If you are someone who is constantly on the lookout for news pieces in the Middle East, then you have clicked on the right article. We have made a list of some important updates from across the GCC region that you might want to know about, if you want to stay ahead of these new developments.
GCC Updates
1. Drowning Cases In Oman Rise By 300% In 2024
It was recently revealed that Oman has recorded a rise of 300% in the drowning incidents in 2024. This comes especially during the sweltering summer months of the country, and wadis have topped this list of drowning sites. Seas, waterways, agricultural ponds, wells, rain-formed valley streams, and reservoirs have also closely followed behind.
2. Solo Drivers Make UAE Roads Busier
Going by the findings of RoadSafety UAE, 8 out of 10, which is about 82% of the respondents, witnessed aggressive or rude behaviour on the road. It was revealed that only 29% of the respondents can deal with the traffic congestion. Dependency on the car is very high! As a result, the majority of the road users take their own vehicle and often travel alone in the car, which marks a rise in the number of vehicles leading to congestion.
3. Dubai Ranks At The Seventh Position In Julius Baer’s 2025 Report
Dubai Ranks 7th Globally
in Julius Baer’s 2025 Wealth & Lifestyle Report pic.twitter.com/Sv7o5gFyTo— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 14, 2025
According to the Wealth & Lifestyle report by Julius Baer for the year 2025, Dubai has stood at the seventh position globally. This is a great moment as it has marked a rise from its previously held 12th position in 2024. As it happens, Singapore has retained its position at the top it the most expensive city in the world.
4. New UAE Visa Rule For Omani Expats
Expats in Oman will now have to produce their confirmed hotel bookings and return flight tickets to obtain a 30-day UAE tourist visa. However, Omani nationals do not require a visa to visit the UAE. Previously, applicants only needed a valid passport and a photo. However, now going by the new regulation, tourist and visit visa applicants will have to upload their hotel booking confirmations and return tickets.
Also Read: From Almaty To Tblisi, Etihad Airways Announces 7 New Routes Expanding Its Network
5. Saudia Transported 17.5 M+ Passengers In First Half Of 2025
As revealed by SPA, Saudia, which is the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, transported over 17.5 million passengers in the first half of 2025. This marks a 7.2% increase in the volume of passengers as compared to the same period in 2024.
So, with these updates laid out for you, we hope you’re able to stay ahead of the news in the GCC region.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/obiasjo
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