GCC Updates is here with a fresh batch of jaw-dropping news from the region. From fitness to transport news, here’s what is new in the region.
5 GCC Updates For You
1. What Is Dubai’s Fit Zone 2025?
Dubai takes fitness seriously, and the Dubai Fitness Challenge that is hosted every year is proof of it. Similarly, the Emirate has launched Fit Zone 2025, a new health and fitness programme for inmates. Basically, the goal is to improve the physical and mental well-being of inmates. According to a report by Gulf News, the initiative was launched ahead of the annual Dubai 30×30 fitness challenge. The inmates will be encouraged to adopt exercise as a daily lifestyle habit. There will be customised wellness programs and training available for the inmates.
2. McDonald’s UAE Collaborates With UNTOLD Dubai
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Ever craved to dig into a McDonald’s Burger at concerts? We can relate, and so could UNTOLD, the most happening music festival. According to McDonald’s UAE’s Instagram, to beat this craving, UNTOLD Dubai has partnered with them so you can enjoy your meal while you sway to your favourite tunes. Also, if you buy any meal from McDonald’s in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, you can get a 15% discount on your UNTOLD Dubai passes right away!
3. Dubai Municipality Announces New Planning Rules For Early Childhood Centres
Dubai has rolled out new planning rules for early childhood centres. Basically, it means better learning spaces for little ones without driving up costs. Under the new guidelines, centres can now build a first floor for admin offices and support services, as long as the total building space stays within 45% of the plot. According to a report by Arabian Business, this move is part of the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040, which focuses on creating smarter, child-friendly communities for the future. To keep things organised and parent-friendly, parking rules have also been tightened. Each centre must now offer:
1 parking space per classroom
1 parking spot for every 50 sqm of office space
1 bus parking space for every 3 classrooms
Plus, buildings must leave a three-metre gap around all sides to ensure safety, ventilation, and easier movement.
4. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Praises Emirates Airlines On Its 40th Anniversary
قبل أربعين عاماً في ٢٥ أكتوبر ١٩٨٥ انطلقت أول رحلة لطيران الإمارات.. ومعها انطلقت طموحات كبيرة نحو السماء ..
أصبحت إحدى أفضل خطوط طيران العالم .. تربطنا بشكل مباشر مع ١٥٢ مدينة .. تنقل البشر .. وتنقل معهم أحلامهم وطموحاتهم إلى دبي وعبر دبي .. نقلت عبر مسيرتها أكثر من ٨٦٠ مليون…
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) October 24, 2025
Emirates has officially completed 40 years of flying, and HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has posted something nostalgic on his X. According to a report by Gulf Today, he remembered taking the very first flight on Oct 25th 1985. It’s been 4 decades, and Emirates has expanded overseas and has become the World’s top airline. Currently, it flies to 152 cities, carrying over 860 million passengers. The Ruler of Dubai praised Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed and the 100,000+ staff for achieving this milestone.
5. UAE & Oman Freight Rail Plans Speed Up
The plans for dedicated rail freight between the UAE and Oman are speeding up. According to a report by Arabian News, a preliminary deal was signed between Noatum Logistics and Hafeet Rail. The deal is in agreement to launch a daily cross-border container train linking Abu Dhabi and Sohar. With seven trains a week, the rail network will transport 20ft, 40ft and 45ft containers. These containers will carry everything from manufactured goods and pharma to agrifood supplies.
Here’s all about the list of GCC Updates for today. Will be back with more information from the region soon.
Cover Image Courtesy: Dubai Police, Emirates/X
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 25, 2025 7:05 PM