Welcome to GCC Updates, your weekly roundup of everything exciting happening across the region! From new travel routes to cultural celebrations and epic events, there’s no shortage of buzz-worthy news to keep you in the loop.
6 GCC Updates For You
1. Flydubai Takes You to Egypt’s Hidden Gem, Al Alamein
View this post on Instagram
Who needs the pyramids when you can explore Egypt’s Mediterranean magic? Starting June 21, 2025, flydubai is rolling out its first-ever direct route to Al Alamein. This seasonal service runs daily until September 7, 2025, giving summer holidaymakers a new destination to tick off their bucket lists. Taking off from Terminal 2 at Dubai International Airport, return fares start at AED 1,900 for Economy Lite. Fancy sipping champagne mid-air? Business class starts at AED 5,000. Whether you’re chasing beach vibes or historical treasures, Al Alamein promises a blend of both.
2. Green Day’s Golden Ticket Hunt! Are You Game?
View this post on Instagram
Dubai is about to go to Boulevard of Broken Dreams meets treasure hunt. The five-time Grammy-winning rock legends Green Day are performing at the Expo City Arena on January 27, 2025. But here’s the kicker! You could snag free Golden Circle tickets and a one-night stay at Rove Hotel Expo. How? It’s a city-wide treasure hunt happening on Wednesday, November 27. Follow @allthingsliveme on Instagram for clues at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Three pairs of tickets are up for grabs, but you’ll need sharp eyes and quick feet. Game on, Dubai!
3. Qatar National Day Extravaganza at Education City
View this post on Instagram
Qatar Foundation (QF) is pulling out all the stops for Qatar National Day with a three-day cultural celebration from November 28 to 30. Held at the Pre-University Education Theatre in Education City, the event promises an immersive dive into Qatari heritage, complete with family-friendly activities. Expect everything from traditional storytelling to a special screening of QF’s educational TV series, Siraj. Screenings run across three-time slots between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., and tickets are available on Q-Tickets. Gather the family and celebrate Qatar in style!
4. Emirates Adds a New Jewel to Its Fleet
We’re excited to announce our A350 daily service to Edinburgh will start from 3 January. The advancement of the scheduled service reinforces our commitment to providing customers with enhanced travel experiences. https://t.co/1ppSjp9GAg pic.twitter.com/wDuOtfEqPN
— Emirates (@emirates) November 26, 2024
Say hello to A6-EXA, Emirates’ first Airbus A350, marking the airline’s first new aircraft model since 2008. Delivered on November 25, this state-of-the-art beauty is already turning heads. The ferry flight from Toulouse to Dubai was partially powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), aligning with Emirates’ sustainability goals. After a few finishing touches at Emirates Engineering, the A350 will make its grand commercial debut in January, flying to Edinburgh and eight other destinations across the Middle East, Europe, and West Asia. Get ready for a flight experience that screams innovation and comfort.
5. Saudi Arabia’s Restaurant Franchise Frenzy Hits Record High
Franchising in Saudi Arabia is soaring faster than a desert falcon, with a whopping 866% increase in registrations since 2021. By Q3 2024, the tally hit 1,788, up from just 185 three years ago. Unsurprisingly, the accommodation and food services sector is leading the charge with 1,232 franchise registrations, followed by wholesale, retail, and transportation. It’s no coincidence this boom aligns with Saudi Arabia’s tourism and restaurant sector expansion. With opportunities aplenty, now might be the perfect time to launch that dream café in Riyadh.
6. Jet-Set For Less With A Flash Sale!
Time to take off! ✈️ Grab your seat now with our 2-day Flash Sale for unbeatable deals on Economy Class tickets to #Rome, #Milan #Bangkok or #KualaLumpur starting from 95 OMR only. T&C apply. Book your tickets on https://t.co/4GMiPjSOkH now! pic.twitter.com/2KVQXsRNlM
— Oman Air (@omanair) November 26, 2024
Love a good bargain? Oman Air’s two-day flash sale has you covered. Snag Economy Class seats to Rome, Milan, Bangkok, or Kuala Lumpur starting at just 95 OMR. Hurry, though as this offer is only valid from November 26 to 27, 2024, for travel between January 6 and March 24, 2025. Limited seats are available, and discounts exclude children and infants. So, pack light and fly smart!
Whether you’re planning your next getaway, joining a cultural fest, or chasing down concert tickets, the region is brimming with opportunities to make every moment unforgettable. Stay tuned for more GCC updates!
Cover Image Courtesy: Oman Air/X, Siraj’s/Instagram
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.First Published: November 26, 2024 5:05 PM