The latest GCC updates bring a mix of business, travel, weather and entertainment news from across the region. Dubai is preparing for a major automotive aftermarket event at Expo City, Emirates is offering eligible passengers a complimentary Dubai hotel stay, Qatar is bracing for temperatures of up to 41°C and Saudi Arabia has signed a new visa exemption agreement with Paraguay. Here are five GCC updates to know today.
5 GCC Updates For Today
1. Automechanika Dubai Is Moving To Dubai Exhibition Centre
Automechanika Dubai will return from 10–12 November 2026 for its 23rd edition, bringing the international automotive aftermarket community together for three days of sourcing, business, networking, knowledge exchange and industry discussion at its new home, Dubai Exhibition… pic.twitter.com/t3uwQPzOih
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) September 24, 2026
Automechanika Dubai is preparing for a new chapter as the automotive aftermarket exhibition moves to Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai for its 2026 edition. The event will run from November 10 to 12 and is expected to bring more than 1,200 exhibitors from over 50 countries together for three days of business, sourcing, networking and industry discussions. After 22 editions at Dubai World Trade Centre, the move to Dubai Exhibition Centre marks a new venue for the event. The exhibition will cover areas including vehicle parts, electronics, tyres, batteries, diagnostics, repair, detailing and digital solutions.
2. Emirates Is Offering Eligible Travellers A Free Dubai Hotel Stay
Travellers flying with Emirates can currently make the most of a complimentary hotel stay in Dubai, depending on their cabin class and ticket. Passengers travelling on eligible return tickets to or through Dubai can receive a complimentary stay at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai when their itinerary includes a stopover of more than 24 hours. Business and First Class passengers can receive a two-night stay, while Premium Economy and Economy passengers are eligible for one complimentary night. The offer applies to qualifying flights between June 25 and September 30.
3. Qatar Could Hit 41°C This Weekend
Qatar is heading into another hot weekend, with temperatures expected to climb to 41°C on Saturday. The Qatar Meteorology Department forecast temperatures of 39°C on Thursday, September 24, followed by a maximum of 40°C on Friday and 41°C on Saturday. Hazy conditions could also develop late at night on Thursday and Saturday, while hazy to misty conditions are expected in some areas during the early hours of Friday. Winds will mainly be northwesterly to northeasterly, with sea conditions remaining between one and three feet.
4. Saudi Arabia And Paraguay Sign Visa Exemption Agreement
Saudi Arabia and Paraguay have signed an agreement covering mutual exemption from short-stay visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and special passports. The agreement was signed following a meeting between Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano in New York during the high-level week of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. It is intended to simplify procedures and strengthen cooperation between the two countries. It applies to diplomatic and special passport holders rather than ordinary tourist passports.
5. Dubai Fountain Performances Have Resumed
Dubai Fountain performances have resumed following a temporary suspension during the official mourning period in Dubai. Emaar said the attraction has returned with an adjusted presentation reflecting the solemnity of the ongoing mourning period following the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Dubai Fountain had previously returned in October 2025 after a five-month closure for renovation and upgrades, drawing thousands of spectators when its water, music and light shows restarted.
GCC Updates: What To Know
From a major automotive exhibition changing venues to soaring temperatures in Qatar and new travel developments, the latest GCC updates cover everything from business and tourism to weather and entertainment.
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