(Credit - Arabian Post)
GCC Economic Outlook: Conflict-Driven Contraction in 2026, Sharp Rebound in 2027
The strategic intent behind the GCC’s economic development is to position the region as a major player in the global economy, leveraging its vast energy resources and strategic location. The ICAEW–Oxford Economics Economic Insight report forecasts a 2.4% contraction in GCC GDP in 2026, followed by an 8.1% rebound in 2027, as energy exports recover, travel demand returns, and business confidence improves. This development is driven by the expected reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which will normalize trade and reduce shipping risk premia.
Driver: Economic Factors
The economic factors driving the GCC’s growth profile are highly sensitive to energy export volumes and shipping insurance costs. Any disruption or normalization around the Strait of Hormuz has a significant impact on GDP. The reopening of the Strait is expected to reduce freight and risk premia, support crude and LNG export flows, and improve fiscal receipts that feed into public spending and project pipelines.Driver: Geopolitical Factors
The geopolitical factors driving the GCC’s growth profile are centered around regional stability and security conditions. The conflict-driven disruption in 2026 is expected to depress output, while improved stability and normalized trade are expected to lift exports, tourism, and confidence in 2027. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a critical factor in this regard, as it will enable the free flow of trade and reduce the risk of disruption.Driver: Demographic Factors
The demographic factors driving the GCC’s growth profile are centered around travel demand and business confidence. The return of travel demand and improvement in business confidence are expected to drive growth in the hospitality, aviation, and trade-linked services sectors. The GCC’s young and growing population is also expected to drive demand for goods and services, contributing to economic growth.The ripple effect of the GCC‘s economic development will be felt across various stakeholder groups. For entrepreneurs and small business owners, the expected rebound in 2027 presents opportunities for growth and expansion. However, it also requires careful planning and management to navigate the challenges of the contraction in 2026. For investors, the forecast presents a two-speed planning problem, requiring cost control and liquidity resilience in 2026, followed by capacity, hiring, and supply-chain readiness in 2027. For policymakers, the forecast highlights the need for careful management of regional stability and security conditions, as well as the importance of investing in infrastructure and human capital to support long-term economic growth.
The contrarian view is that the forecast may be overly optimistic, and that the risks to the outlook are significant. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is not guaranteed, and the region’s security conditions remain fragile. Additionally, the forecast assumes a sharp rebound in energy exports, travel demand, and business confidence, which may not materialize. However, the ICAEW-Oxford Economics Economic Insight report provides a credible and well-researched forecast, and the expected rebound in 2027 is driven by fundamental factors that are likely to support growth.
US ammo stockpiles: Trump says 'massive amounts' remain
Trump: US Has 'Massive Amounts' of Ammo Left
President Donald Trump has pushed back against reports that the US has critically depleted its key missile and interceptor stockpiles after six months of conflict with Iran, stating that the military is "in great shape" and possesses "literally massive amounts of ammunition." Trump addressed questions about a supplemental funding request and recent media accounts of shortages, saying "We have certain types of munitions that are very powerful that we have unlimited, virtual unlimited supply." The US Air Force has used precision munitions and air-defence interceptors extensively, drawing scrutiny over stockpile levels.
The US-Iran conflict has raised concerns over the depletion of precision missiles, such as ATACMS and Precision Strike Missiles, with reports suggesting the US Army has used "virtually all" of its global stockpile. Patriot interceptors are also down substantially, with estimates suggesting roughly half to two-thirds have been expended. THAAD interceptors have seen major reductions, with reports ranging from 38% to 80% of pre-war stocks. Despite these concerns, Trump has requested additional congressional funding, estimated to be around $21 billion, to restock munitions, framing the need as ongoing prudence rather than a crisis.
The conflict has stretched into its sixth month, far longer than the initial four-to-six-week timeline projected by some officials. Think-tank analyses have warned that replenishing these systems to pre-war levels could take years, due to production constraints. Trump has indicated that the Iran conflict "is going to end soon," and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has maintained that stockpiles remain strong. The US is seeking to expand production of munitions, with defence companies building new plants and factories.
This development comes after a Reuters report stated that the US Army has used "virtually all" of its global stockpile of long-range precision missiles, and a Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) analysis estimated that roughly half to two-thirds of Patriot interceptors have been expended. The Washington Post also reported that hundreds to over a thousand Tomahawk cruise missiles have been used in the early phases of the conflict. The US is working to restock its munitions, with Trump requesting additional funding to support the effort.
The situation is being closely monitored, with concerns over the readiness of the US military for potential contingencies elsewhere, such as the Indo-Pacific. The US is seeking to balance its military efforts with the need to replenish its stockpiles, and Trump's request for additional funding is seen as a key step in this process. As the conflict continues, the US will need to carefully manage its resources to ensure it can respond effectively to emerging threats.
In related news, the US has been expanding its production of munitions, with defence companies building new plants and factories. This effort is seen as critical to replenishing the US stockpiles and ensuring the military has the resources it needs to respond to emerging threats. The US is also working to improve its logistics and supply chain management, to ensure that munitions can be delivered quickly and efficiently to where they are needed.
Air Canada Dubai flights suspended
Air Canada Dubai flights grounded until 2027
Air Canada has confirmed that its Dubai route will remain suspended until mid-January 2027. Travellers flying with the airline will need to make alternative plans, as the carrier has stated that flights to and from Dubai continue to be suspended and will remain cancelled until mid-January 2027. This announcement applies only to Air Canada's Dubai services, and passengers with bookings on the affected airline are encouraged to check directly with the carrier for the latest information on rebooking, refunds, or alternative travel arrangements.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) continues to operate as one of the world's busiest airports, with hundreds of airlines connecting the city to destinations across the globe every day. The good news for travellers is that Dubai's international connectivity remains strong, with a number of global carriers either returning to the emirate or increasing their services as the winter travel season approaches. Among the airlines expected to operate flights to Dubai later this year are British Airways, Cathay Pacific, KLM, Singapore Airlines, and Lufthansa, as they roll out their winter schedules.
Meanwhile, Emirates has released an updated travel advice ahead of one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with large numbers of passengers expected to pass through Dubai International Airport (DXB) during the school holidays. To help travellers avoid unnecessary delays, Emirates is encouraging passengers to plan ahead, use early check-in services where possible, and allow extra time before their flight. Passengers are advised to arrive at Dubai International Airport at least three hours before their scheduled departure, as security and immigration queues may take longer than normal during the busy summer period.
This suspension of Air Canada's Dubai route is a continuation of previous disruptions, and travellers are advised to check with the airline for the latest information on their travel plans. With other major global carriers maintaining robust connectivity at Dubai International Airport (DXB) for the upcoming winter travel season, passengers have alternative options available.
GTA 6 Netflix Preview Set for August 28
GTA 6 Extended Preview Hits Netflix August 28
Rockstar Games has announced that the extended preview for Grand Theft Auto VI will debut on Netflix on August 28, 2026, before becoming available on Rockstar's own platforms a few hours later. Fans in the UAE can watch the preview on Netflix at 12:30am UAE time, while those without a subscription will have to wait until 6:30am UAE time to view it on Rockstar's YouTube channel and official website.
This move marks a first for Rockstar, as the developer has chosen to partner with a streaming service for an exclusive early premiere. The extended preview's content remains under wraps, leaving fans to speculate about what it might include, such as gameplay, exploration of Vice City, or details about the game's characters and story.
The extended preview arrives just a few months before the game's official launch, currently scheduled for November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. This update is the biggest since Rockstar confirmed the launch date, and it has already sparked significant discussion online.
The GTA 6 extended preview on Netflix is a significant event for fans, especially in the UAE, where they can watch it before the rest of the world. With the game's release date approaching, this preview is expected to generate even more excitement and anticipation among gamers.
A similar preview event has not occurred in the past, as Rockstar usually releases trailers and gameplay videos on its own platforms. The decision to partner with Netflix for this exclusive premiere is a notable shift in the company's strategy, and it will be interesting to see how it affects the game's overall release and reception.
Dubai E-Scooter Fines: Up to Dh300 for Violations
Ride Safe: Dubai E-Scooter Fines Now Up to Dh300
As of May 1, 2026, Dubai has deployed a dedicated Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit to strictly enforce e-scooter and bicycle regulations. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police have outlined specific rules and fines for e-scooter riders to ensure public safety and promote responsible riding.
E-scooter riders in Dubai are expected to follow all traffic rules and adhere to road markings. The RTA has set a maximum speed limit of 20km/h for e-scooters in shared zones, which will be clearly mentioned on road signs. Riders must also maintain a safe distance from other road users and give way to pedestrians, slowing down or dismounting at pedestrian crossings or in crowded areas.
There are 21 designated zones across Dubai where e-scooters are allowed, including popular areas like Jumeirah Lake Towers, Downtown, Al Rigga, and Dubai Internet City. However, riding on highways, footpaths, or roads with a speed limit over 60 km/h is strictly prohibited.
To ride an e-scooter in Dubai, you don't need a full driving license, but you do need a permit from the RTA, which can be obtained online by completing a short training course and test. The permit is free and can be obtained through the "RTA Dubai" app by uploading a copy of your Emirates ID, a personal photo, and your scooter's details.
Fines for violating e-scooter rules in Dubai vary depending on the offense. Some common penalties include:
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Failure to comply with speed limits | Dh100 |
| Riding without a valid RTA permit | Dh200 |
| Parking a scooter in non-designated zones or obstructing traffic | Dh200 |
| Carrying a passenger on an electric scooter | Dh300 |
| Riding an e-scooter on a road with a speed limit over 60km/h | Dh300 |
To avoid these fines, e-scooter riders must be at least 16 years old, wear safety gear, and follow all RTA rules. The RTA mandates that e-scooters must not exceed a maximum speed of 30 km/h, though speed limits within specific zones are often lower. The scooter must have functional front and rear brakes, a bell, front white and rear red lights, and reflectors.
In summary, e-scooter riders in Dubai must follow the rules and regulations set by the RTA and Dubai Police to avoid fines and ensure public safety. By obtaining a permit, following speed limits, and riding responsibly, riders can enjoy the freedom of e-scooters while minimizing the risk of penalties.
UAE Marriage Contract Online: AED 300 Fee, Eligibility, and Steps
Tie the Knot in the UAE: AED 300 Online Marriage Contract, No Residency Required
Getting married in the UAE just got a whole lot easier. With the introduction of online marriage contract applications, couples can now tie the knot without the hassle of lengthy bureaucratic processes. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) portal and the eZawaj system allow for easy and convenient registration of civil and Islamic marriages. In this article, we'll break down the fees, eligibility, and steps required for an online marriage contract in the UAE.
The fee for a civil marriage contract in Abu Dhabi starts at AED 300 for regular processing, which takes up to 10 working days. For those in a hurry, an express service is available for AED 2,500, with processing completed within a day. In Dubai, the marriage certificate fee is AED 220. It's worth noting that tourists can also get married in Abu Dhabi, with no residency requirements.
To be eligible for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, the bride and groom must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, the judge's approval is required. Additionally, a spouse's age should not be twice the other, and a premarital screening certificate is mandatory. The screening aims to safeguard the health of the couple by ensuring no potential infections are transmitted between them.
For Islamic marriages, the process is slightly different. The marriage contract should be registered in a Sharia Court in the UAE, and the bride and groom must meet certain requirements, including a premarital screening certificate. The eZawaj system, provided by the Ministry of Justice, allows for online marriage contracts to be completed at every stage, from submitting the application to paying fees electronically.
In terms of documents required, couples will need to provide a completed and signed marriage application form, a copy of both parties' passports or Emirates IDs, and proof of dissolution of a previous marriage or death certificate of an expired spouse, if applicable. A prenuptial agreement is optional but will cost AED 950.
The UAE offers three distinct legal routes to register a marriage: civil, Sharia, and home-country attestation. Each route has different eligibility rules, documents, fees, and implications for spouse visas, inheritance, and international recognition. Whether you're a resident or a tourist, getting married in the UAE has never been more straightforward.
For those looking to register their marriage in the UAE, the process can be completed online through the ADJD portal or the eZawaj system. With the introduction of online marriage contract applications, the UAE has streamlined the process, making it easier for couples to tie the knot.
If you're planning to get married in the UAE, here are the next steps to take:
- Prepare the required documents, including a completed and signed marriage application form and a copy of both parties' passports or Emirates IDs.
- Book an appointment through the Sharia court or the ADJD portal.
- Select an authorized marriage official and pay the fees electronically.
- Attend the marriage ceremony with the required witnesses and documents.
