It’s been a busy week in UAE news this week
Lewis Capaldi played in Abu Dhabi
Probably the biggest news in the UAE this week, and the most popular Instagram story in the country was the Scottish singer performing as part of the Saadiyat Nights series in Abu Dhabi.
Nobu was launched in One Za’abeel
Dubai got a first taste of one of the most anticipated restaurant openings of 2026, as Nobu One Za’abeel welcomed a host of celebrities, influencers, and VIPs for an exclusive pre-opening event on Friday ahead of the official launch on Saturday 17 January. Guests enjoyed a sneak peek of the stunning new venue, sampled signature Nobu dishes, and soaked up the high-energy atmosphere. See all the famous faces who attended here.
Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro station is getting a major upgrade
One of Dubai’s busiest Metro stations is about to become much bigger. The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is set for a major expansion, designed to ease crowding and shorten waiting times during the city’s busiest events. Read more about it here.
Emirates launches flights to Helsinki, Finland
It was announced that Emirates will soon be launching direct flights to Helsinki in Finland. The flight will be every day and will be the only year-round direct link between Finland and the UAE, as it gives travellers more opportinties for holiday makers and business travellers. See when the flights will begin here.
Reservations are now open for Barrafina in Dubai
Barrafina, the much-loved, London-born Spanish restaurant will open in DIFC’s Gate Village this month and foodies in Dubai are very excited about it (including us). See the opening date and make reservations here.
British rock band Muse cancels Abu Dhabi concert
The British rock band, Muse’s upcoming show at Etihad Arena on February 4 has been postponed due to what organisers described as “unforeseen circumstances”. The announcement was shared by Live Nation on social media. See more here.
Temperates in Dubai have dropped
In the news of UAE weather, everyone’s favourite topic, Dubai is now experiencing the peak of its winter season, with the coldest stretch running between January 10 and 22. This period is traditionally known as Dur Al Sittin, a time associated with the chilliest days and nights of the year. See more information about the cold spell here.
The world’s busiest airport is now Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport (DXB) has officially taken the top spot as the world’s busiest airport, beating Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in the United States. The new ranking is based on scheduled airline seat capacity for January 2026, and it puts Dubai ahead of long-time leader Atlanta for the first time in years. See more.
Dubai breaks record with Dhs917 billion in real estate transactions
It was announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai that Dubai has reached a major milestone in its property market, with total real estate transactions hitting Dhs917 billion last year. Read more here.
Dubai Airport is introducing ticketless parking
Drivers will no longer need to collect a ticket when using Dubai International Airport’s car parks. Dubai Airports has signed a 10-year deal with Salik to introduce a ticketless parking system across all terminals, making the experience faster and more convenient. See when it starts here.
Daniel Bedingfield announced to perform in Dubai
British pop favourite Daniel Bedingfield is heading to Dubai this April, bringing a dose of early-2000s nostalgia to Bla Bla Dubai. See the dates and grab tickets here.
Etihad Airways named World’s Safest Airline in 2026
Etihad Airways has been named the world’s safest airline for 2026, marking the first time a Gulf carrier has topped the global list. The Abu Dhabi-based airline leads a ranking of 25 full-service airlines compiled by AirlineRatings.com, ahead of international giants like Cathay Pacific, Qantas and Qatar Airways. See the full list here.
The John Mayer concert for Saadiyat Nights was postponed
John Mayer was due to perform on January 24 as part of the incredible Saadiyat Nights series however it has been postponed. Don’t worry if you were due to go though as there has been a new date announced already. See the new date here.
Ounass is opening its first ever physical store
The much-loved Ounass website is opening a physical store and it’s coming to Dubai so you can shop the best brands IRL. Find out where.
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