1. UAE and GCC Residents Can Travel Visa-Free to Armenia
Starting July 1, UAE and other GCC residents will benefit from visa-free access to Armenia. This policy allows entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, provided the traveller holds a valid residency permit with at least six months of validity. While UAE nationals have enjoyed visa-free travel to Armenia since 2017, this expansion now includes all GCC residents. As a result, travel across the region becomes significantly easier for many expatriates.
2. Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches Legalised to Support Quitting
Another key change is the UAE’s decision to legalise tobacco-free nicotine pouches starting July 29. Approved under Cabinet Resolution No. (2) of 2025, these products contain nicotine, sweeteners, plant fibres, and flavouring, but no smoke or vapour. Designed as a cleaner alternative to smoking or vaping, they are strictly regulated and permitted only if they meet specific government safety standards. Public health experts consider them a valuable aid for smokers attempting to quit.
3. Dubai Government Introduces Flexible Summer Workweeks
Dubai government employees will see the return of the ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative. Running from July 1 through September 12, the scheme encourages work-life balance by allowing flexible scheduling, although it maintains a five-day workweek. Each department can implement the arrangement according to its needs. After a successful 2024 pilot, this year’s rollout aims to boost employee well-being during peak summer months.
4. Emiratisation Compliance Checks Begin July 1
Private sector firms employing 50 or more people must comply with Emiratisation targets by July 1. From that date, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) will conduct inspections to ensure companies have increased Emirati representation by 1% in skilled roles for the first half of 2025. Failure to comply will result in monthly fines of Dh9,000 per unmet position. Moreover, MoHRE will verify that Emirati employees are registered with pension funds and receiving required monthly contributions.
5. New Health Law to Reshape Medical and License Exams
Another important update comes with Dubai’s revised Health Law, which will be implemented by the end of July. It mandates new procedures for work and residency medical exams, driving license approvals, and health card issuance. The law also sets standards to protect the mental and physical well-being of youth, offers improved elderly care, and raises awareness on harmful behaviours and substance abuse. Furthermore, it establishes responsibilities for public agencies in maintaining environmental and health safety across the emirate, including traveler screening protocols.
6. UAE School Summer Break Begins June 30
Lastly, the school summer holidays are set to begin across the UAE. According to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), most private schools in Dubai will start their break on Monday, June 30, with classes resuming on Monday, August 25. These dates are consistent with academic schedules followed throughout the country, offering families ample time to plan summer activities or travel.
