From solar wows to matcha moments, here are 10 big headlines lighting up the Middle East. Here’s your weekly dose of Middle East updates, served hotter than a Karak in August. From giant croissants and cosmic wonders to budget bites and shiny new buses, this week’s headlines have it all. So, pour yourself a gahwa and scroll on. Let’s go!
10 Buzz-Worthy Middle East Updates This Week
1. Solar Eclipse To Fill Arab Skies With Darkness For 6 Full Minutes In 2027
Save the date: August 2, 2027. A rare celestial event will throw five Arab nations into total darkness for over six minutes. NASA confirmed that Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt will witness this eclipse before it cruises into Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Scientists say it’ll be the longest total eclipse of the century—and the next one like it won’t hit until 2114.
2. Nando’s Just Got Bigger And Spicier At JBR
Flame-grilled chicken fans, rejoice! The South African brand just opened its largest UAE outlet right on the buzzing Jumeirah Beach Residence beachfront. Two storeys, indoor-outdoor seating, and all the PERi-PERi vibes. This JBR flagship follows fresh launches in Al Wahda Mall, Khalifa City, and DIP.
3. Dubai’s RTA Adds 637 Buses And Goes Electric
Your daily commute’s about to get comfier. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is rolling out 637 new buses, including 40 electric ones, the UAE’s first bulk order of its kind. All buses will meet top-tier Euro 6 emissions standards, making public transport greener and cleaner.
4. Saudi Arabia’s Expo 2030 Gets Its Own Powerhouse Company
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has launched Expo 2030 Riyadh Co., a new firm dedicated to planning, building, and running the Kingdom’s first-ever World Expo. Expect infrastructure on power and some seriously futuristic programming by the time Riyadh takes the world stage.
5. Salalah Welcomes Saudi Flights For Khareef Season
Dhofar’s dreamy monsoon season just got more accessible. Saudi Airlines has launched three weekly flights from Jeddah to Salalah for Khareef 2025. Salalah Airport is ready for its busiest season yet with 12 airlines now on board. Expect misty and cool weather with plenty of green.
6. Two Dubai & Multiple Other Flights, Cancelled By Air India
Travellers alert! Several domestic and international flight cancellations for Air India have been reported due to maintenance work. AI906 to Chennai and AI2204 to Hyderabad, both from Dubai, were also cancelled. We suggest double-checking your bookings before arriving at the airport..
7. Finland Processing Pakistani Student Visas In Doha
To ease student visa hassles, Finland is temporarily handling Pakistani residence permits in Doha, Qatar, until July 11. The move aims to help students struggling with UAE entry barriers; appointments are open now.
8. Egypt Unearths The World’s Oldest Dress
Fashion throwback of the millennium: A 5,000-year-old linen dress was discovered in Egypt’s Tarkhan Cemetery. Tailored and stitched, not draped, this prehistoric fit proves ancient Egyptians were well ahead of their style game.
Also Read: Ameca’s Latest Version At Museum Of Future To 29th Muscat Book Fair; 10 Middle East Updates For You
9. Talabat UAE Serves AED 10 Meals For A Limited Time
Yes, really. Talabat has teamed up with Kitopi to offer select meals for just AED 10. Get your hands on dishes from top spots like Operation: Falafel, Sushido, and Jarful. Available for a short while only, check the app before the offer disappears.
10. Saudi Arabia Launches Direct Flights From Kuwait To Aseer
Starting July 15, Saudi Arabia is kicking off direct flights from Kuwait to Aseer three times a week, just in time for Aseer Season. Think cultural festivals, outdoor adventures, mountain views, and a summer escape with real breeze power.
Until Next Week…
From solar spectacles to budget bites, this week’s round-up had a bit of everything. Whether you’re eclipse-watching or planning your next Khareef escape, stay curious, stay quirky, and we’ll be back with more Middle East updates soon.
Cover Image Courtesy: Nando’s UAE/Instagram, Wikipedia/Nic McPhee
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