UAE to host six major international summits and events in February
The UAE is set to host six major international events throughout February, attracting thousands of leaders and experts. These gatherings span governance, tolerance, education, digital trade, healthcare innovation, and global sport, reinforcing the nation's position as a key hub for international dialogue and large-scale events.
Dubai's Al Salam Cycling Championship is underway with exciting desert races. Top cyclists are competing for a whopping prize money. The championship features events for both men and women. This tenth season highlights Dubai's growing cycling culture. The Al Marmoom Reserve is the venue for these challenging competitions. The event aims to promote cycling across the UAE.
UAE announces petrol and diesel prices for February 2026
Fuel prices in the UAE will be lower in February 2026. Motorists will pay less for Super 98, Special 95, and E-Plus 91 petrol. Diesel prices also see a reduction. These new rates take effect from February 1, 2026. The changes reflect global oil market movements. This offers marginal savings for drivers and commercial users.
UAE and Scotland strike major investment deal: Whats in it for both economies as Gulf meets Europe?
The UAE and Scotland have inked a landmark pact to boost investment and economic ties. Signed on January 30, 2026, the Memorandum of Understanding aims to foster capital, technology and expertise exchange. This strategic alliance will unlock new opportunities for businesses in both nations, focusing on sustainable growth and job creation, building on previous successful engagements.
Sharjah Police have launched a severe crackdown on drivers performing dangerous stunts during rainfall, impounding vehicles and penalising eight individuals. This action highlights the UAE's commitment to road safety, with hefty fines, black points and vehicle confiscation for reckless behaviour that endangers lives. Authorities urge public cooperation in reporting unsafe driving.
Qatar Airways launches QVerse Island, virtual Doha experience in Fortnite
Qatar Airways has launched QVerse Island in Fortnite, a virtual representation of Doha designed to inspire travel. Players explore iconic landmarks and complete missions, with opportunities to win real flights and rewards. This initiative leverages gaming to engage potential travelers early in their planning process.
Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has called on Muslims to sight the Ramadan crescent on February 17, 2026. This traditional practice determines the start of the holy month. Believers are asked to report sightings to local courts. This annual appeal highlights the importance of moon sighting in Islamic tradition and Saudi legal practice.
UAE to gift memorial monument to Kuwait to honour Brothers Forever bond
The United Arab Emirates will gift a memorial monument to Kuwait. It will be installed at Al Shaheed Park in Kuwait City. This gesture celebrates the strong bond between the two nations. The monument symbolizes shared history and destiny. Young Emirati designer Omar Al Gurg will create the landmark. Al Shaheed Park is a significant cultural space in Kuwait City.
Dubai Metro hours extended on February 1 for Dubai Marathon 2026
Dubai Metro will extend operating hours on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 5 am to 12 am to support the Dubai Marathon's 25th anniversary. This initiative by the RTA aims to ease congestion and facilitate travel for runners and spectators attending the event, which features a fast course and multiple race categories.
54 days of deals: Saudi Arabia launches massive nationwide Ramadan Sales Season
Get ready for early Ramadan shopping. The Ministry of Commerce is launching a 54-day sales season starting February 1, 2026. This initiative aims to help shoppers buy festive goods before the rush. Businesses can easily apply for discount permits online. Consumers can verify offers by scanning barcodes. Inspection teams will ensure all promotions are legitimate.
Qatar: Driving without a licence could lead to jail, heavy fines, Interior Ministry warns
Qatar's Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning regarding driving without a valid license, emphasizing it's a criminal offense with severe penalties. Motorists face potential imprisonment from one month to three years and fines ranging from QR10,000 to QR50,000. These strict measures aim to enhance road safety by ensuring only licensed individuals operate vehicles.
50:50 vision meets 2035 goals: First UAEKuwait Womens Forum Opens in Abu Dhabi
The inaugural UAEKuwaiti Womens Forum in Abu Dhabi emphasizes women's empowerment, sustainable development, and future leadership, reinforcing bilateral cooperation. This initiative, aligned with national visions from both countries, fosters dialogue and collaboration on critical issues, including technology, peace, and climate action, while an accompanying exhibition showcases women-led businesses and heritage.
Saudi Arabia has officially launched its National Privatization Strategy, a key component of Vision 2030, aiming to boost infrastructure and public services. This move signifies a shift from planning to execution, with ambitious targets for private sector investment and public-private partnership contracts by 2030. The strategy seeks to enhance efficiency and create thousands of specialized jobs.
UAE residents outsourcing their brains to AI: Are we losing our minds?
UAE residents are increasingly integrating AI chatbots into daily life, from shopping and work to complex decision-making. With adoption rates among the world's highest, generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are becoming everyday aides, enhancing productivity and personal planning. This shift signifies a growing reliance on AI for cognitive tasks, transforming how people learn, decide and interact.
Saudi Arabia tightens job rules, expats can no longer work in these four professions
Saudi Arabia is now reserving key leadership and commercial roles exclusively for its citizens. Starting January 29, 2026, expat workers cannot be hired or change professions to General Manager, Sales Representative, Marketing Specialist, or Procurement Manager. This move aims to boost local employment and align with Vision 2030 goals.
UAE launches Dubai+: New free streaming platform with 30,000 hours of content
Dubai Plus, a new streaming platform, has launched in the UAE. It offers free access to Emirati and Arab content for all ages. The platform aims to showcase local culture and talent. It features TV shows, films, and live sports. Dubai Plus complements global services by focusing on regional storytelling. This initiative strengthens Dubai's position as a content hub.
UAE banks introduce digital verification, phase out handwritten signatures
The UAE is phasing out traditional signatures and SMS OTPs for banking transactions, transitioning to a digital handshake via mobile apps. This move enhances security by replacing vulnerable SMS codes with in-app approvals, including biometrics, for a faster and more secure banking experience.
US hands Gulf the worlds most powerful AI chips: Clears exports to UAE and Saudi Arabia
America is now sending advanced computer chips to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. This move supports their big plans for artificial intelligence. These nations are becoming key players in global technology. This partnership strengthens US influence and helps Gulf countries diversify their economies beyond oil. It marks a significant shift in how technology is shared globally.
Win Dh30,000 for best video? Dubai Police offer cash prizes at UAE SWAT Challenge
Dubai Police are inviting UAE residents to capture the upcoming UAE SWAT Challenge through a video contest, offering up to Dh30,000 in cash prizes. This initiative encourages creative storytelling, highlighting teamwork and human values displayed by elite tactical teams from around the globe. The contest aims to foster community engagement and showcase police professionalism to a wider audience.
Toxic manager driving you crazy? What UAE employees can and cant do
In the UAE, simply deeming your manager incompetent won't stand up in labour court. The law protects employees from harassment, discrimination, and abuse, not just poor leadership. If a manager's actions create a hostile environment or violate your rights, documentation and formal complaints to HR or MoHRE are crucial steps. Understanding this distinction is key to addressing workplace issues effectively.
UAE unveils regions first biometric payment system using face and palm scans
The UAE has launched the Middle East's first biometric payment system, enabling transactions via facial recognition or palm scans. This initiative, a proof-of-concept by the Central Bank of the UAE, aims to enhance convenience and security, positioning the nation as a leader in financial innovation and a digital-first economy.
Bitcoin for car insurance? Dubai becomes first to accept crypto for insurance premium
Dubai's DIFC now allows a regulated insurer to accept crypto for policies, a first in the UAE. This move integrates digital assets directly into insurance payments, enabling Bitcoin to cover SUV, apartment, or health insurance. The development leverages blockchain's efficiency and programmable nature, bypassing traditional fees and offering 24/7 transactions, aligning with the UAE's digital economy goals.
Dubai gold breaks the records: Prices shatter Dh630 ceiling in historic monthly surge
Dubai's gold prices hit an unprecedented Dh632 per gram on January 28, 2026, a nearly 20% surge in less than a month. This historic climb, mirroring global trends driven by geopolitical tensions and central bank buying, has seen other precious metals also rise significantly. Analysts debate if the rally will continue, with some predicting further gains.
