The festive season is here, and with it comes a whirlwind of travel, shopping, and exciting events. From skyrocketing airfares to unmissable shopping festivals, a lot is happening across the GCC that you won’t want to miss. Here’s a quick rundown of the latest updates from the GCC that will shape your end-of-year plans!
6 GCC Updates For You
1. Skyrocketing Airfares To Dubai
With Christmas and New Year’s Eve just around the corner, flight prices to Dubai have gone through the roof. In fact, airfares to the city have nearly doubled, making it a dream destination only for those with deep pockets. A four-day package to Dubai that usually costs Rs 60,000 is now priced at a whopping Rs 1.1 lakh. And it’s not just Dubai, other popular tourist destinations have seen ticket prices surge by 40 to 50%. So, unless you’re willing to part with a small fortune, you might want to rethink that spontaneous holiday to the Emirates.
2. Qatar Airways Celebrates National Day With A Touch Of Class
Qatar Airways went all out for Qatar National Day celebrations, making a grand statement at the National Building Museum in Washington D.C. The airline showcased its cutting-edge AI Adventure campaign, giving guests a taste of the future of air travel with its Qverse product, the world’s best business class experience. But the fun didn’t stop there, Qatar Airways also raffled off two business-class tickets to Doha. Lucky winners will get to experience world-class service in Qatar Airways’ luxurious cabins
3. UAE’s New Cultural Initiative Promotes Pride And Heritage
In a bid to promote national pride and preserve Emirati traditions, the UAE has launched the Authentic Identity and Sustainable Heritage initiative. The programme, which aims to connect students with Emirati heritage while promoting cultural and social sustainability, is in line with the UAE’s broader vision to protect its rich history for future generations. Ali Bin Shamil Al Kaabi, an expert at the Mohammed bin Zayed University for Humanities, emphasized how this initiative helps nurture an understanding of the profound meanings behind Emirati heritage, ensuring that the culture remains vibrant for years to come
4. Shop Qatar 2025, Your Ultimate Retail Therapy Experience
Get ready to shop till you drop at Shop Qatar 2025, the country’s biggest shopping festival! Set to run from January 1 to February 1, this month-long extravaganza promises unbeatable deals, exciting live shows, family-friendly entertainment, and a ton of interactive activations. Expect raffles with prizes ranging from cash to brand-new cars! Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion or unique souvenirs, Shop Qatar has you covered
5. Wonder Garden, A Festive Family Fun Deal in Riyadh
Looking for a fun, budget-friendly way to celebrate the season in Saudi Arabia? Don’t miss the chance to visit Wonder Garden at Riyadh Season, where you can buy two tickets and get the third one for free! If you’re looking for a family outing, this deal is practically begging you to round up the crew for a day of adventures.
6. Air France-KLM Expands Middle East & India Routes
The Air France-KLM Group is making big moves with an aggressive expansion plan from the Middle East and India. New direct flight services are rolling out from Saudi Arabia and India, including two new routes by Transavia France from Jeddah to Paris-Orly and Lyon. Plus, Air France will soon be launching direct flights from Riyadh to Paris in the summer of 2025, and KLM will offer direct services from Hyderabad to Amsterdam starting in September 2025
The GCC is buzzing with exciting updates as we head into the festive season. The end of the year is shaping up to be one unforgettable ride!
Cover Image Courtesy: Qatar Airways/X, Visit Saudi Arabia/Website