Ultimate Travel Guide - Latest News

Abu Dhabi residents could face fines of up to AED 4,000 for installing satellite dishes in unapproved locations, as authorities continue to tighten regulations aimed at preserving the emirate’s urban appearance and safety standards. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has reiterated that multiple satellite dishes on building facades, rooftops, and balconies violate Law No. 2 of 2012, which covers public cleanliness and urban planning regulations. The law aims to maintain architectural aesthetics, prevent safety hazards, and ensure a visually clean cityscape. Here’s how the fines are structured: First violation: AED 1,000 Second violation: AED 2,000 Third and repeated...

As the summer heat sets in across the UAE, indoor escapes become an increasingly appealing option. What better way to stay cool while immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the Emirates than visiting one of the country’s free-entry museums? Whether you're a fan of art, history, or unique experiences, these museums offer an enriching way to spend time indoors. Let’s take a look at some must-visit spots offering free access. Free Museums in Abu Dhabi 1. Bassam Freiha Art Foundation Located in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation is a cultural hub for those interested...

Dubai’s beloved family entertainment destination, Global Village, has announced a new summer closure date for the 2025 season. Initially set to close on Sunday, May 11, the park will now remain open for an additional week, officially closing its doors for season 29 on Sunday, May 18, 2025. This gives visitors an extra opportunity to enjoy the park’s attractions before it shuts down for the summer months, typically reopening in October when the weather begins to cool down. Final Week of Special Offers and Promotions at Global Village Global Village has extended some of its exciting promotions for the last...

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has released the official calendar for the upcoming Umrah season, detailing key dates and regulations for international pilgrims planning to perform the pilgrimage during the Islamic year 1447, corresponding to 2025–2026 in the Gregorian calendar. Umrah Start and Visa Schedule International pilgrims will be allowed to begin performing Umrah from June 11, 2025. Visa issuance will start a day earlier on June 10, 2025 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1446), giving pilgrims and service providers a clear timeline for preparation. Service Agreement Deadlines To streamline the process, all service agreements between Umrah companies and foreign...

Riyadh is preparing for a significant leap forward in transport innovation, with self-driving taxis set to appear on city roads in the near future. The announcement was made by Dr. Omaimah Bamasag, Deputy of Transport Enablement at the Transport General Authority (TGA), as part of the Kingdom’s broader plan to create a smarter, more sustainable transport network. This move won’t be limited to Riyadh. Five other Saudi cities are also expected to join the rollout of autonomous vehicles, which will include not only taxis, but also self-driving trucks, passenger vehicles, and drones. The initiative is being driven by the Future...

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially completed all five phases of the Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project on the Bur Dubai side, marking a major improvement in the city’s infrastructure and marking a dramatic drop in travel time. What once took 80 minutes now takes just 12, according to the RTA. The final step in the project involved the inauguration of the fifth bridge as part of the Sheikh Rashid Road and Al Mina Street intersection development. With this, drivers can now enjoy smooth traffic flow from Al Garhoud Bridge all the way to Port Rashid, via Infinity...

Staying connected on the move just got easier in Ras Al Khaimah. The emirate’s Transport Authority has officially launched free high-speed WiFi on all public buses, covering both local and intercity routes. The move is part of a broader plan to modernise public transport and boost passenger experience through digital upgrades. Whether you're commuting within the emirate or heading to another city, you’ll now be able to browse, stream, or get work done with seamless internet access on board. According to Ismail Hassan Al Baloushi, Director General of Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority, the goal is to support smart mobility...

Dubai is gearing up to make self-driving taxis a reality by the first quarter of 2026, and the move could transform the way the city gets around. As plans continue to unfold, fleet operators like Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) are already looking ahead to the operational and financial benefits of autonomous electric vehicles. One major innovation behind this rollout is swappable battery technology. Rather than spending time plugged into a charger, these autonomous taxis will be able to head to a station, swap out their depleted battery, and be back on the road in minutes. This drastically reduces downtime and...

Dubai’s next big move in aviation is taking shape, and it’s set to change the way we travel. Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is being developed into what could soon become the largest and most advanced airport in the world. The first phase alone is worth around USD 35 billion and is packed with groundbreaking features aimed at creating a smooth, tech-driven travel experience. Here’s a look at seven of the most exciting innovations being built into the new DWC terminal: 1. No Immigration or Check-In Counters Say goodbye to waiting in long lines. Al Maktoum International will operate with...

Dubai’s property scene is known for pushing boundaries, and the latest addition has a distinctly sporty twist. Chelsea Football Club has teamed up with DAMAC Properties to launch a new football-themed branded residential project in Dubai Maritime City. Titled Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, the development brings together high-end living with a bold sports identity — and yes, it’s Chelsea blue throughout. The project includes six towers, each rising 130 metres high, offering a total of 1,400 sea-facing units with expansive views of the Arabian Gulf. But it’s more than just the skyline views that make this project stand out. Every...