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From Etihad Airways’s New Route To Peshawar To Katy Perry’s Concert In Abu Dhabi, 7 GCC Updates For You

Cash recovered, deals struck, flights launched, and yes, Katy Perry is coming.

by Deeplata Garde
From Etihad Airways’s New Route To Peshawar To Katy Perry’s Concert In Abu Dhabi, 7 GCC Updates For You

This week’s updates cycle in the GCC wasn’t just ticking boxes. It delivered feel-good wins, serious business, and a sprinkle of celebrity sparkle. Let’s unpack everything from heart-stopping airport drama to beachfront bliss and a certain pop diva’s upcoming gig.

7 GCC Stories You Should Know This Week

1. Dubai Police Reunite Travellers with AED102K in 30 Minutes

GCC Updates
Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Let’s start with a thriller, minus the soundtrack. Two Kuwaiti brothers, on their way home for a funeral, accidentally left behind a bag at DXB’s Terminal 1. No biggie, except it had AED102,000 and their passports inside. Already buckled in for take-off, they couldn’t do much. So they rang their sister, who rushed to report the missing bag.

Within just 30 minutes, Dubai Police located the bag, followed all legal formalities, and handed it back to the sister. And just like that, crisis averted. No chaos, no tears—just sharp response and a very relieved family.

2. Dubai’s Second Indian Office Lands in Bengaluru

Meanwhile, Sheikh Hamdan turned heads in Mumbai during a high-level business summit where the Dubai Chamber announced something big. They’re opening a second representative office in India, this time in Bengaluru. The aim? To boost ties with the ever-growing Indian market. The first office launched in Mumbai back in 2018, but now with Bengaluru in the mix, Dubai is clearly doubling down on cross-border collaborations.

3. Etihad Sets Course for Peshawar

Etihad Airways has added another stamp to its travel book. Starting 29 September 2025, the airline will launch direct flights between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport and Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar. This new route makes Peshawar the fourth Pakistani city on Etihad’s radar, joining Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. The airline will initially operate five flights per week using its modern Airbus A320s, before switching to daily flights from 22 November.

4. Chouchou’s Ladies’ Day Is Fancy But Friendly

 

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A post shared by CHOUCHOU (@chouchou.dubai)

J1 Beach’s glow-up brought with it a lineup of swanky beach venues, but Chouchou is the showstopper. This two-storey French beach house, usually open to members who pay a hefty Dhs15,500 a year, now offers a cheeky ladies’ day deal. Non-members can access a two-course lunch, plus all-day beach and pool access, for just Dhs165. Want dessert? Make it three courses for Dhs195. Très chic and just a touch indulgent.

5. Armenia to Open Embassy In Oman

In Muscat, diplomacy just got an upgrade. Armenia’s government approved the launch of a brand-new embassy in Oman. The move signals stronger ties in areas like education, tourism, cargo, culture, and IT. Both countries have been warming up relations, and this embassy marks a turning point in future cooperation.

6. Sigala To Light Up Barasti Beach

 

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A post shared by Barasti Beach (@barastibeach)

Hold onto your sunnies, British DJ Sigala is set to hit Dubai on 2 May 2025. He’ll take over Barasti Beach for one euphoric night filled with Balearic beats, beachside dancing, and hits like Sweet Lovin’ and Easy Love. With sunset grooves, festival energy, and a beachfront vibe, this will be Ibiza-meets-Dubai in the best way. Doors open at 6 pm, with general entry from Dhs75. Want more sparkle? Dhs295 scores you unlimited drinks and food from 9 pm to midnight.

Also Read: From Qatar Airways’s Lightning-Fast Wi-Fi To Abu Dhabi’s Ban On Balcony Storage, 5 GCC Updates For You

7. Katy Perry To Close Abu Dhabi Grand Prix In Style

 

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A post shared by KATY PERRY (@katyperry)

And now, the grand finale. Global pop icon Katy Perry will headline the race-day concert at the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on 7 December 2025. Held at Etihad Park, the concert wraps up an already electric race weekend. Fans can expect hit after hit—from Teenage Dream to Roar. With past headliners like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Paul McCartney, Katy’s slot is pure fire.

One Region, All the Action

Whether it’s quick police action, deeper diplomatic ties, or pop royalty on stage, the GCC updates never keeps it boring. This week proves the region isn’t just evolving, it’s entertaining, empowering, and always a step ahead. Check back next week because who knows what headlines will drop next?

Cover Image Courtesy: Etihad Airways, Katy Perry/Instagram

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First Published: April 10, 2025 5:55 PM