From sporting events to diplomatic gestures and cultural milestones, the Middle East is abuzz with diverse news stories. Here’s a compilation of ten noteworthy updates from Middle East shaping the region’s landscape.
1. Al Baik Arrives In Dubai Hills
View this post on Instagram
Saudi Arabia’s renowned culinary delight, Al Baik, has now made its way to Dubai Hills. Located at the ADNOC petrol station, this outpost is open daily from 10 am to midnight, offering the iconic bone-in broasted chicken. This marks the first drive-through of its kind, expanding from its initial presence in the UAE at Dubai Mall since 2021.
2. Dubai Hosts World Skateboarding Tour
More than 500 male and female athletes from various countries of the world are competing in World Skateboarding Tour in #Dubai to book their places for 2024 Paris Olympic Games. https://t.co/0WpMpVkSrP pic.twitter.com/z4YO3IQD6N
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) February 15, 2024
Dubai is set to host its most remarkable edition of the World Skateboarding Tour, featuring Park and Street competitions. Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, this international event will take place at Dubai Harbour from February 25 to March 10. Over 500 male and female athletes from around the world are competing, eyeing spots for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
3. UAE Anticipates Extended Eid Al Fitr Break
Following Ramadan, the next UAE public holiday, Eid al Fitr 2024, is expected to provide a bumper six-day break. Astronomers predict Ramadan to commence on Monday, March 11, 2024, with Eid Al Fitr likely starting on Wednesday, April 10. While the government has shared tentative holiday dates, the official confirmation will be announced closer to the time, based on moon sightings.
4. RTA Partners With Etihad Rail For Dubai-Abu Dhabi Passenger Train
Maktoum bin Mohammed and Theyab bin Mohamed Witness Signing of MoU between #RTA and Etihad Rail at WGS#UAE #Dubai #WGS24 #WorldGovSummit #القمة_العالمية_للحكومات @WorldGovSummit@DXBMediaOffice @rta_dubai @MaktoumMohammed@Etihad_Rail pic.twitter.com/3bZXryBCq5
— UAE Forsan (@UAE_Forsan) February 14, 2024
The UAE’s inaugural passenger train project, linking Dubai to Abu Dhabi, takes a significant step forward with a partnership between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Etihad Rail. Under the agreement signed on Wednesday, February 14, RTA becomes the ticketing and payment partner for Etihad Rail. This collaboration hints at potential integration with Dubai’s existing nol card system for ticket bookings and fare payments.
5. AlUla Arts Festival Returns With Spectacular Exhibitions
بكل حفاوة وترحاب ندعوكم إلى معرض #صحراءXالعلا 2024 بنسخته الثالثة؛ حيث تتجلّى #فنون_العلا بأبهى أعمالها بعنوان “في حضرة الغياب”.
للحجز: https://t.co/DdT6QbgkQN#فنون_العلا pic.twitter.com/9KCaDLc6P5— Arts AlUla فنون العلا (@ArtsAlUla) February 9, 2024
Saudi Arabia’s mesmerizing desert art festival, AlUla Arts Festival, makes a triumphant return, featuring Desert X along with two new exhibitions: The Shadow Over Everything and Unguessed Kinships. These additions stem from AlUla’s visual art and design residencies, unveiled at the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient oasis city of AlUla during the event’s third edition, which commenced on Thursday, February 8.
6. Egypt Cup Comes To Riyadh
View this post on Instagram
The Egypt Cup’s 4th edition makes its debut in Riyadh as part of the Riyadh Season. Announced on Monday, February 12, the event culminates in an exciting match on Friday, March 8, at local team Al Nassr’s home-ground stadium, offering Egyptian team fans in Saudi Arabia the chance to witness the action live.
7. Japan Offers Visa-Free Travel For Kuwaiti Diplomats
Japan extends visa-free travel privileges to Kuwaiti diplomats and plans future visa waivers for citizens. Japanese Ambassador Morino Yasunari reveals measures aimed at facilitating Kuwaiti travel to Japan, highlighting past visits by over 5,000 citizens and ongoing student exchanges between the two nations.
8. DIFC Celebrates 20th Anniversary With Record-breaking Performance
.@DIFC marks 20th anniversary with record-breaking 2023 performance and exceptional contribution to Dubai’s economy. https://t.co/Aft8BfVHKM pic.twitter.com/J21SE4793P
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) February 15, 2024
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) commemorates its 20th anniversary, showcasing a stellar performance in 2023 and contributing significantly to Dubai’s economy. As the leading global financial hub for the MEASA region, DIFC’s achievements underscore its pivotal role in driving economic growth.
9. Al-Aroud Village Resurgence In Asir Region
View this post on Instagram
Residents of Al-Aroud village in the Asir region embrace nostalgia by reclaiming their ancestral homeland after a 50-year absence. The revitalized village boasts over 150 houses, including palaces and historical fortresses, alongside a restored mosque. Weekly social gatherings and cultural activities foster community bonds and a rediscovery of heritage.
10. Epicure Culinary Month Continues At Sofitel Dubai The Palm
View this post on Instagram
Sofitel Dubai The Palm’s EPICURE Culinary Month delights food enthusiasts with a special Four-Hands Dinner collaboration. Executive Chef Anaïs Foray from Sofitel Paris LeFaubourg joins forces with Chef De Cuisine Jefry Tobing for an exclusive dining experience on February 23rd and 24th at the resort’s Porterhouse Steaks & Grills, showcasing a blend of Parisian elegance and culinary craftsmanship.
With each update, the Middle East reaffirms its position as a global hub of activity and intrigue. In conclusion, these ten news updates from the Middle East underscore the region’s dynamism across various sectors.
Cover Image Courtesy: Dubai Media Office, Arts AlUla/ X
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.