
Traffic diversions in Mirdif for Dubai Metro Blue Line works
The changes affect the area near City Centre Mirdif, where the roundabout at the intersection of 5th and 8th Street will be closed.
Traffic will now be diverted from 5th to 8th Street toward the mall, and in the opposite direction toward Algeria Street.
Alternative access has been arranged for mall visitors, and a U-turn has been added near Ghoroob Square to help ease traffic flow from City Centre Mirdif Street.
Drivers are urged to plan their routes to avoid delays.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by ARN News Centre (@arnnewscentre)

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Zawya
3 hours ago
- Zawya
Hala reports strong H1 growth driven by operational efficiency and customer focus
Ras Al Khaimah trips grow 11.3% as Hala users rise 15% Hala adds 250 vehicles in H1; 600 more planned 90% of Hala fleet now hybrid; EV trips cut 272.61 metric tons CO₂e Dubai, UAE – Hala, the region's leading e-hailing taxi service and a joint venture between the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Careem, has reported strong performance in the first half of 2025, driven by solid growth in taxi trips, enhanced service quality, and continued progress on sustainability and operational efficiency. Growth and Performance According to Hala's operational data, trips during peak months in Dubai increased by 12%, alongside a 10% rise in active users, indicating steady and healthy demand for reliable, on-demand transportation. In Ras Al Khaimah, a similar pattern emerged, with trip volumes up 11.3% and user numbers increasing by 15%. This growth mirrors wider mobility trends across the UAE, where tourism has remained strong, domestic travel continues to rise, and residents are increasingly turning to e-hailing to complement existing transport options. As city infrastructure evolves to accommodate this momentum, Hala's ability to scale supply without compromising performance or reliability reinforces its role as a core part of the region's urban transport network. Importantly, this growth has not come at the cost-of-service quality. Customer satisfaction remained consistently high at 4.9 out of 5, backed by 98% of all rated trips being marked 'Good' or better - a direct reflection of the professionalism, courtesy, and local knowledge of Hala's captains. Even during periods of high demand, Hala maintained an average estimated time of arrival of under 3 minutes in peak areas and delivered a 93% trip fulfilment rate. Expansion & Sustainability Efforts Hala also expanded its fleet by 250 vehicles during H1, with a further 600 set to be deployed in the coming months. As part of its push toward greener mobility, the company also introduced four new electric vehicles, bringing the overall fleet composition to 90% hybrid. Trips completed by Hala EVs led to an estimated emissions reduction of 272.61 metric tons of CO₂e. By increasing the availability of low-emission vehicles, Hala is making sustainable transport choices more accessible to riders while contributing to broader environmental goals. Operational Consistency Additionally, operational performance showed clear improvements according to the data. Customer contact rates dropped by 13%, low-rated trips (1–3 stars) declined by 25%, and cancellations fell by 17%. These gains were driven by initiatives such as increased taxi supply, closer coordination with franchise partners, and customer experience enhancements, including hygiene standards and curated in-car fragrances, developed through a partnership with fragrance brand Rituals. To help maintain this level of consistency, Hala is continuously investing in Captain training. Over 2,600 new Captains were onboarded in H1 and trained across operational and service modules, while more than 6,000 existing Captains completed refresher training. The sessions focused on the overall customer experience and ride quality, which contributed directly to improved trip ratings and reduced cancellations. Commenting on the strong H1 results, Khaled Nuseibeh, CEO of Hala, said: 'We're proud of the momentum achieved in H1, but more importantly, we remain focused on continuous improvement. These results reflect our commitment to raising the bar for mobility in every city we serve. Whether it's through Captain Care, listening to our riders, or investing in greener mobility, we are scaling in a way that is sustainable, responsive, and responsible.' Captain Well-being A cornerstone of Hala's growth is its emphasis on the well-being of its Captains, who benefit from ongoing development opportunities such as regular training on safety, tech, and service standards, alongside support mechanisms for physical and mental well-being. Top-performing Captains are regularly recognised and rewarded, while flexible scheduling options and financial support programmes are in place to help them balance their personal and professional lives. As demand for tech-enabled, reliable transport continues to grow, Hala remains focused on delivering measurable impact across convenience, service quality, and environmental responsibility. Integrated within the Careem app, Hala continues to play a key role in strengthening urban mobility in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. About Hala Hala is Dubai's most convenient e-hailing taxi solution, easily booked through the Careem app. A joint venture between Careem and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Hala leverages Careem's ride-hailing technology and the local knowledge of the RTA to provide the most reliable and convenient rides across Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. With a motivation to continuously elevate customer experience in public transportation, Hala has unlocked this incredible region by keeping Dubai connected and moving. Media Contact: Tessy Mathew at Q Communications Tessy.m@


Campaign ME
3 hours ago
- Campaign ME
Virgin Connect taps into global travel connectivity for summer campaign
Virgin Connect has introduced a timely, insight-led campaign for its flagship travel eSIM product, Virgin Connect Roam. Based on in-depth consumer behavior, the campaign is built around a core truth: mobile connectivity is now a travel essential, on par with passports, accommodation, and itineraries. The campaign aims to communicate how Roam's eSIM puts a stop to last-minute stress, missed bookings or the inability to stay in touch during crucial moments when traveling. The work aims to reframe connectivity as a core travel essential, enabling travelers to feel confident, connected, and in control wherever they go. Through real-life scenarios, from airport arrivals to exploring new cities, the campaign highlights how Roam delivers not just signal, but peace of mind, freedom, and shared experiences worth remembering. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virgin Connect (@virginconnect) 'At Virgin Connect, we are not just offering connectivity; we are delivering flexibility, affordability and simplicity,' said Walid Omar, Group Chief Product Officer. 'Roam was built to amplify travel experiences, keeping travelers connected so they can focus on the moments that matter most.' The campaign, developed in-house by the Beyond ONE – Virgin Connect team, aims to set the telecommunications brand apart through its consistent community-first mindset. By merging a seamless travel eSIM offering and emotionally intelligent storytelling across multiple touchpoints, Roam aims to position itself as the preferred choice for Gen Z and young Millennials across the GCC: digital natives who expect simplicity, value, and cultural relevance in every decision they make. Furthermore, the campaign will activate across high-summer outbound markets including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait with multilingual creative in English, Arabic, and Spanish. This includes a content-rich mix of AV, mobile-first formats, and social-native assets to ensure strong engagement across the platforms where travel planning lives. The brand has extended the campaign by partnering with popular regional travel content creators. The Virgin Connect Roam eSIM offers access to mobile data in over 190 countries. Users can activate tailored travel plans in seconds via the Virgin Connect Roam app. From regional bundles to global passes, they can track usage and stay in control before takeoff or mid-journey. The latest campaign from Virgin Connect Roam aims not to just change how the GCC connects; but reshape what travel feels like. Credits: Client: Beyond ONE – Virgin Connect Roam Group CMO: Sonya Abdo Group VP Brand: Daniela Caccia Director, Go-To-Market: Shiwa Safari Director, Commercial: Mian Taimoor Ahmad Director, PR: Layal Elbily Strategy and Creative Development: In-house by Group Beyond ONE marketing team Senior Designer: Mirna Abu Aita Senior Copywriter: Caroline Feghaly Assets development: Dotspace Agency


Emirates Woman
7 hours ago
- Emirates Woman
7 free nature spots to visit this summer, from hidden mountains to pristine beaches
Staying in the UAE for the upcoming summer season? Skip the crowded malls and predictable staycation spots – the real magic lies just beyond the city limits. While everyone's scrambling for brunch reservations, you could be kayaking through turquoise mountain waters, walking through whispering mangrove forests, or discovering surreal salt lakes that look straight out of a fantasy novel. Best part? All these experiences come with a price tag of zero dirhams. This summer, trade skyscrapers for starry skies and traffic noise for birdsong at these breathtaking natural escapes – all within easy reach of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. No flights needed, just your sense of adventure and maybe a picnic basket. Here's where to find that 'I can't believe this is the UAE' feeling without leaving the country: Al Wathba Salt Lake Just a short drive from Abu Dhabi, this otherworldly landscape has taken social media by storm. The lake's crystalline waters contrast dramatically with its mushroom-like salt formations, creating optical illusions that change with the sunlight. Arrive at sunrise or sunset for the most magical lighting, when the salt crystals sparkle like diamonds. Don't forget your camera – the geometric salt patterns make for extraordinary photographs that will leave your followers in awe. Hatta Dam Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, this man-made reservoir offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the UAE. The vibrant turquoise waters against the rugged mountain backdrop create a scene reminiscent of European alpine lakes. Rent a kayak (available for reasonable prices) or simply enjoy the view from one of the many picnic spots. Adventurous visitors can hike up to the famous Hatta Hill sign for panoramic views that stretch all the way to Oman on clear days. Jubail Mangrove Park This protected ecosystem showcases the UAE's delicate coastal beauty. The 2km boardwalk takes you through dense mangrove forests where you might spot flamingos wading in the shallows or turtles surfacing for air. Visit during high tide to see the mangroves in their full glory, when the water completely submerges their intricate root systems. The park offers free entry on weekdays, making it an ideal weekday escape during the Eid Al Adha break. Snoopy Island View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ash Young (@adoredecordxb) Named for its distinctive shape resembling the beloved cartoon character, this marine sanctuary offers some of the best snorkeling in the country. The shallow waters near the shore are perfect for beginners, while more experienced swimmers can explore the deeper areas teeming with colorful coral formations. Keep an eye out for the resident sea turtles that frequently surface near the island's eastern side. Al Hayer Forest This unexpected green oasis in the middle of the desert is one of the UAE's best-kept secrets. The dense concentration of ghaf and samar trees provides welcome shade during hot days, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic. As evening falls, the forest comes alive with the sounds of desert wildlife – you might even spot an Arabian hare, desert fox or a camel if you're quiet and patient. Love Lakes & Moon Lake The interlocking heart-shaped lakes of Al Qudra are even more enchanting in person than in photographs. Walk along the sandy paths that wind between the lakes, or rent a bike to explore the surrounding desert landscape. Nearby Moon Lake, shaped like its namesake, offers a more secluded experience. Time your visit for early morning to potentially spot the graceful Arabian oryx that have been reintroduced to the area. Wadi Shees This mountain valley offers a rare opportunity to experience flowing freshwater in the UAE. The well-maintained walking trail follows an ancient falaj (irrigation system) through date palm groves and past traditional stone houses. For the more adventurous, side trails lead to hidden pools and waterfalls that are particularly refreshing after rare rainy periods. Pro Tips for Your Eid Nature Adventure Early mornings (6-9am) offer the most comfortable temperatures and best wildlife viewing opportunities. Many locations have limited facilities, so bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends during holiday periods. Consider combining visits to nearby locations (like Love Lakes and Al Qudra Lakes) for a full day of exploration. This summer, embrace the spirit of adventure and discovery by exploring these natural treasures. Whether you're seeking peaceful reflection, family bonding time, or thrilling outdoor activities, the UAE's diverse landscapes offer something for everyone. Pack your sense of wonder along with your picnic basket, and prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty that exists just beyond our urban centers. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram