Starting in 2026, the UAE will tax sugary drinks based on their sugar content to encourage healthier consumption and reduce sugar intake/ Image: File UAE to tax sugary drinks based on sugar content starting 2026. Flat 50% tax on sweetened drinks will be replaced by a sugar-based tiered system. More sugar = higher tax; less […]
From August 2025, engineers and accountants in Oman must secure official certification to obtain or renew work permits/Representative Image TL;DR: As of August 1, 2025, engineers in Oman must hold an Oman Society of Engineers (OSE) classification certificate approved by the Sector Skills Unit (SSU) before securing or renewing work permits. From September 1, 2025, […]
US President Donald Trump is planning to reverse environmental regulations introduced during the Biden administration, announcing two years of regulatory relief for coal-fired power plants, chemical manufacturers and other industrial polluters.The decision, framed as a national security measure, was revealed through a series of presidential proclamations issued late on Thursday.The exemptions apply to a broad […]
Medical screening becomes mandatory in Dubai for visas, jobs, and driving licences from July 2025/ Representative Image TL;DR Starting end of July 2025, medical tests are mandatory for visa, work, and licence applications in Dubai. Tests must be done through approved health centers and focus on infectious diseases like HIV and TB. Dubai Health Authority […]
UAE residents enjoy expanding visa-free travel options across popular global destinations in 2025 / Representative Image TL;DR UAE residents, regardless of nationality can enter several countries visa-free. You just need a valid passport and UAE residency visa. Countries include Armenia, Georgia, Seychelles, and more. If you’re living in the UAE and hold a residency visa, […]
Saudi Arabia is using advanced AI and its Absher platform to track visit visa overstays, holding both expats and employers accountable with heavy fines/Representative Image TL;DR: Saudi Arabia introduced a 30-day grace period effective June 26 for expired visit visas this is a major shift from older 90‑day fines. Failure to leave within this window […]
Arabic menus and cultural compliance are a must for restaurants in the UAE /Representative Image TL;DR: Arabic menus and signage aren’t optional. It’s a legal and cultural requirement.Alcohol, pork, and shisha each come with their own set of strict handling rules.UAE law also controls your closing time, packaging, and even your music volume.Owning a restaurant […]
Saudi Arabia introduces a skill-based permit system, transforming the expat workforce/Image: File TL;DR: Saudi Arabia’s new visa policy now considers skills, experience, and salary. Expats are grouped into three levels: high-skilled, skilled, and basic.This change joins with Vision 2030 and big national projects like NEOM and Qiddiya. While professionals may benefit from this system, it […]
Recent US and EU regulations require CBI countries to meet strict vetting standards by 2025, or risk losing visa-free access to the UK and Schengen countries/ (Representative Image) For many expatriates in the UAE, acquiring a second passport through Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs has become a popular route to global mobility, offering visa-free access […]
Supreme court ruled in favor of religion and said Maryland students can’t be forced to read books with gay, transgender characters. The Supreme Court ruled Friday that Maryland parents can pull their children from lessons that cover LGBTQ-themed topics. The Trump administration called it a major win as the administration favored for religious liberty, parental […]
