Ultimate Travel Guide - Latest News

Dubai has added another major milestone to its growing list of global achievements. On Tuesday, the emirate unveiled the world’s largest visa application centre at Wafi City, with a capacity to process up to 10,000 applications per day. Spanning approximately 150,000 square feet, this new VFS Global facility is designed to streamline visa services and cater to the city’s fast-growing role as a global transit and business hub. The centre is operated by a team of more than 400 trained staff representing over 25 nationalities, offering a multilingual and inclusive service experience.     View this post on Instagram  ...

Abu Dhabi is gearing up for another high-tech motorsport showdown as the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) returns to Yas Marina Circuit on Friday, November 15, 2025. After drawing over 10,000 spectators and more than a million virtual viewers last year, the driverless car race is back with even higher stakes – a prize pool exceeding AED 8 million. For 2025, the league introduces A2RL SIM-Sprint, a virtual global racing series designed to help teams to train AI algorithms in dynamic, simulated environments and test edge cases that don’t often arise in real-world conditions. In the future, SIM-Sprint aims...

Dubai’s dining scene continues to attract global names, and the latest arrival is Villa Coconut, a popular Egyptian concept making its international debut in the heart of DIFC. Villa Coconut was first launched by TLT Concepts in the beachside town of El Gouna, Egypt. Known for its easy-going charm, clean white interiors, and laid-back energy, the original venue became a go-to spot on Egypt’s Red Sea coast. Now, the concept enters the UAE market with a fresh new location in Gate Avenue, DIFC.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Villa Coconut DIFC (@villa.coconutdifc) What...

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has rolled out two new exits this week, aiming to ease congestion and better connect residential areas and leisure spots to the city's main roads. 1. Exit for Town Square Residents Residents of Town Square now have a direct exit to E611 (Emirates Road). The connection was part of a broader plan announced in February 2025 to relieve pressure on Al Qudra Road, a route that regularly sees heavy traffic during rush hour.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Town Square Dubai (@townsquaredxb) Previously, exiting Town...

With temperatures climbing fast in Dubai, the beloved Ripe Market is making its seasonal move indoors — and this year, it’s found a stylish new summer base. From May 25 to September 28, Ripe Market will pop up every Sunday inside The Roast by Bubbalicious at Mina’s Kitchen, located in The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Ripe Market (@ripemarket) This summer edition of Ripe Market keeps things cool and curated, offering a selection of local businesses and artisanal finds. Shoppers can browse: Handmade jewellery...

Pier 7 in Dubai Marina is getting a fresh addition to its lineup of dining destinations. Set to open soon, Elaia brings a refined yet welcoming Mediterranean concept to one of the city’s most recognisable culinary hubs. Elaia takes over an entire floor of Pier 7 and is designed to evoke the calming ambiance of the coast. Its interiors feature classic blue and white tones, warm accents of wood, rattan, and hand-painted murals depicting Greek mythology. A versatile layout includes balcony seating, a central bar, high chairs, and counter seating.     View this post on Instagram   A post...

Boutique brand Earth Hotels is preparing to make a splash in the Middle East hospitality scene. With a strong focus on design, sustainability, and lifestyle experiences, the brand is set to open four new properties across the UAE and Saudi Arabia by 2027. Each location brings a unique concept — from mangrove retreats to party-ready beach resorts. Here’s what’s coming up. Earth Mangroves in Umm Al Quwain, UAE Opening in 2025, this eco-conscious resort is nestled within Umm Al Quwain’s lush mangroves. The property will feature: 41 free-standing bungalows, including waterfront units Nature-based activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, yoga, and...

Authorities in Khor Fakkan have announced a temporary suspension of swimming at Al Zubarah Beach after oil traces were detected in the water. The decision, announced on Monday by Khor Fakkan Municipality, is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and visitors at one of the area’s most frequented beaches. The municipality confirmed that the closure is not permanent and that teams are actively addressing the issue. Environmental authorities are currently monitoring water quality while investigating the source of the spill. Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, noted that...

Jeddah’s dining scene is growing fast, and the latest addition is bringing both character and creativity to the table. Dear Duck, a new concept by local chef and restaurateur Nihal Felemban, has officially opened its doors in La Paz Plaza, As Salamah. Felemban’s latest concept is turning heads with its distinct theme, playful design, and curated duck-inspired dining. Dear Duck draws design cues from California and Paris, blending laid-back cool with chic French style. The venue is hard to miss, with its bright yellow façade standing out along the street. Inside, there’s a cosy and lively atmosphere, from booth seating...

Parkin Company has launched a new monthly parking subscription service in Dubai, offering residents more convenience and fewer fines. The initiative allows drivers to pay for parking in advance in designated zones, avoiding the hassle of tracking time or overstaying. Subscriptions are available through the Parkin app or website, with options ranging from one to twelve months. Several areas have been included in this new subscription model. Here’s a breakdown based on the current pricing: Dubai Hills (Zone 631G), Silicon Oasis (Zone H) & Roadside and plot parking (Zones A, B, C and D) AED 500 (1 month) AED 1,400...