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Dubai is about to get a taste of modern Spain with the arrival of Barrafina, a popular tapas restaurant that’s officially opening its doors on January 26. Located in DIFC Gate Village 1, this marks the first Barrafina location in the Middle East, with more expected to follow. The restaurant concept is all about sharing, because, as the saying goes, sharing is caring. Barrafina’s roots trace back to the Spanish heritage of brothers Sam and Eddie Hart, who grew up in Mallorca. First ever spot opened in 2007 in London, and quickly became a standout. The same spirit of no-fuss...

On Monday, November 3, 2025, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defence will conduct a siren test in several regions to help strengthen the country’s emergency preparedness. The test is part of a broader effort to improve public awareness of national alert systems and ensure swift responses during potential crises. Check out the full list of locations and test timings below. Siren test in Riyadh Region: Diriyah Al Kharj Al Dilam Siren test in Mecca Region: Jeddah Thuwal Siren test in Tabuk Region: entire governorate Authorities are urging the public not to panic, as this is simply a test aimed...

If you regularly drive to mosques in Dubai, there’s a new parking update you need to know. Starting August 2025, more than 2,100 parking spaces across 59 mosques in the city will be managed by Parkin Company, under a new agreement with Dubai’s Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). The new setup allows free parking for one hour during prayer time. Outside those hours, however, all these spaces will become paid parking zones, operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The newly managed mosque parking areas will be assigned to either Zone M or Zone MP, each...

The UAE has made significant progress in the World Happiness Index 2025, published by Gallup. It now ranks 21st globally, surpassing countries like the US, UK, France, Germany, and Singapore, as well as all Arab nations. Gallup’s report attributes the UAE’s strong performance to economic stability, strong social support, and high-quality infrastructure. The country’s growing job market, positive economic outlook, and high living standards have boosted residents' overall happiness and well-being. Other UAE Rankings for 2025: 12th place for trust in people (based on returning lost wallets) 16th place worldwide for charitable donations 19th place for volunteering time 67th place...

Dubai has announced an exciting new project, the Dubai Walk, aimed at creating an extensive 3,300km pedestrian-friendly network to enhance mobility and encourage walking in the city. Spearheaded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the initiative seeks to redefine urban living with walkways, green trails, and cutting-edge pedestrian facilities. The Dubai Walk Master Plan will include: Climate-controlled pathways allowing pedestrians to walk comfortably year-round with innovative cooling technology. 112 km of scenic waterfront pathways and 124 km green trails. 110 pedestrian bridges and tunnels to ensure seamless connectivity. 150km...

Elon Musk’s tunnel construction company, The Boring Company, is planning to propose a new underground transport project in Riyadh. The idea is to help reduce traffic in the city by building a network of underground roads. This announcement comes just a day before Musk's Tesla officially launches its electric vehicles in Saudi Arabia on April 10. Riyadh is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Its population is expected to jump to nearly 10 million by 2030 (+35% in 8 years). With more people and cars on the road, the city is looking for smart ways to manage traffic...

Dubai-based developer Binghatti has launched a new residential project — Binghatti Flare — in Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT). With a total value of AED 2.1 billion for each tower, the development includes two high-rise towers featuring more than 1,300 residential units. The Sky Terrace residences will range from studio to four-bedroom units, offering a wide variety of layouts. Key lifestyle features include: Private pools 20+ premium amenities JVT’s first man-made beach Egyptian buyers are among the most active international investors for Binghatti, which is why the developer has kept a dedicated team stationed in Rixos Premium Alamein for five days...

Ming Dynasty, a new Chinese restaurant and entertainment venue, opened its doors at Dubai Mall on July 22. The spot is currently in its soft opening phase and brings together dining and interactive experiences in a family-friendly setting. Located in the Fountain Views Complex, Ming Dynasty offers more than just a restaurant. The space includes a karaoke room, a dedicated lounge, and LED screen displays animated with dragons.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ming Dynasty Dubai (@mingdynastydubai) At the heart of the venue is the international buffet, where guests can explore dishes from...

Riyadh is welcoming a new name in the global art and design scene. Known for its high-profile exhibitions in Moscow, ARTDOM is making its Gulf debut in Saudi Arabia with a two-day event on November 11-12, 2025 at Saraj Venue, located on Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Road. This marks a new chapter in the Kingdom’s cultural growth, bringing together 55 international exhibitors, many of whom are showcasing their work in the region for the first time.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ARTDOM EXPO (@artdom_design) The event will highlight a carefully curated mix of...

Abu Dhabi is quickly becoming a magnet for major musicals, and something really spooky coming to the capital. After the buzz around Mamma Mia! set to light up the city in June 2025 — complete with a glam brunch option — it's been confirmed that BEETLEJUICE The Musical will be making its debut in the UAE capital this November. The clues were coming via Etihad Arena's social media in the past weeks, and now, it's official: Beetlejuice fans, it’s showtime! And time to get your tickets to one of the most anticipated performances of this autumn! Make sure to clear...