Anghami, the leading music streaming platform in the Middle East, launched its first-ever English/Arabic hip-hop cypher featuring nine renowned Arab rappers and artists. Directed by Hassane Dennaoui, aka Big Hass, the cypher aims to highlight the growing role of hip-hop in the region. The track, produced by Sandhill and featuring DJ Lethal Skillz' scratching, showcases the diversity and richness of Arab culture. The music video was shot in nine different cities and edited by Raed Al Murish. Anghami, founded by Eddy Maroun and Elie Habib, continues to support and nurture the regional music scene, recognizing hip-hop as a significant genre.

Saudi Arabia celebrated its 88th National Day, marking the unification of the Kingdom under King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1932. The article highlights five facts about the national anthem, including its creation by the poet Khafaji, who was commissioned by King Khalid and later King Fahd to write the lyrics. The anthem, which begins with the word 'Sari'i' meaning 'Hasten,' reflects the kingdom's heritage and pride. Khafaji, a renowned Arab poet, passed away in 2017, leaving a lasting legacy.

The UAE has made significant strides in empowering women, as evidenced by various achievements and initiatives. Women hold a substantial percentage of government jobs, including senior positions, and have made historic advancements in political representation. The country has seen a dramatic decrease in female illiteracy and high participation rates in higher education among women. The UAE has implemented progressive laws and strategies to support gender equality, including mandatory female representation on government boards and the establishment of a military college for women. Key figures such as Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak and Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi are highlighted for their contributions to these efforts.

The UAE has implemented various measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including closing public spaces and banning non-essential travel. The pandemic has led to a shift towards remote work, though the ban on VoIP software remains a challenge. Calls to lift this ban have been made by prominent figures. The use of e-scooters is encouraged as an alternative to public transport. The economic impact on non-oil sectors like tourism and trade is significant, with major events postponed. The UAE's proactive measures are seen as necessary despite their severe impact on daily life.

Transparency International's latest Corruption Perceptions Index reveals that corruption remains widespread in the Arab world, with 16 out of 21 Arab states scoring below 50. The report ranks countries based on perceived public sector corruption, with New Zealand, Denmark, and Switzerland scoring highest globally, while Syria, South Sudan, and Somalia score the lowest. Western Europe is the best performing region, while Sub-Saharan Africa and Eastern Europe and Central Asia are the worst. Since 2012, some Arab nations like Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and the UAE have improved their scores, while others like Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have declined.

Mohamed Salah won the Puskás Award for goal of the year at The Best FIFA Football Awards in London, with his solo goal against Everton receiving 38 percent of the votes. The win was controversial, as many expected Gareth Bale's scissor kick or Cristiano Ronaldo's bicycle kick to be the favorites. The fan-voted system and FIFA's integrity were questioned, leading to anger and irritation among football fans on social media.

Global literacy rates have significantly increased over the past few decades due to the evolution of educational systems in developing countries and the growing recognition of education's importance. Using data from a 2015 UNESCO report, Arab countries are ranked by literacy rates, highlighting the factors contributing to these rates, such as accessibility and quality of education.

Al-Azhar Institute, Egypt's highest Sunni Muslim authority, declared all forms of sexual harassment forbidden, labeling it as deviant behavior and sinful. This statement follows recent incidents of sexual harassment in Egypt, including a viral video showing three hijab-wearing women being harassed. Social media responses often blame the victims, and studies show prevalent victim-blaming attitudes. Sexual harassment is criminalized in Egypt, with convictions leading to prison sentences. The issue is also common in other Arab countries.

Since his appointment in June 2017, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has initiated significant reforms in Saudi Arabia, including the reintroduction of cinemas, lifting the driving ban on women, and allowing women to attend sporting events. Representing the aspirations of a young population, MbS advocates for a return to moderate Islam and increased women's rights, emphasizing societal progress and cultural evolution.

Saudi Arabia expelled the Canadian ambassador and recalled its own envoy after Canada urged the release of detained civil rights activists, including Samar Badawi. Saudi Arabia suspended new trade, investment, and flights with Canada, and halted scholarships for Saudi students in Canada. The UAE, Bahrain, and the Palestinian Authority supported Saudi Arabia's stance, while Canada reiterated its commitment to human rights. The diplomatic fallout could have long-term effects on both countries.