What to do in Dubai

As winter settles in, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai invites you to experience a range of exquisite dining events that add a festive touch to your celebrations. From honoring Thailand’s Loy Krathong festival to indulging in teppanyaki delights and a luxurious take-home turkey feast, there's something for everyone at this iconic Dubai destination. Loy Krathong Festival at Tong Thai Date & Time: November 15-16, 2024, from 6 PM to 11:30 PM Price: AED 225 (soft beverages) | AED 345 (house beverages) If you're a fan of Thai cuisine, join the magical Loy Krathong celebration at Tong Thai. This traditional Thai Festival...

Starting June 18, 2025, travellers in the UAE applying for Schengen visas to France or Germany will need to complete an online Visa Application Form when scheduling their appointment on VFS Global’s portal. This change was announced by VFS Global to streamline the appointment system and reduce errors. The new form requirement is mandatory and must be filled out as part of the booking process — marking a shift from the previous method, where applicants could schedule a time slot first and submit the application form later. What’s Changing for UAE-Based Applicants: The online application form is now integrated into...

Dubai fashion lovers, mark your calendars because something big is coming to the city! One of the most visited shopping destination in the world will be hosting Dubai Mall Festival of Fashion in January 2026. It’s going to be a weekend packed with all the fashion, creativity, and innovation you could hope for. The event will take place on January 29 and 30 and feature 12 fashion masterclasses, giving attendees a chance to hear from some of the biggest names in fashion. Expect to learn from celebrated designers, industry leaders, and influencers as they share their insider knowledge and tips....

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has started testing a new high-tech passport control system designed to make travelling smoother for some passengers. The system, called "Unlimited Smart Travel", uses artificial intelligence and facial recognition to verify people’s identity—without needing to show any documents. Right now, it’s available in the First and Business Class lounges at Terminal 3. This move is part of the airport’s effort to use smart technology to improve travel. The project was announced during Dubai AI Week by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). A senior GDRFA official explained that the system builds on the...

Dubai Airshow is adding a fresh twist to the city’s fitness scene with Runway Run, a unique 5K experience scheduled for November 16, 2025. Held as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, the event invites more than 1,000 participants to take on the Airshow runway, weaving through spectacular static aircraft displays. The event runs from 5:30 AM to 8:30 AM at SkyView within the Dubai Airshow site. The setting transforms the morning run into a rare blend of sport, aviation, and community spirit, offering runners a behind-the-scenes look at the world-class Dubai Airshow grounds before the exhibition officially opens. Runway...

Get ready, food lovers! Taste of Dubai is back for 2025, and it’s shaping up to be a weekend packed with mouthwatering experiences. From Friday, February 14, to Sunday, February 16, Dubai Media City Amphitheatre will turn into a foodie paradise. This year’s lineup includes 14 renowned chefs, offering you the chance to watch cooking demonstrations, attend hands-on workshops, and even meet culinary stars in person. Big names like Marco Pierre White, José Pizarro, and Alvin Leung will be there, along with other top talents from around the world. Here’s the full list of chefs you can meet at Taste...

Dubai’s dining scene has a new gem: COCO Restaurant, the celebrated London hotspot, has opened its doors in Downtown Dubai. Known for its bold approach to design and dining, COCO promises an unforgettable experience with signature dishes, elegant interiors, and panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa. COCO's original London location is loved for its opulent, nature-inspired decor and a prime spot overlooking the River Thames. Now, that same magic has been reimagined in Dubai with a space that blends grandeur and sophistication.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by COCO GRILL & LOUNGE - DUBAI...

Dubai’s parking network continues to grow, and now, Mirdif is getting two new paid parking zones starting Monday, May 26. Parkin, the city’s official parking operator, announced the launch of Zone 251C (on-street) and Zone 251D (off-street), expanding regulated parking in one of the city’s busiest residential districts. Parking in these new zones will be free on Sundays and public holidays, but standard tariffs will apply on other days, with variable rates for peak and non-peak hours. Here are the rates for the two new parking zones in Mirdif: Zone 251C – On-Street Parking 1 hour: AED 4 (peak), AED...

Staying connected while commuting just got easier in Dubai. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has confirmed that 31 public transport stations across the city are now equipped with free Wi-Fi, helping residents and visitors stay online as they travel. As of May 13, passengers can access complimentary internet at two additional marine transport hubs: Marina Promenade and Dubai Marina Mall Marine Transport Station. These new additions bring the total number of connected locations to 17 bus stations and 14 marine transport stations.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by هيئة الطرق والمواصلات، دبي (@rta_dubai)...

Dubai has a new bus station near Stadium Metro Station, making commuting easier for people in Al Nahda and Al Qusais. Launched by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the station improves connections between buses and the metro, helping commuters save time. The station has 10 bus stops, allowing passengers to reach their destinations more smoothly. To make waiting more comfortable, it includes outdoor seating and shaded areas. A screen provides real-time updates on bus schedules, so travelers always know when their ride is arriving.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by هيئة الطرق والمواصلات،...