The United Arab Emirates has launched the first phase of the Blue Visa system, a 10-year residence visa dedicated to individuals contributing to environmental sustainability. Announced during the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai (February 11–13), the initiative is led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in collaboration with the Federal Authority for…
The UAE’s highly anticipated weight loss challenge is back, offering participants the chance to earn up to Dh300 for every kilogram lost. Now in its fifth edition, the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) will run for 12 weeks, from February 21 to May 22, with registration now open for free. Exciting New Categories This…
If you’re visiting Abu Dhabi or need a temporary public transport solution, Abu Dhabi Mobility (AD Mobility) offers cost-effective unlimited bus travel passes. These passes allow unlimited rides within Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra for either seven or 30 days. However, they do not cover intercity bus routes. Pass Options and Pricing…
Moscow City Tourism officials are optimistic that Russia’s expanded e-visa system, covering 60 nationalities, will attract more UAE-based expatriates. While Emirati citizens already enjoy visa-free entry to Russia for up to 90 days, expatriates from India, China, Austria, Japan, and several European nations can now apply for an e-visa online, receiving approval within four to…
To mark the 60th anniversary of strong ties between India and Singapore, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is rolling out special offers for Indian passport holders. In an exclusive interview, Consul-General Cheong Ming Foong and STB Regional Director Markus Tan shared the exciting initiatives aimed at further strengthening the bond between the two countries. In…
The Union Budget 2025 introduces tougher tax rules for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), including students and young professionals living abroad. Key changes include stricter monitoring of foreign income, expanded residency definitions for taxation, and potential impacts on tax treaty benefits. Students working in countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia will face increased reporting…
Air India Express is expanding its services, making travel between the UAE and India more convenient. Starting February 4, the airline will introduce new routes to destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Dammam, responding to the increasing demand from UAE travelers. The UAE-India corridor is one of the world’s busiest, serving millions…
Indian passport holders with valid US, UK, or EU tourist visas or resident permits can now easily obtain a visa on arrival in the UAE. This article covers eligibility, costs, duration, and the online application process. EligibilityIndian nationals and their family members with ordinary passports are eligible if they hold: Visa Duration Costs How to…
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has informed a Parliamentary Standing Committee that it is working on a new law to safeguard the rights of over 1.5 crore Indians employed overseas. The Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, presented its report to the House on Monday. The report mentioned that…
Ashik Patinharath, an Indian expatriate who has lived in Sharjah for 19 years, has struck gold by winning the Dh25 million grand prize in Big Ticket’s series 271 draw held in Abu Dhabi. The 38-year-old, originally from Kerala, has been purchasing tickets for the past 10 years, making nearly 100 attempts before finally winning—this time…
Peer Mohammad Adam, a 41-year-old Indian expat, has become the first-ever winner of the Dh1 million UAE Lottery prize. Adam, who works as a senior electrician with a public utility company in Dubai, entered the draw with a group of 20 friends. “We decided to pool our money and buy tickets together. This was my…
Air India Express, the low-cost subsidiary of Air India, has announced an increase in free check-in baggage allowances on international routes to the Middle East and Singapore. This enhancement is part of the airline’s commitment to offering more value to its passengers. Travelers can now enjoy a 30kg check-in baggage allowance, along with 7kg cabin…