What to do in Dubai

Dubai Mall has rolled out changes to pick-up and drop-off locations for visitors, employees, and tour operators, as Emaar continues upgrades on its infrastructure, including the Grand Parking area. Tour Buses and Hop-On Hop-Off Service Tour bus pick-up and drop-off points along Grand Drive and Grand Parking are set to close soon. While no official date has been announced, operators are already adjusting routes.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dubai Mall by Emaar (@thedubaimall) Tour buses will now stop near Dubai Mall Chinatown or at the front of Dubai Mall Zabeel. The RTA’s...

The highly anticipated Dubai Fitness Challenge 2024 is back for its eighth edition and promising to be bigger and better than ever. This year’s challenge is calling all residents of Dubai to commit to 30 minutes of exercise every day for 30 days from October 26 to November 24, and it offers exciting events for people of all fitness levels.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dubai Fitness Challenge (@dubaifitnesschallenge) The event aims to build on last year’s impressive turnout, which saw over 35,000 residents take part in the Dubai Ride alone. This year,...

The Dubai Metro Blue Line is set to launch operations on September 9, 2029, as announced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). A construction contract worth AED 20.5 billion has been awarded to three firms: Turkey’s Mapa and Limak, along with China’s CRRC. The project will span 30 kilometers and feature 14 stations, providing a new transit link between Dubai International Airport and key urban areas. These include Mirdif, Al Warqa, International City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, and Dubai Festival City. Travel times along the line will range from 10 to 25 minutes, making it a vital part...

Haft Khan, a celebrated name in Iranian dining, is preparing to open its doors in Dubai. Originally from Shiraz (Iran), the restaurant is known for its deep cultural roots, traditional flavours, and multi-sensory dining experience. The new location will debut at The Walk, JBR, bringing Persian hospitality to one of Dubai’s busiest beachfront neighbourhoods. The original Haft Khan in Shiraz has long been a go-to for those seeking a rich and refined take on classic Persian cuisine. Its reputation rests on its commitment to both heritage and detail — qualities the Dubai branch intends to honour.     View this...

If you’re a UAE resident looking to visit China, there’s a new visa procedure you need to follow. The Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in Dubai has updated its requirements, and applicants must now complete a two-step process that combines online and in-person actions. Here's what to expect. Step 1: Apply Online First You can no longer walk into the visa centre without completing an online step. All applicants must now fill out their visa application at https://www.visaforchina.cn. You’ll need to: Complete the visa application form online Upload all required documents (e.g. passport copy, recent photo, no-objection certificate, hotel bookings,...

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled plans for significant infrastructure improvements in Al Awir 1, designed to ease traffic congestion and improve road safety. The project includes the construction of 16.5 km of internal roads and enhancements to key access points in the area. Key Features of the Project New entrance from Emirates Road: A 4-km lane will be added to Emirates Road, extending from Al Awir 1 to Sharjah. This expansion is expected to boost the road’s capacity by 16%, helping to accommodate more vehicles and reduce delays. Internal road network: Within Al Awir 1, 7.5 km...

Al Maktoum International Airport, also known as Dubai World Central (DWC), is on its way to becoming the world's largest airport. A massive expansion is in progress, with a total investment of AED 128 billion, and now a new development phase is gaining attention. Aviation services company Falcon has announced a major investment of over AED 360 million to upgrade its facility at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai. This expansion will include a new private jet terminal, expected to be ready by 2030. Falcon’s facility specializes in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul, serving planes like the Airbus...

If you're driving to big events in Dubai, be prepared for higher parking fees. Starting Monday, February 17, parking rates near Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) will go up during event hours. The new rates, set by Parkin, the city's public parking operator, will charge AED 25 per hour in the "Grand Event Zone" around the venue. This is a significant jump from the previous fees. Parkin announced the changes on Instagram, advising people to use public transport to avoid traffic jams around DWTC during major events. The increase aims to ease congestion in the area, which often gets packed...

Celebrate the festive season in style at Ski Dubai’s Winter Wonderland! From December 1 to December 25, 2024, this spectacular event brings the magic of winter to the heart of Dubai, offering snowy adventures and holiday delights perfect for families and friends. Children can chat with Santa and his merry elves, receive a surprise gift, and snap a keepsake photo to remember the special occasion. For families seeking a magical bonding experience, the “Family Meets Santa” package includes tickets for four, a cherished group photo, and festive treats that capture the holiday spirit. But the winter fun doesn’t stop there!...

The 17th edition of the Dubai Crown Prince Endurance Festival is set to captivate equestrian enthusiasts from January 7 to 11 at the Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC) in Seeh Al Salam. This eagerly awaited event will showcase the skills and endurance of the UAE's finest long-distance stables and riders, alongside top international competitors based in the region. Organized by the Dubai Equestrian Club in partnership with the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, the Festival stands as a highlight on the UAE’s annual endurance racing calendar. The action kicks off on Tuesday, January 7, with the 101-km Dubai Crown Prince...