From a record-breaking pair of gold jhumkas in Dubai to the return of Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Festival, the GCC has several developments to catch up on. This edition of GCC Updates covers five stories, including a new prepaid card for UAE workers, a diplomatic meeting in Ras Al Khaimah and temporary beach closures in Sharjah.
5 GCC Updates For Today
1. Dubai’s 16.5 Kg Gold Jhumkas Set Two Guinness World Records
Dubai has unveiled an extraordinary pair of gold jhumkas named Mayura Sahasra, created by Indian-origin jeweller Joyalukkas. Made from 22-carat gold, the earrings weigh 16.514 kg and have earned two Guinness World Records titles for the heaviest pair of gold earrings and the largest pair of earrings. Measuring 1.215 metres in length, the statement pieces took 55 artisans 5,840 hours to craft. Unveiled in Dubai on October 24, 2026, they are not for sale and will remain on permanent display at the Jewel of Joy showroom in Dubai Gold District.
2. BOTIM Launches UAE’s First Fintech-Issued Jaywan Prepaid Card
UAE-based digital platform BOTIM has launched the country’s first prepaid card issued by a fintech company under Jaywan, the UAE’s national card scheme. The BOTIM One Jaywan Prepaid Card will be distributed through corporate payroll networks and exchange house partnerships, initially targeting more than 200,000 workers. The company aims to eventually extend its reach to four million workers as stated in Gulf News. The card allows eligible employees receiving salaries through BOTIM’s payroll solution to make in-store and online payments, giving them another way to access their wages digitally.
3. Ras Al Khaimah Ruler Meets UK’s UAE Ambassador
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and a member of the UAE Supreme Council, received Geraldine MacCaffrey, the UK’s Ambassador to the UAE, and Gemma Stevenson, the UK’s Consul General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, on October 29. The meeting took place at his palace in Saqr bin Mohammed City as mentioned in Emirates News Agency. The visitors offered greetings on assuming their new posts. Sheikh Saud welcomed both representatives and wished them success in their duties, highlighting the importance of strengthening cooperation between the UAE and the UK across various fields.
4. Sheikh Zayed Festival Returns To Abu Dhabi On October 30
The Sheikh Zayed Festival opens its 2026/2027 season in Al Wathba on October 30, bringing a 135-day programme of cultural events, entertainment, sports and family activities to Abu Dhabi. According to Emirates News Agency, visitors can look forward to international cultural pavilions, heritage displays, traditional performances, fireworks, laser shows and new amusement park rides featuring virtual reality. The festival also includes food courts serving Emirati, Gulf and international cuisine. It will run until March 13, 2027, opening daily at 4 pm and closing at midnight on weekdays or 1 am on weekends and public holidays.
5. Sharjah City Beaches Temporarily Close Following Oil Spill
Sharjah City’s beaches have been temporarily closed as a precaution against marine pollution linked to an oil spill from a maritime tanker as per Gulf Today. The Sharjah Government Media Bureau announced the measure on October 28, saying specialised teams and relevant authorities were working to protect the coastline and prevent the pollution from reaching the beaches. Residents and beachgoers have been asked to follow official instructions and obtain updates through authorised channels. Anyone planning a seaside visit should check the latest announcements from the relevant authorities before heading out.
These developments highlight the latest updates across the UAE, from cultural attractions and digital payment services to public safety measures. Keep following GCC Updates for more news from across the region
Cover Image Courtesy: Sheikh Zayed Festival/Website
FAQs
Why are Sharjah City beaches temporarily closed?
The beaches have been temporarily closed as a precaution to prevent marine pollution associated with an oil spill from a maritime tanker from reaching the coastline. Beachgoers should follow official announcements for updated guidance.
What is the new BOTIM Jaywan prepaid card?
The BOTIM One Jaywan Prepaid Card is a prepaid payment card issued by a fintech company under the UAE's national Jaywan card scheme. It is being introduced through payroll networks and exchange house partnerships, initially targeting more than 200,000 workers.
