Weekend Digest: Umrah update, UAE airfares, illegal housing, summer travel, mango mania and more

Dubai: As summer officially begins across the UAE, the nation is buzzing with significant changes affecting residents and visitors alike. This week’s digest covers essential updates on visas, Umrah, transport, housing, and travel to keep you well-informed for the season. From visa reforms and summer travel updates to Dubai’s crackdown on illegal housing and UAE airfare drops, we’ve got all the key news covered. Plus, discover budget-friendly bus trips to Salalah, innovative architectural concepts, and evolving trends in Gulf tourism.

Catch up quickly with our top stories roundup—you won’t want to miss a thing. Scroll down for all the highlights!

Here’s your weekend roundup of top stories.

Saudi Arabia has announced that citizens of GCC countries can perform Umrah at any time of the year, entering through any land, air, or sea port. Permits can be obtained via the official Nusuk app, as part of efforts to simplify pilgrimage procedures and enhance the pilgrim experience. Read more ➜

Cristiano Ronaldo says he plans to live in Saudi Arabia permanently, calling it a place of “peace and safety” where his family feels at home. The 40-year-old has extended his Al Nassr contract until 2027, saying the kingdom’s warm hospitality inspired their decision to settle there. Read more ➜

Mangoes are a popular summer fruit in the UAE, with many residents flocking to stores as temperatures rise. Among the varieties available, Pakistani mangoes stand out as a favourite due to their flavour, aroma, and quality, making them highly sought after during the season. Read more ➜

After a brief rise in early July, UAE-India flight prices have fallen to unusually low levels—Dh1,450–Dh1,600—defying peak season trends. Popular routes like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Thiruvananthapuram are seeing fares well below the usual July–August averages. Experts say such drops were last seen post-pandemic. Read more ➜

UAE and Pakistan signed an MoU exempting diplomatic and official passport holders from entry visa requirements, easing travel formalities. The Pakistani passport currently ranks 100th globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 32 countries. Read more ➜

Gulf tourism is evolving beyond shopping and beaches, with travellers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar seeking meaningful cultural and emotional experiences. A new PwC Middle East report urges tourism leaders to rethink city planning to offer connection, flexibility, and purpose, moving beyond luxury and leisure. Read more ➜

The Analemma Tower is a futuristic concept designed by Clouds Architecture Office as the world’s tallest building—not rising from Earth, but hanging from an asteroid in geosynchronous orbit 50,000 km above the planet. Suspended by a strong cable system, it reverses traditional foundations. Read more ➜

Jennifer Allan, a 35-year-old realtor from Delaware, used AI—specifically ChatGPT—to help change her habits and successfully pay off her $23,000 credit card debt. Read more ➜

Traveling from Dubai to Salalah by bus is a popular, budget-friendly option during the lush Khareef season (June–September). The four-day, three-night bus tours depart from Dubai’s Gold Souq Metro Station, offering affordable travel compared to flights. Read more ➜

Abu Dhabi Police warn drivers against stopping on road shoulders near Darb toll gates except in emergencies. Some motorists wait on shoulders for toll-free periods, risking safety and causing traffic disruptions, as shown by smart surveillance footage. Read more ➜

Dubai authorities are intensifying inspections on illegal partitions and overcrowded housing in areas such as Deira and Al Barsha. They are targeting unapproved modifications and unsafe living conditions. Tenants and landlords should familiarize themselves with subletting, partition, and occupancy rules under Dubai Rental Law. Read more ➜