AEOwnership & classification
Founded: 1978
Ownership
Gulf News is published by Al Nisr Publishing LLC, a privately held Dubai company. It was launched in 1978 by businessman Abdul Wahab Galadari, and after his financial collapse the title was bought in November 1984 from the receivers by Al Nisr Publishing, formed by prominent Emirati businessmen including chairman Obaid Humaid Al Tayer (later UAE Minister of State for Financial Affairs), with the Al Tayer family/Al Tayer Group as the controlling interest.
Funding
Financed commercially through advertising, print circulation and digital subscriptions across its English-language daily and websites; no licence-fee funding.
Affiliation & stance
Although privately owned rather than a state broadcaster, Gulf News operates under the UAE's restrictive media environment and its chairman is a serving government minister, so coverage of domestic and regional politics closely tracks official UAE positions. Because editorial output is effectively aligned with and constrained by a government-linked ownership and the UAE state, it is classified as DEPENDENT rather than fully independent.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 143
80/100
Factual
77/100
Objective
273
Articles
273
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
Why WhatsApp's new anonymity feature fails to quash security fears
Dubai investors shift focus from pure real estate to long-term quality of life
14 killed after Saudi Aramco helicopter crashes in Ras Tanura: Energy ministry
UAE soldier killed during training mission
UAE's under-15s social media policy to help parents who faced 'almost impossible job', expert says
At least 13 killed and 66 injured in explosion at Qatar's Ras Laffan gas hub
UAE announces 30-day visa grace period for those affected by regional flight disruptions
US Supreme Court rules against Trump's move to overturn birthright citizenship
Indian passport fees to increase in UAE from July 1, new prices to be announced soon
Recent coverage
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
Arab designers who could design Taylor Swift's wedding dress
Speculation is growing that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce may be getting married this weekend at Madison Square Garden, though neither has officially confirmed the plans. Fans and fashion enthusiasts are already imagining what Swift's wedding dress might look like, with particular interest in potential designers. Among the names being considered are Lebanese designers Elie Saab and Reem Acra, both of whom have previously dressed Swift for major events. Elie Saab has created gowns for Swift during her Eras Tour, including a nude gown worn in Tampa, and his autumn 2025 bridal line features a strapless ballgown with floral embroidery. Reem Acra, a Lebanese-American designer based in New York, has also been a favorite of Swift's, creating multiple outfits for her Eras Tour and a bridesmaid dress for a friend's wedding in 2016. Other designers under consideration include Azzi & Osta, though specific details about their involvement are not provided.
Gen. Ahmad Vahidi: Powerful IRGC general reemerges as Iran prepares days of mourning for Khamenei
The article reports on the reappearance of General Ahmad Vahidi, a high-ranking officer in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), amid Iran's preparations for days of national mourning following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The piece highlights Vahidi's significant role within the IRGC and his recent visibility, suggesting potential implications for Iran's military and political landscape during this period of leadership transition.
UK arrests eight in global drug-and-rape network probe
The United Kingdom has arrested eight individuals as part of an investigation into a global network allegedly involved in drug trafficking and rape. The operation, which spans multiple countries, targets organized crime groups engaged in both narcotics distribution and sexual exploitation. Authorities have not disclosed specific details about the suspects' identities or the exact nature of their alleged activities. The probe highlights international efforts to combat cross-border criminal operations. No further information was provided regarding the legal proceedings or potential charges against those arrested.
Iran to impose transit fees in Strait of Hormuz after 60-day grace period
The article reports that Iran plans to introduce transit fees for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, effective after a 60-day grace period. The move comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with concerns over maritime security and energy supply routes. Iranian officials have emphasized the need for revenue generation and improved infrastructure maintenance. The decision has raised concerns among international shipping companies and regional stakeholders, who fear potential disruptions to global oil trade. No specific details on the fee structure or implementation timeline were provided.
Indian passport applicants in UAE queue at Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Consulate in Dubai after 17 years
The article reports that Indian citizens residing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are now able to apply for passports at both the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai after a 17-year gap. This development comes as part of ongoing efforts to improve diplomatic services for the Indian diaspora in the region. The piece highlights the re-establishment of these facilities, which had been unavailable for over a decade, and notes the positive response from Indian nationals seeking to renew or obtain their passports. No specific details about the reasons for the 17-year absence or any further implications are provided.
Bank of Baroda pays $600 million to settle NMC case
Bank of Baroda has agreed to pay $600 million to resolve a legal case involving the National Medical Commission (NMC). The settlement comes after prolonged legal proceedings, which reportedly centered around allegations of regulatory violations related to medical education standards. The NMC, a body responsible for overseeing medical colleges and professionals in India, had initiated the case against the bank. The resolution marks the end of a contentious legal dispute that has raised questions about compliance with healthcare regulations. The exact nature of the alleged violations remains undisclosed in the report.
Iran blames US after ship runs aground in Hormuz. Here's what shipping data shows
A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Iran to accuse the United States of involvement. The incident has raised concerns about maritime security in a strategically important waterway. Shipping data is being analyzed to determine whether there is evidence supporting Iran's claims against the U.S. The situation highlights tensions between the two countries over navigation and regional influence. The grounding of the vessel could disrupt global oil trade, as Hormuz is a critical passage for international energy shipments.
Venezuela earthquake death toll nears 1,500 with tens of thousands missing
Two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela within a minute of each other, causing widespread destruction and raising the death toll to nearly 1,500. Rescue teams are working to locate survivors amid extensive damage, including collapsed buildings and severe disruption to infrastructure like the main international airport. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez announced a presidential commission to assess structural safety and extended school closures while restoring partial electricity. While the government reported hundreds missing, an opposition-promoted website listed over 50,000 people as unaccounted for. The US Geological Survey warned the quakes could result in over 10,000 deaths, making them among the deadliest in Latin America in recent history. Over 2,600 foreign rescue workers joined local efforts, but hundreds of aftershocks continued to pose risks to affected communities.
Ranveer Singh takes Dhurandhar to Japan after Rs13 billion box office run: 'Come watch the biggest Indian movie of all time'
The article reports that Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has taken his film 'Dhurandhar' to Japan following its successful box office performance in India, where it reportedly earned over Rs13 billion. The headline emphasizes the film's status as 'the biggest Indian movie of all time,' suggesting significant commercial success. The piece highlights the international expansion of the film, focusing on its potential appeal in Japan. There is no detailed discussion of critical reception, cultural impact, or specific Japanese market strategies beyond the announcement of the release.
Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar killed in Israeli operation: Reports
A report by Gulf News states that Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar was killed during an Israeli military operation. The article cites unnamed sources, providing limited detail on the circumstances of the incident. No official confirmation or additional context is provided in the text. The event highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli forces and Palestinian individuals, particularly in areas under Israeli control. The lack of detailed information raises questions about the reliability and depth of the report.
'We couldn't build a plane like this': Donald Trump hails Qatar's gift of luxury Boeing 747 as he takes maiden flight on it
Donald Trump took his first flight on a luxury Boeing 747 gifted to him by Qatar. During the flight, Trump praised the aircraft, stating that 'we couldn't build a plane like this.' The plane was presented as a gesture of goodwill from Qatar to Trump, highlighting the personal relationship between the two leaders.
Ten-man USA earn first World Cup knockout win since 2002 with 2-0 victory over Bosnia
The United States men's national football team secured a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in a World Cup knockout stage match, marking their first such win since 2002. The game took place at the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, Qatar. The U.S. team played with ten players after a red card in the second half, demonstrating resilience under pressure. This win advances the Americans to the next round of the tournament.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
Nothing flagged as overlooked yet.