This week in the Middle East was full of updates, whether they were the aviation disruptions, the weather warnings or the governmental warnings of safety. Governments and companies in the region are changing policies and yet maintaining residents notified and services working.
The following are 10 major updates in the Middle East that you must know.
10 Middle East Updates Today
1. UAE Calls Nationwide Ban On Drones
The General Civil Aviation Authority has reinstated the temporary restriction on all drone activity in the UAE. According to the authorities, the restriction assists in securing the national airspace and the safety of people. The residents and hobby drone operators have been encouraged to obey the official instructions since any breach may result in legal consequences. Authorities indicated that the suspension would be announced in the government when the suspension is ordered to be lifted.
2. Oman Air Halts Dubai Flights
On March 22, Oman Air cancelled scheduled flights in and out of Dubai. Other destinations like Amman, Doha and Manama are also not spared as there is an airspace closure in the region. The airline allows customers to do ticket bookings via its mobile application or web portal.
3. Dubai Police Beware, Residents Of Fraudulent Messages
Dubai Police has released an awareness of online scam messages in SMS, WhatsApp and social media. Fraudsters usually request personal information or transfer money. Law enforcement agencies recommend that the community not post personal information and report suspicious messages as soon as possible.
4. India–Riyadh Flights Resume After 2 Weeks
India Riyadh flights have been relocated after being disrupted for 2 weeks. Indian airlines like Air India, IndiGo and Air India Express conducted the first four flights, with the authorities still monitoring the situation in the regional airlines.
5. Dubai Now Has 24/7 Smart Police Stations
Dubai currently has 33 Smart Police Stations where there is no on-site personnel, and they provide service. Citizens are able to make complaints, report cybercrime, pay fines or seek permits through video calls with the officers. The centres are also available 24 hours around the emirate.
6. Sharjah Issues Emergency Safety Guide
The Sharjah Government Media Bureau issued new instructions on the way residents should act in case of an emergency alert. Individuals inside buildings are advised to avoid windows and balconies, whereas those outdoors must rush to the closest building that is safe.
7. Lulu Group Dispatches Food Supplies To Kuwait
The Lulu Group International organised special cargo flights with Kuwait Airways to deliver more than 80 tonnes of fresh Indian food to Kuwait. The goods shipped consisted of fruits, vegetables and meat that were to be sold at LuLu Hypermarkets.
8. Qatar Weather Alert Issued
Between March 12 and March 14, there is a forecast of thundery rain, fog and strong winds by the Qatar Meteorology Department. The temperature is supposed to be between 20 o C to 28 o C, and the sea might be rough along the coast.
9. Oman Confirms Stable Food Supply, Before Eid
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources officials were checking the markets in Muscat before Eid al-Fitr. Governments have assured that foodstuffs are stable and the prices are in check.
Also Read: Red Sea Museum Opening Exhibition To Islamic Arts Biennale 2027 Dates; 10 Middle East Updates
10. Dubai And RAK Announce Cancellation Of Eid fireworks
A number of tourist sites will miss out on fireworks during Eid this year. The cancellation was confirmed by Global Village and Ras Al Khaimah venues. Other attractions like Dubai Parks and Resorts and Ain Dubai are also closed as the authorities analyse the developments in the region.
At this point, that is the end of the Middle East Updates in the region.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/GordonBellPhotography from Getty Images
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FAQs
Why are drones currently banned in the UAE?
Authorities temporarily suspended drone flights to protect airspace safety.