Discover all the fun things to do

Sharjah has just been selected to host one of the world’s most important gatherings dedicated to children’s books, and it’s a big moment for the UAE. In 2030, the emirate will welcome the 42nd International Congress of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). The UAE will become the first country in the Arab world to host this global meeting. IBBY has been active since 1953 and is headquartered in Switzerland. The organisation connects professionals across countries to support children’s books, improve access to reading, and encourage collaboration between writers, publishers, educators, and cultural institutions. The congress takes...

A week-long break is coming up in Qatar, as the country announces the Eid Al Fitr 2026 holiday dates for the public sector. According to a statement from the Amiri Diwan, the holiday will begin on March 17 and continue until March 23, 2026. Public sector employees across ministries, authorities, and other government bodies will be off during this period, with work set to resume on March 24. For many people working in Qatar’s public sector, the announcement means a full week-long break during Eid Al Fitr. These dates apply to ministries and public institutions across the country. The schedule...

Oman has officially announced the Eid Al Fitr 2025 holiday schedule, with a break that could last either five or nine days — depending on the moon sighting. When is the Eid Al Fitr holiday in Oman? The Eid Al Fitr holiday will start on Saturday, March 29, 2025, for both public and private sector employees. But the return-to-work date depends on when Eid is officially observed: If Eid falls on March 30, work resumes on Wednesday, April 2. If Eid is confirmed for March 31, the holiday extends until Sunday, April 6. The holiday applies to both government and...

Dubai’s coffee scene just got a Japanese twist. Say hello to Kurasu, the Kyoto-born café that’s just opened its doors at Dar Wasl Mall — and it’s already making waves. Visitors are raving about their dirty matcha and matcha latte expresso. And there so much more to explore for coffee lovers! Kurasu isn’t just another trendy place. It started back in 2013 as an online store in Kyoto, selling beautiful homeware. Over time, it evolved into a coffee hub, now with cafés across Japan. Their Dubai branch is the first in the Middle East, and yes, people are already lining...

If Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) feels a little different lately, it's because there's something big in the works. The lakes that the area is known for have been drained, and while that may seem odd at first, it’s all part of a new development called Bay360. The project will center around a 700m promenade along the water, perfect for casual strolls, outdoor dining, and hanging out with friends. Planned as a go-to waterfront community, it will offer a place where people can stop by for a coffee, have lunch meetings, run errands, or enjoy a relaxed evening after work. Currently...

Riverland Dubai is turning into a festive wonderland with Sandy’s Candy World Spectacular Christmas Parade, and it's set to sprinkle cheer all month long. Up till Christmas, from Wednesday to Sunday, 9 p.m. sharp, the lively parade will wind its way through the heart of Riverland Dubai, transforming the area into a magical Christmas extravaganza. But that's not the only treat in store for you at Dubai Parks and Resorts. A brand-new laser show will also be taking place every Wednesday to Sunday at 7.30 p.m., 8.30 p.m., and 9.30 p.m. Little ones can also meet Santa at Viva Ristorante...

If you’re looking for a car ride like never before, head to the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve for a drive-through photo exhibition that’s sure to impress. From January 30 to February 8, this unique outdoor event lets you explore the desert from the comfort of your own car. Al Marmoom: The Living Wild transforms the UAE’s largest unfenced nature reserve into an open-air gallery that celebrates the desert’s wildlife and natural beauty. It will guide you through a series of 24 photographs by His Excellency Ali Khalifa bin Thalith, capturing the reserve’s wild inhabitant. View this post on Instagram...

Formula Run is back at Ferrari World Yas Island this Sunday, June 15, and it’s more than just another early-morning race. Now in celebration of the park’s 15th anniversary, this year’s edition features updated race formats and a distinctive route through one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic destinations. Participants will run along an indoor air-conditioned track that winds through Ferrari World’s landmark attractions, stretches into Yas Mall, and returns via the Italian Village. The event offers three distance options: 2.5 km 5 km 10 km All runners will receive a custom medal and limited-edition Formula Run T-shirt. Check-in starts at...

Ever watched an artist at work and couldn’t look away? At Taiga, that’s exactly what dinner feels like, with the chef creating each dish in front of you. The new spot is opening soon on Bluewaters Dubai, bringing one of the more interesting dining concepts. Taiga offers a teppanyaki omakase experience, where the chef cooks each course on a hot grill in front of you and decides what to serve. Like any good piece of art, it starts with the right materials. The kitchen at Taiga brings in seafood from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market five times a week and works with...

Big news for thrill-seekers in Bahrain! Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park is getting a massive glow-up. Al Areen Leisure and Tourism Co. has just revealed plans for a USD 30 million redevelopment and rebranding, turning the well-loved destination into Janat Dilmun. The project will feature more than just a name change. It promises a full upgrade of the park’s façade, rides, and facilities, bringing a new level of comfort and creativity to one of Bahrain’s most popular family spots. Phase one of the transformation will introduce new attractions, including Hive 35 and RideHouse. View this post on Instagram A...