News

News and insights

Policy updates, China–UAE developments, industry news and official Middle East travel alerts.

Latest

September 25, 2026Source: Condé Nast Traveller Middle East

UAE Suspends Flights by Iranian Airlines Until Further Notice Following US Sanctions

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority suspended all flights operated by Iranian carriers to and from UAE airports starting September 24, 2026, until further notice. The measure aligns with expanding United States aviation sanctions against Iranian airlines. International travelers and connecting flights face route modifications and longer travel times to avoid Iranian airspace.

China–UAE News

September 25, 2026Source: Campaign Middle East

Abu Dhabi Signs Travel Marketing Agreements With Chinese and Global Platforms at ATM

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi signed and renewed over 20 trade and marketing partnerships at Arabian Travel Market to advance its Tourism Strategy 2030. Key pacts include agreements with Chinese online travel leaders Trip.com Group and Qunar to drive longer stays and visitor spending. The deals also encompass collaborations across India, the regional source markets, and the UAE domestic hospitality sector.

China–UAE News

September 25, 2026Source: Campaign Middle East

DCT Abu Dhabi Partners With Trip.com and Qunar at Arabian Travel Market

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi signed and renewed over 20 trade and industry partnerships at Arabian Travel Market, Campaign Middle East reported. The agreements include multi-market initiatives with Chinese platforms Trip.com Group and Qunar to drive long-stay visitors and maximise tourism spending. Across nine joint marketing partnerships, the emirate is targeting 75,500 additional visitors over 12 to 18 months.

Industry News

September 25, 2026Source: Gulf Business

DP World Report Highlights Maritime Trade Resilience as Global Routes Shift

DP World’s Marine Services has released a whitepaper titled 'Navigating the Future of Maritime Trade' to mark World Maritime Day 2026. The report finds that global shipping networks carrying $14 trillion in containerised goods face structural disruptions from tariffs, climate impacts, and shifting manufacturing hubs. It advocates for 'Connected Trade Corridors' integrating feeder shipping, coastal routes, and inland transport to boost supply chain adaptability.