Middle East Updates: From Disneyland Abu Dhabi to Saudi Summer Deals
Explore the latest Middle East updates, from record-breaking tourist spots and tech innovations to family-friendly experiences and lifestyle trends. Stay ahead with news on UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and more.
Middle East UpdatesTourismReal EstateEcofriendly ProjectsQuickcommerceReal EstateAug 14, 2025
### 1. Wakan Village in Oman Breaks Visitor Records
Wadi Mistal’s Wakan Village in Nakhal is attracting more visitors than ever. Between January and July 2025, the picturesque destination welcomed 27,428 travellers, up from 24,093 last year. Its mild climate, seasonal fruit harvests, and range of attractions, including mountain stays, hiking trails, historical landmarks, and terraces, make it a must-visit spot all year round.
The new “View Wakan” café has quickly become a hit, drawing in weekend and holiday crowds with panoramic views and delicious refreshments. Visitors are particularly drawn to the fresh local fruits like apricots, peaches, figs, pomegranates, and grapes. Whether it’s a family outing or a weekend adventure, Wakan Village is fast becoming one of Oman’s top destinations.
### 2. UAE Labubu Collectables Sell Out in Minutes
Labubu figurines have captured the UAE’s imagination, selling out within hours via noon Minutes’ 15-minute delivery platform. Social media hype combined with limited supply has created a frenzy, with fans snapping up the figurines almost instantly. This craze highlights a shift in the UAE’s quick-commerce culture, showing how speed and scarcity now drive shopping trends across the region.
### 3. Al Khobar Goes Digital with Trees, Saudi Arabia
Al Khobar is blending sustainability with technology through its digital tree tagging project. Already, 10,000 trees have been tagged with QR codes, allowing people to learn about each tree’s type, age, care tips, and history via their smartphones. Phase one plans to cover 100,000 trees, followed by another 50,000 in phase two.
The initiative is available in Arabic and English and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative, and Al Khobar’s smart city development. Residents can stroll along the corniche, main roads, or residential areas while learning about local flora, making environmental awareness an interactive experience.
### 4. Egypt’s North Coast Welcomes Its First Skatepark
Adventure seekers have something to cheer about: Stoked, an Egyptian startup, is opening a major skatepark at Playa in Sahel, located on the 146th KM of the Alexandria-Matrouh road. Designed for all skill levels, the park features ramps, rails, and tubes. Beachside vibes and plenty of fun await skaters, with doors officially opening on August 15th. It’s set to become a hotspot for youth, tourists, and skating enthusiasts along Egypt’s North Coast.
### 5. Dubai Launches On-Demand Fuel and Car Wash
Parkin has partnered with CAFU to roll out Dubai’s first on-demand fuel and car wash service. Starting August 14, drivers can request fuel or car cleaning directly via an SMS link or the CAFU app, with services delivered within minutes. According to CEO Eng. Mohamed Abdulla Al Ali, this service saves trips, reduces traffic, and lowers emissions, while offering Parkin users a new level of convenience.
### 6. Disneyland Abu Dhabi Boosts Property Interest
Plans for Disneyland Abu Dhabi in North Yas near the Fahid Bridge are already affecting the real estate market. The announcement in May sparked higher interest in Yas Island homes, although buyers are not yet paying extra for park views. Overall, property prices on the island have risen by up to 20% over the past year, signalling strong investor confidence in the area.
### 7. Saudi Summer Deals for Tourists
“Saudi, Welcome to Arabia” is rolling out summer offers across the country through VisitSaudi.com. Tourists can enjoy discounts on stays, dining, experiences, and transport. Marriott properties are offering up to 15% off rooms and 20% off dining, while DRB Arabia packages include free activities like hiking, archery, and buggy rides.
The deals also cover top restaurants, nightlife events, car rentals, and rideshares, valid until 30 September 2025. From Riyadh and Diriyah to the Red Sea coastlines, visitors can explore Saudi Arabia affordably while enjoying unforgettable experiences.
### 8. Türkiye Remains a Hit with UK Travellers
Despite some travel warnings about rising costs, Turkiye continues to attract UK tourists. In 2024, 4.4 million Britons visited, making it the eighth most popular destination after Spain, France, and Greece. With sun-soaked beaches and rich cultural experiences, Turkiye remains a favourite, although some travellers recommend budgeting carefully to enjoy it fully.
### 9. Egypt Updates Residential Rental Rules
The Egyptian cabinet recently approved new regulations under Law No. 164 of 2025 to standardise residential rental assessments. Committees made up of technical, legal, and housing experts will classify areas as premium, medium, or economic, based on location, building quality, utilities, and rental values. The rules ensure daily operation (except holidays), detailed record-keeping, and strict conflict-of-interest policies, aiming to bring transparency and fairness to Egypt’s rental market.
### 10. Enjoy a Jamaican-Themed Sunday Brunch in Dubai
For those looking to unwind, a Jamaican-inspired Sunday brunch offers unlimited Jerk Chicken, Oxtail & Beans, and flaky Patties. Children under four eat free, while older kids enjoy discounted rates. Guests can sip curated drinks, play board games, and groove to a live DJ from 3 pm, making it a perfect casual weekend hangout for friends and families.
When: Every Sunday, 12:30–4:30 pm (DJ from 3 pm)
Prices: AED 215–399 for adults, AED 75 for kids 4–12, free for under 4s
Middle East updates continue to reshape lifestyles, tourism, and urban living. From eco-friendly city projects in Saudi Arabia to fast-moving e-commerce in the UAE and new recreational options in Egypt, the region offers endless opportunities to explore, invest, and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new attraction in Oman that is breaking visitor records?
Wakan Village in Wadi Mistal, Nakhal, is attracting more visitors than ever, with 27,428 travellers between January and July 2025, up from 24,093 last year. It offers a range of attractions including mountain stays, hiking trails, and historical landmarks.
What is causing the Labubu figurines to sell out so quickly in the UAE?
The Labubu figurines are selling out within hours due to social media hype and limited supply, highlighting a shift in the UAE’s quick-commerce culture where speed and scarcity drive shopping trends.
How is Al Khobar integrating technology with sustainability?
Al Khobar is implementing a digital tree tagging project where 10,000 trees have been tagged with QR codes, allowing people to learn about each tree’s type, age, care tips, and history via their smartphones. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.
What new recreational facility is opening in Egypt’s North Coast?
Stoked, an Egyptian startup, is opening a major skatepark at Playa in Sahel on the 146th KM of the Alexandria-Matrouh road. It features ramps, rails, and tubes and is set to become a hotspot for youth and tourists.
How are summer deals in Saudi Arabia benefiting tourists?
Saudi Arabia is offering summer deals through VisitSaudi.com, including discounts on stays, dining, experiences, and transport. Marriott properties are offering up to 15% off rooms and 20% off dining, while DRB Arabia packages include free activities like hiking, archery, and buggy rides.
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