Sea Dubai, the foremost initiative for enhancing Dubai's competitiveness as a leading destination for marine leisure tourism, has announced its plan to launch the "New Year’s Eve Yacht Gathering 2018" from 29th to 31st December, 2017, with the support of 12 public and private entities, and the participation of more than 1,000 yachts.

The event embodies the initiative’s key objective of sustaining the framework of co-ordination between maritime sector leaders to promote Dubai’s good standing on the world's marine leisure map.

The Dubai Maritime City Authority, DMCA, Dubai Police, the organiser "Water Adventure Dubai," and the sponsor "Floating Seahorse," a project by Kleindienst Group, are lending support for the success of the event.

The upcoming largest yacht gathering in the UAE in celebration of the New Year will be held in a delightful leisure setting along the shores of Dubai. It will provide an exceptional experience to enjoy the legendary celebrations of Dubai, alongside the world's largest fireworks and light displays.

Commenting on the upcoming event, Sultan bin Sulayem, DP World Group Chairman & CEO and Chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, said, "The New Year’s Eve Yacht Gathering will further enhance Dubai’s competitiveness on the world’s maritime tourism map. We now have more diversified tourism product offerings, and with bold initiatives like Sea Dubai we can expect more success and growth in 2018 and beyond. This will also be a new and different way to celebrate the New Year."

Ali Al Daboos, Executive Director of Operations, DMCA, said, "New Year’s Eve Yacht Gathering 2018 is an important addition to ongoing initiatives for enhancing Dubai's position as a world-class destination for New Year’s Day celebrations. This is an excellent initiative aimed at delivering a unique three-day experience spanning the Burj Al Arab up to the Palm Jumeirah. It is in line with relentless efforts to accelerate the growth of the marine leisure sector as a key pillar for consolidating the leadership of the local maritime community as one of the most competitive and attractive in the world.

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Government-owned RAK Gas is currently undertaking an offshore seismic survey, it has been announced. The 70-day survey, being carried out by the survey vessel Polarcus Alima, began earlier this month and is due to be completed in February.

RAK Gas holds licences for oil and gas exploration over the whole of Ra’s al-Khaimah’s onshore and offshore areas.

The survey is being carried out on a 24-hour a day basis, with the remote sensing devices being streamed up to 3.25 nautical miles astern of the vessel. A special notice to shipping has been issued by the Harbour Master of Ra’s al-Khaimah Ports, warning them to keep clear of the survey vessel and three other ships involved in the survey.

Wholly-owned by the Ra’s al-Khaimah Government, RAK Gas is the sole supplier of natural gas for the Emirate. It owns 30 percent of the offshore Saleh field and also obtains natural gas for its Khor al-Khuwair plant from the Bukha and West Bukha fields, offshore Oman’s Musandam peninsula, and from the Umm al-Qaiwain offshore gas field.

The company also has overseas exploration interests in Egypt, Malawi, Somaliland and Tanzania.

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A man was overheard telling his girlfriend not to accept a promotion at work because she would be on more money than him.

The unnamed couple were heard having an argument in an airport and one woman documented the whole conversation on Twitter.

She wrote: "Couple beside me at the airport is arguing over money. He just told her if she loved him she'd turn down the promotion bc everyone would know she'd be making more money than him and he'd be humiliated. Holy s**t is that really still a thing? Wtf (sic)"

The man apparently told his girlfriend that when they are married with kids she wouldn't be working so "no point focusing on her career".

After detailing the conversation, the woman ended revealing the girlfriend was applauded by onlookers when she walked away.

The Twitter user then wrote a tweet directly to the woman saying: "Dear Brave Airport Lady, if you ever see this, just know that although I'm sorry you went through this (esp during the holidays), I hope that, one day, you look back on this as a defining moment in your life. Never settle. Follow your heart. You are a goddess (sic)"

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Dubai, UAE 26 December 2017: The Dubai Fountain, the tallest performing fountain in the world, will add the Korean pop song, “Power” from the globally successful Korean boy band EXO to its list of melodies and will be premiered on 16 January, 2018.

The K-Pop artist, EXO made its debut in 2012 and has enjoyed phenomenal success as a boy band in Korea as well as across Asia, selling millions of records. The song “Power” is EXO’s newest hit, released in September this year to great success, topping the charts in various K-Pop markets.

It is the first time that The Dubai Fountain has added a K-Pop song to its hugely popular repertoire and a media event to celebrate the song’s inauguration will take place on 16 January, 2018. In addition to key media representatives from UAE, GCC, China, and South Korea, influencers and fans as well as EXO members and organizers will be attending to watch the premiere of the song played at the fountain.

On the listing of their song to The Dubai Fountain repertoire, EXO members commented: “We are very much delighted that our song “Power” has been chosen as the first Korean song ever to be played at The Dubai Fountain show. Not only is “Power” an uplifting song with a catchy beat, but also the lyrics talk about how one can become stronger through music that unites everyone into one. And all these go well with The Dubai Fountain itself where all Dubai visitors from all over the world gather in one spot to enjoy the show. We are looking forward to seeing the splendid fountain show with its first ever rendition of ‘Power’.’’

The Dubai Fountain is one of the world’s ‘must-see’ sites and its current music repertoire includes mega-hit songs from global artists such as “Thriller” by Michael Jackson, "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston, "The Prayer" by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli, “Skyfall” by Adele, and "La Vie En Rose" by Édith Piaf.

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Ranveer Singh

Katrina Kaif

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and daughter Aaradhya Bachchan

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Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, and dotted with some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks, Yas Island is home to one-of-a-kind experiences that are bound to invigorate all the senses and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adrenaline rush or a peaceful sanctuary to unwind, the pace of life on Yas Island can be as fast or slow as you desire— with a world of entertainment that is sure to delight and inspire, no matter your age or taste.

Journey with us for a glimpse of the out-of-this-world attractions, pristine beaches, and warmth of Emirati hospitality that await you on this extraordinary island in the sparkling Arabian Gulf.

Get the adrenaline pumping…

Yas Marina Circuit

Your first pit-stop on Yas Island, this is where you can take in the sights and sounds of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, go for a hair-raising spin with an adrenaline fuelled authentic race driving experience, or hit the track for an exhilarating karting with friends. Whatever your need for speed, there are plenty of ways to soak up the electric atmosphere of the same circuit frequented by F1® superstars.

Only on Yas Fun Fact: The Yas Marina Circuit hosts the F1®'s only twilight race, creating a magical atmosphere as day turns to night under the lights. There is no better place to see the stars.

Gear up for family-fun!

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
 
If your thirst for adventure is yet to be quenched, it’s time to make a beeline for Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Iconic in its own right, the world’s only Ferrari-branded park has a host of thrilling Ferrari-themed rides and attractions that are sure to get your heart racing! From state-of-the-art simulators and record breaking rides to immersive and interactive child-friendly attractions, this is a perfect day out for the whole family.

Only on Yas Fun Fact:  Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the only place in the world where you can go faster than an F1® car! Strap in to Formula Rossa, put your goggles on and prepare to be blasted at 240km/h in 4.9 seconds on the world’s fastest rollercoaster.

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi

Inspired by the UAE’s rich heritage of pearl diving through its unique story of ‘The Legend of the Lost Pearl’, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is the world’s only Emirati-themed waterpark and the UAE’s first mega waterpark. With over 40 rides, slides and attractions for the whole family, this Emirati-themed water park is guaranteed to create a splash-filled adventure, suitable for all ages!   

Interested in becoming a true Emirati pearl-diver? Opt for the park’s one-of-a-kind pearl diving experience that provides the excitement of diving for your own oysters! A one-hour session, it includes a safety briefing and is accompanied by dive instructors. Once you have collected your oysters from the depths, you’ll also learn how to properly open the oysters and understand more about the pearls within— which you’ll even get to take home as a memento of your adventure. Alternatively, you can choose to have the pearls set into your very own custom jewellery.

Only on Yas Fun Fact: With rides and experiences on offer to thrill both the old and the young at heart, the waterpark plays host to five rides that can’t be found anywhere else in the world including Bandit Bomber – the globe’s first interactive water and laser rollercoaster.

Kick back with some R&R

Yas Beach

If you love the sun, sand and surf, then throw on your flip-flops and head straight to Yas Beach! Complete with white sand, crystal-clear waters and natural mangrove surrounds, it’s the perfect tranquil getaway. In addition to an elegant infinity pool, beach chalets and cabanas, and a number of lounges and restaurants, you can take your pick between a fun family beach day, complete with a wide range of exciting water sports and activities, or even opt for a glamorous evening of sophisticated sun-lounging.

Only on Yas Fun Fact: You can journey out in a kayak to explore the distant Yas mangroves, the island’s best kept secret!

Yas Links Abu Dhabi

If you’re keen to golf by the Gulf, get your gloves on and tee off at Yas Links Abu Dhabi. Perched along the island’s western shores, the award-winning course has been ranked the #1 golf course in the middle east and 46th in the world by Golf Digest. It boasts an astonishing 112 bunkers with views of the Arabian Sea from every hole. Surrounded by lush mangroves, this is one of the island’s most beautiful destinations

Only on Yas Fun Fact: Yas Links Abu Dhabi is the first true Links golf course in the Middle East region!
Yas Hotels

In between the endless fun and adventure, you may be looking for a place to rest your head for the night. You’re in luck, as Yas Island is home to a wide range of top-notch hotels. Ranging from indulgent luxury to family-friendly venues, they all come with the plumpest of pillows and the most pleasing of panoramas and stunning sea views. Unwind at our state-of-the-art health clubs, gyms and spas that are fully equipped for some serious relaxation. If it’s eating and drinking that floats your boat, then don’t miss the scrumptious options available for brunch, lunch or dinner, at dozens of restaurants and lounges serving up delicacies from every corner of the globe.

Only on Yas Fun Fact: Famed for its iconic LED canopy, the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi is the world’s only hotel with an F1® racetrack running through it!

Indulge in retail therapy

Yas Mall

Yas Mall is much more than a place to shop. With 400 of the world’s top fashion and food brands, a 20-screen cinema and the region’s largest family entertainment zone, it is a marvellous indoor day out for the whole family. Located at the heart of Yas Island, Yas Mall is the perfect point of connection for all the island’s attractions. In fact, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi can even be accessed directly from the mall itself.

Alternatively, head to Cascade Dining, where a collection of 20 outlets serving cuisine from around the world are sure to satiate your appetite when hunger strikes! Ideally located between Yas Mall and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, it has a selection of dining options from quick bites to leisurely dining inside or outside on the terrace, with spectacular views of the fountains.
Only on Yas Fun Fact: Standing at 2.3 million m², Yas Mall is Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping mall!

Dine in style

From fine dining to sumptuous street food, Yas Island caters for all your foodie desires. There’s a luscious list of restaurants, cafés and lounges to take your pick from when hunger strikes.

Only on Yas Fun Fact: Across the island, there are more than 160 restaurants with over 25 different cuisines to choose from!

Gear up for exciting events

With no shortage of live events and entertainment, Yas Island’s calendar is always jam-packed with thrilling spectacles that will leave you clamouring for more. From world-class sporting events, festivals and cultural celebrations, through to water sports, comedy, music awards, and concerts – you can always expect a thrilling, eclectic mix of everything Yas Island has to offer. Yas Island’s 2018 calendar is filled with global mega-shows like PAW Patrol Live!, Fifth Harmony, Harlem  Globetrotters, and the Illusionists, along with mega-stars including Mohamed Hamaki headlining the Cairo Sound Music Festival and Kymani and Julian Marley at Bob Marley’s Birthday Festival. The island will also play host to a bevy of sporting events including the Abu Dhabi Tour and the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi 2018. For more information, visit yasisland.ae/events.

Only on Yas Fun Fact: The first half of 2018 is packed to brim with exciting entertainment with an event taking place every week from the start of the year until Ramadan!

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Instagram: Deepika Padukone

Deepika Padukone and Hollywood actor Vin Diesel sent fans in a tizzy soon after the actress shared a photo of them on social media in December.

Now 'xXx: The Return of Xander Cage' director DJ Caruso confirmed the news in a tweet during a chat session with his fans.

In December, the filmmaker had tweeted a picture and wrote: "Xander will travel this road #xandercagereturnsxxx #VinDiesel #Dominicanfiliming #DeepikaPadukone."

Vin Diesel/Instagram

He tweeted when a fan asked him about Deepika's shooting schedule: "@CyrineZanaib @6eyf__ we start in january. She (Deepika) starts sometime in February."

Jet Li, Deepika Padukone and Tony Jaa are joining the cast of Vin Diesel's xXx sequel. They'll join a cast that already includes UFC fighter Conor McGregor and Samuel L. Jackson.

Karisma Kapoor's divorce gets murky

Sanskriti Media and Entertainment

Adding to their long drawn divorce, actress Karisma Kapoor's husband Sunjay Kapur has filed an application at the family court for the custody of their children.

Just last month, the estranged couple's petition of divorce on the grounds of mutual consent was disposed, after both of them withdrew their consent.

The two children, daughter Samiera and son Kiaan Raj who are currently staying with Karisma.

File

Sunjay had filed the same application in the past, but later withdrew it as both the parties filed for divorce on mutual consent, which included the terms and conditions regarding the custody of the children.

But the same divorce petition on the grounds of mutual consent was disposed of last month after Karisma and Sunjay withdrew their consent to the petition.

The couple got married in 2003.

Karan Johar to launch Shah Rukh Khan's son?

Looks like filmmaker Karan Johar has set his eyes on Shah Rukh Khan's son, Aryan Khan.

Karan, who has launched talents like Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and Sidharth Malhotra, is keen on mentoring Aryan.

The director and Shah Rukh have worked extensively together and share great equations for over two decades now.

And Shah Rukh's 17-year-old son, who has off-late been in the party circuit surely has got all the makings of a Bollywood super star.

According to an interview with a leading daily, Karan stated that Aryan shall venture into the massive B-town only though his movie. While elaborating on his equation with SRK, the director said, "Working with SRK was and is something that I always cherish. I feel whenever there are two people who are strong and close to each other, there is a section of people who are never happy with their closeness."

He further said, "Shah Rukh is beyond family to me. In fact, my equation with him has moved from him to his kids now. I always tell him, "I am going to maintain my youth quotient only because I want to launch Aryan. No one else can launch Aryan but me."

Aryan is currently pursuing his studies in London and is often spotted partying.

Katrina trying to work things out with Ranbir

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There have been rumours doing the rounds about Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif's relationship being on rocky ground.

Her recent tell-all interview about not being happy with Ranbir working with Deepika, about not being close to his parents didn't help dwindle these rumours.

But a source close to the couple has actually told a website in India that there isn't really an issue between the two.

It seems all the issues hasn't affected Ranbir and Katrina's relationship. The reports of their break-up apparently didn't affect them since they don't pay too much attention to stories written about them.

While the rumours of their break-up may have worked for 'Tamasha's' publicity, it hasn’t damaged Ranbir and Katrina's relationship.

The actress is willing to iron out any possible friction. Katrina will be taking off to London for Christmas and New Year and she is taking Ranbir with her.

The couple sure need this vacation!

Katrina Kaif's 'Fitoor' intimate scenes

Twitter: @KatrinaAtCannes

'Fitoor', starring Aditya Roy Kapoor and Katrina Kaif has been embroiled in controversies since its inception.

Director Abhishek Kapoor is not entirely happy with the way things are going.

Twitter: @LOrealParisIn

He is disappointed with the way the film is shaping up and called for a re-shoot of a lovemaking scene between the film's lead pair Aditya and Katrina, which he believed wasn't good enough.

The passionate scene is just one of the scenes that will be redone, as per the report. 

Abhishek didn't like what he saw in the edit and has now decided to take out more time to do-over a few scenes which is normal.

Twitter: @KatrinaAtCannes

But all this has left Katrina miffed.

Katrina is angry with the director and strongly disagreed on the point of re-shooting the entire sequence.

Twitter: @KatrinaAtCannes

In fact, till the last moment, the crew had no clue if the shoot was happening at all. Eventually, the producers calmed the actress down and got her to agree to the scene again. But not before she threw a major fit.

'Fitoor' has already been delayed by months after Rekha decided to walk out of the project midway after shooting a few scenes. Tabu was then brought in and Abhishek resumed shooting.

When Ranveer Singh fell for Deepika Padukone

Sanskriti Media and Entertainment

Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone may never have confirmed the many rumours of the two being in a relationship with each other, but the two never hesitate when it comes to supporting or praising each other.

Ranveer has finally revealed when he fell for his ladylove for the first time and also said that he can not forget that first sight.

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In an recent interview, Ranveer and Deepika were asked what they thought about each other when they saw each other for the first time.

Ranveer revealed that he saw Deepika during the Zee Cine Awards which were held in Macau. He also said, "The first time I saw her, I almost went flat!"

File

The actor recalls that Deepika was wearing a silver dress at the event which happened in 2012 and when a fan asked him about how does he remember it so well. Here's what Ranveer tweeted: "how can one possibly forget that sight!?"

Genelia Deshmukh pregnant again?

Twitter

Riteish Deshmukh and wife Genelia Deshmukh are enjoying their parenthood with adorable little baby Riaan Deshmukh.

Riaan turned one this November when his parents threw a sailor-themed birthday party for him.

Twitter

However, buzz is that little Riaan will soon have a sweet little sibling to play with.

Bollywood circuits are abuzz that Genelia is pregnant with her second baby.

Twitter

The actress, who was planning to take on work after a long break, has put a stop to these new projects now that she is in the family way again.

Salman, Iulia Vantur caught in one frame

File

Salman Khan is one of the most good looking men in Bollywood and fans are aware of his string of affairs which never culminated into marriage.

The latest in the list is Romanian model Iulia Vantur. Rumours have been rife for a long time now that Salman and Iulia are going strong.

There have been buzzes of an engagement and a wedding too. However, Salman has never admitted to the relationship and has always laughed it off.

Recently, a source close to Salman mentioned that Iulia is busy with her work assignments abroad and therefore there is no question of them getting engaged or married.

Now few pictures have surfaced which shows Salman and Iulia driving away. While Salman is seated in the front, Iulia is seen sitting at the back.

Both Salman and Iulia are clicked in one frame and the two seemed aware of camera presence.

While it might still be some time before Salman Khan's relationship status is revealed to the world at large, these photos have added an all new dimension to the Salman-Iulia saga.

Katrina unhappy with Ranbir, Deepika

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone during a promotion of upcoming movie 'Tamasha' at Hotel Holiday, Punchkula. (Getty Images)

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone make a perfect couple on-screen. They have been the talk of the town and their chemistry on and off screen is way too palpable.

The two hottest co-stars of Bollywood were in the news during their aggressive promotional events and their movie 'Tamasha'.

Sanskriti Media and Entertainment

The movie itself was an intense, romantic and pathfinding story that even involved a passionate lip-lock between the two ex-lovers.

So what does Ranbir's current girlfriend Katrina Kaif think about all this?

Ranbir and Deepika Padukone dance during a promotion of their film 'Tamasha'. (AP)

Katrina said that 'Tamasha' is an outstanding movie and that Ranbir was superb in it. However, in a recent interview with GQ, Katrina put forward her actual thoughts on her handsome boyfriend working with his ex-girlfriend, Deepika.

Katrina said when asked about Ranbir working with Deepika, "I can't enforce my will on the people in my life. Their choices are their own. I may not be happy with them but I hope that as they mature or as they evolve, their choices will change!"

Well, that says it all, doesn't it?

Kareena Kapoor says no to Hrithik?

AFP

Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor Khan make a good Bollywood on-screen couple, despite that they have never worked together after Subhash Ghai's film 'Yaadein' in 2003.

It was their rumoured affair during the movie that saw the two actors walk away in different directions.

Reports suggested that Kareena and Hrithik might come together for Sanjay Gupta's next.

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The makers had approached Kareena but Hrithik's father Rakesh Roshan clearly said that Kareena is not in the film.

A popular entertainment tabloid recently reported that Hrithik will be working with his director father Rakesh Roshan once again and the film is set to kick start in February. It doesn’t have a title yet but the daily reports that it will be love story cum revenge drama directed by Sanjay Gupta.

AFP

Sanjay Gupta tweeted: "Ok guys its true that I am working on my next with Hrithik and Rakeshji. But we have not confirmed the lead actress as yet. We will soon :-)."

He continued, "It would be any director's dream come true to get Hrithik and Kareena together for a film. But we have not finalised our heroine yet."

Karisma Kapoor's divorce getting messy?

Actress Karisma Kapoor and estranged husband Sunjay Kapur had filed a mutual consent divorce petition in Mumbai's Family Court and were to end their 12 year old marriage before the end of 2014.

And since, they are unable to reach a consensus, both the parties decided to withdraw the joint petition for divorce.

The court will decide after speaking to Sunjay. Karisma, who was present in the court went through a long counselling session behind closed doors.

Mid Day reports that Karisma and Sunjay have been arguing about is the terms of a Trust being set up for the welfare of their two children, Samaira and Kiaan Raj Kapoor.

Sunjay doesn't want to handover the control of the Trust to Karisma. As a result, Karisma is not giving Sunjay access to their children.

Karisma and Sunjay tied the knot in September 2003.

Preity Zinta getting married... soon?

Sanskriti Media and Entertainment

In the latest wedding buzz, Bollywood's dimpled girl Preity Zinta is all set to marry, according to the reports.

Though the actress herself has denied the news, Times Of India has reported that sources close enough to the actress have confirmed that she's about to fly to USA in January 2016.

AFP

There, she'll be getting married to her American boyfriend, Gene Goodenough at a small and intimate ceremony.

The two have been going steady for a while now and it was Gene who stood by Preity throughout her problems with her ex-boyfriend Ness Wadia.

Katrina doesn't like talking about Salman

Salman and Katrina promote 'Ek Tha Tiger'. (Supplied)

Katrina Kaif, who is Ranbir Kapoor's girlfriend, feels that it would be disrespecting her 'existing relationship' if she talks in public about her ex-boyfriend Salman Khan.

During an appearance on Niranjan Iyengar's talk show 'Look Who's Talking with Niranjan', Katrina was asked about her relationship with the 'Dabangg' actor.

AFP

Katrina replied: "He is an amazing person and everyone in and out of the industry knows that. His parents and family treated me like a daughter always. But it does not seem respectful to my existing relationship if I talk about Salman or his family in the media; hence I choose not to mostly."

On being asked about her 'existing relationship' and her marriage plans with Ranbir, she said: 'Ranbir is my all-time friend'.

Shah Rukh to bring Parineeti, Alia together?

According to rumours Shah Rukh Khan is going to produce a female oriented flick starring Alia Bhatt and Parineeti Chopra in the lead.

The film is said to be directed by Farah Khan, who has been holed out in Goa for some time now working on her script.

 Farah is considering Parineeti and Alia to star in her two heroine drama flick.

Farah has also revealed that Shah Rukh will be producing her next project.

Parineeti had a rough 2014 with back to back flops like 'Daawat-e-Ishq' and 'Kill Dil' while Alia has been giving one hit after another until 'Shaandaar'.

The two girls have been often pitted against each other and it will be interesting to see how things work out in this chick-flick.

Salman talks about rumoured girlfriend Iulia

AFP

The grapevine has always been abuzz with talks of Salman Khan and Romanian TV personality Iulia Vantur being in a relationship.

And some time back, there was a rumour doing the rounds that Salman is secretly engaged to Iulia.

AFP

But later the actor rubbished all the rumours by saying, "There is a lot of buzz about a lot of things about me, which is never true. Yes, I read what is written, hear what is said, and my right answer to your question would be that I am indifferent to all of it. The small things don't bother me at all, but they bother my parents. And that really bothers me."

Salman has always been linked to leading ladies such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Katrina Kaif.

But the actor is still unmarried and always laughs it off when he is asked about his marriage.

Yuvraj Singh, Hazel ready for marriage?

(AFP)

Before the dust could settle around the big fat Indian wedding of cricketer Harbhajan Singh and actress Geeta Basra, cricketer Yuvraj Singh and actress Hazel Keech's marriage rumours is creating a buzz in the gossip columns.

It is an open secret that Yuvraj and Hazel are a couple and the two attended Harbhajan's wedding together.

Indian media also reported that the couple will be formally engaged by the end of November and wedding will be held in February 2016.

Facebook

The cricketer's tongue-in-cheek reply to these rumours has put all speculations to an end.

The all-rounder took to Twitter to deny reports about his 'impending wedding'. He wrote, "So now my dear media has decided the venue and month of my marriage can u also tell me the dates so I can get ready well in time!"

Yuvraj had previously dated Bollywood actress Kim Sharma and was also linked with Deepika Padukone.

Shah Rukh Khan shows his 'love bite'

Twitter

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is back on the sets of Rohit Shetty's 'Dilwale' after his birthday celebrations and apparently the actor got into a bit of trouble.

The actor got in a 'pub brawl' which resulted in a bruise on his arm.

Shah Rukh posted a picture of his 'pretty and pink love-bite' explaining that since he is the 'romantic hero' and all that, even his injuries reflect the same.

Looks like the actor shot for a bar fight scene for 'Dilwale' and got this bruise.

He tweeted, "My love bite from a bar fight. Being a romantic hero even my injuries look…well…pretty & pink! From sets of #Dilwale."

Are Hrithik, Kangana avoiding each other?

Sanskriti

Rumours of a fling between Hrithik Roshan and Kangana Ranaut was the talk of the town till they decided to part ways.

The 'Queen' actress was rumoured to have ended the relationship as Hrithik was not ready to take it forward.

It was also speculated that perhaps they had a bitter break-up.

Sanskriti

The two actors, who worked together in 'Krrish 3', are till conscious of prying eyes. During the opening ceremony of ongoing MAMI film festival they avoided each other like the plague.

Though they had a common group of friends at the event, the two stars never mingled with them together.

Sanskriti

They did pose for a group picture and maintained a distance between them - much to their relief.

While Hrithik was seen chatting up with Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif and Aditya Roy Kapoor, Kangana was seated far away. However, as soon as Hrithik left the gang, Kangana joined the others and chatted away.

Deepika trying to follow Priyanka Chopra?

In this file photograph taken on April 28, 2015, Indian Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone poses during a promotional event ahead of the forthcoming Hindi film ‘Piku’ in Mumbai. AFP

Deepika Padukone is keen on doing Hollywood films and wants to explore to work in the West.

During the ongoing Jio MAMI festival the actress said that she is interested in doing Hollywood films and is ready to explore work opportunities.

Deepika was earlier offered a role in 'Furious 7' which she had to decline due to her commitment to 'Ram Leela' promotions.

Priyanka Chopra poses for a photograph during the 'Star Guild Awards 2015'. (AFP)

As she gears up for two back-to-back releases, Deepika said if something interesting comes her way she will definitely take it up.

Actors like Priyanka Chopra and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have made appearances in Hollywood projects.

Priyanka is the first female actor from India to play lead in a US TV series. The actor is playing the role of Alex Parrish, a rookie FBI recruit with a mysterious past in 'Quantico'.

Anushka not ready to marry Virat

Last weekend, Anushka Sharma was spotted out with boyfriend Virat Kohli and her father on what was rumoured to be a house-hunting spree.

A report in mid-day quotes a source as saying, "Anushka and Virat have been open about their relationship because they are sure about taking it to the marriage altar. Their families will meet soon and decide the wedding date. In all likelihood, they will get hitched early next year."

But the actress isn't getting married any time soon, insists a statement on behalf of the 'Dil Dhadakne Do' star, seemingly impelled by reports in the press of a possible 2016 wedding to cricketer Virat Kohli.

The statement reads: "There is no truth to the stories/rumours about Anushka Sharma's impending wedding. Currently she is busy and happy with her work commitments. She has always been open about her life and would appreciate it and request everyone to wait for her to make announcements about her life instead of speculating."

Deepika, Ranbir's chemistry made Katrina insecure?

Actress Katrina Kaif has not asked filmmaker Anurag Basu to 'fire up' her chemistry with boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor in their upcoming comedy-drama film 'Jagga Jasoos', said her spokesperson.

(AFP)

Katrina is reportedly worried about Ranbir's chemistry with his former girlfriend, actress Deepika Padukone's in upcoming film 'Tamasha'.

"These rumours are clearly someone's imagination running wild. Though this makes fodder for gossip, it is categorically and entirely untrue. These stories are misleading to the audience and fans in general. Such idle gossip is really avoidable and childish," Katrina's spokesperson said in a statement.

Deepika and Ranbir are returning on the silver screen together after two years in filmmaker Imtiaz Ali's 'Tamasha', which is slated to release on November 26 in UAE.

Meanwhile, 'Jagga Jasoos', which is slated to release in June next year, will feature the couple after 2010's 'Raajneeti'.

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He is inspired by Bollywood and has a Freddie Mercury-style moustache -- but it is the Michael Jackson dance moves of traffic cop Ranjeet Singh that grab attention on India's chaotic streets.

Heads turn and drivers cannot fail to notice when the 38-year-old moonwalks across busy intersections, avoiding rickshaws and trucks in the centre of Indore, a city of two million people.

"I have been a Michael Jackson fan for years and copied his moonwalk step to halt traffic 12 years ago," Singh told AFP.
 
"Initially, people were surprised, but it worked wonders over the years and has gained popularity."

"It's a tiring task maintaining traffic amid noise pollution and reckless motorists but moonwalking amuses commuters and drivers," Singh added, after another tiring day seemingly gliding backwards across the street.

Singh has become a social media phenomenon with nearly 50,000 people following his activities on Facebook while spectators add videos to sharing platforms every day.

Singh claims the number of traffic violations at the high court intersection where he spends most days has fallen over the years. An Indian university is studying his methods to see whether he has cut traffic jams too.

India's city streets are notorious the world over for gridlock. Drivers, already battling crater-pocked roads and faulty traffic signals, often take out their anger on police trying to keep cars moving and pedestrians safe.

Singh said some of India's younger drivers have paid for their recklessness with their lives.

"I have picked up the bodies of over 40 youngsters after accidents over the years and I feel terrible," he said.
 
"I just want youngsters to stay safe and follow rules."

Singh's colleagues were initially apprehensive when he used moves popularised by the late King of Pop to attract attention and manage traffic but they have since warmed to his unorthodox tactics, and he now gives moonwalking lessons to fellow officers.

"My parents are very proud of me for doing my job with extreme passion and with an innovative twist that includes Michael Jackson's step," he said.

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Bali's palm-fringed Kuta beach has long been a favourite with tourists seeking sun and surf, but nowadays its golden shoreline is disappearing under a mountain of garbage.

Plastic straws and food packaging are strewn between sunbathers, while surfers bobbing behind the waves dodge waste flushed out from rivers or brought in by swirling currents.

"When I want to swim, it is not really nice. I see a lot of garbage here every day, every time," Austrian traveler Vanessa Moonshine explains.

"It's always coming from the ocean. It's really horrible," she adds.

Often dubbed a paradise on earth, the Indonesian holiday island has become an embarrassing poster child for the country's trash problem.

The archipelago of more than 17,000 islands is the world's second biggest contributor to marine debris after China, and a colossal 1.29 million metric tons is estimated to be produced annually by Indonesia.

The waves of plastic flooding into rivers and oceans have been causing problems for years -- clogging waterways in cities, increasing the risk of floods, and injuring or killing marine animals who ingest or become trapped by plastic packaging.

The problem has grown so bad that officials in Bali last month declared a "garbage emergency" across a six-kilometre (3.7-mile) stretch of coast that included popular beaches Jimbaran, Kuta and Seminyak.

Officials deployed 700 cleaners and 35 trucks to remove roughly 100 tons of debris each day to a nearby landfill.

"People with green uniform were collecting the garbage to move it away but the next day I saw the same situation," said German Claus Dignas, who claimed he saw more garbage with each visit to the island.

"No one wants to sit on nice beach chairs and facing all this rubbish," he added.

Bali's rubbish problem is at its worst during the annual monsoon season, when strong winds push marine flotsam onto the beach and swollen rivers wash rubbish from riverbanks to the coast, according to Putu Eka Merthawan from the local environment agency.
 
"This garbage does not come from people living in Kuta and nearby areas," he told AFP.

"It would be suicidal if Kuta people were doing it."

- War on waste -

Some 72 kilometres from Kuta, Mount Agung has been threatening to erupt for two months, prompting tourists to cancel visits and displacing tens of thousands of villagers living within a 10 kilometre-radius of the volcano's crater.

But the island's waste problem is no less of a threat, said I Gede Hendrawan, an environmental oceanography researcher from Bali's Udayana University.

"Garbage is aesthetically disturbing to tourists, but plastic waste issue is way more serious," he told AFP.

"Microplastics can contaminate fish which, if eaten by humans, could cause health problems including cancer."

Indonesia is one of nearly 40 countries that are part of UN Environment's Clean Seas campaign, which aims to halt the tide of plastic trash polluting the oceans.

As part of its commitment, the government has pledged to reduce marine plastic waste by 70 percent by 2025.

It plans to boost recycling services, curb the use of plastic bags, launch cleanup campaigns and raise public awareness.

Still, the scale of the problem facing Indonesia is huge, due to its population of more than 250 million and poor waste processing infrastructure.

Hendrawan, who says both locals and tourists are responsible for the island's rubbish problem, urged authorities to invest more resources to tackle the problem.

"The Bali government should spare more budget to raise people's awareness to take care of local rivers, not to dump waste," he said.

"The central government should boost the campaign to reduce use of plastic packaging and ban free plastic bags at convenient stores."

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The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced changes to the business hours of its entire services during the New Year’s holiday.

Service outlets include customers’ happiness centres, paid parking zones, public buses, Dubai metro and tram, marine transit modes, driving schools and vehicle testing & registration centres.

Yousef Al Reda, CEO of RTA’s Corporate Administrative Support Services Sector, said, "Customers Happiness Centers would be closed during the New Year’s holiday from Sunday 31st December 2017 and resume duty on Tuesday 2nd January 2018.

All paid parking zones will be free across the emirate (except for the multi-level parking lots) starting from Sunday 31st December 2017. Parking fees will be reactivated on Tuesday 2nd January 2018.

During the holiday, the Dubai Metro working hours will be as follows: From Sunday 31st December 2017, the Red Line metro stations will operate from 05:00 am to 00:00 (midnight) on Tuesday 2nd January 2018. From Sunday 31st December 2017, the Green Line metro stations will operate from 05:30 am to 00:00 (midnight) on Tuesday 2nd January 2018.

From Sunday 31st December 2017, the Dubai Tram will operate from 06:00 am up to 01:00 am (of the following day) Tuesday 2nd January 2018.

From 31st December 2017 to 1st Jan 2018, the service timing of public buses (Dubai Bus) will be as follows: Main stations, such as Gold Souq, will operate from 04:25 am up to 00:29 (past midnight). Al Ghubaiba Station will be open from 04:16 am up to 01:00 am (of the following day).

Sub-stations, such as Satwa, will start from 05:00 am to 11:00 pm (except for Route C01, which will operate around-the-clock). Al Qusais Station will run from 04:30 am to 00:00 (midnight), and Al Quoz Industrial Station from 05:00 am to 11:30 pm. At Jebel Ali Station, the service will start at 05:00 am and continue up to 11:30 pm.

Metro link bus stations (Rashidiya, Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battuta, Burj Khalifa, Abu Hail, and Etisalat) will be in service from 05:00 am to 02:20 am (of the following day). The timing of all metro link bus routes will be synchronised with the scheduled timings of the metro service.

During the holiday, inter-city bus service will be operating as follows: Main stations such as Al Ghubaiba will be operating around-the-clock to Sharjah (Jubail) Station, while Abu Dhabi service will be running from 04:30 am up to 00:00 am (midnight). Substations, such as Union Square, will be in service from 04:30 am up to 01:25 am (of the following day). Al Sabkha Station will run bus service from 06:15 am to 01:30 am (of the following day), and at Deira City Centre Station the service will start from 05:35 am until 11:30 pm. At Karama Station, the service will start from 06:10 am to 10:20 pm, and Al Ahli Club Station from 05:55 am to 10:15 pm.

External Stations, such as Sharjah’s Al Taawun Route, will open from 05:30 am until 10:00 pm, Ajman Route from 04:27 am until 11:00 pm. Fujairah Route service will run from 05:23 am until 09:30 pm and Hatta Route will be operational from 05:30 am until 09:30 pm.

The timing of marine transit services will be as follows: from Sunday 31st December 2017, the Water Bus will run at Marina Stations (Marina Mall, Marina Walk, Marina Terrace, and Marina Promenade) from 12:00 (at noon) up to 08:00 pm. On Monday 1st January 2018, the Water Bus will operate at Marina Stations (Marina Mall, Marina Walk, Marina Terrace, and Marina Promenade) from 12:00 (at noon) up to 00:00 (midnight).

From Sunday 31st December 2017 to Monday 1st January 2018, the Water Taxi will be in operation from 09:00 am up to 10:00 pm.

On Sunday 31st December 2017, The Dubai Ferry will be calling at Al Ghubaiba Station two times (at 11:00 am and 01:00 pm), and at Dubai Marina Station four times (at 11:00 am, 01:00 pm, 03:00 pm and 05:00 pm).

The Ferry will be making two journeys from Al Jaddaf Station to the Dubai Water Canal Stations (at 10:00 am and 12:00 at noon), and two journeys from the Dubai Water Canal to Al Jaddaf Station (at 12:05 at noon, and 02:05 pm).

On Monday 01st January 2018, the Ferry will make five journeys at both Al Ghubaiba station (at 11:00 am, 01:00 pm, 03:00 pm, 05:00 pm and 06:30 pm), and Dubai Marina Station (at 11:00 am, 01:00 pm, 03:00 pm, 05:00 pm and 06:30 pm).

The Ferry will make two journeys from Jaddaf Station to the Dubai Water Canal Station at 12:00 (at noon) and 05:30 pm, and two journeys from the Dubai Water Canal Station to Jaddaf Station at 02:05 pm and 07:35 pm.

On Sunday 31st December 2017, abras will be operating as follows: Traditional abra will run from Dubai Creek Station (Al Ghubaiba) from 10:00 am to 08:00 pm. Electric abra at the Global Village will operate from 04:00 pm to 00:00 (midnight). Air-conditioned abras will operate at Al Jaddaf and Dubai Festival City stations from 07:00 am up to 08:00 pm.

On Monday 01st January 2018, abras will be operating as follows: Traditional abras will be running from Dubai Creek Stations (Al Ghubaiba, Baniyas, Dubai Old Souq, and Al Seef) from 10:00 am to 00:00 (midnight). Electric abras at the Global Village will be operating from 04:00 pm to 00:00 (midnight). Air-conditioned abra will operate at Al Jaddaf and Dubai Festival City stations from 07:00 am to 00:00 (midnight). Electric abras will operate as follows: At Burj Khalifa from 06:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Fahidi Station (round trip) between 12.00 (at noon) to 04:00 pm, Al Mamzar from 02:00 pm to 00:00 (midnight), and Sheikh Zayed Road from 04:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

"All service provider centres, as well as vehicles testing and registration centres, will be closed during the New Year’s holiday from Sunday 31 December 2017 to Monday 01 January 2018, and resume business on Tuesday 2 January 2018," concluded Al Reda.

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Shah Rukh Khan is trying to kick the butt. He has been trying for a while now, but has made a conscious effort now, “I have reduced smoking,” confirms SRK. Often criticised and once fined for smoking in public, SRK is trying hard to let go of the cancer stick.

Shah Rukh who is now working on his film with Aanand L Rai has been watching a few films of late as well to make sure that he is occupied. “I saw Lipstick Under My Burkha, just to sound intellectual,” he guffaws.

I saw Aanand sir’s (Aanand L Rai) film with that very long name - Shubh Mangal Savdhan. And then I saw Dangal. Dangal released last year, but I saw it this year. I saw Ek Tha Tiger as well, I mean Tiger Zinda Hai,” he laughs and corrects his faux pas.

And then continuing his tongue in cheek comment, he adds, “Bareilly Ki Barfi was also very sweet.”

Meanwhile on Salman Khan's birthday bash, Ali Abbas Zafar and Katrina Kaif from the Tiger Zinda Hai team ushered in Khan’s birthday at his Panvel farmhouse, and many regulars like Sajid Wajid, Ramesh Taurani, Sooraj Pancholi, Vatsal Sheth, Angad Bedi, Kishen Kumar, Kailash Surendranath, Vaibhavi Merchant were present. Interestingly Indian stumper Mahendra Singh Dhoni also drove down to  the birthday after attending Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli’s wedding reception in Mumbai. News anchor Rajat Sharma and politician Baba Siddiqui also arrived late into the night.

Katrina Kaif also had just arrived from the Virushka wedding reception and she even changed into a tee and jeans casting aside her fancy gown from the do.

But Shah Rukh Khan gave it a miss because he wanted to spend time with his Aryan who is in town. “My children are here and hence I cannot go. So, I sent Salman a message. His birthday can be celebrated anytime this month,” laughs Shah Rukh Khan.

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Till date, it was being believed that it was the decision of producer Prerna Arora and actor Anil Kapoor that their film Fanne Khan will clash with Salman Khan’s Race 3 during the forthcoming Eid next year. But then sources reveal that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was very much in the loop and it happened with her consent.

Arora confirms the same. “Of course, Aishwarya is the lead actress and she was in the know of when we wanted to release the film and the date has been finalised with her consent,” says Arora about the release date.

Interestingly Aishwarya is doing one more film for Prerna and team and this one is going to be directed by Siddharth Anand. We are also being told by sources in the trade that the film is a take off on Satyen Bose’s film Raat Aur Din where Nargis Dutt had essayed a character with a multiple personality disorder in a National Award-winning role opposite Firoz Khan and Pradeep Kumar.  The film released 50 years ago in 1967 and two men will be cast opposite Rai in the movie.

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A Zimbabwean family has been marooned at Bangkok's main airport for two months, Thai immigration police said Thursday, an ordeal over the holiday season that has drawn widespread sympathy among Thais.

The family, four adults and four children - who are aged between two and 11-years-old - have tried to leave Thailand since late October.

But they lack visas for onward travel, refuse to return to Zimbabwe and are denied re-entry to the kingdom after overstaying, trapping them in limbo in the airside area of the airport.

Their predicament first emerged after a Thai Facebook user posted a photo of himself giving one of the children a Christmas present.

The post, which explained their predicament, went viral as questions emerged as to how they had lived at the airport for so long.

Comparisons were quickly made with the 2004 film "The Terminal," in which a man played by Tom Hanks finds himself stuck in a New York airport after his government collapses, rendering his papers useless.

Immigration police said the family entered Thailand in May on tourist visas.

On October 23 they tried to fly to Spain via Ukraine, but were denied by the airline as they lacked Spanish visas.

As they had overstayed their Thai visas by several months they were banned from re-entering the country.

They are trapped as they have also "refused to return to Zimbabwe citing their fear for their for their safety due to unrest in Zimbabwe," the official said, requesting anonymity.

Airlines have been providing them with food.

Zimbabwe's military pushed out 93-year-old despot Robert Mugabe in November paving the way for a transition from decades of mismanagement and authoritarian rule.

But there has been little unrest and the new president has encouraged Zimbabweans who fled under Mugabe's rule to return home.

The family have applied for asylum hoping to be resettled outside of Thailand, which does not formally accept refugees.

Vivian Tan, a spokeswoman for the UN refugee agency in Bangkok said the UNHCR was "currently exploring potential solutions" for the family but could not provide more details for confidentiality reasons.

With visa-on-arrival agreements with many countries, Thailand has long been a destination for those fleeing civil strife and poverty.

But it does not allow refugees to legally settle in the kingdom, meaning those seeking asylum need to a find a third country option.

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The Roads and Transports Authority, RTA, will open Phase II of the Traffic Diversion Project stretching from Sheikh Khalifa Street in the direction of the Dubai World Trade Centre R/A and vice versa.

It also runs from Al Garhoud in the direction of Al Mina through Sheikh Rashid Street and vice versa. These diversions, which extend 4 kilometres, maintain the same number of existing lanes to ensure a smooth flow of traffic without adversely affecting the current traffic volume, and avoid potential congestion.

An integrated plan had been prepared for the existing traffic diversions in both directions of Sheikh Rashid and Sheikh Khalifa streets. The overall objective is to safeguard the safety of road users and ensure a smooth flow of traffic. The diversion is expected to remain in place until late April 2018.

The working area will be completely separated to minimise the inconvenience caused to road users and residents of neighbouring areas. The engineering design of the temporary traffic diversions conforms to the specifications of permanent roads in terms of engineering design standards and adequate lighting, according to the design speed of the road to ensure the safety of road users.

A surface signalised junction will be installed at the intersection for all directions along with U-turns to ensure the safe movement of traffic on the Sheikh Khalifa and Sheikh Rashid streets until the completion of the project. It will help streamline traffic movement at the intersection of Sheikh Rashid Street and Sheikh Khalifa Street.

The construction is in progress and most of the bridge and tunnel works have been completed. The project includes the construction of a two-lane flyover in each direction on Sheikh Khalifa Street for those heading to and from Al Karama without having to wait for the light signal. Works include the construction of a four-lane tunnel to serve traffic to and from Port Rashid through Sheikh Rashid Street and a one-lane bridge, which was completed in the early stages of the project, to ensure free traffic movement from Zabeel Street to Sheikh Rashid Street in the direction of the west (Al Mina).

The construction of this intersection represents the first phase of projects that the RTA intends to construct on the Al Shandagha roads network. It is part of the integrated study and plan charted by the RTA to accommodate the expected increase in the number of vehicles, which will contribute to solving the congestion issue at the intersection.

The RTA calls upon road users to abide by the traffic laws, follow the signals and cautionary signs, and adhere to the speed limit to ensure safe and smooth transport for all.

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Emirates Post Group, EPG, has encouraged customers to renew their Post Office Box subscriptions before 31st January 2018, to avoid late renewal penalties.

Obaid Mohammed Al Qatami, Acting Chief Commercial Officer of EPG, said, "We urge all our customers to renew their P.O. Box subscriptions before the above mentioned date by visiting any of EPG’s post offices to apply/renew in person or can also do so electronically via EPG website or Mobile Services app."

Companies can customise P.O. Box rental services to optimise their mail operations. They can also subscribe to Ezimail for the added convenience of having their mail picked-up and delivered directly to the registered P.O. Box or office location.

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England rejected ball-tampering allegations as a "beat-up" on Friday as rain frustrated their push for their first victory of the Ashes series against Australia.

England's Alastair Cook carried his bat for a world-record 244 not out before David Warner, unbeaten on 40, and captain Steve Smith, on 25, defied the visiting bowlers on a rain-truncated day.

When the match umpires called off play at 5:20 pm (0620 GMT), after persistent rain, Australia were 103 for two and trailing by 61 runs with a day remaining.

Extended hours will be played on the final day on Saturday as England press for their first win of the series, in which Australia hold an unbeatable 3-0 lead.

"Any time there's a bit of rain and you're on top in the game it's a bit frustrating, but we've got an opportunity tomorrow to win and that's the attitude we've got to take," England coach Trevor Bayliss told reporters.

"We showed in the first innings that we can take a number of wickets reasonably quickly.

"So, 98 overs tomorrow, it's more than enough time if we play well to force a result."

Bayliss also slammed claims of tampering after footage of England bowler James Anderson working the ball with his thumbnail drew suspicions.

"I'm not sure you are allowed to use your fingernail there," former Test spinner Shane Warne said on the Channel Nine TV coverage.

Fellow former Test star Michael Slater added: "That's interesting, you can't get your nail into the ball. That's a no-no."

Anderson, skipper Joe Root and fellow fast bowler Stuart Broad were involved in discussions with umpires Sundaram Ravi and Kumar Dharmasena.

'He was scratching the wrong side' 

But Bayliss said the umpires had later told him that the allegations were trumped up.

"It's a beat-up. As soon as I saw the headlines I raced into the umpires and that was their words: 'Nothing to worry about, it was a beat-up, absolutely fine'," Bayliss said.

"The umpires spoke to both captains during this game about throwing the ball into rough areas.

"Every team in the world does that and obviously the umpires don't want it to go overboard and both teams have taken it on board.

"I did see the footage and if he (Anderson) was trying to scratch it then he was scratching the wrong (shiny) side for it to go reverse. I'm quite sure that wasn't the case."

The match referee Ranjan Madugalle said after the day's play there would be no report into the allegations.

Earlier, England were all out on their overnight total of 491 on the first ball of the day, when Anderson was caught by Cameron Bancroft off Pat Cummins for a duck.

It meant that Cook achieved the highest score of anyone carrying his bat - the rare feat of batting throughout the innings - in Test cricket, bettering New Zealand's Glenn Turner's 223 not out against the West Indies in Kingston in 1972.

The last Englishman to carry his bat in Tests was Mike Atherton, who scored 94 in New Zealand in 1997.

Cook set a number of records on Thursday's third day, when he surpassed the highest score by a visiting batsman in a Melbourne Test, bettering the 208 by West Indian great Viv Richards in 1984.

As Australia began their second innings 164 runs behind, England snared the wickets of Bancroft and Usman Khawaja to send jitters through the home side.

Bancroft chopped Chris Woakes on to his stumps on 27, while Khawaja was caught behind off Anderson for 11.

England take early wickets in push for 4th Ashes Test win

Australia made a nervous start, losing two wickets, as they reduced England's lead to 94 runs on the fourth day of the fourth Ashes Test in Melbourne on Friday.

The tourists, with all the momentum after Alastair Cook's record-breaking innings of 244 not out, snared the wickets of Cameron Bancroft and Usman Khawaja to send the jitters through the home side.

At lunch, the Australians were 70 for two with David Warner on 28 and Steve Smith not out four.

Bancroft hit four fours before he chopped Chris Woakes on to his stumps on 27, while Khawaja was caught behind off James Anderson for 11.

England, pressing for their first victory in the already-decided Ashes series, were all out on their overnight total of 491 on the first ball of the day.

Anderson was caught by Bancroft at bat-pad off Pat Cummins for a duck to end the innings. Cummins finished with four for 117.

It meant that Cook achieved the highest score of anyone carrying his bat - the rare feat of batting throughout the innings - in Test cricket, bettering New Zealand's Glenn Turner's 223 not out against the West Indies in Kingston in 1972.

The last Englishman to carry his bat through a Test innings was Mike Atherton's 94 in New Zealand in 1997, while Geoff Boycott last carried his bat through an Ashes innings with an unbeaten 99 in Perth in 1979.

Cook set a number of records on Thursday's third day, when he surpassed the highest score by a visiting batsman in a Melbourne Test, bettering the 208 by West Indian great Viv Richards in 1984.

Cook's fifth double-century also catapulted him above West Indian Brian Lara to become the sixth highest run-getter in Test cricket with 11,956.

England have the two remaining days of the Melbourne Test to get a result and win their first Test of the series after relinquishing the Ashes in the first three losing Tests.

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Gold rates for Friday, December 29, 2017

Get retail Gold and Forex rates with Emirates 24|7 

Emirates 24|7 brings you the daily Dubai gold rate (22k, 24k, 21k and 18k), as well as currency exchange rates, including the Indian rupee, Pakistani rupee, Philippine peso, Sri Lankan rupee, sterling pound, euro and may more against the UAE dirham (US dollar).

The rates for 24 carat, 22 carat, 21 carat, 18 carat and Ten Tola (TT) Bar (11.6638038 gram) will be updated four times a day to keep them fresh and relevant for buyers of gold bars and gold jewellery in the UAE.

The update times for Retail Gold Rate in Dubai will be at 9.30am, 2.30pm, 5pm and 8pm (unless there is drastic fall or rise in the international rate).

On Saturdays, the gold rates will be updated at 9.30am and this rate will stay static through Saturday and Sunday until the international market reopens on Monday.

Please note that the retailers add making charges separately to the quoted rate of gold.

The Retail Gold Rate in Dubai is being supplied by the Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group.

Foreign Exchange Rates

The Foreign Exchange Rates of major currencies will be updated twice each working day at around 8:30am and 3:30pm.

These will cover both the Remittance Rates [for sending money] and the Currency Notes Rates [for buying and selling of currency notes].

The Foreign Exchange Rates are being supplied by UAE Exchange.

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Apple on Thursday apologized to its customers for slowing down performance of older iPhone models and said it would discount replacement batteries for some of its handsets.

The move by Apple responded to an uproar from iPhone users - and a series of lawsuits - after news of the battery problems stoked concerns the company was unfairly nudging consumers to upgrade.

"We know that some of you feel Apple has let you down. We apologize," Apple said in a message to customers on its website.

"We've always wanted our customers to be able to use their iPhones as long as possible. We're proud that Apple products are known for their durability, and for holding their value longer than our competitors' devices."

Apple said it was reducing the price of an out-of-warranty iPhone battery replacement from $79 to $29 for anyone with an iPhone 6 or later whose battery needs to be replaced, starting in late January through December 2018.

The company said it also would issue a software update to make it easier for customers to see if an aging battery is affecting performance.

"As always, our team is working on ways to make the user experience even better, including improving how we manage performance and avoid unexpected shutdowns as batteries age," the statement said.

The controversy erupted last week after Apple acknowledged a feature to "smooth out" spikes in demand for power to prevent iPhone 6 models from shutting down due to the cold or weak batteries.

Rumors had persisted for years at tech news websites devoted to Apple products and among fans of the company's products that iPhone performance was being intentionally slowed, perhaps to push users to buy newer models.

Apple's latest statement said that "we have never - and would never - do anything to intentionally shorten the life of any Apple product, or degrade the user experience to drive customer upgrades."

But it noted that "batteries are consumable components that become less effective as they chemically age" and that factors such as heat can affect performance.

Apple said a software update last year "manages the maximum performance of some system components when needed to prevent a shutdown" and that "in some cases users may experience longer launch times for apps and other reductions in performance."

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A plane crash in Texas last year that killed three people from Oklahoma was the result of the pilot flying too slowly, which caused the plane to stall out, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.

The NTSB report on the crash determined that the pilot, Dana Gray, was trying to land at Hobby Airport in Houston when the plane went down. But the agency noted that air traffic controllers trying to help Gray land may have confused her with an “unnecessarily complex clearance during a critical phase of flight.”

Also on board were her husband, Tony, and his brother, Jerry. All three were from Moore, Oklahoma.

Security camera footage shows air traffic controllers tried to assist the pilot in her landing, KWTV-TV reported. They had ordered Gray to circle around the airport to land, but she was coming in too high. Controllers distracted her when she was attempting to land a third time, according to an NTSB report.

“The complex instructions from the second local controller during the pilot’s go-around following her third landing attempt, were unnecessary at that time and likely distracted the pilot from monitoring critical flight parameters,” according to the report.

The report noted Gray had been taking a medication for insomnia that the Federal Aviation Administration warns against using if flying.

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The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the Digital Kiosk intended to facilitate the processing of transactions and services offered to taxi drivers. It also avails them access to efficient and speedy services through using smart technologies that nurture an advanced and interactive business environment.

"The Digital Kiosk is operated through a smart app on smartphones. It enables the taxi driver to apply for leave, salary certificate, insurance details, test results, and Dubai map in addition to reporting a traffic accident and other applications related to travel or driving license," said Ammar Al Buraiki, Director of Resources and Support, DTC. The applications can be retrieved from the Digital Kiosk in the Head Office of the DTC. The app has an early distress call feature linking the cab driver with the Control Center during emergencies and crises, and enabling the positioning of the vehicle in order to deliver the required assistance," he continued.

"The launch of the Digital Kiosk is part of the efforts in support of the Smart City initiative of our government to rank Dubai as the smartest and happiest city worldwide and replicates RTA’s first strategic goal (Smart Dubai).

The DTC assigns paramount importance to drivers and makes every effort to recognise and reward their excellent efforts. It also develops plans and attends to improving the current affairs to cater to the needs and expectations of employees and clients through applying the highest standards and latest technologies.

"This initiative heralds a quantum shift in boosting the excellent services of the DTC which is making significant advances and achievements in the use of information technology. It is always in pursuit of creative techniques in delivering smart services and enhancing the digital transformation," added Al Buraiki.

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