MARCH 03, 2025

BY Imoh Bright 

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the temporary closure of Runway 18R/36L at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, for rehabilitation work. The closure, scheduled for March 3 and 4, comes just two weeks after the runway was reopened following an 11-month maintenance shutdown.

In a memo dated February 28, J.U. Nwosu, FAAN’s Head of Operations, cited safety concerns, stating that construction equipment at the A2 Taxiway-link could pose a hazard to landing and departing aircraft. The memo, addressed to the Airport Manager and the Regional General Manager for the Southwest Region, emphasised the necessity of the closure to prevent operational risks.

During the closure, the shorter domestic runway, 18L/36R, will handle all flight operations. While this runway is functional, its capacity constraints may lead to potential delays for both domestic and international flights.

FAAN has directed technical departments to enhance security, inspect facilities, and enforce 24-hour surveillance to ensure smooth operations.

This latest closure follows an extended maintenance period for Runway 18R/36L, which was initially shut down in March 2023 for what was projected to be an eight-week maintenance project.

However, delays extended the closure for several months, disrupting airline schedules and increasing congestion at the airport.

Industry stakeholders have since expressed concerns about the frequency of extended maintenance closures at one of Nigeria’s busiest international gateways.

Despite the temporary closure, FAAN assured airlines and passengers that necessary measures would be in place to mitigate disruptions. The authority highlighted that Links 2 and 3 of the taxiway are now operational, providing an alternative route for international flights alongside the use of 18L/36R.

FAAN also urged airlines, passengers, and airport stakeholders to cooperate with airport management as efforts are made to enhance safety and infrastructure reliability at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

MARCH 03, 2025

BY Lekha Menon · Contributor

The tallest building, highest observation wheel, longest driverless metro, largest mall aquarium, Dubai is a city that loves superlatives. The emirate doesn’t do half-measures; it innovates as a futuristic metropolis driven by high-tech advancements and cutting-edge architecture, and is now a global tourist destination.

In 2024, Dubai saw 16.79 million visitors and 39.19 million room bookings with Dubai International Airport (DXB) retaining its crown as the world’s busiest airport with 923 million passengers. Western Europe accounted for 20% of the guests, with 1.2 million of them British.

Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 high net worth individuals have traded the grey skies and tax burdens of their homeland for the sun-kissed tax-free allure of Jumeirah.

However, amid all the glitz, Dubai isn’t just for the ultra-rich. There are ways to enjoy Dubai’s bling on a budget.

When to visit

With average temperatures of 15-20C, Dubai winters are a delight, with outdoor markets, pool days, desert camps and al fresco brunches.

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However, December and January are also marked by the annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and New Year's Eve celebrations which means massive crowds and tariffs hitting over £1,310 per night. For great weather at better prices, consider October to December or March to May.

That said, don’t discount summer. The heat can feel unbearable but due to Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) – a programme of deals, activities and entertainment running throughout the summer – you could get amazing hotel rates in key locations from £65 per night. So if you are willing to swap sandy beaches for shiny malls and immersive indoor fun, May to September could be a sweet spot.

Where to stay

Some of the city’s poshest areas offer affordable stays for those who know where to look.

Skip influencer-recommended resorts and search for steal deals. For instance, in Palm Jumeirah, hotels like Aloft offer sea views from as little as £66 per night in July.

Consider properties near metro stations such as Rove Hotels, Citymax or Premier Inn. To cut costs even further, check out Facebook groups like That Dubai Girl, Expats in Dubai and Dubai Short Term Rentals.

Dubai travel hacks

1. Local SIM card

Data isn’t cheap in the UAE so grab a tourist SIM at Dubai International Airport and choose a package from any of the three telecom major majors — Du, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile. The cheapest plan starts at £11, which you can top up as required.

2. Nol travel card

Dubai’s clean and easy-to-navigate metro is connected to most tourist hotspots. Buy a silver or gold Nol card at any station and use it to travel without spending a fortune. A word of caution – expect crowds at peak hours.

What to do in Dubai

Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

If indulgence had a permanent address, it would be The Dubai Mall, crowned 2024’s "most visited place on earth". With more than 1,200 stores and 200 eateries, an ice rink, rooftop go-karting, artificial waterfall, museum and Virtual Reality Park to name just a few, it’s a retail paradise. Entry is free and pocket-friendly activities include skating (from £20) or VR Park (from £9).

Settling down at one of the promenade cafes to watch the Dubai Mall fountain show where water jets dance to music and lights every 30 minutes in the foreground of the Burj Khalifa is free entertainment on 365 nights a year.

Getting there: Exit at Dubai Mall station and take the travelator directly into the mall.

Sheikh Zayed Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard

Downtown Dubai features an illuminated tree-lined boulevard with upscale cafes which offer great spots for people watching over a whiff of sheesha and a gourmet meal.

The street also features fine-dining restaurants, the magnificent Dubai Opera, plush nightclubs and sky-high residences.

Be sure to snap photo of yourself at the Wings of Mexico statue – definitely one for the Instagram grid.

Dubai on a cruise

Exploring Dubai by water offers a unique glimpse into its diverse charms.

For a luxe feel, set sail from Palm West Beach on Palm Jumeirah, the world's largest man-made archipelago, with a sunset cruise from here offering spectacular views of resorts like Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal. Aboard a sleek private yacht, you can even bring your own food and drinks with a price tag from £17.

Getting there: Take the tram to Palm Jumeirah station, then hop in a cab to reach Palm West Beach for around £2.60.

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A few kilometres away, Dubai Marina is a lively district with soaring skyscrapers and a buzzing promenade and offers more diverse options – from high-end yachts from £22 to affordable government-operated water taxis from £1.50 for the same route.

Getting there: Exit at Sobha Realty station and walk to the promenade.

At the other end of town, traditional wooden dhows navigate Dubai’s famous creek in what is a nostalgic, intimate contrast to the marina’s sparkle. The best boarding point is Al Seef, a charming neighbourhood, with tickets starting at £9.

Getting there: Alight at Burjuman metro station and walk 10 minutes to Al Seef.

Bluewaters Island

A man-made island destination featuring luxury high rises, hotels, high-end dining and Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel.

While not a budget stop, the promenade offers free, postcard-worthy views of the gulf and Dubai’s skyline. It's particularly worth a visit during DSF and DSS, when 1,000 drones take to the skies for a spectacular show every night.

Getting there: Take the tram to Jumeirah Beach Residence 2 from Dubai Marina metro station, walk along the beach and take the connecting bridge to Bluewaters.

Madinat Jumeirah

A space where Arabian charm meets modern luxury, Madinat Jumeirah is all about winding waterways, lantern-lit pathways, the hippest restaurants and bars and exquisite but expensive souvenirs. Close up views of iconic and sail-shaped hotel the Burj Al Arab are an added bonus.

Getting there: A taxi ride from Mall of the Emirates metro station.

Al Fahidi Heritage District

In a city obsessed with the future, Al Fahidi Heritage District or Bastakiya is a rare peek into the past. Of course, it’s built for purpose but its narrow alleyways, hidden art galleries and cafes are truly charming. And for those who love discovering a city through food, the Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, a Michelin Bib Gourmand gem, blends history with hearty Emirati flavours. Stop by for a plate of cheese sambousa (£7.50) or chicken majboos (£3).

Getting there: Exit Al Fahidi metro station. Bastakiya is a 10-minute walk.

A cheap abra ride to the souks

The AED1 (22p) abra ride is one of those touristy must-dos that never gets boring. The short and scenic ride aboard a rickety wooden boat along the Dubai Creek, takes you to the lively souks for just a dirham.

The Gold Souk is the star, with blinding window displays of gold, diamond and gemstone jewellery. Just a short walk away, the Spice Souk hits your senses with the fragrance of saffron, cinnamon and dried roses spilling from oversized jute sacks. Nearby, the Utensil Souk beckons with traditional cookware.

Bargaining is a must. So, channel your inner haggler and get the best deals on Arabic perfumes, spices and bags.

Getting there: Exit at the Al Ghubaiba station, follow the signs toward the creek bustling with traditional wooden abras.

Global Village

Running for six months each winter, sprawling cultural haven the Global Village on the outskirts of Dubai is a tapestry of art, music, shopping and traditions from around the globe.

With more than 26 country pavilions, here you can find everything from faux fur coats from Afghanistan, jewellery from India or handicrafts from Ghana.

Entry costs £5.

Getting there: Special buses run from the Mall of the Emirates metro station for £2.20.

Beach fun

With vibrant beach clubs, Dubai’s shores offer an irresistible sunny escape. Head to The Beach, JBR, a waterfront hub buzzing with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants for a classic beach day. Take a morning dip and grab breakfast by the beach at Eggspectation or Operation Falafel.

If you prefer a laid-back, sporty vibe, try Kite Beach. Quieter and less commercial, it’s popular for kitesurfing, beach volleyball and skating, plus its scenic running track lining the coast.

One of Dubai’s few designated night-swimming beaches, Umm Suqeim Beach features extra lighting, digital safety screens and lifeguards for a safe moonlit dip.

Entry to all these beaches is free.

Desert pop-ups

Desert pop-up cafes are seasonal, off-the-beaten-path gems that provide exclusive escapes amid vast dunes and starry skies.

Some standout spots include Parker’s, My Coffee Space, One Degree Cafe and the Caia Bamboo, all known for their affordable yet stylish ambiance. Other spots spread across Sharjah, Al Faya Desert and Al Marmoom desert offer similar experiences. The cost varies from around £10 to £45 including food, coffee and activities.

Getting there: Rent a car and drive down.

How to eat for less

Karak and shawarma

Buy rich, spiced and milky karak tea (22p) and a shawarma (£1.50–£3) from a roadside cafe for an unbeatable combination.

Karama, Bur Dubai and Deira’s Joint

These areas are your best bet for hearty, flavourful and inexpensive bites where a meal for two costs around £15. Al Ustad deserves a special mention for its authentic Persian kebabs.

Waterfront market

Dubai's Waterfront Market is a massive fish, meat and vegetable market that also houses beautiful seaside restaurants where you can watch fresh seafood being cooked. A meal for two costs around £10 to £25.

Global Village

Beyond shopping, Global Village is a foodie’s paradise with more than 200 eateries serving everything from boreks and biryanis to Bosnian kebabs and sushi. Don’t miss the floating market for mouthwatering Asian street food.

MARCH 04, 2025

By Abdullateef Aliyu

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) on Wednesday released its 2024 Annual Safety Report indicating that there were 40.6 million flights in 2024 and seven fatal accidents.

The report indicated that Africa recorded the highest rate of accidents but with zero fatalities.

For the African region, there were 10 accidents in 2024, showing the all-accident rate rose from 8.36 per million sectors in 2023 to 10.59 in 2024, exceeding the five-year average of 8.46.

Africa (AFI) recorded the highest accident rate, though the fatality risk remained at zero for the second year in a row.

The most common accident types in 2024 were runway excursions, followed by those related to landing gear, according to the report, adding that 40 per cent of all accidents involving AFI-based operators were on turboprop aircraft.

Globally, IATA, representing some 340 airlines comprising more than 80% of global air traffic, reports that the industry delivered another year of strong overall performance on safety including showing improvements on the five-year average for several key parameters, but it took a step back from an exceptional performance in 2023.

The all-accident rate of 1.13 per million flights (one accident per 880,000 flights) was better than the five-year average of 1.25 but worse than the 1.09 recorded in 2023.

There were seven fatal accidents in 2024, on 40.6 million flights. That is higher than the single fatal accident recorded in 2023 and the five-year average of five fatal accidents.

The report indicated that there were 244 onboard fatalities in 2024, compared to the 72 fatalities reported in 2023 and the five-year average of 144.

Fatality risk remained low at 0.06, below the five-year average (0.10), although double the 0.03 reported in 2023.

“Even with recent high-profile aviation accidents, it is important to remember that accidents are extremely rare. There were 40.6 million flights in 2024 and seven fatal accidents. Moreover, the long-term story of aviation safety is one of continuous improvement.

“A decade ago, the five-year average (2011-2015) was one accident for every 456,000 flights. Today, the five-year average (2020-2024) is one accident for every 810,000 flights. That improvement is because we know that every fatality is one too many.

“We honour the memory of every life lost in an aviation accident with our deepest sympathies and ever-greater resolve to make flying even safer. And for that, the accumulation of safety data, including the 2024 safety report, is our most powerful tool,” Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, said.

MARCH 04, 2025

BY Abubakar Ibrahim

Wild Africa, a wildlife conservation organisation, has projected that Nigeria’s travel and tourism sector will create 2.6 million new jobs over the next decade and generate nearly N12.3 trillion ($8.2 billion) by 2032.

Festus Iyorah, Nigeria’s Representative at Wild Africa, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, during the World Wildlife Day 2025 event in Lagos.

He emphasised the need for increased investment in wildlife conservation to drive economic growth and protect Nigeria’s iconic species.

This year’s theme, “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet,” emphasises the essential role of innovative funding in protecting biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable future for both nature and humanity.

Iyorah noted that Africa’s wildlife populations have declined by 76% over the past 50 years, citing the 2024 Living Planet Report.

He warned that Nigeria’s situation is dire, with species such as lions, elephants, chimpanzees, and gorillas facing extinction.

“For example, Nigeria’s elephant population has declined by 99 percent, with only about 300–400 elephants remaining in the wild,” he said.

Iyorah emphasised that sustainably managing natural resources and preserving wildlife and wild spaces is essential for fostering a profitable wildlife economy with strong growth potential.

He warned that without immediate investment in conservation, species loss would accelerate, leading to devastating consequences for both nature and economies that rely on natural resources.

Africa’s ecotourism industry driving economic growth

Across Africa, 80 percent of tourists visit the continent for its wildlife, fueling an ecotourism industry worth $12.4 billion annually, which supports local economies and communities.

“In Kenya, wildlife tourism contributes 10.4% to GDP, employing millions and generating $2.7 billion in 2023,” Iyorah said, stressing the economic benefits of conservation.

He highlighted that Nigeria’s travel and tourism sector is projected to grow at an average rate of 5.4 percent between 2022 and 2032, underscoring its significant potential to drive economic growth.

“The sector is expected to create 2.6 million new jobs over the next decade and generate nearly N12.3 trillion ($8.2 billion) by 2032,” he added.

Iyorah highlighted Wild Africa’s ongoing efforts to promote and protect Nigeria’s wildlife and wild spaces, leveraging radio, TV, billboards, newspaper publications, and public service announcements (PSAs) to raise awareness.

As part of this campaign, influential Nigerian ambassadors such as 2Baba and Nela Duke Ekpenyong are being featured to showcase Nigeria’s wildlife tourism potential and the need for conservation efforts.

Businesses must prioritise conservation – Experts

He quoted Mark Ofua, Wild Africa’s West Africa Spokesperson, as saying: “Conservation is a symphony, and all hands must be on deck. Businesses must see conservation efforts as their corporate social responsibility, working with governments, conservation organisations, and individuals. Together, we can harmonise our efforts, mobilise resources, and create a resilient future for our planet’s precious biodiversity.”

Iyorah also cited Peter Knights, Chief Executive Officer of Wild Africa, who stressed the critical importance of conservation, stating:

“Without nature, we will not survive. Whether it’s countering our carbon footprints, safeguarding our watersheds, maintaining jobs in tourism, or keeping fishing at sustainable levels—investing in conservation in Africa isn’t charity, it’s a necessity. A world without wildlife is not just an ecological disaster; it’s an economic one, too.”

As part of efforts to mark World Wildlife Day 2025, Iyorah urged the Nigerian public to support sustainable ecotourism by visiting national parks, donating to local conservation organisations, or volunteering to help preserve the country’s rich biodiversity.

MARCH 04, 2025

By Kaula Nhongo

Namibia will issue visas on arrival from April 1 for international investors and tourists, as part of a strategy to attract foreign capital.

The initiative seeks to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and position the southern African nation as a regional hub for business and leisure travelers, Namibia Investment Promotion Development Board Chief Executive Officer Nangula Uaandja said in Windhoek, the capital, Monday. 

The policy “represents a strategic shift in our approach to global engagement and economic development,” she said.

MARCH 04, 2025

BY  Hema Parmar

(Bloomberg) -- Dubai is opening a building dedicated primarily for hedge fund startups looking to expand into the city that’s emerged as a growing hub for the sector in recent years.

The Dubai International Financial Centre is retrofitting a building to cater to firms looking for short-term, plug-and-play offices as they pilot their operations before scaling up, according to people familiar with the matter. The DIFC Hedge Funds Centre is slated to open by the end of April.

The financial free-zone expects to have 20 to 30 contracts signed by year-end, taking up most of the 10,000-square-foot (929-square-meter) building’s capacity, one of the people said, declining to be identified discussing confidential information.

The DIFC is preparing for an influx of such managers after gauging demand for the space at recent roadshows in San Francisco and New York. Most firms that have expressed interest are from the US and the UK, though some from Singapore, Hong Kong and India are also likely to be part of the mix, according to one of the people.

A representative for the DIFC declined to comment.

The new space will be housed in the financial district’s former court building. Tenants will have access to communal areas for networking, facility management and an environment already set up with desks, receptionists and trading capabilities, as soon as the regulator grants in-principle approval.

The development marks a shift for the emirate, which is now seeking to lure smaller spin-outs and independent launches after previously having drawn some of the biggest names in the industry. Dubai has a roster of 75 hedge funds — from Andurand Capital Management to Point72 Asset Management — the majority of which manage more than $1 billion in assets.

The move will also create additional space for established managers, given nearby locations — including the ICD Brookfield tower that’s popular among hedge funds — are at close to full occupancy. Rents at the DIFC Hedge Funds Centre will be more affordable, the person said.

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Money managers have been moving to the United Arab Emirates in recent years, lured by its tax-free income, year-long sunny weather and a timezone conducive to trading across Asia, the UK and Middle Eastern markets. Dubai has also offered perks like reduced licensing fees and capital requirements.

Neighboring Abu Dhabi, too, has seen hedge fund talent rushing to the city, many in hopes of securing capital from sovereign wealth funds that control nearly $1.7 trillion. The influx prompted the city to expand its financial district to a nearby island, in order to create 10 times more space.

MARCH 06, 2025

BY James Rodger

The UK faces FOUR INCHES of snow, maps and charts have detailed, as a wintry shift returns later in March. The UK is bracing for yet another bout of heavy snow in just a few days time - according to WX Charts, which uses Met Desk data.

Snow is set to hammer Scotland on Sunday, March 16, before drifting further south over the following three days. Tuesday, March 18 could mark the worst dat, with Aberdeen, the Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh predicted to see up to 4cm.

The Midlands, including Derbyshire and the Black Country, are in the firing line too, with Derby and Wolverhampton particularly badly hit. Snow could also hammer Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds, York and Middlesborough.

Almost no region will be spared during the early hours of Tuesday, March 18. The Met Office forecast for March 9 to March 18 explains: " Likely mild at the start of this period and feeling warm in any sunny spells. However, conditions will be fairly changeable with a chance of showers or longer spells of rain across all areas, these more likely, at least at first, in the west.

"How weather patterns evolve during the following week is unclear but there is an increased chance that high pressure will become more dominant for a time from the north. This would result in a good deal of dry weather but also lead to a downturn in temperatures with a low chance of a colder spell and wintry hazards.

"Low confidence by the end of the period but with an increasing chance of milder but more unsettled conditions developing again." The March 19 to April 2 outlook adds: "Confidence is low in prevailing weather patterns through this period.

"There is likely to be a mixture of unsettled and settled spells with unsettled slightly favoured initially and settled slightly more probable later. As is typical, parts of the west and northwest will probably be wetter overall with drier conditions in the southeast.

"Above average temperatures are more likely than below though some colder spells remain possible during late March."

MARCH 07, 2025

Thousands of passengers are facing disruption with services suspended for the rest of the day.

All Eurostar trains between London and Paris have been cancelled after an unexploded Second World War bomb was found near train tracks. 

Thousands of passengers are facing disruption as the cross-Channel operator halted 10 services on Friday morning.

All trains between London and Paris will remain suspended for the rest of the day.

Pictures from Gare du Nord show large queues of stranded travellers, while a large crowd of people gathered outside the check-in area at London St Pancras.

The bomb was discovered at around 4am by workers moving earth near the tracks in the Saint-Denis area, north of central Paris.

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Bomb disposal experts have been sent to the site and the operation is still ongoing.

French transport minister Philippe Tabarot told broadcaster Sud Radio local residents and people near the train stations should have "no fear" of a risk of explosion, stressing the procedures in place for defusing and removing such bombs.

First and Second World War bombs are regularly discovered around France but very rarely in such a densely populated area.

Eurostar said in a statement it "sincerely apologises for the disruption and understands the inconvenience this may cause".

France's national train operator SNCF said services had been suspended at the request of the police and asked "travellers to postpone their trip".

Trains to northern France have also been brought to a halt from Gare du Nord, which is a major European transport hub and considered the world's busiest railway station outside of Japan.

Fridays are the busiest day of the week for Eurostar, as many holidaymakers embark on international weekend breaks.

Plans thrown into doubt

Lee Bailey told Sky News he arrived at Gare du Nord to find hundreds of people waiting before being told of the unexploded bomb.

"It's a new one for me," he said, adding the staff were "extremely professional".

"It was a large mass of quiet people waiting to find out what they should do next," he said.

At St Pancras, Charlotte Kidd, who travelled to London from Bath on Thursday night to get to Disneyland Paris for her 30th birthday this weekend, said she was still hopeful of arriving in time.

"We've got two hours. If not, we'll try and get there some other way," she said.

Emma Roe, part of a group of eight friends, said they were looking up flights to go "maybe to Amsterdam from Luton, just somewhere else".

Lauren Romeo-Smith, part of a group planning to travel for a weekend away to celebrate a birthday, said: "We're looking up flights, but our options are limited."

Five of the six flights that British Airways is operating from Heathrow to Paris Charles de Gaulle on Friday after midday are full.

A ticket for the one with spare seats, which departs at 6.20pm, is being sold for £264.

Eurostar said affected passengers can exchange their ticket for free to travel at a different time or date in the same travel class.

Trains between London and Brussels are unaffected.

MARCH 07, 2025

By Eugene Agha, Lagos

The federal government has started the process of reviewing all visa application processes of foreign nationals seeking to travel to Nigeria for business.

Also, the government is reviewing business permits and border control at the air, seaports, as well as land borders.

The move is to streamline the business environment to make it more conducive for foreign investors to operate.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the disclosure in Lagos after having a closed-door meeting with the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).

Briefing newsmen after the closed-door session, Tunji-Ojo explained that issues discussed revolved around government reforms that bordered on the combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), expatriate quota, business permit, and border control among others.

According to him, “the meeting resolved to set up a committee that would work behind the scenes to fine-tune discussions on the issues so far raised.”

He explained that what was disclosed behind closed doors was to make decisions that will not discourage investments but protect the interest of Nigeria.

He further explained that it was agreed that the meeting should not be a one-off thing but be held twice yearly.

MARCH 07, 2025

By Balarabe Alkassim

The House of Representatives has called on the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to sanction airlines over noncompliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Act, 2022 (NCAA, 2022) and Part 19 Of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority Regulations, 2023 (CARS, 2023) which provide that, “Air carriers are generally liable for damage occasioned by delay of carriage of its passengers and their baggage”.

It also called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to ensure compliance with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018 (FCCPA, 2018) by air carriers to safeguard the interests of consumers through compensation or any fair dealings as deemed fit.

This followed the adoption of a motion on matters of urgent public importance moved by Rep. Victor Obuzor at plenary on Thursday.

Presenting the motion, Rep. Obuzor lamented that airlines have failed to comply with the laws that created liability for air carriers when they delay flights or mishandle baggage.

He noted that flight delays and cancellations persist and have resulted in economic losses to both persons and businesses.