Fresh reporting, essential guides and the stories shaping life across the Emirates — updated throughout the day.
GOING OUTBeyond the UAE’s renowned landmarks and luxury attractions lies a rich mix of hidden gems offering unique entertainment experiences. For those eager to venture off the beaten path, the following venues provide immersive adventures that delve deep into the nation’s innovative spirit and ultimately, the UAE’s best kept secrets. Some of these secrets I only…
Lifestyle
Entertainment
From house beats rolling over the surf to hip-hop shaking stadiums, the United Arab Emirates has transformed into a world-class music festival hub. Over the last decade, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have leveraged cutting-edge infrastructure, government-backed cultural initiatives, and a community representing over 200 nationalities to create a festival season that rivals Europe’s summer circuit.…
The UAE is no longer just a place to buy global luxury — it makes its own. A generation of Emirati and UAE-based designers is now dressing celebrities, redefining the abaya and building homegrown labels with genuine international pull. Here are ten to know in 2026, what they do, and where to shop them. 10…
Who are the Middle Eastern actors worth watching first? Start with Rami Malek, Hiam Abbass, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Golshifteh Farahani, Tahar Rahim, Mena Massoud, May Calamawy, Ramy Youssef and Mo Amer—but do not stop at one awards-season headline or superhero role. The strongest MENA screen careers now span Hollywood studios, global streaming, European cinema and creator-led…
Abu Dhabi-based AI-powered space technology company, Space42, has signed a landmark Dh18.7 billion ($5.1 billion) agreement with the UAE Government. This agreement provides secure satellite communication services until 2043. The 17-year contract, set to commence in 2026, highlights the UAE’s growing leadership in space technology. It also reinforces Space42’s financial strength. Long-Term Revenue and Advanced…
As 2024 comes to a close, sneaker enthusiasts are already looking ahead to the exciting lineup of releases in 2025. Among the most anticipated drops is the Air Jordan 5 “Year of the Snake”. This edition is a key addition to Jordan Brand’s annual Zodiac-inspired collection. This first in-hand look offers a tantalising preview. It…
Marvel Studios continues to expand its cinematic universe with the introduction of Thunderbolts. This film promises to bring a unique twist to the superhero genre. Unlike the traditional Avengers-style teams, the Thunderbolts are a group of anti-heroes and reformed villains who operate in morally grey areas. Scheduled for release in 2025, the movie is one…
Rolex is, without question, the most influential and recognisable watchmaker in the world. The Crown produces the market’s most iconic timepieces, setting trends that the entire industry inevitably follows. Ranking the top ten Rolex watches might seem a daunting task. After all, how can you choose a definitive winner when the brand has consistently delivered…
Bitcoin Hits $107K, as the cryptocurrency market witnesses renewed investor confidence. Large wallet holders have surged by 9.9%, with 1,582 new wallets holding at least 100 BTC added since October 10, according to blockchain analytics firm Santiment. This growth underscores increasing interest from institutional and high-net-worth investors in Bitcoin, as the leading cryptocurrency shows no…
In a packed Cobalt Ballroom at the Fontainebleau Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, the boisterous crowd of 3,500 erupted as Vasil Kamotskii, better known as Dumpling, delivered an open-handed slap that sounded like a thunderclap. His opponent, Kamil Marusarz, hit the floor instantly. The referees and medical staff rushed to check on Marusarz, whose…
Victor Wembanyama might now be basketball’s “Alien,” but Steph Curry’s otherworldly skills redefined the sport long before. Known for his jaw-dropping 40-foot three-pointers and gravity-defying shots, Curry’s unmatched talent reshaped the game entirely. As the Golden State Warriors ignite their 2024-25 season with a blazing start, the Baby-Faced Assassin seems ready to spearhead their journey…
The Formula One world collided with Hollywood in spectacular fashion during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as Brad Pitt’s highly anticipated F1 movie concluded its on-site filming. With a fictional twist interwoven into the real-life world of F1, this unique project has generated immense buzz, combining Hollywood storytelling with the adrenaline-pumping drama of motorsport. Brad…
Spotify Wrapped has cemented itself as a December tradition, turning a year’s worth of music listening into bite-sized, shareable insights. Each year, Spotify adds a unique twist to its presentation, sparking excitement, memes, and sometimes, bewilderment. Its newest feature, Your Music Evolution, has taken center stage—and stirred controversy. Spotify Wrapped The feature aims to chart…
