As we dive into 2024, the Middle East is buzzing with events, launches, and a dash of nostalgia. From the final call for Riyadh’s Wonder Garden to new programs in Dubai for mothers, something is exciting happening everywhere. Here are the top 10 Middle East updates you need to know for the week ahead!
10 Middle East Updates For You
1. Last Chance To Visit Riyadh’s Wonder Garden In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
If you’ve been meaning to check out the spectacular Wonder Garden at Riyadh Season, the clock is ticking! Saturday, January 11 is your final opportunity to experience this outdoor wonderland before it closes for the season. With 14 entertainment zones, 11 global championships, and 10 exhibitions, Wonder Garden has been the heartbeat of Riyadh Season 2024. Don’t let FOMO take over; tickets are flying off the shelves! So, grab yours now for one last adventure in the world of creativity and fun.
2. Dubai’s Maternity Program Just Got More Convenient For New Moms!
In a game-changing move, Dubai has launched a new initiative to support working mothers. New government employees who are new moms can now work from home on Fridays during their first year post-maternity leave. This thoughtful program, launched by Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum, is a big win for Emirati families. The initiative also includes 10 days of paid marriage leave, making work-life balance feel a little bit easier for everyone. More flexibility for moms? We’re all for it!
3. Carrefour Makes A Sudden Exit Out Of Oman Market
In a surprising turn of events, Carrefour has announced that it will close all operations in Oman this month, only two months after leaving Jordan. The French retail giant shared the news via Facebook, thanking customers for their support throughout the years. Though Carrefour did not specify why it decided to leave, this move is part of a broader shift in the region’s retail dynamics. What does this mean for the Omani grocery scene? Time will tell!
4. Bahrain’s Surf Park Open With A New Wave In MENA Surfing Culture
Bahrain is set to open the first-ever surf park in MENA, and it’s going to be wave-tacular! The Bahrain Surf Park, Club Hawaii Experience, featuring Spain’s advanced ‘Wavegarden Cove’ technology, will be ready by early 2026. Situated on the island’s sunset coast, this surf park will offer over 140,000 surf sessions annually, catering to 90 surfers at once. It’s going to be the ultimate hangout for adrenaline junkies.
5. Egypt’s Inflation Takes A Dip, But Food Prices Still Hike
In some good news for Egyptians, the inflation rate for December 2023 dropped to 24.1%, its lowest in two years. However, food prices have still been on the rise, pushing the annual inflation rate to a steady 20.3%. While the price of food dipped slightly in December, the overall increase signals that there are still tough times ahead for the average consumer. A small win, but not yet the end of the battle.
6. Turkey Tops EU’s List of Food Safety Violations
Turkey has made headlines again, but not for a good reason. According to the EU’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed, Turkish products accounted for the highest number of food safety alerts last year. This raises some serious concerns about the country’s regulatory system, which many believe is being hindered by political interference and corruption. Will Turkey clean up its act? We’ll be watching closely!
7. Dubai Metro Gets Extended Hours For Dubai Marathon
Dubai is ramping up for the Dubai Marathon on Sunday, January 12, and in a bid to make sure everyone gets where they need to be, the Dubai Metro is extending its hours. The Red and Green lines will run from 5 AM to midnight, offering commuters and marathon runners extra time to move around. Whether you’re running or simply in need of a quick ride, Dubai Metro’s got you covered this weekend.
8. Mirdif Motor Show: A Must-Visit For Car Lovers On January 11
If you love the roar of engines and the gleam of polished chrome, don’t miss the Mirdif Motor Show this Saturday, January 11, from 4 PM to 9 PM at City Centre Mirdif’s rooftop. As part of Dubai Shopping Festival’s Auto Season, this show will showcase over 1,000 vehicles—supercars, custom rides, motorbikes, and even RC vehicles. Plus, there’ll be competitions with prizes up for grabs! Buckle up for some serious automotive action.
9. TATEL Dubai Launches ELLA TATEL, A Chic Night Out for Women
Ladies, this one’s for you! Starting January 8, TATEL Dubai, located in Downtown Dubai, has launched ELLA TATEL, a weekly experience designed for women who appreciate elegance and fun. Enjoy unlimited wine, premium spirits, and delicious canapés in a luxurious setting, all for AED 150. Each week, the venue will host Cuban Latin rhythms, creating the perfect ambience for dancing, relaxing, and enjoying your night out.
10. Demon Duck Celebrates Chinese New Year With A Special Tasting Menu
Ready to ring in the Year of the Snake? Demon Duck is hosting an exclusive tasting menu from January 27 to February 2, featuring an array of signature dishes. Start with Lo Hei Slaw RAW for prosperity and enjoy a mix of wild mushroom dim sum, scallop dumplings, and truffle chicken. Each dish is designed to balance tradition with a modern twist. Gather your friends (five or more) and enjoy a 25% discount, because what’s a celebration without a little extra treat?
Keep an eye on these updates because the Middle East is definitely on the move this January!
Cover Image Courtesy: Riyadh Season/Website, Supplied
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