What to do in UAE

Looking for a festive escape this winter? Experience a winter wonderland in the dunes. From 14 December to 28 February, The Winter Nest offers an enchanting pop-up dining experience at The Nest by Sonara, set amidst the stunning desert dunes. This one-of-a-kind retreat features eight cozy chalets encircling a majestic Christmas tree decked with sparkling lights, creating a magical Alpine atmosphere. The Winter Nest takes your taste buds on a culinary journey through the Alps: Moitié-Moitié Fondue: a decadent Swiss specialty made of melted cheese, perfect for dipping crusty bread. Raclette: melted cheese poured over tender potatoes, served with tangy...

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a new requirement for vehicle inspections across the city: starting June 2, all vehicle owners must pre-book their technical inspection appointments online. The move aims to improve efficiency and reduce wait times at service centres. Appointments can now be scheduled via the ‘RTA Dubai’ app or the official website www.rta.ae. The system is already live, covering 27 technical testing centres across Dubai, with only Tasjeel Hatta centre exempt from this rule. If you prefer to go without a booking, a walk-in service will still be available at 19 centres, but you’ll have...

Travelling to Japan is about to get easier for UAE citizens. Starting July 1, 2025, UAE nationals holding ordinary passports will be able to stay in Japan for up to 90 days without a visa — a significant increase from the previous 30-day limit. The update was confirmed by the UAE Embassy in Tokyo, and it applies to ordinary passport holders travelling for short-term purposes, such as sightseeing, business, or visiting friends and family. To benefit from this extended visa-free entry to Japan, travellers must meet the following criteria: Be a UAE national with a valid ordinary passport The passport...

Looking for a unique way to spend your weekend? Head to Abu Dhabi’s Al Quaa Desert on Saturday, June 21, 2025, for an unforgettable stargazing event — and yes, transport is available from Dubai. Al Quaa is one of the darkest sky spots in the UAE, which means it offers some of the clearest views of the Milky Way. On this special night, experts from Dubai Astronomy Group will guide participants through a fully immersive session, complete with storytelling, sky mapping, and astrophotography.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dubai Astronomy Group (@dubaiastronomy) The...

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...

The UAE has officially announced that both public and private sector employees will enjoy a holiday on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in celebration of the New Year. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) released a circular confirming the holiday for all federal government entities. Similarly, the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation declared the same day as a paid holiday for private sector workers. Normal work schedules will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2025. This nationwide holiday allows residents to celebrate the arrival of the New Year with family and friends, or simply take the day to relax....

If you’re posting promotional content on social media in the UAE — even without getting paid for it — a new regulation now applies to you. The UAE Media Council has issued a rule that requires influencers and content creators to get an advertising permit for all promotional activity, paid or unpaid. The rule was officially announced on July 30, with a full implementation period of three months. After that, permits will become mandatory, and a list of approved agencies will be published by the UAE Media Council. Key details of the advertising permit system in UAE Permit required for...

Get ready, Abu Dhabi! The iconic British band, Take That, is coming to town for a spectacular one-night-only performance at Etihad Park on Friday, 25 October 2024. Take That, with their chart-topping hits and energetic performances, has been a musical force since the '90s. From "Back for Good" to "Rule the World," their songs have become anthems that span generations. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, the live experience is bound to leave you singing and dancing the night away. This musical powerhouse has claimed the coveted #1 spot on the Official UK Albums Chart...

Experience the magic of Ramadan at Zabeel Park Amphitheatre from March 6 to 23, 2025. This free event invites families, friends, and the whole community to come together for a month of celebration, reflection, and joy. As the sun sets each evening, the powerful sound of the Ramadan cannon will mark the time to break your fast — an age-old tradition dating back to the 10th century. Witness this special moment live before enjoying a delicious iftar or suhoor with a variety of flavors, from traditional dishes to international cuisine and sweet treats. The park will come alive with live...

Rev up your engines for the inaugural DSF Auto Season, a 12-day automotive extravaganza set to dazzle Dubai from 1-12 January 2025. As part of the Dubai Shopping Festival’s grand 30th anniversary, this free event promises an electrifying celebration of cars, creativity, and innovation. Expect everything from classic cars to cutting-edge vehicles, adrenaline-pumping activities, and family-friendly experiences. Here’s a breakdown of the must-see events: Dubai Hills Mall x DSF Auto Season Dates: 1-12 January 2025 Location: Dubai Hills Estate Kick off DSF Auto Season at Dubai Hills Mall, where an impressive car showcase awaits. Don't miss a chance to see...