From Qatar Airways’s FIFA World Cup Packages To Careem’s Concert Rides In Abu Dhabi, 5 GCC Updates For You

The GCC is a hotbed of thrilling updates and news that will keep you on your toes. From Apple’s new updates in Dubai to the sounds of Limp Bizkit rocking Abu Dhabi, there’s no shortage of excitement. In this quick roundup, we’ve got everything from tech advancements to entertainment events, so let’s dive in!

5 Your GCC Updates For Today

1. Apple Maps Update: Lidar Surveys Across Dubai

Apple’s making some major moves in Dubai with its latest efforts to improve its Maps app. The tech giant has rolled out a ground survey operation using Lidar-equipped vehicles. This survey will continue until June 30, 2025, and it’s all part of a larger revamp to make Apple Maps a lot more accurate for UAE users. Dubai residents can expect a sharper, more detailed navigation experience soon.

So, which parts of Dubai are getting the Lidar treatment? Well, the surveys are spread across several key locations, with the Dubai Marina being the star of the show. Other notable areas being scanned include the iconic Burj Al Arab, the stylish Madinat Jumeirah, Al Safa Park Complex, Al Habtoor City, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), and parts of Oud Metha. If you’ve got a favourite corner of the city, it might be on Apple’s radar.

2. Dubai Fountain Closure Comes With Rent Relief For Affected Restaurants

The Dubai Fountain is taking a break for some much-needed upgrades. The renovation project will keep the fountain closed for five months. But here’s the twist: restaurants and cafes located around the Dubai Fountain area, including those at Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar, are getting some rent relief to make up for the temporary dip in foot traffic.

Emaar Malls Management has announced a four-month rent relief for around 50 food and beverage outlets affected by the closure. The rent relief is designed to ease the financial burden and keep these spots afloat while the fountain gets its makeover.

3. Limp Bizkit Rocks Abu Dhabi

 

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Get ready to roll and break stuff because Limp Bizkit is hitting Abu Dhabi! The Nu Metal legends are set to perform at the Etihad Arena on August 12, 2025. Known for their anthems like “Rollin’,” “Break Stuff,” and “Nookie,” Limp Bizkit defined an era of rock and roll in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Frontman Fred Durst and the gang are bringing their electrifying show to the UAE, and it’s going to be an unforgettable night.

4. Careem’s ‘Concert Rides’ For Abu Dhabi Festival-Goers

Planning to head to Abu Dhabi for one of the many upcoming concerts? Careem has you covered with its newly relaunched ‘Concert Rides’ service. Whether you’re catching Limp Bizkit or attending another music fest, this service lets you pre-book a comfortable, round-trip ride between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The service is designed for festival-goers who want to travel in style and convenience.

You can choose between a “Comfort Ride” for four passengers at AED 749 or a “Max” vehicle for up to six people at AED 849. Both options come with a dedicated Captain (aka driver) for up to 8 hours or 360 kilometres.

5. Qatar Airways FIFA World Cup Travel Packages

Be the first to secure your seat at the @FIFAWorldCup 2026 with the all-in-one travel packages by @QRHolidays!

Registration is now open.
Visit https://t.co/fy83LrvpuM and register your interest to get notified once the packages are available.

For more information:… pic.twitter.com/tsdujfiTev

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) April 22, 2025

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Qatar Airways Holidays is offering travel packages for the tournament, which will take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The 48-team tournament will feature more than 100 matches, and Qatar Airways, the official airline partner of FIFA, is rolling out exclusive travel packages to help fans get there.

These packages include flights, transfers, hotel stays at four- and five-star accommodations, stadium transfers, and, of course, match tickets The packages will be launched in phases, so keep an eye out for updates!

Also Read: From Riyadh’s 2 New Metro Stations To Surge In Pistachio Spread In UAE, 6 GCC Updates For You

Conclusion

From cutting-edge tech updates with Apple to concerts with international rock bands, the GCC is buzzing with updates. Watch this space for more updates, and make sure you’re part of the action!

Cover Image Courtesy: Qatar Airways/Website, Canva