GCC News Roundup: Umrah Pilgrims' Warning, Oman's Affordability, and Hydrogen Power Buses in Makkah
Key Ideas
- Umrah pilgrims cautioned about infection risks ahead of Ramadan, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and preventive measures.
- Oman identified as the most affordable GCC country in a cost of living index, surpassing other nations in the region.
- Second trial of hydrogen fuel cell-powered buses launched in Makkah to explore hydrogen application and transportation, raising public awareness.
- Singapore Airlines announces the return of First Class and Premium Economy Class on the Dubai route for enhanced flight experiences.
In a recent GCC news roundup, doctors have cautioned Umrah pilgrims about infection risks ahead of Ramadan, stressing the need for vaccination and preventive measures to mitigate health concerns due to the expected surge in pilgrim numbers. Oman has been ranked as the most affordable country in the Gulf Cooperation Council according to a cost of living index by Numbeo, leading ahead of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE. Furthermore, a significant development in Makkah involves the launch of the second trial of hydrogen fuel cell-powered buses, a collaborative effort between various authorities to explore hydrogen application in transportation and raise public awareness of hydrogen technology. Additionally, the UAE-Kuwait Week in Dubai saw the presence of Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during its opening ceremony, emphasizing strong bilateral ties. Moreover, a two-year partnership between Creative Media Authority and PopArabia will introduce specialized songwriting camps in Abu Dhabi, enhancing the emirate's position as a Creative City of Music in the UNESCO network. Lastly, Singapore Airlines has announced the reintroduction of First Class and Premium Economy Class on the Singapore-Dubai route, providing passengers with enhanced flight experiences aboard the Boeing 777-300 aircraft.