The Times of India

Rory McEntee, a Dubai-based businessman stranded in the UK during Middle East flight disruptions, said he was desperate to return, arguing the UAE felt safer than London despite missile threats. He criticised the UK government for offering zero help and pointed to constant petty crime in London, calling the situation no way to live and reinforcing his long-running safety concerns.

Satellite internet from Elon Musk's Starlink has officially launched in the UAE, offering a new connectivity option. While monthly plans start around Dh230, a significant upfront hardware cost is required. Starlink utilizes low-Earth orbit satellites for faster speeds and lower latency, especially in remote areas.

UAE residents can now plan for Eid Al-Fitr 2026, with prayer timings announced across all emirates, scheduled shortly after sunrise. While official confirmation hinges on the Shawwal moon sighting on March 18, preparations are underway for mosque-based prayers. The festive mood is building as holidays and travel plans are finalized.

Tesla has activated free Supercharging across its UAE network and select Gulf locations, a move reserved for challenging times. This temporary relief for electric vehicle owners applies to numerous charging points in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The company has not specified an end date for this customer support initiative.

Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayers in the UAE will be held exclusively inside mosques nationwide, suspending traditional outdoor prayer grounds. This significant shift aims to enhance public safety and streamline organisation amidst heightened regional sensitivities due to the ongoing Iran vs US-Israel war. While the venue changes, the timing and spiritual essence of the celebration remain intact.

UAE authorities have arrested an individual for filming in restricted areas without a permit, highlighting a crackdown on unauthorised content creation amid rising regional tensions. This incident underscores strict regulations against capturing sensitive infrastructure or security details, with legal consequences even without proven harmful intent. The clear message is to prioritise permits before filming.

UAE residents received rare emergency alerts for a potential missile threat, followed by loud sounds across Dubai. Authorities clarified these were successful air defence interceptions, not impacts. This incident, a direct consequence of escalating Iran vs US-Israel war, saw hundreds of aerial threats neutralised, highlighting the proximity of war to the Gulf and the importance of staying informed through official channels.

Dubai's Eid ul Fitr 2026 celebrations will see extended metro and tram services, running until 1:00 am daily, with earlier starts for morning prayers. Free public parking will be available for the first three days of Eid, excluding multi-storey facilities. These adjusted timings aim to manage the festive rush and enhance mobility across the emirate.

As Eid ul Fitr potentially falls on a Friday in 2026, the UAE Fatwa Council clarifies that both Eid and Jummah prayers are obligatory and must be performed separately. This ruling emphasises the distinct significance of each prayer, reinforcing consistency in religious observance and communal worship for Muslims in the UAE.

Ramadan 2026 brings focus to Zakat al Fitr, a vital Muslim charity. In the UAE, the amount is set at Dh25 per person or equivalent food. This obligation ensures that the less fortunate can celebrate Eid with dignity as payments are due before Eid prayers. Approved channels facilitate transparent distribution. This tradition highlights compassion and collective care.

Eid al-Fitr 2026 is being observed with heightened security and subdued celebrations across the Middle East due to ongoing regional conflicts and humanitarian crises. From Saudi Arabia's increased precautions to scaled-back events in the UAE and displacement in Lebanon, the festival's traditional joy is overshadowed by war and instability, impacting millions.

UAE schools are adopting a flexible, phased approach to distance learning following the spring break, extending remote classes for several weeks. This decision prioritizes student safety amidst regional uncertainty, with institutions implementing varied reopening timelines. The shift signifies a move towards a more adaptable and hybrid education model.

Archaeologists in Saudi Arabia uncovered a 13,500-year-old human settlement, revealing sophisticated tools and evidence of organized hunter-gatherer communities. This discovery pushes back the timeline of human history in the Arabian Peninsula, demonstrating a thriving desert society with long-term occupation and extensive trade networks, challenging previous notions of the region's marginal role in early human development.

Morocco celebrated the sacred Laylat ul Qadr with King Mohammed VI leading a spiritual vigil. The event honoured Quranic scholars and students, reinforcing the nation's commitment to Islamic learning. This observance blends deep religious devotion with unique cultural traditions, showcasing the monarchy's role in preserving faith and heritage. Dignitaries attended, underscoring Morocco's ties with Muslim nations.

Muslims in the UAE and Saudi Arabia are observing Laylat ul-Qadr, the holiest night in Islam. Thousands are gathering in mosques for special prayers and reflection. This sacred night occurs during the final ten days of Ramadan. Believers seek forgiveness of God and blessings. Preparations for Eid al-Fitr are also underway as Ramadan concludes.

Saudi Arabia has called upon Muslims to sight the Shawwal crescent moon on Wednesday evening, March 18, 2026, to determine the start of Eid Al Fitr. This sighting dictates the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the festival. Many global Muslim communities await Saudi Arabia's announcement, though South Asian nations may observe a day later based on local moon sightings.

Oman Air has extended flight suspensions to nine international destinations until March 31 due to ongoing Middle East airspace restrictions. The airline cited evolving security situations and flight safety as reasons for the cancellations, impacting major hubs like Dubai and Doha. Passengers are advised to check bookings as disruptions continue to affect regional and global travel networks.

Emirates has resumed flight operations from Dubai International Airport after a temporary suspension due to security concerns amid Iran vs US-Israel war. The disruption, caused by a drone incident near Dubai International Airport, affected global travel networks. The airline is gradually restoring its schedule after safety checks, highlighting its operational resilience and Dubai's crucial role as a global aviation hub.

Amidst escalating Iran vs US-Israel war, Air India has rerouted flights from Dubai to Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, temporarily suspending services to the major hub. This disruption, driven by security concerns and airspace restrictions, impacts global aviation. Other Indian carriers also face potential schedule changes as the region's vital air corridors remain under strain, causing passenger confusion and delays.

A missile strike in Abu Dhabi's Al Bahyah district killed one Palestinian national, marking a serious security incident linked to the ongoing Iran vs US-Israel war. While the UAE has strong air defences, this rare event highlights the unpredictable reach of regional hostilities into civilian areas. Authorities are investigating and urging public caution.

Global oil prices have surged past $100 per barrel due to escalating Middle East tensions, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz. This volatility directly impacts fuel costs for UAE residents, with prices expected to rise if crude remains high. Other GCC nations also face potential price adjustments, though subsidies offer some buffer in Kuwait.

A drone strike on a fuel storage tank near Dubai International Airport sparked a large fire early Monday, leading authorities to shut down four major roads. Flight operations were briefly suspended as emergency teams controlled the blaze, with no injuries reported. The incident occurred amid rising regional tensions, with security analysts noting increased targeting of critical infrastructure.

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have sent shockwaves through India's stock markets, erasing an estimated $240 billion in investor wealth. Soaring oil prices and foreign investor withdrawals amplified the sell-off, impacting sectors from banking to automobiles. Experts urge calm, noting historical market resilience post-crises but future direction hinges on Iran vs US-Israel war de-escalation.

Amidst Iran vs US-Israel war travel chaos, SpiceJet launched special flights from Fujairah in UAE to India, aiding hundreds stranded by regional tensions. This move highlights the vital India-Gulf air corridor's resilience and airlines' swift adaptation to geopolitical crises. The emergency services, utilising Fujairah as a less congested hub, are crucial in clearing travel backlogs and reconnecting the regions.

Dubai is enhancing beach safety with new technology. Aquatic rescue robots and aerial drones are now assisting lifeguards. This system helps respond faster to emergencies at sea. The robots can reach swimmers quickly and tow them to safety. Drones provide aerial surveillance and deliver flotation devices. This integrated approach aims to prevent drowning and improve rescue efficiency for beachgoers.

UAE residents with children are set to receive free Fazaa memberships in 2026, a move by the government to boost social cohesion and ease living costs. This initiative, part of the 'Year of the Family,' offers extensive discounts on retail, dining, travel and entertainment, recognising families' contributions and fostering community well-being.

A sharp diplomatic row has erupted between the United Arab Emirates and Iran. Iran accused the UAE of aggression, a claim the UAE strongly denies. Emirati officials state their actions are purely defensive. The region faces heightened instability due to ongoing Iran vs US-Israel war. The UAE emphasises restraint and diplomacy while protecting its territory and citizens.

Amidst Iran vs US-Israel war travel chaos, the UAE has successfully repatriated nearly 500 Golden Visa holders and residents stranded abroad due to airspace closures. This swift action highlights the nation's robust emergency response and flexible immigration policies, ensuring the safety and well-being of expatriates during geopolitical uncertainty. The initiative underscores the UAE's commitment to its international community.

Dubai has enacted a new law to modernise its Police Academy, aiming to enhance policing through technology and advanced training. The legislation establishes a new governance structure, expands academic programs to include digital transformation and mandates a five-year service commitment for graduates. This initiative reinforces Dubai's commitment to maintaining its status as a global leader in safety and innovation.

Qatar has announced a seven-day Eid Al Fitr holiday for public sector employees, running from March 17 to March 23, 2026. This extended break allows government workers to celebrate the end of Ramadan with family and participate in festivities. The private sector is expected to offer at least three paid leave days, with many aligning with the government's schedule.