Ultimate Travel Guide - Latest News

A new digital convenience is coming to petrol pumps across Dubai. Salik, the familiar name behind toll gate payments, is expanding its scope. In a soon-to-launch partnership with ENOC petrol stations, motorists will be able to pay for fuel using their Salik e-wallet — no PINs, no cards, no physical interaction at the terminal required. Here’s how it works. The system is powered by Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology. Once you drive into a participating ENOC station: Cameras scan your vehicle’s licence plate The system identifies your Salik account The fuel amount is automatically deducted from your e-wallet ENOC...

Dubai’s wellness scene is set to welcome an ambitious new name. Sacra, a three-level bathhouse and spa, will open in Jumeirah along Beach Road by the end of 2025 — promising a holistic retreat that blends ancient rituals with modern wellness design. This is not your typical spa. Brought to life by Bulldozer Group — known for its upscale dining spots like Gaia (#35 in MENA's 50 Best Restaurant list in 2024) and China Tang — Sacra marks the group’s first foray into wellness. Their approach is a curated sanctuary where wellness is about more than just relaxation. The creators...

If you’ve been counting down the days until MAMMA MIA! The Musical arrives in Abu Dhabi, here’s something to get you in the mood: a one-day-only Mamma Mia-themed beach party is set to take over Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa this Saturday, May 17, 2025. Running from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, the event promises a full dose of disco beats, sandy dancing, and plenty of classic ABBA hits — all timed perfectly with a golden Abu Dhabi sunset.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Fahid Beach Club By Barbossa (@fahidbcbybarbossa) This beachside celebration...

The United Arab Emirates has secured the 15th spot globally and the top position regionally in the 2025 Human Development Index (HDI), released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) — a notable rise of 11 places from its previous ranking in 2021–22. This result places the UAE ahead of several major economies, including Canada, the United States, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. It is also the only Arab country featured in the top 20, underlining the country's ongoing focus on human development as a national priority. UAE's Stats from the 2025 UN Human Development Index Report: HDI score: 0.94...

If you regularly drive to Dubai Mall, there’s an important update you’ll want to know. As part of the mall’s major expansion project, the Grand Parking facility will temporarily close starting June. Located on the Financial Street side, Grand Parking is the smallest of the mall’s four car parks, offering 694 parking slots. The closure is linked to preparations for the launch of New Grand Drive, set to open in August. During this period, Fashion Parking, Cinema Parking, and Zabeel Parking will continue operating as usual, so you’ll still have multiple options when visiting the world’s busiest shopping destination.  ...

Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue is about to welcome a new concept that brings food and farming under one roof. The Growhouse, a café and indoor farm developed by the team behind One Life, is preparing to open its doors in the creative district — and it’s shaping up to be a thoughtful addition to the city’s sustainability scene. Designed with industrial chic in mind, The Growhouse takes inspiration from Al Quoz’s industrial roots, pairing exposed piping and high ceilings with neutral tones and vibrant greenery. The space is structured for community, with communal tables built into its layout to encourage group...

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...