Did you know you’ve been paying a hidden tax?
A hidden tax you didn’t know you were paying and it’s showing up at checkout If your bills feel a little different lately, you’re not imagining it. As of January 1, the UAE’s sugar tax – a hidden tax many didn’t know about – now links prices to sugar content, not just the label. Diet drinks are getting cheaper, sugary ones a bit pricier, and your weekly shop might look very different From flat fees to sugar-based tax Since 2017, sweetened drinks in the UAE faced a flat 50% excise tax, no matter the sugar. That changed on January 1,
Read moreTake a look at Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach 1 expansion
Jumeirah Beach 1 expansion is 95% complete with 50% more space New walking and cycling tracks, and world-class leisure facilities, Jumeirah Beach 1 is set to offer residents and visitors an upgraded coastal experience from next month. Sheikh Hamdan reviews the project Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum recently visited the site to review progress. “I reviewed the Jumeirah Beach 1 development project by Dubai Municipality, part of the plan to upgrade public beach infrastructure. Aligned with the Quality of Life 2033 strategy and the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040, the project expands the beach area by 50%
Read moreDubai is about to experience its coldest weather this winter
The weather is feeling cooler and it’s only just beginning Dubai is set to experience its coldest winter weather of the season, with temperatures expected to dip further between January 10 and 22. According to meteorology and astronomy experts, the UAE is entering a traditionally cold period known as Dur Al Sittin, which is often linked to the chilliest days and nights of winter. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare. What is Dur Al Sittin? Dur Al Sittin is a well-known phase in the winter calendar across the UAE. Locals associate it with colder conditions, crisp mornings and
Read moreTry viral burgers from around the world this weekend at this burger festival in Dubai
The Dubai Burger Championship is on this weekend and you’ll want to come hungry Burger lovers will be thrilled, you can try viral ones from all over the world in one place this weekend and it’s right on your doorstep in Dubai. The Dubai Burger Championship is a festival of sorts that crowns the best burger and it’s on from January 8 to 11 2026. It’s bringing together top local and international burger creators in one competitive place. So what is actually happening in the Dubai Burger Championship? Some of the world’s biggest burger brands are coming together in one
Read more14 amazing things to do in Dubai this January
Kick off 2026 with the best things to do in Dubai this January Dubai is buzzing this month with live music, comedy nights, beachfront dining and cultural events. Here’s your guide to the top things to do in Dubai this January. A classic Agatha Christie mystery comes to life on stage Image: Queen Elizabeth 2 website Crime fiction fans won’t want to miss this live stage adaptation of an Agatha Christie classic, performed aboard the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2. Set in a snowbound guesthouse, the story invites audiences to piece together the clues and uncover the truth behind a series
Read moreYour guide to moving to Dubai: tips, tricks, and hacks
These are the essential tips, tricks and hacks for moving to Dubai that’ll help you hit the ground running now that your wheels have just touched the runway Welcome to the adventure of moving to Dubai. With sky-piercing towers, endless sunshine, and a lifestyle that fuses luxury with non-stop action, it’s no wonder you’ve made the move. But beyond the glitz and glam, Dubai runs on its own rhythm, and navigating it takes a little know-how. Whether you’re here for work, chasing the sun, or starting a brand new chapter, these tips and hacks will help you settle in quickly,
Read moreThe Rage returns to Umm Al Emarat Park with a Tokyo-themed festival
The Rage brings Tokyo flair, street food and winter entertainment to Umm Al Emarat Park this January Umm Al Emarat Park knows how to throw a crowd-pleaser. The Rage returns to Umm Al Emarat Park for its fourth year from January 7 to 11. This year, the festival borrows its energy from Tokyo. The theme, We Meet in Tokyo, taps into the city’s creativity and street culture and reshapes it for Abu Dhabi, with five evenings of food, fashion, entertainment and hands-on activities. The gates open at 4pm and the park stays lively until 11pm. More than 100 retail, food
Read moreThe January sales in the UAE you won’t want to miss
If your wallet is feeling a little bit lighter this January, these sales in the UAE will help January is a time to reset, it’s a time for New Year’s resolutions and if one of yours is to spend less money then you’ll want to check out these sales in the UAE. There’s clothing, homeware, beauty and so much more that will save you money in the long run. 6th Street 40% to 80% off is the discount you can benefit from when you shop on 6th Street, there the GCC’s first phygital store at Dubai Hills Mall or you
Read more10 new restaurants in Dubai you’ll want to try in 2026
New restaurants in Dubai? Here’s what’s cooking Is Dubai a foodie city? Short answer: yes, very much so. Every new restaurant that opens brings its own story – a unique concept or a twist that makes it stand out. With a new wave of openings across the city in 2026, here are 10 new restaurants in Dubai to check out. Click through the gallery 3 of 12 Nobu One Za’abeel Image: Provided Gymkhana Image: Gymkhana Instagram DOTS Image: platinumlist website L’Avenue Image: L’Avenue Instagram Neo Temaki Image: Neo Temaki Instagram Osaka Nikkei Image: Osaka Nikkei Instagram Scott’s Image: Scott’s
Read moreWhere to celebrate Orthodox Christmas in Abu Dhabi
Celebrate Orthodox Christmas in Abu Dhabi with these festive brunches and dinner buffets Here’s where to celebrate Orthodox Christmas in Abu Dhabi this week, whether you want a long lunch, a proper dinner or an all-out festive spread with music and a bit of sparkle. From beachfront brunches to cosy buffets for family gatherings, Abu Dhabi has Orthodox Christmas well covered. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island Image supplied If you like your celebrations stretched over two days, this one delivers. Orthodox Christmas Eve starts with a traditional dinner at Turquoise, followed by live music and a party in the courtyard. The
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