GCC News

1 year ago

Kuwait Enacts Tougher Traffic Laws And Harsher Penalties For Violations

Kuwait has introduced comprehensive amendments to its traffic laws under Decree-Law No. 5 of 2025, imposing significantly harsher penalties for a wide range of violations. The reforms, aimed at improving road safety and curbing reckless behavior, represent the most extensive overhaul of Kuwait’s traffic regulations since the original law was enacted in 1976. The new provisions include fines ranging from KD 15 to KD 10,000, alongside stricter imprisonment terms for severe offenses. Key violations and penalties: Modernised administrative measures: The law introduces electronic communication for traffic violations and court summonses through government apps, SMS, or email, streamlining the legal process and ensuring timely notifications. Courts can now impose alternative penalties, such as community service, rehabilitation programs, or restitution for damages caused by violations. Police officers are authorised to arrest individuals for severe offenses, including fleeing the scene of an accident, DUI, or participating in high-speed road races. Repeat offenders face heightened penalties, with license suspensions of up to five years. The amendments are set to take effect three months after publication in the Official Gazette, giving drivers and vehicle owners time to familiarise themselves with the updated regulations. The Ministry of Interior emphasised that these reforms aim to reduce traffic […]

1 year ago

UAE Economy To Grow 4% This Year: IMF

The UAE economy’s near-term growth to is expected to remain healthy at around 4 per cent in 2025, despite lower-than-expected oil production related to OPEC+ agreements, according to the International Monetary Fund. This came in a statement issued by the IMF at the conclusion of a staff visit to the UAE to discuss economic and financial developments, the outlook and the country’s policy and reform priorities. The IMF said: “Near-term growth is strong and expected to remain healthy at around 4 percent in 2025, despite lower-than-expected oil production related to OPEC+ agreements. IMF UAE forecast “Non-hydrocarbon activity is boosted by tourism, construction, public expenditure, and continued growth in financial services. “Capital inflows remain strong, attracted by social and business-friendly reforms, and contribute to ongoing demand for real estate, which is driving further growth in house prices across different segments and locations. “Hydrocarbon GDP is expected to grow above 2 per cent this year, following OPEC+ decisions to sustain production cuts, and as the UAE implements a more gradual OPEC+ quota increase. “Inflation is expected to remain contained around 2 per cent in 2025 despite higher housing and utilities-related costs”. The IMF statement expected hydrocarbon revenue to decline amid volatile oil prices […]

1 year ago

ACRES 2025: Sharjah Real Estate Exhibition Sees Major Project Launches

The Sharjah Real Estate Exhibition “ACRES 2025” has witnessed the launch of an extensive portfolio of innovative and distinctive property projects designed to meet investor aspirations and set new standards across various real estate development fields. Organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), in collaboration with the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department (SRERD), the exhibition underscores its position as a premier platform spotlighting the dynamic growth of the real estate sector in Sharjah and the UAE. During its participation as the Platinum Sponsor of ACRES 2025, Alef Group unveiled its new project “Al Mamsha Hamsa” at the exhibition. Sharjah Real Estate Exhibition ACRES 2025 Issa Ataya, CEO of Alef Group, said: “This project underscores our commitment to delivering premium residential communities in Sharjah where contemporary design meets tranquil landscapes to provide a refined lifestyle experience”. Al Mamsha Hamsa comprises three buildings with a total of 420 units spanning 50,000 square metres of built-up area. Each unit is meticulously designed to blend modern aesthetics with serene, landscaped surroundings. Strategically situated on the edge of Al Mamsha, the project boasts a dedicated podium level offering open views, swimming pools, landscaped gardens, and calming water elements that promote a sense of natural tranquillity. […]

1 year ago

ZATCA Thwarts Smuggling Of Over 1.4 Million Captagon Pills At Jeddah Islamic Port

The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has foiled an attempt to smuggle 1,482,132 Captagon pills into the Kingdom through the Jeddah Islamic Port. ZATCA revealed that the pills were concealed within a consignment described as a “machine used to rotate laundry.” Advanced customs inspection techniques and live monitoring detected the hidden contraband during routine procedures. Following the seizure, authorities coordinated with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, leading to the arrest of those intended to receive the illegal shipment within the Kingdom. The authority reaffirmed its commitment to tightening customs controls on imports and exports to combat smuggling in all its forms. This effort aligns with its strategic priority of ensuring societal security and protection. ZATCA also urged the public to contribute to the fight against smuggling and protect the national economy by reporting suspicious activities. The authority assured that all reports are handled with strict confidentiality, with financial rewards offered to informants if their information proves accurate.

1 year ago

Saudi Arabia Records Over 22,500 Residency, Labor, And Border Violations

The Ministry of Interior conducted extensive inspection campaigns across Saudi Arabia from January 16 to January 22, targeting compliance with residency, labor, and border security laws. The campaigns uncovered a total of 22,555 violations, including 14,260 related to residency laws, 4,954 to border security, and 3,341 to labor laws. Authorities detained 1,700 individuals attempting to cross the border into the Kingdom illegally, of whom 42% were Yemenis, 56% Ethiopians, and 2% from other nationalities. Additionally, 81 people were arrested for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally. Twenty-four individuals were apprehended for facilitating illegal entry, transporting, sheltering, or employing violators. Currently, 33,871 expatriates—comprising 30,984 men and 2,887 women—are undergoing procedures to enforce regulations. Among them, 26,489 violators were directed to contact their respective embassies or consulates for travel documentation, 2,274 were instructed to make departure arrangements, and 10,948 were repatriated. The Ministry of Interior has reiterated the severe penalties for those who facilitate illegal entry into the Kingdom, including up to 15 years in prison, fines of up to SR1 million, and the confiscation of vehicles or properties used in such crimes. These acts are classified as major crimes warranting immediate arrest. The ministry urged the public to report any violations […]

1 year ago

No Signs Of Severe Winter As Saudi Arabia Enters Final Third Of The Season

Hussein Al-Qahtani, the official spokesperson for the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), confirmed that the Kingdom will enter the final third of winter by the end of next week, with no indications of a harsh winter ahead. Al-Qahtani emphasized that recent weather reports from the NCM debunk misleading claims circulating online, which the center had previously denied. In its weather report for Saturday, the NCM forecasted moderate to heavy thunderstorms, accompanied by hail and active winds, that may lead to flash floods in Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions, extending to parts of Makkah. Light to moderate rainfall is also expected in parts of Madinah, Qassim, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province. Fog formation is likely in some areas of these regions as well as in Tabuk, the Northern Borders, and Al-Jouf. The NCM report highlighted surface wind patterns over the Red Sea, predicting northeasterly to northerly winds, shifting to northwesterly during the evening, with speeds ranging from 20 to 42 km/h in the northern and central parts. Southern to southwesterly winds at 10 to 30 km/h are expected in the southern part, reaching speeds over 50 km/h near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, accompanied by thunderclouds and rainfall. Wave heights will range […]

1 year ago

Hans Zimmer Delivers A Spectacular Musical Night At Riyadh Season

Legendary composer Hans Zimmer enchanted audiences with an extraordinary musical performance on Friday night at the Mohammed Abdu Arena, as part of Riyadh Season. Tickets for the event sold out immediately after release, showcasing the excitement for this one-of-a-kind experience that combined musical brilliance with stunning visual effects. The evening concluded with a special honor presented by Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA). The concert began with a captivating introduction featuring dramatic lighting and breathtaking visuals, transitioning from desert landscapes to futuristic scenes, setting the tone for a magical night. Zimmer performed a selection of his most iconic compositions from global blockbuster films, including “Dune-Mombasa,” “Wonder Woman,” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.” These pieces were accompanied by dazzling visual displays that enhanced the dramatic impact of the performance. In the second part of the concert, the audience was taken on an emotional journey with pieces such as “Dune Love Theme” and “Last Samurai.” The use of lighting and stage effects created a mesmerizing atmosphere, reflecting the diversity of cultures and civilizations through music. The night reached its peak during the final segment with performances of unforgettable pieces like “Interstellar” and “Lion King,” where the fusion of music […]

1 year ago

Nadeen School: A Community With Heart, Where Learners Belong

As I reflect on the journey we’ve shared so far, I am overwhelmed with pride at how our community continues to embody the ethos of “Growing Together, Thriving as One.” Together, through collaboration, curiosity, and compassion, we have created something truly special: a learning environment where every individual feels supported, celebrated, and inspired to achieve their full potential. At the heart of everything we do are our learners. Their success, well-being, and growth drive our vision and fuel our purpose. Our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and kindness is unwavering, ensuring Nadeen School remains a place where everyone feels at home, valued for who they are, and empowered to excel through passion and purpose. This year, our sense of belonging has been nationally recognised. We were deeply honoured to receive an Innovation Award at Gulf Insider’s Bahrain Education Awards, a reflection of our determination to innovate while staying true to our values. Central to this recognition was the launch of our Thrive Achievement Center, a dedicated space for learners with more complex needs. This centre not only provides tailored pathways for success but also demonstrates our belief that diversity is a strength and that every learner has the […]

1 year ago

Hawar International School: Why Teamwork Makes The Dream Work

According to UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring report, “Leadership is at the heart of quality education,” and there is a growing belief that educational leadership contributes to educational outcomes. The report reminded me of Ted Sundquist’s quote that “good teams incorporate teamwork into their culture, creating the building blocks for success.” Excellent leaders are not excellent at everything. They are excellent at building teams to propel the school forward, whether that is HR and Operations, SLT, or subject leaders—the right people bring excellence each day. They also recognise that leadership does not exclusively belong to them—it belongs to the whole school and is a servant of that community not just during term time but beyond the school gate. On the desk of every school leader is the improvement of the learning and teaching experiences in their schools and the positive outcomes for students at the examination level. Leaders need to synergise the school, promote the values of the school and lead it with confidence, knowledge, authority and drive. Their vision drives the culture and if a leader has high expectations and outcomes, then the whole school community will come to know what is expected of them and rise to meet the […]

1 year ago

Bahrain: Paper-To-Cash Scam Exposed: Two Arrested for Fraud

In a shocking scam exposed by authorities, two individuals were arrested yesterday for allegedly defrauding people with a bizarre promise: double your money by turning ordinary paper into real currency. The arrests were made following a tip-off that led the General Department of Anti-Corruption, Economic, and Electronic Security, in collaboration with the Capital Governorate Police Directorate, to launch an immediate investigation. The suspects were swiftly identified and apprehended. Authorities acted quickly to refer the case to the Public Prosecution, ensuring the fraudsters would face legal consequences. In a statement, the General Department of Anti-Corruption, Economic, and Electronic Security urged both citizens and residents to remain vigilant. They advised the public to steer clear of such deceptive individuals and to report any suspicious activity to the Department of Combating Economic Crimes at the hotline 992.

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Kuwait Enacts Tougher Traffic Laws And Harsher Penalties For Violations

UAE Economy To Grow 4% This Year: IMF

ACRES 2025: Sharjah Real Estate Exhibition Sees Major Project Launches

ZATCA Thwarts Smuggling Of Over 1.4 Million Captagon Pills At Jeddah Islamic Port

Saudi Arabia Records Over 22,500 Residency, Labor, And Border Violations

No Signs Of Severe Winter As Saudi Arabia Enters Final Third Of The Season

Hans Zimmer Delivers A Spectacular Musical Night At Riyadh Season

Nadeen School: A Community With Heart, Where Learners Belong

Hawar International School: Why Teamwork Makes The Dream Work

Bahrain: Paper-To-Cash Scam Exposed: Two Arrested for Fraud

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