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CT Quickies: From Alphonso Mango Feasts in Doha to Air India Express’s New Goa-Kuwait Flights, 10 Middle East Updates

here are 10 quickies to keep you in the know.

by Deeplata Garde
CT Quickies: From Alphonso Mango Feasts in Doha to Air India Express’s New Goa-Kuwait Flights, 10 Middle East Updates

Buckle up, Middle East fam. Your weekly hit of Middle East updates, launches, and news you didn’t know you needed is here. From mango mania in Doha to a budget party in Dubai, here are 10 quickies to keep you in the know and the now.

10 Middle East Updates You Need To Read Today!

1. Saudi Arabia Deploys AI for Hajj 2025

Saudi Arabia is prepping for the Hajj 2025 for the upcoming season. The Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque authorities just dropped the mic with their most expansive Hajj plan yet. “Manarah 2,” a multilingual AI robot, will help guide millions of pilgrims. Interactive screens, a digital Qur’an hub, and a Surah Al-Fatiha app round off the techy upgrades

2. Abu Dhabi Just Shut Down a Supermarket and Restaurant

Wafi Hypermarket and Mana Rotsholo Restaurant were closed faster than you can say “food safety.” Why? Pest infestations, expired stock, and hygiene horrors. Despite several warnings, these spots kept racking up violations like they were collecting stamps. ADAFSA wasn’t allowing it anymore.

3. Westfield Malls Are Coming To Saudi Arabia

Westfield, the bougie mall brand you know from London and LA, is setting up shop in Saudi Arabia. Three malls: Jawharat Riyadh, Jawharat Jeddah, and Nakheel Dammam are getting a glow-up under a 10-year deal with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield. Think global brands, Instagrammable cafés, and queues outside Zara. Retail therapy just went deluxe.

4. Mango Madness at Jamavar Doha

Alphonso lovers, your time has come. Jamavar Doha has launched a mango-inspired feast featuring street food faves and coastal classics. Think Meen Manga Curry (with sea bass and raw mango) and scallops swimming in a tangy mango sauce. The grand finale? Mango Delice, basically a dessert made for Instagram. Run, don’t walk.

5. Saturday Brunch at The Lighthouse, Dubai Hills

Saturdays just got tastier. The Lighthouse at Dubai Hills is now throwing a Mediterranean brunch bash from 12:30 pm to 4 pm. Expect truffle-infused salmon carpaccio, black angus steak frites, and chilled vibes that’ll make you forget Monday even exists. It’s classy. It’s sunlit.

6. Muscat Grand Mall Launches ‘Little India’—Desi Vibes

 

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Muscat just turned the spice dial up. ‘Little India’ is now open inside Muscat Grand Mall, spotlighting Indian fashion, food, and culture. It’s not just a shopping spot; it’s a full-blown cultural trip. Biryani, bangles, and Bollywood all under one roof? Yes, please.

7. Turkish Airlines Resumes Russia Flights And It’s Happening Fast

After a brief pause, Turkish Airlines is resuming all flights to Russia starting May 9. This move comes after a green light from Russia’s aviation authority. Good news if you’ve got plans involving a quick trip. Book those tickets.

8. Bahrain Welcomes Shaza Hotels

 

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Say hello to Mysk Al Fateh Bahrain, the kingdom’s newest hotel by Shaza. Officially open from May 1, this spot oozes Arabian hospitality with a modern edge. Think plush interiors, Silk Route flair, and service with actual warmth. Whether you’re local or passing through, this place offers staycations with luxury.

9. Air India Express Now Flying Goa-Kuwait & Goa-Abu Dhabi Direct

Manohar International Airport in Goa just got two shiny new routes. Air India Express has launched direct flights to Kuwait (Thursdays and Saturdays) and Abu Dhabi (Mondays and Tuesdays). It’s a win for Goans abroad, business folk, and wanderlusters who fancy the best of beach and bazaar.

Also Read: CT Quickies: From Dubai’s Beach Improvement Program To Oman’s New Rules For GCC Vehicles, 10 Middle East Updates

10. The Huddle Al Barsha Turns 15

 

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On May 10, from 12 pm to 6 pm, The Huddle is hosting a birthday bash with AED 15 drinks. Expect house spirits, bubbly, live tunes, and serious throwback vibes. Whether you’re a regular or just thirsty for a good time, this one’s worth visiting.

Final Sip

That’s your round-up, folks. From robot greeters at Hajj to mango feasts and new air routes, the Middle East is buzzing with updates that are anything but boring. Check back next week for more CT Quickies, because in the Middle East, the headlines never sleep.

Cover Image Courtesy: Jamavar London/Instagram, Wikipedia

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First Published: May 09, 2025 6:04 PM