What to do in Dubai

Traveling to Dubai from Emirates soon? You're in for a special treat! If you're booking a return flight – be it in the economy, business, or first class – between January 12 and February 1, 2024, for travel before March 31, 2024, the airline is turning your journey into an adventure by offering free tickets to two of Dubai's must-visit spots – the Museum of the Future and Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark. Here's the lowdown on grabbing those free tickets: Book your flights online at emirates.com, through the Emirates call center, at an Emirates ticketing office, or simply through your favorite...

Dubai has once again proven its global appeal by securing a spot in the top three of Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice: Best of the Best Awards for 2025. This recognition highlights the city's multifaceted charm, admired not only by its residents but also by travelers worldwide. Whether you live in Dubai or are planning a visit, it’s clear the city offers something for everyone. Residents often cite a combination of factors that make Dubai an exceptional place to call home: safety and tolerance for diverse cultures, stunning beaches and year-round sunshine, tax-free income and abundant career opportunities, or a vibrant mix...

Visitors arriving in Dubai are getting a warm welcome — and a little something extra — as part of a new initiative offering free Global Village tickets to tourists. Whether flying into Dubai International Airport or crossing into the city from Hatta, tourists have been receiving complimentary access to the city's popular multicultural theme park, thanks to a collaboration between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and Global Village. The gesture comes as part of the Year of Community campaign in the UAE, which focuses on strengthening family ties, celebrating cultural diversity, and encouraging inclusive, shared experiences....

One thing that likely catches visitors' attention in Dubai right away is the city's spotless streets and pristine surroundings. This year, Dubai has secured its title as the cleanest city in the world, a recognition awarded by the Global Power City Index (GPCI). This marks the fifth consecutive year that the emirate has earned this prestigious honor. The GPCI, published by Japan’s Mori Memorial Foundation, evaluates major cities based on their appeal to residents, businesses, and visitors. Cities are assessed across six categories: economy, research and development, cultural interaction, livability, environment, and accessibility. Among the 48 global cities ranked, Dubai...

The UAE passport has officially entered the major league, now the second strongest in the world in the 2026 Henley Index. With access to 187 countries visa-free, Emiratis can enjoy more travel freedom than ever before: the EU, the UK, Thailand, Switzerland, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan, just to name a few. This marks a significant rise, up from 10th place just last year, and an impressive leap from its modest 38th position in 2016. Today, the UAE is ranked alongside countries like Japan and South Korea. In the past 10 years, the country has gained visa-free access to 152...

Planning to spend Eid Al Fitr 2025 outdoors? Dubai Municipality has shared the official park timings for the holiday period, ensuring families and visitors can make the most of their break. Working Hours of Dubai Public Parks for Eid Most residential parks and public squares will welcome visitors from 8 AM to midnight throughout the holiday. Major parks such as Zabeel, Creek, Al Mamzar, Al Safa, and Mushrif will follow this schedule as well, welcoming visitors from 8 AM to 12 PM daily. Children’s City, a popular family attraction, will have varied timings: Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 8...

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...

Dubai has introduced a new public health law that will shape how the city responds to health risks and communicable diseases. The law, officially called Law No. (5) of 2025, was issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE. It will take effect 90 days after its publication in the Official Gazette.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by اللجنة العليا للتشريعات - دبي (@dubaislc) Public Health Law 2025: Rules and Responsibilities The new public health law bans hiding an illness or spreading it, whether...

The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) has announced its official working hours for the Hijri New Year holiday, which falls on Friday, 27 June 2025 (1447 AH). To ensure the smooth delivery of services during the public holiday, GDRFA Dubai has confirmed that key centers and platforms will remain operational.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by إقامة دبي | GDRFA Dubai (@gdrfadubai) Customer Happiness Centers That Remain Open Dubai International Airport – Terminal 3 (Arrivals Hall) The Customer Happiness Center will be available 24/7, continuing to support travelers...

Dubai’s burger game is levelling up with the arrival of Junk Smash Burgers, the viral French-born brand known for its indulgent, high-impact smash burgers. After gaining a cult following in Paris and London, the concept is getting ready to open its first location in the UAE — right at 25 Jump Street, the city’s newly launched licensed street next to 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central. Brought in by Icon Hospitality, the same team behind EL&N, the Dubai outpost promises a straightforward approach to burgers — zero fluff, just quality.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared...