Whether it’s AED 10K tree fines or Japan charming the Middle East at ATM 2025, the GCC region is sizzling with real updates. We’re breaking down the five biggest updates, from policy shifts to travel shake-ups, in a way that’s quick, sharp, and makes you look smarter at dinner parties.
5 GCC Updates You’ll Actually Want To Read
1. Abu Dhabi Rolls Out Hefty Fines To Save Trees
Abu Dhabi isn’t allowing anyone to mess around with its trees anymore. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) just introduced a strict rule to protect three native tree species—Al Ghaf, Al Samar, and Al Sidr. These desert icons are now officially tagged, coded, and tracked.
So, if you’re feeling inspired by your garden shears, pause. Damaging these trees comes with a fine of Dhs10,000. Yup.
2. Qatar Airways Is Gearing Up For A Mega Jet Deal
Qatar Airways is on the brink of signing a massive deal with Boeing for 100 widebody jets, with an option for 100 more. It’s likely being timed to align with U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East tour, which includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
The expected announcement will be more than aviation deals. It could signal major regional shifts in aerospace investment.
3. Abu Dhabi’s Strawfire Is Redefining Japanese Dining With Fire
Strawfire, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental’s new dining stunner, isn’t your typical sushi and soy sauce spot. It’s fuelled by ancient Japanese Warayaki cooking, actual straw fire and led by the brilliant Chef Ross Shonhan.
Each dish is fire-kissed (literally), smoky, and oh-so-dramatic. Chef Shonhan, who was blown away by this method in Japan’s Kochi area, has built an immersive menu where theatre meets taste.
4. ICOM 2025 Dubai: Museums, Millennials And The Metaverse
Mark your calendar! Dubai will host the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) from 11–17 November 2025. This MEASA-first will attract over 4,500 global museum minds to the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Under the theme The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities, the event will dive into youth, tech, and intangible heritage. With tours across all seven emirates and a buzzing Museum Fair, it’s the future of cultural storytelling.
5. Japan Goes Big At ATM 2025 Dubai
The Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) showed up strong at ATM 2025 in Dubai. With visitor numbers from GCC countries hitting a record 44,661 in 2024, a 3.5% jump from the previous year, Japan is the new darling of Middle East travellers.
From cherry blossoms to snowboarding in Hokkaido, JNTO is marketing Japan as more than just a stopover. Expect more halal-friendly offerings, targeted campaigns, and travel experiences that tick every box, from luxury to Zen.
Also Read: From Oman’s New Payment System To Qatar’s Visa-Free Entry For Indian Tourists, 6 GCC Updates For You
Conservation is tough. Deals are big. Food is smoky. Museums are cooler than ever. And Japan? It’s coming for your next holiday plan. That’s your round-up of GCC updates, served straight to you.
Cover Image Courtesy: Qatar Airways/X, Supplied