Latest news with #EidAlAdha
Khaleej Times
3 hours ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE residents seek cooler, cheaper Eid, summer destinations amid Schengen visa delays
UAE residents are increasingly opting for cooler, more affordable non-Schengen destinations amid visa difficulties and efforts to avoid overcrowded tourist hotspots ahead of Eid Al Adha and the summer break. Travel agencies in the UAE are seeing growing interest in alternative summer destinations, especially those that are visa-friendly and offer a cooler climate. Top choices include Salalah in Oman and Saudi Arabia's Aseer region, along with scenic destinations across Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe such as Bali, Japan, Zanzibar, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia. In the UAE, residents are set to enjoy up to a four-day break during Eid Al Adha next week, from June 5 to 8. Typically, during the school summer break from June to August, UAE citizens and expats flock to cooler European destinations like the UK, Switzerland, France, Germany, and Italy. However, this year, widespread visa delays are prompting a shift in travel plans. Appointments for the 29-country Schengen area remain unavailable until mid-August, and US visa slots are similarly backed up for the coming quarters. 'We've seen a noticeable increase in searches for non-Schengen, cooler destinations compared to the same period last year,' said Mamoun Hmidan, chief business officer at Wego. 'Delays in Schengen and US visa processing, combined with a preference for short-notice travel and less paperwork, are driving this shift. Travellers are also becoming more aware of beautiful, lesser-known alternatives.' Rashida Zahid, vice president of operations at confirmed the trend, particularly among last-minute travellers. 'There's a clear shift toward destinations that are easier to access and have pleasant weather, rather than traditional European hotspots,' she noted. Top visa-friendly summer escapes For GCC travellers, nearby cooler destinations such as Aseer and Abha in Saudi Arabia, particularly after Hajj, and Salalah in Oman during the Khareef season are becoming popular choices, thanks to their convenient e-visa options. Other popular options include Zanzibar, Bali, Japan, and Nepal, which also offer similarly straightforward entry procedures. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations including Georgia, Almaty (Kazakhstan), Armenia, Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Turkish cities like Trabzon and Antalya are gaining popularity. These places offer a mix of mountain retreats, coastal escapes, and lush landscapes — ideal for beating the UAE's intense summer heat without breaking the bank. Affordable getaway options Rashida Zahid shared that all-inclusive packages for cooler destinations start at just Dh2,200 for a 4-night, 5-day trip, covering flights, accommodation, transfers, and tours. Mamoun Hmidan added that Georgia's capital, Tbilisi, and its mountainous regions like Kazbegi are popular among UAE residents due to their cool temperatures, cultural richness, and visa-free entry. Average airfare is around $375 (Dh1,375). Armenia is another top choice, offering e-visa or visa-free access and average airfares of just $232 (Dh850), making it highly attractive for budget-conscious travellers. Azerbaijan's capital Baku is also gaining traction, combining a cosmopolitan vibe with cool Caspian breezes. 'There's a clear shift toward destinations that are affordable, easy to enter, and offer a break from the heat,' Hmidan noted. Discovering hidden gems UAE residents are increasingly opting for travel 'off the beaten path,' in line with the global post-pandemic trend of avoiding crowded tourist hubs and discovering hidden gems. 'Many travellers are adjusting their timelines due to visa appointment delays, booking more flexible and refundable trips, and selecting backup destinations with easier visa access,' said Hmidan. Rashida Zahid observed that travellers are becoming more proactive, planning trips four to six months in advance — especially for the busy summer season — due to limited visa appointment availability.
Khaleej Times
3 hours ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Teachers question salary cuts during Eid Al Adha holidays
As the UAE prepares for the upcoming Eid Al Adha holidays from June 5 to June 8, many schoolteachers are raising concern over what they say is an unfair and unlawful practice: having their entire absence — including public holidays and weekends — deducted from their salaries when they take a few days off to travel. Under Article 28 of Federal Decree Law No. (33) of 2021, employees are entitled to full pay on public holidays declared by the UAE Cabinet. If a public holiday falls within a period of annual leave, it must not be deducted from salary or leave balance. Yet, several teachers say that's exactly what's happening in many schools. 'I've taken just three days off before Eid to visit my family abroad,' said a teacher at a British curriculum school in Dubai. 'But HR has already told me my salary will be deducted for the entire week, including the Eid holidays and the weekend. When I tried to reason with them, they said this is how it's always done and that teachers already get enough time off in summer and winter.' She disagrees. 'These breaks are not a favour. They're part of the academic calendar. Public holidays are paid by law. It's time schools stop treating them as if they're optional or conditional.' According to teachers, even taking a single day off, like a Monday, can result in two days of salary being docked, as it's clubbed with Sunday. 'If you take Monday off, they count Sunday and Monday as leave and cut pay accordingly,' said another teacher at an Indian school. 'It makes you think twice before applying for even a day.' Several teachers told Khaleej Times they don't object to pay cuts for the days they actually take off. 'We understand that if we apply for leave from Monday to Wednesday, our salary will be deducted for those three days,' said a teacher in Sharjah. 'What we don't understand is why Eid holidays and weekends, which are paid days under UAE law, are also counted as unpaid.' One teacher, who has worked in four different schools over the past 20 years, said the practice is widespread. 'It doesn't matter if it's a British, or Indian curriculum, almost every school I've worked at does this. It's like an unwritten rule.' 'Entities should follow the law' In response to a Khaleej Times query, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which regulates private schools in Dubai, said matters related to employment contracts and salary deductions fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). A spokesperson at MoHRE reaffirmed the legal position saying there are clear guidelines stating that public holidays are separate from annual leave. 'Eid holidays are Eid holidays, and entities should follow the law,' he said. A major operator of a private school network in the UAE declined to comment when contacted by Khaleej Times. A principal of a private Asian school admitted that their policy does not allow teachers to club any breaks with personal leave. 'Hence,' she said, 'if leave is taken prior to Eid, deductions will apply for the entire period, including the Eid break." But teachers say longstanding practices shouldn't justify bad ones. 'Just because this has been happening for years doesn't make it right,' said a teacher. 'If this is about policy, then why don't other sectors do the same? How come hospitals, banks, and companies don't dock salaries like this? Are schools above the law?' With Eid Al Adha just days away, teachers are urging school managements to scrap unfair deductions and align with federal law. 'We're not asking for a favour,' said one. 'Just don't cut our pay for public holidays. That's it."
Arabian Business
4 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Eid Al Adha 2025 dates announced; UAE petrol prices change; new tax rule revealed; Dubai real estate tokenisation – 10 things you missed this week
The UAE has announced Eid Al Adha holiday dates for the public and private sectors next week. The long-awaited announcement came during a week which also saw updated tax rules, the imminent change of petrol prices, a Dubai real estate tokenisation project and more. Catch up on 10 of the biggest news stories this week, as selected by Arabian Business editors. UAE announces Eid Al Adha 2025 holidays The UAE has announced Eid Al Adha 2025 holidays for the public and private sectors. The holidays will begin on 09 Dhu Al-Hijjah 1446 AH, corresponding to Thursday, June 05, 2025, and will continue until 12 Dhu Al-Hijjah 1446 AH, corresponding to Sunday, June 08, 2025. Official work will resume on Monday, June 09, 2025. UAE petrol prices to change for June 2025 The UAE is set to announce petrol prices for June 2025 this week. Petrol prices increased fractionally in May, following two months of increases, although prices for motorists filling up on Super 98, Special 95, E-Plus 91 and diesel have remained stable. It is currently significantly cheaper to fill up a tank than year ago, with all categories becoming more affordable, despite prices fluctuating throughout the past 12 months. The UAE Ministry of Finance has issued a Cabinet Decision introducing a new tax treatment option for unincorporated partnerships. The move is part of the government's ongoing efforts to enhance tax transparency and improve the business environment. Under the Federal Decree-Law No. (47) of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses, unincorporated partnerships are generally regarded as tax transparent entities. New Dubai road to cut journey times from 20 minutes to just 3.5 A new road in Dubai will slash journey times in one neighbourhood from 20 minutes to less than four. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to open a new entry and exit point to Al Warqa directly from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road early June 2025, aiming to facilitate smoother access to and from the neighbourhood. Once complete, the project will increase road capacity by 5,000 vehicles per hour, reduce travel time by 80 per cent—from 20 minutes to just 3.5 minutes—and cut trip distances from 5.7km to 1.5km. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE), and the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) as part of the Real Estate Sandbox. Zand Digital Bank has been appointed as the banking partner for the pilot phase. Binghatti Holding Ltd has acquired freehold land spanning over 8 million square feet of gross floor area for its first large-scale master-planned residential community in Dubai. The Dubai-based real estate developer, known for luxury-branded residences, expects the development to have a total value exceeding AED 25 billion. The land sits in Nad Al Sheba 1 within Dubai's Meydan district. The area previously housed the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, which served as the former venue for the Dubai World Cup. The location maintains connections to major roads and sits near Dubai's key landmarks. Disneyland Abu Dhabi triggers real estate shift: Price moves, investor interest and new hotspots identified Disney recently announced a theme park in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, marking its seventh destination globally. According to real estate experts, the announcement is already positively impacting the capital's property market. While the project is years from completion, early signs point to growing investor interest, increased inquiries for off-plan units, and early price adjustment discussions. 'Even for an established, world-class tourism and leisure hub, Yas Island's recent announcement of Disneyland Abu Dhabi is a major touristic coup, and yet another reason why Yas is one of Abu Dhabi's most dynamic residential investment destinations. The news has put Yas firmly in the spotlight and immediately boosted investor confidence in this world-class destination,' Riyad Magdy, Chairman and Founder, Oia Properties, said in an exclusive interview with Arabian Business. EXCLUSIVE: Dubai real estate giant Sobha Realty eyes 3 Texas cities for major U.S. expansion Dubai-headquartered luxury property developer Sobha Realty has revealed more of its plans to expand into the United States market, with Texas cities forming the 'cornerstone' of its international growth strategy. The company, which has operated in the UAE since 2013, will focus on Dallas, Houston, and Austin for its U.S. debut. In an exclusive interview with Arabian Business, Ravi Menon — Chairman of Sobha Group — cited the cities' rapid population growth, strong economic fundamentals, and demand for luxury residential developments as key factors in the decision. UAE malls in 'non-prime' areas could face pressure from Chinese goods diversion amid U.S. tariffs The new U.S. tariffs imposed by Donald Trump could create 'ripple effects' throughout global supply chains that could eventually reach the UAE market, according to PP Varghese, Head of Professional Services at Cushman & Wakefield Core. 'While the UAE doesn't heavily import directly from the US, many products pass through complex international supply chains where tariff-related price increases get passed down,' he told Arabian Business. UAE takes legal action against 30 domestic worker recruitment rulebreakers The UAE is penalising domestic worker recruitment offices over rule breaking and violations of guidelines. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has taken legal action against 30 domestic worker recruitment offices across the UAE after confirming their involvement in 89 violations flagged during the first three months of 2025. The measures form part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to implement its integrated field and digital monitoring system, which aims to identify and address any violations by domestic worker recruitment offices and ensure their compliance with relevant legislation.
Morocco World
6 hours ago
- Morocco World
ONCF Unveils Expanded Train Program for Eid Al Adha
Rabat – The Moroccan National Railways Office (ONCF) has announced an expanded train schedule ahead of the Eid Al Adha. The program will run from May 30 to June 15 to help travelers move easily and safely during the holiday. According to a statement from ONCF, the plan includes up to 237 trains per day across the national network. Extra trains will be added, especially on the main routes that usually see more passengers during busy times. As for Al Boraq high-speed trains, ONCF will run trains every hour from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (except at 1 p.m.) connecting Tangier, Kenitra, Rabat, and Casablanca. More seats will also be available during peak travel times, added the statement. The Atlas trains will also have more capacity and extra trips on the main routes, including Marrakech – Casablanca – Fez, Oujda, Nador, Khouribga, and Safi. ONCF said it will increase the number of staff at stations and on board to assist passengers. Technical teams will also be on duty 24/7 to ensure a smooth travel experience. ONCF is asking passengers to buy their round-trip tickets early to avoid long lines and to make sure they get a seat. Morocco will celebrate Eid Al Adha on June 7.
Time Out Abu Dhabi
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Eid fireworks in Abu Dhabi: all the spots in the capital to watch the displays
Eid Al Adha in the UAE is here and with it come the traditional Eid firework displays we all love. There will be beautiful shows all over the capital, so make sure you plan ahead to get a good view. From the centrally located Corniche all the way to Yas Bay, you'll be spoilt for choice. More: The best things to do for Eid Al Adha in Abu Dhabi Eid fireworks in Abu Dhabi: where to watch the displays Eid fireworks in Yas Island Yas Island is really spoiling us with not one, not two, but three (!!) days of fireworks! On all three days of Eid – from Friday June 6 to Sunday June 8 – head down to Yas Bay Waterfront for beautiful displays over the water. With plenty of excellent dining options (including a few of our Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards winners), it's the perfect excuse to enjoy an evening with family or friends. Free. Fri Jun 6-Sun Jun 8 9pm. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island. Eid fireworks in the Corniche If you find yourself in Abu Dhabi city, then head to the Corniche for the Eid fireworks display. With a beautiful promenade by the water, it's a great place to unwind – especially since there will be no work in the morning. Free. Fri Jun 6, 9pm. The Corniche, Abu Dhabi. Eid fireworks in Al Ain If you find yourself in beautiful Al Ain over Eid, then head to Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium at 9pm on all three days of Eid for a spectacular fireworks display. Free. Fri Jun 6-Sun Jun 8 9pm. Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain. Dates, times and locations were correct at the time of publishing. Please check for the latest updates. Eid in Abu Dhabi How to celebrate Eid Al Adha in Abu Dhabi Start planning now The best beaches in Abu Dhabi for a relaxing day in the sun Ready, set, sunbathe 12 fantastic road trips across the GCC Fill up the tank and go
