Good morning from The National on January 22, 2026.
Here is your digest of what is making the headlines in the Emirates.
Three scientists secured grants of up to $1.5 million on Wednesday to support the UAE's efforts to boost cloud seeding and water security.
The winners of the sixth cycle of the UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science, run by the National Centre of Meteorology, were selected from 140 research proposals from 48 countries.
Each recipient will receive a grant of up to $1.5 million, distributed over three years, with a maximum annual amount of $550,000.
John Dennehy has more
Dubai boxer almost blinded after overusing eye drops
A Dubai-based boxer who was left almost blind in one eye after overusing eye drops for 20 years has talked about his health fight.
Paul Awah, a sports coach who has lived in the emirate for 11 years, was prescribed steroid eye drops in his home country of Cameroon while in his twenties.
He continued to take the same medication until last year, when a routine eye test found a rare case of steroid-induced glaucoma that required urgent medical intervention.
His sight had deteriorated to about 3 per cent in one eye, and he would have gone completely blind on his left side unless he opted for surgery.
Mr Awah told Nick Webster about his journey to keep his eyesight. Read more here
UAE parents now have legal obligation to monitor children’s online use, experts say
The UAE's new digital safety law has been welcomed by experts who see it as critical to protecting young people from harmful online content.
As well establishing a national Child Digital Safety Council, it is likely to redefine parents' obligations on digital safety.
Katy Gillett spoke to cybersecurity experts about the fast-evolving area, its dangers and its benefits, particularly for children.
Read what she found out here
Fact of the day
Emirates airline has signed an agreement with Dubai Investments Park to acquire land for a “multibillion-dirham” development for cabin crew as it expands operations. Read more here
Today's must-reads
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