From Dubai’s enhanced road access to Al Jaddaf, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious fleet expansion, and Qatar’s record visitor numbers, the region is buzzing with innovation and modernisation. So, buckle up and join the journey through the hottest news in infrastructure, aviation, and entertainment across the GCC with these exciting updates!
6 GCC Updates For You
1. RTA’s Mission For Less Traffic, More Life With Al Jaddaf’s Roadway Revamp
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is tackling the city’s growing population and development boom head-on, by adding lanes to four key access points to Al Jaddaf. The move aims to reduce congestion, ensuring seamless connectivity for residents and visitors. By improving traffic flow, RTA is turning Dubai’s road network into a smoother, more efficient experience for all.
2. Riyadh Air Expands Fleet With 132 Flights
Saudi Arabia’s skies are getting busier as the national carrier expands its fleet to 132 state-of-the-art aircraft by 2030. Each plane boasts premium cabins and the latest technology, offering travellers an unparalleled experience infused with Saudi hospitality. With plans to reach over 100 destinations, this expansion promises to elevate Saudi aviation to a global standard.
3. Emirates And Spotify Introduce Podcasts And Playlists At 35,000 Feet
Emirates has partnered with Spotify, bringing a wealth of music, podcasts, and playlists to passengers’ in-seat screens. As of now, travellers to 140 destinations can enjoy this audio upgrade on Emirates’ inflight system, ICE. Now, every journey can have a soundtrack as unique as the destination, from upbeat playlists to in-depth podcasts.
4. Boxing Royale: Fury vs Usyk Takes Centre Stage In Riyadh
Riyadh Season’s grand finale will see a massive boxing showdown between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury. Hosted at Kingdom Arena on December 21, this clash promises a night of high-stakes excitement for fans across the region. With other major bouts featuring fighters from around the globe, the event will offer an unforgettable experience for boxing fans.
Event Details
Where: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh
When: December 21
5. Sephora’s Beauty Wonderland Comes To Dubai
Beauty buffs flocked to Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena for Sephora’s largest event of the year. The three-day affair transformed the arena into an interactive funhouse, teeming with the industry’s top brands. It was an Instagrammable haven of style, trends, and all things beauty, delivering a day out that was as visually stunning as it was inspiring.
Event Highlights
Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Cost: From AED 250
Also Read: From Thai Select Festival In Dubai To New Income Tax Rule In Oman, 6 GCC Updates For You
6. Qatar Welcomes Record-Breaking 4 Million Visitors By October End
Qatar’s visitor numbers surged to an all-time high by October 2024, matching the total count for 2023 and showing a 26% rise in international arrivals. With GCC nationals comprising a significant portion of visitors, Qatar’s tourism sector looks set to break even more records this winter season, thanks to the region’s festive allure and activity-packed agenda.
Whether on the ground, in the skies, or in epic arenas, GCC’s latest updates showcase an unmatched blend of innovation and vision. Stay tuned for more exciting developments, as the GCC is only just warming up!
Cover Image Courtesy: Riyadh Air/X, Sephora Middle East/Instagram