Discover all the fun things to do

Great news for gaming fans in the UAE! Play971 is now live, and it’s a game-changer. This new platform is the first of its kind to be fully licensed by the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), making it the official place for online gaming and sports betting in the country. Operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, Play971 offers a wide variety of options, from classic casino games like slots, blackjack, and roulette to sports betting on popular events such as football, cricket, and tennis. If you’re into eSports or fantasy games, this platform’s got you covered too. It’s...

As a Dubai resident, you’ve probably experienced the intense summer heat on your car. That burning hot seatbelt? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has just introduced a new permit service for parking shades in residential neighborhoods, making it easier to protect your vehicle from the scorching sun. The new permit service lets you apply directly via RTA’s website. No more waiting around for approvals from different places. But before you start installing that parking shade, check out these rules: You must use an approved contractor Parking shades can only be installed in designated spaces The...

If you're looking for something fun and educational to do with the family, Expo City Dubai has got you covered with Guardians of Water Festival. This indoor event is all about celebrating our planet’s most precious resource — water. Running over two weekends, August 30-31 and September 6-7, the festival will spark curiosity and inspire action through immersive experiences that both kids and adults can enjoy. The event takes place at Terra, the Sustainability Pavilion at Expo City. This unique venue will be the backdrop for a range of activities focused on water conservation, including storytelling, workshops, and interactive displays....

Next week, Riyadh will host one of the world’s most iconic operas. Carmen will make its debut in the city on September 4-6, 2025. This classic piece by French composer Georges Bizet will be staged at King Fahad Cultural Centre, marking an exciting addition to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. First performed in 1875, the opera tells the story of a passionate and intense love triangle. The plot follows Carmen, a free-spirited factory worker, and Don José, a soldier whose life she disrupts with her charm. As their relationship spirals into jealousy and betrayal, the drama builds to a powerful...

If you enjoy exploring outdoor spots around Riyadh, here’s one to keep in mind. Wadi Umm Qasr Walkway is now open on Aishah Bint Abi Bakr Road in Al Uraija Al Wusta, so if you feel like going for a family walk in the evening or a bike ride, you now know the location. The area is open to everyone, and entry is free, so you can simply stop by whenever you’re in the mood for some air. Some people come for a relaxed stroll, others pick up the pace, and kids often bring their bikes or scooters along. The...

A day at the zoo is back on the list. Riyadh Zoo has reopened after maintenance, and you can once again explore its animal zones and get close to wildlife. If you’re planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know about 2026 timings, zones, and the animals you can see there. Opening hours of Riyadh Zoo in 2026 Monday to Saturday: 8:30 AM until sunset Friday: 1 PM until sunset Sunday: Closed Gates close at 4:30 PM What's Inside Riyadh Zoo You’ll move through different themed areas, each with its own animals and experiences: Go to Almalaz Bay where...

A new all-American concept is making its way to Dubai this August. Rodeo Drive is opening at the Oaks Hotel, Ibn Battuta Gate, bringing with it a mix of live-fire cooking, games, music, and family-friendly zones. Split into six areas, Rodeo Drive is part restaurant, part entertainment hub. Expect classic American character paired with a modern layout designed by Hiren Ganatra. From leather booths and timber decor in the Wild West Grill to a neon-lit arcade, cage-style bull-riding zone, and even a hidden speakeasy behind a bookshelf, the venue is built to deliver variety.     View this post on...

Dubai is taking a big step closer to launching its flying taxi service in 2026, and now we know exactly where you’ll be able to catch a ride. First location of vertiports have been announced. They will form the core of the city's new transportation network, connecting key destinations and giving residents and tourists more choice when it comes to getting around. Here's where you can soon board a flying taxi in the city: near Dubai International Airport (DXB), which will be the main hub for aerial taxis at Zabeel Dubai Mall parking. In the heart of downtown, right by...

If you’re looking to get fit, Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 is here with free workouts across the city until the end of November. Whether you're into boxing, yoga, or a good old cardio session, there’s something for everyone. Check out some of the free classes you can join this month. Spaces are limited, so be sure to check availability and sign up directly with the venue. Friday, November 7: Boxing Fundamentals at Zabeel Park (5 PM, 8 PM, 10:15 PM). Learn the basics of boxing from Dennis Okello in this 30-minute session. Sign up here. Saturday, November 8: Run and...

If your wardrobe is full but you still feel like you have nothing to wear, or you’ve been meaning to clear out designer pieces you barely use, this might be for you. Yalla BB is a Dubai-based app created specifically for people who want to buy and sell second-hand fashion in the country. Instead of posting in random places and managing conversations across different chats, you can handle everything inside one platform. You upload your item with photos and details, set your price, and chat with interested buyers directly in the app. If you’re shopping, you scroll through listings, see...