A week in review: Here are the top news stories from Dubai this week
Here’s your must-read guide to the city’s biggest news stories…
In a fast paced city like Dubai, it can be hard to keep up with all the city’s happenings. Which is why we’re bringing you the week in review: a short, digestible overview of the weeks biggest news announcements, trending stories and top happenings.
From another brand announcing they’re eliminating single-use plastic, to the introduction of free SIM cards for tourists at Dubai International Airport, these are the news stories you need to know this week.
The fine for blocking emergency vehicles in UAE is being increased
From July 1, 2019, motorists who do not give away or move for emergency vehicles will face an increased fine of Dhs3,000 plus six black points and 30 days car impoundment. Previously, the fine was Dhs1,000 plus six black points however the UAE’s Ministry of Interior announced the increase on Monday June 17.
Emirates Airline is the next major brand to commit to reducing plastic waste
Emirates has released a statement committing to replacing plastic straws, plastic swizzle sticks and stirrers with eco-friendly alternatives by the end of 2019. The plastic bags used for in-flight purchases will also be replaced with paper versions. The result of these initiatives aims to remove an estimated 81.7 million single-use plastic items from landfill each year.
Tourists to be given free SIM cards on arrival at Dubai Airport
Dubai is set to become the first city in the world to offer tourists free SIM cards on arrival at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The du SIM cards will be given to all tourists over the age of 18, and will come loaded with complimentary minutes and data. The free SIM card provides three minutes of talk time and 20MB data, and will be valid for one month. The initiative has already been implemented, and SIM cards are available from Dubai airport’s immigration counter.
New Address hotel in Downtown to accept reservations from September 1
Downtown Dubai is set to welcome a brand new Address Hotel later this year as Address Sky View nears completion. The two-tower hotel and residence complex will begin accepting reservations to the hotel from September 1, according to the official website. The five star hotel can be found on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, and will offer prime Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai views when it opens later this year. The first tower will be dedicated solely to residences, and stands at 61 storeys high. It’s linked to the second tower (where you’ll find the hotel), which is slightly smaller at 56 storeys, by a stunning, three level Sky Bridge at floor 51.
British comedian Josh Widdicombe to perform at Dubai Opera
Get ready for a night full of laughs at Dubai Opera this September 13 as award-winning British comedian Josh Widdicombe takes to the stage. Known for his no-nonsense attitude and petty grumbles, Widdicombe will be hosted by Mock the Week‘s, Ed Gamble and joined by up-and-coming comedians, Lloyd Langford and 8 out of 10 Cats regular, Maisie Adam.
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