What to do in UAE

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...

A quick heads-up in case you feel like planning a day out with friends or family during this school break. A few popular attractions in Dubai are offering free tickets and special offers, so it’s good to know what’s available and maybe save a few ideas for later plans. From sky-high pools and beach resorts to playful art spaces and waterparks, here are 5 Dubai attractions with free tickets and offers available this March. 1. Aquaventure World One of Dubai’s largest waterparks, known for its record-breaking slides, river rides and wide beachfront at Atlantis, The Palm. Offer: Limited number of...

Dubai’s One Za’abeel is turning up the heat with a major summer retail event. The Curated Playlist pop-up is taking over The Plaza for two weekends — May 23 to 25 and May 30 to June 1 — bringing together an impressive lineup of regional and global brands across fashion, beauty, homeware and more. This immersive shopping experience celebrates independent and well-known labels, with everything from statement jewellery and beachwear to clean skincare and handmade ceramics.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by One Za’abeel (@onezaabeel) Some of the participating brands (organisers promise more than...

A new cycling trail for kids is now open in Dubai, and it’s a great option for parents looking for outdoor activities that feel safe and easy to fit into family routines. Located inside Mushrif National Park, Young Rangers Cycling Trail is the first child-focused cycling trail of its kind in the Middle East. It's reserved for young cyclists under the age of 12. It stretches for 1.5 km through Mushrif’s forest landscape, surrounded by Ghaf trees that create a calm and shaded environment, which helps parents feel more comfortable letting their kids ride freely without pressure from older cyclists....

Dubai’s ambitious Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is shaping up to be more than just an aviation hub — it’s on track to become a next-generation transport ecosystem. One of the latest confirmed features? An underground train system designed to make passenger movement across the massive site faster and more efficient. Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths revealed that the new airport — set to be one of the largest in the world — will be so expansive that passengers could face travel times of up to 20 minutes just to get from one...

A new digital convenience is coming to petrol pumps across Dubai. Salik, the familiar name behind toll gate payments, is expanding its scope. In a soon-to-launch partnership with ENOC petrol stations, motorists will be able to pay for fuel using their Salik e-wallet — no PINs, no cards, no physical interaction at the terminal required. Here’s how it works. The system is powered by Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology. Once you drive into a participating ENOC station: Cameras scan your vehicle’s licence plate The system identifies your Salik account The fuel amount is automatically deducted from your e-wallet ENOC...

Finding a nearby place to walk, let kids run around, or simply sit outside is becoming easier in Abu Dhabi. The city has opened 16 new parks in Al Shamkhah district, giving residents more easy access to green spaces close to home. This initiative focuses on making outdoor time part of daily routines rather than something saved for weekends or special outings. This expansion of green spaces reflects a wider shift in how the capital approaches urban planning. In May 2025, Abu Dhabi ranked 9th in a global survey of cities with the best green spaces and access to nature,...

Getting kids off screens after a full day of online learning isn’t always easy. If you’re looking for something simple and creative to fill that gap, Lush UAE is offering free after-school sessions. Until April 30, the brand's stores are hosting daily sessions for children and teens who want to do something hands-on. There’s no booking required. You can walk in at any time during the session hours, which makes it easy to fit around school schedules or last-minute plans. Session timings: Monday to Thursday: 3 PM to 6 PM Friday: 12 PM to 6 PM All sessions are free...

If you're in Dubai and love seafood, head straight to Dubai Waterfront Market. Right now, they’re hosting a Seafood Festival, with exclusive deals and specials at a selection of top spots. Expect generous platters, seasonal dishes, and fresh catches that are sure to satisfy any seafood lover. The list of participating restaurants include: Paluto Restaurant BOAT Seafood Restaurant Yahya Seafood Restaurant Aylla Seafood Restaurant & Café The market is buzzing with energy all day long, and the holiday season adds extra fun with a seafood-themed holiday tree and weekend entertainment. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Waterfront...

If you’re planning to use public transport in Dubai during the long Eid Al Fitr weekend, there are some important changes to keep in mind. The Dubai Metro, tram, and buses will all follow adjusted schedules from March 18 to March 22, as the UAE observes its public holiday marking the end of Ramadan. Here’s a quick look at the new timings to help you plan ahead. Dubai Metro will operate on extended hours during the holiday period: March 18 to 21: Red and Green Lines will run from 5 AM until 1 AM the next day March 22: The...