Trending Middle East

Episodes

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  Houthis strike Aden presidential palace, Iraq approves cabinet and Sharjah dismantles cyber crime network 16.10.2026 3m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Saudi-led coalition says it intercepted and destroyed a drone launched towards Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Meanwhile, the death toll from a Houthi attack on Yemen’s presidential palace in Aden rises to five, with 16 injured. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, declines to rule out using the “mother of all bombs” against Iran after the November midterm elections. Iraq’s parliament completes Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi’s cabinet, including the appointment of a deputy prime minister under US sanctions. In the UAE, Sharjah Police arrest 33 suspects from 12 countries accused of involvement in an international cyber crime and money-laundering network, seizing more than Dh200 million ($54.4 million) in cash. And figures show applications from students in the UAE seeking to study in the UK fell by 59 per cent between 2022 and 2025, amid tighter immigration rules and growing concerns over costs and safety. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  War cuts off 800,000 in Taiz, diesel shortages to extend into 2027 and Gaza committee signs development deal 15.10.2026 3m

  In today's episode of Trending Middle East, about 800,000 people in Yemen’s city of Taiz are largely cut off from food, fuel and medical supplies as fighting between the government troops and the Houthi rebels intensifies. As the Iran conflict drags on, the global diesel shortage is expected to continue well into 2027, the International Energy Agency has warned. In Lebanon, private suppliers now provide half of the country’s electricity, leaving households facing soaring bills. A special report by The National reveals how politically connected businesses are profiting from the country's power crisis. The Palestinian committee set up to administer Gaza has signed an agreement with Germany’s development agency, GIZ, to support reconstruction. However, Israel continues to block the committee’s entry into the strip. And the UAE has announced a $1 million prize for a global competition to develop agentic artificial intelligence solutions that improve everyday life. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Aramco building struck, missing sailors' families grieve and Dubai unveils underground transport plans 14.10.2026 2m

  Today on Trending Middle East, a building of Saudi Arabia's state oil company Aramco is attacked in Dharan, as the Houthi rebels in Yemen escalate their missile campaign against the kingdom. The Energy Ministry says the strike cause a fire but there were no casualties. Families of two Indian sailors who have been missing since a drone hit an oil tanker off Oman's coast tell The National they are "sick with grief" as they wait for news. A group of senators has urged US President Donald Trump to cancel a Russian diesel deal, warning that it could help Iran and endanger American troops in the Middle East. Meanwhile Dubai has unveiled plans for a new underground transport network. Research from the World Economic Forum suggests that artificial intelligence could help to create more than $1 trillion in wealth for countries in the Middle East and North Africa by 2030. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Riyadh extends airport closure, UK imposes sanctions on Iranians and IMF cuts Gulf growth forecasts 13.10.2026 3m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Yemen’s Houthi rebels launch further attacks against Saudi Arabia as authorities extend the closure of Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport until October 17. The attacks have disrupted flights across the region, with Etihad Airways cancelling services between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh until October 19. The UK imposes sanctions on two Iranian citizens accused of involvement in plots to carry out attacks in the country, while Tehran denies involvement. Meanwhile, Pakistan detains allies of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan after imposing emergency rule and suspending the provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The International Monetary Fund sharply downgrades its Gulf economic forecasts because of the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz, projecting a 3.9 per cent contraction in the UAE economy this year. In the UAE, the Cabinet approves a Dh292.5 billion ($$79.64 billion) federal budget for 2027 to 2029, an increase of 28.3 per cent compared with the previous three-year period. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Riyadh airport attacked again and Trump announces Ukraine-Russia 'energy ceasefire' 12.10.2026 2m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, one person is killed and 11 injured in another attack on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport – a day after 13 were killed and more than 300 injured in a strike claimed by the Houthi rebels. The airport is to remain closed for another 24 hours as Saudi Arabia responds to further threats. US President Donald Trump announces an immediate ceasefire on attacks against energy infrastructure in Russia and Ukraine, although Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he is unaware of any agreement. Meanwhile, at least 139 migrants have died and more than 80 remain missing after a boat capsizes off Djibouti while heading towards Yemen. Australian engineer and Dubai resident Robert Pether leaves Iraq after years of detention and travel restrictions linked to a contract dispute, allowing him to reunite with his family. And Abu Dhabi announces plans to upgrade 13km of roads in Mussaffah to reduce congestion and improve connections with surrounding communities. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Saudi Arabia to 'punish' Houthis, Trump rules out Iran attack and Musk's Boring Company signs Abu Dhabi deal 09.10.2026 2m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen vows to “punish” the Houthi rebels after attacks on airports in the kingdom killed three people and injured 36. The UAE has condemned the strikes and emphasised its full solidarity with Saudi Arabia. Syria denies reports that Riyadh asked Damascus to send troops to support the kingdom against the Houthis. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump says the US will not launch attacks on Iran before the November midterm elections. He adds that Washington is engaged in “productive discussions” with Tehran. In the UAE, Elon Musk’s Boring Company signs an agreement to explore underground transport and utility tunnels in Abu Dhabi. And the Emirates is to decriminalise attempted suicide under amendments to the country’s Crimes and Penalties Law. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Riyadh flights pause after Houthi attacks, US claims Hormuz is open and UAE calls for rain prayers 08.10.2026 2m

  In today's episode of Trending Middle East, flights from Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport were disrupted this morning after the Houthis claimed a ballistic missile strike there. It comes after Saudi authorities confirmed that three people were killed in earlier attacks on Riyadh and Abha airports. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Iran has lost control of the Strait of Hormuz, claiming oil exports from the Gulf have returned to near prewar levels. Iran has disputed the claim. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has sparked backlash for handing out pins depicting a hangman’s noose to high school pupils in the city of Herzliya. The move is part of his campaign to promote the use of the death penalty against Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks. Abu Dhabi is rolling out a major training programme to teach 20,000 government employees AI skills. The initiative is part of the emirate's ambition to become the world’s first AI-powered government by 2027. And President Sheikh Mohamed has called for special rain prayers, known as Salaat Al Istisqaa, be held at mosques across the UAE this Friday. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Houthis claim attacks, Qatar and Turkey in Olympics bid race, and UAE brand to export camel milk abroad 07.10.2026 3m

  In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the Houthis have claimed missile and drone attacks on airports and military sites in Saudi Arabia and Yemen this morning. The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted ballistic missiles near Riyadh and Khamis Mushait, but authorities have not confirmed the claims about the airports. Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara has met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh during an official visit to the kingdom, whether the two leaders discussed bilateral ties and the latest developments in the region. UAE businesses are raising their prices at the fastest rate in more than 15 years, pointing to higher inflation across the country. Qatar and Turkey are among seven countries bidding to host the 2036 Summer Olympics. And UAE food producer Al Ain Farms is taking its camel milk brand global, with plans to turn it into a superfood in China and Europe. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Yemeni forces secure Bab Al Mandeb, UAE-Jordan launch $2.3bn railway and Eagle Hills signs Syria projects 06.10.2026 2m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Yemeni government forces secure control of the Bab Al Mandeb strait and the strategic port city of Mokha as their offensive against the Houthis expands. The Saudi-led coalition is providing air support, while Yemeni forces have also begun what they call a “strategic offensive” on Sanaa. Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed and Jordan’s King Abdullah attend the ground-breaking of a $2.3 billion railway linking the Port of Aqaba with major mining centres. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi-based Eagle Hills signs an agreement for two major developments in Syria that are expected to create more than 40,000 jobs. Dubai launches a new accelerator to expand the use of agentic AI across government services, bringing together 33 government entities in its first phase. And schools in Dubai remind parents not to photograph or film other children or staff without their consent. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Yemen begins offensive against Houthis, Egypt seeks Nile dam solution and UAE launches commercial satellite 05.10.2026 2m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Yemen’s internationally recognised government announces the start of military operations to retake territory held by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, as fighting intensifies around Taiz. Egypt says it remains committed to a diplomatic and political solution to its dispute with Ethiopia over its Nile dam, despite a new escalation in tensions between the countries. Meanwhile, the Pentagon says all US bombers stationed at RAF Fairford in England have returned to America. In the UAE, the first commercial satellite built entirely in the country has been launched into orbit, marking the start of a planned constellation of 10 AI-powered satellites. The UAE has also secured another Asian Games medal, as Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi claimed individual silver in the equestrian competition. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Third US carrier heads to Middle East, UAE investigates flydubai incident, and Dubai sets AI rules for schools 02.10.2026 2m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the US is sending a third aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East as President Donald Trump weighs further military action against Iran. The USS Theodore Roosevelt and its strike group are heading to the region, where two other US aircraft carriers are already deployed. The UAE Attorney General has ordered an investigation into the mid-flight altercation aboard a flydubai aircraft that was forced to divert to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Iraq says it is confident it will meet a June 2027 deadline to bring weapons held by armed groups under state control. Abu Dhabi’s new Mid-Island Parkway is expected to cut the journey time from Saadiyat Island to Reem Island and Abu Dhabi’s main island from 25 minutes to 10 minutes. And Dubai is preparing new guidelines for the use of AI in schools, which are expected to come into effect next year. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
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  Flydubai pilot praised for averting disaster, Iraq's controversial PMF law, and UAE telecom paves way for 6G 01.10.2026 2m

  Today on Trending Middle East, Indian flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar has been hailed as a hero for helping avert a potential disaster during a security incident on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. In Iraq, the government has approved a controversial bill that could further establish the Popular Mobilisation Forces as a permanent national security institution. It comes as US forces formally have formally ended their military mission in the country. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham says there are “strong indications” that Iran was involved in an incident near RAF Fairford over the weekend, but that investigations are ongoing. Syrian security forces say they have arrested three members of a Hezbollah-linked cell and dismantled rocket launchers in the south of the country. And UAE telecom e& has launched a new mobile network that it says will help accelerate the country’s transition towards 6G technology. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  US withdraws troops from Iraq, UAE condemns Al Aqsa breach and Morocco appoints first female PM 30.09.2026 2m

  In today's episode of Trending Middle East, the US is withdrawing its last troops from Iraq, officially ending its anti-ISIS mission, Operation Inherent Resolve, after 12 years. Baghdad now plans to shift towards bilateral security co-operation with Washington. The UAE strongly condemns the storming of Al Aqsa Mosque compound by Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, accompanied by hundreds of settlers. In Morocco, Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri is set to become the country's first female prime minister. Dubai’s Etihad Rail passenger service completes its historic first journey to Abu Dhabi. The inaugural train left Al Yalayis Station on Wednesday morning. And an Iranian court rejects an appeal by a singer against a sentence of 74 lashes and a ban on work and travel. Parastoo Ahmadi was convicted over an online concert in which she performed without a headscarf and sang solo. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  UK releases terror suspects on bail, UAE calls for diplomacy at UN and President takes Etihad train to Dubai 29.09.2026 3m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, five people arrested on suspicion of a terrorism plot near the UK's Fairford airbase are released on bail, after experts find no traces of explosives. Authorities say the suspects remain under investigation, while Iran denies any involvement. Israel condemns the Netherlands' ban on imports of goods from Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, while the US repeats that it opposes any Israeli annexation of the occupied West Bank. The UAE uses its UN General Assembly address to call for de-escalation and diplomacy, urging countries to “build rather than destroy”. President Sheikh Mohamed and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, attend the launch of Etihad Rail’s new station in Dubai. The President travelled on the Etihad train from Abu Dhabi before the service’s official launch. And Egypt football coach Hossam Hassan walks back several comments that sparked criticism after the Pharaohs’ goalless draw with Angola, amid Mohamed Salah’s departure from the national team camp. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  US-Iran talks set for this week, five held near UK's Fairford airbase and Al Dhaid to join Etihad Rail network 28.09.2026 3m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump expects American negotiators to hold further talks with Iran this week, with regional sources saying another round of indirect dialogue could take place as early as Monday. British police arrest five men near RAF Fairford after explosives are discovered, with a possible Iranian link among the lines of inquiry. Meanwhile, schools in Riyadh tell parents that classes will move online for the rest of the week, after Saudi forces intercepted Houthi drones heading towards the capital. The UAE calls for stronger international judicial co-operation, with Justice Minister Abdullah Al Nuaimi highlighting the extradition to Ireland of alleged crime boss Daniel Kinahan. And Sharjah’s Al Dhaid is set to join the Etihad Rail passenger network on Wednesday, connecting the historic oasis town to the national network. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  Iran hardens Hormuz position, Trump hosts Xi, and celebrities detained at pro-Palestine protest 25.09.2026 3m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran hardens its position on the Strait of Hormuz, insisting Washington must meet its conditions before formal negotiations can resume. Diplomacy at the UN General Assembly has yet to produce a breakthrough, while about 80 countries have backed a call for the urgent reopening of the waterway. Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey arrange an urgent meeting of their military chiefs to discuss support for the kingdom, as Saudi forces intercept six ballistic missiles launched by the Houthi rebels. US President Donald Trump welcomes Chinese President Xi Jinping to the White House for a state visit, with technology, trade, Taiwan and the Iran war among the key issues. The UAE suspends all flights operated by Iranian airlines to and from the country until further notice. And Hacks star Hannah Einbinder and Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon are detained during a pro-Palestine protest outside the UN as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the General Assembly. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
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  Iran proposes ceasefire road map, $2.45 billion pledged for Gaza, and Syria tourism doubles 24.09.2026 2m

  Today on Trending Middle East, Iran has presented the US with a proposed road map to end the war. Sources told The National that it includes a region-wide ceasefire of up to 60 days, the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to the US blockade of Iran. The US-backed Board of Peace has proposed a six-month, $2.45 billion plan to begin rebuilding Gaza and restoring basic services. The UAE Central Bank has barred Bank Melli Iran from carrying out financial transactions between its branches in the Emirates and in Iran, after investigations found the lender failed to comply with the UAE's anti-money laundering regulations. In Syria, visitor numbers more than doubled in the first half of this year compared with the same period in 2025, as tourism picks up. And on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, the Emirates Foundation has partnered with the Responsible AI Future Foundation to use artificial intelligence for social good in the UAE and around the world. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  US-Iran talks resume, Syrian President considers election and digital dirham symbol adopted 23.09.2026 2m

  Today on Trending Middle East, both Iran and the US have confirmed they held talks through mediators during the UN General Assembly. This marks the first known negotiation between both sides since an interim agreement broke down in July. Also on the sidelines of the event, Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara told The National he may run in a future election if he is needed, but that he was focused on governing during the transitional period for now. The Houthis are battling Yemeni pro-government forces for control of the strategic Kahboub mountain range in the country’s south-west. In the UAE, President Sheikh Mohamed and the Rulers and Crown Princes of the Emirates gathered in Dubai to offer condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, following the death of his brother, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid. Sheikh Ahmed was laid to rest on Tuesday. The dirham symbol has officially been added to Unicode, the leading organisation that standardises emojis and digital characters. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
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  World leaders gather at UNGA, UK backs Saudi defence, and UN ready for Sudan chemical weapons probe 22.09.2026 3m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, world leaders are arriving in New York for the UN General Assembly, with some of the planet's most pressing issues set to dominate discussions. G7 foreign ministers call on Iran to end its support for the Houthis, while Britain prepares to provide Saudi Arabia with defensive air-to-air refuelling amid Houthi attacks. Major US television networks suspend pooled coverage of President Donald Trump after the White House bars CNN from carrying out its scheduled duties. Meanwhile, the UN says it is ready to investigate the Sudanese Armed Forces’ alleged chemical weapons programme if it receives a mandate. Unifil says Israeli forces are operating from nearly 30 military positions across southern Lebanon, including eight fortified bases. And funeral prayers for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid will be held in Dubai as the emirate continues a 10-day mourning period. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
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  Trump plans high-level Arab talks at UNGA, Egypt seeks end to Iran war, and Dubai cuts road journey times 21.09.2026 2m

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump will meet Gulf and other Arab officials in New York during UN General Assembly Week, with Iran, its proxies and the future of the US-Iran conflict expected to be key issues. Dr Anwar Gargash, adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, also calls for a “new mindset” in relations with Iran, saying diplomacy is the way forward. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi met CIA director John Ratcliffe, while sources say Cairo is passing messages between the parties and holding separate talks with them. Ed Sheeran addresses the conflict in Gaza after controversy surrounding his North American tour and Macklemore’s removal from the line-up. And Dubai has completed a major expansion of Oud Metha Road and Al Asayel Street aimed at cutting the average journey time from 20 minutes to five minutes. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans