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As February 22, 2025, approaches, Saudi Arabia gears up to commemorate its first public holiday of the year — Saudi Founding Day. This day honors the establishment of the First Saudi State in Diriyah in 1727, marking nearly three centuries of rich history and cultural legacy. What Is Saudi Founding Day? Saudi Founding Day celebrates the creation of the First Saudi State by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. Officially introduced in 2022, the holiday was established through a royal decree by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. It recognizes the deep historical, cultural, and civilizational roots of Saudi Arabia....

Mark your calendars — January 17 marks the debut of The Hub by Social, a dynamic new food hall and community space in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City. Nestled in the heart of Masdar Park, The Hub promises a unique blend of global cuisines, entertainment, and sustainability-focused initiatives, making it more than just a dining destination. Developed in collaboration between Masdar City and Social Distrikt, The Hub stands out with its theme of “Socialize Sustainably.” It’s a vibrant meeting place that combines food, culture, and eco-consciousness, offering a welcoming environment for families, food enthusiasts, and professionals. Beyond its delicious menu offerings,...

Residents of the UAE can now bring friends and relatives to visit the country for up to 90 days through a streamlined online service. Offered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, the Friend or Relative Visa simplifies the process, allowing for flexible travel plans and durations. Applying for the UAE Friend or Relative Visa Online: A Step-by-Step Guide The application process is straightforward: Log in to the authority’s website or smart app using your digital identity. Select the visa type and duration that best fits your needs. Carefully verify all the details before submitting your...

Starting January 1, 2025, UAE residents can look forward to a potential boost in their work-life balance. A significant change to public holiday rules means that if a holiday falls on a weekend, it can now be transferred to a weekday, ensuring you don’t miss out on a well-deserved break. Public holidays in the UAE often align with the Islamic Hijri calendar, leading to dates that shift each year. Previously, if these holidays fell on a Friday or Saturday (weekend days for most workers), no extra time off was given. However, the revised law guarantees that holidays like New Year’s...

The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has announced an exciting step forward in the country's digital transformation: the launch of Google Pay in 2025. This development will bring a new level of convenience and accessibility to the payment landscape in Saudi Arabia. For Android users, this means seamless, contactless payments across stores, apps, and websites with just a tap. Google Wallet will allow users to securely add and manage their payment cards, offering a smoother and more secure shopping experience. While Apple Pay has been available since 2019, Google Pay's introduction will expand the digital payment options for residents, enhancing competition...

Experience the essence of Ramadan at Emirates Park Zoo and Resort, where tradition meets adventure in an enchanting atmosphere. Break your fast under elegantly decorated tents, savoring a delectable Iftar buffet filled with a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes. Unique experience will be available from February 28 until March 28, 2025. Looking to make the evening truly extraordinary? Opt for the VIP Iftar with Animals, starting at 260 AED per person, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience alongside giraffes, elephants, and other fascinating creatures. The festive energy continues with mesmerizing cultural performances, from dazzling Tanoora dances to the soulful...

From January 10 to February 28, 2025, the Al Wathba region in Abu Dhabi will host the second edition of the Al Wathba Dates Festival, a key feature of the Sheikh Zayed Festival. Organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the event celebrates the enduring cultural and agricultural significance of date palms in the UAE. This year’s festival will bring together date enthusiasts, farmers, and traders from around the globe. It will include 12 competitions highlighting date packaging — with and without additives — featuring six...

Dubai has once again proven its global appeal by securing a spot in the top three of Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice: Best of the Best Awards for 2025. This recognition highlights the city's multifaceted charm, admired not only by its residents but also by travelers worldwide. Whether you live in Dubai or are planning a visit, it’s clear the city offers something for everyone. Residents often cite a combination of factors that make Dubai an exceptional place to call home: safety and tolerance for diverse cultures, stunning beaches and year-round sunshine, tax-free income and abundant career opportunities, or a vibrant mix...

Get ready for a vibrant celebration of light, culture, and creativity as the Sharjah Light Festival returns for its 14th edition from 5 to 23 February 2025. Spanning 13 nights, this awe-inspiring event transforms the emirate’s landmarks into glowing canvases of art, blending light displays, projections, and music in captivating harmony. The festival showcases 15 mesmerizing light installations by both local and international artists, set against the backdrop of Sharjah’s architectural gems. Iconic locations like Sharjah Mosque, University City Hall, and Al Majaz Waterfront come alive with colors and patterns inspired by nature, space, and traditional Emirati culture. These breathtaking...

Looking for a unique cultural experience this winter? The 13th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival returns from 31 January to 28 February 2025, hosted at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. This year’s theme, “Memory,” promises a rich tapestry of artistic expression, showcasing over 200 artists from around the globe. What began in 2013 with just 30 emerging artists from Ras Al Khaimah has blossomed into an internationally recognized annual event. Today, the festival serves as a dynamic platform for creativity, connecting artists, authors, and visitors through shared stories and diverse cultural experiences.     View this...