Ultimate Travel Guide - Latest News

Looking for a unique way to spend your weekend? Head to Abu Dhabi’s Al Quaa Desert on Saturday, June 21, 2025, for an unforgettable stargazing event — and yes, transport is available from Dubai. Al Quaa is one of the darkest sky spots in the UAE, which means it offers some of the clearest views of the Milky Way. On this special night, experts from Dubai Astronomy Group will guide participants through a fully immersive session, complete with storytelling, sky mapping, and astrophotography.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dubai Astronomy Group (@dubaiastronomy) The...

A big change is on the horizon for travellers in and around the Gulf. A new unified visa — officially called the GCC Grand Tours Visa — is expected to launch soon, making it easier to explore the entire Gulf region on a single application. While an exact launch date has not yet been confirmed, the new process is anticipated to be available sometime this year. Approved in 2023 and now in its final planning stages, the visa will grant access to: United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Bahrain Kuwait Oman Qatar Once launched, the GCC Grand Tours Visa will simplify...

There’s a fresh chapter ahead for one of Dubai’s most recognisable old landmarks. The former Dubai Zoo site in Jumeirah 1 is being transformed into a low-rise residential and lifestyle destination, with construction expected to begin soon. The new project, led by developer Shamal, will feature 90 residential units and aims to blend heritage with modern aesthetics. Clean architectural lines and natural materials will define the look and feel of the community, with the residences entering Dubai’s residential leasing market.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shamal Holding (@shamalholding) The Dubai Zoo closed in...

International Yoga Day is getting a fluffy twist in Abu Dhabi this year. Puppy yoga is back on Saadiyat Island, bringing together light movement, playful pups, and a stunning beachfront setting for a wholesome wellness event. The experience will take place at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort on Saturday, June 21, offering three free sessions open to the community. Each session includes light yoga stretches with a side of puppy interaction. As you flow through your poses, expect wagging tails, soft paws, and plenty of surprise cuddles. Expect a relaxed, welcoming vibe – this event is as much about joy and...

Gymkhana, one of the most celebrated Indian restaurants in the world, is preparing to open its first UAE location in Dubai’s DIFC. Known for blending classic Indian flavours with refined presentation, this marks the restaurant’s third major destination, following London and Riyadh. Gymkhana made its debut in London in 2013 and quickly earned a MICHELIN Star, thanks to its ambitious take on traditional Indian cuisine and elegant dining experience. In 2021, the restaurant made a temporary appearance in Riyadh as part of Riyadh Season. Its popularity led to a permanent outpost in the Saudi capital in 2023. Now, it's Dubai’s...

Doha’s luxury hospitality scene just got even more impressive. Rosewood Doha is the latest five-star addition to the Qatari capital, officially opening its doors on July 15 in the city’s modern Lusail district. Bookings are now open, and the property promises a stay that blends Qatari tradition with global standards of comfort and design. Rosewood Doha enjoys a strategic spot close to the Lusail Marina promenade and key cultural sites. The hotel features 155 rooms and suites, each with panoramic views of either Lusail City or the Arabian Gulf.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared...

Big news for beauty lovers: Ulta Beauty, the popular US-based cosmetics chain, is officially making its debut in the Middle East, and Dubai is first on the list. Retail giant Alshaya Group has confirmed that the first Ulta Beauty store in the region will open its doors at Mall of the Emirates by the end of 2025. Known for its diverse lineup of beauty brands — from skincare and haircare to cult makeup favourites — Ulta Beauty is a go-to destination in the US for shoppers looking to stock up on both high-end and affordable products.     View this...

Looking for the perfect family outing this summer? Look no further than the Bahrain Summer Toy Festival 2025 at Exhibition World Bahrain! Running from July 5th to August 1st, this spectacular event promises a summer filled with joy, excitement, and endless entertainment. The Bahrain Summer Toy Festival is one of the biggest entertainment events in the region, bringing together some of the world's top international toy and entertainment brands. It's a unique gathering that offers something for everyone. A World of Interactive Fun Prepare yourself for over ten exciting and unique corners, each filled with distinctive and interactive activities. Imagine...

After years of dormancy, Palm Jebel Ali is officially back in the spotlight. Originally launched in 2002 and paused during the 2008 global financial crisis, this man-made island is now regaining momentum, with major construction contracts awarded and plans for luxury living, leisure, and tourism firmly in motion. Set to be twice the size of Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali spans 13.4 kilometres of land with 10.5 million square metres of development potential. Once complete, it will offer 110 kilometres of coastline and 91 kilometres of beachfront, eventually housing 35,000 families. Highlights of what’s planned include: 80 hotels and resorts...

Just as fans were getting ready for Mary J. Blige’s highly anticipated return to Dubai, news broke that the concert — originally scheduled for Tuesday, June 24 — has been cancelled. The performance was set to be a major moment, marking over a decade since the iconic R&B star last took the stage for a full concert in the UAE. While the exact reasons for the cancellation have not been disclosed, the event has quietly been removed from the Coca-Cola Arena’s official calendar. Although the disappointment is real, there’s still hope that Mary J. Blige will make her way back...