If keeping up with the updates from across the GCC region sounds tedious to you, then you are in for some brilliant news. We say that because we have made a list of some important updates from across the region that we think you will want to read, if you wish to stay ahead of the news. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi and beyond, here are some important updates that we think you will want to read up on!
GCC Updates
1. NCM Predicts Rain In The UAE
As predicted by the National Centre for Meteorology, some parts of the UAE could experience rain from November 16th to November 19th. As predicted in a forecast by the NCM, there can be partly cloudy to cloudy conditions during the period. There might even be chances of rain over islands and some coastal and northern areas.
2. Saudi Arabia Deport Over 11,400 People
The security forces in Saudi Arabia have arrested 11,952 people. They were arrested for violating residency, labour and security regulations during a weeklong inspection. This took place across the Kingdom, and the arrests were made during joint inspections. Out of these, 6,163 people were detained for violating residency regulations.
3. Abu Dhabi City Municipality To Plant 5000 Shades Trees
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تدرون أن بلدية مدينة أبوظبي تستهدف زراعة 5,000 شجرة ظل خلال عام 2026 على امتداد المماشي والممرات؟تشمل المبادرة زراعة 1,800 شجرة في مواقع جديدة داخل جزيرة أبوظبي، و3,200 شجرة في مواقع مختلفة بالبر الرئيسي، بما يسهم في توفير الظل الطبيعي، وتحسين جودة الهواء، وتعزيز التنوع الحيوي، وإثراء المشهد الحضري.
نحو مدينة أكثر خضرة واستدامة.🌿
Did you know that Abu Dhabi City Municipality aims to plant 5,000 shade trees along walkways and pathways in 2026?
The initiative includes 1,800 trees across new locations on Abu Dhabi Island and 3,200 trees across various locations on the mainland, helping provide shade, improve air quality, support biodiversity and enhance the urban landscape.
Towards a greener, more sustainable city.🌿
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#بلدية_مدينة_أبوظبي #عام_الأسرة
#ADM_Municipality #YearOfTheFamily— بلدية مدينة أبوظبي (@AbuDhabi_ADM) November 14, 2026
As revealed by Abu Dhabi City Municipality, they aim to plant 5,000 shaded trees, which would be along walkways and pathways. This initiative includes planting 1,800 trees in new locations on Abu Dhabi Island. There are 3,200 trees planned in several other locations on the mainland. The trees will provide natural shade, improve air quality, enrich the urban landscape, and even enhance biodiversity.
4. Residents Plan For Extended Break For Oman National Day
Oman’s National Day holiday is on November 25th and 26th. As it offers a four-day break, travel agencies have reported that residents are planning an extended break. They are planning a change of scene by travelling to nearby countries, while some are opting for a family outing. This is the official holiday of the Sultanate of Oman, which celebrates the day of the founding of the Al Bu Said dynasty.
5. Sheikh Zayed Festival Underway In Al Wathba Region Until March
The Sheikh Zayed Festival is running until March 13th in the Al Wathba region. During the festival, a diverse programme of events will be taking place. It includes Union Parade and Union Day celebrations. There will also be Al Wathba Wonderland, Dinosaur Park, carnival attractions, folk performances, children’s theatre, and more. There will also be several pavilions that cover heritage and traditions. With a global food market, foodies are also going to be in for a treat.
Also Read: Dubai: Private Schools To Report Students Who Miss 5 Or More Days Without A Valid Reason!
6. Dubai RTA Launching 5-Star System
The five-star system for rating taxi company performance reflects #RTA’s drive to instil a culture of excellence in the sector and to turn indicators of customer happiness, safety, sustainability and digital transformation into key drivers of service development.
The system also supports #Dubai’s transition towards smart and sustainable mobility, strengthens the sector’s readiness to keep pace with growing demand for transport services, and consolidates the emirate’s standing among the world’s best cities for the quality and efficiency of urban mobility.
— RTA (@rta_dubai) November 15, 2026
Dubai RTA has announced that it has launched a five-star system. This is to rate the performance of taxi companies in Dubai. The system aims to improve sector efficiency, enhance the customer journey, and encourage operating companies to adopt smart solutions.
We hope you’re able to keep up with these updates from the region.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/rta_dubai
