Thelma and Louise, Timon and Pumbaa, Holmes and Watson – pop culture has no end of BFFs platonically taking on life together. And, according to experts, life is beginning to imitate art.
Marriage rates have fallen dramatically in recent years, with multiple reports noting that nearly 90 per cent of the world’s population live in countries with falling marriage rates. For instance, fewer than 50 per cent of Britons are now tying the knot, according to the Office of National Statistics.
At the same time, more of us are prioritising our pals, with experts stressing that friendships – perhaps more so than relationships – are essential for good mental health.
In literature, fiction by the likes of Elizabeth Day put friendship firmly at the forefront, with relatable protagonists nudging the Mr Darceys and Rochesters of novels past into sad insignificance. In his 2021 non-fiction book Friends, British anthropologist and evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar claims the benefits of a circle of close friends far outweigh those of any single relationship and that maintaining one is the best thing you can do for your health.
But what does friendship mean to us in daily life?
The science of friendship
Often ignored by academia, friendship is now firmly in the spotlight among scientists. Researchers at the University of Utah found people with good friends recover faster from illnesses and surgery, while a study by the University of Cambridge identified social connection as the most important factor to ward off recurrent depressive disorder, cutting the risk by 18 per cent.
According to Devika Mankani, a holistic psychologist at The Hundred Wellness Centre in Dubai, modern friendships have evolved with the times, as more people stay single by choice.
Friendships are perceived as less conditional, offering stability amid the complexities of modern romantic relationships
Devika Mankani,
holistic psychologist, The Hundred Wellness Centre
“Friendships offer a unique blend of unconditional support, mutual interests and shared experiences that differ from romantic relationships,” says Mankani. “They often lack the pressures and expectations that can accompany romantic relationships, allowing for more straightforward communication and acceptance.
“The platonic nature of friendships can foster a different kind of emotional intimacy and provide a diverse perspective that enriches our lives.”
Mankani, who is also the co-founder of Chearful.com, believes many of us are experiencing disillusionment with traditional romance and prioritising friendships out of a desire for autonomy. “Friendships are perceived as more enduring and less conditional, offering stability amid the complexities of modern romantic relationships,” she says.
“Additionally, as societal norms shift, there's a greater acceptance and valorisation of diverse forms of relationships, with friendships being recognised as equally significant.”
The rules of modern friendship
There are endless self-help books dedicated to marriage and relationships, while couple therapy has long been established as a tool for eking out resolutions. In comparison, the rules surrounding friendship are less clear, though many of us have strong beliefs about what constitutes being a good friend.
A 2022 study published in Evolutionary Behavioural Sciences journal cited selfishness as the main reason for friendships ending, followed by lack of frequent interaction and romantic involvement.
Etiquette has also changed over the years, with formal friendships of the past replaced with more intimate bonds, and different expectations as a result. “Traditional etiquette emphasises formality, but the modern approach values authenticity, flexibility and individuality,” says Samira Hammadi, founder of the Modern Etiquette Consultancy in the UAE.
Acknowledge messages promptly, even if a more extended reply is necessary
Samira Hammadi,
founder, Modern Etiquette Consultancy
“Friendships now allow for more personal expression and adaptability, creating dynamics that cater to unique needs and personalities. This shift highlights the importance of being genuine within your friendships and respecting the individuality of others.”
In today’s busy world, being responsive and finding time to meet up can be difficult, but are necessary for making our friends feel valued, according to Hammadi.
“Acknowledge messages promptly, even if a more extended reply is necessary. This demonstrates that you value your friend and their communication,” she says.
“It’s also important to make an effort with face-to-face connections when possible and take the initiative to make plans. Don’t wait for the other person to reach out. Check in and show you're invested in the connection.”
It’s not you, it’s me
Whereas ending a marriage or romantic relationship leaves little room for doubt, scrapping a friendship can pose a dilemma, with bad behaviour more readily excused. Hammadi urges not to set expectations too high and to be prepared to give and take, through warns against ignoring red flags.
“If you consistently feel drained, taken advantage of or disrespected, pay attention to those feelings,” she says. “Good friendships shouldn't consistently leave you feeling this way.
“Ending friendships can be challenging, and there's no single right approach. Prioritise kindness and respect and tailor the level of directness to the closeness of the friendship.
“A brief, considerate message signalling the change is often suitable. Avoid ghosting completely unless you feel that the friendship is emotionally harmful; a simple farewell offers closure and demonstrates respect.
“Recognise the emotional impact, process your feelings and practise self-compassion.”
About Karol Nawrocki
• Supports military aid for Ukraine, unlike other eurosceptic leaders, but he will oppose its membership in western alliances.
• A nationalist, his campaign slogan was Poland First. "Let's help others, but let's take care of our own citizens first," he said on social media in April.
• Cultivates tough-guy image, posting videos of himself at shooting ranges and in boxing rings.
• Met Donald Trump at the White House and received his backing.
Who has been sanctioned?
Daniella Weiss and Nachala
Described as 'the grandmother of the settler movement', she has encouraged the expansion of settlements for decades. The 79 year old leads radical settler movement Nachala, whose aim is for Israel to annex Gaza and the occupied West Bank, where it helps settlers built outposts.
Harel Libi & Libi Construction and Infrastructure
Libi has been involved in threatening and perpetuating acts of aggression and violence against Palestinians. His firm has provided logistical and financial support for the establishment of illegal outposts.
Zohar Sabah
Runs a settler outpost named Zohar’s Farm and has previously faced charges of violence against Palestinians. He was indicted by Israel’s State Attorney’s Office in September for allegedly participating in a violent attack against Palestinians and activists in the West Bank village of Muarrajat.
Coco’s Farm and Neria’s Farm
These are illegal outposts in the West Bank, which are at the vanguard of the settler movement. According to the UK, they are associated with people who have been involved in enabling, inciting, promoting or providing support for activities that amount to “serious abuse”.
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Citizenship-by-investment programmes
United Kingdom
The UK offers three programmes for residency. The UK Overseas Business Representative Visa lets you open an overseas branch office of your existing company in the country at no extra investment. For the UK Tier 1 Innovator Visa, you are required to invest £50,000 (Dh238,000) into a business. You can also get a UK Tier 1 Investor Visa if you invest £2 million, £5m or £10m (the higher the investment, the sooner you obtain your permanent residency).
All UK residency visas get approved in 90 to 120 days and are valid for 3 years. After 3 years, the applicant can apply for extension of another 2 years. Once they have lived in the UK for a minimum of 6 months every year, they are eligible to apply for permanent residency (called Indefinite Leave to Remain). After one year of ILR, the applicant can apply for UK passport.
The Caribbean
Depending on the country, the investment amount starts from $100,000 (Dh367,250) and can go up to $400,000 in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take between four to five months to receive a passport.
Portugal
The investment amount ranges from €350,000 to €500,000 (Dh1.5m to Dh2.16m) in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take a maximum of six months to receive a Golden Visa. Applicants can apply for permanent residency after five years and Portuguese citizenship after six years.
“Among European countries with residency programmes, Portugal has been the most popular because it offers the most cost-effective programme to eventually acquire citizenship of the European Union without ever residing in Portugal,” states Veronica Cotdemiey of Citizenship Invest.
Greece
The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Greece is €250,000, making it the cheapest real estate residency visa scheme in Europe. You can apply for residency in four months and citizenship after seven years.
Spain
The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Spain is €500,000. You can apply for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after 10 years. It is not necessary to live in Spain to retain and renew the residency visa permit.
Cyprus
Cyprus offers the quickest route to citizenship of a European country in only six months. An investment of €2m in real estate is required, making it the highest priced programme in Europe.
Malta
The Malta citizenship by investment programme is lengthy and investors are required to contribute sums as donations to the Maltese government. The applicant must either contribute at least €650,000 to the National Development & Social Fund. Spouses and children are required to contribute €25,000; unmarried children between 18 and 25 and dependent parents must contribute €50,000 each.
The second step is to make an investment in property of at least €350,000 or enter a property rental contract for at least €16,000 per annum for five years. The third step is to invest at least €150,000 in bonds or shares approved by the Maltese government to be kept for at least five years.
Candidates must commit to a minimum physical presence in Malta before citizenship is granted. While you get residency in two months, you can apply for citizenship after a year.
Egypt
A one-year residency permit can be bought if you purchase property in Egypt worth $100,000. A three-year residency is available for those who invest $200,000 in property, and five years for those who purchase property worth $400,000.
Source: Citizenship Invest and Aqua Properties
Other workplace saving schemes
- The UAE government announced a retirement savings plan for private and free zone sector employees in 2023.
- Dubai’s savings retirement scheme for foreign employees working in the emirate’s government and public sector came into effect in 2022.
- National Bonds unveiled a Golden Pension Scheme in 2022 to help private-sector foreign employees with their financial planning.
- In April 2021, Hayah Insurance unveiled a workplace savings plan to help UAE employees save for their retirement.
- Lunate, an Abu Dhabi-based investment manager, has launched a fund that will allow UAE private companies to offer employees investment returns on end-of-service benefits.
Turkish Ladies
Various artists, Sony Music Turkey
Warlight,
Michael Ondaatje, Knopf
MIDWAY
Produced: Lionsgate Films, Shanghai Ryui Entertainment, Street Light Entertainment
Directed: Roland Emmerich
Cast: Ed Skrein, Woody Harrelson, Dennis Quaid, Aaron Eckhart, Luke Evans, Nick Jonas, Mandy Moore, Darren Criss
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Dust and sand storms compared
Sand storm
- Particle size: Larger, heavier sand grains
- Visibility: Often dramatic with thick "walls" of sand
- Duration: Short-lived, typically localised
- Travel distance: Limited
- Source: Open desert areas with strong winds
Dust storm
- Particle size: Much finer, lightweight particles
- Visibility: Hazy skies but less intense
- Duration: Can linger for days
- Travel distance: Long-range, up to thousands of kilometres
- Source: Can be carried from distant regions
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MOUNTAINHEAD REVIEW
Starring: Ramy Youssef, Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman
Director: Jesse Armstrong
Rating: 3.5/5
Defence review at a glance
• Increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 but given “turbulent times it may be necessary to go faster”
• Prioritise a shift towards working with AI and autonomous systems
• Invest in the resilience of military space systems.
• Number of active reserves should be increased by 20%
• More F-35 fighter jets required in the next decade
• New “hybrid Navy” with AUKUS submarines and autonomous vessels
BUNDESLIGA FIXTURES
Friday (UAE kick-off times)
Borussia Dortmund v Paderborn (11.30pm)
Saturday
Bayer Leverkusen v SC Freiburg (6.30pm)
Werder Bremen v Schalke (6.30pm)
Union Berlin v Borussia Monchengladbach (6.30pm)
Eintracht Frankfurt v Wolfsburg (6.30pm)
Fortuna Dusseldof v Bayern Munich (6.30pm)
RB Leipzig v Cologne (9.30pm)
Sunday
Augsburg v Hertha Berlin (6.30pm)
Hoffenheim v Mainz (9pm)
Getting%20there%20and%20where%20to%20stay
%3Cp%3EFly%20with%20Etihad%20Airways%20from%20Abu%20Dhabi%20to%20New%20York%E2%80%99s%20JFK.%20There's%2011%20flights%20a%20week%20and%20economy%20fares%20start%20at%20around%20Dh5%2C000.%3Cbr%3EStay%20at%20The%20Mark%20Hotel%20on%20the%20city%E2%80%99s%20Upper%20East%20Side.%20Overnight%20stays%20start%20from%20%241395%20per%20night.%3Cbr%3EVisit%20NYC%20Go%2C%20the%20official%20destination%20resource%20for%20New%20York%20City%20for%20all%20the%20latest%20events%2C%20activites%20and%20openings.%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Analysis
Maros Sefcovic is juggling multiple international trade agreement files, but his message was clear when he spoke to The National on Wednesday.
The EU-UAE bilateral trade deal will be finalised soon, he said. It is in everyone’s interests to do so. Both sides want to move quickly and are in alignment. He said the UAE is a very important partner for the EU. It’s full speed ahead - and with some lofty ambitions - on the road to a free trade agreement.
We also talked about US-EU tariffs. He answered that both sides need to talk more and more often, but he is prepared to defend Europe's position and said diplomacy should be a guiding principle through the current moment.
Greatest of All Time
Starring: Vijay, Sneha, Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, Mohan
Mica
Director: Ismael Ferroukhi
Stars: Zakaria Inan, Sabrina Ouazani
3 stars
Padmaavat
Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Starring: Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, Jim Sarbh
3.5/5
Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
- Specialist robotics and science laboratories
- AR and VR-enabled learning centres
- Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
Company Profile
Name: Thndr
Started: 2019
Co-founders: Ahmad Hammouda and Seif Amr
Sector: FinTech
Headquarters: Egypt
UAE base: Hub71, Abu Dhabi
Current number of staff: More than 150
Funds raised: $22 million
The five pillars of Islam
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
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McLaren GT specs
Engine: 4-litre twin-turbo V8
Transmission: seven-speed
Power: 620bhp
Torque: 630Nm
Price: Dh875,000
On sale: now
match info
Manchester United 3 (Martial 7', 44', 74')
Sheffield United 0
Simran
Director Hansal Mehta
Stars: Kangana Ranaut, Soham Shah, Esha Tiwari Pandey
Three stars
From Europe to the Middle East, economic success brings wealth - and lifestyle diseases
A rise in obesity figures and the need for more public spending is a familiar trend in the developing world as western lifestyles are adopted.
One in five deaths around the world is now caused by bad diet, with obesity the fastest growing global risk. A high body mass index is also the top cause of metabolic diseases relating to death and disability in Kuwait, Qatar and Oman – and second on the list in Bahrain.
In Britain, heart disease, lung cancer and Alzheimer’s remain among the leading causes of death, and people there are spending more time suffering from health problems.
The UK is expected to spend $421.4 billion on healthcare by 2040, up from $239.3 billion in 2014.
And development assistance for health is talking about the financial aid given to governments to support social, environmental development of developing countries.
'My Son'
Director: Christian Carion
Starring: James McAvoy, Claire Foy, Tom Cullen, Gary Lewis
Rating: 2/5
