From new flight connections to changes on Dubai roads, the Gulf region has several developments for residents and travellers to keep an eye on. SalamAir is preparing to add two destinations to its network, Dubai is planning a new commercial tower, and authorities have announced changes to speed limits on five roads. Here are five GCC updates to know.
5 GCC Updates For Today
1. Salamair Adds Erbil And Damascus
Oman’s low-cost carrier SalamAir will begin Muscat–Erbil flights on October 25, with two services a week, making Erbil its second Iraqi destination after Baghdad. Direct flights to Damascus follow on October 28, and SalamAir will be the first Omani airline to fly the route. The airline marked both launches at a ceremony at Muscat International Airport. It says the two cities are its seventh and eighth new destinations this year, taking its network past 46.
2. Dubai Mourns A Police Pioneer
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, has mourned Major General Khalifa bin Dhaen Al Muhairi. In a post on X, he said Al Muhairi was among the first young men to join Dubai Police after it was set up, held many posts over decades, and kept giving after retirement through charitable, educational and community projects. Dubai Police said he joined at 15 in 1956 and was given police number 8. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also paid tribute, citing five decades of service.
3. A 400-Metre Tower For Sheikh Zayed Road
Developer LMD has unveiled the Christian A. Rockefeller Business Tower, an 87-floor office building planned for Sheikh Zayed Road. Named after a sixth-generation member of the Rockefeller family, it is due for completion in 2031. Plans include four office collections, five amenity floors, an observatory pool, wellness facilities, dining and retail, and more than 1,100 parking spaces. Some project listings give a lower height than the 400 metres reported.
4. New Speed Limits From November 1
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority will change limits on five roads from November 1, in both directions. Al Asayel Street rises from 60 to 80km/h, while Al Mustaqbal Street and Latifa bint Hamdan Street go from 60 to 70km/h. Al Rebat Street drops from 100 to 90km/h, and Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah Street from 80 to 70km/h. Signs will be replaced and cameras reprogrammed before the changes begin.
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5. UAE Prepares Roads For Rain With 17 Pumping Stations And 800 Culverts
The UAE is strengthening its road network ahead of the rainy season, with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure inspecting drainage systems and preparing 17 pumping stations and 800 stormwater culverts. The measures aim to prevent water accumulation, reduce flood risks and keep traffic moving during adverse weather. Specialised field teams and equipment are being deployed to respond to waterlogging, while maintenance crews clear waterways and remove sediment from drainage infrastructure. The ministry also uses a 24-hour monitoring system for dams and wadis, with sensors, cameras and early flood warnings to help authorities respond quickly and protect lives and property.
Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied
FAQs
Who was Major General Khalifa bin Dhaen Al Muhairi?
He was one of Dubai Police's earliest officers. Dubai Police said he joined the force at 15 in 1956 and was given police number 8. He later rose to the rank of major general.
Which Dubai roads get new speed limits on November 1?
Al Asayel Street (60 to 80km/h), Al Mustaqbal Street (60 to 70), Latifa bint Hamdan Street (60 to 70), Al Rebat Street (100 to 90) and Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah Street (80 to 70). The changes apply only to the sections the RTA has mapped.
