What to do in Dubai

A major new community development is on the horizon in Dubai South. Dubai South Properties has officially announced Hayat by Dubai South, a wellness-inspired residential project spanning 10 million square feet near the existing terminal of Al Maktoum International Airport. Positioned close to what is set to become the world’s highest-capacity airport, Hayat by Dubai South is designed with future growth in mind. The masterplan includes around 2,500 residential units, offering a broad mix of townhouses, semi-attached and standalone villas, mansions, apartments, and hotel apartments. The community will be centred around wellbeing, with facilities such as lush green parks, shaded...

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has once again taken the lead on the global stage — officially crowned the world’s busiest airport for international passengers in 2024. The latest figures from Airports Council International (ACI) show that DXB handled a massive 92.3 million international travellers, putting it ahead of other major global hubs like London Heathrow, Seoul Incheon, Singapore Changi, and Amsterdam Schiphol. That’s a 6.1% increase from 2023, and it marks the 10th year in a row that Dubai has held this top spot for international traffic. Dubai’s airport isn’t just big — it’s a crucial global connector. As the...

Planning a shopping trip to Spinneys or Waitrose soon? There's a little change you’ll want to know about. Starting February 1, a few branches of these popular stores will introduce paid parking in partnership with Parkin. With the new system in place, drivers still get two hours of free parking. But if you’re planning to stick around longer than a couple of hours (whether for extra shopping or a coffee break), you’ll need to pay a small hourly fee after. Here are the Waitrose locations with paid parking after 2 hours: in Motor City in Al Thanya And here are...

The first day of Eid Al Fitr in 2026 will begin with prayers across the UAE, as the official timings have now been confirmed. Whether you're starting your day in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or any other emirate, here’s what you need to know. Here are the confirmed Eid Al Fitr prayer timings in 2026 for each emirate: Fujairah: 6:10 AM Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah: 6:12 AM Sharjah and Ajman: 6:16 AM Dubai: 6:18 AM Abu Dhabi: 6:20 AM The prayers will be held in approved mosques across the UAE. Please note that traditional open-air prayer grounds will...

If you live in Wasl Village or visit the area often, there’s a small update that may affect your daily routine. A new paid parking zone has been introduced in the area, operating under code 248W. Signs are already installed across the neighborhood, so residents and visitors can easily recognize the designated spaces. The parking system operates 24/7. Here's are hourly parking fees in Wasl Village (248W): 30 minutes = AED 2 1 hour = AED 4 2 hours = AED 8 3 hours = AED 12 4 hours = AED 16 Wasl Village falls into higher-tariff zone, which typically...

You may not typically plan a visit to Global Village in the middle of the week, but this event will definitely make you reconsider. On February 4, the PFL Open Workout will bring the heat to the Main Stage, both literally and figuratively! It’s a rare chance to see some of the biggest names in mixed martial arts show off their skills. Get ready for a live training session with: Usman Nurmagomedov Alfie Davis Ramazan Kuramagomedov Shamil Musaev View this post on Instagram A post shared by Global Village القرية العالمية (@globalvillageuae) Under the guidance of host Dan Hardy, these...

A new kind of fitness challenge is coming to Dubai, and it’s not your typical run in the sun. On Sunday, June 29, the region’s very first Snow Duathlon will take place at Ski Dubai, offering a chance to work up a sweat in sub-zero conditions. The event is a collaboration between Dubai Fitness Council and CRANK fitness studio, bringing together two disciplines — stationary cycling and running — inside the chilled indoor slopes of Ski Dubai. Participants will kick off with a 5 km bike ride, followed by a run through the snow. Runners can choose between a 3...

Step into a world of tradition and childhood nostalgia as the Etihad Museum Garden hosts Hag Al Laila on February 15-16, 2025. This lively Emirati celebration is all about music, storytelling, games, and, of course, plenty of sweet treats! The main stage will feature Basma Choir, performing beloved Khaleeji classics and even some Spacetoon favorites that will bring back childhood memories. Fans of Emirati animation can also enjoy screenings of the well-loved series Freej.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Etihad Museum (@etihadmuseum) As you explore, you’ll come across Eternal Gateways, an installation by Emirati...

A brand-new dining spot, Gerbou, has opened its doors in Dubai, offering a creative spin on Emirati cuisine. A collaboration between Atelier House Hospitality — known for top-tier dining experiences — and Tashkeel, a renowned UAE art and design incubator, Gerbou welcomes guests with a menu that mixes tradition with innovation. The name "Gerbou" means "Welcome to my humble abode" in Arabic, and that’s exactly the feeling diners get when they step inside. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a special Emirati-style high tea known as fwala.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by...

Flying taxis in Dubai are getting closer to becoming a reality! The UAE government has taken a big step by planning air routes and setting safety rules for these futuristic rides. At the World Governments Summit in Dubai, officials announced that they are working on "air corridors" — invisible roads in the sky. These will guide flying taxis and cargo drones safely between key locations, including Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Zayed International Airport, as well as other major landmarks. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joby Aviation (@jobyaviation) For flying taxis to work, they need designated...