Good news for pet owners! Abu Dhabi has updated its laws, allowing pets to join their owners at hotels and restaurants with tourism licenses. This change means you can now bring your furry friends along for the adventure when you visit. Previously, pets were only allowed in restaurants if they were certified service animals. But now, cats and dogs are welcome at many public venues, making Abu Dhabi more pet-friendly than ever. Here’s what these venues are required to offer to ensure both pets and guests have a great experience: Designated outdoor areas for animals, such as patios, balconies, or...
Dubai’s man-made coastline keeps growing. Alongside Palm Jumeirah, The World Islands, and the soon-to-launch Palm Jebel Ali, the city is adding a new name to the list: Naïa Island. The project is developed by Shamal Holding and will be built just off Jumeirah Beach, between Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah 3. Naïa Island will include low-rise buildings only, so views of the city’s skyline will stay visible from across the island. Early visuals show a focus on green landscapes, open space, and unobstructed sea views. One of the key components of the development is the arrival of the region’s first Cheval...
Big changes are hitting Dubai’s shores! The beloved Umm Suqeim Beach, famous for its stunning views, family-friendly vibe, and the annual Flag Garden, is about to undergo a huge transformation. And if you love this spot now, it’s about to get even better with more space, upgraded features, and new additions. Here’s the transformation of Umm Suqeim Beach in numbers: AED 500 million: budget allocated for the upgrade 445,000 sqm: total area, which comes with 30% more beach space 10 new mobility hubs and 11 taxi pick-up points to improve transport options 200% increase in parking spaces Check out the...
Luxury wellness brand Miraval is heading to Saudi Arabia, bringing its signature concept of mindful luxury to Shura Island, part of the Red Sea Project. The new resort promises a slower, more intentional way to travel — where wellbeing, nature and design take centre stage. Set along the pristine Red Sea coast, Miraval The Red Sea will offer an adults-only escape focused on balance and self-care. Expect thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, wellness-led dining, immersive spa experiences and curated daily activities created to help guests calmful recharge. True to the brand’s philosophy, the resort will focus on experiences rather than excess. From personalised wellness programmes and movement sessions...
There’s an important UAE highway update you’ll want to be aware of if you're planning to drive between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. Starting September 1, part of the E11 highway in Ras Al Khaimah will be closed for the first phase of a major roadworks project. A temporary 2-km road will be built to keep traffic moving safely during the construction period. You can check the affected area (marked red) and the alternative route (light green) on the official map provided by RAK's Department of Public Services below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by دائرة الخدمات...
The desert beats are coming back. AZIMUTH 2025 has officially announced its dates, with the two-day festival set to take over AlUla from 25 to 26 September 2025. Held in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s dramatic desert landscape, AZIMUTH blends music, art and cultural experiences, creating one of the most memorable festival settings in the region. This year’s theme is “Until The Sun Comes Up” — a nod to the festival’s signature format of performances that stretch from sunset to sunrise. The event also coincides with Saudi National Day, giving it even more reason to celebrate. View this...
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that 70% of the Umm Suqeim Street Improvement Project is now complete. The large-scale road upgrade is designed to improve citywide connectivity and ease congestion, particularly for the over one million residents living in and around the areas of Al Barsha South, Dubai Hills, Arjan, and Dubai Science Park. The development stretches from the intersection of Al Khail Road to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and forms part of the larger Umm Suqeim–Al Qudra corridor. This strategic route spans 16 kilometres from Jumeirah Street all the way to Emirates Road, making it...
Carrefour has officially closed its doors in Bahrain and Kuwait, bringing an end to decades of service in these countries. The French retail giant thanked customers for their loyalty and support over the years, celebrating the many memories made along the way. This isn’t the first time Carrefour has exited a Gulf market – earlier this year, it also stopped operations in Oman. However, in Oman, the closure paved the way for something new: Dubai’s Majid Al Futtaim Group, which owned and managed Carrefour there, launched a new grocery brand called HyperMax. Carrefour continues to be a firm favourite in...
AlUla is adding another architectural and hospitality milestone to its growing list of developments. The AlUla Development Company (UDC), a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has unveiled the concept for NUMAJ, a 250-room luxury hotel developed in partnership with Marriott International’s Autograph Collection. The property is set to open in 2027. Inspired by both astronomy and cultural heritage, the name NUMAJ takes reference from Nu Ursae Majoris, a star system used by ancient travellers in the region. It also nods to the Arabic phrase Al Kafzah al Ula, or "the first leap," highlighting the spirit of discovery...
Get ready for a brand-new hotspot in Abu Dhabi! Soho Beach is opening its doors on Yas Island at Yas Beach on Friday, April 4, 2025. This beach club promises to be the next big thing in the city's party scene. Soho Beach Yas Island combines relaxation with excitement. With stunning white sands, crystal-clear waters, and views of the natural mangroves, it’s the perfect place to unwind or join in the fun. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Soho Beach Yas Island (@sohobeach.yasisland) Whether you're lounging by the infinity pool or enjoying delicious meals,...