Hamad International Airport (HIA) has updated arrival procedures for the end of summer, focusing on efficient transportation and baggage handling. Passengers are encouraged to use parking facilities for pick-ups and utilize various transport options like Uber, Doha Metro, and taxis. E-gates are available for eligible travelers, ensuring a smoother immigration process.

Lord Howe Island Airport in Australia has been named the world's most beautiful airport landing. A recent study using eye-tracking technology revealed that its unique ocean-to-beach runway captured travellers' attention more than any other airport.

For centuries, the Bermuda Triangle has been associated with mysterious disappearances, fueling supernatural theories. However, oceanographer Dr. Simon Boxall proposes a scientific explanation: gigantic rogue waves. These massive waves, capable of overwhelming ships and creating atmospheric disturbances, could account for many unexplained incidents, offering a rational perspective on the Triangle's grim reputation.

Saudi Arabia is the guest of honor at the 62nd Damascus International Fair, held from August 27 to September 5 in Syria. With over 80 companies and key government entities participating, the Kingdom aims to strengthen trade, sign strategic agreements, and promote regional economic cooperationaligning with Saudi Vision 2030s goal of diversifying the economy and boosting non-oil exports.

Dubai's education sector is expanding. Twenty-five new institutions will open by 2026. These include early childhood centers, schools, and international universities. Over 11,700 new school seats will be available. More than 2,400 early childhood enrollments are expected. The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad and the American University of Beirut are among the new universities.

Saudi Arabia has launched early preparations for the 1447 AH (2026) Hajj, following the successful 2025 season. A high-level meeting in Makkah, led by Prince Saud bin Mishaal and attended by over 40 agencies, focused on improving services, using technology, and enhancing coordination to ensure a smooth, secure, and spiritually fulfilling experience for pilgrims.

Massive sunspots were spotted over Arar this week, including spots 4195, 4197, and 4199, some among the largest seen in 2025. Astronomers explained these are cooler, magnetically active regions on the Sun, often linked to solar flares and geomagnetic storms. Experts stressed their study is crucial, warning of possible communication and satellite disruptions, while encouraging public observation.

Saudi Arabia has implemented a white land tax system in Riyadh, dividing the city into four zones with tax rates from 2.5% to 10% based on assessed land value. This initiative aims to stimulate development, discourage land speculation, and promote balanced urban growth in line with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans vision.

Heavy rainfall was recorded across six Saudi regions in the past 24 hours, with Jazan experiencing the highest downpour at 35 mm in Sanbah, Abu Arish Governorate. Other regions including Al-Baha, Makkah, Aseer, Najran, and Madinah also saw varying rainfall amounts, recorded by 51 monitoring stations, highlighting widespread but uneven precipitation across the Kingdom.

Sheikha Mahra, a Dubai princess known for her entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropy, divorced Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum in July 2024 and launched a perfume brand, with her first fragrance named Divorce. In June 2025, she got engaged to rapper French Montana, confirmed after sightings at events in Dubai, Paris, and Morocco. She continues to be a prominent figure in Dubai.

Saudi Arabia has introduced Tourism and Hospitality as a core subject for third-grade secondary students, alongside new electives like Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Fashion, and First Aid. Part of Vision 2030 reforms, the curriculum emphasizes practical skills, innovation, and sustainability. Developed with key ministries, the changes aim to modernize education, support economic diversification, and foster real-world readiness in students.

Saudi Arabia and Syria held their first joint investment forum in Riyadh, marking a major step in renewing economic ties. The event saw 450 participants and resulted in $24 billion worth of investment agreements across 12 sectors. Officials highlighted growing trade, rising bilateral investments, and plans to support Syrias reconstruction through long-term, structured economic cooperation.

Oman Air unveils a fantastic offer for travellers. A three-day sale features flights across the Gulf Cooperation Council. Fares begin at just 29 Omani Rial. Destinations include Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh. The sale runs from August 26 to 28, 2025. Travel is valid from September 27 to November 30, 2025. This promotion excludes codeshare flights. Economy Class tickets are available.

As Umrah 2025 sees a surge in pilgrim arrivals, Saudi Arabia is enhancing services across Madinah and Makkah. Authorities have improved mosque access through better gate and bridge systems and launched live Friday sermon translations in 15 languages. These measures aim to ensure a smoother, more inclusive experience for millions of worshippers from around the world.

Saudi Arabia is taking steps to improve food safety. New rules require central kitchens to hire food safety experts. Kitchens must install cameras and electronic payment systems. They also need better facilities for workers. The goal is to make the food industry safer and attract more investment. These changes will help ensure high standards and consumer confidence in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia is actively seeking skilled foreign professionals to contribute to its Vision 2030 economic transformation. The Skilled Worker Visa facilitates this, offering opportunities in healthcare, IT, engineering, and more. Eligibility requires a job offer, relevant qualifications, and a clean record. The application process involves employer sponsorship, medical exams, and embassy submission.

On August 28, 2025, the UAE will celebrate the 10th Emirati Womens Day, marking 50 years of the General Womens Union. The occasion honors Emirati womens leadership, entrepreneurship, education, and global initiatives. Backed by strong policies and visionary leadership, Emirati women continue to drive national development, gender equality, and international empowerment efforts, embodying the nations vision for inclusive growth.

Dubais RTA has launched Tadreeb, an AI-powered digital platform that connects all driving institutes in the emirate. It automates training, assessments, and performance tracking for over 250,000 trainees annually. With full digitisation, real-time monitoring, and global recognition, Tadreeb enhances safety, cuts costs, and streamlines the licensing process, setting a new standard in driver education.

Oman will require all food delivery drivers and supervisors to hold professional licenses starting September 1, 2025, to standardize operations and improve service quality. Applications must be submitted electronically, with fees starting at 20 Omani rials for job seekers. Strict penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation, will be enforced for non-compliance.

Under Decree No. (36) of 2025, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has renamed the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity and Humanitarian Establishment to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment. The decree also outlines updated legal and regulatory oversight, reaffirming the foundations broad mandate in health, education, social welfare, disaster relief, and international humanitarian work.

Dubai Municipality has warned several engineering consultancy offices for inflating structural designs of citizens' villas, violating the Dubai Building Code and increasing construction costs without justification. The move aims to enforce compliance, reduce unnecessary expenses, and protect property owners. It reflects the Municipality's broader efforts to promote sustainable urban development and uphold safety, efficiency, and ethical engineering practices.

Sharjah Islamic Bank (SIB) has launched the 2025 batch of its flagship Ruwaad programme to train high-potential Emiratis for leadership roles in the banking sector. The initiative offers specialised training, job rotations, mentorship, and community engagement, supporting national talent development and aligning with the UAEs vision of building a skilled, future-ready financial workforce.

Etihad Airways has launched a Destination Sale for UAE and GCC travelers, offering up to 30% off flights to six new and popular destinations in Asia and Africa. This limited-time sale, ending August 28, 2025, provides significant savings on travel between September 1 and December 31, 2025, in both Economy and Business class.

The UAEs National Media Office has referred social media users to the Federal Public Prosecution for violating media laws. Under strict new regulations effective since mid-2025, online defamation, misinformation, and offensive content carry heavy fines, imprisonment, and license suspensions. Authorities emphasize responsible digital conduct aligned with national values, with enforcement intensifying across all media platforms and user activities.

In the UAE, operating a vehicle without headlights from sunset to sunrise or during low visibility incurs penalties. A Dh500 fine and four black points are levied for this offense, while faulty headlights result in a Dh400 fine and six black points. High beams are restricted to unlit highways and must be dimmed for oncoming traffic to ensure road safety.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed arrived in Egypts New Alamein City on 25 August for a fraternal visit, welcomed by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Earlier that day, he concluded a two-day state visit to Angola, where he met President Joo Loureno. Both visits reflect the UAEs ongoing efforts to strengthen ties across Africa and the Arab world.

The UAE has confirmed Friday, September 5, 2025, as a public holiday for private sector employees to mark the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The date corresponds to the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal in the Islamic calendar. As it falls on a Friday, workers may enjoy a long weekend from Friday to Sunday.

Saudi Arabia has launched HUMAIN Chat, a conversational AI app powered by the ALLAM 34B Arabic language model. Developed entirely in the Kingdom by a diverse team, the app supports Arabic dialects, bilingual chat, and real-time search. It marks a major step in building sovereign, culturally aligned AI, with regional rollout and global expansion planned.

The UAE has declared a public holiday for government employees on Friday, September 5, 2025, to mark Prophet Muhammads (PBUH) birthday. Falling on a Friday, the holiday may result in a three-day weekend. The 12th of Rabi Al Awwal holds deep religious significance, commemorating the Prophets birth, legacy, and teachings of compassion, unity, and justice.

As Onam approaches, UAE-based airlines and travel agencies are offering one-way flights to Kerala starting at just Dh189 (4,270), sparking a major travel rush among expatriates. With festive packages under Dh1,000 (22,600) and rising tourism interest, these deals are boosting Keralas tourism economy while making it easier for families and travelers to celebrate the festival affordably.

Sheraa and Startup Middle East have signed an MoU to launch the India Startup Hub in Sharjah, aiming to connect Indian entrepreneurs with the UAEs innovation ecosystem. The partnership enables cross-border collaboration, market access, and startup support through key programs and events. It also strengthens Sheraas global reach and supports sectoral expertise from India, including Keralas diaspora network.

As over one million students returned to UAE schools today, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed marked the start of the 202526 academic year with a recorded message urging students to pursue learning with passion, uphold national values, and use AI responsibly. The year also sees the launch of an AI curriculum and key assessment reforms.

Indian buyers using international credit cards to pay for property in Dubai are under regulatory scrutiny. Experts warn that such payments violate RBI rules under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, as property purchases are capital account transactions and must go through the Liberalised Remittance Scheme. Violations may lead to penalties, legal action, and investigations by Indian authorities.

22-year-old Amanda DSilva, a Dubai-based Indian woman with Down syndrome, has been selected for the NDSS Times Square Video Presentation in New York on September 6. Chosen from over 2,600 entries, Amandas photo will appear alongside 500 others in a global campaign promoting inclusion. She works in hospitality and modeling, and hails from a MangaluruMumbai family.

On September 7, 2025, the UAE will witness a rare total lunar eclipse lasting 82 minutesone of the longest in recent years. The Blood Moon will turn deep red, visible across the country and livestreamed globally. Public viewing events, including one near the Burj Khalifa, will offer a spectacular celestial experience for astronomy enthusiasts and casual skywatchers alike.

Saudi Arabia is integrating AI into its national curriculum, marking a major shift in education and digital strategy. Through broad institutional collaboration and training aligned with Vision 2030, the Kingdom aims to prepare a generation capable of leading in an AI-driven world. This initiative goes beyond educationit's a national strategy to embed innovation for the countrys future.

Dubai Municipality has completed a AED9.5 million heritage redevelopment in Deira, introducing 1.8 km of tourist trails across historic markets. The project enhances visitor experiences, preserves cultural identity, and supports over 500 shops. Spanning key souqs and landmarks, it integrates traditional architecture with modern amenities, aligning with Dubais 2040 Urban Master Plan and tourism growth strategy.

Prophet Muhammads (PBUH) birthday falls on Friday, September 5, 2025, corresponding to the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal in the Islamic calendar. While the UAE has not officially announced the holiday, the dates alignment with the weekend raises the possibility of a three-day break for residents. The occasion holds deep religious significance across the Muslim world.

The UAE will begin Rabi Al Awwal on Monday, August 25, after the crescent moon was not sighted on Saturday. This marks a rare divergence from Saudi Arabia, which starts the month a day earlier. The Prophet Muhammads (PBUH) birthday will fall on September 5 in the UAE, possibly resulting in a three-day public holiday.

Oman is gearing up to launch a golden visa program. It aims to attract global investors. The program will also accelerate digital transformation in commerce. Alongside, the 'Al Majida Companies' initiative will support local firms. A digital system for commercial registrations will also be launched. These initiatives reflect Oman's efforts to modernize its economy and attract investment.

Abu Dhabi offers unlimited bus travel through weekly and monthly passes. These passes are valid within Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. A seven-day pass costs Dh35, and a 30-day pass costs Dh95. Seniors and people of determination get subsidized monthly passes. Hafilat Smart Cards are needed to use these passes.

Dubai Police has launched its 27th Smart Police Station at Dragon Mart, expanding its network of fully automated, 24/7 unmanned stations. Offering 45 services across criminal, traffic, certificates, and community needs in seven languages, these AI-driven stations boost digital transactions to 89.6%, cut energy use by 97%, save Dhs60 million, and significantly reduce carbon emissions.

SalamAir has launched a limited-time Breaking Fares campaign, offering one-way flights from Muscat to over 20 destinations starting at OMR 19.99. The offer is available for booking from August 2428, 2025, for travel between October 1 and November 30, 2025. Seats are limited, and bookings can be made via SalamAirs website or authorized agents.

The UAE Ministry of Education has refuted social media rumors about changes to public school hours, confirming that timings will remain consistent, including for kindergarten. Starting August 25, 2025, artificial intelligence will be introduced as a core subject from kindergarten through Grade 12. Additionally, a national standardized proficiency test will be implemented for Grades 4 to 11.

Kuwaiti women are gaining significant ground in property ownership through housing care, inheritance, and direct purchase. Recent legal reforms recognize women as joint owners from the start of housing allocation, granting immediate disposal rights, even post-divorce. While challenges persist for divorced women, these changes empower women's economic independence and family security.

Kuwait's Ministry of Health has reiterated that government hospitals and clinics are exclusively for registered patients, aiming to prevent misuse of resources. Simultaneously, the ministry is enhancing hotel services within hospitals, including laundry and cleaning, to improve patient comfort and safety. A specialized training course was conducted for hospital staff to elevate service quality and hygiene standards.

Saudi Arabia has arrested 22,222 individuals for violating residency, labor, and border security laws in a week-long crackdown. Over 12,900 have already been deported, with others awaiting repatriation. A majority of border crossers were Yemeni and Ethiopian nationals. Authorities are also targeting those who facilitate illegal residency, with penalties including hefty fines and imprisonment.