From Oman-China Direct Flights To Glass Beam Band’s UAE Debut In Dubai, 5 GCC Updates For You

From business news and philanthropy to travel chaos and live music, the GCC never sleeps. Here are five GCC updates that actually matter this week, the ones you’ll want to tell your friends about.

GCC Updates You Can’t Miss

1. UAE Mourns Business Icon Hussain Khansaheb

تعازينا القلبية لأسرة رجل الأعمال الراحل حسين خانصاحب .. أحد أهم رواد الأعمال في الإمارات والذي تأسست شركتهم منذ العام 1935 … كان رائداً في مشاريع البنية التحتية .. وما يخلد ذكره أنه كان رائداً في المشاريع المجتمعية والإنسانية والخيرية ..

له جهود في بناء مساكن الأسر المتعففة… pic.twitter.com/RqJAJRElb1

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) September 12, 2025

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared his sorrow over the passing of Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb. But let’s be honest, Khansaheb wasn’t just a businessman; he was the kind of person who made philanthropy look effortless. Charitable projects, community support, humanitarian initiatives, you name it. In a world where business often chases profit alone, his legacy is a reminder that heart and hustle can go hand in hand.

2. Hardee’s UAE Is Fighting Food Waste

Food waste is a headache everywhere, and the GCC is no exception. Hardee’s UAE decided to step in with a $44,000 initiative, teaming up with the UAE Food Bank. Fresh surplus meals will now reach those who really need them. Considering the country throws away 3.27 million tons of food every year, much of it from hotels and restaurants, this is a pretty big deal. Truth be told, it’s moves like this that show sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it can actually change lives.

3. Glass Beams Brings Hypnotic Beats To Dubai

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Glass Beams (@glass_beams)

Music lovers, circle Saturday, October 25, on your calendar. Melbourne’s Glass Beams are landing in the UAE for the first time. Known for their beaded masks and a wild mix of Indian classical, psych-funk, and deep grooves, their shows are as visual as they are musical. Tickets start at Dhs350 for general entry and Dhs650 for VIP. Founded during Melbourne’s lockdown by Rajan Silva, their EP Mahal promises live jams that pull you in. Come on, we all know Dubai nightlife needs acts like this.

4. Travel Chaos Between Qatar and Bahrain

If you were flying between Doha and Bahrain recently, you might have been left staring at your phone in disbelief. Gulf Air cancelled two flights, GFA526 and GFA527  and suddenly, schedules went out the window. Families, business travellers, tourists, everyone felt it. Overcrowded terminals and delayed connections were just the start. In practice, one cancellation often feels like a mini disaster. Gulf Air is helping people rebook, but seats are limited, and frustration is high.

Also Read: RAK Trial Of eVTOL To KHDA’s New Measure For Teachers; 5 GCC Updates For You

5. Oman to Connect Directly to China

Starting November 30, Muscat will link directly with Beijing via China Eastern Airlines. Twice a week, on Sundays and Wednesdays, the Airbus A330-300 will take off with 299 passengers. Whether it’s a business trip, a quick getaway, or just that travel itch you can’t ignore, this route makes life a lot easier. Truth be told, direct flights like these aren’t just handy, they’re essential for keeping tourism and trade buzzing in the region.

Bottom Line
From generous philanthropists and sustainability efforts to unforgettable concerts and travel expansions, the GCC keeps moving fast. These updates are the pulse of the Middle East, the stuff that shapes life here, whether you’re a local

Cover Image Courtesy:Glass Beams, China Eastern Airlines/ Instagram