What to do in Dubai

Dubai’s ambition to become a global leader in smart mobility continues with the announcement of a new robotaxi trial. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a memorandum of understanding with US-based Pony.ai to bring autonomous taxis to the emirate. Supervised trials are expected to begin in the second half of 2025, with fully driverless services anticipated to launch as early as next year. This partnership adds to the growing list of autonomous vehicle initiatives underway in Dubai. It follows previous agreements with Uber and Chinese firm Baidu, both of which are also expected to test driverless taxi services...

A new high-rise tower is joining Dubai’s skyline — and it’s set to rise in Meydan. Developer Sobha Realty has revealed plans for a 71-storey residential skyscraper known as The S Tower, standing 300 metres tall and featuring just 105 residences with 4- and 5-bedroom units. The project reflects a design personally selected by Sobha Realty’s founder, P.N.C. Menon, and is positioned to become one of the tallest structures in the Meydan area. Prices for the new S Tower haven’t been officially released. Sobha Realty is keeping the sales process exclusive and private, using personal invitations and direct outreach to...

For all the Keralites and Desi culture lovers in Dubai, MMDE Thrissur Pooram is your chance to experience a true taste of home right here in the heart of the UAE! This iconic celebration, taking place on December 1 and 2 at Etisalat Academy, brings the spirit of Kerala’s Thrissur Pooram to life, with the same legendary artists and performances that make this festival a must-see in Kerala. MMDE Thrissur Pooram in Dubai: Two Days of Celebration Day 1 (December 1) features traditional ceremonies like Kodiyettam (flag hoisting), and performances including Panchari Melam, Ilanjithara Melam, and Robotic Elephants. End the...

Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced more traffic diversions in Dubai, this time — in Academic City due to ongoing construction on the Dubai Metro Blue Line. The latest update includes the closure of 63 Street in both directions in front of the German International School. While access to Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Street remains open, alternative entry and exit points will be provided for school traffic. A detailed map of the diversion routes has been released by the RTA.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by هيئة الطرق والمواصلات، دبي (@rta_dubai) Drivers are...

The UAE’s dining landscape continues to attract major international names, and the latest to join the fold is Osaka Nikkei, a globally renowned Peruvian-Japanese concept set to open in Downtown Dubai. The new Dubai outpost will be located on the 35th floor of the soon-to-open Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai, promising dramatic views of the city skyline alongside an immersive culinary experience rooted in Nikkei tradition.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Osaka (@osakanikkei) Originally launched in Lima in 2002, Osaka Nikkei began as a passion project between two friends who wanted to blend Japanese...

Dubai’s culinary scene is about to welcome Harummanis, a unique Singaporean-Malay restaurant from acclaimed chef Akmal Anuar. Known for his work at Dubai’s Michelin-starred 11 Woodfire, Anuar is now venturing into more personal territory by infusing his heritage into this exciting new establishment. Located on Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah, Harummanis will feature a laid-back atmosphere that brings a taste of Malay tradition to Dubai diners. The name Harummanis reflects Anuar’s roots and pays tribute to the fragrant, sought-after Harumanis mango, emblematic in Malay culture. Anuar’s passion for Singaporean cuisine began with his family’s nasi padang stall in Teck Whye,...

Ahead of the upcoming Spartan Middle East races in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, a series of free high-intensity workout tours are being offered to help you get race-ready. These one-hour sessions are the perfect way to train for the big day and test your limits. Expect everything from running to heavy lifting, climbing, and problem-solving, all spread across a multi-kilometer course. If you want to compete and get a good time, a bit of pre-race training is key, and these workout tours are a great way to get started. Thanks to a partnership with Warehouse Gym, these free sessions are...

Dubai's latest pop-up unites Italian luxury fashion and food in perfect harmony with the opening of the Missoni Café at Bloomingdale's, Dubai Mall. The limited-time café combines the iconic brand's bold style with a menu of indulgent treats. The café's interior reflects Missoni's signature aesthetic - vibrant hues of purple, indigo and blue are prominent, creating an inviting, fashion-forward atmosphere. It's a visual feast for brand lovers, with every detail reflecting its unique patterns and luxurious flair.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mohamed almazrouei (@maz_abudhabi) On the menu, guests can expect a selection of...

Dubai’s fine dining scene has a new arrival. Vera Versilia, a seafood-focused Italian restaurant inspired by the Tuscan coast, has officially opened on the second floor of Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. The restaurant draws heavily from Versilia, the famed seaside region of Tuscany that blends natural beauty, artistic heritage, and refined living. The space channels this spirit through light, sculptural interiors in sand-toned hues, polished Carrara marble accents, and original artworks from Pietrasanta.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Marco Garfagnini (@marcogarfagnini) At the helm is Executive Chef Marco Garfagnini, a Versilia...

This May, a creative and lively event is heading to both Abu Dhabi and Dubai: a Coachella-themed sip and paint experience that brings together art, music, food and fun. Organised by Design & Dine, these unique brunch sessions offer festival vibes without leaving the UAE. Guests will paint music festival-inspired canvases while enjoying brunch, drinks, live music and a vibrant crowd. The Abu Dhabi event takes place on May 16 at Saadiyat Beach Club (indoors), while the Dubai edition happens earlier on May 9 at PAPA, V Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road.     View this post on Instagram   A...