Gulf Summits: Strengthening Regional Cooperation over Four Decades 

A poster of Gulf leaders is seen ahead of the summit in Bahrain. (BNA)
A poster of Gulf leaders is seen ahead of the summit in Bahrain. (BNA)
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Gulf Summits: Strengthening Regional Cooperation over Four Decades 

A poster of Gulf leaders is seen ahead of the summit in Bahrain. (BNA)
A poster of Gulf leaders is seen ahead of the summit in Bahrain. (BNA)

Over four decades, Gulf Summits have evolved from periodic meetings of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) leaders into key milestones that strengthen fraternal ties and promote joint action based on shared goals. This cooperation is rooted in a legacy of social, historical, and cultural cohesion that predates the council's establishment, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday.

The unity reflected in these summits is not merely a response to circumstances; it arises from political awareness and a shared belief that regional stability and prosperity can only be achieved through solidarity and integrated policies.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, is participating in the 46th Session of the GCC Supreme Council on Wednesday as part of the Kingdom's efforts to deepen joint Gulf action, aligned with the vision approved by GCC leaders in 2015.

The vision established a framework for integration, particularly in defense, security, and the economy, reorganizing cooperation tracks and improving coordination among member states.

As the 46th session convenes in Bahrain, GCC states draw on a strong record of achievements and experiences that showcase their resilience in adapting to challenges. This summit is an opportunity to consolidate past accomplishments and set priorities for the future, focusing on economic integration, regional security, energy, climate, and international partnerships to meet the aspirations of Gulf peoples for prosperity and stability.

The evolution of Gulf Summits reflects the steadfast political will of GCC leaders. Unity and forward thinking are pivotal to establishing a cohesive regional system capable of continual development and adaptation to global changes. Each summit renews this commitment, stressing that the Gulf Cooperation Council will endure as a vital model of unity in the Arab region and will continue to advocate for the security, development, and prosperity of Gulf peoples.



Saudi Arabia Downs Drones Fired at Eastern Region, al-Kharj

Spokesperson of the Saudi Ministry of Defense Major General Turki Al-Malki. (SPA)
Spokesperson of the Saudi Ministry of Defense Major General Turki Al-Malki. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Downs Drones Fired at Eastern Region, al-Kharj

Spokesperson of the Saudi Ministry of Defense Major General Turki Al-Malki. (SPA)
Spokesperson of the Saudi Ministry of Defense Major General Turki Al-Malki. (SPA)

Spokesperson of the Saudi Ministry of Defense Major General Turki Al-Malki said on Monday that 15 drones were intercepted and destroyed in the Eastern Region.

Thirteen drones were downed in the al‑Kharj governorate, he added.


Saudi FM Discusses Regional Developments with Counterparts from Bahrain, Japan, Pakistan

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Middle East)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Middle East)
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Saudi FM Discusses Regional Developments with Counterparts from Bahrain, Japan, Pakistan

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Middle East)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Middle East)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah held separate telephone talks on Monday with his counterpart from Bahrain, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani; Japan, Toshimitsu Motegi; and Pakistan Ishaq Dar. 

They discussed the latest developments in the region and the efforts being made towards them. 


Dubai Airport Gradually Resumes Flights after Drone Fire

A smoke plume rises from a fire at Dubai International Airport in Dubai on March 16, 2026. (Photo by AFP)
A smoke plume rises from a fire at Dubai International Airport in Dubai on March 16, 2026. (Photo by AFP)
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Dubai Airport Gradually Resumes Flights after Drone Fire

A smoke plume rises from a fire at Dubai International Airport in Dubai on March 16, 2026. (Photo by AFP)
A smoke plume rises from a fire at Dubai International Airport in Dubai on March 16, 2026. (Photo by AFP)

Officials said Monday that Dubai International Airport has gradually resumed some flights after a "drone-related incident" sparked a fuel tank fire, forcing a temporary suspension.

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announced flights are operating to selected destinations, according to the Dubai Media Office.

Emirates airline said it expected to operate a "limited schedule" after 10:00 am Dubai time (0600 GMT) and that some flights had been cancelled.

It had earlier told passengers not to come to the airport and said it was working with authorities "to assess the situation and support the safe resumption of operations when possible.”

In Abu Dhabi, a Palestinian civilian was killed on the outskirts of the Emirati capital when a missile hit their car on Monday, authorities said.

"Authorities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi responded to an incident in the Al Bahia area involving a missile strike on a civilian vehicle, which resulted in the death of one Palestinian national," the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a statement.