From Air Canada Extending Dubai Flights Suspension To RAK Hotel Makeovers, 5 GCC Updates

From award wins to hotel makeovers and travel disruptions, here are the latest updates from across the GCC. From Marjan refurbishes two RAK hotels, Sharjah issues a toy safety warning to Air Canada extends its Dubai suspension.

5 GCC Updates For Today

1. Visit Qatar Wins At Digiday Technology Awards

It has won Best Alternative Identification Technology at the 2026 Digiday Technology Awards for its global “Arrivals” campaign, created with Hearts United and Seedtag. Announced on 22 September, the award recognises a privacy-first approach that reached relevant audiences without third-party cookies or personal IDs. Launched in November 2025 and set in the arrivals terminal at Hamad International Airport, the campaign used cinematic storytelling and internationally recognised talent to showcase Qatar’s calendar of cultural, sporting and entertainment events.

2. Louvre Abu Dhabi Enters Its Next Phase

Louvre Abu Dhabi has unveiled its 2026–2027 season, spanning the Indian Ocean, heritage protection and contemporary art from the GCC and India. Spices and Wonders: Sailing the Indian Ocean, developed with Paris’s Guimet museum, explores 1,000 years of maritime exchange. A second edition will be presented at the Guimet from 12 May to 6 September 2027.

3. Marjan Hospitality Refurbishes Two RAK Hotels

Marjan Hospitality is refurbishing more than 600 rooms across Rixos Al Mairid and Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island. The main building rooms at Rixos Al Mairid will reopen in December 2026 with a premium positioning. Pullman’s 300 rooms will reopen in Q2 2027 as an adults-only resort under the “Ocean Dusk & Dawn” design concept. Alison Grinnell, Group COO of Marjan and CEO of Marjan Hospitality, said each property should have a clear identity as new developments raise the bar across the emirate.

4. Sharjah Body Warns Families About Squishy And Slime Toys

The Child Safety Organisation, affiliated with the Sharjah Family and Community Council, has urged caution over squishy and slime toys of unknown origin. It warns that heated squishies can burst and burn skin, that water beads can expand dangerously if swallowed, and that unregulated products may contain unsafe chemicals. Parents are advised to check age guidance and manufacturer details, buy from trusted sources, discard damaged toys and monitor online challenges.

Also Read: From Emirates Offering Free Goodies To Qatar’s 41°C Heat, 5 GCC Updates You Need To Know

5. Air Canada Extends Dubai Suspension

Air Canada has extended its Dubai suspension to the end of March 2027, pushing back a return previously expected in mid-January. The airline first suspended the route on 2 March. Emirates and flydubai continue to operate from Dubai, and Emirates flies to Toronto and Montreal. Affected Air Canada passengers can rebook without fees, switch destinations or take credit.

Cover Image Courtesy: Media Library

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