It is quite important to keep up with the updates from across the GCC region. To ensure you are ahead of these updates, we have made a list of them for you. So, making it easier for you, we have made a list of them from across the GCC region for you that you absolutely cannot miss.
GCC Updates
1. GCAA Announces Recreational & Sports Aviation Permits Currently Suspended
The General Civil Aviation Authority has notified that all recreational and sports aviation permits are currently suspended. As revealed in their post on X, the authority has mentioned that with no valid permit, one will be exposed to immediate legal accountability. So, one must comply with the law.
2. Educational Guidelines Issued For Pilgrims
As mentioned by the SPA, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued educational guidelines for pilgrims. This guideline has been issued regarding the performance of Saai between Safa and Marwah. This was posted in an educational video for the pilgrims.
3. Zayed National Museum Named TIME’s World’s Greatest Places 2026
Zayed National Museum, as revealed by the AD Media Office, has been named one of TIME’s World’s Greatest Places 2026. As it happens, the museum has recognised 100 extraordinary destinations worldwide. For those who are wondering, it is located in the Saadiyat Cultural District. Not to mention, the museum traces 300,000 years of human history.
4. 156,693 Surplus Iftar Meals Collected At Prophet’s Mosque
SPA recently revealed that a total of 1,520 male and female volunteers collected 156,693 surplus iftar meals. This is at the Prophet’s Mosque, and the collection has been between the 1st and 26th of Ramadan. As a part of the effort led by the Food Preservation Society, the goal is to reduce food waste. Not to mention, it aims to redistribute surplus meals to those in need.
Also Read: Cultural Performances To Workshops, Zayed National Museum Announces Joy Of Eid Programme
5. Farasan Islands Reserve Gets Added To IUCN Green List
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as revealed by the Saudi Gazette, has included the Farasan Islands Reserve in the Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas. For those wondering, it is managed by the National Center for Wildlife Development, as the list is of areas that meet the international standards for effective and equitable management.
Take note of these updates from across the region to stay ahead of what’s happening in the Middle East.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Felix Friebe from Getty Images (Cover image is for representative purposes only)
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. First Published: March 17, 2026 3:58 PMFAQs
Where is the Farasan Islands Reserve?
Farasan Islands Reserve is in Saudi Arabia, and it has been added to the Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas.
Where is the Zayed National Museum?
The Zayed National Museum is located in Abu Dhabi, and it showcases 300,000 years of human history.
How many Iftar meals have been collected at the Prophet’s Mosque?
The Prophet’s Mosque has collected 156,693 surplus Iftar meals.