If you are constantly trying to keep up with the updates from across the Middle East, you know that it is not an easy task. After all, there are many news pieces coming in from across the region that are difficult to remember. To ensure you are ahead of them, we have made a list of some important ones that will keep you on top of these developments so that an ardent news reader like you can always stay ahead of them.
Middle East Updates
1. The Philippines And GCC Strengthen Cooperation On Medical Screening
The Philippines and GCC are strengthening cooperation for medical screening of overseas Filipino workers. The plan is to expand the number of accredited health facilities that conduct mandatory departure medical examinations. These are for workers who are bound for Gulf countries. As mentioned by the Gulf News, this initiative was discussed during a meeting on August 4th at the Department of Migrant Workers Central Office, which is in the Philippines
2. Chris Hemsworth And Elsa Pataky Show Their Abu Dhabi Itinerary
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In the latest video posted by Visit Abu Dhabi, Chris Hemsworth and his wife, Elsa Pataky, are seen taking a tour of Abu Dhabi. Yes, Bahyah Beach, Surf Abu Dhabi, and Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts are just some of the places that were on their itinerary. The couple was also seen taking in the grandeur of the Zayed National History Museum and the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
3. UAE Marks 60 Years Of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s Accession
On Thursday, August 6, the UAE marked the 60th anniversary of the accession of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, who is also the founding father. Yes, on this date in 1966, Sheikh Zayed became the Ruler of Abu Dhabi. He brought along the new era of development. As mentioned by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this historic milestone marks the beginning of the remarkable Journey of progress.
4. SEVEN Abha Entertainment Project Inaugurated In Aseer
Aseer Governor and Chairman of Aseer Development Authority, Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, gave a speech at the inauguration ceremony of SEVEN Abha in Aseer Region. This project is the first entertainment development destination that is being developed by Saudi Entertainment Ventures. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Qiddiya Investment Company. It’s worth mentioning that this project is strategically located within the airport cluster so that it complements the new Abha International Airport project.
5. Riyadh Air Launches Direct Flights To Mumbai
Riyadh Air has launched direct flights to Mumbai. Yes, this marks the airline’s entry into the Indian market. It has become the eighth scheduled destination on the airline’s network just eight weeks after it began its operations back on June 10th. Book tickets for these online on their official website or via the app.
6. Al Sadd Tower In South Batinah Gets New Lease Of Life
The Al Sadd Tower, which is in the wilayat of Al Awabi, South Batinah, has finally completed its restoration. Yes, as revealed by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, which was undertaking this restoration process, it’s worth mentioning that the work strengthened the structure and reinforced the wall base. Talking about the structure, it is located on the main road, and the circular tower is built on a rock outcrop using stone and clay.
7. UAE To Introduce Minimum Taxation Price For E-Cigarettes And Vape
It was recently announced by the UAE that it will be introducing a minimum price at which liquids in the vape and electronic cigarettes will be subject to sin tax rules. Yes, this comes into effect on September 1st. And as revealed by the Ministry of Finance on August 6th, the minimum excise price for the item is at AED1 per millilitre. Moreover, the excise price also represents the minimum value that will be used while calculating the due tax.
8. Riyadh Air To Start Flights To Bangkok
Bangkok is now on our map 🇹🇭
Starting September 2, we’ll connect Riyadh and Bangkok with three weekly flights.
— Riyadh Air | طيران الرياض (@RiyadhAir) August 6, 2026
Riyadh Air announced that, from September 2nd, it will be starting three weekly flights between Riyadh and Bangkok. This announcement comes after it recently started flights to eight new destinations. For those who are not aware, this is the new national carrier of Saudi Arabia.
Also Read: Planning A Louvre Abu Dhabi Visit? A New 217-Key Luxury Hotel Has Just Opened Nearby
9. Qatar Airways Gives A Glimpse Of How It Relocated Six Beluga Whales
Qatar Airways recently relocated six Beluga whales safely across international borders. Sharing a short video on X, it showed how this process really happened. In fact, a specialised team was supporting one of the most remarkable wildlife transport operations. Qatar Airways Cargo was responsible for the safe transportation of these Wales.
10. Farmers Market Festival Launches In Rafha
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture’s Northern border region branch launched the Farmers Market Festival on August 6th. Yes, this aims to support local agricultural production. It is a farmer’s festival that promotes marketing of locally produced agricultural products. This would be done through direct sales outlets. The festival has pavilions that will be displaying dates, vegetables, honey, fruits, and other rural and food products.
With the updates laid out for you, we hope you’re able to stay ahead of the news from across the Middle East region.
Cover Image Courtesy: Riyadh Air/Website
FAQs
What route did Riyadh Air recently start?
Riyadh Air recently started flights to Mumbai.
What are Beluga whales?
Beluga whales are an Arctic and sub-Arctic cetacean.
