Discover all the fun things to do

Dubai has rolled out temporary flexible working hours for government employees during the summer months, aiming to improve work-life balance and boost productivity. The initiative, confirmed by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), will run from July 1 to September 12, 2025. The flexible work model follows the official five-day workweek and divides employees into two working groups: Group 1 works eight hours from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays off completely. Group 2 works seven hours Monday to Thursday, and 4.5 hours on Friday. For many government employees in Dubai, weekends already include a half-day Friday and full days...

Dubai regularly updates its rules to keep life in the emirate comfortable and well organised. As part of this effort, a new law on the quality and safety of buildings has been issued, aimed at ensuring properties remain properly maintained and safe for the people who live and work in them. The rules apply to all buildings in the emirate, including those located in private development areas and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre. They cover buildings completed both before and after the law comes into force. One of the key requirements is a Quality and Safety...

If you're into delicious pastries and top-notch coffee, bkry just opened the perfect spot for you in Abu Dhabi. The Dubai-based bakery, famous for its mouth-watering treats and cozy vibe, has made its debut at The Arcades, right in the heart of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. Pop in for breakfast, with satisfying options like Berries on Toast and Wild Mushroom on Toast, both perfect for starting the day. If you’ve got a savory craving, Beef Sando and Chicken Teriyaki Sandwich are worth trying. But let’s be real: what everyone really loves about bkry is their pastry. Expect cult favourites...

Exciting news for aspiring chefs in Saudi Arabia – Gordon Ramsay Academy is coming to Riyadh! Scheduled to open by the end of 2025, this marks the first time Gordon Ramsay’s culinary school will be setting up shop in the Kingdom, and it’s creating quite a buzz. Located in the upcoming Narjis View Mall, it’ll offer a unique opportunity to learn from one of the most famous chefs in the world. With an international culinary icon like Gordon Ramsay backing the academy, you know you’re in good hands. Whether you dream of mastering gourmet dishes or pursuing a career in...

If you use public transport in Dubai, you probably rely on a nol card. By 2026, the system will be completely upgraded, introducing digital payments, smartphone integration, and new fare options. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has already completed 40% of the project, which is being rolled out in three phases with a total investment of AED 550 million. What’s Changing in Dubai’s nol card? The biggest shift is moving from the current card-based ticketing system to an account-based model. This means nol cardholders will have digital accounts linked to their cards, making payments and top-ups more flexible. The...

If you want something different from a standard theatre night, Short+Sweet Theatre Festival returns to Dubai this April. Now in its 14th year, it brings together nearly 250 writers, directors, and actors, with most of the work created by UAE-based talent. The festival will take place from April 18 to May 23 at New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates. The core of the event stays the same: short plays, quick pace, and a full lineup in one evening. Such a format lets you see more in less time, and come back to follow what makes it to the...

Dubai-based healthy food brand SOIL has opened a temporary café pop-up at Kite Beach, bringing its clean and functional food concept to one of the city’s most popular seaside destinations. Designed as a convenient stop to grab a healthy snack or drink, the pop-up is ideal for a beach stroll, a morning run, or a post-workout refuel, offering a relaxed way to enjoy SOIL’s signature approach to nutrition by the sea. The pop-up menu features a curated selection of SOIL favourites, focusing on protein-forward options. Visitors can try Coconut Oats Protein Cup, a creamy mix of oats, coconut flakes, and plant-based protein, perfect...

Ready to discover a side of the Saudi art story most people haven’t seen yet? Step inside Bedayat exhibition at the National Museum in Riyadh and you’ll find the early chapters of the Saudi art movement laid out in front of you. It is open to visitors until April 11. Inside, you’ll find more than 250 artworks created by 73 artists, along with archival documents that show how art education and early exhibitions developed across the Kingdom. The exhibition looks at the period when Saudi artists began studying formally, organising shows, and shaping what would become the country’s modern art...

Oman is taking a big step toward modernizing its payment systems with the introduction of a national payment card. Set to be issued by local banks under the oversight of the Central Bank, this new initiative is designed to offer a more secure, smooth, and convenient way for people to make payments both online and in stores. This move is a major part of Oman’s push to develop its digital payment landscape and reduce reliance on foreign payment providers. The new card will allow users to make transactions within a unified national system, making payments easier and safer for everyone,...

The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon 2025 is just around the corner! Scheduled for Saturday, February 1, this iconic event welcomes runners of all levels to experience a truly unique race. Known as the "World's Fastest Half Marathon," it offers participants the chance to achieve personal bests on a flat, fast course set against the breathtaking backdrop of Al Marjan Island. The race route winds along the golden shores of Al Marjan Island, with the shimmering Arabian Gulf on one side and the majestic Jebel Jais Mountains in the distance. The course’s flat terrain, mild February weather, and refreshing coastal...