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From UAE Schools’ Ban On Trolley Bags to SalamAir Relaunching Beirut Flights, 6 GCC Updates for You

From schools banning trolley bags to Louis Vuitton joining Dubai’s new One Freezone Passport, this week’s GCC update rounds up all the major headlines worth knowing.

by Deeplata Garde
From UAE Schools’ Ban On Trolley Bags to SalamAir Relaunching Beirut Flights, 6 GCC Updates for You

The GCC has been buzzing with updates, from school circulars causing chatter in UAE homes to luxury brands planting flags across Dubai’s free zones. Here’s your no-nonsense GCC Updates roundup of what’s new and what you seriously shouldn’t ignore this week.

6 GCC Updates To Keep You In The Loop

1. UAE Schools Are Saying ‘No’ To Trolley Bags

Back-to-school lists are popping up, but this year, some UAE schools are tossing trolley bags off the list altogether. Several institutions have sent out notices urging parents not to send their kids with rolling bags next term. Why? Safety, mostly. Those bulky bags get caught on stairs, roll over feet, and don’t work well in packed corridors. Plus, teachers have raised concerns about classroom clutter and students tugging heavy bags across rough pavements. It’s not just about the noise anymore, it’s about the daily grind on young backs.

2. Louis Vuitton Is The First To Use Dubai’s One Freezone Passport

Dubai has officially made it easier for companies to operate across free zones without getting stuck in a tangle of licences. The new ‘One Freezone Passport’ lets businesses work across all zones in the emirate under one licence. Guess who’s first in line? Louis Vuitton. The luxury brand now runs its warehouse out of Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), while its shiny new corporate office sits pretty in One Za’abeel under DWTC Free Zone. It’s a game-changer for businesses that want flexibility without drowning in paperwork. Launched by the Dubai Free Zones Council, this move is expected to draw more international players who want to expand operations with less hassle.

3. Transferring Money To Strangers? That Could Cost You 10 Years In Jail

The UAE isn’t messing around when it comes to money transfers. If you’re thinking of sending cash to someone you don’t really know, think again. Under the UAE’s Federal Law on Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing, transferring funds into unknown accounts can land you in deep legal trouble. If that account is later found to be linked to criminal activity, think drugs, scams, or worse, you’re part of the mess. Article 22 lays down the punishment clearly: up to 10 years in prison and a fine of AED 100,000 to AED 5 million. The message is clear: don’t send cash without checking who you’re dealing with. And no, WhatsApp forwards don’t count as ID verification.

4. Dubai’s RTA Launches New Driving Centre In Al Rowaiyah

If you’re living near Al Rowaiyah 3, good news, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) just gave the green light to a new driving and licensing centre in Sector 5. Operated by First Driving Centre, this spot is set up to improve accessibility and service speed for residents nearby.

5. SalamAir Is Bringing Back Beirut Flights From December

If Lebanon is on your bucket list or your go-to getaway spot, mark your calendar. Starting 3 December 2025, SalamAir will relaunch direct flights from Oman to Beirut twice a week.

It’s part of their bigger plan to stretch wings across the region. Affordable fares and more routes? That’s the kind of good news flyers love to hear. Beirut’s back on the map, and your holiday plans just got easier.

Also Read: From 500 Scholarships In Sharjah To New Rules For Hajj Campaign Organisers, 5 GCC Updates For You

6. Emirates’ Upcycled Bags Are Back With A Limited Drop

gcc updates
Pic Creds: Supplied

Following the sell-out buzz of its first Aircrafted collection in 2023, Emirates is at it again. The 2025 drop includes 167 limited-edition handmade bags, all crafted from repurposed aircraft materials. And yes, they’re as cool as they sound.

Think trolley bags, trendy backpacks, and even handbags made from the fur lining of the Captain’s seat. Prices range from USD 80 to USD 350, and just like the last collection, proceeds will go to children’s causes via the Emirates Airline Foundation.

This collection is a piece of aviation history stitched into stylish, useful gear. You can grab yours at the Emirates Official Store, but don’t take your sweet time, they won’t be around for long.

Stay sharp, shop smart, and maybe avoid any dodgy transfers this week.

Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ The Carlos Gutierrez Collection, SalamAir/Website

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First Published: July 22, 2025 4:16 PM