OpenAI’s ChatGPT has been the dominant artificial intelligence platform since its launch in late 2022. People have used it for everything from organising their schedules and making travel plans to asking it to come up with cooking recipes or story ideas.
But a new AI platform is unsettling ChatGPT, China’s DeepSeek. The new generative AI model matches, and sometimes outdoes, its more established rival despite reportedly only costing around $6 million to build and operate, much less than ChatGPT’s costs.
But how do the two platforms differ when it comes to questions about the Middle East? Here, The National asks easy and hard questions to see what each has to say.
How can we resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict?
ChatGPT: Resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict requires a two-state solution with mutual recognition, addressing key issues like borders, refugees and Jerusalem. Both parties must engage in peaceful dialogue, ensuring security, human rights and equality. International support through diplomacy and mediation is essential for long-term peace and coexistence.
DeepSeek: Resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict requires mutual recognition, a two-state solution, ending violence, addressing core issues (borders, Jerusalem, refugees) and international mediation. Trust-building, economic cooperation and inclusive dialogue are essential. Both sides must prioritise peace over historical grievances, with global support ensuring fairness and sustainability.
Observation: The two platforms broadly give similar answers, despite some differences in the language and style. It’s clear that both are pulling from the same sources but are presenting the answer in a slightly different manner.
What can we do to best help the people of Gaza?
ChatGPT: To help the people of Gaza, we can donate to reputable humanitarian organisations providing food, medical care and essential supplies. Supporting advocacy for peace, human rights and political solutions is vital. Raising awareness and urging governments to prioritise diplomatic efforts can also contribute to long-term stability and aid.
DeepSeek: To best help the people of Gaza, provide urgent humanitarian aid (food, water, medical supplies), support NGOs delivering on-the-ground assistance, advocate for a ceasefire and diplomatic solutions, raise awareness about their plight and push for long-term reconstruction and economic development to ensure stability and improve living conditions.
Observation: Like the first question, both give the same answers, just delivered differently. But both offer good suggestions for a pertinent question that many will be asking today.
Who is the most significant Arab artist, living or dead?
ChatGPT: Mahmoud Said, often called the "father of modern Egyptian art", is one of the most significant Arab artists. His work combined traditional Egyptian themes with modernist techniques, influencing generations of artists. His legacy continues to shape contemporary Arab art, especially through his use of symbolism and abstraction.
DeepSeek: Umm Kulthum, the "Star of the East", is the most significant Arab artist. Her powerful voice and emotive performances transcended borders, symbolising Arab unity and cultural pride. Decades after her death in 1975, her music remains iconic, influencing generations and solidifying her legacy as a timeless cultural icon.
Observation: While both chose Egyptian artists, their answers were very different. ChatGPT chose a niche answer in Mahmoud Said, a modern art painter, while DeepSeek chose Umm Kulthum, arguably the most obvious answer to the question. Both backed their choices with solid reasoning.
Where is the best place to get a shawarma in Abu Dhabi?
ChatGPT: Al Ijaza Cafeteria is a top choice for delicious shawarma in Abu Dhabi, known for its tender meat and flavourful garlic sauce. Shawarma King also stands out for its tasty, juicy shawarma with a variety of fillings. Both are beloved for their authentic, satisfying shawarma experience.
DeepSeek: For the best shawarma in Abu Dhabi, head to Al Farah Restaurant or Al Ibrahimi Restaurant. Both are renowned for their flavourful, freshly grilled shawarmas, generous portions and authentic taste. Locals and visitors alike praise their quality and consistency, making them top choices in the city.
Observation: ChatGPT falls at the first hurdle, as Al Ijaza Cafeteria is a popular affordable eatery in Dubai, not Abu Dhabi, and the same applies to its second suggestion, Shawarma King. DeepSeek gave great answers though, as both of its suggestions are popular shawarma spots in Abu Dhabi.
Which Arab actor should play Spider-Man?
ChatGPT: Rami Malek, an Egyptian-American actor, would be an excellent choice to play Spider-Man. His talent, charm and youthful appearance fit Peter Parker's character well. Malek’s ability to portray complex roles, combined with his growing international fame, would bring a unique depth to the iconic superhero.
DeepSeek: Omar Borkan Al Gala, a UAE-born actor and model, would be a compelling choice for an Arab Spider-Man. Known for his charisma and global appeal, he embodies the youthful energy and relatability of Peter Parker, while representing Arab talent in a globally iconic role.
Observation: Completely different answers from each platform here, as one chooses an Oscar-winning actor while the other chooses someone who is primarily a model. While ChatGPT’s choice does make sense, it fails to suggest an actor who can speak Arabic fluently. DeepSeek’s choice is closer to what was asked, but of the hundreds of Arab actors, it chose someone who isn’t known for his acting chops. It does make a mistake, however, as Al Gala was born in Baghdad and raised in Dubai.
What is the best tourist destination in Saudi Arabia for children?
ChatGPT: AlUla is an excellent tourist destination for children, offering adventure and history with its stunning rock formations, ancient tombs and family-friendly activities like hiking and camel rides. Another great option is King Abdulaziz Historical Centre in Riyadh, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and learn about Saudi heritage.
DeepSeek: The best tourist destination in Saudi Arabia for children is Al Shallal Theme Park in Jeddah. It offers thrilling rides, a skating rink, arcade games and a large Ferris wheel. Its family-friendly atmosphere, diverse attractions and beautiful lighting make it a perfect spot for kids to enjoy and explore.
Observation: ChatGPT’s answer skews more towards a culturally enriching experience, while DeepSeek chooses a safe option in a theme park. Both are good choices nonetheless and deciding which made the better choice depends wholly on the family.
Who is more influential, Nancy Ajram or Amr Diab?
ChatGPT: Amr Diab is generally considered more influential due to his pioneering role in modern Arabic pop music. His long career and global reach helped shape the genre. While Nancy Ajram is incredibly popular and influential, especially among younger audiences, Diab's impact on Arabic music has been broader and longer-lasting.
DeepSeek: Amr Diab is more influential, often called the "father of Mediterranean music". With a career spanning decades, he revolutionised Arabic pop, blending traditional and modern styles. Nancy Ajram, while hugely popular, particularly in the Levant, doesn't match Diab's broader regional impact and pioneering contributions to the music industry.
Observation: The two have similar answers again. While they use different words to say it, they both make the same point in choosing Amr Diab while giving due respect to Nancy Ajram.
F1 The Movie
Starring: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Rating: 4/5
Representing%20UAE%20overseas
%3Cp%3E%0DIf%20Catherine%20Richards%20debuts%20for%20Wales%20in%20the%20Six%20Nations%2C%20she%20will%20be%20the%20latest%20to%20have%20made%20it%20from%20the%20UAE%20to%20the%20top%20tier%20of%20the%20international%20game%20in%20the%20oval%20ball%20codes.%0D%3Cbr%3E%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESeren%20Gough-Walters%20(Wales%20rugby%20league)%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EBorn%20in%20Dubai%2C%20raised%20in%20Sharjah%2C%20and%20once%20an%20immigration%20officer%20at%20the%20British%20Embassy%20in%20Abu%20Dhabi%2C%20she%20debuted%20for%20Wales%20in%20rugby%20league%20in%202021.%0D%3Cbr%3E%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESophie%20Shams%20(England%20sevens)%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EWith%20an%20Emirati%20father%20and%20English%20mother%2C%20Shams%20excelled%20at%20rugby%20at%20school%20in%20Dubai%2C%20and%20went%20on%20to%20represent%20England%20on%20the%20sevens%20circuit.%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFiona%20Reidy%20(Ireland)%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EMade%20her%20Test%20rugby%20bow%20for%20Ireland%20against%20England%20in%202015%2C%20having%20played%20for%20four%20years%20in%20the%20capital%20with%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Harlequins%20previously.%0D%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Medicus AI
Started: 2016
Founder(s): Dr Baher Al Hakim, Dr Nadine Nehme and Makram Saleh
Based: Vienna, Austria; started in Dubai
Sector: Health Tech
Staff: 119
Funding: €7.7 million (Dh31m)
COMPANY%20PROFILE
%3Cp%3ECompany%20name%3A%20CarbonSifr%3Cbr%3EStarted%3A%202022%3Cbr%3EBased%3A%20Dubai%3Cbr%3EFounders%3A%20Onur%20Elgun%2C%20Mustafa%20Bosca%20and%20Muhammed%20Yildirim%3Cbr%3ESector%3A%20Climate%20tech%3Cbr%3EInvestment%20stage%3A%20%241%20million%20raised%20in%20seed%20funding%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
'Downton Abbey: A New Era'
Director: Simon Curtis
Cast: Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter and Phyllis Logan
Rating: 4/5
Drivers’ championship standings after Singapore:
1. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes - 263
2. Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari - 235
3. Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes - 212
4. Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull - 162
5. Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari - 138
6. Sergio Perez, Force India - 68
Engine: 80 kWh four-wheel-drive
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Power: 402bhp
Torque: 760Nm
Price: From Dh280,000
Tips to stay safe during hot weather
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
- Seek cool environments: Use air conditioning, fans, or visit community spaces with climate control.
- Limit outdoor activities: Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. If outside, seek shade and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose and light-coloured clothing to facilitate heat loss.
- Check on vulnerable people: Regularly check in on elderly neighbours, young children and those with health conditions.
- Home adaptations: Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight, avoid using ovens or stoves, and ventilate living spaces during cooler hours.
- Recognise heat illness: Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (dizziness, confusion, rapid pulse, nausea), and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
Walls
Louis Tomlinson
3 out of 5 stars
(Syco Music/Arista Records)
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
MATCH INFO
Euro 2020 qualifier
Ukraine 2 (Yaremchuk 06', Yarmolenko 27')
Portugal 1 (Ronaldo 72' pen)
Labour dispute
The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.
- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law
What the law says
Micro-retirement is not a recognised concept or employment status under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations (as amended) (UAE Labour Law). As such, it reflects a voluntary work-life balance practice, rather than a recognised legal employment category, according to Dilini Loku, senior associate for law firm Gateley Middle East.
“Some companies may offer formal sabbatical policies or career break programmes; however, beyond such arrangements, there is no automatic right or statutory entitlement to extended breaks,” she explains.
“Any leave taken beyond statutory entitlements, such as annual leave, is typically regarded as unpaid leave in accordance with Article 33 of the UAE Labour Law. While employees may legally take unpaid leave, such requests are subject to the employer’s discretion and require approval.”
If an employee resigns to pursue micro-retirement, the employment contract is terminated, and the employer is under no legal obligation to rehire the employee in the future unless specific contractual agreements are in place (such as return-to-work arrangements), which are generally uncommon, Ms Loku adds.
'The worst thing you can eat'
Trans fat is typically found in fried and baked goods, but you may be consuming more than you think.
Powdered coffee creamer, microwave popcorn and virtually anything processed with a crust is likely to contain it, as this guide from Mayo Clinic outlines:
Baked goods - Most cakes, cookies, pie crusts and crackers contain shortening, which is usually made from partially hydrogenated vegetable oil. Ready-made frosting is another source of trans fat.
Snacks - Potato, corn and tortilla chips often contain trans fat. And while popcorn can be a healthy snack, many types of packaged or microwave popcorn use trans fat to help cook or flavour the popcorn.
Fried food - Foods that require deep frying — french fries, doughnuts and fried chicken — can contain trans fat from the oil used in the cooking process.
Refrigerator dough - Products such as canned biscuits and cinnamon rolls often contain trans fat, as do frozen pizza crusts.
Creamer and margarine - Nondairy coffee creamer and stick margarines also may contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.
Where to donate in the UAE
The Emirates Charity Portal
You can donate to several registered charities through a “donation catalogue”. The use of the donation is quite specific, such as buying a fan for a poor family in Niger for Dh130.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments
The site has an e-donation service accepting debit card, credit card or e-Dirham, an electronic payment tool developed by the Ministry of Finance and First Abu Dhabi Bank.
Al Noor Special Needs Centre
You can donate online or order Smiles n’ Stuff products handcrafted by Al Noor students. The centre publishes a wish list of extras needed, starting at Dh500.
Beit Al Khair Society
Beit Al Khair Society has the motto “From – and to – the UAE,” with donations going towards the neediest in the country. Its website has a list of physical donation sites, but people can also contribute money by SMS, bank transfer and through the hotline 800-22554.
Dar Al Ber Society
Dar Al Ber Society, which has charity projects in 39 countries, accept cash payments, money transfers or SMS donations. Its donation hotline is 800-79.
Dubai Cares
Dubai Cares provides several options for individuals and companies to donate, including online, through banks, at retail outlets, via phone and by purchasing Dubai Cares branded merchandise. It is currently running a campaign called Bookings 2030, which allows people to help change the future of six underprivileged children and young people.
Emirates Airline Foundation
Those who travel on Emirates have undoubtedly seen the little donation envelopes in the seat pockets. But the foundation also accepts donations online and in the form of Skywards Miles. Donated miles are used to sponsor travel for doctors, surgeons, engineers and other professionals volunteering on humanitarian missions around the world.
Emirates Red Crescent
On the Emirates Red Crescent website you can choose between 35 different purposes for your donation, such as providing food for fasters, supporting debtors and contributing to a refugee women fund. It also has a list of bank accounts for each donation type.
Gulf for Good
Gulf for Good raises funds for partner charity projects through challenges, like climbing Kilimanjaro and cycling through Thailand. This year’s projects are in partnership with Street Child Nepal, Larchfield Kids, the Foundation for African Empowerment and SOS Children's Villages. Since 2001, the organisation has raised more than $3.5 million (Dh12.8m) in support of over 50 children’s charities.
Noor Dubai Foundation
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the Noor Dubai Foundation a decade ago with the aim of eliminating all forms of preventable blindness globally. You can donate Dh50 to support mobile eye camps by texting the word “Noor” to 4565 (Etisalat) or 4849 (du).
Benefits of first-time home buyers' scheme
- Priority access to new homes from participating developers
- Discounts on sales price of off-plan units
- Flexible payment plans from developers
- Mortgages with better interest rates, faster approval times and reduced fees
- DLD registration fee can be paid through banks or credit cards at zero interest rates
Pad Man
Dir: R Balki
Starring: Akshay Kumar, Sonam Kapoor, Radhika Apte
Three-and-a-half stars
