What to do in UAE

If you’ve been wondering whether distance learning is about to end, here’s the latest from UAE authorities. Schools and kindergartens across the country are currently operating remotely, and that continues until April 17. Meanwhile, gradual return to in-person classes is being prepared. Here’s the full update. The Education, Human Resources and Community Development Council confirmed that nurseries, schools, and universities are moving toward in-person learning. Regular classes will resume across all nurseries, kindergartens, and public and private schools on April 20, 2026. Private schools can still use a hybrid rotational model when needed. All educational institutions are also expected to...

If you’re a fan of Korean cinema, this one’s for you. The Korean Film Festival is returning for its ninth edition in the UAE — with screenings lined up in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This year’s theme is “music”, with a curated lineup of films ranging from those with unforgettable original soundtracks to others where music plays a central role.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Korean Cultural Center UAE🇦🇪🇰🇷 (@kcc_uae) Organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the UAE and the Korean Cultural Center, the festival will take place at Manarat...

Three of Meta's biggest apps are getting upgrades. Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp now have Plus subscription plans with extra features and customisation options. Let's take a look at what each plan offers and how much it costs. Instagram Plus and Facebook Plus: Features and Price Instagram remains one of Meta's most popular apps, and the company is putting most of the new features there. So, what do you get if you decide to upgrade your account? Story rewatch statistics Stories that stay up longer than 24 hours Posting to profiles and highlights without appearing in followers' feeds Super Heart animated...

Sharjah drivers now have another reason to pay their traffic fines on time. Authorities have confirmed the continuation of a discount scheme offering up to 35% off traffic fines — but timing is key. If a traffic fine is paid on time, the following discounts apply: 35% discount if paid within 60 days of the violation date 25% discount if paid after 60 days but within one year The discount does not apply to certain serious offences. Here's the list of 40 no-discount traffic violations provided by Sharjah Police. Major Speeding and Signal Violations Exceeding the maximum speed limit by...

If you’ve been craving greenery, calm water, and a break from city traffic, a mangrove trip might be exactly what you need before summer fully begins. The UAE has plenty of quiet spots where you can kayak through mangrove trees, stroll along boardwalks beside turquoise water, and spot birds and sea life Some locations are close enough for a half-day trip from Dubai, so you’ll still make it back for your evening plans. Others will pull you into peace and quiet for the whole day. Ajman Mangroves (45 mins from Dubai) Al Zorah Nature Reserve is one of the easiest...

Dubai has a habit of moving fast, and 2026 doesn’t look any different. From futuristic ways to get around to behind-the-scenes tech changes, here are six impressive things coming to the city that could end up being part of your everyday routine. 1. You’ll Be Able To Travel Between Emirates By Train Passenger trains on Etihad Rail are expected to launch in 2026, turning a freight-only rail network into something everyday travellers can actually use. Once services begin, people will be far less dependent on long drives when moving between emirates. There’s still no exact launch date, but officials confirmed...

Marsana East Beach on Hudayriyat Island has launched something new for summer: night swimming. For the first time in Abu Dhabi, beachgoers can take a swim after sunset, with the beach staying open into the night until the end of September. Equipped with floodlights and lifeguards, the setup allows safe swimming after dark. Comfortable sunbeds and a relaxed atmosphere make it a good option for evening downtime, whether you’re cooling off solo or heading out with friends and family.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Marsana Hudayriyat Island (@marsanahudayriyat) The beach remains popular during...

Parents in Dubai no longer need to visit service centers to get a birth certificate for their newborn. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has launched a fully digital service, making the process faster and more convenient. How to Get Digital Birth Certificate in Dubai Parents can now complete the entire process from home, making it simpler than ever to obtain a birth certificate in Dubai. Here's how it works in 3 simple steps: 1. Hospital Notification: The hospital submits the birth details and required documents electronically. 2. Online Application: Parents complete the application on the DHA website, choose the number...

Barasti, the long-standing favourite in Dubai Marina, is bringing back free access to its beach and pool areas — and it’s sticking around until October 2025. After briefly introducing an entry fee earlier this year, Barasti has dropped charges altogether, with no minimum spend required. The move comes after Barasti’s recent major refresh, which saw upgrades to the pool deck, the addition of hammocks, and 16 premium cabanas for those who want to lounge in style.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Barasti Beach (@barastibeach) Regular cabanas are available for free. VIP cabanas and...

Dubai’s first stargazing event of 2026 is going to be one for the books! On January 3, Al Qudra Desert will be illuminated by a cosmic spectacle with both Wolf Supermoon and Quadrantid Meteor Shower lighting up the sky in a single night. The first full moon of the year will reach its closest point to Earth, making it look brighter and bigger than usual. As it rises, the moon will cast a stunning golden glow, creating the perfect backdrop for the meteor shower, which will add its own magic to the evening. Known for producing bright fireballs, these meteors...