UAE weather stabilises but fog risk and humid nights persist
Dubai: Weather conditions across the UAE are expected to stabilise slightly today, with fair to partly cloudy skies prevailing and increased humidity developing overnight and into Friday morning across some coastal and internal areas, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The NCM h»»»
Fireworks light up Sharjah as residents welcome 2026
Sharjah: Families, friends and tourists came together across Sharjah’s waterfronts to welcome 2026 with fireworks, live performances and cultural celebrations, as Al Heera Beach, Al Majaz Waterfront and Khor Fakkan Beach hosted packed New Year’s Eve programmes. Al Heera Beach dazzles visitors with »»»
2026 events watch out for: Celestrial events, FIFA World Cup, air taxis, Artemis, T20 Cricket World Cup
Throughout 2026 2026's mind-blowing global events: Sports thrills, science breakthroughs, tech revolutions & flying taxis take off UAE: Launch of air taxi service following regulatory approval and completion of "vertiports". US: America250 Celebrations, a year-long event marking the 250th anniversa»»»
The Year of the Family: Rediscovering the art of connection
2026 has been designated as the UAE’s Year of the Family — a clear invitation to pause in our busy lives and rediscover what it means to truly see, listen, and connect with those closest to us. In a world overflowing with distractions — where devices constantly compete for our attention — we are of»»»
Ras Al Khaimah shatters world record with massive 2,300-Drone New Year’s spectacle
Dubai: Ras Al Khaimah ushered in 2026 with a 15-minute New Year’s Eve spectacle featuring drones and fireworks that set a new Guinness World Records title for the largest aerial display of a phoenix formed by multirotor drones. 2,300 drones form phoenixThe centrepiece of the celebration was a large»»»
Happy New Year from Gulf News and the end of the year of Labubus, Dubai chocolate and 6-7
Happy New Year to all of our readers, viewers, customers and followers. We're full of excitement as we move into 2026 on the back of an epic evening across the UAE. No-one does it better than our seven Emirates, right? Spectacular fireworks, complex drone shows, incredible crowds, stunning lights..»»»
Buying, renting or investing? What 2026 looks like for Dubai homes
Dubai: Dubai is ending 2025 with record numbers on the board and a noticeably different mood among buyers. After a year of momentum-led decisions, the property market is heading into 2026 with a sharper focus on long-term usability. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances.Sale»»»
What we know about the Saudi-led air strikes on ships in Yemen
Open-source imagery and data confirm that the vessels targeted by the Saudi-led coalition air strike on Mukalla, Yemen, on December 30, originated from the United Arab Emirates. The ships were carrying Emirati military vehicles used by a separatist group. Images of the air strike on Yemen’s port of»»»
Sheikh Hamdan welcomes 2026, shares message of hope and ambition
Dubai: As the New Year rang in, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, marked the start of 2026 by sharing New Year wishes with the nation. Sheikh Hamdan poste»»»
Syria affirms support for Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, and legitimate government
Damascus, Dec. 31 (SANA) The Syrian Arab Republic reaffirmed its full support for Yemen’s unity and sovereignty, standing alongside the legitimate government in preserving state institutions and fulfilling the aspirations of the Yemeni people for security and stability. The Ministry of Foreign Affa»»»
New Year 2026: Ajman announces free parking for 2 days
Ajman Municipality has announced that paid parking will be free of charge on January 1, 2026. Normal parking fees will resume on January 3, 2026. The municipality also confirmed the closure of its main Customer Happiness Center, Manama Center, Masfout Center, and Lease Regulation Department on Janu»»»
Lebanese defy war with year-end outburst of joy, determination - UPI.com
The faithful attend a Christmas mass at the damaged St. Anthony church in Al-Khiyam, southern Lebanon, on December 25. This is the first Christmas mass in the town since a cease-fire was agreed to between Lebanon and Israel in late November 2024 to halt more than a year of cross-border fighting wit»»»
Sharjah Police enforce safety measures against negative behaviour at public celebrations
Sharjah: Sharjah Police have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining safety and public order during celebrations and large gatherings, stressing that any negative behaviour will be addressed in accordance with clear legal procedures. Lieutenant Colonel Yousuf Al Mahmoud, Director of the Special »»»
UAE leaders share heartfelt New Year wishes for 2026
Abu Dhabi: With just hours remaining before the world welcomes 2026, UAE leaders have extended heartfelt New Year wishes, emphasizing hope, unity, and a shared commitment to continued progress. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan took to social media to express his best wishes»»»
Watch: Burj Khalifa lights up with fireworks
It's almost time to watch Burj Khalifa do what it does best - stand tall and shine. People have already gathered around the landmark and settled in for an evening of fun company and finer views. As for you - this is where you can catch the show.»»»
Sheikh Hamdan reflects on 2025 with heartfelt video, welcomes 2026
Dubai: As the calendar turns from 2025 to 2026, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, marks the occasion by sharing a touching compilation of his most cherish»»»
See how world rings in 2026: Stunning celebrations from Times Square to Sydney
People across the world celebrate the start of 2026, with New York's iconic Times Square ball descending 18 hours after the South Pacific greeted the New Year. Also Read: Countdown to 2026: UAE crowds gather for spectacular New Year fireworks1/7Fireworks light up the midnight sky over Sydney Harbou»»»
UAE leaders extend New Year wishes to global heads of state
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent New Year greetings for 2026 to their Highnesses and Majesties, Presidents, Kings and Princes of countries around the world, wishing them continued health and prosperity for their nations. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid »»»
Qatar Olympic Committee unveils sport events calendar for 2026
Doha: The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) has officially announced today its comprehensive calendar of sports events and competitions for 2026. The calendar features 83 championships, including 39 international events, 16 world championships, 10 Asian tournaments, three GCC competitions, one Arab cha»»»
Charming Trump: The ‘flattery diplomacy’ displays of 2025
In the first year of his second term, US President Donald Trump was flattered and praised as prominent figures calculated that massaging the ego of the leader of the free world was the easiest way to manage global diplomacy – and possibly serve their own interests. The lesson was learned early in T»»»
Sharjah Police deploys 172 patrols for New Year's Eve
Sharjah: Sharjah Police will deploy 172 traffic and security patrols across the emirate’s roads during New Year’s Eve, as part of a comprehensive security and traffic plan to manage crowds, ensure road safety and maintain public order while welcoming 2026, senior officers said. The patrols will be »»»
Dubai Police simplifies minor accident reporting on New Year's Eve
If you are out today and find yourself in a minor road accident this New Year’s Eve, Dubai Police assures you that you don’t have to spend a long time waiting for a police patrol. The police tweeted that people facing this minor bump in the road should just head to the nearest fuel station (ADNOC, »»»
Dubai Court closes 'Abu Sabah' case
Dubai: The Dubai Court of Cassation has issued a final ruling in the high-profile money laundering case known as the “Abu Sabah case”, partially overturning a Court of Appeal judgment by cancelling a Dh150 million joint fine and ordering instead the confiscation of funds derived from the crime. The»»»
Amir exchanges New Year greetings
Doha, Qatar: The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, exchanged congratulatory messages on the occasion of the New Year with Their Majesties, Excellencies and Highnesses, the leaders of friendly countries, in which His Highness expressed his wishes for them to have good health and happiness, an»»»
Oman tightens entry rules for expatriate workers, warns of crackdown on forged qualifications
Dubai: Oman has tightened pre-entry requirements for expatriate workers under its professional accreditation system, requiring expatriates to verify their academic and professional qualifications before entering the country, while warning of strict penalties for forged certificates, local media rep»»»
Dubai Police employs smart tech on New Year's Eve to ensure safety
Dubai Police is not leaving anything to chance tonight. As citizens, residents, and visitors to Dubai travel to their celebratory spots – places from where they can enjoy their meals, the glittering stars, and pyrotechnic and drone shows – to usher in 2026, it’s quietly taking care of the details. »»»
Watch: Ras Al Khaimah's spectacular NYE fireworks and drone show
Don't feel like going all the way to Ras Al Khaimah but really want to see the grand sky shows that will welcome 2026? We've got you covered. This year, the emirate is going all-out with its sparkling displays. The main show will run for about 15 minutes and will include an aerial display of a phoe»»»
Dubai Duty Free rings in New Year with three millionaires and luxury vehicle winners
Dubai: Dubai Duty Free marked the arrival of the New Year with a celebratory draw on New Year’s Eve at Concourse B of Dubai International Airport, announcing three new US$1 million winners under its Millennium Millionaire promotion, alongside four luxury vehicle winners in the Finest Surprise draw.»»»
New Year 2025: Abu Dhabi announces free parking, toll gate timings
Abu Dhabi authorities have announced that public parking under Mawaqif will be free on Thursday, 1 January 2026, resuming at 8:00 am on Friday, January 2, 2026. The waiver also applies to the Musaffah M-18 truck parking lot during the holiday. In addition, the Darb toll gate system will be free of »»»
UAE to welcomes 2026 with record-breaking fireworks and drone shows
The United Arab Emirates is preparing to welcome the New Year 2026 with an unprecedented festive spectacle, headlined by fireworks and light shows stretching from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah. Al Wathba area in Abu Dhabi will host one of the largest New Year celebrations in the UAE and the region. The Hig»»»
Sharjah announces free public parking on New Year’s Day 2026
Sharjah Municipality has announced that public parking in the emirate will be free on Thursday, January 2026, to mark the occasion of the New Year. The exemption excludes smart parking lots and paid public parking areas that operate daily and on official holidays, clearly indicated by blue instruct»»»
New law from Jan 2026: Abu Dhabi introduces HR reforms for merit-based hiring and flexible leave
Abu Dhabi Government has enacted comprehensive human resources legislation aimed at modernising its employment framework, positioning itself as an employer of choice for high-performing professionals, and embedding meritocracy across its workforce of over 25,000. The law takes effect on January 1, »»»
HH The Father Amir Hospital for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics resumes operations in northern Gaza, opens new branch in southern Gaza Strip
Doha: HH The Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Hospital for Rehabilitation and Prosthetics in Gaza, funded by Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), has resumed providing services to persons with disabilities and war-injured patients at its main headquarters in northern Gaza, following a fo»»»
Umm Al Quwain Police announce road closures ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations
Umm Al Quwain: Umm Al Quwain Police have announced temporary road closures from Wednesday afternoon to manage traffic ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations in neighbouring Ras Al Khaimah. The closures, implemented in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, have come into effect from 3pm on Decem»»»
How India overtook Japan as world’s 4th-largest economy: What is the ‘Goldilocks’ phase
India has surged past Japan to become the world's fourth-largest economy at $4.18 trillion, positioning itself to eclipse Germany for the third spot by 2030, according to a government release. Highlighting on-going reforms, New Delhi has cited India’s rapid, domestically-driven growth, strong consu»»»
Eurostar trains Paris- London resume, but New Year travellers still face delays
Dubai: Eurostar trains between London and Paris have largely resumed, offering relief to travellers after major disruption in the Channel Tunnel earlier this week, according to a BBC report. Sign up for our daily business newsletter, Cheques & Balances.The rail operator said it plans to run a full »»»
How Israel’s Multi-Ton Truck Bombs Ripped Through Gaza City
In the weeks before the Gaza ceasefire on October 10, Israel widely deployed a new weapon: M113 Armored Personnel Carriers repurposed to carry between 1 and 3 tons of explosives, Reuters found. As Israeli troops pushed toward the center of Gaza City, these powerful bombs, along with airstrikes and »»»
Abu Dhabi Police offer traffic points relief at Liwa International Festival
Abu Dhabi Police have invited motorists to benefit from traffic points services during the Liwa International Festival, offering eligible drivers the opportunity to restore their driving licences or reduce accumulated traffic points. Also Read: Abu Dhabi Police tighten rules for drivers under 21The»»»
Hadhramaut Governor to Asharq Al-Awsat: UAE Has Started Withdrawing its Forces, Door Still Open to STC
Hadhramaut Governor Salem Ahmed al-Khanbashi called on Wednesday inhabitants of the governorate who are involved with the Southern Transitional Council to "return home" and join their "brothers in the National Shield Forces". In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, he pledged that they will be welcomed in t»»»
Emirates’ 2025 report card: 29,000 laps around the Earth, 55.6m travellers
Dubai: Emirates, Dubai’s flagship airline, wrapped up 2025 with milestones that reshaped global travel. The airline carried 55.6 million passengers in 2025, operating nearly 180,600 flights and circling the Earth more than 29,000 times. It took 29, 290 laps around the earth to be precise. The airli»»»
Indian expat in UAE hit by e-scooter dies, gives life to six for New Year 2026 through organ donation
Abu Dhabi: As the New Year approaches, six patients have been given a second chance at life, following a generous decision by the family of an Indian expat in the UAE to donate his organs after a tragic accident. M. Baburajan, a 50-year-old goldsmith from Kerala, died following a road accident in A»»»
Pakistan enters 2026 as 5th most populous country
Dubai: Pakistan is set to enter 2026 as the world’s fifth-most populous country, with its population surpassing 225 million, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The milestone highlights the urgent need to address rapid population growth amid high fertility rates, persistent gen»»»
Somali President Warns Israeli Recognition of Somaliland Could Fuel Gaza Displacement Plan - Al-Manar TV Lebanon
Secretary's SpeechLebanon PalestineZionist EntityRegional and International International More Video Language Ar En Fr EsSubscribe for Weekly Updates Subscribe Somali President Warns Israeli Recognition of Somaliland Could Fuel Gaza Displacement Plan 31-12-2025 09:58 AM Somali President Hassan Shei»»»
Why the UAE’s new education laws are vital for the future
The UAE has once again demonstrated its forward-looking approach to national development with the issuance of two landmark Federal Decree Laws. One governs the national educational curriculum and the other regulates higher education and scientific research. These laws, issued in December 2025, are »»»
Israeli occupation force infiltrated into Lebanese territory, blew house in the tow of Houla: Al-Manar correspondent in south Lebanon - Al-Manar TV Lebanon
Secretary's SpeechLebanon PalestineZionist EntityRegional and International International More Video Language Ar En Fr EsSubscribe for Weekly Updates Subscribe Israeli occupation force infiltrated into Lebanese territory, blew house in the tow of Houla: Al-Manar correspondent in south Lebanon 31-12»»»
While Dubai celebrates, he saves lives: Indian ambulance driver on New Year’s Eve duty
As the UAE prepare to celebrate New Year’s Eve tonight, Brite Aravindhakshan will once again be on duty – ready to respond to emergencies while the nation welcomes 2026 with lights, fireworks and joy. The Indian expat, an ambulance driver with Aster Cedars Hospital in Jebel Ali, knows what it means»»»
Dubai investor loses Dh1 million in crypto scam; court upholds jail term
The Dubai Court of Appeal has upheld a lower court ruling sentencing two Asian men to three months in prison and ordering them to jointly repay Dh1.098 million, after convicting them of defrauding a European investor in a sham cryptocurrency transaction. The court also ordered their deportation aft»»»
Shah Rukh Khan arrives in Dubai for grand 8-day NYE celebrations in Burj Khalifa
Dubai: Shah Rukh Khan has arrived in Dubai, with videos circulating across social media showing the Bollywood superstar around town just in time for the city's most anticipated New Year's Eve event. His presence adds an extra layer of excitement to what's already shaping up to be one of Dubai's gra»»»
UAE petrol, diesel prices for January 2026 announced
Dubai: The UAE fuel price committee on Wednesday announced petrol and diesel prices for the month of January 2026. Super 98 petrol will cost Dh2.53 a litre, compared to Dh2.70 a litre in December, while Special 95 will cost Dh2.42 a litre, compared to Dh2.58 a litre the previous month. Also In This»»»
Kerala expat in Dubai wins Dh100,000 Big Ticket prize after 8 years of trying: ‘I thought it was a prank!’
Ajay Kumar waited nearly eight years for that life-changing call and when it finally came, it was from the unmistakable voice of Big Ticket host Richard. Kumar, a finance analyst from Kerala who has called Dubai home for 17 years, won Dh100,000 in the Big Ticket e-draw, sending his excitement soari»»»