Middle East News
UAE: Dubai police fine 8,000+ delivery riders for riding in fast lanes
Dubai Police have fined over 8,000 delivery riders since enforcing a ban on fast-lane riding on 1st November. Riders must avoid leftmost lanes on multi-lane roads to reduce accident risks. Penalties range from AED 500 fines to license suspension. The initiative, part of a five-year traffic safety plan, emphasizes speed limits, protective gear, defensive driving, and awareness campaigns to safeguard riders.
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.
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.
UAE launches region first digital marketplace app for buying and trading trademarks
The UAE's Ministry of Economy & Tourism launched TM Market Place, the region's first digital platform for trading registered trademarks. This initiative aims to enhance the liquidity of brand assets, encourage trademark registrations, and attract global businesses by simplifying and securing trademark transactions.
Qatar Education Ministry unveil new 2025-2026 exam calendar and flexible working hours
Qatar's education ministry is streamlining end-of-semester exams for 2025-2026. Students can depart post-exam to curb crowding, while staff gain two hours of flexible time. New academic calendar shifts exams away from Ramadan and National Day, introducing a Test Day, Rest Day for high schoolers. These changes prioritize student well-being and operational efficiency.
Saudi Arabia introduces new corporate dress code: What workers must wear now
Saudi Arabia is formalizing workplace attire with a new draft code. Saudi men must wear national dress, while non-Saudi men need a formal suit. Women are required to dress modestly, avoiding tight or transparent clothing. Employers must enforce these rules, facing penalties for non-compliance, aiming for a unified professional image nationwide.
Emirates offers a Thanksgiving menu at 35,000 feet with turkey trimmings and NBA action onboard
Emirates is enhancing the Thanksgiving experience for international travelers with special festive menus served from November 24 to 30 on all flights to and from its 12 US gateways. The airline is also offering holiday dining in select Emirates Lounges starting November 23, ensuring a comprehensive gourmet celebration for passengers.
Oman National Day 2025: A new book Oman Odyssey showcases the nations heritage on the world stage
In celebration of Oman National Day 2025, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, lunched the book Oman Odyssey by Assouline. The publication offers an immersive journey through Omans history, culture, and landscapes, combining vivid storytelling and photography. The launch at Maison Assouline in London highlights Omans heritage on a global stage.
Uber launches fully driverless robotaxis in Abu Dhabi, marking first in the Middle East
Uber and WeRide have launched the Middle Easts first fully driverless robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi, initially operating on Yas Island. Passengers can book rides via UberX, Uber Comfort, or the new Autonomous category. The Level 4 autonomous vehicles operate without a human driver, offering on-board support, safety protocols, and plans to expand across Abu Dhabi by the end of 2025
Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Alsaud: A look at his lifestyle and net worth in 2025
Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Alsaud remains one of Saudi Arabias most prominent investors, known for his vast business empire, high-profile global stakes, and longstanding philanthropic work. His 2025 profile highlights his extensive real estate holdings, media interests, luxury assets, and continued influence across international markets, alongside a lifestyle shaped by wealth, travel, and major charitable commitments.
How to watch Burj Khalifa New Year Eve fireworks: Your epic guide to front-row seats and prices
Dubai's New Year's Eve celebration, centered around the Burj Khalifa, is an eight-day extravaganza. Options range from free public viewing areas requiring an early arrival to ticketed events at Burj Park and ultra-luxury dining experiences with minimum spends reaching Dh12,000 per person.
Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed has issued a new law placing Dubai Police in full charge of managing lost and abandoned property. The law sets strict reporting deadlines, defines finder and owner responsibilities, and introduces penalties reaching AED 200,000 for violations. It also outlines procedures for reclaiming property, rewards for finders, and replaces the previous 2015 legislation
Saudi Arabia to begin charging higher tax on sugary drinks under new 2026 policy
Saudi Arabia is revolutionizing its beverage tax from January 1, 2026, shifting from a flat rate to a tiered system based on sugar content. This move incentivizes manufacturers to reduce sugar, promoting public health while fostering industry innovation. The new structure rewards sugar-free and low-sugar options, with higher taxes on sweeter drinks.
UAE Lottery offers final chance to win Dh100 million as Lucky Day draw prepares for revamp
The UAE Lottery is offering its Dh100 million grand prize for the final time this Saturday, November 29, before revamping its flagship Lucky Day draw. Weeks after Anilkumar Bolla became the first winner, players have one last chance to win. Tickets cost Dh50, with prizes ranging from Dh100 to Dh100 million, and the game follows a calendar-style number format.
Qatari citizens can now travel to Canada visa free using eTA, valid for 5 years
Qatari citizens can now travel to Canada without a visa, using the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system. Effective from 25 November 2025, the eTA allows multiple entries for up to six months per visit and is valid for five years or until the passport expires. The move follows close coordination between Qatar and Canada, streamlining travel and strengthening bilateral ties
What the UAESaudi 400kV power link means and how a $205M upgrade could cut your power costs?
A significant $205 million investment is powering a massive electrical expansion between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, boosting power capacity by 1,100 megawatts. This project enhances regional energy security, enables cheaper cross-border power trading, and promises more reliable and affordable electricity for citizens. This is the first phase of a broader Gulf-wide network integration.
Kuwait announces visa fee hike; new fee structure explained
Kuwait has enacted significant changes to its residency and visa regulations, effective December 23. The overhaul introduces higher fees and stricter sponsorship criteria to combat visa misuse and regulate the labor market. New pathways for long-term residency are also established for investors and specific resident groups.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Net worth and lavish lifestyle
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with an estimated net worth of $525 billion, wields immense political and economic power. Known for lavish purchases like a $500 million yacht and da Vincis Salvator Mundi, he blends personal wealth with state influence. His reforms, luxury lifestyle, and control over the Public Investment Fund highlight his global impact and controversial prominence.
UAE unveils United theme for 54th Eid Al Etihad celebration with nationwide and online screenings
The UAE has unveiled the United theme for its 54th Eid Al Etihad celebration, inviting all residents to join nationwide and online screenings. Taking place across all seven emirates, the festivities aim to foster connection, pride, and belonging among the countrys 200 plus nationalities. Events include public broadcasts, community activities, and interactive guides for families, ensuring everyone can participate.
Kuwaiti authorities to revoke citizenship of prominent islamic Preacher
Kuwaiti authorities are set to revoke the citizenship of a prominent Islamic preacher, known for his media presence and cultural engagements, as part of efforts to safeguard the national identity system. The decision follows uniform legal standards applied to all similar cases. Formal procedures are underway, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks, while the preachers identity and family details remain undisclosed.
Akasa Air cancels India-Gulf flights amid volcanic ash disruption
Akasa Air cancelled all flights to Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi on 2425 November 2025 due to a volcanic ash plume from Ethiopias Hauli Gubbi eruption, which reached 45,000 feet and affected key India-Gulf flight paths. IndiGo also suspended or diverted Gulf flights. Airlines closely monitor conditions, prioritising passenger safety, offering refunds or rebooking, and coordinating with aviation authorities to resume operations safely.

