This cool winter pop-up returns with a futuristic glow-up
Street food, emerging designers, live beats and immersive experiences Love the foodie pop-ups in Dubai? Everyone’s favourite e& MOTB (Market Outside The Box) has returned for a new edition running for a limited time only until January 11, 2026. The experience is part of the Dubai Shopping Festival. The 13th edition is taking place at the iconic Dubai Design District (d3) Waterfront with a redesigned layout, immersive futuristic activations, food and beverage offerings, shopping opportunities, and plenty of fun entertainment. The best news? It’s free entry. Here’s everything you need to know about e& MOTB Dining and retail As with
Read moreJetour leads the desert experience at Liwa International Festival
Sponsored: An edition packed with thrilling adventures, timeless traditions and activities for all ages in the heart of the desert Liwa Festival is one of the UAE’s most anticipated annual events, known for blending adrenaline, culture, and family-friendly fun. Each year, it draws thousands of visitors seeking a unique mix of heritage, motorsport, and entertainment, all set against the golden dunes of Al Dhafra. This year, the festival delivered an exceptional programme of cultural showcases, high-energy competitions, nightly performances, and family-friendly attractions, celebrating the UAE’s deep connection to its desert traditions. And Jetour was front and centre of the action
Read moreSpa review: The Spa at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
The Spa at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is a decadent escape that leaves skin glowing and the mind blissfully quiet in a truly iconic setting A spa day seems like an ideal way to start a new year and The Spa at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is the place to be. The Emirates Palace is woven into the fabric of Abu Dhabi. Grand, unmistakable and quietly confident, it has hosted presidents, royalty and milestone moments for years. If Abu Dhabi had a crown jewel, it would be the Emirates Palace. Dripping in gold and grandeur, it’s where luxury is a way
Read moreWill Dubai rents fall in 2026?
A new chapter for Dubai rents in 2026 Will Dubai rents fall in 2026? It’s the question renters are quietly hoping for and landlords are watching closely. The short answer: in some places, yes – but not across the board. Dubai’s rental market is settling into a new rhythm, shaped by seasonal movement, rising vacancy and a growing base of long-term residents who are here to stay. A calmer phase for Dubai’s rental market After years of fast growth, Dubai’s rental market is slowing down in 2026. The city’s population is approaching four million, and affordability is finally part of
Read moreDon’t miss these Abu Dhabi festivals before they wrap up
From glowing art trails to desert thrills, these Abu Dhabi festivals are closing soon. Catch them while you can If you are looking for ways to kick-start the year without committing to resolutions just yet, Abu Dhabi festivals have you covered. Whether you prefer glowing night walks or desert adventures and family-friendly fun, these are worth catching before they pack up and move on. MOTN Image supplied MOTN, the city’s favourite playground ends with weekend. There are rides, games, workshops, live shows and a food line-up that makes decision-making very hard. Take the family, your appetite and comfy shoes. Location: Abu
Read more5 fun things to do in Dubai this weekend: January 2 to 4
The first weekend of 2026 is here, discover the best things to do in Dubai Happy New Year! Dubai is buzzing this weekend with plenty of exciting activities to kick off the year. From fireworks and foodie adventures to stargazing under the Wolf Supermoon and immersive experiences, there’s something for everyone. Taking part in Dry January? We’ve also rounded up the best spots for alcohol-free mocktails to sip, relax, and celebrate the weekend in style. Cheers to Dry January Image: What’s On Archive If you’re taking part in Dry January or even if you just want a delicious, alcohol-free treat,
Read moreUAE public holidays in 2026 (and how to maximise your leave)
Map your dream trips around the magic of UAE public holidays 2026 Back at your desks for the first working day of 2026, and wondering when the next public holiday is? Don’t worry! You aren’t alone, and we have the answers ready for you. From Eid Al Fitr to Islamic New Year, here are all the UAE public holidays in 2026 (and how to make the most of them) Predicted public holidays in 2026 You can expect at least 12 official public holidays in 2026, some of which could turn into longer weekends if you time them right. While the
Read moreFlying with Emirates this weekend? Here’s what you need to know
Emirates warns of peak travel from January 2 to 5 The airline has confirmed a major post-holiday travel rush at Dubai International Airport (DXB), with thousands of passengers expected to depart and arrive over the busy weekend. To help travellers avoid delays, Emirates has issued travel advice for passengers flying during the peak period. From arriving earlier than usual to using remote check-in services, here’s everything you need to know before heading to the airport. January 2 to 5 will be the busiest days Emirates says the first weekend of January will see extremely high passenger numbers as travellers return
Read moreSip your way through Dry January with these mocktails in Dubai
With these mocktails, you won’t miss a thing Doing Dry January? First of all, we’re rooting for you. But to give you a helping hand, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s most creative non-alcoholic concoctions. These mocktails not only look stunning but also deliver big on taste – perfect for Dry January. Genso at Mimi Kakushi Want something refreshing? Pick Genso for a balance of crafted flavours with notes of matcha, strawberry, yuzu, and coffee. They say it’s contemporary, alcohol-free, and totally unforgettable. Location: Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah 2 Operating hours: 12pm to 2am Contact: 04 379 4811, @mimikakushi
Read moreWhere to see fireworks in Dubai in January 2026
Pair the sparkling display with a delicious treat Stayed home on NYE to dodge the traffic and missed the fireworks in Dubai? Don’t worry, you still have a few chances to catch dazzling displays. In January, you can see stunning fireworks displays every night at one of the city’s best new alfresco destinations – Marsa Boulevard. They light up the skies daily at 8.30pm right through until Sunday, January 11, 2026. Tip: Go early to catch the sunset vibes and to nab a spot at one of the restaurants by The Creek where you can sit and enjoy the show
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