Herat, located in western Afghanistan, is a hub for international border trade and agriculture, with a significant portion of its economy based on horticulture production, including 90% of Afghanistan's saffron. A new $2 million saffron processing factory has been established, providing jobs to 700 women and exporting saffron internationally. Additionally, Herat's aluminium factory employs 120 people, producing four tons of aluminium products daily for domestic use. The region is also known for its distinctive hand-woven rugs, which are in high demand globally.

This year's Christmas in Damascus marks a significant moment as residents celebrate without the fear of terrorism for the first time in over seven years. The festivities include singing carols, gathering around a large Christmas tree in Qassaa, and lighting the biggest Christmas tree in Abbasiya Square, organized by the Action Project. The atmosphere is heartwarming, with people shopping for gifts, candies, and decorations, reflecting a return to normalcy and peace in the Syrian capital.

Santa's Island at Bluewaters Dubai is a festive destination offering a variety of activities, including children's workshops, food and drink stalls, and snow machines. A 12-metre-tall Christmas tree and a festive market with themed kiosks selling unique gifts are among the highlights. Visitors can also enjoy a 'freeze wall' for photos and a giant advent calendar.

A lighthearted slideshow highlights recognizable hairstyles worn by political leaders and public figures, including Yulia Tymoshenko’s braided crown, Boris Johnson’s intentionally disheveled hair, Angela Merkel’s classic cut, and Donald Trump’s comb-over. It also features Kim Jong-un, Barbara Bush, John F. Kennedy, Theresa May, Vladimir Putin and others, with brief humorous or admiring descriptions.

A new Instagram challenge, #fallingstars2018, initiated by Russian supermodel Natasha Poly, is gaining popularity in Russia. The challenge involves people posing as if they have fallen flat on their face, with many Russian millionaires participating by sharing images of themselves face-planting after disembarking from private jets. The trend has seen people sharing photos of themselves fallen from various vehicles, including boats, cars, and planes.

Jazirat Al Hamra, a coastal village in the Northern UAE, was abandoned nearly 40 years ago before the discovery of oil and gas in the region. The village now stands as an eerie ghost town with remnants of houses, schools, a mosque, and marketplaces, offering a glimpse into life before the UAE's oil wealth.

Glitter Butts, a trend involving the application of sparkles, sequins, and jewels to bare bottoms, has emerged as the hottest new trend for the summer. The trend also extends to adorning breasts with glitter and gemstones, with women getting creative in their use, sometimes even replacing tops and bras.

Chefchaouen’s old medina is known for its blue-painted streets and buildings, which draw visitors to the Moroccan city. The article describes the medina’s many shades of blue, notes a local belief that the color wards off mosquitoes, and praises residents for their friendliness and hospitality.