From safety-first reminders in the Empty Quarter to chocolate pop-ups at futuristic landmarks, here’s what’s shaping conversations across the GCC updates right now.
5 GCC Updates For You
1. Safety Takes Centre Stage At Liwa’s Dunes
Are you heading to Liwa? Well, Abu Dhabi Police is urging motorists attending the Liwa International Festival to prioritise safety while driving on the dunes at Tal Moreeb. Officers are present throughout the festival, handing out helmets on-site with support from Emirates Red Crescent and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority. The festival runs from December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026.
2. Dubai’s Most Talked-About Chocolate Lands At Museum Of The Future
Dubai’s dessert scene is about to get busier as FIX Dessert Chocolatier will open a limited pop-up at the Museum of the Future. Starting January 2 to 11, 2026, visitors can grab the brand’s signature dessert bars and be the first to taste FIX’s debut flavour of 2026. Built in collaboration with Careem, the activation includes interactive elements designed to pull fans into the brand’s story.
3. Engines Rev Up For Middle East Car & Bike Week 2026
Petrolheads, mark the dates as the Middle East Car & Bike Week 2026 takes over Dubai Studio City on January 10 and 11, closing the Dubai Shopping Festival Auto Season in style.
Spanning nearly half a million square feet, the event builds on the success of Arabian Bike Week 2024. There will be supercars, superbikes, custom builds, stunt and drifting arenas, RC racing, retail zones, live music, and family-friendly attractions.
4. Saudi Arabia And Qatar Get Closer By Rail
Saudi Arabia’s Cabinet has approved a high-speed electric rail project linking the Kingdom with Qatar. The decision, chaired by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, positions the project as a flagship step toward deeper Gulf connectivity.
Officials say the rail link will boost transport efficiency, tourism, and trade while supporting long-term economic diversification.
Also Read: Gypsy Kings Coming To AlUla To Emirates’ New First Class Lounge Wear; 5 GCC Updates For You
5. Oman Air Expands Its European Reach
Oman Air has launched a new service to Copenhagen via Baghdad. This marks its first commercial presence in both countries. The route began on December 20, 2025, operates under Fifth Freedom rights, and uses a Boeing 737 MAX.
Here’s all about the major GCC updates shaping travel, culture, and connectivity in 2026.
Cover Image Courtesy: FIX Chocolatier/Instagram, Oman Air/Website
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