From Hajj Preps For Omani Pilgrims To Ethiopian Airlines’s New Direct Flights To Hyderabad, 5 GCC Updates For You

The Middle East never sleeps, and this week proves it once again. From aviation upgrades to birthday celebrations that feature personalised chocolate bars (yes, really), here’s your round-up of five feel-good, future-facing updates from the GCC.

5 GCC Updates You Need To Know

1. Ethiopian Airlines Adds Hyderabad To Its Radar

 

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Africa’s aviation giant, Ethiopian Airlines, is adding another feather to its cap. Starting June 16, 2025, the airline will launch non-stop flights to Hyderabad, India, operating three times a week. Hyderabad is now the fifth Indian city in Ethiopian Airlines’ growing network, solidifying the carrier’s influence in Asia’s booming aviation market.

2. Sheikh Hamdan’s Twins Get A Birthday Treat From FIX Desserts

Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan, never misses a moment to charm his 17 million Instagram followers, and his latest post had all the heart-eyes. To celebrate the birthdays of his twins, Shaikha and Rashid, he shared a sweet animated video of himself playing chess with his son and strolling through a park with his daughter, Burj Khalifa twinkling in the backdrop. The next slide was of a customised version of Dubai’s viral Fix chocolate bars, in kunafa flavour. Each wrapper was uniquely designed, Shaikha’s featured butterflies and soft purple hues, while Rashid’s sported a desert scene with falcons and a rugged green Nissan Patrol.

3. Elyanna Will Serenade The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Crowd

 

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Mark December 5 in your calendar, because Elyanna is ready to set the stage on fire at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix’s After-Race Concert at Etihad Park. The Palestinian-Chilean singer has made waves with her unique sound, and she’s bringing her soulful hits, like “Ghareeb Alay”, “Mama Eh”, and her iconic Arabic cover of “La Vie en Rose” to the UAE. As part of the Yasalam concert series, her performance will add a cultural punch to one of the country’s most anticipated sporting weekends.

4. Oman Nears Full Quota For Hajj 2025

Over in Oman, 13,944 pilgrims have completed preparations to perform Hajj this year, according to the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs. Just 56 pilgrims are left to finalise their documents from the country’s 14,000-strong quota. The announcement came at a press conference this week, and with the season drawing closer, it’s clear the Sultanate is spiritually and logistically ready for this holy journey.

5. Bonjour, Riyadh! Air France Takes Off To Saudi Capital

 

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Flying from Paris to Riyadh just got easier and comfier. Air France launched its new direct flight from Charles de Gaulle to King Khalid International Airport on May 20, using its swanky Airbus A350-900. With 324 seats spread across Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins, it’s a strategic move to foster cultural and economic exchange between France and Saudi Arabia. 

Also Read: Free Mango Dessert At The Permit Room To Saudia Free Tickets For Children; 6 GCC Updates For You

That’s A Wrap!

From travel milestones to royal birthday moments and powerhouse concerts, the GCC is buzzing with updates.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images, Ethiopian Airlines/Instagram