News
News and updates on what’s happening in Dubai. Announcements and important information about the emirate that the residents should be aware of. Here we share current events and advisories, as well as trends for your reference.
UAE Customs Foils Cocaine Smuggling Attempt at Zayed International Airport
UAE customs officers foiled a cocaine smuggling attempt at Zayed International Airport after detecting suspicious signs from an arriving passenger. Medical checks later found 100 cocaine capsules hidden inside the passenger’s body, weighing 1,418 grams. The suspect and seized drugs were referred to authorities for legal action.
MWO Dubai Says 81% of First-Round Cash Aid, 3298 Applications Approved
MWO Dubai said 3,298 out of 4,063 first-round applications for DMW one-time financial assistance were approved. The aid is for land-based OFWs in the UAE affected by the US-Israel-Iran conflict. As of May 12, 2,367 had collected the aid, while 931 were still pending collection.
1 Dead, 19 Hurt in Dubai Road Accident Involving Bus and Truck
A worker died and 19 others were injured after a truck hit a workers’ bus that had stopped suddenly on Al Yalayis Street in Dubai. Police said the bus had a technical fault. Dubai Police reminded drivers not to stop in the middle of the road and to call police
Liz Exhibition The Original Shopper Sale Comes to Coca-Cola Arena Dubai, May 14-17, 2026
Shoppers in Dubai have another major retail event to mark on the calendar this May as Liz Exhibition The Original Shopper Sale arrives at Coca-Cola....
UAE Confirms 5-Day Eid Al Adha Break for Public Sector
UAE: Federal government employees in the UAE will have a five-day holiday for Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha 2026, authorities announced. The Federal Authority....
Filipino Travelers Get More Visa-Free Options in 2026
The Philippine passport has improved in global mobility rankings after new visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and travel access deals. Passport Index gives it a mobility score of 78, while Henley places it around 73rd in early 2026. The gains may help Filipino travelers, OFWs, and businesses.
UAE Faces 800,000 Cyberattacks Daily, Launches AI Defense
The UAE has launched the UAE Cyber Factory to strengthen national cyber defense using artificial intelligence. The move comes as the country records more than 800,000 daily cyberattacks in recent months. The project aims to improve detection, response, and local development of cybersecurity solutions.
AED500 Fine for Not Giving Way to Pedestrians in Dubai
Dubai Police has warned drivers to slow down and give pedestrians priority after a girl was seriously injured in a collision in Al Yalayis 1, Mira Community. Drivers who fail to give way at pedestrian crossings face a AED500 fine and six black points under UAE traffic law.
Paraguay Could Become PH Gateway to Latin America
The Philippines and Paraguay signed three agreements during President Santiago Peña’s state visit to Manila. The deals cover visa-free travel for ordinary passport holders, business cooperation, and diplomatic training. Both countries also discussed trade, agriculture, renewable energy, and their possible roles as gateways to Asia and Latin America.
Etihad Rail Issues Big Safety Reminder Before Passenger Trains Start
Etihad Rail has launched a nationwide safety campaign as the UAE prepares for passenger rail services in 2026. The campaign will use TV, digital platforms, schools, communities, and public messaging to teach safe behavior around railway areas. It promotes shared responsibility, careful awareness, and a long-term culture of care.
