It’s been a full-on week across the Gulf. Scorching temps in Doha, driverless tech in Riyadh, the Gulf isn’t slowing down for anyone. Whether you call the UAE home, are packing for Umrah, or just scrolling through the GCC updates with your morning chai, here’s a no-fuss look at what’s been stirring things up across the region.
5 GCC Updates For You
1. Qatar Kicks Off Al Dhira’a Season With Scorching Heat And Surprise Rain
If you’re in Doha, don’t expect a breeze anytime soon. The Qatar Meteorology Department has officially flagged the start of Al Dhira’a, or Al-Mirzam as locals call it. It kicked off on 29 July 2025 and runs for nearly two weeks, dragging in some of the year’s most brutal weather.
We’re talking scorching sun, air so thick with humidity it feels like you’re walking through soup, and the occasional rainstorm that shows up without warning. Winds are blowing in from the northeast, but they’re doing little to take the edge off the heat.
2. Dubai Marine Stations Get A Comfort Upgrade
Good news if you take the water route around town. Dubai’s RTA has just wrapped up phase two of its marine station upgrade. Five stops: Al Fahidi, Baniyas, Al Seef, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Bluewaters are now fully air-conditioned with revamped seating, signage, and facilities.
This follows the earlier revamp in May, which included Marina Promenade and nearby docks. If you haven’t hopped on a ferry or abra in a while, now’s a good time to give it another shot. You’ll get the view without sweating through your shirt.
3. DXB Clocks Record Numbers With 46 Million Travellers
Dubai International Airport has officially had its busiest first half ever. In just six months, over 46 million passengers passed through DXB, a 2.3% bump from last year.
It’s more than a record, it’s a clear sign that Dubai’s tourism, trade, and transit sectors are all firing. So if Terminal 3 has felt a little more packed lately, it’s not just you. The skies are full, the lounges are busy, and the arrivals board barely slows down.
4. Saudi Arabia Approves First Self-Driving Taxi
Saudi just entered the self-driving race. WeRide, a Chinese autonomous driving company, has landed the Kingdom’s first-ever driverless licence. Their Robotaxi service is already in testing across Riyadh, working alongside Uber and local tech firm AiDriver.
What makes this one big? WeRide now holds licences in six countries, including the UAE, China, the US, France, and Singapore. It’s a serious move for the region’s growing smart mobility sector and Saudi’s not planning to stay in the slow lane.
Also Read: Dubai RTA Announcing New Bus Route To Omani Authorities Rescuing Hiker; 5 GCC Updates For You
5.Sheikh Mohammed Rides The Metro, Shares A Moment With The Public
Dubai commuters got a surprise this week when His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was spotted riding the Metro and greeting passengers and staff along the way. With no official ceremony or media team in tow, the Ruler of Dubai moved through the station like any regular resident, pausing to shake hands and exchange a few warm words.
It was a simple gesture, but one that struck a chord. In a city where progress is constant, new tech, transport expansions, and weather alerts shaping daily life, it’s moments like this that remind everyone of the leadership’s grounded approach and connection to the community.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Marc Bruxelle by Getty Images, Scharfsinn86 from Getty Images
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