If you are constantly on the prowl, looking for important news pieces from across the GCC region, then you’re no stranger to the fact that this is not an easy task. After all, keeping up with new developments from across the GCC can be quite tough, given that there are new updates coming in every single day. To ensure you are always on top of the news, we have made a list of some important news pieces that you absolutely wouldn’t want to miss.
GCC Updates
1. UAE Leaders Wish A Blessed Month Of Ramadan
The UAE leaders, like His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is the Crown Prince of Dubai has extended their greetings for Ramadan. During the month, people fast, offer prayers and observe charity. Keeping up with the values of generosity, compassion, and togetherness, he extended his greetings and wishes for blessings during the sacred month for the continued growth of the nation and people.
2. Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament Begins
As revealed by the Dubai Media Office, the 13th edition of Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament has begun from February 18th. This will be taking place until March 7th 2026. The tournament will be taking place at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex, and it is being organised by the Dubai Sports Council. As it happens, it has attracted more than 60,000 amateur, professional, and special needs athletes from different nationalities and age groups.
3. Riyadh Metro Reveals Ramadan Timings
Riyadh Metro has revealed its Ramadan timings. As it happens, every day from Sunday to Thursday, it will be running from 8 AM to 2:30 AM. On Fridays, it will be running from 11 AM to 3 AM and on Saturdays. It will be running from 11 AM to 2:30 AM. Not only the metro, but also the public transport buses have revealed operational timings. It will be operating daily from 6:30 AM to 3 AM.
4. Qatar Announces Public Sector Working Hours
Qatar has officially announced its public sector working hours. Yes, government employees during the month of Ramadan will work five hours per day. This decision has been issued in Circular No.1 of 2026. The issuance comes after a proposal from the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau. So, basically, civil servants across different ministries of government agencies and public institutions will be working from 9 AM to 2 PM. And employees can report as late as 10 AM, given they complete the full five-hour working day.
Also Read: Abu Dhabi Has A New Address For All-Day Mediterranean Dining That’s Now Open!
5. Oman Air Launches Direct Flights To Russian City
Oman Air has announced the launch of direct flights to Sochi in Russia. It will begin on July 2nd, 2026, and the new route will be operated weekly. Offering seamless connectivity to black sea resort city, it is a beautiful destination that has been dubbed as a Russian Riviera. However, this is not the only flight to Russia; it already offers 11 weekly flights between Moscow and Muscat. So with the addition of this new flight, flying between the two countries just got a lot easier for vacationers
Through these updates, we hope you’re able to stay ahead of the news from the GCC region.
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