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From Fake QR Codes In Dubai To Qatar’s Weather Change, 5 GCC Updates

This week’s GCC updates cover a wide mix of developments across the region.

by Deeplata Garde
From Fake QR Codes In Dubai To Qatar’s Weather Change, 5 GCC Updates

From parking scams on Dubai’s streets to a silver bar so massive it earned a Guinness World Record, the region is buzzing with news. We are here with a snapshot of GCC updates that never really slow down.

5 GCC Updates For You

1. Dubai QR Code Parking Scams Trigger Fresh Warning

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, alongside Parkin, has issued a clear message, as mentioned in a report by Gulf News. Motorists need to stop scanning random QR codes on parking signposts. Several unauthorised codes have popped up across the city, and officials say they can redirect users to unsafe websites or even enable fraud. Authorities have also urged residents to report suspicious signage through official channels. 

2. The World’s Largest Silver Bar With Guinness World Record Belongs To Dubai

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre has added another award to its shelf. The world’s largest silver bar now officially belongs to Dubai, with Guinness World Records confirming the title as per Scene UAE.

The bar weighs a staggering 1,971 kilograms and was refined in the UAE by Sam Precious Metals. It contains 63,369 troy ounces of 999.9-purity silver and made its public debut at the Dubai Precious Metals Conference. The bar will be stored securely by Brink’s in Dubai and tokenised through Tokinvest.

3. Haribo Brings Its Happy World To Dubai

Haribo has officially entered the UAE experience space with its renowned treats. The brand has launched Haribo Happy World at Dubai Festival City, marking its first immersive attraction in the region, according to UAE Insider.

Designed as a multi-sensory experience, the venue celebrates Haribo’s 100-year legacy with interactive zones, a café serving themed treats, and a retail area packed with exclusives. Also, visitors get to celebrate in a birthday room built for sugar-fuelled celebrations. 

4. New Air Link Connects Dubai And Riga

flydubai has launched direct flights to Riga, Latvia, with its new route operating three times a week between Dubai International Airport and Riga Airport, as mentioned in a report by Gulf Today.

Airport officials welcomed the inaugural flight, calling it a boost for tourism and business ties between the UAE and Latvia. For travellers, the route offers easier access to Dubai’s global connections while opening the Baltics to the Middle East market.

Also Read: From DSF Drone Show In Dubai To Rainfall Alert In Qatar, 5 GCC Updates For You

5. Qatar Sees Stormy Start To The Week

Parts of Qatar woke up to lightning, thunder, and rainfall early on December 14, as per Peninsula Qatar. Doha recorded light rain, while Mesaieed, Al Shahaniyah, and Al Shehaimiya saw temperatures dip to 15°C. Doha is around 18°C.

The Qatar Meteorology Department warned that rain of varying intensity and sudden strong winds could continue through the week. Residents have been urged to stay cautious.

So here are the GCC Updates that can help you stay alert about the region. 

Cover Image Courtesy: Dubai RTA, Qatar Weather/X

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First Published: December 14, 2025 7:40 PM