A legendary tale: Antar and Abla captivates Abu Dhabi this weekend Arabic Opera: Antar and Abla opens to the public on December 12, but a lucky crowd got a first look last night. Abu Dhabi’s first Arabic Opera took over the International Tennis Centre turning it into something far grander than its usual sporting self. Image supplied The preview showed just how much craft sits behind this production. The Lanzhou Symphony Orchestra carried the story with a full, textured score that tied neatly into the movement on stage. Performers, dancers and visuals together with the mix of light, projection and

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New Year’s Day is officially a holiday in the UAE The best way to start the year? With a well-earned day off. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has confirmed that New Year’s Day 2026 will be a public holiday for all federal government employees, giving the nation a welcome chance to ring in the new year with a little extra downtime. According to the official announcement, Thursday, January 1, 2026, will be a fully paid holiday across federal entities and the public sector according to Khaleej Times.  That means a long weekend of celebrations, family time, or simply

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A calm, coastal escape that helps you loosen your shoulders and find your breath again Some places soften the world the moment you cross the threshold. Talise Spa, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island does that with no effort at all. One step inside and the chaos of the day slips off your shoulders like a forgotten scarf. Saadiyat’s coastline sits just beyond the windows and suddenly you understand why people talk about wellness as if it’s a calling. For Abu Dhabi’s first Talise Spa, it feels like it arrived exactly when we needed a place to breathe. This is a place built

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These Dubai Christmas markets are the perfect dose of holiday cheer Forget snow-covered streets and cosy European squares – right here in Dubai, the holiday spirit is alive amidst the swaying palm trees, twinkling lights, and bustling markets filled with festive cheer. From glittering decorations to spotting Santa riding a camel (and even an abra), the city transforms into a surprisingly magical Christmas wonderland. Whether you’re a holiday enthusiast or just curious about seasonal traditions in unexpected places, these Christmas markets in Dubai offer a celebration like no other. Here are five Christmas markets in Dubai for the whole family 

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Abu Dhabi’s Mother of the Nation Festival returns with a month of food, rides and entertainment along the Corniche Abu Dhabi’s most beloved family festival is back, and this time it’s going big. The Mother of the Nation Festival (MOTN) is back this winter to light up the capital with weeks of fun, flavour, and fireworks. Kicking off on this week, the ninth edition of MOTN promises a full month of excitement along the Abu Dhabi Corniche until January 4, 2026. Get ready for dazzling lights, international acts, art that makes you stop and stare, and rides that’ll make your

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Some people will be left disappointed by these huge stores closing in the UAE Christmas shoppers are out in force recently and will be until the morning of the 25th (we see you, men). However this may be your last chance to grab anything from this big retail brands as they are closing their doors in the UAE. Pottery Barn The American upscale home furnishing chain announced it has closed it’s doors in the UAE. The Pottery Barn website is not in service now, however as the brand attempts to clear stock, the stores are still open in Dubai Hills

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