The Times of India

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.

Air India group is adding 62 extra flights to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, boosting India-Gulf connectivity amid regional air route disruptions. This move aims to help thousands of stranded passengers and restore vital travel links for millions of expatriates. The expanded schedule prioritizes key Gulf destinations, offering much-needed relief.

Abu Dhabi emergency teams swiftly contained a fire at an Al Mushrif construction site storing building materials on Saturday evening. The blaze, which posed no immediate casualty reports, prompted authorities to urge the public against spreading unverified information. Investigations into the cause are ongoing, with the incident occurring amidst heightened regional tensions.

Donald Trumps call for Irans unconditional surrender revives a wartime slogan that assumes a state capable of capitulating. Political scientist Francis Fukuyama argues Irans fragmented power structure and ideological foundations make that unlikely. The demand reflects broader uncertainty about Washingtons objectives, exposing the limits of military force and the persistence of geopolitical and civilisational tensions in the postCold War world.

Tensions surge as Iran warns residents to evacuate UAE ports, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, claiming they are used by US forces. This unprecedented threat follows US strikes on Iran's oil hub, escalating fears of a wider regional conflict. The warning highlights the vulnerability of vital economic centers and global energy markets.

UAE residents are embracing new ways to save money amidst rising living costs. Digital budgeting apps, automated savings tools and smart banking platforms are becoming essential. These technologies help track spending and build savings efficiently. Deal and rewards apps also offer savings opportunities. Financial discipline remains key to long-term financial health.

Middle East conflict triggers force majeure declarations from Gulf energy producers like Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. Attacks and shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have halted oil and gas exports, causing global price spikes and supply chain concerns amid Iran vs US-Israel war. This legal clause highlights the immediate economic impact of geopolitical instability on energy markets.

Dubai's Global Village will not have its usual Eid Al Fitr fireworks this year. The popular attraction remains closed due to safety precautions. This decision follows country-wide directives restricting fireworks and drone shows. The closure is linked to heightened regional tensions. Authorities are prioritizing safety as the region navigates current geopolitical situations. Visitors should check official channels for updates.

The UAE Cyber Security Council has issued a critical alert regarding the escalating threat of wiper malware, a destructive software designed to permanently delete data and cripple systems. Residents and organizations are urged to bolster digital safety practices, as this advanced threat targets both individuals and businesses, emphasizing the need for robust backups and vigilance against sophisticated cyber warfare tactics.

A Filipino domestic worker has been arrested in Saudi Arabia's Madinah region, accused of fatally stabbing a child in his home. Security patrols apprehended the suspect shortly after the alleged attack. The case has now been transferred to the Public Prosecution for further investigation and legal proceedings, as confirmed by Saudi Arabia's Public Security.

Amidst escalating Iran vs US-Israel war, Standard Chartered clarified reports of a Dubai office evacuation, stating it extended existing work-from-home measures as a precaution. The bank emphasised its regional operations remain active. This comes as other financial institutions also implement safety protocols, highlighting Dubai's crucial role as a financial hub facing geopolitical risks.

The US is significantly expanding its military presence in the Middle East, deploying thousands of Marines and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli amid escalating tensions with Iran. This move aims to deter further Iranian aggression, protect vital shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz and provide the US with greater response options in the rapidly widening regional conflict.