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GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi stated that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait are close to beginning the official process for Schengen visa-free travel. A formal announcement is expected at the second EU-GCC Summit in Riyadh on October 24. Currently, the UAE is the only GCC member state whose citizens can travel to the Schengen Area without a visa.
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Experience Abu Dhabi have officially launched the emirate's upcoming events season, featuring more than 40 spectacles running through early 2027. The lineup spans major international sports, arts exhibitions, festivals, and live music performances. Key highlights include the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the inaugural Frieze Abu Dhabi, and the opening of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
The United States has revoked presidential determinations dating back to 1985 that restricted flights between the US and Lebanon. US President Donald Trump signed the order, directing transportation authorities to remove regulatory bans immediately. Lebanese officials welcomed the decision, though direct commercial flights will not resume right away.
The fourth Emirates Perfumes and Oud Exhibition and second Middle East Cosmetics Show opened at Expo Centre Sharjah. Running through October 18, the event hosts over 200 companies and 700 brands, including participants from China and the Gulf.
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