The Times of India News

Kuwait has introduced new residency rules capping expat stays abroad at six months, aiming to manage its population. However, long-term visas for investors and property owners offer extended stays. Stricter rules apply to domestic workers, with new fees and penalties for overstays. The nation is also digitizing immigration services and cracking down on visa trading.

Dubai is gearing up for a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration, headlined by a record-breaking show at the Burj Khalifa. With multiple viewing locations and extensive road closures, the RTA advises early arrival and recommends using the Dubai Metro and shuttle buses for access to the main events.

The UAE has introduced a new federal decree law to unify and elevate its higher education and scientific research sectors. This legislation mandates rigorous licensing, accreditation, and governance standards for all institutions, ensuring academic quality and aligning programs with labor market needs and national development goals. The law also strengthens scientific research and introduces penalties for non-compliance.

Discover how to secure high-paying remote jobs in Dubai, with salaries exceeding AED 20,000 monthly, without needing to be physically present daily. This guide highlights six legitimate platforms actively welcoming global talent to tap into the UAE's thriving job market. Explore opportunities for long-term settlement and international exposure.

Bahrains Golden Residency reflects the Gulfs wider shift toward long-term settlement, offering a 10-year renewable visa focused on affordability, work freedom and livability. Positioned alongside UAE and Saudi reforms, Bahrain stands out for lower entry thresholds, tax-free income, strong expat integration and a business-friendly environment, making it a practical option for investors, professionals, families and retirees seeking stable Gulf residence.

Dubai's property market is entering a mature phase with rents expected to rise 6% in 2026 due to population growth. While prime areas like Marina will see steeper increases, expats can find value in emerging hubs like Dubai South and JVC. Savvy renters should leverage RERA's new AI-powered index for fair negotiations.

The UAE's GCAA is hosting a major aviation career fair in Dubai on January 21-22, 2026, connecting job seekers with airlines, airports, and aerospace firms. This event offers direct access to recruiters for roles in cabin crew, pilots, engineering, and more, streamlining the job search process for aspiring aviation professionals.

Saudi Arabia has suspended an Umrah company and its overseas agent after pilgrims arrived without the accommodation promised in approved contracts. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said the violation breached regulations governing services at the Two Holy Mosques. The move reflects tighter enforcement as Umrah numbers surge and visa approvals become increasingly tied to verified bookings through official platforms.

Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared a heartwarming desert experience with his children, Sheikha and Rashid, at Dubai's Ghamran Camp. The technology-free zone fostered traditional Emirati activities, emphasizing heritage skills and family bonding. This visit highlights the importance of preserving cultural identity for future generations.

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40, was named Best Middle East Player for the third consecutive year at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai. His move to Al-Nassr has significantly boosted the Saudi Pro League's global profile, with the Portuguese icon scoring over 100 goals and inspiring a Ronaldo Effect in the region.

Kuwait has launched a significant immigration overhaul, introducing e-services for visa and residency renewals, transfers, and new tiered residency options. A key highlight is a 15-year residency for foreign investors. These reforms aim to streamline processes, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance Kuwait's appeal for talent and investment, benefiting expatriate workers and families.

Lucky Day Draw No. 251227 on December 27 saw winning numbers 1, 28, 6, 7, 29, 27 for Days and 9 for Month. The Dh30 million and Dh5 million prizes rolled over to 2026. Three participants won Dh100,000 each in the Lucky Chance raffle, with thousands more securing smaller prizes. The lottery now holds weekly Saturday draws.

A Dubai resident's heartwarming gesture of a 500 AED Christmas tip to a delivery worker who doesn't celebrate the holiday has gone viral. The man's shocked and grateful reaction resonated globally, highlighting the impact of kindness and respect during the festive season.

The UAE-India aviation corridor is set for a significant expansion with new airlines, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress, and the operational Navi Mumbai International Airport. Increased flight options and competitive pricing are expected as airlines add capacity and introduce new routes, benefiting millions of travelers.

UAE residents face significant changes from January 1, 2026, with an expanded single-use plastic ban, new Friday prayer and school timings, stricter income tax refund rules, a social media influencer permit deadline, and a tiered sugar tax on beverages. These egulatory resets aim for a greener, more efficient nation, but demand strict compliance to avoid penalties.

Abu Dhabi has launched HawAQM, an advanced Indoor Air Quality Observatory, to continuously monitor air pollutants in schools, homes, and offices. Using high precision sensors, the system provides real-time data via a dedicated dashboard, enabling specialists to assess conditions and take immediate action. Part of ADPHCs public health strategy, HawAQM aims to ensure safer, healthier indoor environments across the emirate.

Kuwaits Civil Service Commission has announced January 1, 2026, as a public holiday, giving government employees a three-day New Year weekend through Saturday, January 3. Work will resume on Sunday, January 4. While most government offices will close, entities with special operational needs may adjust schedules to ensure essential services continue, allowing residents and officials to celebrate the New Year with minimal disruption.

Muscat Municipality has launched the Masar food truck hub to support small and medium enterprises and organize street vending. The site provides fully serviced spaces, designated parking, shaded seating, and essential utilities for food truck operators. Sohar International contributed 25 equipped trucks through its CSR program, enabling entrepreneurs to start businesses with minimal costs while enhancing visitor experiences.

The idea that Coca-Cola invented Santas red suit persists every Christmas, but history tells a different story. Long before 20th-century advertising, writers and artists across Europe and America had already shaped Santa as a rotund, red-clad figure. Coca-Cola didnt create the image; it amplified and standardised an existing tradition.

Dubai is gearing up for New Years Eve 2026 with a record 48 fireworks shows across 40 locations. The city will deploy over 23,000 security personnel, coordinate 55 agencies, and provide extensive medical and transportation support to manage millions of residents and tourists. Authorities urge the public to follow safety guidelines and use public transport.

A man was injured after jumping from the upper levels of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, prompting swift intervention by security forces. A security officer was injured during the rescue, with both taken to hospital. Saudi authorities confirmed legal procedures were completed and urged pilgrims to respect the sanctity of the holy site, emphasising the preservation of life.

Saudi Arabia has launched a new Halal Mark Track that integrates halal certification with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. Developed by the Saudi Halal Center in partnership with the Halal Product Development Company and THIQAH, the initiative aims to boost trust in halal products, enhance compliance, and support local and international businesses in expanding their reach and competitiveness.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has introduced a draft regulation for its White Land and Vacant Property Tax system, imposing strict violations and heavy fines. This initiative aims to compel landowners to develop idle land or face escalating financial penalties, encouraging productive use and boosting housing supply.

Sharjah has granted imams and muezzins government employee status, recognizing their role in serving mosques. Under a directive by Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, they will receive salaries, promotions, allowances, health insurance, and a AED 3,000 work allowance. Leave encashment is included, ensuring financial security and dignity. The decision strengthens community support and sets a benchmark for valuing religious service.