It’s been another busy week across the GCC, with soaring temperatures in the UAE, proposed business reforms in Kuwait & fresh airline updates. Here’s your quick catch-up on the region’s biggest updates.
5 GCC Updates
1. UAE Weather: 49°C Heat Before Rain Finally Returns
The UAE is bracing for temperatures of up to 49°C in inland areas, according to the National Centre of Meteorology. Coastal and island areas could see highs of 40°C to 45°C, while rising humidity may bring fog or mist to western areas by Monday morning.
Relief could arrive from Tuesday, with convective clouds expected to develop over eastern areas and bring a chance of rain through midweek. Winds may reach 40km/h, potentially kicking up dust across parts of the country.
2. Papa John’s Qatar Marks 20 Years With A Reinvented Pan Pizza
Papa John’s is marking 20 years in Qatar with the launch of its newly reimagined Pan Pizza. The recipe features a six-cheese blend, garlic-parmesan-infused crust and toppings spread right to the edges.
The revamped pizza was introduced globally earlier this year, but its Qatar arrival comes as the brand celebrates two decades in the market. For loyal customers, it’s a fresh take on a familiar favourite.
3. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Hails ADIHEX’s Role In Preserving Emirati Heritage
The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) is hosting its biggest edition yet. The 23rd edition features 2,405 exhibitors from 71 countries across 107,000 square metres, marking a 17% increase in size from last year.
Held under the theme “A Legacy of Pride”, the exhibition celebrates Emirati falconry, equestrian traditions and heritage crafts. This year’s programme includes 55 falcon-breeding farms and eight falcon auctions. ADIHEX runs until September 6 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
4. Kuwait Considers Letting Government Employees Own Freelance Licences
Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry is studying reforms that could allow government employees to own freelance business licences. Such ownership is currently restricted under existing rules.
The proposed changes form part of efforts to modernise Kuwait’s commercial licensing system in line with Kuwait Vision 2035. The ministry is also looking to address businesses registered under other people’s names to bypass ownership restrictions. If approved, the reform could give public sector employees greater scope to formalise side businesses while continuing their government roles.
5. Flying From The UAE Today? Here’s What’s Affected
Travellers flying from the UAE are being advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport. Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia and flydubai continue to operate, although some services remain affected by regional disruptions.
Emirates’ EK837 to Bahrain has been cancelled, while Air Arabia has cancelled several Sharjah and Abu Dhabi services to Kuwait and Bahrain. flydubai has reported delays on select routes, including Mombasa and Salzburg.
Travellers should check their airline’s official channels for the latest updates and allow extra time at the airport.
Also Read: Air Arabia’s Düsseldorf Flights To NCM’s Red Alert For Saudi Arabia For Heavy Rains; 5 GCC Updates
The Big Picture For GCC Residents This Week
From extreme heat and changing weather to business reforms, heritage celebrations, food launches and flight disruptions, the GCC continues to move quickly. These are the key updates worth knowing if you want to stay across what’s happening around the region without scrolling through endless news feeds.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ Collab Media’s Images, Papa John’s/Website