What to do in Dubai

SHA Island, set to open in 2027, promises to be a game-changer in wellness living. This groundbreaking development, located on Al Jurf Island between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, will be the world’s first longevity and wellness island, blending luxury with health-focused amenities. The island will feature several housing options designed to complement your wellness journey: 51 sustainable apartments with breathtaking views 19 garden villas with private terrace and pool, all surrounded by lush greenery 67 shoreline villas with four to six bedrooms, direct beach access, private jetties, and a peaceful atmosphere for ultimate relaxation Each home is designed with the...

The UAE’s tourism sector has reached a new high, with the country officially named among the world’s top seven global destinations for international tourist spending, according to the latest data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). The figures highlight just how far the country has come in establishing itself as a key player in the global tourism economy. International visitors spent over AED 217 billion in the UAE last year, with an additional AED 57 billion coming from domestic tourism.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by WTTC (@wtandtc) His Highness Sheikh Mohammed...

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has announced the approval of a new “one-stop” travel system aimed at making cross-border travel easier for citizens of member states. The pilot phase of this system will begin in December 2025, with air travel between the UAE and Bahrain as the first stage. This initiative mirrors the coordination model of the European Union’s Schengen Area, focusing on simplifying travel by reducing the time spent on immigration, customs, and security checks. Under this new system, travelers will undergo all necessary checks at a single checkpoint upon arrival, eliminating the need for multiple inspections. If the...

Hu Pan, a newly opened Chinese restaurant in Dubai Creek Harbour, brings a refined take on Cantonese cuisine to one of the city’s most scenic waterfront locations. With a focus on traditional flavours and premium ingredients, Hu Pan is set across two levels and offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including a terrace with views of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline. The menu at Hu Pan draws inspiration from Cantonese culinary heritage, with a wide selection of dishes across categories such as starters, handmade dim sum, seafood, Peking duck, wok specialities, and a variety of local desserts.    ...

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is making parking easier for everyone starting September 8. Visitors to this popular destination can now use a new Salik payment option, which allows for seamless parking payments without the need for cash or card transactions. Here’s how it works: Parkonic users can link their Salik account directly to the app. Once linked, parking becomes a breeze — no need for physical payment methods. The new system is part of the ongoing effort to improve convenience for JBR visitors, making it quicker and easier to find a spot and pay. Alongside this new payment option, The...

Adidas is bringing something fresh to the region this April — a limited-time pop-up event in Dubai to launch their new Loomhood Collection. Before the official release, the iconic brand is hosting a 2-day pop-up on April 19–20 at Dream Girl Tailors in Al Fahidi. Visitors can get a close-up look at the new designs and possibly grab a pair before anyone else. The Loomhood Collection gives a local twist to two adidas classics — the Samba OG and Handball Spezial. What makes them stand out? Each pair features the name of a local neighborhood and the exact coordinates of...

Dubai is taking a big step closer to launching its flying taxi service in 2026, and now we know exactly where you’ll be able to catch a ride. First location of vertiports have been announced. They will form the core of the city's new transportation network, connecting key destinations and giving residents and tourists more choice when it comes to getting around. Here's where you can soon board a flying taxi in the city: near Dubai International Airport (DXB), which will be the main hub for aerial taxis at Zabeel Dubai Mall parking. In the heart of downtown, right by...

Two of Dubai’s well-known hospitality names are heading to the beach. This October, The MAINE and Canary Club will launch two new side-by-side venues — The MAINE Palm and Canary Beach — at Club Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah. The dual concept project brings together Joey Ghazal of The MAINE and Amjad Barakat and Jamal Wick of Canary Club, reuniting after their first collaboration in JLT back in 2022. The new venues aim to reflect two different coasts: Canary Beach is influenced by the laid-back, breezy feel of the American West Coast, while The MAINE Palm draws inspiration from East...

Dubai is making it easier for electric vehicle (EV) owners to charge their cars by installing new charging stations at on-street parking spots across the city. This initiative, launched by Parkin — Dubai’s biggest public parking operator — in partnership with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), aims to improve accessibility to EV charging, especially in busy residential areas where home charging isn’t always an option. The new on-street EV charging stations will be set up in zones A and C, which are designated for street parking. Each station will offer two charging points, operating on 22-kilowatt alternating current (AC),...

Martha Stewart has officially entered the Middle East’s retail scene. The American business icon known for her all-things-home empire has launched the Martha Stewart Store in two Dubai locations — City Centre Mirdif and Dubai Hills Mall — and is already preparing to open a third branch at Mall of the Emirates. These stores offer a collection of Martha Stewart’s signature items, including kitchenware, table settings, bedding, bath linens, candles, diffusers, and other essentials for the home. Whether you’re looking for cookware or stylish sheets, the products are designed to reflect the quality and style she’s known for.    ...