
Saddle Becomes the First Emirati Specialty Coffee Brand to Open in Saint-Tropez
Saddle, the UAE's homegrown specialty coffee and dining concept, is continuing to take the region's unique coffee culture global with a new destination in the French Riviera's stylish coastal gem, Saint-Tropez. What began as a homegrown café in Dubai has transformed into one of the most iconic specialty coffee brands in the region, and is growing globally. And now, Saddle has officially landed in Europe's most glamorous seaside hotspot.
With more than 25 outlets already operating across the Gulf, London, and Cannes, Saddle has added Saint-Tropez to its growing map, a destination that perfectly reflects the brand's love for quality, atmosphere, and cultural connection. With its arrival in Saint-Tropez, Saddle becomes the first Emirati specialty coffee brand to make its mark on this iconic French summer destination.
Saddle's new Saint-Tropez café blends relaxed Riviera charm with its distinctive café experience. Guests can enjoy specialty coffee using a selection of beans sourced from around the world and their popular Pistachio Milkshake, made with Sicilian Pistachios. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh pastries and made-to-order creations such as Saddle's delicious crepes served with precision and flair. The menu showcases thoughtfully curated, high-quality ingredients that elevate the flavor and experience of Saddle's signature Matcha and Açaí offerings. Like every Saddle location, the space has been designed to reflect the local spirit, with elegant interiors, artwork, and touches inspired by the French coast.
As part of its broader brand ethos, Saddle is also known for exciting collaborations with world-class luxury and lifestyle names such as Sephora, Land Rover, Tiffany & Co., and Bentley. Since launching in 2017, Saddle has grown into one of the GCC's most recognizable coffee concepts, earning top ratings across its locations. With a loyal following, a deeply rooted identity, and a vision for global impact, Saddle is taking the UAE's taste for coffee excellence and hospitality to the world stage, one city at a time.

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H.H. Sheikh Mohammed: UAE ranked 5th in World Competitiveness Ranking
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Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE is ranked 5th globally by 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking
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The UAE ranked 5th globally, alongside the world's leading countries in economic competitiveness, government efficiency, legislative strength, and business environment excellence."Fourteen years ago, we established a competitiveness centre, uniting the efforts of key national entities. These efforts have elevated the UAE's ranking from 28th globally in 2009 to being among the top five globally in competitiveness. In the same report, the UAE ranked 1st globally in the absence of bureaucracy index, 2nd globally in government policies adaptability index, and 4th globally in government efficiency index.""This achievement is a testament to years of consistent effort. With the vision of my brother, Mohamed bin Zayed, our future will continue to be even brighter and stronger," His Highness Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, 'During the meeting, we approved housing grants for over 1,838 citizens in the first half of the current year, with a total value of Dh1.2 billion. 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The unified integrated digital ecosystem for government services is currently connecting over 130 government entities and private sector organisations. It has facilitated 2.6 billion digital transactions efficiently, accurately, and swiftly. Thanks and appreciation go to the team behind this outstanding national ecosystem."His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also said, 'The Cabinet approved during the meeting the restructuring of the Higher Committee Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism under the chairmanship of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "Over the years, the Committee has made strides in advancing national policies and strengthening measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing across the country. The Committee will continue its work to ensure the UAE remains a global leader combating money laundering and terrorism financing, an oasis of safety and security, and an ideal business environment for entrepreneurs and investors across all sectors."His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, 'We also approved the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Centre, which will operate under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The new centre will manage and operate the Integrated National Maritime System for monitoring maritime traffic, oversee the National Maritime Single Window, and enhance the safety and security of the maritime sector. It will also activate and develop mechanisms to prevent harmful practices, protect the UAE's marine life, and advance the sector through conducting scientific research and studies."His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum concluded, 'We approved the 2024 Annual Report of the Higher Commission for Free Trade Negotiations. Key achievements include the signing and conclusion of 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) with strategic global economies, eight of which have already come into force. We also reviewed ongoing efforts to finalise more agreements with additional countries. The UAE's free trade negotiation team is outstanding and has delivered remarkable results, contributing to record-breaking growth in the UAE's foreign trade in a short period."The UAE Cabinet reviewed the 2025 Global Competitiveness Ranking results, published by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre in Lausanne, Switzerland. This year, the UAE is ranked among the top five globally, scoring 96.09 out of 100 UAE advanced two positions from last year, surpassing countries such as the United States, Sweden, Germany, and Canada, while maintaining its top ranking as the regional leader for the ninth consecutive report evaluates 69 countries based on four key areas: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure. Its findings cover 341 competitiveness indicators across economic, administrative, and social 2025 edition also introduced five new indicators: food waste, environmental performance, freely elected government, passport mobility, and media year, the UAE made significant progress in the business efficiency pillar, rising seven spots to rank third globally. It also maintained a strong standing globally in economic performance and government efficiency, ranking second and fourth, UAE's exceptional performance in key sectors contributed to its leadership in 113 global indicators across the report's main and sub-pillars. The country ranked first globally in 22 indicators, including employment rate, absence of bureaucracy, availability of global expertise, digital transformation in companies, venture capital, inbound mobility of higher education students, public-private partnerships, energy infrastructure, and female parliamentary UAE also ranked second globally in social cohesion, flexibility of residency laws, and government policy adaptability, while securing third globally in graduates in sciences, leverage of digital tools and technology, and healthcare Cabinet reviewed the 2024 report of the Higher Commission for Free Trade Negotiations. The report highlighted the signing and conclusion of negotiations for 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with various countries, of which eight have already come into agreements drove the UAE's foreign trade volume to an unprecedented Dh5.23 trillion in 2024, according to the World Trade Organisation (WTO).The UAE's non-oil exports reached a historic milestone, exceeding Dh440 billion in 2023, marking a 16.3% growth compared to 2022 and a remarkable 83% increase from 2019. 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Strategic projects were also initiated in Masfout, including Marble Park, a Ladies' Club, Friday Market, and restoration of Al Sharia and Al Falaj areas as cultural first phase of the Al Sila' Waterfront development project exceeded an 87% completion rate, while plans for Al Rams included several initiatives, such as building a community council, developing the marina and corniche, and advancing ecotourism plans. The Council also launched the UAE Villages Councils programme, creating 10 integrated community councils and distinct digital branding for each village under the initiative (Roots) to empower female artisans in the UAE. Several cultural festivals and local market initiatives were organised, attracting over 206,000 visitors, supporting 171 families, and engaging 790 volunteers. The Cabinet reviewed the achievements of the fourth edition of the Make it in the Emirates platform (2025). 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The Centre will manage a unified maritime database, oversee vessel tracking systems, and ensure maritime safety and environmental protection in collaboration with relevant Cabinet approved drafting a federal law to saveguard the UAE's cultural heritage. The law will enhance awareness, support intangible heritage, and align national efforts with international best Cabinet restructured the High Committee for Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing under the chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign UAE Council for Climate Action was also restructured to oversee the implementation of the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy and promote carbon market UAE added nine sites to the global list of biodiversity hotspots and launched a roadmap to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. 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8 of the best spas in Dubai that feel like a mini holiday
Some days just call for disappearing – just you, a robe, and a room that smells like eucalyptus. A slow slide into calm, quiet, and the kind of silence that feels like a reset button and the version of you who isn't replying to emails or watching the clock. No special occasion – just a solid excuse to hide from the world in a steam room and do absolutely nothing. Some of the best spas in Dubai will make you feel worlds away without actually going anywhere. Dreamy, quiet, and just the right kind of escape. Here's where to let it all melt, zone out, and feel like you've gone somewhere far away. Click through the gallery 3 of 12 Hidden inside the stunning One&Only The Palm, Guerlain Spa is a refined retreat dedicated to the iconic French beauty brand. From the moment you walk in, the signature scent hits you, cold face cloths lightly misted with Guerlain fragrances set the tone. The calm, neutral-toned corridors lead you to private treatment rooms adorned with subtle floral patterns, keeping it elegant yet relaxed. The menu features signature treatments like the Desert D'Orient journey, a blend of scrub, wrap, steam, and massage, and the One&Only Solar Evasion, a face and body exfoliation designed to get your skin glowing. There's also the Imperial Face Sculpt, a deep tissue facial workout that lifts, tones, and contours your face with an hour of blissful massage and boosted circulation. Location: Guerlain Spa, One&Only The Palm Contact: (0)4 440 0100. Atlantis The Royal is a showstopper from the moment you step in, think flaming walls and massive fish tanks that feel like an aquarium meets art gallery. Is it spa? Equally impressive, located on the lower ground floor, this sanctuary is worth the 20-minute cruise around the Palm's East Crescent, even if it's just for a massage. The spa feels like a dark, calming hideaway. Inside, rough black timber and French panelling all wrapped in low light and chill vibes. There's a charcoal sauna for detox, an aroma steam room for deep hydration, a hydrotherapy pool with massage jets, a halotherapy salt room to boost your serotonin, and an alchemy shower designed to lift your spirits. Location: Awaken Spa, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah Contact: (0)4 426 0000. At Bulgari Resort Dubai, wellness is luxury with every detail dialled in. Designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, the spa matches the Italian jewellery house's aesthetic. Step inside the Turkish hammam where Iranian green onyx meets Afyon marble. The Vitality Pool, inspired by the ancient Caracalla baths, shimmers with green and real gold mosaics right next to the main indoor swimming pool. Some of the spa's signature treatments include the 90-minute Exclusive Bulgari Facial. It combines a customised fascia massage to boost cell regeneration, a jade Gua Sha to lift and sculpt, and a scalp massage. Location: Bulgari Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Bay Island Contact: (0)4 317 4317. Set on the edge of Bluewaters Island, Banyan Tree Dubai is home to one of the city's most design-forward new spa spaces. It swaps the brand's usual darker tones for light, airy textures, all curved architecture, sandy marble and a corridor bathed in natural light that leads you into a state of calm before your treatment even begins. There are seven ensuite rooms, minimal and soothing, with sculptural mirrors and quiet corners to get changed and breathe. The treatment menu covers everything from Balinese massages and deep scrubs to herbal facials and long, ritual-style sessions that feel like a reset. The standout? The Rainforest Experience: a full hour in your own private space with a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and tropical shower, just for you. Total silence. Total solitude. Location: Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island Contact: (0)4 556 666. Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is the definition of Arabian luxury. It's an escape that honours the ancient art of bathing as more than just cleansing, it’s about renewing your body and soul. The space dazzles with mosaic tiles, flowing curtains, and a massive chandelier that crowns the Thalassotherapy pool. Around the pool, cosy velvet seating areas, the perfect spot to draw the curtains and claim your own private sanctuary. More than just a spa, it’s a day-long retreat. Expect to float in the mineral-rich Thalassotherapy pool, steam away stress in the hammam, test your limits in the icy Snow Room, or let the jacuzzi work its magic on tight muscles. There’s also a sauna to help detox and reset. If you’re craving total escape with a rich cultural edge, this is the place to lose yourself and find your calm. Location: Talise Ottoman Spa, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah Contact: (0)4 453 0000. If you’re craving a spa day that feels like stepping into a Dior boutique, this is it. Sitting on the 29th floor of The Lana, part of the Dorchester Collection, Dior Spa is all about quiet elegance and design, think polished parquet floors, soft lighting, and shelves stacked with their signature fragrances and skincare. Expect treatment rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the city like a live artwork. Inside, the treatment rooms carry subtle nods to the French Maison with Toile de Jouy cushions and throws, Dior coffee table books, and soft floral touches in dusky pinks that keep things inviting, never overdone. The menu is as high fashion as you’d expect, personalised treatments paired with cutting-edge tech like the Japanese Iyashi Dome infrared sauna (for slimming and anti-aging), LED therapy, and Icoone therapy. It’s a spot for those who want their beauty and wellness wrapped in scientific expertise and pure sophistication. Location: Dior Spa, The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Downtown Dubai Contact: (0)4 567 9999. Set by the Creek, Park Hyatt Dubai feels like a total escape, leafy, quiet, and low-key beautiful. Right in the heart of it all is Amara Spa, a hidden gem locals have loved for years, and for good reason. Surrounded by palm trees, bougainvillea and a postcard-worthy golf course, this spot makes switching off feel effortless. The spa menu is all about Natura Bisse facials, Gharieni tech-driven body treatments, and rituals that blend the old-school and the futuristic. You'll find things like psammotherapy (that's a warm quartz-sand bed), Welnamis acoustic therapy, and Touchless iDome with infrared light, all built to reset your body and clear your mind. To stretch the day into a proper mini-holiday, pair your treatment with a pool pass and follow it up with lunch or sunset drinks at Noepe, the Creekside terrace spot with chilled yacht-club views and a great rose list. Location: Amara Spa, Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Creek Resort Contact: (0)4 602 1660. Fairmont The Palm has quietly given its spa a glow-up, and Serenity now lives up to its name more than ever. It's one of the few spas in the city that includes proper hydrothermal perks, steam, sauna, and jacuzzi with every treatment. Inside, it's calm and thoughtfully designed. Soft arches, warm tones, and the low hum of meditation music guide you through to the treatment rooms. In both the male and female spaces you'll find a large steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, and a quiet spot for sipping herbal tea with fresh muffins and dates. Prefer to spa together? There's also a unisex area with the same setup. The spa list features classic and contemporary treatments, from sea salt scrubs and bathing rituals to Swiss Line Hydrafacials, traditional hammam, and CBD-infused massages. Location: Serenity Spa, Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Contact: (0)4 457 3545. 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