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Qatar upgrades Hayya Visa: GCC residents now get 2-month, multiple-entry stay
Qatar has enhanced its Hayya GCC Resident Visa, allowing residents from Gulf nations to stay for up to two months with multiple entries. This upgrade, effective November 30, 2025, aims to boost tourism and streamline entry for major sports and cultural events, including the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup.
Kuwait opens first Geological Park: Here what makes it worth the visit
Kuwait is opening its first geological park. This new destination will highlight the country's rock formations and desert landscapes. It aims to boost education, research, and eco-tourism. The park will feature interactive exhibits and geological trails. This initiative supports Kuwait's vision for economic diversification and sustainable growth. It is set to open by the end of December 2025.
Revealed: Which countries would have the best chances of survival if World War III broke out?
Amidst rising global tensions, experts identify regions offering relative safety in a potential World War III. Geographical isolation, political neutrality, and agricultural self-sufficiency are key factors. Nations like New Zealand, parts of Australia, Iceland, and select South American and African countries are frequently cited as potentially more resilient to widespread conflict and its devastating aftermath.
UAE revamps lottery rules: Now you can play weekly and win up to Dh30 million
UAE Lottery has revamped its Lucky Day draw, shifting to weekly Saturday draws starting December 6th. The grand prize is now Dh30 million, with the second prize boosted to Dh5 million. This change aims to offer more frequent winning opportunities and sustained excitement for participants, concluding the era of the Dh100 million jackpot.
UAE announces rise in fuel prices for December 2025 - New petrol and diesel rates explained
UAE motorists will see a slight increase in fuel prices for December 2025, with all petrol and diesel grades adjusted upwards. This change reverses the November dip and reflects global oil market movements. The new rates, effective December 1, 2025, bring Super 98 back to Dhs2.70 per litre.
UAE Drivers License 2025: Which countries can skip the test and drive with their home license?
In 2025, the UAE has streamlined its driving license system, allowing visitors from 52 countries to drive with their home licenses. Residents can also exchange their foreign licenses for a UAE one without tests. This move simplifies mobility, supporting the countrys ambition to attract global talent and enhance its reputation as a top business and tourism destination.
Dubai telecom giant offers 54GB free data for UAE 54th National Day
Telecom giant du is showering UAE residents with a massive 54GB of free 5G data to celebrate the nation's 54th National Day. Post-paid users get it automatically for seven days, while prepaid Flexi Yearly subscribers enjoy a full year. This generous offer, starting December 1, 2025, ensures everyone stays connected during the festivities.
Hayya platform in Qatar explained: What it is and the types of visas it offers
The Hayya Platform is Qatars official e-visa system, streamlining entry, event access, and travel documentation in one interface. It offers multiple visa types, including tourist, GCC resident, ETA, companion, and visa-free for U.S. citizens. By simplifying immigration, linking visas to event tickets, and improving visitor flow, Hayya enhances tourism, supports major events, and strengthens Qatars global connectivity.
Qatar updates Hayya GCC Visa allowing 2 month stay ahead of 2025 FIFA Arab Cup
Starting November 30, 2025, GCC residents can stay in Qatar for up to two months under the updated Hayya A2 visa. The visa allows multiple entries, enabling visitors to travel freely during their stay, attend events, and explore Qatars cultural and entertainment offerings. The updates aim to simplify visits, enhance regional connectivity, and boost tourism during a busy event season.
Big relief for 1,435 emiratis as UAE clears over AED 475 million in debt
The UAE has waived over AED 475 million in debts for 1,435 Emirati citizens through the Defaulted Debts Settlement Fund, in collaboration with 19 banks. Targeting low-income earners, retirees, senior citizens, medical cases, and the deceased, the initiative aims to ease financial pressures, restore stability, and support family wellbeing, reflecting the leaderships commitment to social development and citizen welfare.
How to enter the UAEs most exclusive Golden Visa circle through superyacht ownership
The UAEs Golden Visa has expanded beyond traditional investment routes to include superyacht owners and maritime professionals, reflecting the nations push to attract global wealth and specialised talent. With high financial thresholds, detailed eligibility rules, and distinct pathways in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the programme positions the UAE as a leading year-round hub for luxury yachting and long-term residency.
Abu Dhabi offers free parking and Darb tolls for UAE National Day
Abu Dhabi is offering free parking and Darb tolls for three days starting Sunday, November 30, to celebrate UAE National Day. The initiative aims to make travel and festivities across the capital easier for residents and visitors. Parking fees and tolls will resume on Wednesday, December 3, encouraging people to join national celebrations with convenience and ease.
Filipinos can travel to Oman visa free starting 2026
Starting in 2026, Filipino citizens will be able to visit Oman without a visa for stays up to two weeks. Announced by the Omani Embassy during National Day celebrations in Makati, the move aims to boost tourism and strengthen ties. Plans include expanding direct flights from Manila and Cebu, offering Filipinos easier access to Omans unique landscapes and cultural experiences.
How to qualify for a UAE Golden Visa without property or investment via the volunteering route
The UAEs Golden Visa program now includes humanitarian workers and volunteers, offering long-term residency of 5 to 10 years without sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate meaningful contributions in recognized fields and secure endorsements from registered organizations. This initiative reflects the UAEs commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts both locally and globally, providing stability and recognition to those dedicated to serving communities.
UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour: A look at his net worth and Manchester City empire
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister, is a billionaire royal with an estimated net worth of $30 billion. Owner of Manchester City and City Football Group, his empire spans sports, finance, real estate, and luxury assets. A key political figure, he oversees major investments, sovereign wealth funds, and strengthens UAEs global influence through business and diplomacy.
Dubai metro new rules for Eid Al Etihad: Timings, luggage rules and routes explained
Dubai's RTA announces extended Metro and Tram timings for the Eid Al Etihad holiday, November 29 to December 2, 2025. Motorists enjoy free public parking on December 1 and 2, excluding specific zones. Passengers are reminded of strict luggage rules for public transport to ensure smooth travel.
Explained: What are black points in UAE and how to check them
The UAEs Black Points System assigns penalties to drivers for traffic violations, with each offense adding points that remain on the license for a year. Reaching 24 points can lead to suspension, fines or retraining. Drivers can check their points through police websites, mobile apps, SMS alerts or at traffic service centres to stay aware and avoid penalties.
Emirates celebrates 54th UAE National Day with special inflight food and entertainment
Emirates brings the 54th UAE National Day to travelers with a unique inflight experience. Passengers can enjoy Emirati-inspired desserts, aromatic Arabic coffee, and festive cabin lighting. The award-winning ice entertainment system offers Arabic movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts. Dubai lounges also feature traditional dishes, creating a fully immersive cultural celebration for all passengers.
In a heartwarming gesture ahead of the 54th UAE National Day, Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman have freed over a thousand prisoners. Rulers Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi and Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi's pardons, including settling financial debts for some, offer a fresh start and family reunion, embodying the UAE's values of forgiveness and community welfare.
Sharjah police announce traffic point waiver and fine discounts for UAEs 54th National Day
Sharjah Police are offering drivers a traffic point waiver and fines discounts ahead of the UAEs 54th National Day. Violations before December 1, 2025, can have points cleared if dues are paid by January 10, 2026. Fines receive 35% discount if paid within 60 days, 25% within a year. The initiative promotes safer driving and compliance with traffic rules.
Riyadh Metro enters Guinness World Records as the world longest driverless network at 176km
Riyadh Metro has officially been certified by Guinness World Records as the world's longest fully driverless train network, spanning 176 km across six lines and 85 stations. This significant achievement underscores the Kingdom's commitment to advanced urban mobility and positions Riyadh as a global leader in high-tech transportation infrastructure.
UAE National Day 2025: Dubai offers free public parking and extended metro hours on holidays
For UAE National Day 2025, Dubais RTA offers free public parking (excluding multi-storey lots) from November 30 to December 2, along with extended metro and tram hours. Public buses and marine transport schedules may vary, and select Smart Customer Happiness Centres remain open 24/7. These measures aim to ensure smooth travel and convenient access to services during the Eid Al Etihad holiday.
