From excise duty on sweetened drinks to Abu Dhabi’s smart glasses for better travel, the region is growing towards innovation and healthcare. CT Quickies is back with your weekly dose of updates from the Middle East, and here are the top 10 breaking news stories for a glance.
10 Middle East Updates For You
1. UAE Announces New Excise Tax On Sweetened Drinks
The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has clarified its new excise tax model for sweetened drinks. According to a report by Gulf Today, it is set to roll out in early 2026. The system will use a Tiered Volumetric Model. This will link the tax rate per litre to the drink’s sugar content per 100ml. Producers and importers must submit certified lab reports. It’s important to obtain UAE Certificates of Conformity from accredited bodies to ensure compliance. If you don’t get the certification, the drink will automatically be classified as high-sugar.
Dubai’s biggest parking operator, Parkin PJSC, has rolled out new paid parking zones in Dubai Studio City and Dubai Outsource City. Both will be offering hourly and monthly options. Clear signage has been installed to guide motorists, and rates start from AED2 for 30 minutes. It goes up to AED36 for 24 hours. You can also opt for monthly subscriptions starting from AED315. According to a report by Gulf News, this expansion follows Parkin’s recent additions in Al Jaddaf and across 59 mosques.
3. Abu Dhabi: Blocking Space In Accidents Will Lead To A Penalty
UAE authorities are taking a firm stand against people crowding around accident or fire scenes. It’s a serious safety risk that blocks emergency responders from taking action. According to a report by Gulf News, Abu Dhabi Police and Civil Defence say such behaviour delays rescue efforts and can even cause more accidents. Motorists who stop to film or gather near crash sites will now face an AED1,000 fine.
4. Abu Dhabi Unveils Tech-Powered Smart Glasses For Better Travel Experience
AI-powered systems and smart glasses are being introduced in Abu Dhabi to make travel experiences more personal and immersive. According to a report by the Filipino Times, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is using artificial intelligence to tailor every stage of a tourist’s journey, from airport arrivals to sightseeing. There would be Meta smart glasses in the future, allowing content creators to share first-person perspectives of the emirate’s culture and lifestyle.
5. Sharjah Unveils Cutting-Edge Marine Research Hub
Sharjah’s Ruler has inaugurated the Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre in Khorfakkan. According to a report by Gulf Today, the new facility is focused on marine biology, chemistry, and environmental analysis. The centre includes 12 laboratories, a seawater treatment plant, a research port, and a diving training facility.
6. Al Wakra In Qatar Tightens Food Safety Checks
As part of the “My Civilised City” initiative, Al Wakra Municipality carried out evening inspections of food establishments at Al Wakra Sports Club to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. According to a report by Peninsula Qatar, the campaign, led by Hamad Ibrahim Al Sheikh, Head of the Health Control Section, identified several violations of the Human Food Control Regulation Law, with legal action taken against non-compliant outlets and workers to uphold food safety standards.
7. Muscat’s Beaches Dazzle with Nature’s Blue Glow
Muscat’s coastline at Al Bustan and Bandar Al Khairan recently turned into a glowing blue spot, thanks to a natural phenomenon called bioluminescence. According to a report by Money Control, this stunning glow has turned the beaches into an attraction for locals and travellers. You might spot it next time you stroll around Muttrah Corniche on an adventure through Wadi Shab.
8. Turkey Uncorks a 1,600-Year-Old Wine Secret
Archaeologists in Turkey have stumbled upon what might be every wine lover’s dream. A 1,600-year-old winery tucked near Kahta Castle in the village of Oymakli. According to a report by NDTV Food, the discovery revealed ancient grape-crushing systems and massive stone cisterns once used to store freshly made wine. The site mirrors Roman-era wineries found across the Mediterranean, offering a fascinating peek into how early winemakers crafted their vintages centuries ago.
9. Saudi Arabia Tightens Umrah Visa Rules
Saudi Arabia has shortened the Umrah visa validity from three months to just 30 days from the date of issuance and added a new condition requiring pilgrims to enter the Kingdom within that period, or the visa will be automatically cancelled. According to a report by DNA, the rule, effective next week, aims to manage rising pilgrim numbers and prevent overcrowding as the cooler season draws more visitors to Makkah and Madinah. The Ministry also reaffirmed that holders of various visa types can still perform Umrah as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals to boost religious tourism.
10. Saudi Arabia Gears Up for Expo 2030 Riyadh
Saudi Arabia is gearing up to host Expo 2030 Riyadh, inviting 197 countries to take part in the global event running from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031. According to a report by SceneNow, organisers expect around 42 million visitors over six months. Held under the theme “Foresight for Tomorrow,” the Expo will spotlight technology, sustainability, and human prosperity. The six-million-square-metre site will feature new infrastructure projects, including the Riyadh Metro and airport expansion, and will later be transformed into a permanent innovation and cultural hub.
Here’s all for the week with Middle East updates. We will be back shortly with CT Quickies next weekend!
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Blvckshot, Mila Rachmania Meldy’s Images
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. First Published: October 31, 2025 8:03 PM