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From Dubai Hot Air Balloon Incident To Saudi Arabia’s New Road Signs, 5 GCC Updates For You

From Primark buzz to Balloon incident, 5 GCC updates you shouldn’t miss.

by Deeplata Garde
From Dubai Hot Air Balloon Incident To Saudi Arabia’s New Road Signs, 5 GCC Updates For You

From fashion arrivals and airspace drama to artsy roads and financial fine print, the GCC never sleeps. Whether you’re a trendspotter, a thrill-seeker, or just nosy (no judgement), keep your eyes on the region because the GCC updates just keep levelling up.

5 GCC Updates You Shouldn’t Miss

1. Primark’s Finally Packing For The Gulf

 

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A post shared by Primark (@primark)

Brace yourselves, fashion lovers. The affordable fashion overlord aka Primark is finally inching closer to the Gulf. Last September, Alshaya Group informed that they’re teaming up with Primark to explore its big Middle East debut. While Dubai’s getting impatient, Kuwait will actually pop the tag first.

So yes, your dreams of scoring £2 T-shirts without a passport are becoming reality. But until Primark lands in Dubai, keep calm and window shop.

2. Man Tries to Open Plane Door Mid-Flight (Twice!)

GCC Updates
Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)

One Jordanian man decided it was a good time to test the emergency exit—while flying to Sydney. On flight D7220 from Kuala Lumpur, 45-year-old Shadi Taiseer Alsaaydeh attempted to open the exit door twice. Cabin crew leapt into action, likely channelled their inner action heroes, and got the situation under control.

He’s now facing two charges for endangering aircraft safety and one for assault. The flight landed safely. No capes required, just great crew training.

3. Saudi Arabia’s Roads Just Got a Cultural Glow-Up

Saudi’s highways are now doubling as cultural galleries. In a move that screams heritage meets highways, the Roads General Authority and Wrth Institute launched the Wrth Saudi initiative. These new signs along major roads are designed to highlight traditional Saudi crafts with a modern twist.

First up:

  • Riyadh–Dammam Road
  • Hijra Road (Makkah–Madinah)
  • Riyadh–Qassim Road

So, next time you’re road-tripping, you’ll get a mini art exhibit at 120km/h.

4. UAE Tweaks Tax Rules for Foreign Investors

The UAE just updated its tax rulebook with Cabinet Decision No. 35 of 2025. It now outlines when a non-resident investor in QIFs or REITs officially has a “nexus” in the country which means they’ll be taxed.In simpler terms:If you’re investing big money from abroad, you might owe Uncle UAE a slice of that pie. So get your financial advisor on speed dial.

Also Read:Andrew Garfield At MEFCC To Lusail Sky Festival Fireworks; 5 GCC Updates For You 

5. Dubai Hot Air Balloon Incident: What Really Happened

hot air balloon
Pic Creds: hot air balloon Dubai

A hot air balloon ride turned chaotic on March 23, but it wasn’t the horror story some international media made it out to be. Dubai Police confirmed that yes, there was a rough landing, and yes, some passengers were injured. But no deaths occurred.

The victims received immediate treatment, and all injuries ranged from minor to moderate. So if you’re planning a balloon ride, maybe just double-check the weather and the landing gear.

So, keep your feed refreshed and your curiosity on standby. 

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Image, RGA Saudi/X

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First Published: April 07, 2025 6:11 PM