CT Quickies: UAE Warning Against Scammers To Hail’s 33rd Rank On The Smart City Index; 10 Middle East Updates

Keeping up with the updates from the Middle East is not an easy task. To ensure you are always ahead of the news, we have made a list of some important updates for you. From Kuwait to the UAE, here are some important updates that you might not want to miss.

Middle East Updates

1. Remote Work Allowed For Mums In The Government Sector By Sharjah

Sharjah recently announced that remote work has been introduced for employed mothers in the government sector. As mentioned in a report of the Gulf News, it aims to support work-life balance and family stability. Through the new policy, working mothers with children in school or nurseries can work remotely.

2. Qatar Airways Releases Revised Flight Schedules

Recently, Qatar Airways published its latest revised schedule. And it reflects the gradual increase in flights to and from Doha. This is to over 120 destinations by mid-May 2026. As it happens, the flights are to and from Doha through dedicated flight corridors.

3. More Unsettled Weather Forecast For The UAE

According to the MCM, there could be variable weather conditions over the UAE in the coming days. Though the conditions are expected to be fair to partly cloudy for today, there could be increased humidity overnight into Friday. However, from Friday to Sunday, the conditions may remain partly cloudy, and there could be continued chances of fog and mist during early morning.

4. Turkish Airlines Adds Timișoara as Its Fourth Destination in Romania

This is the flag carrier of Turkey, and it will be flying to Timișoara. This is the fourth destination in Romania! The development follows the launch of flights to other destinations of Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Constanta. The new destination will be served by five weekly flights.

5. Hail Ranks 33rd On The Smart City Index Globally

Hail, which is in Saudi Arabia, has ranked 33rd on the Smart City Index globally. This ranking is amongst 148 cities worldwide and is according to the rankings of the International Institute for Management Development (IMD). It should be noted that this index is based on a comprehensive assessment, which incorporates residents’ feedback.

Also Read: Dubai: Transport Fee Exemptions & Discounts Announced By RTA For Key Groups!

6. South Batinah Governorate Sees Rising Tourism

As reported by Muscat Daily, this governorate is seeing rising tourism after heavy rains filled the traditional aflaj. Not to mention, while wadis were also revived! From Al Hoqain’s waterfalls to Wadi Mistal’s green oases, the spots are known for offering beautiful retreats for families.

7. Muscat Hosts Third Stage Of The 2026 Global Champions Arabian Tour

Hosting the third stage of the 2026 Global Champions Arabian Tour, the tournament showcases elite purebreds. The event reinforces the sultanate’s position as a global hub when it comes to equestrian heritage and cultural excellence.

8. Gulf Air Adds Istanbul, Athens And Thiruvananthapuram Flight

As reported by the Bahrain News Agency, Gulf Air, which is the national carrier of the country, has announced expansion of its temporary operations from King Fahd International Airport. This includes to the destinations of: Istanbul, Athens, and Thiruvananthapuram. With the temporary closure of Bahrain’s airspace, the three new destinations will complement the airline’s existing temporary services from the Ma’am.

9. UAE Launches Basma 15 Initiative

Basma 15 is a proactive government initiative which aims to simplify identity services for students. This is especially for those aged 15 and above and brings the procedures directly to the school. It has been launched by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.

10. UAE Warns Against Scam Messages

The UAE has warned against scam messages that impersonate the ministry. Scammers tend to obtain personal information. In the message, scammers claim that the recipient of the message has committed legal violations, and they are asked to follow urgent instructions under the threat of penalties or legal action.

So, if you have also been keeping up with these updates, we hope you are able to stay ahead of the news and what’s happening around you.

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