UAE President and Vice President share messages honouring Prophet Muhammads birthday
On the occasion of Prophet Muhammads (PBUH) birthday, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid shared heartfelt messages reflecting on his legacy of compassion, peace, and guidance. They offered prayers for global stability, unity, and prosperity, honouring the Prophet as a source of light and mercy for humanity.
Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2025: Whats the history, significance, and rituals behind the festival?
Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2025, observed on September 5, marks the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. Rooted in Islamic history, the festival is celebrated with prayers, processions, charity, and community gatherings. It highlights the Prophets teachings of compassion, peace, and unity. The occasion blends tradition with devotion, bringing Muslims together in remembrance and reflection across diverse communities worldwide.
How NRIs in the UAE can update their Indian passport address: A complete guide
NRIs living in the UAE must reissue their Indian passport to update outdated addresses or include their UAE residence. The process, handled through BLS International, requires specific documents, in-person verification, and adherence to official guidelines. Whether updating based on personal residence, a spouse or parent, or adding a UAE address, applicants must follow the step-by-step process to ensure compliance.
UAE clarifies new corporate tax rules for free zones: What Businesses need to know now
The UAEs Ministry of Finance has issued new rules clarifying corporate tax treatment for Free Zone businesses. The updated framework broadens qualifying activities, including more commodities and treasury services, and sets clear pricing standards. These changes aim to boost transparency, align with global tax norms, and support the UAEs economic growth by preserving Free Zones tax benefits under stricter compliance.
Oman: Residents to get three day weekend as Prophet Muhammads birthday holiday falls on Sunday
Oman has declared Sunday, September 7 a public holiday for both public and private sector employees to mark Prophet Muhammads (PBUH) birthday. Since the actual date, Friday, September 5, falls on the weekend, the observance was shifted, creating a three-day weekend. Employers may require work on the holiday but must provide compensatory leave or pay.
UAE: Dubai announces free parking and extended metro hours for Prophets birthday
Dubais Roads and Transport Authority announced free public parking on September 5, 2025, in observance of Prophet Muhammads birthday, except at multi-level and Al Khail Gate parking. Metro hours will be extended until 1 AM. Customer Happiness Centres will mostly close, except five smart centres open 24/7. The day marks the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal, celebrating the Prophets birth.
UAE: One dead, two injured in multiple-vehicle collision on Emirates Road in Dubai
A deadly three-vehicle crash on Emirates Road near Dubai Club Bridge on September 3 was caused by tailgating, killing one and injuring two. Dubai Police attributed the collision to failure to maintain safe distance. Authorities are enforcing Dh400 fines, black points, and AI radar monitoring, as tailgating remains a leading cause of road fatalities in the UAE.
Omans Golden Visa offers long-term residency through diverse investment options, including real estate, company shares, government bonds, and job creation. With clear eligibility criteria and tiered residency durations (5 or 10 years), the program supports economic diversification and family inclusion. Applications are processed via Migrate World, providing a transparent, flexible pathway for investors aligned with Omans Vision 2040 goals.
Etihad Airways aims to deliver 100 Mbps in-flight Wi-Fi fleetwide within three years, enhancing passenger experience. The airline posted a strong AED 1.1 billion profit in the first half of 2025, fueled by 17% passenger growth, a fleet exceeding 100 aircraft, and 27 new destinations. With ongoing hires and expansions, Etihad continues to strengthen its global position amid economic uncertainties.
UAE: Dubai Metro adds new direct route to ease peak hour congestion on Red Line
Dubai's RTA has launched a new peak-hour direct Dubai Metro Red Line route from Centrepoint to Al Fardan Exchange Station, aiming to ease congestion and reduce travel times. Now offering four direct endpoints, the move improves efficiency, cuts transfers at Jebel Ali, and enhances commuter comfort. Early results show reduced crowding, shorter waits, and better operational performance.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi ceases operations: What new travel options are available?
Wizz Air has officially ceased operations from its Abu Dhabi hub as of September 1, citing geopolitical challenges and operational constraints. The move impacts budget travellers across the region, but several low-cost carriersincluding Air Arabia, flydubai, and flynasare stepping in with expanded routes. Affordable travel options in the UAE remain strong, with new routes and alternatives now available.
UAE residents facing flight delays or cancellations are legally entitled to compensation under local law and the Montreal Convention. Passengers can claim up to 4,150 SDRs for expenses like meals or accommodation, even if rebooked. Proper documentation and timely claims are key. Recent rulings reinforce accountability, improving passenger rights and encouraging better airline performance across the industry.
UAE: Dubai sets new Guinness World Record for largest mall run as 40,000 join month-long event
The Dubai Mallathon concluded after a month-long fitness campaign across nine malls, drawing over 40,000 participants and setting a Guinness World Record with 1,392 runners at Dubai Hills Mall. Backed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the initiative logged more than 120 million steps and aligned with national efforts like the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.
UAE Work and Remote Visas: Whos eligible, what they cost, and how to apply
This guide explains the essential details of UAE visas for foreign workers and remote professionals. It covers the employer-sponsored work visa, including its application process, costs, and validity, as well as the remote work visa for those employed abroad. The article highlights legal requirements, documents needed, and key differences to help readers navigate UAE residency and work regulations confidently.
Bahrain says local factories can now import raw materials duty-free to stay competitive
Bahrain has introduced duty-free import rules for factories under Decision No. 63 of 2025, allowing exemptions on industrial inputs that are unavailable, below standards, delayed, or costlier locally. The move aims to reduce production costs, boost local manufacturing, and align with Bahrains Industrial Strategy 20222026 and Economic Vision 2030, strengthening self-sufficiency and enhancing global industrial competitiveness.
UAE Golden Visa holders can switch jobs without altering their residency status, thanks to the visas self-sponsored nature. However, a new employer must obtain a work permit through MoHRE before employment begins. The process is straightforward, with exemptions during probation and minimal impact on dependents. This guide explains the legal framework, required documents, and key benefits for both parties.
The Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation and the International Finance Corporation have launched a UAE-led initiative to train and employ nearly 7,000 young people half women, in Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria. The program focuses on market-relevant skills, business English, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship, targeting displaced and marginalized youth to create sustainable job opportunities and long-term economic resilience in the region.
Bahrains Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications launched the Bahrain Post electronic locker service on September 2, 2025. The service enables secure, flexible parcel collection from lockers at major malls and commercial hubs. Designed to improve convenience and operational efficiency, the initiative supports Bahrains broader strategy to modernize postal services and enhance customer-focused logistics infrastructure across the Kingdom.
SpiceJet ordered to pay 55,000 to Dubai passenger over 14 hour flight delay
A passenger on a delayed DubaiMumbai SpiceJet flight received only a burger and fries during a 14-hour wait. A Mumbai consumer court ruled this was inadequate and ordered the airline to pay 55,000 in compensation. The court held that airlines must provide proper care during delays, rejecting SpiceJets defence of technical issues as an excuse.
UAE to end OTPs by 2026: What will replace them? Key details every residents need to know
The Central Bank of the UAE has mandated the phase-out of SMS and email one-time passwords (OTPs) by March 2026, citing rising fraud risks and inefficiencies. From July 2025, banks will roll out new authentication systems such as passkeys, biometrics, and UAE Pass integration. The shift aims to enhance security, reduce costs, and modernize digital banking.
Bahrain will open online registration for the 1447 AH (2026) Hajj season on September 3 via official Hajj platform closing on September 16. Applicants must register through the eKey system, hold a valid ID, and may include four companions. Accepted pilgrims can select campaigns from September 16 and pay BD 150. Health and ID verification are mandatory.
Storms incoming: UAE to face rain, hail and dusty winds this week
The UAE is set to experience unstable weather this week, with heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds expected in eastern and southern regions. The shift is driven by low-pressure systems and the northward movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone. Temperatures will remain high during the day but are expected to drop below 30C at night.
Egypt: Four months after death, Ibrahim Shikas family alleges organ theft
Four months after the death of former Zamalek player Ibrahim Shika, his family has filed a legal complaint alleging organ theft and medical negligence. Shika, who died at 28 after battling rectal cancer, is now at the center of an investigation. Authorities are examining claims that organs were removed post-mortem, with suspicions directed toward his widow.
US dollar holds steady against Egyptian pound across major banks on September 1
The US dollar exchange rate remained stable against the Egyptian pound on September 1, 2025, across all major Egyptian banks. The Central Bank of Egypt recorded EGP 48.52 for buying and EGP 48.66 for selling. Most banks, including NBE, Banque Misr, CIB, and others, posted consistent rates of EGP 48.54 for buying and EGP 48.64 for selling.
Asia Cup 2025: Match timings pushed back due to UAE heat, full revised schedule announced
The Asia Cup 2025, held in the UAE from September 928, will see revised match timings due to extreme heat, with 18 of 19 games now starting at 6:30 PM GST (8 PM IST). Featuring eight teams in a T20 format, the tournament includes high-profile clashes like India vs Pakistan and serves as key preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy.
Weather alert: Thick fog disrupts early morning in Abu Dhabi as UAE braces for extreme heat
Abu Dhabi faced dense early morning fog on September 1, prompting red alerts and traffic advisories due to near-zero visibility. The fog was followed by extreme heat across the UAE, with temperatures soaring up to 47.6C in some areas. Authorities urged caution as high humidity, dusty skies, and convective cloud activity added to the regions severe weather conditions.
New video evidence has surfaced in the death of Athulya Sekhar, an Indian woman found dead in Sharjah on her 30th birthday. The footage shows her husband physically assaulting her and issuing death threats. Though ruled a suicide by UAE authorities, her family alleges years of abuse. The case is now under investigation by Kerala Police.
Gold price in Egypt rises again, 24 Carat at 5,354 (9,744) per gram on September 1, 2025
Gold prices in Egypt climbed on September 1, 2025, with 24-carat gold reaching 5,354 (9,744) and 21-carat at 4,685 (8,526) per gram. The rise follows global gold hitting a four-month high and a weaker Egyptian pound against the U.S. dollar. Despite recent local interest rate cuts, global market trends and currency shifts mainly drive the price increase.
Houthis appoint new prime minister following Al-Rahwis assassination: Who is he?
Following the assassination of Ahmed al-Rahawi in an Israeli airstrike on Sanaa, Yemens Houthi movement appointed Mohammed Ahmed Muftah as acting Prime Minister. Born in 1967, Muftah has been a key figure within the group, known for his religious background and long-standing involvement. His appointment comes amid ongoing tensions in the region.
UAE: Abu Dhabi hosts regions largest ever International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition
The 22nd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition opened with record participation from 68 countries, showcasing Emirati heritage, sustainable hunting, and equestrian sports. Running until September 7, the event features 15 sectors and spans 92,000 square meters. Supported by national leaders, it blends tradition with innovation, attracting global experts, exhibitors, and enthusiasts to celebrate culture and outdoor lifestyles.
UAE and India strengthen trade ties with $37.6 Billion in Non-Oil Trade
During an official visit to Mumbai, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi met with Indian Minister Piyush Goyal and business leaders to review CEPA progress and boost sectoral collaboration. With non-oil trade reaching $37.6 billion in H1 2025a 33.9% riseboth nations discussed expanding partnerships in logistics, healthcare, agriculture, and technology, and highlighted Bharat Mart's development.
Total Lunar Eclipse in UAE: When and where to watch on September 7
On the night of September 7, 2025, the UAE will witness a rare total lunar eclipse lasting 82 minutes, during which the Moon will turn a deep red as it passes through Earths shadow, with the event fully visible across all seven emirates and accompanied by public viewing events, expert-led sessions, and a global livestream for audiences worldwide.
Egyptian doctor filmed dancing with newborn sparks outrage, faces professional ethics probe
A viral video showing an Egyptian doctor dancing with a newborn babyholding the infant by the neck and placing it between his feethas sparked national outrage. The Doctors Syndicate has summoned him for investigation, citing a violation of professional ethics. Disciplinary action is expected pending a full inquiry, with possible penalties including suspension or permanent license revocation.
