Expat News

Dr. Shiva Ayyadurai To Contest US Elections As Independent Candidate 

As the US presidential elections draw closer, Dr. Shiva Ayyadurai has entered the fray. He is running as an independent candidate for US presidency. He does not need any special introduction, because he has claimed that he invented email. Some may argue that email was invented by certain individuals through a process involving decades of scientific work. However, he is ready to contest the upcoming elections from Massachusetts. He is an entrepreneur, with a PhD from MIT.

'Aani' Digital Platform Launched To Assist UAE Micro-Businesses To Make Instant Payments

Instant is the theme as the ‘Aani’ payment platform starts to build up acceptance with UAE consumers and retailers. And it is proving to be a hit with banks, too, as they provide the platform to make those payments happen in a matter of seconds. "We have made Aani to be accessible when you want to pay for goods and services, especially for smaller merchants who may not currently be enabled to accept digital payments," said Jan Pilbauer, CEO, Al Etihad Payments. Merchants will be able to print a static QR code that is similar to that is seen in other parts of the world. You walk by, scan it with your Aani app or banking app, and pay the merchant in real-time.

40,000 Indians Vie for 1000 Spots In Australia's New Work Visa Ballot

Around 40,000 Indians have reportedly applied for 1000 spots under Australia’s new Working Holiday Maker visa programme, Australian Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite said. The visa ballot process, which began on October 1, will close at the end of the month. Applicants will be randomly selected through the ballot, and successful candidates can apply for a temporary visa, with the aim of starting their stay in Australia early next year."The great thing about the Working Holiday Maker visa is that there are no restrictions on the jobs you can do. While many participants are expected to work in hospitality and agriculture, they will also have the option to pursue short courses or improve their English skills," Thistlethwaite observed.

Saudi's New Initiative Aims At Stronger Bonds With Indian, Other Expats

Saudi Arabia has launched a new initiative that aims at promoting quality of life, and developing stronger bonds between the local society and the Indian and other expatriate communities through cultural promotion.

Unveiling the Global Harmony initiative this week, Saudi deputy minister for media Khalid bin Abdulqader Al-Ghamdi, said, "This initiative will also showcase the different cultures of the expats and how they are living in harmony. The Global Harmony initiative is a part of Saudi Arabia's Quality of Life programme to attain its 'Vision 2030' objectives. Ambassador of India Suhel Ajaz Khan and top diplomats of many other countries were present on the occasion.