Ultimate Travel Guide - Latest News

Residents in Dubai will now be required to clear all outstanding traffic fines before renewing their residency visas, according to a recent announcement by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). During a press briefing, Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the GDRFA, confirmed that visa renewals will not be processed if traffic fines are unpaid. He emphasized that the move is not meant to burden residents but to encourage respect for the law. “If the traffic fine is a big amount, they can pay in instalments,” Al Marri explained. The decision comes in response...

Qiddiya City is taking another big step toward becoming a global hub for sports and entertainment. In a newly announced global partnership with the Faldo Series, the city has revealed plans for an 18-hole championship golf course, designed by six-time Major winner Sir Nick Faldo. The course is expected to open in 2026 and is part of Qiddiya’s strategy to support sporting development in Saudi Arabia, particularly among youth. The partnership with the Faldo Series — a well-known international platform for young golf talent — reflects the Kingdom’s continued investment in grassroots sports under Vision 2030. The upcoming course won’t...

Ming Dynasty, a new Chinese restaurant and entertainment venue, opened its doors at Dubai Mall on July 22. The spot is currently in its soft opening phase and brings together dining and interactive experiences in a family-friendly setting. Located in the Fountain Views Complex, Ming Dynasty offers more than just a restaurant. The space includes a karaoke room, a dedicated lounge, and LED screen displays animated with dragons.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ming Dynasty Dubai (@mingdynastydubai) At the heart of the venue is the international buffet, where guests can explore dishes from...

A new wellness destination has arrived in Abu Dhabi. Aura Wellness, a Balinese-inspired concept, opened its doors at One Reem Island. The space combines a luxury wellness studio, concept store, and café – all under one roof. The centre is designed with a muted colour palette of browns and beiges and aims to promote holistic health for both body and mind. A second location at Mamsha Al Saadiyat is also in the works and expected to open soon.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by THE UAE FOOD GUIDE (@uaefood_guide) Aura Wellness offers a variety...

If you're looking for something new to do this weekend, make space in your plans for a boho & beach-themed pop-up at Flat12 Cafe, taking place from July 25 to 27 in Port Rashid. This pop-up is hosted in collaboration between 360 iPopup and Flat12, and it's open to all, with free entry and activities suitable for the whole family. The event promises boho-inspired beach vibes, creative sessions, and a chance to explore 30 local vendors selling fashion, handmade jewellery, Emirati perfumes, and other lifestyle items. It’s a good opportunity to support homegrown talent in a relaxed setting.    ...

The Curated Playlist pop-up is coming back to Dubai with a fresh twist — a family-friendly edition set to run from October 10 to 12 at Al Khayat Avenue, Al Quoz. This homegrown event brings together popular regional brands and creative concepts for a weekend filled with shopping, food, and family activations. If you're into discovering local labels or just want to spend a lively day out with the family, this one's worth marking in your calendar.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Curated Playlist (@curatedplaylist.dxb) Over three days, you’ll be able to shop...

Open Fire Food Festival (OFFF) by Steve Harvey is coming back to Abu Dhabi for its second edition, setting Etihad Park ablaze with bold flavours, smoky grills, and live-fire cooking. The two-day event takes place on November 8 and 9, 2025, bringing together celebrity chefs, pitmasters, music, and family-friendly activities. What Is the Open Fire Food Festival by Steve Harvey? Founded around Steve Harvey’s love for authentic barbecue and live-fire cooking, the Open Fire Food Festival was created to bring authentic American-style BBQ culture to the region. The American entertainer, comedian, and long-time TV host is also a self-professed barbecue...

On Saturday, July 26, Loco Bear in Al Quoz 2, Dubai is turning into a full-scale adventure ground with a Labubu-themed immersive experience. The event runs from 4 PM to 7 PM, offering kids and families a high-energy challenge spread across five interactive zones. Participants will receive a zone map at the start and move through a series of physical challenges. Each completed task earns them a Pass or Fail stamp, and collecting five Pass stamps means they’ve conquered the full quest.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Loco Bear Dubai- The Ultimate Entertainment...

The UAE has officially entered the global top 10 for passport power. According to the latest Henley Passport Index, the UAE passport is now ranked 8th, granting its holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 countries and territories. This puts the UAE on par with Canada and Estonia, and marks a major leap from its 42nd position just over a decade ago. In fact, the UAE has seen the biggest climb of any country in that time span — rising 34 spots. The Henley Passport Index is based on how many destinations passport holders can visit without a prior visa....

London’s iconic restaurants The Wolseley and Colbert are stepping into the hospitality world in a new way. Minor Hotels, in partnership with the Wolseley Hospitality Group, has announced plans to launch four hotel brands inspired by the well-known dining spots. At the core of this expansion is a focus on food-driven travel. The Colbert Collection is set to open in the Middle East, although the exact city and launch date are still under wraps. The brand aims to appeal to guests who seek authentic, neighbourhood-style experiences, with the restaurant itself forming the heart of the hotel.     View this...