From Sharjah’s One Mile Challenge To Saudia’s New Direct Flights To Phuket, 6 GCC Updates For You

Pic Creds: Sharjah Women Foundation/Instagram, Saudi Airlines/X

Welcome to the latest edition of GCC Updates! This week, we’re bringing you the hottest news from around the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. From groundbreaking initiatives to record-breaking achievements, the GCC continues to shine as a hub of innovation and progress.

6 GCC Updates For You

1. Sharjah’s ‘One Mile Challenge’ Promotes Fitness for All Women

Fitness plays a vital role in our lives, and Sharjah Women’s Sports Foundation is leading the charge to make it more accessible. With their latest initiative, the ‘One Mile Challenge,’ they’re inviting women of all ages to embrace fitness as a regular part of their lives, with no age bar attached. The challenge kicks off on December 10 at the Sharjah Women’s Olympic Sports Centre track, starting at 9 am. Designed as a perfect mix of fun and fitness, this event promises to energize participants and inspire a healthier lifestyle.

2. Emirates Soars To The Top In Customer Satisfaction


The customer is king, and Emirates Airlines listens. Airhelp, a survey website has crowned Emirates Airlines as the world’s best airline on customer opinion. This Dubai-based airline excels in resolving customer complaints, addressing queries, and compensating travellers efficiently. Emirates scored an impressive 9 points, the highest among all airlines while Qatar Airways followed closely with 8.9 points. With such accolades, Emirates continues to set the bar sky-high in passenger satisfaction.

3. C3pay Payroll Card Simplifies Financial Management For Low-Income Workers In RAK

Low-income workers face numerous challenges in building financial stability, from opening bank accounts to accessing credit cards. But Ras Al Khaimah authorities have stepped in to simplify their financial journey with the C3Pay payroll card. This government-authorized system allows workers to manage their money seamlessly, eliminating the need for traditional bank accounts. With C3Pay, low-strata earners can now create a secure financial portfolio and take charge of their finances effortlessly.

4. Zayed International Airport Named World’s Most Beautiful And We’re Not Surprised

No surprises here! Abu Dhabi’s stunning new airport, Zayed International, has been named the most beautiful airport in the world. The recognition came from the prestigious Prix Versailles, the World Architecture and Design Award. Zayed International Airport embodies Abu Dhabi’s rich culture and natural environment, making it a breathtaking gateway to the capital. Travelers and design enthusiasts alike are swooning over this architectural masterpiece.

5. Direct Flights To Phuket Announced By Saudia For A Perfect Winter Escape

Credits: Saudia Airlines/ Facebook

Dreaming of a tropical getaway to Phuket this winter? Saudia has made it a breeze! The airline now offers direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to Phuket, operating thrice weekly on the luxurious Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Flights to Phuket will depart from Riyadh at 12:55 am and arrive at the destination at 12:45 pm. Meanwhile, Jeddah departures take off at 1:55 am, landing in Phuket at 1:45 pm. Return flights from Phuket leave at 11:45 pm, touching down in Jeddah at 4:45 am.

Also Read: From Dubai’s Big Bad Wolf Book Sale To Abu Dhabi’s New Museum, 5 GCC Updates For You

6. Dubai Sets Guinness World Record At Megacampus Summit

Dubai brings another Guinness World Record home along with its impressive list of achievements! The Megacampus Summit Dubai, held at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena on December 2-3, 2024, earned the title of World’s Largest Attendance for an Entrepreneurial Conference thanks to its unmatched scale and impact. Mr Pravin Patel, a Guinness World Records adjudicator, officially presented the certificate to Grigory Avetov, CEO of the Megacampus Summit Dubai, in a moment of celebration and recognition.

As we wrap up this edition it’s clear that the region is not just keeping pace but is setting new benchmarks across various sectors. Stay tuned for more updates as the GCC continues to redefine excellence and innovation.

Cover Image Courtesy: Sharjah Women Foundation/Instagram, Saudi Airlines/X

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Deeplata Garde: An innovative damsel who lives in the moment is mostly found in a corner lost in the world of books. Deeplata Garde is all sass, a complete foodie but a fussy one, and wears her heart on her sleeve. Finding her solace around gushing shores she loves to immerse in sunsets on beaches.