, approved the emirate's biggest budget yet ahead of the new year.
The figure of Dh44.5 billion ($12.1 billion) was agreed on to "foster financial sustainability [and] enhance cultural, scientific and economic prosperity", according to state news agency Wam.
A key facet of the budget was to underline the importance of ensuring security and safety, along with the sustainability of energy, water and food resources.
“The 2026 general budget adopts a three-dimensional approach," said Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, chairman of the Sharjah Finance Department.
"The first dimension focuses on developing economic and social objectives and strategies to enhance the well-being and prosperity of the emirate's residents."
Read the full report here
UAE issues mosquito warning as residents report increase in numbers

UAE residents were urged to be alert to the dangers posed by mosquitoes after recent wet weather created ideal conditions for the insects to thrive.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention issued a warning that a larger number of mosquitoes in the Emirates could increase the risk of disease being transmitted.
Their numbers increased after periods of rain and UAE residents have noticed an increase following the heavy downpours this month.
A rise in mosquito numbers was also reported in April last year, when the UAE experienced its largest single day of rainfall since records began in 1949.
Read the full story from Ali Al Shouk here
Gianni Infantino defends 2026 Fifa World Cup ticket pricing amid booming demand

Fifa president Gianni Infantino said an unprecedented demand for 2026 World Cup tickets vindicated his organisation's controversial pricing structure for the tournament.
At the opening of the World Sports Summit at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai on Monday, Mr Infantino said Fifa had received requests for 150 million tickets since they went on sale 15 days ago.
"This is absolutely crazy. And what is important and what is crucial is that the revenues that are generated from this are going back to the game all over the world," he said.
Fifa has come in for fierce criticism over the cost of tickets for the 2026 World Cup. Scotland manager Steve Clarke even warned supporters not to risk going into debt just to attend the tournament in North America.
Read the full story here
Fact of the day
Most parking will be free in Dubai on New Year's Day. Read more here
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