Ultimate Travel Guide - Latest News

Bahrain has officially announced that Wednesday, January 1, 2025, will be a public holiday to mark the start of the new year. The decision, detailed in a circular issued by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, applies to all public institutions across the country. The Kingdom's ministries, state departments, and public institutions will be closed on Wednesday, 1 January 2025. This announcement means that residents can enjoy a midweek break to celebrate New Year’s Day with family, friends, or personal plans. Businesses and private sector organizations may follow suit, although their operational...

Abu Dhabi’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are always a highlight, and Al Maryah Island is adding an exciting twist this year. Moving away from traditional fireworks, the island will feature a cutting-edge laser and light spectacle, making it an unforgettable way to welcome 2025. The night begins with Al Maryah’s popular Winter Wonderland, running from 7 PM to 1 AM, offering family-friendly fun, live performances, and cultural showcases. The main events kick off at 11:50 PM with a mesmerizing drone show featuring 500 synchronized drones lighting up the sky with stunning patterns and animations. As the clock strikes midnight, two...

Looking for the perfect place to enjoy New Year’s Eve fireworks in Bahrain? This guide will help you find the ideal location to ring in 2025. Whether you’re planning a grand night out, a cozy dinner with a view, or simply heading to one of the designated viewing spots, Bahrain offers an array of options to welcome the new year in style. Multiple displays light up Bahrain’s skies, with Bahrain Bay hosting an incredible four shows. Plan your evening early to beat the traffic and enjoy the festivities hassle-free. Don’t forget to dress warmly — it’s going to be a...

Big news for cricket fans in Dubai! The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced an exciting twist for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy: it will be held across two countries, Dubai and Pakistan. This hybrid model will give cricket enthusiasts a unique chance to experience matches in both places, with all of India’s games taking place in Dubai. Here’s everything you need to know to get ready for this thrilling cricket event! The Board of Control for Cricket India has made it clear that the Indian team will not be traveling to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. To...

As Dubai gears up for its New Year celebrations, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced extended service hours for public transport, including the Dubai Metro and Tram. This move aims to ease the usual traffic congestion and provide a convenient way for everyone to get around during the festivities. Starting December 31 at 5 AM, the Dubai Metro will operate nonstop until the end of January 1, offering more than 43 hours of continuous service. The Dubai Tram will also be available for extended hours, from 6 AM on December 31 to 1 AM on January 2. To...

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced planned road closures across the city on New Year’s Eve, including key routes like Sheikh Zayed Road, to manage traffic during celebrations. These measures aim to ensure the safety and convenience of residents and visitors heading to popular destinations like Downtown Dubai for the much-anticipated fireworks displays. If you’re planning to join the festivities or travel through the city, here’s everything you need to know about the closures and how to navigate the evening. Road Closures in Dubai on NYE: Full Schedule From 4 PM on December 31, the following roads will...

The Abu Dhabi Festival returns for its 22nd edition in 2025, uniting music, performance, and cultural exchange under the theme “Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony.” This year’s celebration shines a spotlight on the enduring friendship between the UAE and Japan, marking 50 years of cultural collaboration. Featuring world-class performances from internationally acclaimed artists, the festival promises a rich tapestry of musical traditions and contemporary innovation. Here’s a glimpse at the standout events scheduled for this year: KODO – April 8 & 9, 2025 Experience the electrifying rhythms of KODO, a legendary Japanese drumming ensemble. Combining theatre with traditional...

Celebrate the magic of the season at Winter Festival at Al Qana in Abu Dhabi! Until 14 January 2025, this event transforms the picturesque waterfront into a winter wonderland filled with joy, entertainment, and creative activities for all ages. The Al Qana Winter Festival is more than just an event — it’s an experience designed to bring family and friends together. Visitors can explore: A vibrant seasonal market: Stroll through the market, brimming with artisanal products, festive treats, and unique gifts to bring the holiday spirit home. Engaging children’s workshops: Keep the little ones entertained with hands-on crafts and activities,...

Step into the Light & Peace Museum, a one-of-a-kind cultural and touristic experience located at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Running from 18 December 2024 to 31 December 2025, this immersive exhibition invites visitors to discover a tapestry of history, spirituality, and art that underscores values of tolerance, coexistence, and cultural exchange. The museum’s journey is divided into five thematic realms, each exploring how these timeless principles have shaped civilizations over centuries. Drawing inspiration from Islamic teachings and the region’s ancient heritage, the exhibition highlights the United Arab Emirates’ ongoing role in fostering global dialogue and understanding. Visitors...

Starting January 1, 2025, Dubai will implement a major ban on single-use plastics that will reshape the way takeaways are packaged across the emirate. This move is part of Dubai’s broader effort to encourage sustainability and reduce environmental waste, building on an earlier ban on plastic bags under 57 micrometres. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s changing and how it might impact your daily routine. What’s Included in the January 2025 Plastic Ban in Dubai? The 2025 phase of Dubai’s plastic ban will prohibit a wide range of single-use plastic items, including: Plastic straws Plastic stirrers Plastic cups...