The United Arab Emirates (UAE) saw a flurry of activity this week, encompassing cultural events, legal rulings, and significant policy changes impacting residents and visitors alike. From the Red Sea Film Festival spotlighting female filmmakers to updates on passport renewals and VAT regulations, the news cycle was diverse. A family in Dubai faced a court order regarding a substantial hotel bill, while new speed limits were implemented across several emirates. These developments, alongside a notable lottery win and a university losing accreditation, highlight the dynamic nature of life and governance in the UAE. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key UAE news from the past week.
Major Policy Shifts and Government Services in the UAE
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security announced the implementation of a new unified service designed to expedite the renewal of passports and Emirates ID cards for Emirati citizens. This initiative is part of the broader Zero Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) Programme, aiming to streamline government processes and improve efficiency. According to the authority, the new system will significantly reduce processing times, offering a more convenient experience for citizens.
Additionally, the UAE is preparing for changes to its Value Added Tax (VAT) laws, with new regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The Ministry of Finance issued a federal decree updating aspects of the VAT law, aiming to align the system with international standards and simplify its application. Details of the specific changes are still emerging, but the move signals a continued effort to refine the UAE’s fiscal policies.
Changes to Religious Observances and School Schedules
Effective January 2, 2026, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has announced a standardized time for Friday prayers and sermons across the UAE. This change is expected to lead to earlier school closures on Fridays, impacting students and families nationwide. Most schools are anticipated to adjust their schedules to accommodate the new prayer timings, potentially shortening the school day.
Legal Matters and Notable Cases
A Dubai civil court recently ordered an Arab family to settle a Dh155,000 bill for a two-year stay at a local hotel. The court also mandated that the family continue to pay daily accommodation charges until they vacate the premises, along with a 5 percent legal interest on the outstanding amount. This case underscores the legal ramifications of extended stays without proper payment arrangements.
Meanwhile, music composer Palash Muchhal has indicated his intention to pursue legal action against individuals spreading what he deems false and defamatory information on social media following the cancellation of his wedding to Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana. He publicly addressed the situation, stating the wedding was called off and condemning the circulation of inaccurate details. This highlights the growing concern over misinformation and the use of legal recourse to address it.
Cultural Highlights and Community News
The Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is gaining attention for its increased focus on female representation in the film industry. Gulf News reports a noticeable shift in the festival’s programming and discussions, with prominent actresses like Aishwarya Rai, Ana de Armas, Dakota Johnson, and Kriti Sanon taking center stage. This signals a broader trend towards empowering women and amplifying their voices within the regional film landscape.
In a heartwarming story, Sakil Khan, an Indian expat in Dubai, shared his experience winning Dh15 million in the Big Ticket lottery in August 2023. Khan reportedly gave away half of his winnings, demonstrating a spirit of generosity and community support. His story was highlighted at the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025, showcasing the life-changing impact of such wins.
Educational Institutions and Regulatory Compliance
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has withdrawn recognition from Midocean University, operating an executive office in Fujairah, due to serious compliance violations. A joint inspection revealed issues that led the ministry to revoke accreditation for all qualifications issued by the university. This action emphasizes the importance of maintaining high educational standards and adhering to regulatory requirements within the UAE education sector.
Road Safety and Traffic Regulations
Drivers in the UAE should be aware of recent updates to speed limits and traffic regulations implemented in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ajman. These changes, introduced by police and transport authorities, aim to enhance road safety, reduce congestion, and improve traffic flow. Updates include variable speed limits, lane restrictions, and revised speed rules on key highways, requiring drivers to stay informed about the latest rules of the road. These changes are part of a wider effort to improve road safety in the UAE.
Looking ahead, the implementation of the new VAT regulations in January 2026 will be a key focus for businesses and consumers. Further details regarding the specific changes are expected to be released by the Ministry of Finance in the coming months. The impact of the standardized Friday prayer timings on school schedules will also be closely monitored as the date approaches. These ongoing developments demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation in various sectors.
