What to do in Dubai - Latest News

The sail-shaped silhouette on Jumeirah Beach has been part of Dubai’s skyline for more than two decades. But now, iconic Burj Al Arab is closing for a full refresh. After years of constant use, the building is heading into an 18-month renovation and should reopen around 2027. Since opening in December 1999, the hotel has built a reputation that goes beyond a typical stay. The private island location, the dhow sail design, and the “seven-star” label made it one of the most recognised hotels in the world. After years of hosting guests, the hotel is pausing to rework its interiors....

If you’ve ever wandered through Alserkal Avenue during art week and wished it lasted longer, you’re getting your wish this year. For five weekends, from April 18 to May 18, Al Quoz fills with exhibitions, talks, performances, and workshops over five weekends. Here’s a first look at what’s coming. April 18: Opening weekend On the first weekend, 16 gallery exhibitions open at once. Anthony Akinbola’s solo exhibition at Carbon 12 opens on April 18 and remains on view until May 24. At the same time, a new public artwork by Shilpa Gupta Still A Sky We Hold will appear in...

If you’ve ever stood at a bus stop in Dubai in the middle of summer, this update will feel like a relief. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has installed 726 modern bus shelters across the city, installed at high-traffic areas used by daily commuters. Many of the stops connect with metro stations, taxis, and shared transport. Some of the high-traffic stops connect to more than 10 bus routes and serve over 750 riders a day. The biggest shelters now include air-conditioned waiting areas or shaded seating. You’ll also see real-time screens showing bus routes, arrival times, and service frequency....

You don’t usually walk into a gallery and see oil used like this. Our UAE, now open at Noor Royal Gallery, uses one of the country’s defining resources in a literal way. Every artwork in the exhibition is created with raw petroleum on canvas. The collection moves between past and present of the country through a consistent visual style. Sepia tones, gold hues, and detailed compositions show scenes tied to the UAE’s heritage, leadership, and daily life. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Noor Gallery | نور جاليري (@noorroyalgallery) The price tags for some of the pieces...

If you think the padel trend has already peaked, a new spot in Dubai might change your mind. Padel One has recently opened in Dubai Investment Park, and it even drew Kylian Mbappé for the launch, so you can already get a sense of the level. So, what’s different about this place? Padel One is founded by French singer Dadju and has everything you need for an active weekend or evening. Inside, you’ll find 6 indoor courts, a reformer Pilates studio, and wellness areas. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @padelonedubai You can book a game, come...

What your child eats at school has mostly been out of your hands. That’s starting to change in the UAE with a National Guide for Food and Beverages in the School Environment. The newly issued guide sets strict rules for what schools can serve, how food is handled, and who is responsible for it. According to it, all school food outlets must follow the same strict standards, whether it’s a canteen selling pre-packaged items, a cafeteria preparing sandwiches, or a full-service kitchen. There are 13 responsibilities covering how food is handled, prepared, and monitored. The most relevant change is that...

Working from home while your child studies nearby can get messy fast. With many parents in the UAE adjusting to distance learning, staying focused isn’t always easy. In Dubai, there’s a place that helps take some of that pressure off and makes the day easier for both children and adults. A study space that actually feels like one Terra Study Hub at Expo City Dubai is open to children aged 6 and above. Here, children follow their learning in a supervised space, with support from Terra Education Team. The presence of other children studying nearby creates a more focused atmosphere...

Living in the UAE comes with a strong healthcare system, and the latest rankings confirm it. Based on 2025 data, three major global reports place different areas of the country's healthcare in first place worldwide. The results come from Sustainable Development Goals Report, Prosperity Index, and Global Gender Gap Report. Some of the areas where the UAE ranks first include: Wide coverage of prenatal care High measles immunisation rates Full birth registration for young children Access to healthcare services National early detection programs Low levels of household air pollution Each report looks at a different part of the system, from...

If you’ve been eyeing that Mbappé jersey in Real Madrid colours, you’ll soon be able to pick it up in Dubai. The legendary football club is opening its official store for UAE fans, and the location is already confirmed. The store will be inside Dubai Mall, on the ground floor near Dubai Ice Rink. A large golden Real Madrid logo already covers the storefront, stretching across two retail units, so it will be hard to miss. Dubai Mall has recently welcomed another big name in retail, Primark, known for its affordable clothes. Now, something big for football fans is on...

Ever thought about cycling alongside Dubai Police? You can try it this April thanks to a new initiative called “Ride with Police”. The sessions take place at Dubai Autodrome in Dubai Sports City. Every Wednesday evening in April, the track opens to the public. No special level is required. You can ride alongside police cyclists, families, amateur riders, and experienced cyclists. Just bring your bike and join the ride on a professional track. Location: Dubai Autodrome, Dubai Sports City When: Every Wednesday in April 2026 Time: 7 PM to 10 PM Before heading to the riding event, make sure to...