Across the Gulf, it has been a week of contrasts, extreme weather, rapid rescue operations, updates in policies, and pride. Here’s a list of GCC updates happening across the region.
5 GCC Updates For You
1. Oman Flood Rescue Highlights Rising Weather Risks
A man found himself trapped in a car nearly submerged in Wadi Al-Aiss, Oman, due to the water suddenly flooding the roads. Rapid response teams responded promptly. They made a cautious airlift and took him to safety.
No injuries were reported. However, the incident serves as a reminder that floodwaters can rush quickly and surprise individuals, even in well-known locations.
2. Saudi Arabia Issues 992 Helpline For Expired Visas
Saudi Arabia has established a well-defined support system for affected travellers.
The Passports Directorate affirmed that the current helpline with regard to questions based on expired visas, such as visit, Umrah, transit, and final exit permits, is now 992. People have the option of extending their visa until April 18 (fees apply) or exiting the country without penalties.
Authorities are urging people not to delay. Deadlines matter here.
3. Dubai Marks Global Milestone In Horse Racing
Once again, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has positioned Dubai as a prominent player in the global sporting arena. He called it a sign of the UAE’s ambition and power, as the event marked the 30th anniversary of the emirate’s prestigious horse race. Since the early races in the 1980s, horse racing in Dubai has a lot to be seen and experienced, as it is still developing at an accelerated, focused and international pace.
4. Abu Dhabi Strengthens Emergency Readiness
Preparedness is a priority in the UAE capital. Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoon Al Muhairi paid a visit to the Abu Dhabi Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre to check response systems. He evaluated operating rooms, the speed of unit coordination, and the speed of action in case of an emergency. The takeaway? The teams are prepared, monitoring is always on, and systems are in place.
5. Oman: Dam Full, 30 Rescued from Flooded Wadi
The Al-Masarrat system pumped heavy rains, which made the Wadi Dayqah Dam run at a full capacity of 100 million cubic metres. Meanwhile, 30 people were rescued when their bus was trapped in a fast-flowing river in Baushar. Everyone was evacuated successfully. Floods also affected part of Muscat, including Muttrah Souq, which destroyed shops and caused a traffic jam. The government still warns citizens against going across wadis during rain.
Also Read: Mwasalat Suspending Bus Routes To Al Jouf Being Blanketed By Hail; 5 GCC Updates For You
What This Means for Residents
The region is changing rapidly due to unexpected floods and policy changes. Stay alert. Stay informed and follow GCC updates.
Cover Image Courtesy: AlJawazatKSA/X