The UAE has announced a new excise tax model for sweetened beverages, effective January 2026, where taxation will depend on sugar content. The move aligns with GCC-wide reforms and aims to create healthier consumption habits and fairer regulation

Eli Sharabi, once held by Hamas for 491 days, speaks of survival, unbearable loss, and the urgent need for peace. As Trump’s plan falters, Sharabi pleads for the release of remaining hostages and warns of war’s devastating consequences

Emirati fashion student Mariam Mohamed has been crowned Miss Universe UAE 2025 after a rigorous selection process. She will make history as the first Emirati contestant to represent the UAE at the global Miss Universe pageant in Thailand next month

Dubai’s dining scene takes to the outdoors with stunning terrace gardens that blend fine cuisine, lush greenery, and panoramic views. From Mediterranean escapes to desert chic, here are seven restaurants redefining alfresco dining in the city

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are buzzing this weekend with events ranging from luxury brunches and music festivals to desert spectacles and live concerts. Whether it’s food, culture, or nightlife, there’s a unique experience waiting for every taste and mood

The UAE is set for fair to partly cloudy skies on Thursday, with fog warnings in coastal regions. Temperatures will vary from 23°C to 42°C, while humidity and moderate winds are expected to affect parts of the country

The Global Sumud Flotilla continues its journey toward Gaza after claiming Israeli harassment at sea. With politicians, climate activists, and international backing aboard, tensions mount as Israel vows to stop the boats and foreign governments call for restraint

Phocuswright’s Middle East Travel Market Report 2025 reveals a tourism revolution driven by national investments, digital adoption, sustainability, and luxury demand, positioning the region as a global hub for culture-rich, high-spending experiences and intra-regional travel growth

In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral ties, the UAE and Trinidad and Tobago signed a mutual visa waiver agreement during the UN General Assembly, aiming to boost travel, diplomacy, and trade opportunities between the two nations

HDFC Bank’s Dubai International Financial Centre branch has been barred from taking new clients by DFSA, with restrictions on advisory and promotional activities. The bank emphasized the move won’t materially impact its global operations, amid regulatory probes into past controversies

Dubai Metro offers fans a hassle-free way to attend the Shabab Al Ahli vs Al Ain match. With parking expected to be limited, the RTA urges supporters to plan ahead and take the Metro directly to Stadium Station

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is in high-level talks to potentially lead a post-war transitional authority in Gaza, backed by the White House, UN, and Gulf nations, with the aim of stabilising governance before returning control to Palestinians