Did you miss out on some important events from the GCC region this weekend? Well, we are here to your rescue. From Dubai to Saudi, we have jotted down 5 important news to keep you updated about this region. So here are some of the GCC updates to look forward to.
GCC Updates: Wizz Air Abu Dhabi’s New MultiPass
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is revolutionising travel with the launch of the Wizz MultiPass, a flight subscription service designed to cater to frequent travellers while rewarding loyalty. This innovative service allows subscribers to fly multiple times a year at fixed prices, covering both tickets and baggage on international flights to and from the UAE. For a set monthly fee, travellers can enjoy stress-free and budget-friendly travel without the worry of seasonal price changes or last-minute booking surcharges.
Emirates Expands in Vietnam: Double the Flights, Double the Fun
We’re adding a second daily flight to Ho Chi Minh City starting from 15 January, to meet the surge in demand ahead of the Lunar New Year festival. https://t.co/JTBimgIyCc pic.twitter.com/mzoR7sizUF
— Emirates (@emirates) May 17, 2024
Starting January 15, 2025, Emirates will expand its operations in Vietnam with a second daily flight between Dubai and Ho Chi Minh City. This expansion responds to the increasing demand during the Lunar New Year. Operated by the Emirates Boeing 777-300ER, the flight features a two-class configuration with 42 seats in Business Class and 386 in Economy Class. With this addition, passengers will have more flexibility and convenience in planning their travel between these vibrant cities.
GCC Updates: Maitha bint Mohammed Street Closure, Be Aware Of The Taxi
أبوظبي للتنقل ينجز مشروعاً لتحديث نظام الإضاءة في نفق الشيخ زايد وفق أحدث المعايير والتقنيات المتطورة، بهدف رفع كفاءة استهلاك الطاقة، وتعزيز الاستدامة في البنية التحتية الحيوية. pic.twitter.com/onvrCc5lKj
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 19, 2024
Heads up, drivers! Maitha bint Mohammed Street will undergo partial closure starting May 19 at midnight, lasting until June 9. This closure aims to facilitate essential infrastructure work and street enhancements. During this period, traffic will redirect to the opposite side of the street, ensuring the necessary upgrades can proceed smoothly. Plan your routes accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.
Saudi Arabia’s Duty-Free Shops: New Tax Exemptions
Tax Alert: ZATCA issued the draft rules for duty-free shops to seek public opinion on the Public Consultation Platform (Isltilaa), starting November 14 until November 28. You can view this draft in Arabic here: https://t.co/OrWXuWkufp pic.twitter.com/tM2Ay6MkoO
— KPMG Saudi Arabia (@KPMGSaudiArabia) November 15, 2022
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has approved new requirements for customs duties and tax exemptions for duty-free shops in the arrival halls at all customs ports. These new duty-free regulations aim to enhance logistical services for duty-free shop operators at customs ports, making it easier for them to provide a seamless shopping experience for travellers. This move is expected to boost the appeal of duty-free shopping in Saudi Arabia, benefiting both operators and customers alike.
Also Read: 6 Nations, 1 Visa: GCC To Launch Schengen-Style Unified Visa By Year End!
UAE Earthquake: Residents Feel The Tremors
Image for representation
Residents in several regions of the United Arab Emirates reported feeling the effects of a minor earthquake on Friday night. The quake, occurring at 9:57 p.m. local time, registered a magnitude of 1.9 at a depth of 5 kilometres. While the earthquake was relatively small, it served as a reminder of the region’s geological activity. Authorities have reassured residents that there is no cause for concern and that such minor tremors are not uncommon.
Stay tuned for more GCC updates and safe travels!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva, Saudi Duty-Free/X