From Abu Dhabi Restaurant Closures To RAK’s Tourism Excellence Awards, 5 GCC Updates For You

From blazing cars to blazing success in tourism, the UAE had quite the week. There were fire alarms (literally), celebratory awards, a digital leap, some grounded eateries, and a renewed airline romance. Let’s unpack the GCC updates and what went down with it.

5 GCC Updates Making Headlines This Week

1. SUV Catches Fire In Dubai

On Saturday afternoon, an SUV parked at the arrivals section of Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1 caught fire. Thankfully, no one was hurt. Airport authorities sprang into action with handheld extinguishers and doused the blaze before it could escalate. The incident took place at the ground-level parking area and, fortunately, didn’t affect any other vehicles. 

2. Emirates & Air Mauritius Reunite To Strengthen Ties Post 23 Years

 

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After 23 years of flying high together, Emirates and Air Mauritius have decided to renew their agreements. The two carriers have extended their partnership with a reciprocal codeshare agreement. What does that mean? Flyers can now enjoy better connectivity across select routes beyond the main gateways, plus shared frequent flyer perks and coordinated cargo operations. Emirates flights already contribute an impressive $900 million annually to Mauritius.

3. Tamm, Abu Dhabi’s Super App Goes Global

What’s more exciting than checking everything off your to-do list in one app? Abu Dhabi’s Tamm, the AI-powered super app, is now eyeing the world stage. Designed by the Department of Government Enablement, it bundles over 1,000 public and private services into one sleek interface. Residents can manage everything from car registration to healthcare, housing, and police services without breaking a sweat. And now, they’re aiming to share this efficiency magic globally. 

4. Ras Al Khaimah Shines At The First-Ever Tourism Excellence Awards

Cue the applause. Ras Al Khaimah celebrated its inaugural Tourism Excellence Awards on May 21 at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island. The night honoured top performers across six categories, including Hospitality Leadership, Culinary Artistry, and Environmental Responsibility. The event brought together trailblazers from the emirate’s hospitality sector, giving credit where it’s truly due

5. Three Abu Dhabi Food Spots Shut Down

And now for a less appetising bit. Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has shut down three food establishments due to repeated safety violations. The offenders? Chettinadu Multi-Cuisine Restaurant in the capital, Nasaem Al Nile Pastries and Sweets in Al Ain, and Diamond City Supermarket in Mussafah. These closures will stay in place until the issues are resolved. ADAFSA means business, and it’s clear that food safety isn’t negotiable.

Also Read: From Saudia Offer On Flights To Art Basel In Qatar; 5 GCC Updates For You

Final Thoughts

This week in the UAE delivered a lot of GCC Updates, from flaming SUVs to five-star apps, culinary crackdowns to travel partnerships with a tropical twist. Stay cool, stay informed, and maybe park in the shade.

Cover Image Courtesy: Adfsa/Instagram, RAK Tourism Development Authority/LinkedIn