What to do in UAE

The UAE has climbed to 5th place in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. This puts the country ahead of major global economies like the United States, Germany, and Sweden — and marks a steady rise from its 28th position in 2009. In the 2025 results, the UAE secured: 1st place in absence of bureaucracy 2nd — in policy adaptability 4th — in government efficiency The annual ranking, conducted by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), assesses 69 countries based on key indicators including economic performance, business efficiency, infrastructure, and government effectiveness. At the top of the list were...

Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island is quickly cementing its place as one of the UAE’s fastest-growing travel hotspots. With big developments like Ardee Al Marjan Island and Wynn Al Marjan Island in the pipeline, there’s a lot to look forward to — and now Fairmont is adding to the excitement. Fairmont has officially announced its debut in Ras Al Khaimah with not one, but two new properties: Fairmont Al Marjan Island Hotel and Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island. Both will be part of the newly launched Ardee Al Marjan Island community, promising a new standard of beachfront luxury blending...

As cooler weather returns to the UAE, Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah's star attraction, is kicking off its 2024/25 season with brand-new adventures and enhanced experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and thrill-seekers. From adrenaline-pumping zipline rides to rugged survival camps, this season is set to raise the bar for adventure tourism in the region. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp: New Heights of Survival The Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is back, inviting adventurers to test their limits with new survival challenges, including the Via Ferrata course — an exhilarating 120-metre climb across a 3km trail through the rugged Hajar mountains. This thrilling...

Cake lovers in Dubai, rejoice! The renowned cake studio, Cake Away, has opened a new branch in Al Jaddaf, conveniently located at the Al Wasl Sports Complex. Known for its one-of-a-kind, intricately designed cakes, Cake Away’s latest expansion aims to make its premium creations more accessible to a wider audience across Dubai. The new Al Jaddaf store marks a significant milestone for Cake Away, enhancing the brand’s mission to deliver exceptional, handcrafted cakes that bring celebrations to life. From lavish wedding cakes to fun, themed birthday cakes, Cake Away has something for every occasion and style. This newest branch is...

One of the most demanding fitness events is heading to the capital this summer. Spartan Race is coming to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on September 20, offering a new twist on the popular obstacle challenge. This time, it will take place in a climate-controlled indoor setting, with a short outdoor stretch included. The adult race features a 3 km course with 15 Spartan obstacles. Designed for speed and accessibility, this version of Spartan — called a “City” race — is compact and high-energy, making it suitable for various fitness levels. Young athletes can also take part in the competition, with...

If you're ready to challenge yourself and push your limits, the Ultra Trail Dubai (UTD) 2025 is calling your name. Held in the rugged wilderness of Hatta this December, this high-intensity trail race offers a tough challenge for ultra runners and an exciting entry point for road runners looking to make the jump to trail running. The UTD courses take participants across rocky terrain, remote mountain ridgelines, technical descents, and relentless climbs — all while offering stunning views that make every painful step worth it. Whether you're aiming for a podium finish or simply embracing the experience, UTD provides the...

Sharjah Literature Festival is back for its second edition in 2026. In January, it will bring together literature, music, art, and culture under the theme "A Community Woven by Tales." Whether you're a bookworm, a music lover, or someone who simply enjoys discovering new things, this festival offers something for everyone. Imagine strolling through a book fair, with 42 Emirati publishing houses offering local titles for every age and interest. You can also join thought-provoking panel discussions with renowned authors like Afra Mahmoud and Sara Galadari, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at their creative processes and insights into the...

Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) is back from September 1 to 6, 2025, kicking off the global fashion season ahead of New York, London, Milan and Paris. Hosted at Dubai Design District (d3), this Spring/Summer 2026 edition will welcome over 30 designers from the UAE and the world. From couture to ready-to-wear, the week will be filled with aesthetics and fashion voices. Designers from France, India, Italy, Lebanon, Libya, the UK, Malaysia, the Philippines, Iraq, Turkey, Canada will present their 2026 Spring/Summer collections.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dubai Fashion Week (@dubaifashionweek) For the...

As the summer break ends and school gets back in session, UAE drivers have something to look forward to. A Day Without Accidents, a special initiative by the Ministry of Interior (MOI). Set for August 25, 2025, the goal of the day is to promote road safety, especially with the heavy traffic surge as children return to school. On August 25, UAE residents are encouraged to be extra cautious on the roads to ensure the safety of school-going children. To make things even more engaging, the Ministry has introduced an incentive program for drivers who remain violation-free. Drivers who follow...

The festive season might still be a few months away, but it's never too early to start getting excited. Especially when the dates for the Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market 2025 in Dubai have just been announced, and it’s time to mark your calendars. The market will open on Friday, December 5, and will welcome guests all the way through to Wednesday, December 31, transforming Fort Island into a winter wonderland that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. The large Christmas tree, beautifully decorated with baubles, stars, and candy canes, a band playing all-time favorite seasonal tunes, mulled wine, and...