What to do in UAE

If you use your UAE-issued credit or debit card abroad, take note — international transaction fees are going up. Starting September 22, 2025, several local banks will apply a 3.14% surcharge on the total value of purchases made outside the country. That’s a notable increase from the current 2.09%, and it applies each time your card is used internationally. These fee changes are not uncommon, and they typically fluctuate depending on the bank’s internal strategies and market conditions. This isn’t the only update affecting local cardholders. Just last week, it announced that one-time passwords (OTPs) will no longer be sent...

Dubai, prepare to be spellbound. The world-famous WICKED The Musical is finally landing in the city for the very first time. Opening at Dubai Opera on January 28, 2026, this magical show will run until February 15. Fans of the hit production can expect an unforgettable theatrical experience like no other. Tickets for WICKED The Musical at Dubai Opera: Get the Best Seats Step into the wonder of the show and enjoy every moment live. Tickets to WICKED The Musical at Dubai Opera are already on sale on Platinumlist, make sure to book yours right now, so you get the...

One of India’s most recognised names in traditional food, Haldiram’s, has officially launched its first international outlet — and it’s right here in Dubai. Orders are available only via Talabat. Founded in 1937 in Bikaner, Haldiram’s has long been associated with authentic Indian snacks, sweets, and comfort meals. Now, Dubai residents can experience its menu straight from their phones. The offering includes a wide range of signature dishes: hearty Chole Bhature crunchy Raj Kachori Motichoor Ladoo Kaju Katli Maska Pao Bhaji     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by talabat UAE (@talabatuae) It’s a big moment...

Get ready for an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration at Rixos Premium Dubai, where the stunning Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) fireworks will set the sky ablaze as you dance into 2025! This extravagant beachfront event will be headlined by a star-studded lineup, including international music icons Dr Alban, Fedde Le Grand, Jonas Blue, and Willy William. The iconic Dr Alban will pump up the crowd with his timeless anthem "It’s My Life," while Dutch DJ sensation Fedde Le Grand will have everyone moving with his hit "Put Your Hands Up 4 Detroit." Jonas Blue, known for chart-toppers like "Fast Car"...

Monster trucks are gearing up for a big return to the UAE capital. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire is set to hit Etihad Arena on September 27, bringing back its crowd-pleasing mix of roaring engines, glowing lights, and high-energy stunts — this time with a fiery new twist. Back by popular demand, the family-friendly event will once again showcase a line-up of fan favourites including Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™, HW 5-Alarm™, Bone Shaker™, Bigfoot®, and Gunkster™.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live (@hotwheelsmonstertruckslive) Making its Abu Dhabi debut...

Asia Cup 2025 came to a thrilling close in Dubai as India triumphed over Pakistan to claim the coveted title on September 28. In a gripping final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India secured a five-wicket victory, thanks to a composed and brilliant innings from Tilak Varma, and a powerful partnership with Shivam Dube. With this win, India celebrates its ninth Asia Cup title, cementing its position as the most successful team in the history of Asia’s premier cricket tournament. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asian Cricket Council (@asiancricketcouncil) Chasing a target of 147, India found...

Get ready for a dining experience like no other in Dubai. Fuloong, a refined omakase restaurant, is now open on Jumeirah Beach Road, offering an elevated culinary journey that combines luxury ingredients with a thoughtfully curated tasting menu. Omakase, a traditional Japanese dining style meaning "I leave it up to you," is the heart of Fuloong’s dining philosophy. You trust the chef to design a tasting menu based on the season, available ingredients, and their own style. An open kitchen lets you watch the entire process. The experience at Fuloong begins with a soothing, in-house-brewed tea. Each of the 8...

Abu Dhabi is getting ready to welcome jazz lovers from around the world as the Global Host City for International Jazz Day 2025. On April 30, the UAE capital will come alive with the sounds of jazz, blending classic styles with the region’s rich musical traditions.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Abu Dhabi Culture (@abudhabiculture) Expect a unique fusion of Arabic and jazz music, where instruments like the oud, qanoon, and ney flute will mix with jazz improvisations, creating a fresh and exciting sound. Abu Dhabi’s role as host isn’t by chance. Recognized...

Get ready for a week-long celebration of creativity, dialogue, and immersive experiences as Alserkal Art Week makes a return from February 25th to March 3rd. This much-anticipated event promises a kaleidoscope of artistic expressions, from installations and exhibitions to slow art walks, workshops, pop-ups, and a community space where everyone is welcome. A Captivating Prelude: "Can You Hear Me?" by Nalini Malani The spotlight turns on as Alserkal Art Week kicks off with a mesmerizing installation by Nalini Malani titled "Can You Hear Me?" at Concrete. Running throughout the week, this immersive experience features a nine-channel video installation, showcasing over...

Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure at Alif Galactic Adventure, launching at Expo City Dubai this October. The event runs the whole day from 10 AM to 6 PM and is packed with workshops, challenges, and creative experiences. It's a fantastic way to engage with space-themed activities while having a blast with the kids. Only two weekends: October 11-12 and October 18-19. For younger adventurers, there’s Hydro Rocket Workshop, where they can design and fire their own water-powered rockets, learning about thrust and aerodynamics in a fun and interactive way. View this post on Instagram A post shared by...