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Elections 2026Middle East / The Times of India
Saudi Arabia has launched a pilot Tourist Package Visa service for easier travel. This new initiative combines flights, hotels, and visa processing into one booking. The program aims to simplify travel arrangements for visitors planning trips to the Kingdom. Currently, the pilot phase is available for travelers from select countries like India and Pakistan. This integrated approach supports Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030 tourism goals.
The UAE Ministry of Higher Education revoked Horizon University College's license due to severe and repeated violations. This action immediately halts all academic activities and student admissions at the institution. The ministry is coordinating with other universities to ensure students can continue their education. Affected learners will receive support during this transition process. This move reinforces the UAE's commitment to maintaining high academic standards.
A foreign bank branch in the UAE has been fined Dh1.82 million for failing to issue a customer's liability letter within the mandated seven-day period. This penalty underscores the Central Bank of the UAE's commitment to consumer protection and enforcing market conduct regulations. The move highlights the importance of timely financial documentation for customers and signals a stricter regulatory environment for banks operating in the country.
The UAE is cracking down on employers violating its summer midday work ban, with fines up to Dh50,000, permit suspensions, and legal action threatened. This crucial worker welfare measure, running until September 15, prohibits outdoor work between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm to prevent heat-related illnesses. Employers must provide shaded rest areas and water, with inspectors actively monitoring compliance across the nation.
Following disruption in outsourced consular services, Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai introduce advance booking portal; emergency cases to get priority.