If your group chat’s been too quiet lately, here’s your excuse to revive it. From iconic museum reveals and DJ-packed concerts to sweaty yoga stretches and sweet IKEA discounts, a lot is happening across the GCC. We’ve rounded up five fresh GCC updates you’ll want to know, whether you’re a culture buff, a gamer, or just someone looking for a good wardrobe deal. Yalla, let’s get into it!
From Guggenheim To Gaming, 5 GCC Updates Heating Up the UAE & KSA
1. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Set To Finally Open In 2025
Saadiyat Island’s about to become the region’s ultimate art flex. Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is all set to officially open in 2025. Set to be the largest Guggenheim in the world, this museum will have 42,000 square metres and views of the Arabian Gulf. Expect a blend of regional and global contemporary art, all inside a climate-responsive structure.
2. Yoga & Sania Mirza Took Over ADNEC
Namaste, Abu Dhabi! The 11th International Day of Yoga was celebrated in full force at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), and it was anything but low-key. Organised by the Indian Embassy in partnership with Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the event drew yoga lovers from all walks of life. UAE’s Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan Mabarak Al Nahayan showed up as chief guest, joined by Indian tennis icon Sania Mirza and Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” also tied beautifully into the UAE’s Year of the Community initiative.
3. Alesso, Post Malone & Tina Guo Headline Esports World Cup Concert
Gamers, rejoice, Saudi Arabia is once again hosting the world’s biggest gaming showdown. The Esports World Cup returns to Riyadh this summer, and it’s not just about joysticks and kill streaks. The festival-style opening ceremony on July 10 is pulling out the big guns: Swedish DJ Alesso, Post Malone, and cellist Tina Guo will be taking over the stage. Seven weeks of non-stop competitive gaming, live music, and high-stakes drama.
4. Dubai Mall Metro Station’s Getting A Big Glow-Up
Tired of finding your way through Burj Khalifa-Dubai Mall Metro Station during peak hours? The A new expansion project in collaboration with Emaar will bump up the station’s size from 6,700 to 8,500 sqm, increasing its hourly passenger capacity from 7,250 to a whopping 12,320. That’s nearly 220,000 commuters daily. Whether you’re headed to The Dubai Mall for dinner or fireworks, you’re about to get a smoother ride.
Also Read: UAE & GCC Expats Can Now Apply For A 1-Year Multiple-Entry Saudi eVisa; Here’s How!
5. IKEA UAE’s Storage Sale Is Here
Forget window shopping. IKEA UAE just dropped a 50% off sale on wardrobes, chests of drawers, and shoe cabinets across all stores and online until July 6. And if you’re an IKEA Family member, you’ll earn 10% cashback on top. Whether you’re decluttering or just want to make room for impulse buys, this sale is peak “treat yourself” energy. Run, don’t walk.
Stay tuned, stay hydrated, and make the most of the of experiences heading your way. So that’s all about today’s GCC Updates.
Cover Image Courtesy: DJ Alesso/Instagram, Department Of Culture and Tourism/ Website