The Russian chess federation president linked to Libya's Muammar Qaddafi in today's news reports was the backer of one of Dubai's most flamboyant development proposals.
In 2004, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, who reportedly talked to the missing Libyan leader today, announced plans to build a Dh9.6 billion ($2.6 billion) International Chess City in Dubai. The 64,000-sq-metre development was planned to feature 32 buildings designed to emulate a chess board and host chess players from around the world.
The buildings would be shaped like chess pieces, anchored by two 64-story "king" towers.
"It is Dubai's destiny to become the centre of such a magnificent game," Mr Ilyumzhinov, the head of the World Chess Federation, said at the time.
The development never gained traction and Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Authority no longer includes it on its list of active projects.
Mr Ilyumzhinov told reporters he talked to Col Qaddafi on the phone today and the Libyan leader sounded "strong" and "normal".
If you go
Where to stay: Courtyard by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Centre has unparalleled views of the Indian River. Alligators can be spotted from hotel room balconies, as can several rocket launch sites. The hotel also boasts cool space-themed decor.
When to go: Florida is best experienced during the winter months, from November to May, before the humidity kicks in.
How to get there: Emirates currently flies from Dubai to Orlando five times a week.
THREE
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Business Insights
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- US domestic suppliers might benefit from higher prices, but overall oil consumption is expected to decrease due to elevated costs
Sholto Byrnes on Myanmar politics
Company%20Profile
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Fixtures
50-over match
UAE v Lancashire, starts at 10am
Champion County match
MCC v Surrey, four-day match, starting on Sunday, March 24, play starts at 10am
Both matches are at ICC Academy, Dubai Sports City. Admission is free.
The biog
Name: Gul Raziq
From: Charsadda, Pakistan
Family: Wife and six children
Favourite holes at Al Ghazal: 15 and 8
Golf Handicap: 6
Childhood sport: cricket
Farasan Boat: 128km Away from Anchorage
Director: Mowaffaq Alobaid
Stars: Abdulaziz Almadhi, Mohammed Al Akkasi, Ali Al Suhaibani
Rating: 4/5
COMPANY%20PROFILE
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How to protect yourself when air quality drops
Install an air filter in your home.
Close your windows and turn on the AC.
Shower or bath after being outside.
Wear a face mask.
Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.
If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.