Discover all the fun things to do

As Ramadan 2026 approaches, get ready for some changes to your regular work schedule! Whether you're in the public or private sector, the UAE government has announced working hours that will be in effect during the holy month. For those working in the public sector, the official working hours are: Monday to Thursday: employees will work from 9 AM to 2:30 PM on Fridays, the hours are shortened to 9 AM to 12 PM These changes offer more time for reflection, prayer, and spending time with family. Of course, certain roles may require different schedules based on their nature. In...

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and The Pearl-Qatar is making sure you’re feeling that magic with Live the Island Life – Winter Edition! Until December 31, Qanat Quartier and Porto Arabia are buzzing with festive cheer, perfect for a night out with the whole family. Catch a variety of live performances, from stage shows to roaming acts, and let the kids enjoy face painting and balloon twisting. There’s food galore with plenty of food carts to keep you fueled as you explore. It’s a cozy, lively atmosphere that’s bound to put a smile on everyone’s face. Drop...

Dubai’s vibrant entertainment scene is about to reach new heights with the unveiling of New Covent Garden, a premier performing arts venue at the heart of the Mall of the Emirates. Designed to bring world-class live shows to Dubai, this exciting cultural hub will house a 575-seat theater, ten dance and rehearsal studios, and an on-site restaurant. Slated to open in early 2025, New Covent Garden will attract diverse performances, including West End musicals, Arabic drama, ballet, comedy, opera, family shows, and concerts. This ambitious project is spearheaded by industry icons Lisa Scott-Lee, of Steps fame, and creative director Johnny...

Most weekends start to feel the same after a while. If you feel like doing something different without going far, Al Thakira Mangroves are worth it. You’ll find this hidden gem in Qatar about 17 km northeast of Al Khor. Just follow the road out, then continue over sand until the water and mangroves come into view. Al Thakira Mangroves are one of the oldest and largest forests in the country, with trees growing right in saltwater. The area was declared a protected reserve in 2006 because of its marine life. It’s one of those natural places in Qatar that...

Air India Express is celebrating India's 79th Independence Anniversary with an incredible Freedom Sale, offering huge discounts on both domestic and international flights. This exciting sale covers 5 million seats, so there are plenty of opportunities to score affordable tickets for travel from the UAE to India and other destinations. Bookings are open until August 15, 2025. You can book through Air India Express’ website, mobile app, or any other major booking channels. For this Freedom Sale, the airline is offering affordable fares for both domestic and international flights: INR 1,279 (around AED 53.5) for tickets within country INR 4,279...

Dubai’s man-made coastline keeps growing. Alongside Palm Jumeirah, The World Islands, and the soon-to-launch Palm Jebel Ali, the city is adding a new name to the list: Naïa Island. The project is developed by Shamal Holding and will be built just off Jumeirah Beach, between Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah 3. Naïa Island will include low-rise buildings only, so views of the city’s skyline will stay visible from across the island. Early visuals show a focus on green landscapes, open space, and unobstructed sea views. One of the key components of the development is the arrival of the region’s first Cheval...

Travelers passing through Saudi Arabia will soon have a new shopping experience! The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has launched Al Waha Duty-Free, the country’s first locally owned duty-free retail operator. This move aims to expand travel shopping options while contributing to the national economy. Al Waha Duty-Free will open stores in major airports and is also planning to extend its presence to land borders, seaports, and even inflight shopping. Passengers can expect a mix of high-end international brands and premium Saudi products, making their travel experience more convenient and exciting. This launch is part of Saudi Arabia’s larger vision to...

Sharjah’s well-known Safeer Mall is getting a new name and a major upgrade. Now under the temporary name "Mark & Save Mall," the shopping center is expected to reopen in 2026 after a complete makeover. Western International Group (WIG), which recently took over the property from the Safeer Group, announced that the renovation will take about 18 months. During this time, the building will be brought up to modern standards, both inside and out, and all work will follow the latest safety and government guidelines. The mall, originally opened in 2005, will not be torn down completely, but much of...

If you're looking for a new place to try in the Saudi capital, you'll want to check out WADI Riyadh, the latest addition to Laysen Valley. This new restaurant specializes in Saudi fusion cuisine, offering a modern twist on traditional flavors. Wadi, which takes its name from the Arabic word for "river", combines high-quality ingredients with a luxurious dining experience to create something truly special. Located in a bustling area near Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter — this place offers not only great food but a full range of dining, retail, and office spaces, making it a prime spot to visit. View...

If you’re a regular on Dubai’s Red Line, don’t be surprised when Jebel Ali Metro Station suddenly looks a little different — it’s getting a new name. Starting July 2025, Jebel Ali Metro Station will officially become National Paints Metro Station, following a 10-year naming rights agreement announced by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Located in the heart of the Jebel Ali Free Zone, the station serves one of Dubai’s busiest and fastest-developing industrial districts. The rebranding reflects the RTA’s ongoing partnerships with local companies to rename stations across the network. The transition won’t happen overnight. From July through...