UAEThrive Daily News Roundup – April 9th, 2025

UAE News Today: Top Stories from April 9th Including Tax Updates, Eid Break Rumours & Saudi Visa Buzz

Welcome to your daily UAE news roundup for April 9, 2025. In today’s edition, we cover the latest on potential Eid holiday breaks, breaking Saudi visa rules, new tax regulations, soaring gold prices, business and policy updates, and trending lifestyle/tech buzz. Stay informed on all the headlines making waves across the Emirates and beyond!

Table of Contents

• Eid Holiday Buzz: Long Break Rumours
• Saudi Visa Updates Ahead of Hajj
• Tax Updates: New Corporate Rules
• Gold Prices Surge
• Business & Economy News
• Government Policy Alerts
• Lifestyle & Tech Trends
• FAQs

Eid Holiday Buzz: Long Break Rumours

UAE residents are abuzz with Eid holiday plans amid rumors of an extended break. Eid Al Adha 2025 is expected to begin on Friday, June 6, kicking off a four-day public holiday weekend0. However, chatter in offices and on social media suggests that by strategically taking additional leave days, one could turn those 4 days off into a whopping 15-day vacation1. Travel agencies are already reporting a spike in inquiries, as many locals hope to sandwich the official holidays with their annual leaves to maximise time off.

While these “Eid break hacks” are exciting, officials remind everyone that actual dates will be confirmed by the government closer to Eid. For now, it’s a waiting game – but that hasn’t stopped people from dreaming about a long summer escape during Eid. (For more UAE holiday news and tips, explore our UAE Thrive blog archives.)

Saudi Visa Updates Ahead of Hajj

The UAE’s large expat community is closely watching the Saudi visa buzz making headlines. In a move to control crowds ahead of Hajj, Saudi Arabia announced a temporary halt on issuing new short-term visas for citizens of 14 countries2. This includes major diaspora populations like India, Pakistan, Egypt, and more. Effective April 13, 2025, no new Umrah, tourist, business, or family visit visas will be granted to these nationalities until Hajj ends34. Those already holding valid visas can still enter Saudi Arabia until April 13 and must depart by April 295, or risk penalties.

Saudi authorities cite last year’s overcrowding and unauthorized Hajj attempts as reasons for the crackdown6. In addition, Saudi’s civil aviation authority has revised its e-stopover visa policy – now only travelers from a list of 18 “Group A” countries (including the US, UK, China, and Singapore) are eligible for transit visas7. The news has caused a stir among pilgrims and frequent travelers in the UAE, many of whom had plans to visit Saudi Arabia during the upcoming Eid and Hajj season. Travel operators are advising affected expatriates to adjust plans accordingly and ensure they meet all new requirements.

Tax Updates: New Corporate Rules

Big news on the tax front – the UAE has introduced fresh corporate tax regulations to provide more clarity for foreign investors. On April 8, the government issued Cabinet Decision No. 35 of 2025, which defines when a non-resident company or investor is considered to have a taxable presence (or “nexus”) in the UAE8. This essentially outlines conditions under which investments by overseas investors in UAE-based funds or trusts might trigger corporate tax. The move specifically clarifies treatment for investments in Qualifying Investment Funds (QIFs) and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)9, replacing an earlier 2023 decision to align with the latest corporate tax law reforms.

Tax experts note that this clarification is meant to reassure global investors. It shows the UAE’s commitment to competitive tax policies while complying with international standards for transparency1011. Businesses have been gearing up for the 9% federal corporate tax which kicked in this year, and such rules help define who is actually liable. The Federal Tax Authority also wrapped up a grace period (until end of March) for businesses to register for corporate tax, and non-compliant companies now face penalties. Overall, these updates signal that the UAE is balancing its new tax system with investor-friendly tweaks.

Gold Prices Surge Amid Uncertainty

12

Gold is glittering brighter than ever this week. In UAE markets, gold prices have shot up in response to global turmoil. As of April 9, Dubai gold rates hit approx. AED 370.5 per gram for 24-karat gold13 – about AED 10 higher than the day before. Local jewelers report brisk sales as residents rush to buy before prices climb further. The current rate is one of the highest on record, mirroring the international trend where gold is trading above $3,000 per ounce14.

Analysts attribute this surge to safe-haven demand. Escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and fears of a global economic slowdown have investors worldwide flocking to gold15. In fact, gold reached an all-time high of $3,167/oz just last week16 amid talk of tariff wars and recession risks. A weaker US dollar and expectations of interest rate cuts are further boosting gold’s appeal17. For UAE consumers, this means costlier jewellery in the short term. However, veteran gold traders note that many buyers see current prices as justified given gold’s performance – the metal is up over 15% in value this year alone.

Business & Economy News

UAE-India ties received a major boost as Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum (popularly known as Fazza), undertook his first official visit to India on April 8–918. In New Delhi, he met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations19. Talks focused on bolstering bilateral investment, trade, and economic development cooperation. India is one of the UAE’s biggest trading partners, so this high-profile visit underscores the importance of deepening economic ties. Observers noted the friendly rapport and the promise of new collaborations in sectors like technology, startups, and renewable energy as outcomes of the meetings.

Meanwhile, the UAE is already looking ahead to the next world expo. The government this week unveiled an ambitious vision for its national pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan20. The pavilion’s design and theme were revealed, showcasing a blend of innovative architecture and Emirati culture. Although details are under wraps, officials hinted it will highlight the UAE’s future-forward initiatives in sustainability and mobility. This reveal has generated excitement in business and cultural circles, as the UAE prepares to once again make its mark on a global stage after the success of Expo 2020 Dubai.

Government Policy Alerts

There have been a couple of important public policy updates in the UAE in the past 24 hours. Firstly, motorists in Abu Dhabi should take note: new speed limits have been announced on some major highways21. Authorities are calibrating speed regulations to improve road safety – so if you’re driving in the capital, watch for updated signage and stick to the limits to avoid fines. The changes come as part of broader efforts to reduce accidents.

Staying with safety, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority issued a stern warning to building owners and contractors. Tampering with fire safety systems or skipping maintenance could now incur penalties of up to AED 10,00022. This announcement came after inspectors found some alarm and sprinkler systems in disrepair. The reminder is clear: public safety infrastructure is not to be taken lightly. Residents can sleep a bit safer knowing enforcement is tightening against violators, especially after some recent fire incidents in the region. Officials are urging everyone – from high-rise landlords to villa owners – to ensure extinguishers, alarms, and sprinklers are functioning and certified.

Lifestyle & Tech Trends

On the lifestyle front, music lovers have reason to cheer. A massive new music festival is coming to the UAE, headlined by none other than Ed Sheeran. The four-time Grammy winner will take the stage in Abu Dhabi on April 26 as part of the inaugural OFFLIMITS Festival23. This one-day extravaganza at Etihad Park boasts a line-up including pop-rock band OneRepublic and British rockers Kaiser Chiefs24, among others, promising a day full of live music. Early-bird tickets sold out within hours, and general sales are moving fast – hardly surprising, as this is being touted as the UAE’s first mega music festival of its kind. Fans across the Emirates are marking their calendars for what is sure to be an epic concert experience under the stars.

In tech and sustainability news, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed a solar power project to green its operations. The RTA installed solar panels at 22 of its facilities and stations across the city25. These panels will generate clean electricity to run RTA offices and even some metro stations, significantly reducing the grid load and carbon footprint. This initiative not only slashes energy bills but also supports the UAE’s sustainability goals. Tech insiders are calling it a smart move – literally turning Dubai’s intense sunshine into savings. As the country pushes towards more renewable energy and smart city solutions, expect more public entities to follow suit.

FAQs

Q: When are the Eid Al Adha 2025 holidays in the UAE?

A: The Eid Al Adha public holidays are expected to run about four days, likely around June 5 to June 8, 2025 (Thursday through Sunday)26. The exact dates will be confirmed by UAE authorities closer to the occasion, based on moon sighting. There’s buzz that by taking additional leave around these dates, people could enjoy an extended break of up to two weeks.

Q: What are the new Saudi visa rules affecting UAE residents?

A: Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended issuing new visit, tourist, and Umrah visas for citizens of 14 countries (like India, Pakistan, Egypt, etc.) until Hajj season ends27. If you’re from one of these nations and have a valid Saudi visa, you must enter before April 13, 2025 and depart by April 29, 202528. These measures aim to prevent overcrowding during Hajj. Transit e-visas are also now restricted to travelers from 18 specified countries29.

Q: How is the UAE adjusting its corporate tax policy?

A: The UAE rolled out new corporate tax clarifications on April 8, 2025 to refine its recently introduced 9% corporate tax regime. Notably, Cabinet Decision No. 35 of 2025 outlines that foreign investors in qualifying investment funds and REITs without a significant UAE presence won’t be treated as taxable here3031. In short, many passive or portfolio investors remain tax-exempt. Businesses with a physical presence or generating significant UAE-sourced income will still need to comply with corporate tax filings.

Q: Why are gold prices rising and should I buy now?

A: Gold prices have been climbing due to global economic uncertainty and investors seeking safe havens. As of April 9, 2025, 24K gold is about AED 370 per gram in Dubai32, reflecting record international prices above $3,000/oz33. Prices are high, so buying now means paying a premium. Financial advisors suggest that if you’re buying jewelry for personal use, expect to pay more, but if you’re investing, be cautious – gold is near record highs, so any easing of global tensions could lead to a price correction.

Q: What big events are coming up in the UAE?

A: On the entertainment side, the OFFLIMITS music festival in Abu Dhabi on April 26 is the talk of the town, headlined by Ed Sheeran and other stars. Looking further ahead, later in the year the UAE will participate in Expo 2025 Osaka, showcasing a cutting-edge national pavilion34. Also, keep an eye on the UAE’s 2025 public initiatives – more renewable energy projects (like the RTA’s solar panels35) and tech-driven events are on the horizon as the nation continues to innovate and celebrate its culture.

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