From Rajinikanth’s Dubai celebration to Tsitsipas’ kandura makeover, the GCC packed in plenty of updates and action this week. Whether you’re following Ramadan preparations, school updates, or the latest from the tennis court, these stories prove one thing, the region never runs out of surprises.
5 GCC Updates You Need To Know
1. Superstar Rajinikanth Spotted In Dubai For A Special Celebration
When it comes to living legends, Rajinikanth takes the crown or at least the sunglasses flip. The superstar and his wife, Latha, landed in Dubai to celebrate their 44th wedding anniversary. Fans at Dubai Airport didn’t just spot him they grabbed selfies faster than you can say “Thalaiva!”
Rajinikanth hit pause on his busy shooting schedule for Coolie to spend quality time with his better half. While his movies usually break box office records, this time, the internet broke instead, with viral photos of the happy couple flooding social media. Who needs a film release when your airport stroll makes headlines?
2. UAE Schools To Go Online On Fridays During Ramadan
In true UAE fashion where innovation meets practicality the Ministry of Education announced that public school students will switch to remote learning every Friday during Ramadan. But there’s a twist: if students have Friday exams, they still need to show up in person.
Parents who prefer the old-school vibe (pun intended) can still send their kids to class on Fridays but they’ll need to handle transport themselves. Think of it as educational meal-prepping: customise the week’s learning plan to fit your schedule, whether it’s at home in PJs or at school with your mates.
3. Inclusivity Takes Centre Court At Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
Tennis isn’t just about serves and volleys, it’s about smashing barriers too. The People of Determination Day at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships served up serious inspiration. Over 130 participants from schools and training centres across Dubai took to the courts, proving that sport belongs to everyone.
With passionate coaches, buzzing volunteers, and a surprise visit from Indian doubles ace Yuki Bhambri, the energy levels skyrocketed. Bhambri, fresh off his doubles win with Aussie Alexei Popyrin, spent time rallying with the young players before posing for some feel-good photos. It wasn’t just a game; it was a moment to celebrate community, determination, and the pure joy of play.
4. Stefanos Tsitsipas Swaps His Tennis Whites For An Emirati Kandura
World No. 11 Stefanos Tsitsipas didn’t just arrive for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, he arrived in style. In a delightful culture swap, the Greek tennis star paid a visit to Bait Al Kandora, one of the UAE’s top kandura tailors, for a custom-fitting session. Known for his love of travel and curiosity about local traditions, Tsitsipas embraced the experience, stepping into a world of flowing fabrics and expert tailoring. He might be chasing the trophy on the court, but off-court, he’s winning hearts one kandura stitch at a time.
5. Saudi Arabia Prepares For Ramadan Moon Sighting
Across the border in Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court issued a formal call for moon-sighting enthusiasts to keep their eyes peeled on February 28. If the crescent moon makes its appearance after Maghrib prayers, Ramadan kicks off on March 1. If the sky stays stubbornly clear, the holy month will start on March 2.
Whether you rely on telescopes, binoculars, or just good old-fashioned sky-gazing, the countdown to Ramadan 2025 has officially begun. Dust off your iftar menus and stock up on dates, the holy month is almost here.
Stay tuned, because next week’s updates might just outdo this one.
Cover Image Courtesy: RajniFollowers /X, Supplied
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.