From unexpected holidays to cutting-edge delivery robots, here’s your weekly dose of all the latest updates from the GCC! Whether you’re a shopaholic, a motorsports fan, or just here for the celebrity sightings, we’ve got all the must-know updates right here.
5 GCC Updates You Need To Know
1. Extra Holidays For Students And Teachers In Jeddah, Makkah, And Taif
وزارة التعليم تُقرر منح طلاب جدة، مكة، الطائف إجازة لمدة يومين 20-21 أبريل 2025م تزامناً مع بطولة الفورمولا1
احجزوا تذاكركم الآن! 🎟️🔥#فورمولا1_في_السعودية pic.twitter.com/Ihz0jDAQ4z
— Saudi Arabian GP (@SaudiArabianGP) March 19, 2025
Great news for students (and an even bigger win for teachers)! The Ministry of Education has declared a two-day holiday on April 20 and April 21, 2025, for Jeddah, Makkah, and Taif. The extended break comes in support of the Formula 1 race in Jeddah, a key event in the Jeddah Season festivities. So, whether you’re a racing fan or just excited about the time off, mark your calendars for this well-timed break!
2. Grocery Deliveries Get A High-Tech Upgrade In Dubai
The future of grocery shopping has arrived! Yango Group has teamed up with food tech and retail company ROOTS to introduce autonomous delivery robots in Dubai’s Sobha Hartland district. Launching today, these AI-powered bots will deliver orders within a two-kilometre radius in under 30 minutes. Equipped with high-precision mapping and neural networks, these robots can detect traffic lights, road signs, and obstacles with ease. This marks a significant step in Dubai’s smart city initiatives, making grocery runs quicker and more convenient than ever.
3. Dubai’s Great Online Sale Returns With Up To 95% Discounts
Bargain hunters, get ready! The third edition of the ‘Great Online Sale,’ organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), is making a grand comeback from March 27-30, 2025. This year, shoppers can expect up to 95% discounts and an extra day of savings. But that’s not all—this year’s event introduces an immersive virtual shopping experience. Shoppers can digitally browse top brands, unlock exclusive discount coupons, and even win cash prizes, including a grand reward of Dh 100,000 and additional bonuses up to Dh 50,000. Time to add some digital retail therapy to your calendar!
4. Allu Arjun Spotted At Baps Hindu Mandir In Abu Dhabi
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Fans in Dubai recently caught a glimpse of Tollywood superstar Allu Arjun, and it seems like the actor made a spiritual stop during his visit. The ‘Pushpa’ star paid a visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, following in the footsteps of Rajinikanth and Chiranjeevi. The temple authorities even shared a video of his visit on Instagram, making fans swoon over his humble presence. Looks like Abu Dhabi’s latest landmark is becoming a must-visit destination for celebrities!
Also Read: Air France Resuming Flights To Riyadh To Restaurants Closing In Sharjah; 5 GCC Updates For You
5. Dubai Cracks Down On Job Seekers Working On Visit Visas
If you’re in Dubai on a visit visa and job hunting, take note—authorities are tightening their grip on illegal employment. According to Arab media reports, stricter monitoring is on the way, and deportation is likely for those caught working without the proper permits. Authorities are set to crack down on foreign nationals overstaying their visas and travel agents facilitating these practices. While working on a visit visa has been common, Dubai is reinforcing its labour regulations to maintain a well-regulated job market. If you’re planning to work in Dubai, securing the right employment visa is now more crucial than ever!
From long weekends to massive discounts and celebrity temple visits, that’s a wrap on this week’s GCC updates!
Cover Image Courtesy: BAPS Hindu Mandir/Instagram, Saudi Eventos/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. First Published: March 24, 2025 5:40 PM