UAE introduces visa-on-arrival for eligible Filipino travellers from 25 June
Emirates issues peak-summer travel advisory for Dubai departures
Etihad Rail opens passenger ticket sales, first Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service starts 30 June
Latest News
Sharjah enacts comprehensive drone law to tighten air-space safety across the emirate
Sharjah has issued a dedicated drone law that requires permits, registration and strict adherence to approved flight zones. Operators have three months to regularise their fleets, and penalties include suspension or revocation of licences. The statute gives businesses a clear compliance roadmap but adds new costs and timelines to aerial-services projects. It may also accelerate efforts to harmonise drone rules across the UAE.
Summer airfares from the UAE surge 30-40 %, forcing travellers and corporates to rethink budgets
Travel agents say summer airfares from the UAE are 30–40 % higher than in 2025, driven by fuel prices, longer routings and strong demand. Corporates are trimming budgets, while leisure travellers are booking earlier or switching to visa-friendly destinations. Mobility managers should secure seats well in advance and factor higher costs into relocation and travel policies.
Etihad Rail sets 30 June launch for first UAE passenger rail service and opens ticket sales
Etihad Rail will carry its first passengers on 30 June, slashing Abu Dhabi–Fujairah travel times and marking the UAE’s entry into inter-city rail. Tickets went on sale on 23 June at AED 55 for economy seats. The staged rollout through 2027 will give businesses and commuters a competitive, lower-carbon alternative to highways and domestic flights.
Step-by-step guide released for skilled professionals applying for the UAE five-year Green Visa
A Gulf News guide breaks down how skilled workers can secure the UAE’s five-year Green Visa, covering eligibility (bachelor’s degree, AED 15 k salary), required paperwork and fees. The visa lets holders sponsor family members and offers a six-month post-cancellation grace period, making it an attractive option for project hires and freelancers.
UK lifts ‘all but essential travel’ warning for UAE, kick-starting Dubai tourism rebound
A 23 June industry report confirms that the UK’s removal of its ‘all but essential travel’ advisory is already driving a spike in British bookings to Dubai. Insurance cover has resumed, Emirates is adding capacity and Dubai tourism officials are rolling out confidence campaigns. The change eases corporate-approval hurdles, although US and Canadian warnings remain stricter.
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi launches thrice-weekly Abu Dhabi–Aleppo flights, boosting UAE–Syria links
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will begin thrice-weekly flights to Aleppo on 7 July and make its Damascus route daily, signalling a steady normalisation of UAE–Syria air links. The new capacity offers expatriates, businesses and aid agencies a faster, cheaper connection and positions Abu Dhabi as a growing hub for Levant traffic.