Ultimate Travel Guide - Latest News

A brand-new play park for kids, Leo and Loona, has arrived at Yas Mall. This massive space on the Mall’s 1st floor is packed with 30+ attractions spread across seven themed zones. Kids can zoom down glow-in-the-dark slides, race on go-karts, dive into creative workshops, and even pretend to be supermarket managers — though parents might have to explain why they can’t take home an imaginary shopping cart full of toy groceries! Leo and Loona isn’t just about running around — it’s a place where kids can explore their imagination. Young movie fans can enjoy screenings in the “Show and...

Oman’s Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs (MERA) has announced travel restrictions to Mecca during the 2025 Hajj season. From April 29 to June 11, 2025, Omani citizens will not be allowed to enter or stay in Mecca unless they are official Hajj pilgrims. This decision follows guidelines from Saudi authorities, who enforce similar rules each year to manage the huge number of worshippers during Hajj. The aim is to ensure a safe and well-organized pilgrimage. MERA has urged all Omani citizens to follow these regulations carefully and avoid unnecessary travel to Mecca during this period. These measures are part...

Step into a world where high fashion meets fine dining at Blume in Dubai Mall. Located in Fashion Avenue, this unique restaurant offers a stylish experience inside a train carriage-inspired setting, complete with Christian Dior’s elegant touch. Already a popular spot in Dubai Marina’s District 8, Blume’s new Dubai Mall location provides a choice of seating: a lavish indoor area, a scenic outdoor terrace, or the standout train carriage section.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by UAE BLOG 🇦🇪 (@prjuae) The indoor space is grand, featuring high ceilings, bold patterns, and expansive windows. Outdoors,...

The UAE has introduced new rules regarding pensions and social insurance for Emirati mothers, allowing them to take leave to care for their children while maintaining their end-of-service benefits. The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) clarified that under Federal Law No. 57 of 2023, mothers can take up to three years off, provided they continue making monthly contributions. This law aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to support and empower women across various sectors, including education, economy, and politics. The nation has long recognized the essential role of women in its development, a vision championed by the late...

Dubai has achieved a significant milestone by securing a spot among the world's top five cities for financial technology (fintech), as highlighted in the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI) published by Z/Yen, a London-based commercial think-tank and consultancy specializing in finance, technology, and the voluntary sectors. The index evaluates 119 financial hubs based on expert assessments and key industry data. For the first time, the city has been ranked as one of only eight cities worldwide recognized as a financial powerhouse with broad and deep capabilities across all areas of the finance sector. It joins leading global financial centres...

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has expanded its instalment payment service to all its digital channels, making it easier for residents to manage their payments. Now, customers can use Tabby to pay for various RTA services in instalments through the RTA website, RTA app, and nol Pay app. Previously available only via smart kiosks, the instalment plan now covers over 170 services, allowing payments to be split into up to four instalments. Services that can be paid in instalments include: Traffic fines Vehicle registration renewal Driving licence renewal Parking fees Salik recharge Vehicle number plate purchases This initiative aligns...

The Dubai Government has confirmed the official public holidays for Eid Al Fitr 2025. Public sector employees will have time off for the first three days of Shawwal, the Islamic month that follows Ramadan. If Ramadan lasts 30 days, an extra day off will be added, making the break even longer. This means that government workers in Dubai are expected to have Sunday, March 30, to Wednesday, April 2, as official holidays. However, these dates depend on the moon sighting and will be officially confirmed closer to the time. Earlier this week, the UAE government outlined Eid Al Fitr holiday...

Get ready for an unforgettable night as Natalie Imbruglia, the Australian-British pop sensation, takes the stage at Dubai Opera on 23rd August! Best known for her iconic hit Torn, Natalie has captivated audiences worldwide with her heartfelt lyrics, mesmerizing voice, and timeless songs. Now, she’s bringing her magic to Dubai for one special evening. Natalie rose to fame in the late '90s, quickly becoming a global star with her debut album Left of the Middle. Her breakout single Torn remains one of the most beloved songs of all time, and fans can expect to hear it live along with other...

Get ready, Abu Dhabi! Enrique Iglesias is making his way to the Etihad Arena for an electrifying performance on November 1st, 2025. Known for his passionate vocals, chart-topping hits, and incredible stage presence, Enrique promises an unforgettable night of music and energy that fans won’t want to miss. With a career spanning decades, Enrique has won the hearts of millions worldwide. From romantic ballads to dancefloor anthems, his music transcends generations. Fans can look forward to singing along to hits like Bailando, Hero, Tonight (I’m Lovin’ You), Escape, and many more. Enrique is known for his high-energy concerts, where he...

Abu Dhabi’s art scene continues to grow, offering residents and visitors more opportunities to engage with creative works. The Bassam Freiha Art Foundation has introduced two new exhibitions featuring the work of Italian artist Stefano Simontacchi. These exhibitions, running until August 31 on Saadiyat Island, explore themes of perception, energy, and human connection. What’s New on Display at Bassam Freiha Art Foundation? The first exhibition, Project Oneness, takes visitors through three interconnected rooms. The journey begins with an exploration of duality and humanity’s connection to the universe. Moving forward, light, movement, and color create an immersive experience, leading to a...