From 2027 holiday predictions to a new Abu Dhabi-Berlin flight route, there’s plenty of Middle East Updates to catch up. Umm Al Quwain is getting ready for its winter camping season, Dubai has set out its plans for more green spaces, and Qatar has picked up an award for transport innovation.
10 Middle East Updates Making The News
1. UAE Ramadan And Eid Dates For 2027 Are Taking Shape
Already thinking about your 2027 holidays? Ramadan could begin in the UAE on February 8, with Eid Al Fitr expected around March 9 or 10. Eid Al Adha and Arafah Day are also expected to bring a four-day break from May 15 to 18. These dates are based on astronomical forecasts, so the final dates will depend on official moon sightings and announcements. Hold off on making firm travel plans until the holidays are confirmed.
2. Umm Al Quwain Opens Winter Camping Permit Applications Soon
Fancy spending the cooler months outdoors? Umm Al Quwain will begin accepting winter camping permit applications on October 19. The season is due to start on November 1, with applications closing on October 30. Campsites in Al Aqran and Al Thaniya will be available for periods of three to six months. Permits are restricted to eligible passport holders from the emirate. Campers must follow site rules and fire safety requirements, as violations could lead to penalties, cancellation or the loss of their security deposit.
3. Morocco’s Crown Prince Visits UAE Pavilion At El Jadida Horse Show
Emirati heritage was on display when Morocco’s Crown Prince visited the UAE Pavilion at the El Jadida Horse Show. The pavilion, organised with the Emirates Arabian Horse Society and Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, featured traditional Al Sadu weaving, Emirati clothing, gold craftsmanship, dakhoun and perfumes. The visit also included a look at the UAE Arabian Horse Studbook and publications celebrating the country’s heritage. Arabian horses and traditional craftsmanship were among the highlights, reflecting cultural ties between the UAE and Morocco.
4. Abu Dhabi Gets Daily Berlin Flights With Condor
Berlin is becoming easier to reach from Abu Dhabi, thanks to Condor’s new daily, year-round service. Announced by Zayed International Airport on October 16, the route operates using an Airbus A320neo and marks the first scheduled direct Berlin-Abu Dhabi connection on Condor’s network. A codeshare partnership with Etihad Airways will give passengers more options for onward connections. The new service adds another route between the UAE and Germany for holidaymakers, business travellers and visitors heading to either capital.
5. Fire At Hudayriyat Beach Floating Platform Brought Under Control
A fire broke out on a floating platform at Hudayriyat Beach on October 15, prompting a response from Abu Dhabi Police and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority. Emergency teams brought the fire under control, and no casualties were reported. Cooling and smoke-clearance operations followed. Authorities urged the public to follow official updates rather than share unverified reports. Further information about what caused the fire should be treated as unconfirmed unless released by the relevant authorities.
6. Dubai Plans To Plant 3.5 Million Trees By 2040
Dubai is planning a greener future, with the municipality aiming to plant around 3.5 million trees by 2040. The plan also targets 187 square kilometres of green space, 11 square metres per person and 95 million annual visits to parks and recreational facilities. The wider programme covers construction technology, waste management and drainage. Its AED 30 billion Tasreef project aims to boost rainwater drainage capacity by 700%, as the emirate continues investing in its urban infrastructure.
7. Dubai Has A Cookie Buffet On The October Food Calendar
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Cookie lovers have another dessert experience to look out for in Dubai this October. A cookie buffet promises the chance to sample different flavours in one visit, making it an option for anyone who would rather mix and match than settle for a single sweet treat. Before heading out, check the original Cookiehaul Instagram channel for the venue, dates, prices, available flavours and booking details. These details are particularly important if the experience is available for a limited time.
8. Heavy Rain Floods Hotel In Türkiye’s Antalya
Heavy rain has flooded a hotel in Antalya, Türkiye, with footage of the incident drawing attention online. In an unusual moment, a pianist reportedly continued playing a tune from Titanic while floodwater affected the property. The downpours have also raised concerns about local travel conditions. Anyone heading to Antalya should check weather advisories and contact their hotel or tour operator for updates before setting off.
9. Kazakhstan Expands Digital Transport Permits With Regional Partners
Cross-border freight paperwork is going digital in Kazakhstan, which is expanding electronic transport permit exchanges with Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan. A similar system is being tested with Georgia. The update was announced by Dastan Zhumakulov, chairman of Kazakhstan’s Committee for Road Transport and Transport Control, at the NEW SILK WAY forum in Astana. Officials reported that around 700,000 foreign transport permits had been issued electronically. The system is intended to cut paperwork, improve transparency and make international road freight more efficient.
Also Read: Etihad Airways Warning Of Scam To Oman Airport’s Advisory; 10 Middle East Updates For You
10. Qatar Wins Dubai Award For Sustainable Transport Innovation
Qatar’s Ministry of Transport has taken first place in the Innovation Category at the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport. The winning entry, the Qatar Activity-Based Transport Model (QABM), helps planners study travel patterns, estimate transport demand and assess network performance. It can also be used to test proposed projects and policies before they are implemented. Undersecretary Mohammed Abdullah Al Maadeed received the award in Dubai on October 15. The recognition highlights Qatar’s use of data to guide transport planning and infrastructure decisions.
That’s A Wrap!
That’s your round-up of what’s happening across the region, from upcoming public holidays and fresh flight connections to outdoor escapes and major infrastructure plans. Keep an eye on official announcements for confirmed holiday dates, travel updates and seasonal details. For more news on where to go, what to eat and what’s changing across the UAE and beyond, stay tuned to Curly Tales.
Cover Image Courtesy: Hudayriyat Island/Website
FAQs
When is Ramadan expected to begin in the UAE in 2027?
Astronomical forecasts suggest Ramadan could begin on February 8, 2027. The official start will depend on the crescent moon sighting.
When can residents apply for Umm Al Quwain winter camping permits?
Applications are scheduled to open on October 19 and close on October 30, 2026. The camping season is due to begin on November 1.
