What to do in UAE

If you’ve ever wondered what Abu Dhabi might taste like, there’s finally an answer, and it comes wrapped in gold. Chef Nouel Catis, the creative mind behind SNA’AP, has launched a new treat called Abu Dhabi Chocolate in collaboration with the homegrown Emirati brand Rain Café. This chocolate is built around the city’s spirit: calm, warm, and rooted in tradition. Each bite brings layers of flavour that nod to Abu Dhabi’s heritage. There's halwa blended with salted caramel, saffron and cardamom adding spice and warmth, and a touch of tahini and date syrup for that rich, silky sweetness. A gentle...

In a major first for digital finance, Dubai will soon allow residents to pay for government services using cryptocurrency. The move, announced during the Dubai FinTech Summit, marks a historic step in integrating blockchain-backed currencies into public sector operations. The Department of Finance (DOF) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with global digital asset platform Crypto.com. Once operational, the system will enable residents to pay for government services using crypto, which will be converted into AED before being transferred to DOF accounts. This would make Dubai the first government in the world to implement crypto payments across a wide range...

If you’re driving from Abu Dhabi toward Dubai this weekend, make sure to plan your trip ahead. Abu Dhabi Mobility announced that part of Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road (E11) will be closed in two stages, starting Friday, August 15, 2025. This partial closure will take place near the Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road interchange, in the Baniyas West area. It’s a key route connecting Abu Dhabi to Dubai, so be prepared for potential delays. Stage 1: Right Lanes Closure When? From 10:30 PM on Friday, August 15, to 3 PM on Saturday, August 16 The affected area: the two right lanes...

Dubai has announced bold plans to expand drone delivery services, aiming to cover 70% of the emirate by 2030. As a part of Phase One, six drones are already delivering food, medicine, and other essentials at Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). This phase is focused on setting up low-altitude air routes, finding safe landing zones, and ensuring that the delivery system is secure. By 2026, the aim is for drones to cover 33% of Dubai, providing a quicker, more efficient way to transport essential items, especially in busy or hard-to-reach areas. View this post on Instagram A post shared by keeta_drone...

Ras Al Khaimah is about to become even more special. AMAN Group has announced a new project: Janu Al Marjan Island, which will take a vision of coastal living to another level. The development will feature a luxurious hotel with 132 rooms and suites, each designed to highlight the expansive sea views. Next to the hotel, a residential tower will offer an exclusive selection of homes ranging from one-bedroom apartments to spacious five-bedroom residences. For those seeking privacy, a small collection of standalone villas will also be available. Residents will have full access to all resort amenities. Janu Al Marjan...

If you're a South African living in the UAE, renewing your passport just got a whole lot simpler. As of July 2025, VFS Global has introduced a new service that lets you apply for a new passport right here in Dubai — no consulate visit or flight back home required. The passport renewal service is now available at Wafi Mall in Dubai at VFS Global, world’s largest visa application centre, which is currently the only official partner of South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs in the UAE. Instead of going through the consulate, you can now follow this procedure: Visit...

Air Arabia is adding a new route that many travellers will welcome. The airline will start non-stop flights to London Gatwick from Sharjah from March 2026. With two flights per a day, a lot of people will get more flexibility when planning trips between the UAE and the UK. The flights will be operated by the Airbus A321neo LR. It’s a long-range aircraft, so the journey is set to feel smoother and more comfortable for passengers. The new route also means easier connections for anyone travelling between the two destinations without having to switch airports or deal with long stopovers....

Ras Al Khaimah is about to host something pretty special! The Ripe Market is making its debut in the city! If you’re looking for a fun family day out, this is the place to be. This pop-up market will be happening during the National Day weekend, from November 29 to December 2. The market is filled with cool finds like fashion, home décor, jewellery, arts and crafts, and sustainable products. It’s a great place to find something unique or support local businesses. If you’re looking for fun, the market has you covered! Challenge the kids or your partner to some...

Pickl has rolled out a new seasonal special that’s as bold as it is unexpected: The Boujee Bird Sando. Available for a limited time until August 31, this unusual sandwich pairs fried chicken with ice cream — and it’s only available for dine-in. On the plate, you’ll get a crispy fried chicken fillet stacked with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of hot butter honey, and all of it tucked inside a toasted potato bun. The result is a sandwich that plays with contrast: hot and cold, sweet and spicy, soft and crunchy, all at once.    ...

Dubai, another great dining concept coming! Chef Neha Mishra, the woman behind beloved Japanese restaurant Kinoya, is set to open a brand-new dining spot with Atelier House Hospitality. This time, she’s focusing on temaki — hand-rolled sushi — offering a fresh and interactive dining experience. The temaki bar is expected to open in the third quarter of 2025, though the name and exact location remain under wraps for now.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Atelier House Hospitality (@atelierhousehospitality) The new venture will shine a spotlight on temaki. Known for its crisp seaweed wrap...