Gulf Insider

32 seconds ago

Bahrain: 999 Call From 6-Year-Old Leads To Life-Saving Rescue Of Mother In Bahrain

Authorities in Bahrain successfully saved the life of a 35-year-old woman after she suffered a severe epileptic seizure that nearly proved fatal, thanks to rapid emergency response and the remarkable actions of her young daughter. According to officials, the Operations Directorate, in coordination with the National Ambulance and the Ministry of Interior, responded to a silent emergency call received via the 999 hotline. When operators attempted to call back, they discovered the caller was a 6-year-old child. The line disconnected shortly after, prompting immediate emergency procedures to verify the situation. Using a video call service, operators reconnected with the child, who was able to point the phone toward her mother, seen unconscious. Emergency personnel quickly instructed the girl to step outside the apartment, which allowed responders to accurately identify the location. An ambulance was dispatched without delay, and the woman was transported to King Hamad University Hospital, where she is now reported to be in stable condition. Officials emphasized that the swift response of emergency services, combined with the cooperation and composure of the young girl, played a critical role in saving the woman’s life.

Bahrain

19 minutes ago

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) To Host Track Activities

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) will host a series of motorsport events on April 24 and 25, including National Race Day (NRD), Track Experiences, and Open Track Night. Racing begins on Friday with NRD, featuring round six of the Bahrain Touring Car Challenge (BTCC) and round four of the Bahrain Motorcycle Championship (BMC), from 4pm to 10:30pm on the Inner Track. Ali Almansoori leads the BTCC standings with 200 points, followed by Ahmed Banjaid with 133 points and James Taylor with 115 points. BIC invited spectators to attend the event at the Beyon Grandstand, which offers views of key sections of the circuit, including the start and finish line. Activities continue on Saturday with Track Experiences from 8am to 3pm on the Inner Track, offering participants the opportunity to drive performance vehicles under professional supervision. The programme includes the Renault Clio Cup, Radical SR1, and Radical SR3 experiences. Open Track Night will take place on Saturday from 6pm to 9pm, allowing participants to drive their own cars and motorbikes on the Grand Prix track in a controlled environment that promotes safe driving.

Crime

30 minutes ago

Bahrain: Fake TikTok Friendship Ends In Court

It began with simple likes and exchanged comments in the virtual world of TikTok, weaving the threads of what seemed to be an innocent friendship between a young Bahraini woman and an Egyptian expatriate working as a barber. However, behind those colorful screens, a starkly different reality was taking shape one that would soon shift from social media feeds to the halls of criminal courts. The friendship was nothing more than a facade for financial exploitation. The defendant took advantage of the woman’s trust to secure a “loan” of 750 Dinars. As days passed, stalling and evasion became his tactics, prompting the victim to use her wits and record a voice clip of him confessing to the debt. That recording sparked a bitter conflict between them, turning their friendly bond sour. In the Juffair area, inside the victim’s car, the defendant’s final mask fell. He was no longer the “friend” she knew behind the screen; he transformed into a fierce aggressor the moment he learned of the voice recording. He snatched her phone and when she refused to give him the passcode, he struck her across the face twice. He didn’t stop there; he drew a knife and stabbed her […]

Expats

45 minutes ago

Bahrain: New Conditions For Expats

Bahrain’s Parliament passed two amendments to the Traffic Law that introduce stricter conditions for issuing driving licences to expatriates, including linking licence validity to residency permits and expanding regulatory powers over foreign applicants. The first amendment limits the validity of a non-Bahraini driving licence to the duration of the holder’s legal residency in the Kingdom. The second allows the executive authority to set additional conditions for expatriates applying for licences. Lawmakers backing the changes said the reforms aim to ease pressure on Bahrain’s roads, as the number of expatriate workers and private vehicles continues to rise. During discussions, MPs argued that the measures would help better organise traffic management and align licensing rules with broader residency regulations. Some also pointed to international practices where income and residency criteria are used in transport-related decisions. The government, however, opposed both amendments, stating that existing regulations already require valid residency for obtaining and renewing driving licences. Officials warned the changes could create administrative challenges, particularly regarding renewal systems and long-term residency categories. The Interior Ministry also said the proposed framework would be difficult to implement consistently because it does not follow a unified system. It further noted that current laws already allow the […]

Saudi Arabia

59 minutes ago

Heritage Commission Announces Excavation Results Of Saudi-Chinese Mission At Al-Serrain Archaeological Site During 2025

The Saudi Heritage Commission announced the results of the 2025 archaeological excavation season of the Saudi-Chinese mission at Al-Serrain archaeological site in Allith governorate in the Makkah region. This is part of the commission’s efforts to document and study coastal archaeological sites and enhance understanding of the civilizational landscape of Islamic historical cities and ports along the Red Sea coast. Excavation works during the season revealed architectural extensions, including documentation of residential, service, and storage units, as well as pottery kilns reflecting daily life activities. The season documented diverse archaeological finds, including various types of pottery, ceramic incense burners, stone tools, agate beads, and glass, alongside organic materials such as shells and animal bones, reflecting the diversity of the site’s inhabitants’ economic and daily activities. Among the most notable discoveries was a fragment of a Chinese ceramic jar dating to the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 AD), bearing remnants of a decorative seal with partially damaged, illegible Chinese script, serving as an archaeological testament to commercial contact between southern China and the Red Sea coast during the Islamic era. The Heritage Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing excavation and study at Al-Serrain in the coming seasons, aiming to build a comprehensive […]

Saudi Arabia

1 hour ago

Saudi Arabia: MOI Warns Of SR100,000 Fine For Transporting Visit Visa Holders To Makkah During Hajj

Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia warned that fines of up to SR100,000 will be imposed on anyone transporting holders of any type of visit visa into Makkah during the Hajj season. The ministry said the penalties apply from the first of Dhu al-Qa’dah, corresponding to April 20, until the fourteenth of Dhu al-Hijjah, corresponding to May 30 The ministry explained that the fine applies to those transporting individuals to the Holy capital Makkah and the Holy Sites. In addition to the financial penalty, the ministry said authorities will seek judicial confiscation of the land transport vehicle used in the violation if it is owned by the transporter, a participant or an accomplice. For reporting violations of Hajj regulations, the ministry urged people to contact 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province regions and 999 for the rest of the Kingdom. The ministry stressed that all reports will be kept confidential and that no liability will fall on the reporter.

Kuwait

1 hour ago

Gulf Screen Icon Hayat Al Fahad Dies Aged 78 After Long Illness

Iconic Kuwaiti actress Hayat Al Fahad, widely known as the “Lady of the Gulf Screen”, has died at the age of 78 after a prolonged illness, in a loss that has reverberated across the Arab artistic community. The announcement was made on Tuesday via the official account of the Al Fahad Artistic Production Foundation, which paid tribute to her as a towering figure in Gulf drama whose legacy will endure for generations. Al Fahad had faced recurring health complications in recent months, which kept her away from the screen. Sources close to the family said her condition deteriorated sharply in recent days, leading to her admission to intensive care before her death. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Al Fahad was not only an actress but also a writer and producer, known for works that explored Gulf society with depth and candour. Born in Kuwait in 1948, Al Fahad is regarded as one of the Arab world’s most influential television and stage figures. Her career spans acting, broadcasting, writing, and producing, with celebrated credits including the beloved television series Khalti Qumasha, Ruqiya wa Sabika, Jarh Al Zaman, and ‘Ndama Tu’Gany Al Zuho. Despite advancing age, she remained active […]

Saudi Arabia

2 hours ago

Saudi Arabia Steps Up Preparations For Hajj 2026 To Ensure Pilgrim Safety

Saudi Arabia has stepped up preparations for the 2026 Hajj season, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman directing authorities to deploy all capabilities to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage as arrivals begin from around the world. Speaking on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Crown Prince welcomed pilgrims and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to serving the holy sites and caring for visitors to Mecca and Medina. During a cabinet session, Prince Mohammed ordered the full mobilisation of operational, security and preventive plans, stressing the need to deliver the highest standards of service across the holy cities, pilgrimage sites and all air, land and sea entry points. Meanwhile, Tawfiq Al Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah, inspected the readiness of camps in Mina as part of field tours to assess service quality ahead of the Hajj season. He said preparations began early, with coordinated efforts among authorities to enhance camp readiness and operational efficiency. Al Rabiah said that new electronic systems have been introduced to monitor pilgrim movement and regulate entry and exit, supported by clear signage to guide timings and instructions, adding: “These measures support crowd management and enhance pilgrim safety, […]

Crime

2 hours ago

Kuwait Jails Lawyer For 3 Years Over False Posts On Citizenship Revocation

Kuwait’s Court of Appeal has sentenced a lawyer to three years in prison with immediate effect after convicting him of posting misleading and false information via X platform that sparked public confusion over citizenship revocation cases. The State Security Circuit found that the defendant had exceeded the limits of free expression by using his social media accounts to publish misleading narratives linked to sensitive cases involving the withdrawal of citizenship under article No.8. According to court documents, the lawyer deliberately circulated claims unsupported by official evidence and repeated what the court described as false and misleading allegations, contributing to public unrest and influencing opinion. The ruling also said his posts implicitly encouraged non-compliance with applicable laws. Prosecutors said the defendant exploited digital platforms to spread rumours and inaccurate information, adding that some posts overstepped legitimate criticism and encroached on matters within the authority of the Emir of Kuwait. The case is among the first final rulings issued under Kuwait’s amended laws on electronic publishing offences, particularly those related to spreading unverified information and causing public disorder online. The verdict closes a case that had drawn widespread attention in Kuwait and underscores tighter legal scrutiny over digital content and the use […]

Hafeet Rail: Oman–UAE Railway Connection Project At 40% Completion

Uncategorized

5 hours ago

Hafeet Rail: Oman–UAE Railway Connection Project At 40% Completion

Hafeet Rail, the joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), has announced the completion of 40 per cent of the UAE–Oman rail connection project. Once completed, the network will span 238km, forming a vital link between the UAE and the Sultanate of Oman. Over 27 million cubic metres of earthworks have been completed to date, alongside 10 million safe man-hours achieved without any major injuries. Work is progressing across key locations along the route, including: The landmark project is set to support trade flows, enhance supply chain resilience, and contribute to deeper economic integration between the two nations. READ MORE: UAE Bans Junk Food, Sugary Drinks In Schools Under New Health Guide

Abu Dhabi’s School Safety Guide Sets A New Standard

UAE

5 hours ago

Prepared, Not Panicked: Abu Dhabi’s School Safety Guide Sets A New Standard For Emergency Readiness

Authorities have issued a comprehensive guide to enhance the readiness of educational institutions, including school transportation, to mitigate risks and manage emergency and exceptional situations. The guide was issued as part of the “Our Community is Ready” campaign, a proactive effort by the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC), in collaboration with the Department of Education and Knowledge and the Abu Dhabi Media Office. A comprehensive safety framework The guide is built on clear, consistent, and interconnected procedures aimed at safeguarding students and educational staff. It emphasizes strict adherence to official instructions and discourages individual decision-making that could compromise public safety. It also highlights the importance of relying solely on official communication channels and avoiding the spread of rumors, ensuring accurate and timely responses during critical situations. Parents: The first line of defence Parents play a vital role in reinforcing student safety, beginning with strict compliance with official guidance and avoiding unilateral actions such as going to the school or picking up their child without direct instructions. Key recommendations include: During an alert: Parents are urged not to send their children to school until an official “all clear” notification is issued. They should avoid gathering near schools, adhere to designated […]

Weather: Light Rain, Dust And Cooler Conditions Forecast In UAE Through Sunday

UAE

5 hours ago

Weather: Light Rain, Dust And Cooler Conditions Forecast In UAE Through Sunday

The UAE is set for a week of partly cloudy to cloudy conditions, with a chance of light rain, blowing dust and a gradual drop in temperatures from today through Sunday, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). Today, cloud cover will increase with a probability of light rainfall over islands and some coastal and eastern areas, particularly later in the day. Temperatures are expected to fall slightly over western coastal regions, while winds will be light to moderate, freshening at times and stirring dust. Conditions will remain unsettled on Thursday, with partly cloudy to cloudy skies and continued chances of light rain. Winds are forecast to strengthen, reaching up to 40 km/h, causing blowing dust and sand and reducing horizontal visibility. Seas in the Arabian Gulf may become moderate to rough at times. By Friday, conditions will begin to stabilise, though cloud cover may persist in some areas. Winds will ease slightly, with speeds of up to 30 km/h, while seas remain slight to moderate. Fair to partly cloudy weather is expected over the weekend, with lighter winds and calmer conditions overall. However, seas could turn rough at times in the Arabian Gulf on Sunday. Daytime temperatures are […]

No Iran Pavilion? Here Are 6 Places To Check Out At Global Village Instead

UAE

5 hours ago

No Iran Pavilion? Here Are 6 Places To Check Out At Global Village Instead

With the opening of Global Village on Tuesday, residents were quick to notice one significant change. The Iran pavilion was closed with barriers put outside it. The nameboard was removed and all the stalls inside the pavilion remained closed. Although there has been no official comment from Global Village, the images of the closed pavilion quickly spread on social media. The mention of Iran Pavilion has been removed from the website of the park as well. The destination reopened on Monday after being closed for 51 days due to regional tensions during the US-Israel-Iran war. On the first day, both residents and tourists lined up to visit the park and take advantage of special discounts and offers. Meanwhile, other stalls functioned as normal, with traders hoping to make the best of the last stretch of the season. Global Village is slated to end on May 10. It is not yet clear if the park will be extended. For those wanting to explore the park, here are some hidden gems to check out. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh With a splash of red and green, the joint pavilion of the two countries introduces people to its vibrant culture. Guests can explore traditional crafts like Sri Lankan batik and […]

Scammers Demand Crypto From Stranded Ships In Strait Of Hormuz

World

10 hours ago

Scammers Demand Crypto From Stranded Ships In Strait Of Hormuz: Report

Fraudulent actors posing as Iranian authorities have reportedly sent messages to shipping companies whose vessels remain stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz, demanding payment in cryptocurrency for safe passage. On Monday, maritime risk company Marisks issued a warning saying unknown groups had contacted shipowners claiming to represent Iranian security services and requesting transit “fees” in Bitcoin or USDt in exchange for clearance through the strait, according to Reuters. “These specific messages are a scam,” Marisks reportedly said, adding that they do not originate from Iranian authorities. Tehran has not publicly commented on the claims. The alerts come as the strategic waterway remains largely closed following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy flows, previously handled around one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas exports before hostilities escalated in the region. Earlier this month, reports said Iran was considering charging ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz a tariff payable in Bitcoin, with empty tankers allowed free passage while others could be charged around $1 per barrel of oil. Crypto “transit fee” scam demands verification docs The reported scam messages instruct recipients to submit documentation for verification before being assigned a “fee” payable in cryptocurrency, […]

Israeli Soldiers In Lebanon Who Sledgehammered Statue Of Jesus Arrested As Bibi Does Damage Control

World

10 hours ago

Israeli Soldiers In Lebanon Who Sledgehammered Statue Of Jesus Arrested As Bibi Does Damage Control

Earlier this week we featured commentary on a disturbing viral photograph: IDF Under Fire After Troops Caught Destroying Statue Of Jesus With Sledgehammer. The destruction of the statue took place in the Maronite Christian village of Debel, which is roughly 54 miles to the southeast of Beirut and situated just north of the border between Lebanon and Israel. Since the onset of the war Israel began waging against Iran in March, Debel has come under heavy fire after a second front was created against Lebanon when the IDF resumed attacks against Hezbollah – and as Hezbollah began once again lobbing missiles into northern Israel. The demographics of the village are almost entirely Christian, with 99.5% of registered voters adhering to the Christian faith, over 92% of whom are Maronite Catholics. In the 20th century, Christianity – made up chiefly of Lebanese Catholic and Eastern Orthodox believers – was actually the majority demographic of the small Mediterranean country. At this point, Islam is a slight majority, but Christianity is still the most sizeable minority, also with the Lebanese President being a Christian along with top officials. But most of the American public remains ignorant of just how large and visible the ancient Christian communities […]

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