From Qatar Dust Storms To Abu Dhabi’s Traffic Plan For Eid, 5 GCC Updates For You

With Eid Al Adha around the corner, several GCC countries are rolling out new plans, warnings and public updates as roads, malls and travel routes start getting busier than usual. From extra buses in Sharjah to weather alerts in Qatar, authorities across the region seem to be preparing early for the holiday rush.

5 GCC Updates For Today

1. Sharjah Adds Thousands Of Extra Eid Trips As Holiday Travel Picks Up

Sharjah’s Roads and Transport Authority has announced thousands of additional intercity bus trips during the Eid holidays to help manage the expected travel crowds.

The authority says 155 buses will operate nearly 9,760 trips connecting Sharjah with other emirates. Waiting times during peak hours are also being shortened to around five minutes on some routes, which will definitely help commuters trying to avoid long queues.

Marine transport between Sharjah and Dubai will continue too, with ferries running several times a day during the break.

Inside the emirate, more than 100 public buses will continue operating across multiple routes and hundreds of bus stops. But Route 22 heading towards Souq Al Haraj will stay suspended during the Eid period.

2. Abu Dhabi Police Step Up Patrols Before Busy Eid Weekend

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Police have activated a large-scale Eid security and traffic plan covering Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain and Al Dhafra.

Extra patrols and emergency teams will be stationed around parks, malls, prayer grounds and entertainment areas expected to attract large crowds over the holiday. Authorities also confirmed that emergency response centres will continue operating 24 hours a day throughout Eid.

But officials are also warning residents against risky behaviour on roads.

Police urged drivers to avoid speeding, illegal races and reckless stunts often linked to holiday celebrations. Families were also reminded to supervise children closely and avoid unsafe fireworks use during Eid gatherings.

3. Dubai Police Warn Influencers Against Promoting Fake Products Online

#News | Dubai Police Warns of Advertising Counterfeit Goods on Social Media Platforms

Details:https://t.co/SDQlIpZNVH#AntiEconomicCrime#IntellectualProperty pic.twitter.com/P8MO6blsNl

— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) May 23, 2026

In Dubai, authorities issued a separate warning aimed at influencers, online sellers and social media users promoting counterfeit goods.

Dubai Police said fake watches, perfumes, fashion items and other products are increasingly being advertised online through social platforms disguised as legitimate deals or collaborations.

Officials warned that promoting or selling counterfeit products could lead to legal action. They also urged content creators and online businesses to verify suppliers, invoices and licences before agreeing to advertising partnerships.

For many influencers, it’s also a reminder that online promotions now come with much stricter accountability than before.

4. UAE Fatwa Council Shares Eid Sacrifice Rules

Ahead of Eid Al Adha, the UAE Fatwa Council has also clarified the religious conditions for sacrificial animals.

Authorities said animals used for sacrifice must be healthy and free from obvious illness or injuries. Only approved livestock such as sheep, goats, cattle and camels qualify under Islamic rules.

Minimum age requirements were also outlined, including cattle being at least three years old and camels five years old or older.

Also Read: Bolt Starting Ride-Hailing Services In Abu Dhabi To Gulf Air Restoring 75% Of Flights; 5 GCC Updates

5 Qatar Faces Dusty Weekend Weather

Over in Qatar, residents are being advised to prepare for strong winds and dusty conditions through the weekend.

The Department of Meteorology says northwesterly winds could exceed 32 knots in some areas, reducing visibility and causing blowing dust during daytime hours. Offshore areas may also experience rough seas and high waves.

Doha temperatures are expected to climb close to 39°C as well.

So between holiday traffic, weather alerts and travel plans, the GCC is heading into a particularly busy Eid weekend.

Which one of these GCC Updates were you aware of?

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