The United Arab Emirates woke up on New Year's Day 2026 with a sense of pride and wonder. Last night, from the glittering shores of Dubai to the picturesque coastline of Ras Al Khaimah, the nation delivered some of the most breathtaking celebrations the world has ever witnessed. With record-breaking drone formations, massive fireworks displays, and innovative laser choreography, the UAE didn't just ring in the new year—it redefined what's possible in large-scale pyrotechnic a

As December 31st approaches, Dubai residents and visitors face the same delightful dilemma: should you brave the crowds at Burj Khalifa or settle into a cosy setup at home with friends and family? We're advocates for the latter, especially when you've got the perfect movie lineup to complement your NYE celebrations. Here are five unmissable films that capture the magic, romance, and humor of ringing in a fresh year. 1. When Harry Met Sally (1989) This is the definitive New Ye

Dubai transforms into a glittering celebration hub on New Year's Eve, offering an unparalleled array of experiences to ring in 2026. Whether you're seeking an intimate dinner with iconic views, a high-energy nightclub experience, or a budget-friendly fireworks display, the emirate delivers on every front. The Iconic Burj Khalifa Fireworks Experience The undisputed centerpiece of Dubai's New Year's Eve is the spectacular Burj Khalifa fireworks display—a breathtaking 20-minute

Imagine shaking off the Christmas morning haze with a plate piled high with smoky ribs, festive turkey trimmings, and a cocktail that packs a holiday punch—all while the Ras Al Khaimah sun dips into the Arabian Gulf. That's the magic of Festive CLAWmas at CLAW BBQ RAK, the ultimate post-Christmas weekend escape turning Marjan Island into a BBQ bonanza. If you're in the UAE craving a blend of Southern American swagger and festive flair, this hidden gem is calling your name. Ne

Verdict Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 2 delivers a pulse-pounding escalation of horror and heart, perfectly timed as Netflix UAE's post-Christmas gift that has fans diving straight into the Upside Down on December 26. Episodes 5-7 ramp up the stakes with Vecna's chilling schemes and emotional gut-punches, making it essential viewing for longtime followers craving closure – though it demands you've binged Volume 1 first. The Good What hits hardest in Volume 2 is the masterfu

Imagine stepping into a tranquil oasis amid Dubai's towering skyscrapers, where the gentle sound of cascading water and the aroma of freshly prepared chapatis welcome you. This is Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple, Dubai’s hidden gem that embodies cultural harmony and architectural brilliance, drawing over 50,000 Sikh residents and curious visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of the UAE, this Gurudwara tells a story of perseverance and generosity. Back in the early 2000s, Dubai's

Imagine standing atop a rugged hilltop, heart pounding from the climb, as the vast Arabian Gulf sparkles below and the majestic Hajar Mountains frame your horizon. That's the magic of Dhayah Fort in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the UAE's last remaining hilltop fortress, now awakening as the ultimate hidden gem for winter adventurers. With its epic 239-step ascent delivering jaw-dropping 360-degree vistas, this isn't just a hike—it's a portal to RAK's resilient past and breathtaking

Christmas 2025 in Dubai has wrapped up, and the emirate's festive season proved to be nothing short of spectacular. As decorations come down and the holiday buzz settles, it's worth reflecting on how Dubai transformed itself into a winter wonderland that set new standards for celebration, entertainment, and togetherness during the festive period. The Winter Wonderland That Captivated Millions Dubai's shopping malls became the beating heart of Christmas celebrations this year.

The Great Flood: Netflix UAE’s #1 New Disaster Epic Captivates Post-Christmas Audiences with Jaw-Dropping Visuals and Survival Thrills Verdict The Great Flood crashes onto Netflix like a tidal wave, delivering pulse-pounding disaster thrills wrapped in a sci-fi mystery that keeps you guessing until the final frame. Directed by Kim Byung-woo and starring Kim Da-mi in a powerhouse performance, this South Korean epic has skyrocketed to #1 on Netflix UAE charts right after Christ

Verdict Goodbye June is a triumph of intimate storytelling, blending raw family tensions with surprising warmth and humor amid grief. Kate Winslet's directorial debut on Netflix UAE delivers a cathartic holiday drama that's perfect for adult family gatherings, earning it a resounding recommendation for thoughtful pre-Christmas viewing. The Good - Stellar Ensemble Cast: The film boasts an powerhouse lineup, with Helen Mirren shining as the quick-witted matriarch June, who face

Verdict Orfali Bros Bistro isn't just Dubai's hottest ticket—it's the undisputed king of MENA dining in 2025, clinching the top spot on the 50 Best Restaurants list for the third year running while holding onto its Michelin star with effortless flair. This family-run gem from Syrian brothers Mohammad, Wassim, and Omar Orfali delivers a boundary-breaking menu that's equal parts nostalgic, innovative, and utterly addictive. If you're chasing bold Mediterranean vibes with global

If you only know Dubai for its rooftop lounges and late-night brunches, the idea of a nighttime flamingo watch might sound unexpected. Yet just a short drive from Downtown, hundreds of pale pink flamingos gather in the wetlands of Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, framed by the glittering city skyline – a surreal contrast that feels more documentary than desert metropolis. While the official sanctuary hours are firmly daytime, the wetlands themselves sit right off Dubai’s road

If you think Dubai weekend breaks are only for five‑star budgets and rooftop infinity pools, Al Barsha is about to change your mind. Tucked just behind Mall of the Emirates, this low‑key district quietly offers what winter travellers really want: affordable hotels, big‑ticket entertainment on the doorstep, and quick beach access—without taxi receipts that make you wince. Why Al Barsha works for winter weekends Dubai’s winter season is peak "out and about" time—blue skies, coo

There is a moment, as the wooden dhow noses away from the tiny Al Rams jetty, when Ras Al Khaimah’s rugged mountains fall behind you and the water turns to glass. The engine hums, the winter sun softens, and the mangroves close in as you glide towards a floating wooden platform set in the calm lagoon. This is Suwaidi Pearls Farm – the Gulf’s historic pearling story, brought back to life – and you are on your way to hunt for real Arabian pearls. A Living Museum on the Water Su

Verdict The Anker Solix Balcony Solar + Battery Kit is one of the most practical tech upgrades UAE apartment and villa residents can buy right now if they’re serious about cutting DEWA bills without messy electrical work. With efficient panels, a robust LiFePO4 battery, and smart power management, it turns the region’s brutal sun into something that finally benefits your wallet. It is not cheap up front, but for medium-to-heavy electricity users, the long-term savings and ene

Imagine trading the chaos of city fireworks for a glamorous retro escape under Fujairah’s starlit sky, where fire dancers ignite the night, a pulsating DJ spins golden-era hits, and an endless beachfront buffet tempts every taste bud. That’s the promise of InterContinental Fujairah Resort’s Retro New Year’s Eve Gala on December 31—a nostalgic nod to disco decadence meets modern luxury, perfectly poised to launch 2026 with unforgettable flair. Nestled on the pristine shores of

Benoit Blanc is back, and he's sharper than ever in *Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery*, Rian Johnson's third whodunnit masterpiece that's currently ruling Netflix UAE viewing lists. This isn't just another sequel—it's a bold, philosophical twist on the murder mystery formula, blending razor-sharp twists with an all-star cast that delivers non-stop intrigue. If you're craving a smart, stylish thriller to binge this weekend, hit play without hesitation. The Good Let's sta

On the edge of Abu Dhabi, where the skyline gives way to sand and silence, the city’s glow fades into the rear-view mirror. Out in Al Wathba, the road runs dark, the air cools a few precious degrees, and a different kind of nightlife flickers to life. Instead of VIP lounges and laser shows, there are constellations, meteors and the Moon’s craters in high definition. This is Al Sadeem Observatory, and on any clear evening it feels less like a science facility and more like Abu

Just when Dubai’s winter evenings start to feel pleasantly crisp, Expo City’s Al Wasl Plaza turns into something out of a snow globe. Under the iconic dome, twinkling lights wrap palm trees, faux snow drifts across pathways, and the sound of carols and live music spills out from every corner. Families arrive in matching festive jumpers, little ones clutching hot chocolate, while the towering tree at the heart of the plaza becomes the unofficial meeting point of the season. Wi

Just after sunset in Fujairah, when the heat finally slips away and the Hajar Mountains turn a deep indigo, the adrenaline is only just getting started. Instead of the usual mall crawl or late‑night coffee run, locals and weekenders are clipping into pedals and lacing up hiking boots, ready to explore a network of trails that now come alive after dark. Fujairah Adventure Park, already a hub for outdoor lovers, has quietly transformed its mountain bike and hiking network into