Saudi Arabia's Finance Ministry projects a SR191 billion ($50.9 billion) deficit — 3.6% of GDP — in its 2027 pre-budget statement, forecasting a 12.8% growth rebound after a 3.6% contraction in 2026.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday it was 'too early to say' who was behind the foiled bid to crash flydubai flight FZ1073, adding that Israel may take part in the investigation into the mid-air cockpit attack.
Flydubai has suspended all flights to and from Israel after the FZ1073 cockpit attack forced an emergency landing in Tabuk. The injured Indian captain is stable in hospital while the attacker remains in Saudi custody.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman vowed "decisive" responses to any threat against Saudi Arabia in his annual Shura Council address, hailing the "indivisibility of Gulf security" and highlighting the new Makkah Defense Pact with Türkiye and Pakistan.
Israeli officials say the cockpit altercation that forced Flydubai flight FZ1073 to land in Tabuk is being probed as a possible terror attack, as the airline sent rescue aircraft and Saudi Arabia declined to admit an Israeli military plane.
Dubai's 1 Billion Followers Summit returns January 8–10, 2027 under the theme "Content for Good," with a $1 million AI Film Award backed by TikTok owner ByteDance and a new $100,000 award for positive storytelling.
A Saudi official told AFP "no official meetings, no talks, nothing whatsoever" took place with Israel's premier in Abu Dhabi, rejecting Israeli media claims of an expanded regional security meeting. Jordan also denied participation.
Flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia on September 30 after transmitting emergency signals in a hijack scare that Israeli officials blamed on an altercation between the two pilots. All 180 passengers are safe.
Etihad Rail launched passenger services between Dubai and Abu Dhabi on September 30, 2026, with the first train departing Al Yalayis Station at 6.14am and 10 daily journeys connecting the two emirates.
Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Decree No. 23 of 2026 restructuring the Board of Directors of the Investment Corporation of Dubai, with Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed named chairman and First Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed as vice chairman.