This week brought a flurry of significant developments in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, featuring updates on flight suspensions, Dubai’s innovative shift to a 4-day work week, newly announced public holidays, and changes in dining regulations across Saudi Arabia. Additionally, a candid interview with Piers Morgan highlighted evolving media narratives, particularly regarding geopolitical issues. Here’s a comprehensive recap of ten crucial stories you may have missed this week.
UAE Flight Suspensions: Current Travel Updates
As geopolitical tensions continue to escalate, UAE airlines have implemented further flight suspensions and cancellations. Major carriers such as Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia, and Emirates are actively adjusting their flight schedules due to the impact of ongoing conflicts affecting regional airspace.
Current advisories indicate that flights to various destinations—including Iran, Israel, Russia, Jordan, and Iraq—are no longer operational. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed by checking with their respective airlines for live updates and travel news.
Dubai’s 4-Day Work Week Initiative Launched
In an innovative move to promote work-life balance, the Dubai Government has introduced flexible working hours and a 4-day workweek for select employees during the summer. This initiative, named “Our Flexible Summer,” aims to enhance workplace satisfaction and productivity.
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department confirmed that the initiative follows a successful pilot phase in 2024 and will be implemented across various government entities.
Hijri New Year Public Holiday Announced for UAE
The UAE has declared an official public holiday for the Hijri New Year, set for Friday, June 27. This announcement from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirms a paid day off for private sector employees, creating an extended 3-day weekend from June 27 to 29.
The decision aligns with an earlier proclamation by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, marking the same day as a holiday for public sector workers. Both sectors will benefit from this official observance of the Hijri New Year 1447 AH.
Saudi Arabia’s New Food Transparency Guidelines
In a significant development, Saudi Arabia’s Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is set to enforce new regulations aimed at improving food transparency in dining establishments beginning July 1. These guidelines will require restaurants and cafés to disclose detailed nutritional information on their menus.
Starting on this date, food establishments must provide essential details such as sodium content and caffeine levels in beverages, as well as the estimated time required to burn off meal calories. This initiative aims to empower consumers with crucial nutritional knowledge, fostering healthier dining choices.
Piers Morgan: A Shift in Commentary on Global Issues
Piers Morgan’s recent interview marked a pivotal evolution in his commentary regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel. Known for his unflinching directness, Morgan’s latest remarks signal a deeper demand for accountability and a reassessment of the narratives surrounding the conflict.
In the exclusive conversation with Arabian Business, Morgan stated, “What they’re doing now is unjustified, unacceptable, probably illegal – and it needs to stop.” His shift from previously defending Israel’s right to respond militarily to Hamas showcases a changing landscape in public sentiment and media discourse.
Corporate Tax Fine Waiver Introduced in the UAE
The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority has instated a limited-time waiver for corporate tax registration penalties. Corporate taxpayers are urged to complete their filings within the specified deadlines to avoid administrative fines.
This waiver applies to both taxable entities and exempt persons required to register, provided they finalize their tax registration within seven months from the close of their initial tax period. The FTA clarified that this exemption applies only to the first tax period, regardless of any due dates.
Dubai’s Real Estate Market Thriving Amid Wealth Influx
Dubai’s real estate sector is experiencing a remarkable surge, with high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) contributing to a vibrant property market. Recent data from the Savills Dubai Prime Residential 2025 report reveals that sales of homes exceeding AED10 million (approximately $2.7 million) have skyrocketed tenfold over the last four years.
The report highlights a staggering increase in premium property transactions, with over 4,670 sales recorded in 2024, up from just 469 in 2020. This trend indicates Dubai’s growing allure as a prime global property destination.
Dubai Metro Blue Line Expansion Set to Transform Real Estate
The ambitious expansion of Dubai’s Metro Blue Line is officially underway, promising to significantly impact the city’s real estate landscape. According to Firas Al Msaadi, CEO of fäm Properties, this infrastructure development is expected to unlock new opportunities in urban living and real estate investment across the emirate.
The construction of the first station at Dubai Creek Harbour has begun, with further implications anticipated for connectivity and property values throughout Dubai.
Abu Dhabi’s Real Estate Market on the Rise
While Dubai has traditionally dominated the UAE’s real estate spotlight, Abu Dhabi is steadily forging its own narrative as an emerging investment hub. Recent insights from real estate experts indicate that the capital is making significant strides in attracting both domestic and international investors, buoyed by its strategic planning and urban development initiatives.
Ali Ishaq, Head of Residential Agency in Abu Dhabi, noted that the capital now boasts the highest concentration of sovereign wealth globally, suggesting fertile ground for future growth in its real estate sector.