Oman will host the worlds first Operational Launch Programme for Laila, a hybrid-electric, fully autonomous VTOL aircraft developed by Odys Aviation. Capable of 725km range and 60kg payload, Laila will undergo comprehensive testing across Omans deserts, mountains, and coasts, supporting logistics, medical transport, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and advancing next-generation Advanced Air Mobility

Oman has launched a new industry body, the Association of Expatriate Worker Recruitment Offices, to modernize its labor market and regulate foreign worker hiring. This move aims to strengthen governance, ensure fair practices, and eliminate chaos from unlicensed operators, promoting transparency and ethical compliance across the recruitment sector.

Dubai is revolutionizing student nutrition with its My School Food digital platform, targeting over 400,000 students. This initiative, featuring an AI chatbot and e-learning, enforces strict, color-coded food guidelines to combat childhood health issues. The program aims to foster healthy eating habits and ensure safer, more nutritious meals across all educational institutions by the 2025-2026 academic year.

Saudi Arabia has quietly expanded access to alcohol, allowing non-Muslim expats to purchase it in Riyadh stores that were previously limited to diplomats. The move aligns with Vision 2030s goal to boost tourism and diversify the economy. Historically restricted, alcohol sales remain tightly controlled, but this change signals cautious openness toward expatriates while maintaining the kingdoms conservative regulations.

Japans first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, leads the nation yet remains barred from entering sumos sacred ring, prompting debate over the taboo against women in the dohyo. The rule is inconsistently applied, even as modern Japan questions its values, and Takaichis conservative stance complicates whether her historic leadership will challenge or uphold a tradition that has kept women outside the sports most sacred space.

Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved the emirates largest-ever Dh302.7 billion (~$83 billion) budget for 20262028. The three-year plan, projecting revenues of Dh329.2 billion (~$90 billion), aims to boost infrastructure, social development, and security, supporting Dubais goal of doubling its GDP and positioning the emirate among the worlds top three urban economies by 2033.

Kuwait allows visitors to convert visit visas to residency permits under five scenarios: government-related assignments, domestic worker employment, joining immediate family, resuming work visa processes after short departures, and exceptional cases approved by authorities. These measures, under Article 16, aim to facilitate legal long-term stays while maintaining strict immigration controls and supporting family, work, and government-related needs.

Oman is set to launch its first communications satellite, OmanSat-1, in partnership with Airbus Defence and Space, marking a major step in digital sovereignty and space capabilities. The satellite will expand secure communications across Oman and the region, support critical sectors, and develop local expertise, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 to drive technological independence and a knowledge-based economy.

The UAE has launched a $1 billion AI for Development initiative to support African nations in economic, social, and infrastructural growth. Led by ADEX and the UAE Foreign Aid Agency, the program integrates AI into education, agriculture, and infrastructure, promoting innovation, sustainable development, and global cooperation, reinforcing the UAEs position as a technological and humanitarian leader.

Dubai is set for Dubai Run 2025, with thousands expected to participate. To ensure smooth travel, the RTA will extend Metro services from 3:00am to midnight and close key roads from 3:00am to 10:00am. Alternative routes are suggested, and temporary Salik toll rates will apply. Participants should use World Trade Centre Metro Station and ensure sufficient nol card balance for hassle-free travel.

Oman is set to inaugurate a nationwide portfolio of development projects worth about RO1.4 billion as part of National Day celebrations. The programme spans major industrial ventures, upgraded water and road networks, and new referral hospitals and laboratories, advancing infrastructure, food security, and public services under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.

Saudi Arabia is opening its real estate market to foreigners from January 2026, allowing property ownership and investment. This move, part of Vision 2030, aims to attract global wealth, boost market quality, and create jobs.

Dubai Police Search & Rescue teams completed over 5,200 missions in the first 10 months of 2025, significantly reducing land-incident response times to an average of 5.8 minutes. This achievement, driven by smart technology and upgraded readiness, surpasses strategic targets and highlights the force's commitment to rapid emergency response.

Dubai's Crown Prince has launched the Erth Dubai Award, a significant initiative to collect and preserve the personal stories and cultural heritage that have shaped the Emirate. This program aims to strengthen Dubai's collective memory by capturing lived experiences, family archives, and oral traditions from residents and institutions, ensuring this living history is preserved for future generations.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs has launched a historic employment drive, announcing 31,000 new job openings for Imams and Muezzins. These positions operate under a flexible 'Rewards System,' allowing citizens to serve mosques while maintaining other employment.

Abu Dhabi's Integrated Transport Centre has imposed strict heavy vehicle restrictions during peak hours to combat congestion and enhance safety. Freight trucks and construction equipment face o-entry times on major roads and entry points. Operators must obtain permits and use digital tracking via the Asateel platform for compliance.

The UAE has announced a US$50 billion investment framework with Canada, targeting energy, artificial intelligence, logistics, mining, and other priority industries. Endorsed by senior leaders from both nations, the initiative aims to deepen economic cooperation, enhance high-value investment flows, and strengthen bilateral ties. As of 2024, UAE FDI in Canada reached US$8.8 billion, with Canadas investment in the UAE at US$242 million

Emirates has partnered with OpenAI to drive enterprise-wide AI adoption and innovation across airline operations. The collaboration will deploy ChatGPT Enterprise, launch AI literacy programs, establish an AI Centre of Excellence, and explore practical AI use cases. Executives and technology teams will work together to enhance operations, accelerate experimentation, and transform customer experience through AI-driven solutions.

Saad Al-Madi, a 75-year-old US-Saudi citizen and retired engineer, has returned to Florida after Saudi authorities lifted a travel ban that had kept him in the country since his 2021 arrest. Detained for critical tweets and sentenced to 19 years, he was released in 2023 but barred from leaving. His full freedom follows diplomatic engagement with the United States

Saudia Airlines, in partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority, has launched the Flight Pass, a subscription-based travel package for domestic trips. Travelers can choose 8, 16, or 24 flights, paying annually or quarterly. The pass is valid for 12 months, allows flight changes or cancellations, offers digital payment options, and subscribers can cancel within seven days if no tickets are issued.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to Abu Dhabi saw a significant deepening of economic ties with the UAE. The leaders signed an investment protection agreement and launched negotiations for a free trade deal, with the UAE committing $50 billion to Canadian projects.

Abu Dhabi's Natural History Museum officially opens its doors on November 22, 2025, becoming the largest in the Middle East. The institution spans 13.8 billion years of history, featuring world-famous specimens like Stan the T-Rex and a blue whale skeleton, alongside local Arabian finds.

The Dubai World Cup 2026, celebrating its 30th anniversary on March 28 at Meydan Racecourse, promises nine world-class races with $30.5 million in prize money. Tickets start from Dh40, with early bird offers available. Beyond racing, the event features luxury dining, hospitality packages, fashion competitions, and live entertainment, making it a full-day cultural and sporting spectacle for all.

Lebanon has arrested Noah Zeaiter, the countrys most notorious drug trafficker, during a military operation in Baalbek. Wanted for decades, Zeaiter led a vast narcotics network specialising in Captagon and maintained links to Hezbollah and the Assad regime. His detention follows years of evasion, international sanctions, and armed confrontations, marking a significant blow to Lebanons drug trade and cross-border smuggling networks.

India has expanded its Visa-on-Arrival program for UAE nationals to three new airports Kochi, Calicut, and Ahmedabad, joining six existing hubs. Eligible travelers with a prior Indian e-Visa or paper visa can enter for tourism, business, conferences, or medical purposes for up to 60 days, with double entry allowed. The move aims to simplify travel and strengthen bilateral ties.

The UAE has been recognized as the world's third-largest humanitarian donor for 2025, contributing $1.46 billion in aid. This significant contribution, confirmed by UN OCHA, highlights the nation's commitment to timely and effective relief, focusing on both immediate needs and long-term sustainable development for crisis-affected populations globally.

Dense fog swept across Abu Dhabi and parts of Dubai on Friday, November 21, reducing visibility below 1,000 metres in some areas. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued red and yellow alerts for fog, warning motorists to drive cautiously. The morning also brought partly cloudy skies, light dust, and a slight drop in coastal temperatures.

Travel YouTuber Drew Binsky, who has visited all 197 countries, has revealed the cities he liked least after a decade on the road. Despite loving India and many challenging destinations, he named Conakry in Guinea as his worst experience, followed by NDjamena in Chad and Delhi in India, each for safety, hardship or overwhelming conditions that left him eager to leave.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Supreme Commander, has granted a Royal pardon to 247 prisoners, including citizens and expatriates, convicted in various cases. Issued on the occasion of National Day 2025, the pardon aims to support the prisoners families, promote social harmony, and provide inmates with an opportunity to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.

Dubai Watch Week 2025 opened at Burj Park, Dubai Mall, showcasing over 90 brands with rare timepieces, interactive installations, and educational experiences. Highlights included limited-edition releases from Mattar Bin Lahej, Louis Vuitton, and Norqain, a historic CEO roundtable, and Audemars Piguets 150th-anniversary House of Wonders. The event blends heritage, innovation, and immersive storytelling, redefining luxury watchmaking in the region.

International travelers landing at Zayed International Airport (AUH) now receive a complimentary visitor SIM card with 10GB of free data, a joint initiative by Abu Dhabi Airports and e&. This digital-first service ensures instant connectivity upon arrival, allowing seamless navigation and communication. The free 10GB is valid for 24 hours, after which visitors can opt for paid packages.

UAE's biggest sale, noon's Yellow Friday Mega-Sale, is live until November 30th, offering up to 90% off. Shoppers can snag electronics from Dhs199, home essentials, and even meals starting at just Dh1. With 15-minute delivery and flexible payment options, this event promises incredible savings for everyone.

The UAE has launched an international economic programme to attract 1,000 global trade companies, aiming to strengthen its position in global commerce. The initiative includes a digital gateway linking thousands of Emirati exporters to international markets, creating new opportunities and expanding exports. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid highlighted that the programme reinforces the UAEs role as a key hub in international trade.

Global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas will headline the BRIDGE Summit 2025 in Abu Dhabi from December 8-10. The Hollywood-Bollywood star will join other prominent figures like Idris Elba and Gary Vaynerchuk at the event, which aims to be the world's largest debut media event, fostering deals and partnerships across the global media and entertainment industries.

SalamAir, Omans low-cost carrier, has signed a long-term Flight Hour Services agreement with Airbus to strengthen maintenance efficiency, fleet reliability, and operational performance across its A320 family aircraft. The partnership provides component support, repair management, and predictive maintenance capabilities, aligning with SalamAirs growth plans and Oman Vision 2040 goals while preparing for upcoming fleet expansions.

Osama Al-Shafar, a prominent UAE sports administrator and former FNC member, died in a road accident in Kazakhstan on November 19, 2025. A driving force behind Emirati cycling, he served as President of the Asian Cycling Confederation and a UCI Vice-President. His sudden passing has prompted widespread condolences, leaving a significant leadership void.

Oman has launched Oman The State and The Human, an AI-powered digital platform marking the countrys 55th National Day. The initiative allows users worldwide to explore Omans history, send multilingual National Day greetings, and view global participation on a live map. Led by Hamood bin Mohammed al Azri, it reflects Omans heritage and commitment to digital innovation.

Oman Air celebrates Omans National Day with a Global Sale offering up to 20% off Business and Economy Class fares. Valid until 30 November 2025 for travel from 15 January to 31 March 2026, the offer covers over 40 international destinations. Economy fares start at OMR 29, Business at OMR 128. Terms apply; bookings via website or app.

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is launching a luxurious VVIP terminal and expanded facilities for private jets, developed with Falcon Executive Aviation. This significant upgrade, set to open in early 2027, emphasizes sustainability with solar power and SAF capabilities. The expansion aims to boost RAK's global tourism status, anticipating over 3 million passengers annually by 2028.

The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) has unveiled an official symbol for the Omani Rial, marking a major national milestone. The symbol standardizes the currencys representation across financial, commercial, and digital platforms, reflecting Omans rich heritage and economic maturity. It aligns with Oman Vision 2040, strengthening global recognition, investor confidence, and the Sultanates position as a growing financial hub.

American rock band The Calling will perform their first-ever Middle East concert in Abu Dhabi on February 14, 2026, at 321 Sports, Hudayriyat Island. This performance is a signature headliner for the inaugural AccessPass Music & Sports Festival, marking a significant addition to Abu Dhabi's live-events landscape. Pre-registration for tickets is now open.

The UAE completed its first-ever cross-border payment to China using digital currency, executed by Sheikh Mansour through the new Jisr platform. The two countries also linked their instant payment systems and launched the joint JaywanUnionPay prepaid card. These steps, supported by a new central bank MoU, strengthen financial cooperation and modernise bilateral payment infrastructure.