Top 10 Highlights of the Week: UAE Holidays, Visa-Free Travel, and US-Iran Tensions

Aug 15, 2026

103 min

Aug 15, 2026 08:30

Top 10 stories of the week: UAE holidays, visa-free travel and US-Iran conflict developments

## Dubai Ruler's Message on Family Time Dubai's leader, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, emphasized the importance of family moments over visiting numerous cities. He shared this sentiment alongside a photo with his grandchildren, highlighting the value of creating lasting memories.

## Public Holiday for Prophet Mohammed's Birthday Dubai announced a three-day public holiday for government employees to celebrate the Prophet Mohammed's Birthday. The holiday will begin on August 28, with work resuming on August 31.

## Travel Options for Pakistani Passport Holders Pakistani passport holders have new travel opportunities, with 29 destinations offering visa-free entry, visas on arrival, or electronic travel authorizations. This update comes from the latest Henley Passport Index.

## India's Overseas Funds Rule and UAE NRIs Reports indicate that some banks are reviewing credit cards linked to offshore accounts, raising concerns among UAE-based NRIs. However, India's rules on overseas funds generally do not affect foreign income earned and retained outside the country.

## Big Ticket Abu Dhabi's "Dear Big Ticket" Campaign Big Ticket Abu Dhabi has reintroduced its campaign allowing UAE residents to submit personal wishes for a chance to have them fulfilled without purchasing a ticket.

## Free UAE Visa for Indian Tourists Abu Dhabi offers a free entry visa to Indian tourists booking eligible holidays. The offer requires a minimum three-night hotel stay and a return flight from India, valid until October 31, 2026.

## End of Summer in the UAE The UAE is nearing the end of its peak summer season, with temperatures expected to drop. The period known as Marakhiyat Al Qalaid marks this transition, running from August 11 to September 3.

## Indian Expat Found Dead in Mangaluru A 24-year-old Indian expat from Dubai was found deceased in a Mangaluru hotel. The incident follows the recent death of his sister in Kerala.

## US Military's New Drone Task Force The US Central Command has launched Task Force Falcon Strike, a multinational unit focusing on attack drones. This initiative follows the earlier establishment of a similar task force in the Middle East....

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