The Middle East never really slows down. One minute it’s about how kids get to school, the next it’s air taxis, alcohol laws, and even earthquakes. Here’s a clear, grounded look at the biggest Middle East updates, and why they actually matter to everyday life.
10 Middle East Updates For You
1. Dubai’s School Commute Gets A High-Tech Upgrade
Dubai parents know the morning school run can feel like a daily endurance test. That’s why the new pilot shared school transport service launched by Dubai Roads and Transport Authority and Yango Group is turning heads.
Rolled out on January 14, 2026, the service uses luxury SUVs to pool students aged 14 and above from nearby neighbourhoods and multiple schools. The idea is simple but smart. Fewer cars, safer routes, and lower costs for families. Live tracking, real-time trip updates, and constant monitoring mean parents stay in the loop.
2. Dubai Air Taxis Are To Be Launched In 2026
Dubai plans to launch commercial air taxi services by the end of 2026. According to the RTA, California-based Joby Aviation will operate fully electric air taxis designed for dense urban areas.
These aircraft can fly up to 160km at speeds of 320km/h. They’re quiet, emission-free, and built for short city hops. After a successful test flight in June 2025, Joby now holds exclusive operating rights in Dubai for six years.
3. Dubai Police Sound the Alarm on Dangerous Online Trends
Dubai Police have issued a strong warning about deadly social media challenges targeting teenagers, as mentioned in a report by Arabian Business. Authorities say viral trends like choking games, breath-holding stunts, and the so-called “skull breaker” challenge are anything but harmless. These acts can lead to serious injuries or worse. Police are urging parents to talk openly with teens, stay alert to online behaviour, and report harmful content.
4. Texas de Brazil Diner Shuts Down Across The UAE
Popular churrasco chain Texas de Brazil has officially closed all its UAE branches, according to Lovin Dubai. At its peak, the brand ran three busy locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, often packed with regulars. There were no obvious signs of trouble, which made the sudden shutdown even more surprising. Confirmation came after shuttered outlets were photographed, and Google Maps listed all branches as permanently closed.
5. Cairo Businesses Pass Alcohol Compliance Checks
Over in the US, the Cairo Police Department, working with Georgia’s Department of Revenue Alcohol and Tobacco Division, conducted unannounced alcohol licence checks on January 14, 2025.
The result? Full compliance, no violations or underage sales as mentioned by Walb. Authorities praised local business owners for operating responsibly and said these checks play a key role in public safety.
6. Ras Al Khaimah Lowers Legal Drinking Age
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority plans to reduce the legal drinking age from 21 to 18. This will be reflected across all licensed venues according to The Hotelier Middle East.
The order, dated January 14, 2026, is implemented retroactively from January 1. Hotels, restaurants, beach clubs, and nightlife venues must now update staff training and internal policies.
7. Qatar Braces for Rough Weather At Sea
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The Department of Meteorology of Qatar has warned of strong winds and high seas until 6am Friday.
Inshore conditions will stay cold with some clouds and dust. Offshore winds may gust up to 34 knots, pushing sea heights to 11 feet at times. Visibility will range between 4 and 9 kilometres.
8. Qatar Kite Festival Paints the Doha Sky
The Qatar Kite Festival has transformed the skies above Old Doha Port, with teams from 20 countries filling the air with colour.
According to Peninsula Qatar, Despite windy conditions, families turned up in large numbers for food stalls, kids’ zones, and waterfront views of the Doha skyline. Running until January 24, 2026, the festival adds energy to Qatar’s winter calendar and strengthens its tourism appeal.
9. Ancient Seafaring Comes Alive In Oman
History sailed into Muscat as INSV Kaundinya completed an 18-day maiden voyage from Porbandar to Port Sultan Qaboos. According to Daily Mirror, The arrival celebrated centuries-old maritime and cultural ties between India and Oman.
Also Read: Beast Land Opening In Riyadh To Extra Busy Travel Season In Dubai; 10 Middle East Updates For You
10. Southeastern Turkiye Felt 4.0 Earthquake
Tremors were felt near Göksun in southeastern Turkey on the epicentre on January 16, 2026, with light shaking reported in Kahramanmaraş. It was not felt in Ankara, but it served as a reminder of the region’s seismic reality, according to Volcano Discovery.
From air taxis and smarter school transport to cultural festivals, policy shifts, and safety warnings, the Middle East updates continue to change faster than you imagine.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/mediaphotos from Getty Images Signature, Visit Qatar/ Website
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