Latest news in Hungary - 28 Jan 2025

- Orbán's Official Visit to the UAE
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is on a two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates to meet President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The trip includes a business breakfast with Emirati leaders and a Hungarian delegation focusing on energy, finance, and defense sectors. This visit follows Hungary selling a significant railway area to an Emirati investor for 50.9 billion HUF. Read more here

- Extension of Russian Sanctions Approved by EU Council
The European Union Council has approved the extension of economic sanctions against Russia, with Hungarian support. Minister Péter Szijjártó linked Hungary's consent to guarantees about energy security regarding gas transit from Ukraine, aiming to stabilize Hungary's energy supplies amid geopolitical tensions. Read more here

- BKK Expands Security Personnel and Features
The Budapest Transport Center (BKK) plans to increase its security staff from 39 to 75 due to a rise in safety interventions and improved public satisfaction. Starting in March, BKK passengers will be able to request security assistance directly via the BudapestGO app, enhancing overall safety during public transport. Read more here

- Budapest to Exercise Right of First Refusal at Rákosrendező
Mayor Gergely Karácsony announced that Budapest will exercise its right of first refusal over the Rákosrendező area to develop Parkváros instead of allowing it to be transformed into a "mini-Dubai." This highlights ongoing debates about urban development in the city and local governance. Read more here

- Protests Loom Over Mini-Dubai Development
The leader of the Tisza Party has threatened to mobilize against the controversial mini-Dubai project in the Rákosrendező area, which has sparked concerns over affordable housing availability. The Budapest Capital Assembly may soon vote on halting this development project, showing a divide in local opinions on urban projects. Read more here

- New Proposal to Restrict Alcohol Sales in Újbuda
The Újbuda mayor is proposing regulations to restrict alcohol sales from tobacco shops between 10 PM and 6 AM. This proposal aims to address community concerns about nightlife disruptions, though it faces some opposition regarding its effectiveness. Discussions are set for January 30. Read more here

- Star-Studded Lineup for Sziget Festival
The Sziget Festival is gearing up with big-name performers like A$AP Rocky, Post Malone, and Shawn Mendes. This year's diverse lineup promises to be memorable with both international stars and local talents ready to entertain festival-goers. Don't miss out on this iconic event! Read more here

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