Good, clean, wholesome vibes only People think they know Dubai. A city often presented as the poster boy for sky-spearing luxury and future-proof urban glamour. But beyond its gold-paved streets lies a treasure infinitely more sublime. The real Dubai is built from bones steeped in culture, is framed by otherworldly vistas and offers adventures that speak directly to your soul. And because this February we’ll be able to celebrate both the introspective wonder of Ramadan and the ode to interconnectedness that is Valentine’s Day – there really is no better time to dig down to our city’s truest, most authentic

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The best places to put your laces through their paces and join races in Dubai There are lots of reasons to start running, and exploring the best running routes in Dubai is a great place to begin. It’s a great all-round form of exercise, you can do it almost anywhere with minimal equipment, it gets you outside and (heavily) breathing fresh air, avoiding pursuing bears, and making tight connection times in unfamiliar airports. There are only really two main reasons why you shouldn’t – you’re physically unable to and it looks hard. And we’d argue the second of those is

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Sponsored: Perfect for breakfast through to dinner If you’re spending your day shopping in Dubai Mall, or maybe you’re bringing visitors to experience the fountains, deciding where to eat is often tricky. AMAYA is a destination that works for all occasions, from morning through to late evening. Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, the restaurant pairs contemporary interiors with one of its biggest draws, sweeping views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. You’ll get VIP access to some of the most sought after views in the world. The space strikes a nice balance between modern and comfortable,

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Pepperoni Comedy Club is where pizza meets punchlines smack bang in the centre of 25 Jump Street The spot Images: Provided Rikas Hospitality has been rapidly expanding its Dubai empire, but Pepperoni Comedy Club feels like a left turn, in a good way. This is a casual, clever pivot into Americana, done in collaboration with radio heavyweight Kris Fade. The result is a refreshing diner-comedy club hybrid. They’ve chosen their address wisely, too. 25 Jump Street is already earning its stripes as the city’s first licensed street. On launch night, the strip was buzzing, and Pepperoni felt like the epicentre.

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Atlanta star Gunna and UK rapper Nemzzz bring serious heat to BRED Abu Dhabi this April at Yas BRED Abu Dhabi is gearing up for its return to the capital, and organisers have confirmed two new names for the line-up. US rapper Gunna and rising Manchester star Nemzzz will perform live on April 24, adding fresh firepower to this year’s festival. From April 22 to 26, Yas Marina Circuit ditches the petrol fumes for street culture and turns into a full-blown playground. Think music, fashion, art, sport, gaming and food all packed into one space. It feels less like a

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Here’s what parents need to know In December, the UAE’s Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council announced new age rules for admissions to FS1 and FS2 would be introduced from the 2026–2027 academic year. As per the revised guidelines, December 31 is now the cut-off date for school admission, rather than August 31, giving children more time to reach the required age before starting school. Note, the revised cut-off ages apply to children following the British curriculum only. However, following some confusion from parents, the UAE’s Ministry of Education has shared an updated guide to help parents prepare for

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And tickets are selling out fast If you’ve been meaning to see it, this is your cue. After a spellbinding run that’s had Dubai Opera audiences defying gravity night after night, WICKED the Musical is taking its final bow in the city this weekend. With just a handful of performances left, it’s the last chance to experience the untold story of the witches of Oz live on stage before the curtain falls. If you’re still thinking about it, consider this your friendly nudge. Tickets are disappearing faster than a flying broomstick. Blink and it’ll be Sunday night, the final curtain

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The third edition of the half-marathon will take runners along a brand new 21km route at the iconic destination Looking to take on your next running challenge now that the Dubai Marathon and Burj2Burj are done? Then mark your calendars for Sunday 19 April 2026, when runners from across the UAE and beyond will descend on the iconic Expo City Dubai for a high-energy day of endurance, community spirit, and finish-line feels. Whether you’re chasing a PB or simply in it for the vibes, it’s set to be a day full of fitness and fun. Set against one of the most

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Minimalist Japanese dining with a side of vinyl-level cool The spot Dubai Opera quietly levelled up its dining credentials late last year with the arrival of Tezukuri, a poised and polished addition to the District. The concept comes courtesy of an all-female power pairing: Neha Mishra of Kinoya fame, alongside Panchali Mahendra of Atelier House Hospitality (11 Woodfire). Together, they’ve created what’s billed as a “modern Japanese temaki and listening bar”. The main dining room is minimalist. Warm blonde wood wraps the counter, where most guests perch front-row, watching chefs work with near-monastic focus. Lighting is low and flattering, creating

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