From Navi Mumbai International Airport’s 1st International Flight To Ajman’s Mortgage Fee Exemption, 5 GCC Updates

Keeping up with updates from across the GCC region is quite difficult. But ensuring that you stay ahead of the news is very important. And to make sure that you do not miss out on such important updates from across the GCC region, we have made a list of updates from across the Middle East that you will want to know if you wish to stay ahead of the news. Take a look!

GCC Updates

1. Paid Parking Begins At Sharjah’s Aljada

Drivers visiting Sharjah’s Aljada will now have to pay for parking across selected streets, car parks and retail locations, following the launch of a new smart parking system this week. Parkin has partnered with developer Arada to introduce ticketless paid parking across the mixed-use community, marking the Dubai-listed company’s first operation in Sharjah. The system uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology, so there’s no need to collect a physical ticket. On-street parking along Aljada’s East Boulevard will cost AED6.30 an hour, including VAT, operating round the clock, while designated off-street spaces and parking lots will cost AED4.20 an hour between 8 am and midnight. The system took effect on July 15, with full tariff and subscription details available through Parkin’s portal.

2. Saudi Cabinet Approves State Revenues Law & New Training Visa

The Saudi Cabinet, chaired by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, has approved the State Revenues Law and endorsed a new Training Visa for international trainees during a session held in Jeddah. The new visa is designed to facilitate short- and medium-term training opportunities for foreign professionals and students, with sectors expected to include research, academia and corporate training programmes aligned with Vision 2030. The State Revenues Law, meanwhile, aims to modernise revenue management and strengthen fiscal governance as part of the Kingdom’s broader economic diversification push.

3. Air India Express Launches Direct Navi Mumbai-Abu Dhabi Flights

Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. (AAHL) finally announces the commencement of scheduled international operations at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), with Air India Express to operate direct flights between Navi Mumbai and Abu Dhabi from July 15, 2026. The thrice-weekly service will see NMIA’s international network launched in less than 200 days after the airport starts domestic operations on December 25, 2025, and make every airport in AAHL’s portfolio internationally connected

4. Tourism To Oman’s Jabal Al Akhdar Climbs 13% Driven By Rose Spring Festival

Visitor numbers to Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman’s Al Dakhiliyah Governorate reached 101,608 between January and June 2026, up 13.2% from 89,780 during the same period last year, according to Oman’s National Centre for Statistics and Information. Foreign nationals made up the largest share of visitors at 52,230, followed by 40,082 Omani visitors. The surge was driven by the annual Festival 2026, which runs from late March to mid-April, and the mountain spot is known for its cool climate, hiking trails and rose water heritage.

Also Read: From Dubai’s New Bus Routes To Sharjah’s Tourism Incentive Programme, 5 GCC Updates

5. Ajman Exempts Citizens From Mortgage Release Fees On Government Housing

Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Executive Council, has directed the exemption of Ajman citizens benefiting from Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme loans from fees for releasing mortgages on their government housing. Announced via a post on X, Sheikh Ammar said the move coincides with the “Year of the Family,” aiming to reduce financial burdens, support family stability, and simplify property documentation procedures for citizens.

So with these updates laid out for you, we hope you’re able to stay ahead of the news.

Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied