Let’s dive into this week’s round-up of GCC news, from thoughtful gestures to major travel updates and some shiny coins in between. You know how it goes, and it’s all happening here!
5 GCC Updates You’ll Want To Know
1. Dubai Airport Hosts Special Travel Experience For Kids With Autism
We all know airports can be hectic, right? But for children with autism, the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming. That’s exactly why Dubai Airports, along with Al Jalila Foundation’s Ta’alouf Programme, stepped in with something truly heart-warming, a special guided travel simulation at DXB Airport, just ahead of the busy summer travel season
The goal? To boost confidence and help children on the autism spectrum and their families feel prepared for future trips. The little ones got to walk through every step, check-in, security, and boarding, all in a calm, stress-free space. It wasn’t about rushing; it was about building confidence and showing families that future trips can be smooth and stress-free.
2. Emirates Launches Daily Flights To Shenzhen, China
Shenzhen has officially joined Emirates’ growing list of East Asian destinations! The daily service from Dubai kicked off on 1 July, marking the city as the first in mainland China to welcome Emirates’ upgraded Boeing 777-300ER with fancy cabin interiors and Premium Economy seats.
Flight EK328 touched down at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, and it wasn’t your average landing. There were VIP guests, media, and the full red carpet treatment. With this new route, Emirates now flies to four cities in mainland China, making it even easier for UAE travellers to connect for business or sneak in a little leisure trip.
3. Al Ain Cemeteries Get Portable ACs To Comfort Mourners
With UAE temperatures soaring to a sizzling 50°C, Al Ain City Municipality is stepping up to ease the heat. They’ve set up portable air conditioners at major cemeteries like Al Sarooj, giving mourners some much-needed relief during funeral prayers.
It’s a simple but thoughtful gesture, because even in tough moments, no one should have to battle that brutal summer heat. This comes alongside other safety steps like shaded spots and mandatory rest breaks across the city, because even during tough moments, comfort matters.
4. UAE Issues Commemorative Coins For Founding Leaders
Collectors, take note! The UAE Central Bank has dropped some seriously stunning gold and silver coins to honour the nation’s founding fathers — Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
The gold coin weighs 40g, with the two iconic leaders on one side and the UAE’s national emblem with the Central Bank logo on the other. A fitting, classy tribute to the visionaries who laid the foundation for the UAE we know today.
Also Read: From Oman’s e-Voicing For Tax Payments To Saudi’s Dust Storms, 5 GCC Updates For You
5. Emirates Signs On As Official Partner For Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
Rugby fans, listen up! Emirates has signed on as an Official Partner of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, happening in England from 22 August. The airline will also sponsor World Rugby Match Officials, supporting the growth of women officials in top competitions. Expect to see the iconic Emirates Fly Better kit worn across all matches, showing the airline’s ongoing push to elevate women’s sports.
That’s your fix for the GCC Updates today.
Cover Image Courtesy: UAE Forsan/X, Dubai Airport News/Website