News

UAE weather alert: Brace for blowing sand and drop in temperature

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1 year ago

May 6, 2025

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After hitting a sizzling 47.2°C yesterday in Bada Dafas, Al Dhafra, the UAE is finally in for a bit of relief from the heat, but don’t expect it to be comfortable. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), Tuesday is set to be fair but dusty, with temperatures dipping slightly, especially across western parts of the country.

If you’re inland, you’ll still feel the heat with highs between 39°C and 43°C, while coastal areas and islands can expect slightly cooler conditions hovering between 34°C and 38°C. However, it’ll be cooler in the mountains, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 37°C.

But while it might feel a bit more bearable, dust is the real problem today. Winds will be light to moderate, but could get gusty at times, reaching up to 40 km/h, especially in the west, kicking up sand and dust and reducing visibility on the roads. That means if you’re driving or working outdoors, you’ll want to take extra precautions.

The Arabian Gulf is expected to get rough by the afternoon, shifting from moderate to very rough, while the Oman Sea will also see choppy conditions later tonight.

Authorities are urging the public to stay alert, especially in areas prone to blowing sand. Reduced visibility and compromised air quality can pose serious risks, not just for drivers but also for people with respiratory conditions or those working outside.

If you’re stepping out today, check the weather, wear a mask if needed, and steer clear of open desert roads.

Related Topics:blowingsand Dubai duststorm dustyconditions motoristalert NCM Summer temperatures uae Weather

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Announcements

Small businesses in the UAE now have tax relief until 2029

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2 days ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Small businesses in the UAE with annual revenues of up to Dh3 million will continue to be eligible for Small Business Relief under the corporate tax regime until the end of 2029.

The Ministry of Finance said on Friday that Ministerial Decision No. 131 extends the period during which eligible businesses can benefit from Small Business Relief to cover tax periods ending on or before December 31, 2029.

The relief was introduced to help reduce the corporate tax compliance burden for smaller businesses and start-ups that meet the eligibility requirements.

Dh3 million threshold remains unchanged

The existing annual revenue threshold of Dh3 million, set under Ministerial Decision No. 73 of 2023, will continue to apply.

The relief applies to tax periods beginning on or after June 1, 2023 and, following the latest amendment, will remain available for subsequent tax periods ending on or before December 31, 2029.

Eligible taxable persons with annual revenue of up to Dh3 million can claim Small Business Relief, subject to meeting the conditions and requirements outlined in the corporate tax legislation.

The relief enables qualifying businesses to benefit from simplified corporate tax compliance requirements.

More time for small businesses

The extension provides eligible small businesses and start-ups with additional tax periods to benefit from the relief while continuing to meet the Dh3 million revenue threshold.

The Ministry said the decision is part of its efforts to support smaller companies and entrepreneurs, strengthen the business environment, and encourage sustainable growth and expansion.

News

UAE public holiday announced: 3-day weekend coming up on August 28

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2 days ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Planning your next long weekend? The UAE has confirmed Friday, August 28, as a public holiday for employees in both the public and private sectors.

The holiday commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, an occasion included among the UAE’s official public holidays. As the date follows the Islamic calendar, the timing changes from year to year.

A three-day break for many residents

With the holiday falling on a Friday, employees who follow a Monday-to-Friday working week can enjoy three days off:

Friday, August 28: Public holiday
Saturday, August 29: Weekend
Sunday, August 30: Weekend

That means residents can make the most of the break with a short trip, a staycation or a relaxed weekend at home.

Another UAE holiday is coming

The next major public holiday on the UAE calendar will be Eid Al Etihad, with celebrations and the official holiday scheduled for December 2 and 3.

News

What the UAE’s new vape excise price means for consumers and retailers

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2 days ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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The UAE Ministry of Finance has introduced a new rule that sets a minimum excise price for liquids used in electronic smoking devices.

Beginning September 1, vaping liquids will be subject to a minimum excise price of AED 1 per millilitre.

The ministry confirmed that the existing minimum excise prices for cigarettes, water pipe tobacco (shisha), and other tobacco products will remain unchanged.

According to the ministry, the decision aims to improve tax compliance, respond to developments in the tobacco and vaping industry, and create a more consistent pricing framework across tobacco and electronic smoking products.

The UAE will also continue applying its 100% excise tax on all tobacco products covered under the country’s excise tax regulations.