Discover all the fun things to do

The 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing is set to take place from February 26 to 28 at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). While the first day is closed to the public, fans can attend the final two days to watch their favorite drivers hit the track. Beyond the on-track action, there’s plenty of entertainment to enjoy, making it a great event for motorsport fans and families. Here’s everything you need to know about the Bahrain F1 testing schedule, driver lineup, and tickets. What Happens During F1 Pre-Season Testing? F1 testing is a crucial part of the season preparation. Bahrain is...

Ramadan began in the UAE on February 18, bringing changes to daily life across the country. In Sharjah, the Municipality has announced that public parking will be free on Fridays throughout the holy month. This does not apply to smart parking areas or zones marked with blue instruction signs. These spaces will continue to charge fees every day of the week, including Fridays and public holidays. Abu Dhabi and Dubai have also introduced revised parking and toll gate timings. If you’re planning to drive there during Ramadan, it’s a good idea to check the updated schedules in advance. If you’re...

The legendary German festival Oktoberfest has now become a global party, and Dubai is not missing out. Giant pretzels, bratwursts, flowing hops... If you're craving for some serious Bavarian fun, here’s where to catch the Oktoberfest spirit in the city. Oktoberfest in Ernst Biergarten Ernst Biergarten is going all out for Oktoberfest. From mid-September to late October, every Thursday to Sunday, the bar will host Bavarian-themed fun, including a specially brewed hops just for the occasion. Weekends come with options like a German-style brunch on Saturdays for AED 300 with free-flowing drinks and endless pretzels, or a hearty Sunday roast...

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant shake-up in its retail landscape. A new regulation bans small grocery stores (baqalas) and kiosks from selling a specific list of products, including tobacco, fresh produce, meat, and dates, as part of a broader effort to streamline and formalise the country’s retail sector. The directive, issued by Majed Al Hogail, Minister of Municipalities and Housing, is effective immediately. However, existing small grocers will have six months to adjust and comply with the new requirements. Products Now Banned from Sale in Small Grocery Stores: Regular and electronic cigarettes Shisha products Fruits and vegetables Dates Meat...

Layali Diriyah — “Diriyah Nights” — is back in 2025, and it’s more spectacular than ever! Now in its fourth year, this amazing outdoor festival brings the historic heart of Diriyah to life with a dazzling mix of lights, music, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences. What to Expect at Layali Diriyah 2025 Stroll beneath palm trees lit up with shimmering lights, and explore a lively scene filled with amazing food, shopping, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re here for the food, the entertainment, or the heritage, there’s something for everyone. Delicious dining: Visitors have a choice between six cafes and...

Dubai is now home to an exciting new luxury cruise experience as Resorts World One embarks on its inaugural Arabian Gulf season. Starting November 1, 2024, Resorts World Cruises will set sail from Mina Port Rashid in Dubai, offering locals and tourists an immersive, entertainment-rich escape across the region. With destinations including Sir Bani Yas Island, Oman’s Khasab and Muscat, and Qatar’s vibrant capital, Doha, the cruises promise a blend of culture, relaxation, and fun that redefines travel in the Gulf.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Resorts World Cruises (@resortsworldcruises) Explore Top Destinations...

Starting Friday, July 25, banks in the United Arab Emirates will begin phasing out one-time passwords (OTPs) that are currently sent by SMS and email. The shift is part of a gradual security update led by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE). OTPs are short security codes sent to your phone or inbox. They're used to approve online payments, including things like shopping or QR-code transactions when dining out. This won’t happen overnight — the rollout is gradual and expected to be completed by March 2026 across all banks in the country. But the UAE’s banking system is moving...

The UAE has made significant progress in the World Happiness Index 2025, published by Gallup. It now ranks 21st globally, surpassing countries like the US, UK, France, Germany, and Singapore, as well as all Arab nations. Gallup’s report attributes the UAE’s strong performance to economic stability, strong social support, and high-quality infrastructure. The country’s growing job market, positive economic outlook, and high living standards have boosted residents' overall happiness and well-being. Other UAE Rankings for 2025: 12th place for trust in people (based on returning lost wallets) 16th place worldwide for charitable donations 19th place for volunteering time 67th place...

Abu Dhabi is quickly becoming a magnet for major musicals, and something really spooky coming to the capital. After the buzz around Mamma Mia! set to light up the city in June 2025 — complete with a glam brunch option — it's been confirmed that BEETLEJUICE The Musical will be making its debut in the UAE capital this November. The clues were coming via Etihad Arena's social media in the past weeks, and now, it's official: Beetlejuice fans, it’s showtime! And time to get your tickets to one of the most anticipated performances of this autumn! Make sure to clear...

If you're coming to Dubai and want to visit Global Village in October, there's a special treat waiting for you! To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the popular destination announced that all visitors with a special stamp on their visa or passport will enjoy free entry to the park. The Season 30 stamp will be placed on visas issued from Dubai and will also appear on passports of those arriving in the UAE. Free entry offer is for one-time use only and will be available for 10 days, starting from Global Village opening date on October 15. The stamp must be...