General
UAE visa changes 2026 explained: New categories, sponsorship rules, easier entry for tourists
The UAE has implemented significant visa reforms for 2026, introducing new categories for tech, culture and cruise tourism. These changes also include updated sponsorship rules for residents, expanded visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals and a broader Golden Visa program. Humanitarian permits and administrative updates further streamline the immigration process, positioning the UAE as a global hub.
Oman announces new fees for citizenship and nationality applications
Oman has introduced a new fee structure for citizenship and nationality services, effective January 4, 2026. Applications for Omani citizenship, including those by foreign spouses, widows, divorced spouses, and minor children of Omani women, now cost OMR 600, while requests to withdraw or relinquish nationality are set at OMR 200. The changes aim to streamline procedures without altering eligibility rules.
US hotel that denied rooms to ICE agents was bought by four Indian-Americans for $15 million
In Lakeville, Minnesota, a Hampton Inn has sparked controversy after its new Indian ownership turned away reservations from ICE and DHS agents, allegedly guided by a principle of non-cooperation with immigration enforcement. While Hilton clarified that such actions do not align with the company's ethos, both the hotel management and Hilton expressed regret and reaffirmed their dedication to inclusivity.
'It’s so stupid it hurts': Candace Owens blasts CIA narrative after Charlie Kirk assassination sparks fresh public outrage
Candace Owens has renewed her criticism of the CIA and rejected official claims in the Charlie Kirk killing. In a January 3, 2026 post on X, she called the investigation a failure. Authorities deny her claims, citing evidence against the accused suspect. The debate has sparked sharp backlash and deep online division.
Twitch streamer Swifty unbanned after brief suspension, thanks fans for support
Veteran Twitch streamer Swifty is back online after a surprising temporary ban that halted his 14-year career. The World of Warcraft personality was suspended following IRL food delivery streams, intended to boost income during slow ad revenue months. Community support and rapid appeals led to his swift unbanning, much to the relief of his dedicated fanbase.
'Stop the fantasy of occupation...', Greenland's PM lashes out at US after Trump's threat
The United States has no need to annex Greenland, nor does it have the right to annex any part of the Danish Empire," said Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, which is a member of NATO and already has a defense pact with the United States. The 1951 defense agreement allows the US to have a military base in Greenland.
The lawyer who fought Julian Assange's case in the US, Maduro's case is also with him, know about him
According to a separate filing, former federal prosecutor Mark Donnelly, who lives in Houston, is fighting the case of Maduro's wife. He served as an investigator in the investigation and impeachment trial of state Attorney General Ken Paxton for the Texas House of Representatives in 2023. Paxton was acquitted. He is currently running for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate. Who is Julian Assange, what was the case?;
Birgunj lockdown: Nepal imposes curfew till 8 am today amid communal clashes, mosque vandalism
Nepal's Parsa District Administration Office (DAO) has imposed strict prohibitory orders, effectively a curfew, in key areas of Birgunj Metropolitan City, bordering India, lasting until 8:00 am on Tuesday (January 6). Announced on Monday (January 5), the measures ban all gatherings, assemblies, processions, and demonstrations from 1:00 pm, aiming to quell rising communal tensions. Signed by Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal, the order invokes Section 6(3A) of the Local Administration Act, 2028, with violators facing immediate arrest and legal action.
'Can raise tariffs on them very quickly': Trump warns India over Russian oil imports, praises PM Modi
United States President Donald Trump has once again issued a strong warning to India, stating that Washington could raise tariffs on Indian goods "very quickly" if New Delhi's energy and trade policies do not align with American expectations. The remarks were revealed in an audio clip released by the White House, where Trump directly linked India's decisions on Russian oil to his personal dissatisfaction.
Indian woman found dead with stab wounds in ex-boyfriend's apartment in US; suspect fled to India
A 27-year-old Indian woman, who was reported missing last week, has been found dead in the United States, with police suspecting that her former boyfriend killed her and fled to India. The deceased, identified as Nikitha Godishala, a resident of Ellicott City, was reported missing on January 2.
RECENT NEWS
- UAE visa changes 2026 explained: New categories, sponsorship rules, easier entry for tourists
- Oman announces new fees for citizenship and nationality applications
- US hotel that denied rooms to ICE agents was bought by four Indian-Americans for $15 million
- 'It’s so stupid it hurts': Candace Owens blasts CIA narrative after Charlie Kirk assassination sparks fresh public outrage
- Twitch streamer Swifty unbanned after brief suspension, thanks fans for support
