What to do in UAE

Dubai Safari Park has officially announced it will close for the summer starting Sunday, June 1, marking the end of its sixth season. Known for housing over 3,000 animals, including 78 mammal species, 50 types of reptiles, and 111 varieties of birds, Dubai Safari Park has become one of the UAE’s top spots for wildlife experiences. This past season was the park’s busiest yet, with visitor numbers increasing by 67 percent compared to previous years. The nocturnal safari in particular stood out, with every session of its four-week run completely sold out.     View this post on Instagram  ...

Few comedians wield sarcasm as effortlessly as Bassem Youssef. With his razor-sharp wit and fearless take on politics and society, he’s turned laughter into a powerful form of truth-telling. On November 16th, 2025, the king of satire steps onto the stage at Coca-Cola Arena, promising a night of comedy that bites as much as it entertains. About Bassem Youssef Known as the “Jon Stewart of the Arab World”, Bassem Youssef first rose to fame with his groundbreaking satirical show Al-Bernameg. From YouTube beginnings to becoming the most-watched program in the Middle East, his fearless commentary and razor-sharp humor quickly made...

Get ready, Dubai! The queen of melody, the voice that has defined an entire generation of music lovers, Shreya Ghoshal is returning to the city for an unforgettable live performance this July 2025. Whether you've been following her journey for years or are just discovering her musical brilliance, this concert promises to be a truly enchanting experience. With a career spanning over two decades, Shreya Ghoshal has become one of the most beloved and respected voices in the Indian music industry. She has earned over 240 awards, including multiple Filmfare and National Film Awards, and continues to mesmerize fans across...

Global Village is all set to make a grand return for its 28th season, reopening on October 18th, 2023. This beloved multicultural festival and shopping destination offer visitors an immersive experience of various countries and cultures from around the world, featuring over 90 pavilions representing different nations, creating a vibrant atmosphere of global unity and cultural exchange. Alongside the cultural displays, visitors can enjoy a wide range of entertainment shows, live concerts, and thrilling performances by local and international artists. This year, Global Village is set to be bigger and better than ever, with new country pavilions, more shopping experiences, rides,...

Two of Dubai’s busiest shopping destinations — Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Deira — have introduced a barrierless parking system this year, designed to streamline visitors' experience. But if you don’t play by the new rules, you could end up with a AED 150 fine. Here’s a clear guide to how it works, how to pay, and how to avoid any unnecessary fees. How the New Parking System Works The new system uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to track your vehicle’s entry and exit time. Cameras scan your plate as you drive in and out — no...

As the UAE enters a festive season that honors its heritage and patriotism, many expatriates living in the country wonder about UAE Commemoration Day, often seen alongside the more widely celebrated UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad). However, this solemn observance has unique significance. Here’s what you need to know about its meaning, customs, and the holiday structure. What is UAE Commemoration Day? UAE Commemoration Day, also known as Martyr’s Day, is observed on November 30 each year to honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives in service to the UAE. Established by the late President...

Get ready to lace up those sneakers and break a sweat because the Dubai Fitness Challenge is back, and it's bringing a month-long fitness fiesta to the city! From October 26th to November 24th, Dubai will transform into a bustling hub of energy and activity, all in the name of health and wellness. If you've been searching for a quick and fun way to kickstart your fitness journey, look no further. The Dubai Fitness Challenge is your golden ticket to staying committed to moving your body for at least 30 minutes every day for an entire month. And the best...

Straight from the sand dunes into the snow, you can now experience this unique world starting June 8th in Abu Dhabi! The desert city of Abu Dhabi is set to welcome a winter wonderland like no other with the opening of Snow Abu Dhabi on June 8th. The highly anticipated attraction is located in the heart of the capital's Reem Mall, promising visitors a one-of-a-kind experience that will transport them to a snowy world unlike any other in the region. The indoor snow park spans over 10,000 square feet, featuring a myriad of thrilling activities and attractions for guests of...

After nearly two years of closure for enhancement works, Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, is now welcoming visitors again. Located on Bluewaters Island, this impressive 250-meter-tall landmark offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Dubai's glittering skyline, the Arabian Gulf, and iconic landmarks. Ain Dubai originally opened on October 21, 2021, quickly becoming a centerpiece of Dubai’s attractions. However, it temporarily closed in March 2022 for enhancements. Initially expected to reopen during Eid Al Fitr that year, its relaunch was postponed multiple times before a soft launch on December 25, 2024, confirmed its readiness to welcome visitors again. Ain Dubai...

Starting today, March 24, the UAE’s new AED 100 (one hundred dirhams) polymer banknote is officially in circulation. The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has introduced this updated version with modern security features and a fresh design while keeping the familiar red color scheme. The new banknote will be used alongside the existing AED 100 notes, whether paper or polymer. Banks and exchange centers have been instructed to update their machines so they can process the new notes smoothly. Polymer banknotes are more durable and eco-friendly than traditional paper notes. They last twice as long, making them a more...