From UAE Shutting Down Social Media Accounts To Qatar Bidding For 2036 Olympics, 5 GCC Updates

The Gulf just doesn’t know how to sit still. From visa renewals tied to traffic fines to luxury eco-living in Oman, there’s always something brewing. Here’s your round-up of GCC Updates this week.

5 Brewing GCC Updates From Around The Region

1. In Dubai, Your Visa Won’t Be Renewed If Your Traffic Fines Stack Up

Planning to renew your UAE residency visa? Better check your RTA record first. Dubai has started testing a new system that links visa renewal or issuance to unpaid traffic fines. If you’ve racked up speeding tickets or parking slips, you’ll now be nudged to settle them before the process moves forward. This pilot programme isn’t about blocking your residency. It’s more of a checkpoint. You can pay off the dues at once or choose instalments, but either way, the message is clear: no more dodging the fines and hoping for the best. The move comes straight from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. Their aim? To encourage safer driving and fewer pending fines.

2. UAE Cracks Down On Social Media Pages Pushing Illegal Domestic Help

Over 70 social media accounts found themselves locked out recently. Why? They were promoting unlicensed domestic worker recruitment services. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation shut down these pages after tracing unauthorised activity in the first half of the year. These pages were operating without proper licences, which poses risks to both employers and workers. Families looking for household help are now being urged to only deal with approved recruitment agencies. The MoHRE even has a full list of vetted agencies and their contact details on its website.

Also Read: From UAE Schools’ Ban On Trolley Bags to SalamAir Relaunching Beirut Flights, 6 GCC Updates for You

3. Qatar Enters The 2036 Olympic Ring

Looks like Qatar is eyeing another massive sporting event. The Qatar Olympic Committee has confirmed that it’s now part of ongoing talks with the International Olympic Committee to bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics. After pulling off the FIFA World Cup in 2022 with global attention, Qatar wants another win on its record. But it’s not the only one. India, Indonesia, Turkey, and Chile are all eyeing the same prize. Reports suggest India may be facing hurdles with its national Olympic governance, which could shift momentum towards other nations like Qatar.

4. Oman’s Yiti District Goes Luxe With ‘The Arc’ Residences

Eco-living just got fancier in Oman. The Sustainable City – Yiti has launched The Arc, a slick new set of 132 serviced residences built with sustainability and luxury at their core. Located in the heart of the green development, The Arc blends future-forward design with lifestyle perks like wellness-focused living and high-end amenities. Think coastal charm meets sleek interiors. One collection of residences even comes branded by Nikki Beach. This is part of Oman’s push under Vision 2040 to create more innovative, livable spaces. 

5. Apple Officially Lands In Saudi Arabia With Online Store And Diriyah Plans

Apple fans in Saudi Arabia, your prayers have been answered. The official Apple Online Store is now live across the Kingdom. Now you can shop the latest iPhones, iPads, and Macs straight from Apple, with proper support from people who actually know what they’re doing. And here’s the big one: Apple’s first physical store is coming to Diriyah. Yep, it’s finally happening. Yes, imagine shopping for gadgets with At-Turaif in the background. No more flying to Dubai or ordering from abroad.

Also Read: Emirates First’ Opening At DXB To Saudia’s Limited Period Offer; 6 GCC Updates For You

That’s a wrap

From visa updates in Dubai to Apple making moves in Diriyah, the GCC Updates are levelling up fast. Stay tuned, stay updated, and maybe pay off those traffic fines before it’s your turn for renewal.

Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Erik Mclean from Pexels, Ahmed_Abdel_Hamid from Getty Images Pro