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Middle East

Middle East Travel Alerts
Source: The National

Major Airlines Extend Flight Suspensions Across the Middle East and UAE

Airlines across the UAE, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Air Arabia, experienced schedule disruptions affecting routes to Saudi Arabia on October 17. Cancellations follow advisories from aviation authorities citing operational constraints and regional security warnings. Certain Emirates services remain suspended through October 18.

China–UAE News
Source: South China Morning Post

Saudi Central Bank Exits China-Backed mBridge Cross-Border Currency Platform

The Saudi Central Bank confirmed on September 22, 2026, that it has ended its formal participation in the mBridge cross-border digital currency platform. The initiative continues to operate with central banks from mainland China, Hong Kong, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Macau. Analysts cited by the South China Morning Post noted that the exit removes the Gulf's largest economy from direct membership.

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