What to do in UAE - Latest News

Christmas is just a few weeks away, and if you’re still waiting for that festive feeling to hit, here’s your chance to dive into the holiday magic in Ras Al Khaimah! The city is full of fun and festive events and activities this December. Whether you're mixing holiday cocktails or decorate your gingerbread house, these 4 activities are guaranteed to bring Christmas cheer your way. 1. Get Creative at a Gingerbread Workshop Grab your family or friends and join the pastry team for an afternoon of decorating gingerbread cookies and festive treats. It’s a fun and creative way to spend...

Starting January 1, 2026, there will be some important changes to the UAE's VAT regulations that businesses and taxpayers need to know about. The Ministry of Finance has introduced these changes through Federal Decree-Law No. (16) of 2025, aiming to make the tax process simpler and more efficient. 1. No More Self-Invoices for Reverse Charge Mechanism One of the key updates is that businesses will no longer need to issue self-invoices when using the reverse charge mechanism. Instead, they’ll only need to keep supporting documents related to transactions. This will simplify the process, cut down on paperwork, and make it...

Al Estiqlal Square in Sharjah has undergone a major transformation, and it’s ready to impress both locals and visitors. Inaugurated on December 2, 2025, by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, it now features a new landmark. The place has also been redesigned to make it easier to navigate and safer for everyone who visits. The centerpiece of the square is the striking 34-meter-high Independence Monument. At the top of the monument is a seven-pointed star, representing the seven emirates of the UAE. Around the monument, you’ll notice two new fountains and pedestrian...

Qatar has announced an important update for GCC residents who plan to visit the country. The visit visa period has been extended from one month to two months. Travelers can also apply for a multiple-entry permit. These changes were introduced on November 30 and are available through the Haya platform, according to Qatar Tourism. The aim of this update is to make travel more convenient for GCC visitors. Qatar continues to host many cultural, sports and entertainment events, especially in the years following the FIFA World Cup 2022. A longer stay and the option to enter the country multiple times...

Dubai residents who love an early workout now have even more reason to hit the parks. Dubai Municipality has introduced major changes across the city’s green spaces, including earlier opening hours and a full set of new names for several neighbourhood favourites. These updates aim to make the parks more useful for morning fitness fans and to better reflect each community’s identity. Early Opening Hours for 20 Dubai Parks For the first time, jogging tracks inside 20 residential parks now open daily at 5 AM. This is a big shift from last year’s timings. If you like getting your steps...

You might want to cancel all your plans on December 10 and head straight to Abu Dhabi. This won't your average Wednesday night! Al Wahda FC and Al-Nassr FC are meeting for a friendly match that feels anything but casual. This game between two of the region’s top teams will bring stars, action, and moments you’ll remember for years. And yes, Cristiano Ronaldo will be there! Watching the football legend play live is already special, but seeing him in Abu Dhabi? That’s a moment you won’t forget. Ronaldo is still scoring, still training at 100%, and still showing the same...

If you’ve been putting off a Global Village weekend trip because of traffic or the long drive, there are no more excuses. The Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) has introduced a new bus service from RAK to Dubai’s Global Village. It runs only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, giving residents an easy weekend travel option. Here are all the details on the weekend bus service, including the fare and the schedule: Departures in RAK: main bus station From RAK to Global Village: 3 PM and 5 PM From Global Village to RAK: 10PM and 12 AM Fare: AED 30...

The 33rd UAE President Cup for Arabian Purebred Horses is returning to Abu Dhabi Turf Club on December 6, and it's set to be a fantastic day out for everyone. Whether you're a racing fan or just looking for a fun day with family and friends, don't miss this world-class event. Enjoy the excitement of watching top jockeys and elite horses compete in thrilling races, while also exploring the many activities and cultural experiences on offer throughout the day: Emirati national dress competition for kids aged 6-12 Photo competition where you can capture the best shot of the day for...

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...

Football fans from India have been dreaming of this moment for years, and it's finally happening! Lionel Messi, the football legend, multiple-time Ballon d'Or winner, and one of the greatest players to ever grace the pitch, is finally coming to India in December 2025. With over 700 career goals, four Champions League titles, and leading Argentina to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Messi is undoubtedly the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T). It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the magic of Messi live: his GOAT India Tour will make stops in 4 cities. View this post on Instagram...