The Middle East has been turning the script by unveiling a bunch of buzzworthy updates this week. From attracting visitors to the beach to laying out strict rules for vehicles, Middle Eastern countries have been taking us through a whirlwind of news. So here are some quick skims to go through today and get updated on the entire week!
10 Middle East Updates
1. Dubai Set To Implement New Facilities To Attract Beach Visitors This Summer
In a bid to attract visitors to the beach this summer, Dubai has launched an initiative to make it more attractive. Based on user experiences, several changes and facilities would be introduced on-site. The initiative progresses to invite residents and tourists alike to the beach throughout the year. Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan includes enhancement plans for the public beaches.
2. Sharjah Municipality Shuts Down Illegal Food Outlets After Safety Violations
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Abu Dhabi has been leading in cases of food safety, and Sharjah has recently followed. The Sharjah Municipality has shut down two outlets that were caught storing banned food items. The department was swift to confiscate the prohibited items and stop further distribution of the illegal food. The municipality has been implementing the safety regulations for food across the UAE.
3. Abu Dhabi To Get A Spell Of Harry Potter Orchestra
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Harry Potter fans, assemble in Abu Dhabi to get lost in a musical experience of a lifetime. A bewitching Harry Potter Film Concert Series is coming to the UAE capital at Etihad Arena. Get ready to be transported by the magic on a 40-ft screen as the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra plays live in the background, making the atmosphere nostalgic.
4. Hip-Hop Queen Mary J Blige To Bedazzle Dubai With Her Tunes!
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Hip-hop fans in the house, Mary J Blige is coming to Dubai and we can’t keep calm! Coca-Cola Arena is about to be filled with high notes this Summer as the Queen sets the stage on fire! Clear your calendars to catch the nine-time Grammy award winner in Dubai this June for just AED 295.
5. Dubai Municipality Launches Urban Planning Masterclass
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After launching the Creators Academy, Dubai is back with another surprise. Dubai Municipality never fails to surprise us and this time its Urban Planning Masterclass for Building a Resilient City” programme. For those unaware, this initiative is basically for Emirati planners to equip them with advanced knowledge of urban planning in the city.
Also Read: Ameca’s Latest Version At Museum Of Future To 29th Muscat Book Fair; 10 Middle East Updates For You
6. Riyadh Air Expands Across 125 Countries Through Codeshare Agreements
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ATM proves beneficial for Riyadh Air as it signs significant agreements with leading partners to expand its reach in the market. With a total of 11 agreements signed, Riyadh Air has covered 125 countries in terms of partners and distributors. The aim is to boost the airline’s brand visibility in the aviation industry and promote its range of services.
7. Oman Set Out Import Vehicle Rules For GCC
Oman has set out some stringent rules regarding the import of vehicles from the GCC. As per guidelines submitted by the Royal Oman Police, no vehicles with only a Clearence certificate would be allowed for imports inside the Sultanate of Oman. Every vehicle importer would be liable to present an export certificate. This mandate document has to be issued by legal authorities
8. Dubai’s Iconic Jumeirah Emirates Tower Turns 25!
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The iconic tower of Dubai, no, we aren’t talking about Burj khalifa or Burj Al Arab! Jumeirah Emirates Tower turned 25! This tower has been a stellar sight in the Dubai skyline for decades now and has been a powerful influence in the hospitality industry of the Emirate.
9. Etihad Traveller Spotted With Falcon On Abu Dhabi Airport
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Spotting a man with a falcon in Dubai is a common sight when you visit desert areas or spots that host shows. But imagine spotting one at the airport? Well, yes, an Etihad passenger was spotted travelling with a falcon in his hand, leaving the internet amazed. The fellow passenger was travelling from Abu Dhabi to Morocco, and the pet falcon also had a valid passport to fly (not literally) with the flight.
10. Dubai International Airport To Close Soon, Impacting UK Passengers’ Travel
Dubai International (DXB) welcomed 23.4 million passengers in Q1 2025, marking a 1.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The growth reflects both Dubai’s rising appeal as a global destination & DXB’s continued role as the gateway of choice for millions of travellers. pic.twitter.com/3toWvb2tab
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 30, 2025
The 65-year-old, the DXB Airport to close soon. 17K daily passengers from the UK will be shocked to understand this change as the CEO confirms the news of closure at Arabian Travel Market and promises shifting of every single service to the DWC Airport. Till the dates of closure are announced, there’s absolutely no need to panic as the Dubai International Airport will be running and handling the current services with full force.
That’s all for today’s Middle East Updates, untill next time, Ma’a Salama, Habibi!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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