Whether you’re living in the UAE, planning to visit, or simply keeping tabs on the region’s latest happenings, there’s no shortage of exciting updates that keep the GCC region buzzing. From new laws to lively festivals and cutting-edge transport systems, here are 6 newsworthy updates that’ll have you tuning in to what’s new in the GCC.
GCC Updates You Need To Know Right Now
1. Abu Dhabi’s New Fine System for Liquid Waste Disposal
Abu Dhabi’s latest crackdown on liquid waste disposal is clear, concise, and very expensive. The Abu Dhabi City Municipality has introduced a set of fines aimed at curbing improper liquid waste dumping, because let’s face it, nobody wants unexpected mini-lakes on the pavement.
Here’s how the fines break down under Clause No. 35 of Law No. 2 of 2012:
- First-time offenders: AED1,000
- Second-time offenders: AED2,000
- Repeat offenders: A whopping AED4,000
It’s not just about illegal wastewater disposal; anything from unapproved AC drainage spilling over public walkways to more severe cases of waste dumping will now cost you. So, save your dirhams and dispose of liquids properly, your wallet will thank you.
2. Design & Dine Brings Coachella Vibes to Abu Dhabi: Sip, Paint, and Dance!
Get ready to unleash your inner festival-goer at the UAE’s ultimate “art-meets-party” event, Design & Dine’s Coachella-themed sip and paint session in Abu Dhabi. Taking place on May 16, this event promises a dose of boho magic and creativity all in one.
Expect two hours of unlimited drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), gourmet street food, and a crowd that’s part brunch crew, part raving party. The event features live DJ sets that’ll have you dancing and painting to pop, R&B, and indie-electro anthems. There’s even a glitter bar, because… why not?
Dress code: Think boho, shiny, and loud. Prizes are up for grabs, so dust off your feathered accessories and fringe skirts while you still can.
Ticket price? Dhs199 (non-refundable and non-transferable). Can’t make it to Abu Dhabi? Don’t worry—there’s also a Dubai version on May 9. It’s a festival of fun, so don’t miss out!
3. ‘Dubai Chocolate’ Craze Sparks Sales Spike Across the UAE
If you haven’t heard of the “Dubai Chocolate” craze yet, you’re seriously missing out. Pistachio spreads are flying off the shelves across the UAE, with retailers like Noon Minutes and Amazon.ae reporting sky-high demand. What’s even more fascinating is that limited-edition pistachio product drops are selling out within hours.
This trend has completely shaken up the nut butter market, transforming what was once a niche product into a must-have pantry item. If you haven’t tried it yet, it might be time to get on board—the demand is real, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.
4. Qatar Takes The Lead In Phygital Sports
Qatar, already well known for hosting major global sporting events (hello, FIFA World Cup 2022!), is now venturing into a bold new frontier: Phygital sports. This exciting hybrid of physical and digital sports is gaining momentum, and Qatar’s leadership in the field is rapidly solidifying.
Dan Merkley, Managing Director of the World Phygital Community (WPC), highlighted Qatar’s early steps into this innovative space, particularly with successful phygital tournaments scheduled for 2025. Expect to see a growing fusion of virtual and physical sporting experiences in Qatar, positioning it as a global leader in the future of sports.
5. Riyadh Metro Expands With Two New Stations On The Orange Line
The Riyadh Metro just got a little more convenient. The city’s already impressive transit system has expanded, with the addition of two new stations on the Orange Line. These stations, the Railway Station and the Jarir District Station, are set to boost connectivity, making it even easier for commuters to get around the capital.
The Orange Line (Line 3) stretches a whopping 40.7 kilometres, and with the new stations, getting from point A to B just became a lot simpler. As the Kingdom’s largest urban transit network continues to grow, expect more additions to make public transport a smoother ride for everyone.
Also Read: From Dubai’s Mango Mania To Qatar’s Marine Life Safety, 6 GCC Updates For You
6. Nike Lights Up Burj Khalifa For Its Bounciest Shoe Yet, the Vomero 18
Nike celebrated the launch of its cushiest running shoe yet, the Vomero 18, by lighting up the Burj Khalifa in Dubai with a striking 360° LED display. Ten Nike runners, including Farah Majed and Saeid Ahmad, took part in a high-energy ten-minute relay challenge on a treadmill set right in front of the tower. The event marked the start of the upcoming 10 DAY / 10K Challenge, kicking off on 25 April at Kite Beach’s Point Zero, inviting runners across Dubai to test the new kicks via events, trial runs, and a Strava challenge—where exclusive prizes like a trip to the Copenhagen Half Marathon are up for grabs.
From Laws to Events, the GCC is Buzzing
The GCC region is always evolving, and these five updates give a glimpse into the exciting developments happening across the region. Whether it’s quirky new trends or metro expansions, the GCC is moving fast, so keep your eyes peeled for the next big thing.
Cover Image Courtesy: Riyadh Transport/X, Canva
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.