Saudi Arabia has introduced strict regulations on tobacco sales, including bans on tobacco shops near mosques and schools, mandatory licensing, and compliance with safety standards. The rules prohibit sales to minors, promotions, and unapproved packaging. Retailers must meet operational and design standards, with municipalities enforcing compliance through penalties and educational signage to improve public health and safety.

UAE's national football team is gearing up for crucial World Cup qualifiers in Doha against Oman and Qatar. To boost fan support, telecom giant e& is offering free roaming data, while the UAE Football Association has arranged private jet transport for supporters.

Karwa Chauth 2025 will be observed across the UAE on Friday, October 10. Married women will fast from sunrise to moonrise, following traditional rituals such as Sargi, puja, and moon-sighting ceremonies. The festival celebrates marital love and prayers for husbands' well-being. Communities across the UAE will also host cultural events, fostering a sense of unity among the Indian diaspora.

Astonishing new research reveals Karnak Temple was built on a natural river island over 3,000 years ago, a 'primeval mound' symbolizing creation. Geoarchaeological studies uncovered this sacred landscape, showing how ancient Egyptians deliberately shaped the environment to align their grandest religious center with cosmic beliefs. This discovery rewrites Karnak's origins.

John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, has been granted Saudi citizenship for his significant contributions to sustainable tourism. With over four decades of experience, Pagano has led major projects like The Red Sea Project and Amaala, aligning with Saudi Arabias Vision 2030. His leadership and commitment to sustainability earned him global recognition in tourism development.

Saudi Arabia has introduced stricter municipal violation rules, with fines reaching up to SR2 million for serious offenses. Violations are categorized as serious or non-serious, with penalties escalating for repeat offenders. The new rules also grant municipalities more power to seize property and disconnect services. Digital tools like Momtathl and Efaa will streamline enforcement and improve transparency.

From October 10-14, the UAE will experience cooler temperatures, rain, and dusty winds due to a shifting weather system. Northern and eastern regions, including Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Al Ain, are most likely to see light to moderate rain, with occasional heavy showers. Winds may kick up dust, reducing visibility, while sea conditions could become rough.

Laszlo Krasznahorkai, the Hungarian novelist known for his labyrinthine sentences and apocalyptic vision, has won the 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature. The Swedish Academy recognized his body of work for confronting chaos and finding meaning through art. His novels, often bleakly comic and hypnotically long, explore despair, beauty, and endurance in a world teetering on collapse.

Eight Bangladeshi workers from the Chattogram region died in a tragic road accident near Duqm, Oman, when their microbus collided with a fishing container truck. The driver was critically injured and hospitalized. The Bangladesh Social Club confirmed the victims identities, and the embassy is handling repatriation. Authorities have detained a man for filming the accident scene, with legal action ongoing.

Students in the UAE will benefit from a new 9-day mid-term break starting October 13, 2025, as announced by the Ministry of Education. This extended pause aims to reduce academic pressure and promote student well-being, offering families ample time for local exploration and relaxation.

Students in the UAE will benefit from a new 9-day mid-term break starting October 13, 2025, as announced by the Ministry of Education. This extended pause aims to reduce academic pressure and promote student well-being, offering families ample time for local exploration and relaxation.

Dubai has launched the City Inspector initiative to certify municipal inspectors across 14 technical fields. In its first phase, 63 Emiratis were certified through a professional diploma. The programme standardizes inspections, grants judicial authority, and integrates smart technologies to streamline processes, enhance compliance, and improve service qualityreinforcing Dubais commitment to efficient, proactive urban governance.

Bruno Fernandes has reaffirmed his commitment to Manchester United, rejecting lucrative offers from Saudi Pro League clubs. The Portuguese midfielder is focused on the club's long-term project and aims to secure Champions League football next season. Fernandes remains a key player, recently reaching a century of goals for the Red Devils.

Bahrain's University of Bahrain has entered the prestigious Times Higher Education World University Rankings. This marks a significant achievement for the Kingdom's higher education sector. The university's inclusion highlights its progress in research and academic excellence. This global recognition is expected to boost international partnerships and opportunities for students and graduates.

Syria is introducing a new series of minimalist banknotes in six denominations, completely free of images, portraits, or national symbols. The redesign aims to improve clarity, enhance verification, and reflect a modern monetary identity. The Central Bank insists this is a technical update, not a monetary expansion, with measures in place to maintain price stability and prevent inflation.

Abu Dhabi's education department has overhauled its student discipline policy, banning ten punitive measures and introducing a four-level offense system. Schools will now focus on guidance and support, with eleven permissible actions like warnings and community service. This aims to cultivate a respectful learning environment, prioritizing student well-being and positive conduct.

Dubai is undertaking a massive $35 billion expansion of Al Maktoum International (DWC), transforming it into a city-scale airport. This project will eventually feature five runways and capacity for over 150 million passengers annually, aiming to become Dubai's primary aviation hub and absorb operations from DXB over the next decade.

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabias new national carrier, begins its first international route to London Heathrow on October 26 using a leased 787-9. Initial flights are limited to staff and affiliates as part of an operational trial phase. Public ticket sales will open later, following delivery of the airlines own aircraft and final readiness evaluations.

Riyadh Metro has introduced new rules and fines to maintain cleanliness and safety, with penalties ranging from SAR100 for minor infractions like eating to significant fines and criminal charges for vandalism and major safety violations. Commuters are advised to validate tickets, avoid food and smoking on trains, and respect seating rules to stay fine-free.

Rashid Lumunye arrived in Dubai at 20, jobless and unknown. Seven years later, he's a Golden Visa holder, a globe-trotting content creator, and a self-taught filmmaker shaped by rejection, visa runs, and relentless self-investment. His story, now viral, isn't just personal triumph it's a sharp reflection of how Dubai quietly rewards ambition, grit, and proof of effort.

Chinese doctors achieved a medical breakthrough with the world's first published pig liver transplant. A 71-year-old patient received a genetically modified pig liver, offering vital temporary support. This procedure provided critical insights into xenotransplantation. It demonstrated the potential of pig organs to bridge the gap for patients awaiting human transplants. The experiment offers hope for many worldwide.

Omar Yaghi, born in 1965 in Amman to a refugee family, rose from humble beginnings to become a world-renowned chemist and the first Saudi Nobel laureate in Chemistry. Renowned for pioneering reticular chemistry, his groundbreaking work on metalorganic frameworks addresses global challenges like water scarcity and carbon capture, earning him over 300 publications and international acclaim.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is launching three weekly non-stop flights to Damascus starting October 28, 2025, making travel between the UAE and Syria significantly easier and more affordable. Fares are expected to range from AED 700-900 one-way, with early booking discounts available.

Dubais Diwali 2025 shopping scene is packed with gold giveaways, festive discounts, and high-value raffles across jewellery stores, textile markets, and malls citywide. From winning up to AED150,000 in vouchers to scoring free gold coins and fashion deals, the Festival of Lights brings unbeatable offers. Participating outlets span Deira, Karama, Meena Bazaar, and major mallscheck VisitDubai.com for full updates.

University students in the UAE can now access Google Gemini Pro for free for one year, a cutting-edge AI platform designed to enhance learning and research. This initiative, part of the UAE's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, empowers students with advanced tools like Gemini 2.5 Pro and NotebookLM. Registration is open until December 9, 2025, requiring verification through SheerID.

Qatar's new Law No. 25 of 2025 introduces significant reforms for government employees, effective January 1, 2026. Key changes include an annual QAR 12,000 marriage allowance for Qatari couples, performance-based salary raises up to 150% of grade allowance, and enhanced family benefits like increased emergency leave and extended maternity leave.

Dubai's Diwali 2025 celebrations run from October 17 to 25, featuring dazzling fireworks at Al Seef and Global Village, a cultural Noor Festival, and vibrant events at Global Village's Diwali Mela. With live shows, food, shopping, and family fun, the city embraces the Festival of Lights with tradition, spectacle, and community spirit across multiple days and iconic locations.

Initially criticized as monstrous and useless, the Eiffel Tower's survival was secured by its creator, Gustave Eiffel. He transformed the structure into a hub for scientific research and radio transmissions, proving its practical value. These vital scientific uses led to a 70-year permit extension, saving the iconic landmark from demolition.

Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone star in Abu Dhabi Tourisms latest promotional video, which has quickly gained attention for its stunning visuals of Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The video marks their first joint campaign for the emirate, engaging Indian travelers by showcasing Abu Dhabis rich culture, family-friendly sites, and warm hospitality.

On October 7, 2025, the UAE will witness the rare Hunter Supermoon, appearing 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual. From deserts to mountains and beaches, prime viewing spots across the country offer stunning experiences. Organized events and natural locations provide opportunities to enjoy this spectacular celestial event in clear, dark skies under expert guidance.

Egypt's former Tourism Minister, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, is poised to make history as the first Arab candidate nominated for UNESCO Director-General. His strong nomination by the Executive Board now awaits a final vote from member states in November. El-Enany, an Egyptologist and heritage expert, aims to champion global heritage and intercultural understanding.

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has issued a royal directive opening Masjid Al-Qiblatain in Madinah 24 hours a day, effective October 6, 2025. This landmark decision ensures continuous access for Muslims to pray and reflect at the historic mosque, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to spiritual devotion and accessibility for all.

Emirates has launched a state-of-the-art, $8 million Hospitality Training Centre in Dubai to elevate cabin crew service to Michelin-inspired standards. Designed to train over 10,000 crew by year-end, the facility features fine dining simulations, wine training, and immersive service courses. It reflects Emirates commitment to delivering world-class luxury and personalized experiences to passengers worldwide.

Saudi Arabia now allows Muslims with any valid visa type to perform Umrah, expanding access under Vision 2030. This move simplifies pilgrimage procedures and supports religious tourism. Alongside, the new Nusuk Umrah digital platform offers instant permits, customizable packages, and easy booking, making the Umrah journey more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly for pilgrims worldwide.

Saudi Arabia launched a new Unified Employment Contract on October 6, 2025, to prioritize workers' rights and ensure fair employment. This digital, standardized agreement enhances transparency regarding wages and obligations, reducing workplace disputes and fostering a more secure environment for all employees.

In July 2025, an old video of King Mswati IIIs arrival in Abu Dhabi went viral, showing him with 15 wives, 30 children, and over 100 attendants. The extravagant royal entourage, clad in traditional attire, sparked global attention and criticism, highlighting the stark contrast between the kings wealth and the fact that nearly 60% of Eswatinis population lives below the poverty line.

Wizz Air is bringing back its Abu Dhabi to Larnaca route starting November 15, 2025. Flights will run four times weekly, with fares beginning at approximately AED 100. This offers UAE travelers a budget-friendly option for European getaways. Travelers can opt for basic fares or upgrade for more amenities. This move provides accessible and economical travel to the Mediterranean.

Iran is set to remove four zeros from its national currency, the rial, in a major redenomination effort. This move aims to tackle years of high inflation and a severely depreciated currency, simplifying transactions and restoring public confidence. The reform aligns with local practice and will allow a three-year transition period for both old and new rials to circulate.

At the Italian Tech Week, investor Bernard Liautaud warned that Europes heavy reliance on Elon Musks SpaceX threatens its technological sovereignty and security. He urged governments to boost investment in domestic space and defence innovation to reduce dependence on US firms. With SpaceX and Blue Origin dominating, experts say Europe must act swiftly to secure its place in the global space race.