Welcome to Middle East Updates, where the region’s latest headlines come alive! This week, we’ve got a mix of exciting news from across the Middle East, covering everything from new travel regulations to dazzling entertainment spectacles. CT Quickies will keep you in the loop with all the need-to-know developments.
1. No More Job Hunts On A Tourist Visa In The UAE
If you’re planning to sneak in a bit of job hunting while enjoying Dubai’s skyline, think again. The UAE government has tightened the noose around illegal employment practices, particularly targeting those trying to work or search for a job on visit visas. Companies hiring without proper work permits now face jaw-dropping fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1 million (that’s up to Rs 2.3 crore, folks!). These hefty fines make it crystal clear: come for the Burj Khalifa, not the job search.
2. Visa-Free Entry To Sri Lanka For 35 Countries Including UAE & Riyadh, Middle East
Sri Lanka is rolling out the red carpet! Starting October 1, citizens from 35 countries, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, can waltz into the island nation without the usual visa fuss. You’ll get a 30-day visa on arrival, valid for six months. The Sri Lankan Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that Saudi citizens can now visit visa-free starting October 1st.
3. Dubai Metro Extends Hours For Airport Rush
هل ستصل إلى #دبي خلال عطلة نهاية الأسبوع؟#هيئة_الطرق_و_المواصلات تحرص على ضمان تنقّلك السهل من خلال تمديد ساعات عمل #مترو_دبي بين محطتي سنتربوينت وجي جي كو، من الساعة 5:00 صباحًا إلى 2:00 صباحًا (اليوم التالي) من 22 إلى 24 أغسطس، ومن الساعة 8:00 صباحًا إلى 2:00 صباحًا (اليوم… pic.twitter.com/qzdyNK4b9y
— RTA (@rta_dubai) August 22, 2024
Dubai Metro is stretching its schedule to accommodate the crowds expected at Dubai International Airport in the coming days. The airport anticipates a whopping 3.43 million passengers between August 21 and September 2. So, if you’re planning a trip, you can rely on the Metro’s extended hours until Sunday, August 25, to whisk you to and from the airport without breaking a sweat for traffic.
4. Ikea Opens Another Store In The UAE
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Just when you thought Ikea couldn’t get any closer, it opened a new store! Al-Futtaim Ikea has unveiled its latest small-format store at Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi, just weeks after the grand opening in the City Centre of Fujairah. So, whether you’re after furniture or meatballs, Ikea is making sure you’re never far from flat-pack furniture heaven.
5. Cirque Dreams Elysion Comes To Al Ain, Middle East
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Al Ain, get ready for a circus like no other! Cirque Dreams Elysion, the latest show from the Cirque Dreams franchise, is making its dazzling debut this weekend. From August 23 to September 8, prepare to be transported to a world of pure imagination, where acrobatics meet artistry in a spectacular fusion. Grab your tickets and buckle up for a breathtaking experience that’s coming straight to Middle East.
6. Riyadh Metro Set To Launch Later This Year
Riyadh is on the brink of a transportation revolution with the upcoming launch of the Riyadh Metro, Middle East. Set to open later this year, this $22.5bn project is the world’s largest metro network built in a single phase. Transport Minister Saleh Al Jasser confirmed that this ambitious project will transform the city’s commute and set a new benchmark for urban transportation.
Also Read: Middle East Shines At Paris Olympics! These Athletes Have Bagged 17 Medals; Country-Wise List Inside
7. Careem School Rides Make Back-To-School Easy
Say goodbye to school-run stress with Careem School Rides! This Dubai-based service, in partnership with the RTA, offers a tech-savvy alternative to traditional school buses. With over 100,000 trips completed since launch, it’s clear that parents are loving this reliable, stress-free commuting option for their little ones.
8. Qatar Airways Partners With Maldivian For Seamless Travel
Qatar Airways is elevating travel experiences to the Maldives through its new interline partnership with Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives, providing passengers the option to book both Qatar Airways and Maldivian flights on https://t.co/1T0MS4AJnD.
For more… pic.twitter.com/VLcTraUxax
— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) August 22, 2024
Here’s a quick update from the Middle East. Dreaming of the Maldives? Qatar Airways has just made getting there easier through a new interline partnership with Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives. Now, you can book your journey with both airlines in one smooth transaction, making your tropical escape more seamless than ever.
9. Petra Joins The Global Sustainable Tourism Council
The ancient city of Petra, Jordan’s crown jewel, is taking a stand for sustainable travel by joining the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This move aligns Petra with international standards for sustainable tourism, ensuring that its breathtaking beauty is preserved for generations to come. Nowadays Sustainable tourism has become a popular trend in the Middle East.
10. Muscat Urges Residents To Whitewash Their Walls
Muscat Municipality is turning up the charm by encouraging residents to paint their exterior walls in shades of white. From bright whites to soft ivories, this initiative aims to keep the city’s aesthetic both symmetric and classy, while honouring Muscat’s architectural heritage. It’s all part of a broader plan to make Muscat as beautiful as it is historic in the region of Middle East.
As always, Middle East Updates brings you the freshest news and stories from across the region.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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