Oman announces 2025 National Day fireworks schedule across major cities
Oman is set to celebrate its 2025 National Day with dazzling fireworks across key cities. Shows will light up Muscats Khoud Dam and Salalahs Ateen Plain on November 20, and Khasab in Musandam on November 23, all starting at 8 PM. Residents and visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the vibrant celebrations and festive atmosphere.
Bahrains Ministry of Industry and Commerce has launched a new National Incentive Initiative aimed at supporting businesses during the festive season. The initiative offers fee exemptions for promotional campaigns and extends sales periods until the end of 2025. Designed to stimulate consumer spending and bolster local markets, it encourages shop participation and fosters economic activity across the Kingdom.
The UAE unveiled the Badr-250 (B-250) light attack aircraft, fully designed and manufactured by Emirati talent, at Dubai Airshow 2025. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68 engine, it features advanced avionics, multi-role combat and training capabilities, seven external stores, and rapid rearming. The launch marks a historic milestone in the UAEs aviation and defence industry.
Central Bank of Oman approves Maal card fees, cutting merchant costs by up to 50%
Omans Central Bank has approved the Maal consumer debit and prepaid card fee structure, offering zero issuance and annual fees for users. Merchant Service Fees are capped, cutting costs by up to 50%. The card, launched on November 20, supports secure, low-cost digital payments across ATMs, POS, and e-commerce, advancing financial inclusion and Oman Vision 2040s digital economy goals.
South Korea President arrives in Abu Dhabi: Key takeaways from the visit
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's state visit to Abu Dhabi aims to deepen economic, technology, and space cooperation. Discussions focused on trade, investment, energy, defense partnerships, and joint high-tech projects, building on a Special Strategic Partnership and a $30 billion UAE investment pledge.
UAE introduces needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine; quick and painless protection for ages 2 to 49
The UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention has introduced the nation's first needle-free influenza vaccine delivered as a nasal spray. This pain-free option is now available for healthy residents aged 2 to 49, offering a convenient alternative to traditional flu shots and expanding immunisation accessibility.
Saudi Arabia is no longer offering huge salary bumps to expats
Saudi Arabia is significantly reducing expat salary premiums, moving towards local market rates. This shift, driven by Vision 2030's economic rationalization and project delays, sees leaner, performance-linked packages. Stricter budgets and a growing Saudi workforce are reshaping the Kingdom's hiring landscape, making compensation more measured and competitive.
Royal Navy of Oman to showcase 45 vessel fleet with GCC Navies at Qurum Beach on November 21
The Royal Navy of Oman will showcase a 45-vessel fleet at Qurum Beach, Muscat, on November 21, 2025, in a grand maritime display. The event will feature ships from Oman, the Royal Oman Police Coast Guard, His Majestys Yachts, and GCC navies, highlighting regional naval cooperation, operational readiness, and maritime security. The public can view the spectacle from 4 PM to 10 PM.
UAE President appoints four new Assistant Governors at Central Bank
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has appointed four new Assistant Governors at the Central Bank of the UAE. Ahmed Al Qamzi, Ibraheem Al Hashemi, Fatma Al Jabri, and Saif Al Dhaheri bring decades of experience in banking supervision, financial crime prevention, and institutional management, strengthening the banks leadership and enhancing regulatory oversight, market conduct, and consumer protection.
UAE Central Bank new rules for Personal Loan: Now you can apply for a loan without a salary slip
The UAE Central Bank has removed the minimum salary requirement for personal loans. Banks can now set their own eligibility criteria. This change opens up access to regulated loans for low-income earners, students, and blue-collar workers. Repayments are secured through the Wage Protection System. Loan limits and repayment rules still apply to ensure responsible lending.
UAE announces National Day holiday for public and private sector employees
The UAE has announced paid holidays for public and private sector employees on December 1 and 2 in celebration of National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. Residents can enjoy a long weekend when combined with the Saturday-Sunday weekend. The celebrations will include fireworks, concerts, cultural events, parades, and family entertainment, reflecting the nations unity and achievements since 1971.
Saudi Arabia sets new labour penalties up to SR250,000 in updated violations schedule
Saudi Arabias Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has issued an updated schedule of labour violations and penalties following a public consultation. Fines now range from SR500 to SR250,000, covering unlicensed hiring, illegal recruitment, workplace misconduct, environmental breaches, and violations of maternity leave and childcare requirements, reinforcing compliance and protections for workers, particularly women.
UAE: How the 'Ghaith 6' exhibition supports 6,000 low-income families in Sharjah
Sharjah's Ghaith 6 charitable exhibition at Expo Al Dhaid offers low-income families brand-new essentials at symbolic prices and free medical screenings. Launched by the Sharjah Charity Association, the event supports thousands of families with dignity, access to goods, and practical health services, fostering long-term community well-being.
Fake news alert: Saudi football player Fahad Al-Muwallad is not dead
False death rumors about former Saudi football star Fahad Al-Muwallad have circulated on social media, but his family has confirmed he is alive and in a year-long coma following a September 2024 fall from his Dubai apartment. Authorities are investigating the incident, and his family is appealing for prayers and respect during his prolonged recovery.
Saudi Arabia's laws still prohibit unmarried men and women from being alone together privately, a practice known as khulwa. While public gender mixing is now more relaxed, private cohabitation remains illegal and can lead to investigation, detention, and charges, especially if drugs or explicit content are found. Enforcement has shifted away from public policing, but the risk for residents persists.
Saudi Arabia: Six flags Qiddiya city to open in Riyadh on December 31; all you need to know
Six Flags Qiddiya City will debut on December 31, 2025, marking the first Six Flags park outside North America and a significant step in Saudi Arabia's tourism expansion. The park boasts five world-record-breaking rides, including Falcons Flight, and offers six themed lands, catering to both thrill-seekers and families.
Qatars best view yet: The fastest annual meteor shower arrives Nov 17
Prepare for a celestial spectacle as the Leonid meteor shower peaks on November 16-17, 2025. Earth will pass through the dusty trail of Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, offering up to 40 dazzling meteors per hour. With moon-free skies, this is an ideal opportunity to witness nature's fireworks. Best viewing is after midnight, looking away from the constellation Leo.
Oman launches emergency passport renewal service at Muscat International Airport
Omani citizens can now access an emergency passport renewal service at Muscat International Airport for urgent travel situations. The facility is available only for passports with less than six months validity and requires a confirmed flight ticket. Applicants must provide original documents verifying the emergency, such as medical reports or official memos. Standard renewal procedures at police centres remain unchanged.
Oman Air updates safety rules for lithium batteries, power banks, smart bags, and e-cigarettes
Oman Air has updated safety rules for lithium batteries, power banks, smart bags, and e-cigarettes to ensure passenger safety. Power banks and e-cigarettes must stay in hand luggage, smart bag batteries may need removal, and lithium battery-powered devices like hoverboards are banned. Devices can be charged under supervision, but loose batteries and vapes cannot be used or charged onboard.
Oman airports becomes world's first to roll out Wi-Fi 7 in partnership with Huawei
Oman Airports has become the first airport in the world to deploy Wi-Fi 7, in partnership with Huawei. The new system offers faster, more secure, and reliable connectivity for passengers, enhancing the travel experience. The upgrade aligns with Omans Vision 2040, modernizing airport operations and showcasing the nations commitment to advanced technology and innovation in aviation.
Dubai is set to launch the world's first comprehensive urban aerial taxi network in 2026, with four key vertiport locations identified: DXB, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. Successful crewed eVTOL test flights have been completed, paving the way for electric air taxis to offer rapid, sustainable travel, significantly reducing commute times across the city.
Qatar conducts successful trial of first autonomous eVTOL urban flight
Qatar has successfully trialed its first autonomous eVTOL air taxi, marking a milestone in smart urban mobility. Conducted between the Old Doha Port and Katara Cultural Village, the AI-powered flight operated without human intervention. The Ministry of Transport plans phased development, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure upgrades to integrate safe, efficient, and eco-friendly air transport into Qatars future mobility network.
Bahrain: Muharraq Nights Festival returns to the pearling path this December
The fourth Muharraq Nights Festival runs from 130 December 2025, transforming Muharraqs historic streets along the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path into a vibrant cultural hub. Visitors can enjoy live music, art exhibitions, crafts, childrens activities, food, and guided heritage tours. With extended weekend hours, the festival blends Bahrains heritage with contemporary creativity, offering immersive family-friendly experiences celebrating tradition and community.
Khalid Bin Sultan City in Sharjah has recorded a major milestone, selling 400 homes during its Phase 1 launch. Developed by BEEAH as the UAEs first net-zero-ready residential project, the city forms part of a 1,500-home masterplan designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. The strong demand reflects rising interest in climate-smart, design-led urban communities across the emirates.
Dubai traffic alert: Accident on Sheikh Zayed road causes morning delays, Dubai Police urge caution
Dubai experienced severe traffic jams on Sunday. A major accident on Sheikh Zayed Road combined with road closures for the T100 Triathlon World Championship caused widespread disruption. Authorities advised drivers to use alternative routes and allow extra travel time. The morning peak hour Salik toll also increased, adding to the travel cost for commuters navigating the congested city.
Dubai unveils monumental artwork celebrating UAEs founding fathers and national progress
Dubais Brand Dubai, in partnership with DIFC, unveiled a 50-metre artwork on The Gate Building, honoring the UAEs Founding Fathers, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, as part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign. Designed by Emirati artist Ahmed BaFadhl, it blends portraits, space exploration symbols, and national motifs, celebrating the nations heritage, achievements, and ongoing journey of progress across generations.
Dubai unveils a 55-storey tower named after Shah Rukh Khan: Inside the Rs 4,000 crore skyscraper
Dubai's Danube Group has unveiled 'Shahrukhz by Danube,' a premium commercial tower on Sheikh Zayed Road, named after and featuring a statue of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. Launched in Mumbai, the 55-56 storey development aims to be an affordable, landmark address for businesses, with completion targeted by Q2 2029.
UAE: Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025 kicks off with over 300 family activities
Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, runs from 17 to 23 November across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. Featuring over 300 activities, including workshops, sports, cultural showcases, and health events, the Week celebrates early childhood, strengthens family bonds, and promotes a family-friendly Emirate
Qatar to host first ever international military music festival, Doha Tattoo, in December 2025
Qatar will host the inaugural Doha Tattoo, an international military music and marching festival, from December 1620, 2025, at Katara Cultural Village. Held under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the festival will feature bands from seven countries, blending Qatari tradition with innovation and showcasing military precision, cultural exchange, and high-quality musical performances.
Kuwait: Four Indian nationals arrested over medical clinic case
Kuwaiti authorities, acting on directives from the Ministry of Interior, raided an unlicensed medical clinic in Farwaniya, arresting four Indian nationals, including one practicing medicine illegally. Investigations uncovered a wider network involving theft of government-issued medicines and illegal distribution by Bangladeshi nationals. In total, eight individuals were detained, and the seized medicines were secured, highlighting efforts to protect public health and enforce the law.
UAE unveils Ciel Dubai Marina, the worlds tallest hotel
Dubai continues to push architectural boundaries with the November 15 launch of Ciel Dubai Marina, the worlds tallest hotel at 377 meters. With 82 floors, 1,004 rooms, record-breaking attractions like the Tattu Sky Pool and Sky Lounge, and multiple luxury dining options, the property, developed by The First Group and managed by IHGs Vignette Collection, promises unmatched panoramic views and high-end experiences.
UAE: Sharjah announces two week celebration for 54th Eid Al Etihad
Sharjah is set to celebrate the 54th Eid Al Etihad from November 19 to December 2, 2025, with two weeks of vibrant parades, musical performances, heritage shows, and cultural activities. Key venues include Al Siyouh Family Park, Kshisha Park, Sharjah National Park, and Al Layyah Canal, offering interactive experiences for families, youth, and communities, honoring the UAEs unity, tradition, and cultural pride.
