The UAE is witnessing major updates this May, including AI-based work permit screening, new banking communication rules, resumed regional flights, enhanced traveller protections, attraction closures, and a possible six-day Eid Al Adha holiday for residents.
In a major relief for expatriates, the United Arab Emirates has allowed residents stranded abroad with expired visas to return home without the usual re-entry requirements. The move comes as part of emergency measures to ease travel difficulties caused by ongoing regional disruptions.
Read MoreA drone-related incident caused a fire near Dubai International Airport, prompting an immediate response from emergency teams. The fire was quickly contained, and authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported. As a precaution, some flights were temporarily affected while officials ensured the safety of passengers and airport operations. The situation was brought under control with swift act
Read MoreThe UAE has launched a unified “smart journey” allowing citizens to renew their passports and Emirates ID cards in a single, streamlined process — cutting processing times by half and eliminating redundant paperwork. The new service reflects the nation’s push for digital-first governance under the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme.
Read MoreSaudi Arabia’s new unified visa platform now allows UAE and other GCC residents to apply online for a single-entry or multiple-entry eVisa — streamlining travel for tourism, family visits, and Umrah. The system promises faster approvals, simpler documentation, and greater convenience for Gulf-based expatriates.
Read MoreFlight cancellations, volcanic ash and other travel disruptions are prompting a surge in travel-insurance signups among UAE residents. Demand has jumped around 45% for Q4 2025, as travellers increasingly view insurance as essential protection rather than a luxury.
Read MoreDubai is tightening its laws on lost and abandoned property, introducing fines up to AED 200,000 for those who fail to hand in found items or try to keep them illegally. The updated framework combines stern penalties with incentives, aiming to reinforce trust in lost-and-found processes and discourage misuse of recovered assets.
Read MoreDubai has approved its largest-ever Dh302.7 billion budget for 2026–2028, prioritising major investments in social services, infrastructure, security, and digital government. Residents are expected to feel the impact in their daily lives through enhanced healthcare, better commutes, improved public services, and easier access to government support.
Read MoreDubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has launched a significantly upgraded nol Pay app, bringing a sleek new interface and powerful features — including family card management, automatic top-ups, balance alerts, and digital nol cards for compatible Samsung and Huawei devices.
Read MoreGet ready to plan your vacations early — 2026 is shaping up to be a rewarding year for UAE residents, with multiple long weekends and extended breaks expected across the calendar. From Eid holidays to National Day, this forecast offers a perfect balance between work and rest for families, travellers, and employees.
Read MoreDubai Design Week 2025 transformed the Dubai Design District into a playground of innovation, sustainability and cultural expression.From immersive installations and art pavilions to talks with global creators, this year’s edition celebrated design as a connector — bridging communities, ideas and creativity across borders.
Read MoreCME Group, the world’s largest derivatives exchange, has opened a new office in the Dubai International Financial Centre under DFSA regulation. Led by Sharif Jaghman, the office will oversee Middle East and Africa operations as hedge funds and investors increasingly flock to Dubai’s growing financial hub.
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