From UAE’s Dhu Al Qadah Moon Sighting To New Weekend Market In Dubai, 5 GCC Updates

GCC Updates is back in full force to brighten up your day with 5 top trending news from the region. From travel to unity, the region witnessed a plethora of amazing updates in the last 24 hrs. Here’s a quick guide to glance through to understand what’s happening in the GCC.

5 GCC Updates For You

1. UAE’s Al Halah Region Records 2.0 Magnitude Earthquake

A 2.0 Magnitude Earthquake is recorded in AL HALAH at 21:15, 19/04/2026 “UAE time” According to the NCM “National Seismic Network

— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) April 19, 2026

The National Seismic Network says that a small earthquake with a magnitude of 2.0 hit Al Halah near Fujairah at 9:15 p.m. People didn’t notice the tremor. Al Halah is in the Hajjar Mountains and is known for its historical and natural importance. Gulf News says that the area is about 45 kilometres northwest of Fujairah city and is surrounded by rough mountain terrain. You can get there by Wadi Al Abadilah and Al Khalaybiyah.

2. Dhu Al Qadah Crescent Moon Spotted In Abu Dhabi

Astronomers in Abu Dhabi took a picture of the crescent moon that marked the start of Dhu Al Qadah on April 18 at 10 a.m. from Khatm Observatory. Even though it was close to the sun, the moon was only 16.5 hours old and easy to see. Mohammed Awda and his team helped him take the picture. The sighting also gives hints about upcoming dates. Eid Al Adha is expected to start on May 27, and Arafah Day is likely to be on May 26, which could mean a long weekend in the UAE.

3. BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi Witness UAE Flag-Raising With 1,000+ People

More than 1,000 people from different religions, including Emirati officials and community leaders, came together for a UAE flag-raising ceremony at the BAPS Hindu Mandir. The event, which took place on April 19, celebrated the temple’s reopening to the public on April 14. People gathered in the courtyard to show their support for the UAE’s leadership and to show their unity. Expats and locals stood side by side in a strong show of support.

4. Qatar To Restore International Flights

After some problems, international flights to Qatar have started up again. The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority says that everything is back to normal. After a full review with national agencies to make sure safety and efficiency, the authorities cleared the services. Airlines are slowly getting their schedules back to normal, which should make it easier for people flying in and out of the country to connect and get back to normal travel.

5. Dubai Welcomes A New Weekend Market At Al Manara

Jones the Grocer has opened a new weekend market, making its space a great place to hang out on Sundays. Jones Community Markets is a place where you can find local UAE brands in fashion, home goods, wellness, stationery, and even pet care. The lineup changes every week, so there is always something new to look at. It’s not so much about shopping as it is about slowing down. You can get good food, chill out, and support local businesses all in one place.

Also Read: From Qatar Airways’ Free Flight Changes To UAE Joining WFP Board 5 GCC Updates

6. Dubai RTA Announce Full Opening Of Hessa Street

The Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai has opened the improved Hessa Street project, which makes traffic flow better on one of Dubai’s busiest roads. The road now has four lanes in each direction, up from two, and it goes for 4.5 km between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road. The new interchanges and bigger roads have increased capacity and cut down on travel time, making daily commutes easier for drivers all over the area.

That’s all for GCC Updates today. We will be back with more buzzworthy news tomorrow!

Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/andres Nino from Pexels