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From Dubai’s NYE Free Parking To Qatar’s New Digital Service, 6 GCC Updates For You

From Airport Announcements to Sky Pools, 6 GCC Updates for You

by Deeplata Garde
From Dubai’s NYE Free Parking To Qatar’s New Digital Service, 6 GCC Updates For You

The GCC never disappoints when it comes to keeping us on our toes with updates! From flight dramas to futuristic skyscrapers, here’s your rundown of the latest and greatest happening across the region. Grab your coffee (or something stronger, if that’s your vibe), and let’s dive in!

6 GCC Updates for You

1. Ring In The New Year With Free Parking In Dubai

parking
credits: Canva

Here’s a little New Year’s gift from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)  all public parking will be free on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in celebration of the holiday. This freebie, however, doesn’t apply to multi-storey parking, so keep an eye out for those. Normal paid parking services will kick off again on Thursday, January 2, 2025. So, if you’re planning on ringing in the New Year with some extra space for your car (and less stress on your wallet), you’re in luck!

2. Air Arabia Takes You To Russia, Non-Stop!

 

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A post shared by Air Arabia (@airarabiagroup)

Get your bags packed, because Air Arabia has just launched a new flight route that might just become your next adventure! The budget-friendly airline now offers a non-stop service from Abu Dhabi to Yekaterinburg, Russia. Twice a week, you’ll be able to jet off directly to Koltsovo International Airport in Yekaterinburg, making it easier than ever to explore Russia. Whether you’re into snowy landscapes or vodka tasting, this new route is your passport to Eastern Europe.

3. Dubai’s Skyscraper Innovation: A Sky Pool Between Towers

 

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A post shared by Sankari (@sankari.official)

If you thought Dubai couldn’t get any cooler, think again! Architecture firm Foster + Partners is creating something out of this world, literally. The Regent Residences Dubai, a pair of 180-meter-tall towers, will be connected by a sky pool at the penthouse level. Talk about luxury! The apartments will boast 360-degree views of everything that matters: Burj Khalifa, sunsets, sunrises, you name it.

Also Read: From Harry Potter Dishes At Riyadh To Hussain Al Jassmi Concert At Global Village; 6 GCC Updates For You

4. 2025 Public Holiday For Dubai Government Employees

And here’s something to look forward to: Dubai’s public sector workers are getting a New Year’s Day holiday in 2025. The Government Human Resources Department finally announced January 1st as a holiday for all public sector employees. So, if you work for the Dubai government, enjoy your well-deserved break, and get ready to resume your work on January 2nd. Time to plan that hangover recovery day!

5. Qatar’s New Digital Service: Document Attestation Made Easy

In case you’re dealing with paperwork (who isn’t, right?), Qatar has just made it way easier. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched an online document attestation service, so you can get your paperwork sorted from the comfort of your couch, no matter where you are in the world. The initiative is part of Qatar’s commitment to the digital future. If you’re a jobseeker needing documents verified overseas, this new service is about to make your life a whole lot simpler.

6. Air Arabia’s Mid-Air Drama: Emergency Landing Edition

 

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A post shared by Air Arabia (@airarabiagroup)

Here’s a plot twist for you, Air Arabia had to make an emergency landing earlier this week after a mechanical malfunction in one of its flights. The plane, which had just taken off from Chennai with 168 passengers, had to make a return to the airport after about 30 minutes in the air. Luckily, the pilot took swift action, and the flight safely touched down. Passengers were evacuated and even got some chill time in the airport lounges while the aircraft was fixed. It was a tense few hours, but hey, at least everyone’s safe, right?

And there you have it, folks! Whether you’re planning your New Year’s festivities or dreaming of a swim between skyscrapers, the GCC is full of updates that keep things exciting. Stay tuned for more buzz, and make sure to keep your holiday plans in check!

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images

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First Published: December 28, 2024 4:02 PM