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UAE News Today 22nd November 2025: Travel, Business, Festivals, and Youth Highlights

A dusk view of Downtown Dubai with Burj Khalifa and city lights glowing above busy shopping areas.

From early morning commutes to late-night festivals, UAE news today 22nd November 2025 touches almost every part of daily life. Roads and public transport are adjusting for major events, airlines are signing huge deals, and city authorities are updating rules that affect how goods move and how buildings get approved. At the same time, families are planning for Dubai Shopping Festival, Eid Al Etihad, and food festivals, while young people are building apps, making films, and winning heritage awards.

Listen to our audio summary above for key insights from UAE News Today — Top Stories & Updates | 22 November 2025.

This daily roundup brings together the most useful updates for residents and businesses across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, and the wider Emirates. You will find practical news you can act on now, such as Dubai Run metro timings, the new Abu Dhabi truck routes, and how to plan for busy shopping days. You will also see where the big money is going in aviation and construction, and where to find cultural events, student projects, and youth opportunities that are shaping the next generation.

The stories are drawn from official UAE media offices and trusted outlets like Khaleej Times, Gulf News, Sharjah24, Gulf Today, and the Dubai Media Office, and brought together in one clear guide for today.

Stay informed with the stories shaping the Emirates—and join the conversation.

Top UAE travel and traffic updates residents need to know today

Transport changes are at the heart of UAE news today 22nd November 2025 because they touch routines, deliveries, and opening times. A small shift in metro hours or a new truck route can mean the difference between a smooth morning and an hour lost in traffic.

This week, Dubai is preparing for tens of thousands of runners on Sheikh Zayed Road, while Abu Dhabi is about to reroute heavy vehicles away from key corridors. Here is what you need to know and how to adjust plans in a practical way.

Dubai Run 2025: extended Metro timings and road closures around Sheikh Zayed Road

On Sunday 23 November, Dubai will turn Sheikh Zayed Road into a giant running track for Dubai Run 2025. To move crowds safely and keep cars off the road, RTA is extending Dubai Metro operating hours from 3 am to midnight for that day.

According to a detailed Khaleej Times update on Dubai Run metro timings, trains on the Red Line will support access to the Dubai World Trade Centre area from the very early hours. At the same time, key sections of Sheikh Zayed Road will be closed from 3 am to 10 am.

What this means in practice:

  • Runners and spectators can reach the start area without needing cars.
  • Regular commuters who use Sheikh Zayed Road in the morning will need a backup plan.
  • Offices along the route may see slower arrival times for staff and deliveries.

Simple steps that help:

  • Travel earlier than usual. If you are running, aim to arrive well before your start time and use nearby metro stations such as World Trade Centre or Emirates Towers.
  • Top up your nol card in advance. Avoid long queues at ticket machines by loading balance the day before.
  • Allow extra time if you work near the route. If your office sits around Sheikh Zayed Road or the Trade Centre area, factor in possible delays and discuss flexible arrival times with your team.
  • Use alternative routes. Drivers who usually rely on Sheikh Zayed Road should use Al Khail Road, Mohammed bin Zayed Road, or parallel internal roads while the closure is in place.

For cafés, gyms, and retail outlets near the course, this can be one of the busiest Sunday mornings of the year. More people on foot means a spike in footfall if you plan opening hours and staffing around the event. As Dubai rolls into more large-scale city events over winter, including shopping and cultural festivals later in this article, keep an eye on similar traffic advisories that may affect your business rhythm.

Abu Dhabi truck ban from December: what logistics and drivers must change now

From 1 December 2025, Abu Dhabi will introduce a new rule that bans trucks from two major routes, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Road (E11) and Al Raha Beach Road (E10). Heavy vehicles will instead use Al Faya–Saih Shuaib Road (E75) and Al Hafar (Al Adla).

The change, reported in a Khaleej Times piece on the Abu Dhabi truck ban, builds on existing peak-time restrictions for heavy vehicles. The goals are clear: free up space on key commuter roads, reduce the risk of serious accidents, and protect infrastructure along busy coastal and residential areas.

If you run a logistics, construction, or supply chain business, treat this as a firm deadline, not a soft guideline.

Action points for companies:

  • Update route planning software to shift truck routes to E75 and Al Hafar.
  • Review promised delivery windows that used the old corridors and adjust where needed.
  • Inform drivers, dispatchers, and customers in writing, so there are no surprises on 1 December.
  • Factor in extra travel distance or time where relevant and update quotes or service level agreements.

For individual truck drivers, the priority is to know the new routes and timings well before they take effect. Spend time studying the alternative roads, rest areas, and fuel stops. If you drive at night or in low light, pay extra attention to new signage.

Residents and daily commuters on E10 and E11 should slowly feel the benefit in the form of smoother flow and fewer heavy vehicles in residential or coastal stretches. Parents driving children to schools in these areas may notice a calmer traffic mix during busy drop-off and pick-up windows.

Big business and aviation moves shaping the UAE economy

Beyond traffic and events, UAE news today 22nd November 2025 carries strong signals about the country’s economic direction. Large aviation orders, advances in on-board tech, and regulatory changes in construction all feed into long-term growth. For job seekers, SMEs, and investors, these headlines point to where opportunity is likely to grow.

Two stories stand out: Emirates’ strategic investments announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025, and Abu Dhabi’s overhaul of how it classifies and licenses construction and engineering firms.

Emirates caps off Dubai Airshow with major aircraft orders and AI upgrades

Emirates has closed Dubai Airshow 2025 on a high note, with new aircraft orders and tech partnerships that signal confidence in future travel demand. The airline confirmed orders worth US$41.4 billion, along with further investment in cabin upgrades, manufacturing, and maintenance facilities in Dubai.

The Dubai Media Office highlighted these moves in its report, “Emirates caps off Dubai Airshow with strategic investments”. Key points include:

  • Expansion of the fleet with new wide-body aircraft to support more routes and frequencies.
  • Rollout of Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi, which should make in-flight connectivity closer to what passengers expect at home or in the office.
  • Use of AI tools, including ChatGPT Enterprise, to support operations, customer service, and internal workflows.
  • Growth in local manufacturing and MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) capacity in Dubai.

For passengers, this translates into more flight options, better on-board comfort, and stronger Wi-Fi for work or entertainment. For residents and businesses, the story is bigger. Large fleet orders need pilots, engineers, cabin crew, data specialists, and support staff. AI and connectivity projects require skilled developers, cybersecurity professionals, and product teams.

SMEs in aerospace, logistics, design, and digital services can position themselves as suppliers or partners. If you run a smaller company in these sectors, this is a good time to tighten your pitch, update your online presence, and make sure your capabilities are visible to larger players and procurement teams.

All of this helps keep Dubai and the wider UAE at the centre of global travel flows, which supports tourism, trade, and the broader service economy.

Abu Dhabi’s construction sector overhaul: what it means for projects and property

Abu Dhabi is changing the rules for who can bid on construction and engineering projects, and how quickly they can get approved. The Department of Municipalities and Transport has simplified classification rules, cut out double licensing in some cases, lowered minimum project values, and allowed expertise to transfer from branches in other emirates and GCC states.

Coverage in Gulf News explains that this regulatory overhaul is designed to boost competitiveness and attract more investment into Abu Dhabi’s construction and property market. In simple terms, it reduces duplicated paperwork and makes it easier for serious players to enter or expand.

For Emirati-owned firms, the new framework can open doors to contracts that previously felt out of reach due to high thresholds or complex procedures. For international groups with branches in Dubai, Sharjah, or the wider GCC, the ability to transfer proven experience directly into Abu Dhabi should shorten the path to new projects.

What does this mean for residents?

  • Faster progress on housing, roads, and public facilities over time.
  • A wider mix of developers and contractors in the market, which can support quality and innovation.

For contractors, consultants, and developers, the message is simple: read the updated rules, check how your classification might change, and consider which new types of projects now make sense for your business. This is also a good moment to refresh company profiles and case studies so potential partners and clients can judge your experience quickly.

Festivals, shopping, and heritage: where to experience UAE culture this week

Vibrant fireworks over Dubai's skyline during a winter festival season
Photo by tom analogicus

As temperatures drop, the UAE is shifting into a full festive season. Dubai Shopping Festival 2025 is about to start, national celebrations under the Eid Al Etihad 2025 “United” theme are lining up, and Abu Dhabi is hosting a Michelin Guide Food Festival that brings fine dining to a wider audience.

Alongside these headline events, there are heritage awards, public art on the Metro, film showcases in Sharjah, and youth photography exhibitions that offer rich options for families and students every weekend.

Dubai Shopping Festival 2025: dates, deals, and what residents should plan for

Dubai Shopping Festival 2025 will run from 5 December to 11 January, turning the city into a 38‑day playground of shopping, concerts, drone shows, fireworks, auto displays, and family attractions. A detailed Gulf News guide to DSF 2025 notes:

  • Discounts of up to 75 percent across more than 1,000 brands and 3,500 stores.
  • Large prize draws, flash sales, and special “Deal of the Day” style campaigns.
  • Experiences such as The Big Bounce, Hatta adventures, and themed nights across key districts.

For residents, this is the time to plan smart. A few simple moves can protect your budget while still enjoying the buzz:

  • Set a clear spending plan before visiting the malls or outlet villages.
  • Shortlist the concerts or family activities that matter most, then book early.
  • Follow official DSF channels for announcements about flash sales so you do not miss high‑value offers.
  • Remember that malls, popular beaches, and key roads will be busier, especially around evenings and weekends.

For retailers, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, DSF can make or break winter targets. Think about extended opening hours, staff scheduling, and cross‑promotions with nearby businesses. The festival also connects neatly with UAE National Day and Eid Al Etihad activities, which means many visitors will plan short breaks that blend shopping, culture, and dining.

Eid Al Etihad 2025: public celebrations and family-friendly activities across all emirates

Eid Al Etihad 2025, themed “United”, will bring coordinated celebrations across all seven emirates. A Gulf News overview of Eid Al Etihad events outlines a national programme that includes:

  • A main official ceremony, with screenings in cinemas and public venues.
  • An official playlist and guides to help families and communities take part.
  • Wide coverage on TV, YouTube, and the event website, so people can join wherever they are.

For families, the key is to decide:

  • Which emirate you want to visit for the main day.
  • Whether you prefer large public screenings or smaller local gatherings.
  • How to combine celebrations with nearby shopping or dining offers.

For malls, F&B outlets, and tourism operators, this period brings high footfall and strong demand for themed experiences. A “United” menu, extended holiday hours, or limited‑time bundles can help connect your brand with the mood of the country.

This story sits at the centre of UAE news today 22nd November 2025 because it shapes public holiday patterns, domestic tourism, and activity levels in many sectors at once.

Abu Dhabi Michelin Guide Food Festival: must-try experiences for food lovers

Abu Dhabi is hosting a Michelin Guide Food Festival at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, running through to 23 November. A feature in Gulf News on the Michelin food festival experience describes tasting‑style menus prepared by top restaurants, chef appearances, and playful touches such as plantable cutlery and sensory food installations.

For residents and visitors, this is a rare chance to try dishes from Michelin‑recognised chefs at more accessible price points, without needing a full fine‑dining booking. It is especially appealing for:

  • Couples looking for a special night without a full tasting menu bill.
  • Families with older children who enjoy food exploration.
  • Foodies who want to sample several concepts in one visit.

Events like this also help local restaurants and F&B brands. A busy festival can bring new customers who may later book full meals, recommend venues to friends, or post on social media, which boosts visibility.

If you are travelling from Dubai or another emirate, check session timings, ticket options, and parking or valet arrangements in advance. Combining the festival with a walk along the Corniche or a visit to nearby cultural sites can turn it into a full day out.

Alongside these headline events, public art and heritage projects add extra flavour to daily life. The Brand Dubai and RTA visual tribute on the Metro Red Line wraps carriages with images of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, and verses from “The People and the Leader”, adding a patriotic backdrop to the commute during National Month. The Erth Dubai Award, which we cover later, invites people to share their family stories and cultural memories, giving depth to the festive visuals.

Youth, education, and heritage: how the next generation is shaping the UAE

UAE news today 22nd November 2025 is not only about aircraft orders and shopping festivals. It also highlights a steady stream of stories about students, young professionals, and creatives who are turning ideas into careers, and families who are preserving their heritage.

Across Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and beyond, internships, graduations, film labs, and museum projects show how the next generation is being prepared to lead in health, tech, media, and culture.

From classrooms to careers: student innovation, internships, and healthcare graduates

In Dubai, 19‑year‑old student Veda Fernandes used an internship at Aster Hospital as a springboard to build VAXTrack, a vaccination‑tracking app that reminds parents about children’s immunisation dates. As covered in a Khaleej Times profile of the VAXTrack app, she drew on what she saw in clinics to solve a real problem: missed or delayed appointments.

Her story is a simple but strong lesson for teens and parents:

  • Internships help students see real‑world gaps and test career interests.
  • Projects born from these experiences can strengthen university applications.
  • Youth innovation is not limited to coding; it can be tied to healthcare, education, or logistics.

In Ajman, Gulf Medical University has just graduated 630 students across medicine and allied health fields, in a ceremony attended by Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, as reported by Gulf Today. These graduates will feed into hospitals, clinics, labs, and public health roles across the UAE.

For families, especially those who see medicine as a trusted path, this shows there is steady demand for well‑trained healthcare staff. For the system as a whole, it supports the push for strong local talent instead of relying purely on overseas recruitment.

Practical tips for parents and teens:

  • Look out for structured internships, hospital volunteering, or job‑shadowing schemes.
  • Encourage students to link school projects to real-world issues they care about.
  • When choosing degrees, focus on programmes that offer clinical exposure, labs, or industry partnerships.

The thread that connects these stories is clear: the earlier young people gain real‑world experience, the more confident and focused they become when stepping into careers.

Celebrating stories and creativity: heritage awards, public art, film, and photography

Heritage and creativity feature strongly in UAE news today 22nd November 2025, with new awards, public art campaigns, and youth‑driven projects across Dubai and Sharjah.

One of the headline announcements is the Erth Dubai Award, launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed. The award, covered in the Dubai Media Office announcement on the Erth Dubai Award, carries a prize pool of more than AED 5 million. It invites citizens and residents to submit stories and projects that document Dubai’s cultural and social heritage, from family histories to social media storytelling and oral accounts, with a grand prize of AED 1 million.

For families and content creators, this is an invitation to:

  • Record grandparents’ life stories before they fade.
  • Turn personal archives, photos, and memories into structured projects.
  • Share these stories with a wider audience and possibly gain recognition.

On the daily commute, the Brand Dubai and RTA visual tribute on the Metro Red Line brings history into public space, with images of founding leaders and poetic verses wrapping trains. It turns ordinary journeys into a moving gallery, and deepens national pride, especially around National Day and Eid Al Etihad.

In Sharjah, the arts and museum sector is busy building youth confidence:

  • Sharjah Art Foundation’s “First Takes” gives young filmmakers from universities like AUS, NYU Abu Dhabi, University of Sharjah, and Zayed University a platform to screen short films and join discussions, as highlighted by Sharjah24.
  • The “I am at Sharjah Museums” student photography exhibition, reported by Gulf News, showcases winning photos from visits to 16 museums, and runs until April 2026.

These initiatives help students learn storytelling, visual skills, and teamwork, while also building a sense of ownership over local culture.

Parents, teachers, and youth can get involved by:

  • Visiting exhibitions and film screenings as a family or school group.
  • Encouraging students to submit work to open calls, even if they are just starting out.
  • Using museum trips as inspiration for school projects or creative portfolios.

All of these pieces fit together to show a country that cares about its stories as much as its skyscrapers.

Conclusion: turning today’s UAE news into action

UAE news today 22nd November 2025 paints a joined‑up picture: smoother and safer travel through Dubai Run metro adjustments and the Abu Dhabi truck ban, strong economic confidence in Emirates’ aviation deals and Abu Dhabi’s construction reforms, a rich festive calendar with DSF 2025, Eid Al Etihad, and the Michelin Food Festival, and clear backing for youth, education, and heritage.

You can turn these headlines into action right away. Adjust your commute for Dubai Run or new truck rules, plan winter outings and shopping around key dates, and pick at least one cultural or food event to enjoy with family or visiting friends. If you are a parent, student, or educator, explore internships, university partnerships, and creative programmes that help young people step into their next chapter.

For businesses, each story is a signal. There are chances to align offers with festivals, respond to regulatory changes, and connect with the fast‑growing travel and food sectors. Staying close to official updates is not just about staying informed, it is about spotting the right moment to grow, partner, or innovate.

Use today’s news as a guide, not just a summary, and share key updates with the people around you so more of us can benefit from the opportunities taking shape in the Emirates.

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A dusk view of Downtown Dubai with Burj Khalifa and city lights glowing above busy shopping areas.

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