This week’s GCC updates cover a major service upgrade in Sharjah, a cooler few days ahead for UAE residents, Kuwait’s biggest family policy overhaul yet, and a same-day walk-in window for Indian students racing a college deadline.
5 GCC Updates
1. Sharjah Just Cut NOC Approvals From Three Days To Two Hours
SEWA has slashed the time it takes to issue no-objection certificates from three working days down to just two hours, thanks to a new digital system that verifies applications automatically. Abdulrahim Al Zarouni, Director of Shared Services at SEWA, tied the move directly to Sharjah’s push to make the emirate more attractive for infrastructure and development projects. Applications can now be submitted around the clock through SEWA’s website or app, with real-time tracking built in, so there’s no more guessing where your request stands in the queue.
2. Al Dhaid Date Festival Marks A Decade With Record Turnout
The 10th edition of the Al Dhaid Date Festival is drawing large crowds at Expo Al Dhaid this weekend, with participation up 30% on last year and more than 100 companies and institutions taking part. Organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this year’s festival, running until 26 July, brings together farmers, date producers and home-based businesses from across the UAE, alongside a full lineup of competitions covering everything from Khalas and Shishi dates to a new category for women growing palms at home. Farmers from as far as Ras Al Khaimah have travelled in to showcase their harvest.
3. Cooler Days, Fog And A Chance Of Rain This Weekend In UAE
UAE temperatures are easing off over the coming days, with the National Centre of Meteorology forecasting fog and mist overnight into the early mornings, particularly along the coast. From Monday, expect the weather to turn a bit more unpredictable, with convective clouds building over eastern areas and a real chance of afternoon showers. Winds could pick up to 40km/h at times too.
4. Kuwait Launches Its First Unified Family Protection Program
Kuwait has rolled out what officials are calling the country’s first comprehensive national initiative dedicated to protecting families and children, spanning 86 projects across 13 government agencies. Justice Minister Nasser Al-Sumait described it as a top government priority, with plans covering everything from tackling school bullying to strengthening child protection systems.
Also Read: From Etihad’s AED730 Fare Sale To Riyadh’s Giant MBS Mural, 5 GCC Updates
5. Indian Students In Dubai Get An Emergency Window For NRI Certificates
The Consulate General of India in Dubai opened a limited walk-in facility today for NRI certificate applications, aimed squarely at students racing college admission deadlines back home. The catch: it only runs from 8:30 am to 12 noon, and only applications with a submission deadline on or before July 31 qualify. Anyone applying needs the completed NRI certificate form, all supporting documents, and an employment certificate, entering through Gate No. 1 on a first-come, first-served basis.
That’s all for your GCC roundup for today. Sharjah’s NOCs now take 2 hours instead of 3 days, Kuwait launched its biggest family protection program yet & more.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ Anson Fernandez Dionisio from Getty Images