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If you’re a fan of Korean cinema, this one’s for you. The Korean Film Festival is returning for its ninth edition in the UAE — with screenings lined up in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This year’s theme is “music”, with a curated lineup of films ranging from those with unforgettable original soundtracks to others where music plays a central role.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Korean Cultural Center UAE🇦🇪🇰🇷 (@kcc_uae) Organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the UAE and the Korean Cultural Center, the festival will take place at Manarat...

Riyadh’s dining scene continues to grow, and the arrival of Abou el Sid adds a rich cultural note to the mix. Known for serving authentic Egyptian cuisine for over two decades, this beloved Cairo-born restaurant has officially opened in The Esplanade, following its debut in Jeddah. With interiors inspired by a traditional Egyptian household, the new Riyadh branch balances nostalgia and comfort. The space features patterned tiled floors, minimalist wooden furniture, and soft turquoise couches. Walls adorned with retro photos and soft lighting create a relaxed and familiar atmosphere, enhanced by Tanoura dance performances during select evenings.     View...

Kuwait has confirmed a one-day public holiday for government employees on Thursday, June 26, in observance of the Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year. This applies to all ministries, public bodies, and government institutions. The holiday marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year, 1447 AH, and commemorates the Hijrah — the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina. This moment is seen as a defining event in Islamic history and is traditionally observed with quiet reflection, family time, and prayers. Following the Thursday break, regular working hours for the public sector will resume on Sunday,...

Get ready for a night where music becomes a bridge between worlds. The Yemenis Orchestra, led by renowned conductor Mohammed Al Qahoom, is set to grace the stage of Dubai Opera on December 14, 2025, in a concert that promises to be as soulful as it is unforgettable. This isn’t just a musical performance, it’s a celebration of culture, identity, and heritage brought to life through symphonic beauty. The Man Behind the Magic: Mohammed Al Qahoom Hailing from the historic city of Tarim in Yemen’s Hadhramaut region, Mohammed Al Qahoom is more than a maestro, he’s a cultural visionary. Trained...

Commuters in Dubai can now enjoy internet access at 43 public transport locations, thanks to a new initiative by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in collaboration with e&. The rollout includes 21 bus stations and 22 marine transport stations, offering free Wi-Fi to anyone using these facilities. The service is available to passengers using smartphones, tablets, or laptops, enabling them to stay connected while waiting for their ride or during their daily journey. This move is part of RTA’s broader effort to support digital transformation across its services. By enhancing access to online connectivity, the initiative aims to improve...

Saudi Arabia’s capital is undergoing a major transformation, and The Avenues – Riyadh is set to be one of its centrepieces. Inspired by the popular destination of the same name in Kuwait, this massive development will become a key spot for shopping, hospitality, business and culture in the Kingdom. The Avenues – Riyadh will take shape in the north of Riyadh, at the intersection of King Salman Road and King Fahad Road. The project will cover more than 1.8 million square metres, positioning it as one of the largest malls in the region. The design of the complex follows Salmani...

The UAE has climbed to 5th place in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. This puts the country ahead of major global economies like the United States, Germany, and Sweden — and marks a steady rise from its 28th position in 2009. In the 2025 results, the UAE secured: 1st place in absence of bureaucracy 2nd — in policy adaptability 4th — in government efficiency The annual ranking, conducted by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), assesses 69 countries based on key indicators including economic performance, business efficiency, infrastructure, and government effectiveness. At the top of the list were...

The Wizarding World is heading to the UAE. For the first time ever, Harry Potter: The Exhibition is coming to Abu Dhabi, making its regional debut this summer. The immersive experience opens Friday, July 25, at Manarat Al Saadiyat on Saadiyat Island and will run until Sunday, September 14. This is the first time the exhibition lands not only in the UAE but across the entire Middle East. Fans of the books, films, and Fantastic Beasts universe can expect a multi-sensory, highly interactive journey through one of the most beloved franchises in the world.     View this post on...

Looking for a unique way to spend your weekend? Head to Abu Dhabi’s Al Quaa Desert on Saturday, June 21, 2025, for an unforgettable stargazing event — and yes, transport is available from Dubai. Al Quaa is one of the darkest sky spots in the UAE, which means it offers some of the clearest views of the Milky Way. On this special night, experts from Dubai Astronomy Group will guide participants through a fully immersive session, complete with storytelling, sky mapping, and astrophotography.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dubai Astronomy Group (@dubaiastronomy) The...

A big change is on the horizon for travellers in and around the Gulf. A new unified visa — officially called the GCC Grand Tours Visa — is expected to launch soon, making it easier to explore the entire Gulf region on a single application. While an exact launch date has not yet been confirmed, the new process is anticipated to be available sometime this year. Approved in 2023 and now in its final planning stages, the visa will grant access to: United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Bahrain Kuwait Oman Qatar Once launched, the GCC Grand Tours Visa will simplify...