Crucial information essential for UAE residents, effective from July 2025:
Updated Article:
Hey there! Ready to stay in the know on what's popping off in the UAE this July? Here's the lowdown!
Jump on those planes, UAE! Dubai's residents are about to have more destinations to explore without the hassle of a visa. July 1, 2025, marks the start of visa-free travel for citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in Armenia, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period! No more paperwork for those with a valid GCC residency permit with at least six months' validity from the date of entry. This extension of the visa-waiver agreement follows the lead of UAE nationals who have enjoyed visa-free access since 2017, followed by Qataris in 2019 and Kuwaitis in 2022. Now, it's additional freedom for a broader GCC expat population!
Kick smoking to the curb, UAE! On July 29, citizens of the UAE can bid farewell to tobacco and welcome nicotine pouches! These new products, aimed at easing smoking cessation efforts, contain nicotine without the hazardous components of cigarettes. Get ready to make the switch for a healthier lifestyle! The sales will comply with the Cabinet Resolution No. (2) of 2025's technical regulations, ensuring they meet specific safety standards set by the government.
** Less Work, More Play, UAE!** Dubai government employees can enjoy their summers even more starting July 1. The 'Our Flexible Summer' initiative will allow for flexible working schedules while maintaining a standard five-day work week, valid from July 1 to September 12. Each government entity can decide how to implement this internally, continuing the success of last year's pilot, and aiming to boost employee well-being and productivity during the summer period.
** Emiratisation Matters, UAE!** Private sector companies with 50 or more employees in the UAE are reminded to meet their mid-year Emiratisation targets by July 1. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) will begin compliance checks from this date. Companies that fail to meet standards will be slapped with fines. Additionally, MOHRE will verify that Emirati employees are registered with pension funds and are making required monthly contributions to maintain compliance.
** Health does matter, UAE!** Starting at the end of July, Dubai's new Health Law will bring changes to work and residency exams, driving licenses, and more. The law tackles issues related to young people's health, harmful behaviors, elderly care, and substance abuse. The law also introduces health protocols for travelers entering Dubai to prevent the spread of diseases, putting the onus on government agencies to ensure public health and environmental safety.
** School's Out, UAE!** Most schools across the UAE are gearing up for their two-month summer break. Dubai's private schools, according to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), will commence the break on Monday, June 30, and will return to classes on Monday, August 25. Enjoy the sun, fun, and sea breeze, UAE students!
Stay tuned, UAE residents! These changes promise to make your life a bit easier and healthier. Keep learning and evolving with the times!
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- A move towards a healthier lifestyle is now available for UAE residents as they can soon enjoy visa-free travel to Armenia.
- Evidently, education in cessation methods is coming to UAE with the introduction of nicotine pouches on July 29.
- Finance sectors will experience a boost in employee well-being and productivity with the 'Our Flexible Summer' initiative starting July 1.
- Policy-and-legislation related to Emiratisation targets will see increased enforcement from July 1, as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) begins compliance checks.
- The new Health Law, set to take effect at the end of July, will revolutionize work and residency exams, driving licenses, and more, with a focus on public health and environmental safety.
- Education institutions in UAE are readying for the two-month summer break, with most schools set to begin the break on June 30.
- Keep yourself informed on what's shaping the UAE with our Daily Briefing, delivering the latest news straight to your inbox. Science, general-news, and health-and-wellness sectors all contribute to a balanced understanding of the current climate.
