QatarEnergy announces lower fuel prices for January 2026
QatarEnergy has announced lower fuel prices for January 2026. Premium-grade petrol will cost QR 1.95 per litre, Super-grade petrol QR 2 per litre, and diesel QR 2 per litre. The reductions, part of the companys routine monthly review, aim to reflect market changes and ease fuel costs for consumers and businesses across the country.
UAE Bank end SMS OTPs for online transactions from Jan 6, switch to biometric authentication
UAE banks are phasing out SMS OTPs for online card payments starting January 6, 2026, due to security risks like SIM-swapping and phishing. This shift mandates in-app authentication via push notifications and biometric verification, enhancing transaction security and user experience. Residents must update their bank apps and enable notifications to avoid payment disruptions.
UAE Civil Law 2026 update: Expat assets with no heirs now taken over by charities
Recent UAE legislative updates clarify asset distribution for expats. Heirless assets will now be designated for charitable endowments, while non-Muslims will follow a 50/50 spouse/children split, with gender equality in inheritance. A new 15-year-old rule allows minors to seek judicial permission to manage assets, fostering youth entrepreneurship.
The Qatar Judiciary Council is hosting a major online auction featuring vehicles, real estate, heavy machinery, and distinctive license plates. Conducted through the Court Mzadat app, the auction offers a transparent, regulated platform for individuals and businesses to participate. Full details, schedules, and registration are available via the app and official council channels.
UAE Prayer Timings 2026: New year changes to FajrIsha schedule, Friday prayers and traffic advisory
The UAE has unified Friday prayer timings to 12:45 PM across all emirates starting January 2, 2026, simplifying schedules for families and workers. This change, part of the 'Year of the Family' initiative, aims to synchronize community events. Expect increased traffic due to school dismissals and concentrated mosque-goers, with public transport frequencies boosted. Weather remains fair with mild temperatures.
UAE landmark Civil Law Reform 2026: Legal age cut to 18 What it means for you
The UAE has enacted a comprehensive Civil Transactions Law update, lowering the age of legal majority to 18 Gregorian years and empowering young entrepreneurs. This modernized framework clarifies contracts, consumer rights, and company structures, fostering legal certainty and reinforcing the UAE's global business standing. It emphasizes good faith and disclosure, aiming for predictable and fair legal interactions.
Oman: Ministry of Health makes premarital medical exams mandatory for couples
Oman has made premarital medical examinations mandatory for all couples, effective January 1, 2026, the Ministry of Health announced. The screening tests for hereditary blood disorders like sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, as well as infectious diseases including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV/AIDS. Couples must complete the exams and receive a certificate before finalizing their marriage contract.
UAE: Ras Al Khaimah sets Guinness World Record with 15 minute aerial phoenix drone show
Ras Al Khaimah welcomed 2026 with a record-breaking 15-minute drone and fireworks show, setting a Guinness World Record for the largest aerial phoenix. 2,300 drones, including 1,000 pyro drones, lit up the sky, while fireworks spanned six kilometers along the coastline. Thousands of residents and visitors enjoyed live performances, celebrating the emirates spirit, hospitality, and optimism for the year ahead.
Meet the first babies of 2026: UAE welcomes the new year with tiny stars born at midnight
New Year's Day 2026 brought a wave of joy as babies were born across the UAE, with Saeed in Abu Dhabi being the first. These newborns, including Hamdan and others in Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, mark the start of a new year and join Generation Alpha, a generation shaped by technology and digital advancements.
UAE announces petrol and diesel prices for January 2026
The UAE fuel price committee has announced petrol and diesel prices for January 2026. Super 98 petrol will cost Dh2.53 per litre, Special 95 Dh2.42, E-Plus 91 Dh2.34, and diesel Dh2.55. The rates, effective from 1 January, mark a decrease from December, continuing the monthly adjustments introduced after the country deregulated fuel prices in 2015.
How Donald Trump launched a new push to amass US government data in 2025
Proponents say compiling personal information in a single database is more efficient. But critics fear risks to privacy. How Donald Trump launched a new push to amass US government data in 2025
UAE: Dubai Civil Defence unveils new logo and uniform
Dubai Civil Defence has unveiled a modern institutional identity, featuring a redesigned logo, updated uniforms, and the slogan Safeguarding Lives and Property. The refreshed look reflects the Commands mission, heritage, and future ambitions, combining symbolism, national pride, and contemporary design. The update strengthens visual communication, reinforces institutional presence, and aligns with Dubais vision to be the safest and most secure city.
Starting January 1, 2026, Saudi Arabia will implement a four-tier excise tax on sweetened beverages based on sugar content, replacing the previous flat 50 percent levy. Drinks with higher sugar levels will face steeper taxes, while low or zero-sugar options will cost less. The move aims to reduce sugar consumption, encourage healthier choices, and align with GCC public health initiatives.
UAE to raise minimum private sector wage for emiratis to Dh6,000 from 1 January 2026
From 1 January 2026, the UAE will enforce a Dh6,000 minimum wage for Emirati employees in the private sector. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation will tie compliance to work permit processing, notifying employers through its smart app. Salaries below the threshold by 30 June 2026 will trigger enforcement measures, including exclusion from Emiratisation quotas and restrictions on new permits.
Kuwait limits expats stay abroad to six months under new residency rules
Kuwait has introduced new residency rules capping expat stays abroad at six months, aiming to manage its population. However, long-term visas for investors and property owners offer extended stays. Stricter rules apply to domestic workers, with new fees and penalties for overstays. The nation is also digitizing immigration services and cracking down on visa trading.
Dubai New Year 2026: Fireworks, road closures, and public safety guidelines for downtown
Dubai is gearing up for a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration, headlined by a record-breaking show at the Burj Khalifa. With multiple viewing locations and extensive road closures, the RTA advises early arrival and recommends using the Dubai Metro and shuttle buses for access to the main events.
UAE overhauls higher education governance: Key changes that affect students
The UAE has introduced a new federal decree law to unify and elevate its higher education and scientific research sectors. This legislation mandates rigorous licensing, accreditation, and governance standards for all institutions, ensuring academic quality and aligning programs with labor market needs and national development goals. The law also strengthens scientific research and introduces penalties for non-compliance.
Want remote jobs in Dubai in 2026? Here are 6 legit platforms offering AED 20,000+ salaries
Discover how to secure high-paying remote jobs in Dubai, with salaries exceeding AED 20,000 monthly, without needing to be physically present daily. This guide highlights six legitimate platforms actively welcoming global talent to tap into the UAE's thriving job market. Explore opportunities for long-term settlement and international exposure.
Bahrain Golden Visa 2025: A lower-cost, tax-free alternative to UAE and Saudi residency
Bahrains Golden Residency reflects the Gulfs wider shift toward long-term settlement, offering a 10-year renewable visa focused on affordability, work freedom and livability. Positioned alongside UAE and Saudi reforms, Bahrain stands out for lower entry thresholds, tax-free income, strong expat integration and a business-friendly environment, making it a practical option for investors, professionals, families and retirees seeking stable Gulf residence.
Dubai rents set to rise up to 6% in 2026, where to search for affordable homes
Dubai's property market is entering a mature phase with rents expected to rise 6% in 2026 due to population growth. While prime areas like Marina will see steeper increases, expats can find value in emerging hubs like Dubai South and JVC. Savvy renters should leverage RERA's new AI-powered index for fair negotiations.
The UAE's GCAA is hosting a major aviation career fair in Dubai on January 21-22, 2026, connecting job seekers with airlines, airports, and aerospace firms. This event offers direct access to recruiters for roles in cabin crew, pilots, engineering, and more, streamlining the job search process for aspiring aviation professionals.
Saudi Arabia suspends Umrah company after pilgrims arrive without promised accommodation
Saudi Arabia has suspended an Umrah company and its overseas agent after pilgrims arrived without the accommodation promised in approved contracts. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said the violation breached regulations governing services at the Two Holy Mosques. The move reflects tighter enforcement as Umrah numbers surge and visa approvals become increasingly tied to verified bookings through official platforms.
Cristiano Ronaldo named Best Middle East Player at Globe Soccer Awards 2025 in Dubai
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40, was named Best Middle East Player for the third consecutive year at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai. His move to Al-Nassr has significantly boosted the Saudi Pro League's global profile, with the Portuguese icon scoring over 100 goals and inspiring a Ronaldo Effect in the region.
