The UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC) has issued a warning about the dangers of using free public Wi-Fi, revealing that more than 12,000 cyber breaches have been recorded so far this year through unsecured networks.

The risk
These incidents made up nearly 35 per cent of all cyberattacks reported in the UAE. Hackers are using open networks to steal passwords, banking details, and other personal information.

Expert warning
Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government, said that while public Wi-Fi may seem convenient, “it is often not sufficiently secured, making it an open arena for fraud and electronic hacking activities.”

Stay safe on public Wi-Fi
The Council urged residents to take simple precautions:

• Use a reliable VPN to encrypt your connection
• Activate the Safe Browsing feature to block suspicious sites
• Avoid logging into sensitive accounts (like banking or personal email) on open Wi-Fi

The CSC stressed that adopting these measures can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks and protect users’ data from being exposed.

UAE residents planning to perform Umrah can now arrange their pilgrimage directly online, thanks to the launch of Nusuk Umrah, a new digital service introduced by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Accessible at umrah.nusuk.sa, the platform allows pilgrims to apply for an Umrah visa and book services in one place, including accommodation, transport, and guided tours. Travellers can either choose ready-made packages or customise their trip according to personal needs and budgets.

The service aims to simplify the journey for Muslims living abroad, offering UAE residents a direct alternative to booking through agents while still keeping that option open for those who prefer it.

Officials said the initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to welcome more visitors and enhance the quality of services for pilgrims.

For many in the UAE, where Umrah is a year-round spiritual journey for families, Nusuk provides greater flexibility and transparency, making it easier than ever to plan a smooth and memorable trip.

How UAE residents can use the Nusuk Umrah platform

1. Visit the official site
Go to umrah.nusuk.sa, the official portal launched by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

2. Create an account
Register with your passport details, email, and mobile number.

3. Apply for an Umrah visa
Submit an application for the e-visa directly through the platform.

4. Book your services
Choose between:

• Complete packages (visa, flights, hotel, transport, tours)
• Individual services (hotel only, bus/flight tickets, or guided tours)

5. Customise your journey
Adjust the length of stay, select preferred accommodation near the Haram, and book transport between Makkah, Madinah, and other cities.

6. Pay securely online
Make payments via the platform’s integrated system.

7. Receive instant confirmations
E-visas, hotel bookings, and transport details are shared directly with you — no middlemen needed.

Pilgrims may choose integrated packages or customise their trip by selecting individual services, tailoring the experience to their needs and budget.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has issued a travel advisory as the summer holidays draw to a close and schools reopen, with more than 3.6 million passengers expected to pass through its terminals until Monday, August 25.

The airport said daily traffic is forecast to average 280,000 passengers. The surge comes as families and students return from their vacations.

DXB, which recently reported handling more than 46 million guests in the first half of 2025, is on track for another record-breaking year.

Preparations and travel tips

Dubai Airports confirmed that it is working closely with airlines, control authorities and service partners to ensure smooth passenger flows during the busy period.

To ease travel, passengers have been advised to:

Use Smart Gates

• UAE residents can clear immigration in seconds (shorter queues than counters)
• Visitors may also be eligible (check via GDRFA: gdrfad.gov.ae)

Plan parking in advance

• No free pick-up zones at DXB
• Car Park A (Premium): Dh30/30 mins, Dh40/2 hrs
• Car Park B (Economy): Dh25/1 hr

Taxis and ride-hailing

Pre-book via Careem, Uber or Bolt to avoid queues

Dubai Metro

• Use Red Line links from Terminals 1 & 3 to the city

Check baggage, hand luggage rules

• Follow liquid and gel restrictions
• Some airlines (especially to India) ban oily foods
• Emirates does not allow power banks on flights (1 unit allowed under limits)
• Controlled medicines require MOHAP approval and a valid prescription

Declare valuables over Dh60,000

• Applies to cash, jewellery, and precious stones

Plan for road traffic

• Expect congestion near DXB during peak travel days
• Check RTA updates and allow extra time for drop-offs/pick-ups