With Dubai open for filming again, here are 10 movies shot in the UAE
Look ma, I’m on the big screen… The combination of futuristic cityscapes, wild otherworldly desert expanses and a talented pool of filmmaking professionals living right here – it’s no wonder the UAE plays the starring role in the staging of so many big-screen stories. These are just some of the most famous examples of the UAE, providing backdrops and stealing scenes. 18 of the best movies filmed in the UAE Gran Turismo (2023) 3 of 12 6-underground_iuZaSK 6 Underground Dune 3 in Abu Dhabi Dune 3 to be filmed in Abu Dhabi furious-7_F3oGRq Furious 7 independence-day-resurgence_e60KS8 Independence Day: Resurgence (2016)
Read moreTomorrow’s communities must heal us, not just house us
As cities expand at an unprecedented pace, Saeed Mohammed Al-Qatami, CEO of Deyaar Development, argues that urban development must move beyond conventional real estate thinking, placing wellness, community and sustainability at the core of future living The next era of urban development demands intention, where wellness, community and sustainability are inseparable foundations of life. As a new year begins, cities stand at the forefront of humanity’s greatest transformation. More than 4 billion people now live in urban centres, a number set to more than double by 2050, when nearly seven out of 10 people will call cities home. This extraordinary concentration has
Read moreM1 Run Dubai 2026 – 42-Floor Charity Stair Race at Media One
Leg day’s final boss: With an ascent of 42 floors, across more than 700 stairs and 100 per cent of the profits going to charity, the M1 Run at Media One is a fitness challenge with a difference Returning for its 12th edition on January 31, 2026 the M1 Run is a hot favourite with the city’s gel pack and Strava set. Upwardly mobile It’s a vertical race that pits runners against a 42 floor, calf-torching climb. And despite only spanning roughly 1.2km in length – every single step of that is an uphill struggle. Tickets start at just Dhs150,
Read moreBrilliant things to do in Dubai this weekend: January 16 to 18
Looking for things to do in Dubai this weekend? We’ve got you covered It’s time to kick back and start the weekend the right way. From fun-filled events and live entertainment to great food, family-friendly plans and things to do outdoors, here are the best things to do in Dubai from Friday, January 16 to Sunday, January 18 A new weekly ritual: Sundays at 73 at Mott 32 Mott 32 introduces Sundays at 73, a relaxed yet refined Sunday lunch, running every Sunday in January from 12.30pm to 4pm. Expect a three-course set menu showcasing modern Cantonese flavours. The meal
Read moreReservations are now open for cult favourite Barrafina’s Dubai restaurant
The beloved Spanish restaurant is set to debut in DIFC this January It might only be January, but Dubai is already gearing up for one of the most anticipated restaurant openings of the year: Barrafina. The much-loved, London-born Spanish restaurant will open in DIFC’s Gate Village on Monday January 26, and reservations are now open. Marking the first international opening of Barrafina in almost 20 years, Barrafina DIFC arrives under the umbrella of Anthem Hospitality Group, bringing with it the counter-dining magic that made the original a global favourite. With just 55 seats, this is an intentionally intimate affair, where
Read moreThe John Mayer concert for Saadiyat Nights has been postponed
He was due to perform this month John Mayer fans in the UAE are going to have to wait a little longer to see the star perform live as his Saadiyat Nights concert in Abu Dhabi has been postponed. The star was due to perform on January 24 as part of the incredible Saadiyat Nights series however don’t worry if you were due to go as there has been a new date announced already. The new date for the performance is February 15. For those with inquiries regarding tickets, including refunds, you can contact the customer service team within 7
Read moreBritish rock band Muse postpones Abu Dhabi concert
British rock band Muse postpones Abu Dhabi concert amid unforeseen tour disruptions Muse’s highly anticipated Abu Dhabi concert has been postponed. The British rock band’s upcoming show at Etihad Arena has been postponed due to what organisers described as “unforeseen circumstances”. The announcement was shared by Live Nation on social media. The post confirmed that Muse’s scheduled performances in India and South Africa have also been cancelled. In a message to fans, the band said the decision was a difficult one and not taken lightly. They apologised for the disappointment and thanked fans for their understanding. Live Nation said refunds
Read moreEmirates to launch flights to Helsinki, Finland
You will soon be able to book flights direct to Helsinki from Dubai with Emirates Emirates is expanding its reach across the globe and is connecting the hub of Dubai to even more places. 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. The service will operate with Emirates’ newest aircraft type, the A350, so you’ll also be able to fly Premium Economy
Read moreYas Super Street Challenge returns for Abu Dhabi’s biggest drag racing showdown
Yas Super Street Challenge that returns to Yas Marina Circuit with drag racing, food trucks and full throttle weekend vibes If your idea of a good weekend includes the smell of burning rubber, engines screaming at full tilt and the kind of tension you can feel in your chest, Yas Marina Circuit has plans for you. The Yas Super Street Challenge is back for 2026 and Round 1 kicks off this weekend, bringing Abu Dhabi’s homegrown drag racing scene roaring back to life. This is where everyday drivers with seriously fast machines line up on a proper drag strip and
Read moreThese iconic brunches in Dubai are worth the hype
Brunches in Dubai aren’t just meals, they’re iconic events, and these 12 prove exactly why the city is the global capital of weekend indulgence Brunches in Dubai are a weekend ritual and nowhere does it quite like this city. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy party with DJs and dancing, a refined culinary journey with five-star flair, or a relaxed afternoon with scenic views and top-tier bites, Dubai’s brunch scene has something for every palate and mood. From beachfront fiestas and Peruvian powerhouses to jungle-themed escapes and sophisticated rooftop affairs, these 12 iconic brunches capture the very best of what
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