Embarking on the new year, Warner Bros. Discovery unveils a captivating lineup of fresh shows and episodes set to premiere this January, offering a delightful experience for young viewers on Cartoon Network, Cartoon Network Arabic, and Cartoonito. Brimming with episodes that tell tales of bravery, friendship, and the spirit of the new year, our carefully curated programming aims to captivate and entertain our youthful audience.

Expect a season brimming with magic, showcasing beloved characters, and welcoming new heroes who embody the spirit of the upcoming year. Tune in to Cartoon Network, Cartoon Network Arabic, and Cartoonito to embark on a journey filled with delightful memories and festive cheer for all!

Cartoonito – Silly Sundays – New Show

Start Date: Monday, 1^st January 2024

Schedule: Sunday – Friday  @ 9:30 KSA/ 10:30 UAE/ 07:30 CET

In this feel-good comedy series, Sonia, Hugo, and Mel create full-of-heart memories with Mom, Dad, and Granny on those playful days spent with family and friends.

Cartoon Network Arabic – Scooby Doo and Guess Who?

Start Date: Sunday, 7^th January 2024

Schedule: Sunday – Thursday @ 16:30 KSA

Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy and Scooby-Doo join forces with some of the biggest names in celebrity and pop culture.

Cartoon Network – Teen Titans Go!

Start Date: Monday 8^th January 2024

Schedule: Weekdays @ 16:00 KSA / 17:00 UAE / 14:00 CET

A team of five teenaged superheroes save the world from many villains around their city while experiencing things normal teens face today. Robin, Starfire, Cyborg, Beast Boy and Raven continue the fun in TEEN TITANS GO! with all-new comedic adventures, giving viewers a look at what life is really like as a teen superhero … once the cape comes off.

For those seeking a spectacular fireworks display to welcome the New Year, the UAE has a tradition of hosting vibrant celebrations in various locations. However, it’s important to note that Sharjah has opted to refrain from festivities this year in solidarity with Gaza.

Abu Dhabi

1. Sheikh Zayed Festival: A significant display lasting 60 minutes aims to set three new Guinness World Records for quantity, time, and formation.
2. Yas Bay: Fireworks commence at 9 pm, continuing until 12 am on January 1, 2024.
3. Yas Links: Enjoy fireworks starting at 9 pm on December 31, 2024.
4. Al Maryah Island Promenade: The celebration includes a midnight fireworks show to usher in the New Year.
5. Hudayriyat Island: A vibrant fireworks display can be witnessed on Hudayriyat Island as the clock strikes midnight.

Dubai

1. Burj Khalifa: The iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks are scheduled for midnight; note that this year’s event is ticketed, with online tickets already sold out.
2. Palm Jumeirah: Experience a dazzling fireworks show along the island’s shoreline, attracting residents and tourists alike.
3. Burj Al Arab: Dubai’s renowned 7-star hotel will host a captivating fireworks display, providing a memorable start to 2024.
4. Hatta: The Hatta festival features nightly fireworks at 8 pm until December 31, concluding with a spectacular light and color show.
5. Al Seef: Daily fireworks at 9 pm, culminating in a special New Year’s Eve show at 11.59 pm.
6. Bluewaters: The island offers live entertainment starting at 7 pm, concluding the night with fireworks at midnight.
7. The Beach: Join the festive atmosphere at JBR’s The Beach, featuring a colorful fireworks display at 11.59 pm on New Year’s Eve.
8. Global Village: This popular festival park will illuminate the skies with seven New Year’s celebrations, synchronized with different time zones from 8 pm to 1 am.

Ras Al Khaimah

Stretching along the 4.5 km waterfront between Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village, the display aims to set new records. Residents and visitors can choose between two events, including a free public celebration with DJ entertainment, kids’ activities, food trucks, and designated areas for bachelors and families.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA) announced the arrest of an international criminal group involved in illegal immigration operations to certain European countries. The arrest was a result of meticulous surveillance, using a tracking system to gather information on illegal activities, investigations, and a comprehensive database detailing the network and its members.

Lt. Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, highlighted the department’s commitment to security, emphasizing collaborative efforts to address cross-border crimes. The successful dismantling of the network and arrests demonstrate GDRFA’s commitment and coordinated efforts with strategic partners in addressing security challenges.

The gang’s logistical coordinator was closely monitored, leading to their swift arrest and subsequent legal proceedings. The GDRFA is dedicated to enhancing readiness, deploying advanced systems, improving personnel efficiency, and fostering collaboration with international security authorities.

On the last day of the year in Dubai, residents may experience dense cloud cover with a chance of drizzle in the evening. Eisa Al Sereidi, Head of General Meteorology at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), indicated that the ongoing winter months in the UAE are contributing to fog formation, with a gradual reduction expected in the following days.

On New Year’s Eve, internal areas may experience probable fog, with cloud cover expected over coastal areas, particularly in the northern and eastern regions. There is a possibility of light rain or drizzle associated with the cloud cover. December has seen lower rainfall compared to the same month in previous years, with high pressure hindering rain-bearing clouds over the UAE.

The coming weekend may see an extension of high pressure, causing possible drizzling in the region. Sereidi warned of colder days in January, historically the coldest month, with temperatures likely to drop by four to five degrees.

Dubai Customs successfully thwarted a drug smuggling attempt, seizing 234.68 kilograms of narcotics, specifically hashish, in a wooden ship at the Dubai Creek and Deira Wharfage Customs Centre. The operation, named ‘Wheelhouse,’ utilized the ‘Siyaj’ task force and advanced Periscope technology for meticulous inspection of confined spaces, leading to the discovery of the illicit substances cleverly concealed within the ship’s wheelhouse.

The ‘Siyaj’ initiative employs modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, canines, and electric vehicles to proactively detect and prevent the infiltration of prohibited materials, reinforcing Dubai’s position in international trade and ensuring border security. Dubai Customs plays a crucial role in combating drug-related risks and health hazards, contributing to national security efforts and safeguarding the community.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, chairman and CEO of DP World Group, and chairman of Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, highlighted Dubai’s leadership role in combating drug-related risks and health hazards. He emphasized the pivotal role played by Dubai Customs in national security efforts, safeguarding the community from major threats like drug smuggling.

Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, director-general of Dubai Customs, CEO of Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, underscored the priority of protecting society from hazardous and smuggled substances, while facilitating legitimate trade activities.

Rashed Alsuwaidi, acting director of Maritime Customs Centers, highlighted the role of unique devices, such as the rapid container inspection device and the world’s first X-ray scanning device for heavy and light vehicles, in detecting substances, further enhancing the capabilities of Customs officials.

Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) has introduced flexible payment options for its transport services through a strategic partnership with payment company Tabby. This collaboration, a first in the UAE’s transport sector for postpaid services, enables customers to access interest-free credit balances and short-term installment programs.

The agreement aims to redefine postpaid transport services, offering a new level of flexibility in payment solutions, including those for limousine services. DTC CEO Mansoor Rahma Al Falasi emphasized the company’s commitment to integrating innovative solutions to enhance transportation services and contribute to Dubai’s goal of becoming one of the happiest cities. This move makes Dubai Taxi the first in the UAE to introduce a postpaid model for transport services.

Tabby CEO Hosam Arab expressed excitement about extending flexible payment options through the partnership.

The UAE has urgently called for a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting on December 29 to address the escalating situation in the West Bank and its potential impact on the viability of the two-state solution. The call comes amid reports of extremist settler violence and Israeli raids, posing a severe risk to the political horizon for Israel and Palestine.

The Gaza health ministry reports over 21,000 people killed and 55,603 wounded since the conflict erupted on October 7. Violence has also spread across the West Bank, with at least 314 Palestinians killed. A UN report emphasizes the rapidly deteriorating human rights situation and urges Israel to cease unlawful killings of Palestinians.

Israeli forces recently raided money exchange shops in the West Bank, alleging funding support for armed groups. The situation remains critical, prompting the UAE’s call for immediate UNSC intervention.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu Mandir on February 14, 2024. The opening will be marked with a ‘Festival of Harmony.’

The temple, representing the message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The World Is One Family), aims to be a spiritual space reflecting diverse cultures. The inauguration ceremony, led by Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, will be invitation-only, with public access starting on February 18.

The temple, built on 27 acres, features intricate carvings depicting stories from Hindu scriptures, as well as narratives from various civilizations. The project, recognized by Modi, emphasizes India’s spiritual leadership on the global stage.

The temple is considered a “spiritual oasis for global harmony” and is expected to last over 1,000 years. Further details regarding the opening ceremony and registration can be found by downloading the app Festival of Harmony or visiting https://festivalofharmony.ae.

The UAE is experiencing thick fog, leading to red and yellow alerts issued by the National Centre of Meteorology.

The Abu Dhabi Police have reduced the speed limit to 80km/hr on certain roads due to poor visibility. The weather is expected to be fair to partly cloudy, with clouds in the east by afternoon. Residents are cautioned about reduced visibility until 10 am. The temperature is forecasted to drop to 7ºC in mountainous areas, while internal areas may reach a high of 29ºC.

Humidity is expected at night and Saturday morning, with a chance of fog or mist in coastal and internal areas. Light to moderate winds are anticipated, and the sea will be slight in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea.

A family dispute over Christmas gifts in Largo, Florida, turned tragic as a 14-year-old brother fatally shot his 23-year-old sister during an argument. The incident occurred on Christmas Eve, and the conflict escalated at their grandmother’s house.

The sister, holding her 11-month-old son, attempted to intervene, but the 14-year-old shot her in the chest. The 15-year-old brother then retaliated by shooting the 14-year-old outside the home. The 14-year-old has been charged with first-degree murder, child abuse, and firearm possession, while the 15-year-old faces charges of attempted first-degree murder and tampering with evidence.

The latter has been taken to a mental health facility due to self-harm threats. Legal representation for the brothers is not yet reported.