From government desks to arena stages, the UAE never runs out of stories that make you double-take. This week’s GCC updates has it all: a digital shake-up, a neighbourhood mystery, a cartoon celebrity, a glowing skyline, and one of the biggest voices in music.
5 GCC Updates For You
1. UAE Keeps Physical Service Desks Open
The UAE Cabinet has confirmed something residents will welcome: federal service centres will keep in-person counters running while digital services expand. At UAE service centres, you won’t just be left staring at a screen and hoping for the best. Staff will actually walk people through apps and forms, especially seniors and those who need a bit of extra support. And honestly, who hasn’t felt like throwing their phone across the room after the fifth “wrong password” pop-up? By keeping real people in the loop alongside the digital tools, the government is making sure everyone, tech-savvy or not, gets the help they need without the stress.
2. Snake Sightings Put Dubai Community On Alert
Over in Dubai’s Remraam community, residents have been on edge after spotting snakes in the Al Ramth cluster. Videos of vipers on balconies and doorsteps quickly circulated online, sparking concern among families.
The municipality has stepped in with traps, tree trimming, and regular inspections. Come on, we all know rumours spread faster than the reptiles themselves, but at least neighbours can breathe a little easier now.
3. Peppa Pig Heads To Abu Dhabi
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Families, get ready. Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out! lands at Etihad Arena from 30 January to 1 February 2026. After her Dubai debut in 2023, Peppa, George, and friends are back with songs, sandcastles, and, of course, muddy puddles.
Kids will squeal, parents will hum along (whether they like it or not), and for three days, Abu Dhabi will be all about one pink pig.
4. Burj Khalifa Lights Up For PM Modi
Burj Khalifa – Dubai, UAE
PM Narendra Modi’s 75th Birthday was marked in a grand style as wishes LIT UP on the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai. pic.twitter.com/GZEFM3Lgcd
— Kanwaljit Arora (@mekarora) September 17, 2025
Dubai’s Burj Khalifa turned into a giant birthday card this week, flashing images and greetings for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday.
The gesture highlighted India–UAE ties, with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also sending warm wishes. After all, nothing says “happy birthday” quite like having your face beamed across the tallest tower in the world.
Also Read:From Flyadeal Route Expansion To Tesla’s New Abu Dhabi Experience Centre; 5 GCC Updates
5. Lewis Capaldi To Perform At Saadiyat Nights
Music fans, take note. Scottish singer Lewis Capaldi is packing his soulful voice and heading to Abu Dhabi this January. He’ll take centre stage at Saadiyat Nights on 17 January 2026, and if his past shows are anything to go by, the crowd’s in for goosebumps. Thousands of fans belting along under the stars. Not a bad way to start the year, right? With Saadiyat Island as the backdrop, it’s set to be a night where raw vocals meet a stunning setting, and tickets will no doubt fly fast.
That’s the GCC updates for you, part business, part spectacle, and always moving. Next week? Probably something just as unexpected.
Cover Image Courtesy: Kamaljit Arora/X, Lewis Capaldi/Instagram
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First Published: September 18, 2025 5:13 PM