With World Drowning Prevention Day happening tomorrow, we take a closer look locally where beaches, pools and water sports are a big part of family life for much of the year here in the UAE. Experts say say many drowning incidents are preventable through better awareness, closer supervision and understanding the risks before getting into the water.

We also revisit the story of five-year-old Kian, who was enjoying a day at his community swimming pool when he silently slipped beneath the water without anyone noticing. Hear the inspiring story of how quick action and CPR helped save his life, and why knowing this lifesaving skill can make all the difference.

If you step in to help during an emergency and something goes wrong, could you end up facing legal consequences? 

 

 

With World Drowning Prevention Day happening tomorrow, we take a closer look locally where beaches, pools and water sports are a big part of family life for much of the year here in the UAE. Experts say say many drowning incidents are preventable through better awareness, closer supervision and understanding the risks before getting into the water.
We also revisit the story of five-year-old Kian, who was enjoying a day at his community swimming pool when he silently slipped beneath the water without anyone noticing. Hear the inspiring story of how quick action and CPR helped save his life, and why knowing this lifesaving skill can make all the difference.
If you step in to help during an emergency and something goes wrong, could you end up facing legal consequences?&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The Agenda is your go-to programme for news, analysis and comment - a daily digest of local and international stories that matter to you. Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.
From Covid-19, to climate change and community issues, The Agenda covers stories from every walk of life, so get in touch with us and tell us your news.

The Agenda is your go-to programme for news, analysis and comment - a daily digest of local and international stories that matter to you. Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE. From Covid-19, to climate change and community issues, The Agenda covers stories from every walk of life, so get in touch with us and tell us your news.

The Agenda

Water safety is much more than knowing how to swim

For decades, studying at an American university has been the dream for students around the world. And every year, hundreds of students graduating from UAE schools head to the US, making it one of the most popular overseas destinations for those studying the IB, A Levels and the American curriculum.

But is that beginning to change?

New data from Skyscanner suggests almost half of UAE travellers are yet to book their summer getaway, and for those who can be flexible, waiting until later in the season could mean significant savings.

For years, scientists thought there might be a glimmer of hope in the Arctic. The rapid decline in sea ice appeared to be slowing, raising hopes that one of the world's most visible indicators of climate change had stabilised. But new research suggests that optimism was short-lived.

And are there driving habits that could save you money without you even realising it?

For decades, studying at an American university has been the dream for students around the world. And every year, hundreds of students graduating from UAE schools head to the US, making it one of the most popular overseas destinations for those studying the IB, A Levels and the American curriculum.
But is that beginning to change?
New data from Skyscanner suggests almost half of UAE travellers are yet to book their summer getaway, and for those who can be flexible, waiting until later in the season could mean significant savings.
For years, scientists thought there might be a glimmer of hope in the Arctic. The rapid decline in sea ice appeared to be slowing, raising hopes that one of the world's most visible indicators of climate change had stabilised. But new research suggests that optimism was short-lived.
And are there driving habits that could save you money without you even realising it?

UAE students moving away from US universities

A major new United Nations report says 645 million people are living with chronic hunger, 2.1 billion experiencing food insecurity, and 2.7 billion unable to afford a healthy diet. The report also highlights a growing double burden, as obesity continues to rise alongside undernutrition, raising fresh questions about the cost of eating well and whether the world is on track to meet its 2030 goal of Zero Hunger.

Another UN report warns the world has entered an era of what it calls "global water bankruptcy", where we're using freshwater faster than nature can replenish it.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is over, with Spain crowned champions after beating Argentina in extra time in America. But while fans will remember Ferran Torres' winning goal, one part of the tournament went largely unnoticed: the pitches.

And do you drink Kefir?

A major new United Nations report says 645 million people are living with chronic hunger, 2.1 billion experiencing food insecurity, and 2.7 billion unable to afford a healthy diet. The report also highlights a growing double burden, as obesity continues to rise alongside undernutrition, raising fresh questions about the cost of eating well and whether the world is on track to meet its 2030 goal of Zero Hunger.
Another UN report warns the world has entered an era of what it calls "global water bankruptcy", where we're using freshwater faster than nature can replenish it.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is over, with Spain crowned champions after beating Argentina in extra time in America. But while fans will remember Ferran Torres' winning goal, one part of the tournament went largely unnoticed: the pitches.
And do you drink Kefir?

The world is still far from ending hunger

Do you prefer to get around by foot or bike? There's good news for Dubai residents who would rather not have to deal with road traffic and all the stressors that come along with it. The Roads and Transport Authority has approved a new five-year Soft Mobility Master Plan, which aims to make it easier and safer for people to walk, cycle and use e-scooters to get around neighbourhoods. 

A new study out of UC San Francisco found that boys aged 12 to 16 showed a correlation between an increase in "addictive" social media use and worsening ADHD symptoms by the next year. 

Prioritising saving for travel over saving for retirement? 

Are garments designed to confuse facial recognition systems about to go mainstream? 

We give you details of board game adventures in a museum.

And find out what's in store for this year's Dubai Summer Surprises.

 

Do you prefer to get around by foot or bike? There's good news for Dubai residents who would rather not have to deal with road traffic and all the stressors that come along with it. The Roads and Transport Authority has approved a new five-year Soft Mobility Master Plan, which aims to make it easier and safer for people to walk, cycle and use e-scooters to get around neighbourhoods.&nbsp;
A new study out of UC San Francisco found that boys aged 12 to 16 showed a correlation between an increase in "addictive" social media use and worsening ADHD symptoms by the next year.&nbsp;
Prioritising saving for travel over saving for retirement?&nbsp;
Are garments designed to confuse facial recognition systems about to go mainstream?&nbsp;
We give you details of board game adventures in a museum.
And find out what's in store for this year's Dubai Summer Surprises.
&nbsp;

Water safety is much more than knowing how to swim

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