The UAE has made announcements this week to clarify holidays for 2025, petrol prices for June and rules concerning notice periods for employees in the country.
It means people are able to start planning vacations for next year in advance and fill up cars for less money than last month.
There is more good news in Dubai as a three-day super sale with discounts of up to 90 per cent has been launched for the weekend.
Elsewhere, the world’s best airlines have been named in a prestigious annual ceremony, an analysis revealed how much it really costs to live in the Burj Khalifa and a stunning musical fire show was announced at Dubai Square.
Catch up with 10 of the biggest stories this week, as selected by Arabian Business editors.
UAE announces petrol, diesel prices for June 2024
The UAE has announced that fuel prices for June has decreased.
While the prices of gasoline and diesel have fluctuated over the last 12 months, they are presently not as high as they were during the same period last year.
From June 1 the cost of filling up vehicles in the UAE will be:
- Super 98 – AED3.14 a litre from AED3.34 in May
- Special 95 – AED3.02 a litre from AED3.22 in May
- Diesel – AED2.88 a litre from AED3.07 in May
- E-Plus – AED2.95 a litre from AED3.15 in May
UAE announces notice period rules: how long do you need to work, are bosses able to withhold salary, can you take leave and more questions answered
The UAE has announced rules on notice periods and contract termination in the country.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation explained notice period rules for employees in the UAE who have a contract terminated. According to the MOHRE both employer and employee can terminate a contract, so long as they abide by the terms and conditions laid out.
The MOHRE further explained that notice periods in the UAE must be between 30 and 90 days and that workers are required to fulfil their duties throughout the notice period. If either party fails to serve a notice period they must pay the other a “notice period allowance”, which is equal to the worker’s wage for the full notice period or in proportion to the remaining period.
World’s Best Airlines 2024 revealed: Qatar Airways, Emirates and Etihad in top 10
It named Qatar Airways as its Airline of the Year for 2024. Qatar Airways nudged out previous winners Air New Zealand as well as Korean Air, Cathay Pacific Airways and Emirates for the top spot.
Best-In-Flight Entertainment and Best Premium Economy went to Emirates, while Qantas picked up Best Lounges. Etihad Airways picked up Best Environmental Airline for the third year running.
UAE visit visa: Dubai travellers to carry AED3,000 cash, return flight ticket, proof of accommodation
“Under the UAE immigration rules, visitors to Dubai on a visit visa are expected to meet certain requirements. Firstly, visitors should be able to provide either a hotel booking or the address of a relative. While this is often only checked if immigration officials are suspicious,” said Rikin Sheth, Assistant Vice President, musafir.com.
He further explained that passengers are required to carry between AED3,000 and AED5,000 to “demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay.” Additionally, visitors must have a return flight ticket and proof of accommodation.
Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar announces plans for The Music, Colour, and Fire Plaza at Dubai Square in Dubai Creek Harbour
Strategically located near Dubai Creek Tower, the plaza will feature a blend of fire, vibrant colour displays, and synchronised music. When the multimedia displays are inactive, the plaza will seamlessly transition into a welcoming public space, designed to encourage social interaction and engagement.
Emaar is currently in discussions with a prominent Chinese technology firm, renowned for their expertise in creating iconic multimedia installations, to work on the project. This collaboration aims to integrate state-of-the-art technology with artistic design, ensuring the plaza becomes a landmark feature of Dubai Creek Harbour.
UAE announces 2025 public holidays
The resolution was issued after reviewing the Constitution; Federal Law No. 11 of 2017 on granting the Cabinet certain competencies; Federal Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations and its amendments; Federal Law No. 49 of 2022 on Human Resources in the Federal Government; and Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2019 concerning Public Holidays in the state and its amendments.
Dubai billionaire migration: Footballers, rappers, royalty flocking to UAE trigger new breed of luxury services as ‘fashion sourcers’ enter market
Billed as fashion sources, these companies, which are in the business of curating and supplying the world’s most rare and exclusive items from across various categories, are currently looking to expand their services in the UAE – and the wider Middle East – to the hospitality and travel segments, with plans to tie-up with top hotel and resort chains, chartered flight operators and yacht clubs to provide exclusive services to their celebrity clients.
The companies, which boast of an envious client list – figuring the sport and music celebrities such as the British football legend Beckhams and American rapper and singer Gunna, popular hip-hop groups including D Block Europe and the American group Migos, besides members of the some of the world’s richest business families, are also eyeing to on-board several members of the region’s royal families for providing exclusive services to meet their requirements on their travels around the world.
Palm Jebel Ali: Dubai real estate giant Nakheel awards infrastructure contracts
The contract for a public access road from Sheikh Zayed Road to Palm Jebel Ali, and a construction road serving the Palm’s central area, went to DBB Contracting LLC. “When completed, the new public access road will offer a beautifully landscaped and convenient path, spanning nearly 6 kilometres, leading directly on to Palm Jebel Ali,” the statement said.
DBB Contracting and Dutco Construction are UAE-based civil and marine contractors.
Dubai real estate: How much does it cost to live in the Burj Khalifa? Details revealed
The Burj Khalifa stands as the world’s tallest building, often adding value to apartments with views of the skyscraper but how much does it cost to live within the building itself? Both owning and renting in the Burj Khalifa comes with sky-high price tags alongside the exclusivity of the address.
The tower offers a range of residential units, each offering views of the city’s skyline. The cost varies depending on the size and location of the unit. The building houses 900 luxury residences from studios to five-bedroom apartments.
Residents of the building get access to several facilities including a library, meeting space, jacuzzis, pools, parks, tennis court and more.
Dubai announces 3-day super sale with 90% savings at 2,000 stores
Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the popular shopping event offers residents and visitors incredible savings of up to 90 per cent at more than 2,000 participating outlets and 500 top brands.
Shoppers can find unbeatable deals on everything from fashion and beauty to electronics, homeware, and much more.