Margaret Atwood tells authors to be brave while ‘under threat' after award win
The 85-year-old was presented with the award at a ceremony at Grosvenor House in London on Monday for advocating for 'reading as an act of resistance'.
In a video acceptance speech, the Canadian said: 'I cannot remember a time during my own life, when words themselves felt under such threat.
'Political and religious polarisation, which appeared to be on the wane for parts of the 20th century, has increased alarmingly in the past decade. The world feels to me more like the 1930s and 40s at present than it has in the intervening 80 years.
'I have worked as a writer and in my youth in small press publishing for 60 odd years. Those years included the Soviet Union, when Samizdat was a dangerous method of publishing. Hand-produced manuscripts were secretly circulated, and bad luck for you if you were caught.
'(They now include) the recent spate of censorship and book banning, not only in the oppressive countries around the world, but also in the United States. (They also include) the attempt to expel from universities anyone who disagrees with the dogmas of their would-be controllers.
'This kind of sentiment is not confined to one extremism or the other – the so called left or the so called right.
'All extremisms share the desire to erase their opponents, to stifle any creative expression that is not propaganda for themselves, and to shut down dialogue. They don't want a dialogue, they want a monologue. They don't want many voices, they want only one.
'In a free world publishers and booksellers stand for the many.
'If free governments and the free human intelligence are to survive, the guardians and transmitters of words in all their multiplicity must be brave. I wish you strength and hope, and the courage to withstand the mobs on one hand and the whims of vengeful potentates on the other.'
Other winners at the ceremony included the late Russian politician Alexei Navalny, who won Overall Book Of The Year for his posthumous memoir Patriot – beating Boris Johnson, Gillian Anderson and Sir Chris Hoy to the gong.
Accepting the award in his honour, Mr Navalny's widow Yulia Navalnya said: 'This book was never meant to be published after Alexei's death, Alexei wrote it with all the strength, wit and honesty that defined him.
'He wrote in secret from a prison cell under the most brutal conditions with no access to books, to the internet, to anything but his own memory and will. And yet he created a manuscript that speaks with clarity and conviction not only about Russia, but about freedom, justice and what it means to remain human.
'After he was killed, publishing this book became more than a responsibility – it became a mission. I worked closely with his editors and friends to preserve every word, every sentence, just as he intended.
'I'm profoundly grateful for the compassion and solidarity with which readers around the world have embraced it.
'Receiving this award, from across the book community is a powerful recognition of the strength of Alexei's voice. It tells us that truth still matters, that integrity matters, that words can break through even the hardest walls and reach hearts everywhere.'
Percival Everett took home Author of the Year and Fiction Book Of The Year for his 24th novel James, Asako Yuzuki's Butter won Debut Fiction Book Of The Year, and Jamie Smart's Bunny Vs Monkey and Marian Keyes' My Favourite Mistake were joint winners of Book Of The Year – Audiobook: Fiction.
Isabella Tree and Angela Harding won Children's Non-Fiction Book Of The Year for Wilding, Gruffalo author Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler won Children's Illustrated Book Of The Year for Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures Of A Penguin, and Len Pennie's Poyums won Discover Book Of The Year.
Stanley Tucci's bestselling food diary What I Ate In One Year won Book Of The Year – Non-Fiction: Lifestyle And Illustrated, Abir Mukherjee won Crime And Thriller Book Of The Year for Hunted, and Patric Gagne won Audiobook Non-Fiction for Sociopath.
Saara El-Arifi's Faebound won Pageturner Book Of The Year, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hot Mess by Jeff Kinney won Book Of The Year – Children's Fiction, and Kate Mosse was awarded The British Book Award For Social Impact In Celebration Of Allen Lane.
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NBC News
2 hours ago
- NBC News
NATO chief to call for four-fold increase in Europe's air defense spending
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Time Out Dubai
2 hours ago
- Time Out Dubai
Too hot? 70 cool indoor activities in Dubai to tick off this summer
Dubai has some incredible indoor offerings for you to choose from, and believe us, there's a lot. Try some of the attractions you've never got around to, enjoy underwater yoga or get involved in a weird or whacky sport- every wanted to start rollerblading? We've got it all down for you. Jump to: Indoor activities to try in Dubai for the family Activate Canadian active gaming experience Activate is now open at City Centre Mirdif with plenty of ways to get one over your pals. The space features nine dynamic game rooms which fuse gaming, entertainment and physical activity in a state-of-the-art facility. With bright neon lights and easy-to-follow games, it's like being thrust into a retro games console (but irl). From Dhs95. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm; Sat-Sun 10am-midnight. City Centre Mirdif Mall. (600 599905). Active Games UAE If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man. Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score. From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, Air Maniax (Credit: Supplied) Instead of bouncing off the walls at home, bounce off the walls at Dubai's multi-activity indoor play arena, Air Maniax. Spread over 23,000 square feet, Air Maniax's biggest zone is an inflatable arena for all ages. Get the kids to try the challenging obstacle courses, the zip line and laser tag game, while all the while the scores are being recorded so you can see who comes out as champion at the end. From Dhs90. Mon-Thu noon-8pm; Fri noon-10pm; Sat 9am-10pm; Sun 9am-9pm. Al Quoz, (04 348 8981). Adventure Island (Credit:Supplied) The attraction now has branches in JBR and Deira, offering you and the little ones hours of fun. Start off by getting into one of the Pixel rooms that are covered with sensors, and get your steps in jumping around. If you're still not tired out, try a game or two of laser tag. Chase each other around the course as you duck and dive to avoid being hit by your opponents. Prices vary. Jumeirah Beach Residence and City Centre Deira, (058 833 9204). Battle Kart A perfect activity for the summer, get ready to battle your mates as you step inside a video game (sort of). Located in Dubai Investment Park, the track offers different games where you can team up with or go against your friends as you whizz around. One game is even inspired by the Battle Snake game on an old Nokia phone – now that is a throwback. From Dhs160. Open Mon-Thu 2pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 1pm-2am; Sun 1pm-midnight. Dubai Investment Park, (058 588 0116). Boo Boo Land (Credit: Boo Boo Laand) The play area in Dubai Mall boasts everything you need to keep the kids entertained. Spanning over 25,000 square metres, there are over 30 attractions from a snow park to a princess dress-up area, trampolines and interactive shows. Offering something for ages spanning from babies to teens, get lost in the playground paradise. From Dhs150 (toddler), Dhs190 (kids aged 3-15). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (050 189 8140). Read more: 50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025 Bounce (Credit:Supplied) Everybody jump. Test out your trampoline skills at Bounce and see if you have a front flip in your locker. Or if it's not for you, let the little ones run wild and free jump to their heart's content. Covered in trampolines from floor to wall, the sky is the limit with this one. From Dhs90. Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm; Sun 10am-8pm. Al Quoz (04 304 9333). Chaos Karts (Credit:Supplied) 3, 2, 1, GO. Make sure to visit with the kids if you haven't had the chance yet. Get them to step away from their video games and step inside one instead, as the virtual reality experience makes you feel as if you're in a real life version of Mario Kart. One for the bigger kids, children must be over the age of 11 to play. From Dhs140. Mon-Thu 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sun 11am-midnight Al Quoz, (04 324 2344). Dubai Bowling Center The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit:Supplied) The Dubai Bowling Center is one of the most recognisable buildings in Al Quoz with its 1980s retro décor taking you back to the good old days. Give your best shot on any of the 16 lanes on offer, compete against your loved ones or get into teams to knock down the pins. If you want something else to keep you entertained, simply turn and watch the classic films being beamed out on projectors instead. Prices vary. Open Mon-Wed 10am-midnight; Thu-Sun 10am-1am. Al Quoz, (04 339 1010). Dubai Butterfly Garden (Credit: Instagram/dubaibutterflygarden) Step into the enclosed garden, where you can admire over 15,000 butterflies' all-year-round. Stroll through the different zones, and watch as the beautiful bugs flutter overhead or even land on you if you're lucky. Showing the lifecycle from start to finish, the guides may even be able to let you watch some butterflies hatching from their pupa right in front of your eyes. From Dhs60. Open daily 9am-6pm. Al Barsha South 3, (04 422 8902). Mille Miglia Gallery and Cafe Calling all F1 fans – have you been here yet? Mille Miglia Gallery and Café in Al Quoz is stocked up with F1 memorabilia, swish Ferrari cars and signed items by the current drivers, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc. Don't miss the original pitwall that was used between 2017 and 2021. Free entry. Open daily 10am-9pm. Al Quoz, (04 295 0878). GLITCH (Credit: GLITCH) The game park has been on the scene for a while now, and is packed to the max with games from bowling to roller gliding. There's plenty in the gaming realm too for you to have a crack at. Level up on the VR challenges and have a blast from the past on the arcade games. Back to reality, there's even a ninja warrior course if you're brave enough to try it. Game prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, (04 886 1695). Hamleys Play Get the kiddos in the car and drive them down to Dubai Hills Mall where they can have a run around in the new play area. Open to both adults and kids, you can try out the sensory zones, whizz down some of the slides and take on an obstacle course. If you want to treat the little ones afterwards, you can browse through the toy shop on your way out. From Dhs99. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri 10am-midnight; Sat 9am-midnight; Sun 9am-11pm. Dubai Hills Mall. (04 223 1474). House of Hype Created by the team behind equally impressive Dubai attraction AYA Universe, this lot know how to give you a cool Insta-op. Tucked inside Chinatown at Dubai Mall, and on first glance, you might not know what to expect. But trust us on this one. This gigantic experience has over 100 different things to do, and you'll feel like you've walked through video games, taken a stroll through Japan and stumbled into a dream at the same time. From Dhs149. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 542 0330). IMG World (Credit:Supplied) One of the biggest indoor theme parks on the planet, IMG World of Adventures, features four zones – The Marvel Zone (for diddy superhero fans), The Lost Valley (where you can spot a dinosaur or two) and The Cartoon Network Zone (where favourite, colourful characters like the Powerpuff Girls hang out) and the welcoming IMG Boulevard. All inside, you can get your steps and your thrills in as you tour round the venue. Dhs365 (general admission), free (kids under 1.05m in height). Open Sun-Thu noon-10pm, Fri-Sat noon-11pm. City of Arabia, (04 403 8888). KidZania (Credit: Supplied) If your little ones are desperate to let off a little steam over the warmer months, swap an outdoor playground for an indoor play town, and let them go crazy at KidZania. Here, they can try their hand at all sorts of career options, be it a firefighter or radio presenter, a pilot or even a surgeon! There are all sorts of other cool grown-up roles for them to test their skills at too, so a few hours here should burn off plenty of energy. From Dhs195. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, (04 448 5222). Loco Bear When it comes to indoor entertainment, pretty much everything you can think of is under this roof. Climbing walls? Yup. Trampolining? Of course. Roll glider? You know it. VR headsets? What do you think. And that's only the half if it. Giving you hours of summer fun, the attraction is the new spot to checkout with all the family. Free entry. Credit bands from Dhs250. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz 2. (800 56262). Museum of Candy In need of a sugar rush? The attraction is an incredible adventure browsing 15 rooms all dedicated to (you guessed it), candy. Not only will you learn some weird and wonderful facts, you'll also get to slide into a gummy bear pool, watch some crazy candy being crafted and get some ideal insta opportunities. Don't leave without trying the unlimited ice cream (the flavours might surprise you). From Dhs119 (adult), Dhs99 (child). Open daily 10am-10pm. Umm Hurair Rd, Oud Metha, (04 591 0088). Oli Oli (Credit: Oli Oli) One for the tots, OliOli is an experiential children's play museum full of quirky and cool installations to thrill little ones. The hand-knit macramé play park for children to climb and wriggle across is a firm favourite and with 40 hands-on exhibits and several interactive galleries it is a go-to spot to keep youngsters entertained. Dhs69 (toddler), Dhs139 (kids aged 2-16), Dhs45 (extra adult). Open Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 9am-7pm; Sat 9am-8pm; Sun 9am-7pm. Al Quoz, (04 702 7300). Parkour DXB (Credit: Supplied) Heard of Parkour? Once just a hobby you would see hilarious videos of online, you can now let your kids try it out in a safe child-friendly environment. Try it out at one of three locations in the city that mean you can test your limits on padded mats and a safe environment instead of scaling building and hopping off roofs. If your little ones get really into it, there are even academies and weekly training classes you can sign them up for. Opening times and prices vary. Al Quoz, Port Rashid and JVC, (800 727 5687). Ribambelle (Credit: Supplied) Head over to Bluewaters with the little ones this weekend and get a table at Ribambelle, the restaurant that comes complete with an in-house slide and ball pit. Designed to give the kiddos a magical experience while you finally get to enjoy that coffee (or glass of grape), the play zones include candle-making and even t-shirt painting. Plus, the cost of their soft play entry also comes with a kids' meal included. Dhs95 (child, weekdays), Dhs150 (child, weekends).Open daily 9am-10pm. The Wharf, Bluewaters Island, (04 581 5555). SENSAS The new multi-sensory experience has just landed in Dubai, putting together a selection of experiences and puzzles that you will work your way around. From wacky taste tests to challenges in pitch darkness, you'll get to make the most of some awesome photo opportunities too. From Dhs150 (child), Dhs180 (adult). Open Mon-Thu 10.45am-10pm; Fri-Sun 9.45am-11pm. Al Quoz, (050 856 4990). VR Park (Credit: VR Park) VR Park is home to a host of virtual reality games for kids of all ages, meaning they can challenge reality and learn at the same time. Get in the game and be taken to distant planets or visit both the far-flung future and the not-so-distant world of a fully virtualised Dubai, thanks to a series of games specially designed with some of the world's top VR production houses. Free entry. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255) Wavehouse (Credit:Supplied) Jump into some iconic retro arcade games and spend the day running from machine to machine. Give your hardest hit at the Thunder Hammer, see how quick you can get the whack-a-mole, or if all else fails, get a bowling lane for the whole family and try your best for a strike. To finish off on a sugar buzz, grab a cookies and cream sundae before you head home. From Dhs370 per hour (bowling). Open daily noon-11.30pm, Atlantis the Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2626). Indoor activities in Dubai – Attractions ARTE Museum (Credit: Supplied) You could spend hours in the new Dubai Mall museum, exploring the natural landscapes of 'eternal nature' or getting involved with the live sketchbook feature – draw your own animal and watch it come alive on the digital walls. After all that art, be sure to grab a tea-inspired mocktail at the ARTE Tea Bar. From Dhs149 (adult) Dhs79 (child). Open daily 10am-10pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 570 7084). AYA Universe Let's jump in a giant ball pit and stare up at the stars. The interactive experiences at the Wafi City attraction are all about getting involved with galaxies far far away, and immersing yourself in the art. There are 12 rooms to see – including 'Flora', containing an Avatar-style light up tree, and 'The Falls', where you can dance underneath the water. From Dhs135. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Wafi City, Oud Metha. (04 542 0300). Burj Khalifa (Credit: Supplied) If you haven't already headed up the tallest building in the world, why not do it when it's a little warmer outside? All in the comfort of AC, travel up over 555 metres and enjoy the 360-degrees of the At the Top viewing deck before getting a refreshment at the Sky Lounge that sits on floor 148. Dhs159 (Sunrise tour), Dhs399 (At The Top SKY tour), Dhs769 (VIP lounge). Open daily 9am-11pm. Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, (04 888 8124). Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (Credit: Supplied) An underwater, ocean-life-filled wonderland awaits at the Dubai Aquarium. Spend a few hours of your public holiday feeling as if you are swimming deep in the ocean, and let the little ones get up-close with some incredible creatures. Spot a sting-ray in the 10-million-litre tank, or watch on as the sharks swim ominously above your head. From Dhs199. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255). Dubai Frame The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: Supplied) This cool vantage point allows visitors to see Dubai's past, present and future in a one-hour tour with unique views of 'old' and 'new' Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge which is fully air-conditioned. Travel up through one of the towers, before walking over the glass-floored bridge (eek) and coming back down the other side. Dhs50 (adult), Dhs20 (child). Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, (800 900). Foundry Art Space (Credit: Supplied) The new art space offers you an entire evening of activities that you don't need to spend a penny on. From open exhibitions to talks and film screenings, there are even cool elevated pods to curl up with a good book in. The displays change on a monthly rotation, so you can head along every few weeks if you want to see something different. Free. Open daily 10am-10pm, Boulevard Crescent, Downtown Dubai, (04 367 3696). Museum of Illusions (Credit: Supplied) Get some hilarious family photos and take everyone down to the Museum of Illusions for a fun day indoors. You won't believe your eyes as each of you adjust to the visual trickery, including floating heads and shrinking you down to size. Take a deep breath as you trundle through the vortex tunnel — it's sure to leave your head spinning! Dhs90 (adult), Dhs65 (kids aged 3-15). Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Seef, Dubai Creek, (04 357 3999). Storm Coaster (Credit: Supplied) 'The Storm' is a record-breaking rollercoaster located inside Dubai Hills Mall. This unique experience is likely to bring thrill-seekers from around the UAE to the mall to try this one-of-a-kind ride. Will you be queuing up for a ride on The Storm? Reaching speeds of up to 77kmh, riders can expect twists, turns, and sharp stomach wrenching drops. From Dhs65. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11.30pm. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (04 448 5033). Ski Dubai (Credit: Supplied) Cool yourself right down and hit the slopes at Ski Dubai for a couple of hours. Whizz down the manmade mountain from two hours to the entire day, or if you're not in the mood for skiing, get a pass for the snow park and try clambering in a zorb ball, bobsledding or a tubing run. Finish up with a hot chocolate or a meet and greet with the venue's very own penguins before heading home to warm up. Prices vary. Open daily 10am-1am. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (04 409 4000). The Green Planet (Credit: The Green Planet) A little tropical oasis in the middle of the desert, this indoor zoo and garden is packed with over 3,000 species of plants and animals, offering a slice of the tropics for nature-lovers. The experience will weave through a vertical rainforest, where the children can get up close with some sleepy sloths, or if they're feeling brave, opt in for the reptile encounter. To finish off, grab a pizza or some churros in the jungle-themed Green Planet Café before heading back home. Dhs155 (adult), Dhs135 (kids aged 2-10). Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Wasl, (800 2629464). La Perle (Credit: La Perle Dragone) The only permanent show in Dubai, it is well worth a visit. The performance will leave you unsure where to look as the stage floods with water in one direction, and the cast show off some incredible stunts in the other. There are lots of ways to enjoy the show, from an earlier performance with the family to a luxurious dinner and show experience if you're searching for a full evening experience. From Dhs269. Show timings vary. Al Habtoor City, (04 437 0001). Madame Tussauds Serena Williams is the latest celebrity name at the wax museum (Credit: Madame Tussauds Dubai) It might not be the real thing, but it's as close as most of us are going to get to meeting a celeb. Snap a selfie with some A-listers from Dwayne Johnson to Justin Timberlake, and even say hello to Kate Winslet and George Clooney, the newest additions to the building. There are often deals and discounts on tickets, so check online to see if you can make the most of them. From Dhs95. Open daily 11.30am-8.30pm. Bluewaters Island, Dubai Marina, (04 873 3042). Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (Credit: Mohammed bin Rashid Library) Want to take some time out of the madness and get cosy with a good book? We know just the place. If you want to slow down the pace, why not spend a few hours at the library, browse the books and have a look round all seven floors. Once you're done exploring, sit down, flick through a few pages and watch the evening disappear as you get lost in a story. Free. Open Mon-Thu 9am-9pm; Fri 2pm-9pm; Sat 9am-9pm. Al Jaddaf, (800 627523). Museum of the Future (Credit: Supplied) You've definitely seen it but have you ever had a look around inside the incredible landmark? A staple of Sheikh Zayed Road, explore the three floors of interactive exhibitions all about outer space, health and the ecosystem. If you're taking the kids, be sure to visit the last floor – it's filled with some great challenges to get their minds racing. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-7pm, Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Shindagha Museum (Credit: Supplied) Get a bit of culture in this hotter months and visit the UAE's largest heritage site, where you can learn more about the tales of the first residents of Dubai Creek. Get a flavour for Emirati life in years gone by, this museum is in a stunning location too looking out over the water. Dhs20. Open daily 10am-8pm (last entry 7pm). Al Shindagha Museum, Al Shindagha. (800 33 222). Souk Madinat The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: ITP images) Haven't been able to haggle in a while? If you're missing getting lost in the stalls, take yourself to the market in Souk Madinat Jumeirah and get a flavour of Arabic culture. Whether it's a trinket for the house or a new fragrance you're after, once the retail therapy is over reward yourself and dine out at one of the restaurants nestled in the souk – for the authentic Middle Eastern experience, try one of the platters from Al Makan. Free entry. Open daily 10am-11pm. King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, (04 366 8888). (Credit:Supplied) This might be the highest you've ever had your dinner. If you're looking for a special evening to impress a certain someone, enjoy fine dining at the helm of Burj Khalifa 442 metres from the ground. You can dine in for lunch or dinner, and soak up those sky-high views. Open daily 7am-midnight. Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, (04 888 3828). Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant (Credit: Al Dawaar) Can't decide which Dubai dinner view you want? Have all of them at Al Dawaar, where in the course of 90 minutes, your table will have rotated around the entire building. Speaking of courses, have as many as you fancy as the restaurant is an all you can eat buffet, offering up everything from fresh seafood to sushi, dim sum and more. Enjoy the novelty of 360 degree views without having to get up and put the spot on your to visit list. Open Mon-Fri 6.30pm-11.30pm, Sat-Sun 12.30-4pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm, Hyatt Regency Galleria Residence Dubai, Deira, (04 209 6912). Boom Battle Bar (Credit: Boom Battle Bar) Get ready to spend hours in here. Perfect for the indecisive, Boom Battle bar has it all. For over 21s only, start off your trip with a spot of augmented reality axe-throwing, before a quick round of crazy golf. If you're still feeling competitive, try your hand at shuffleboard, and why not make the loser give everyone a quick rendition of something in one of the karaoke booths. Game prices vary. Open Sun-Thu 4pm-1am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am. DoubleTree by Hilton, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, (04 585 7357). Brass Monkey (Credit: Brass Monkey) Fancy being big kids for the evening? Get competitive at Brass Monkey and keep a tally as you try out all of the different games in either City Walk or Bluewaters Island. Whether it's retro arcade games, bowling or a spot of foosball, all that gaming will work up an appetite, so be sure to stop at the bar afterwards for some all-American dishes. Various locations, (04 582 2244). Dubai Opera Credit: Supplied If you're looking for a sophisticated evening, why not see if you can grab some last-minute tickets for whatever's going live at Dubai Opera. From incredible ballets to some hilarious comedians, dine at one of the nearby restaurants in the Opera District (you can't go wrong with Bisou), then head in for curtain up. Downtown Dubai. (04 440 8888). Game Over Escape Room (Credit: Supplied) Located inside Nakheel Mall, Game Over Escape Rooms is interactive and offers really fascinating games. With plenty of very cool rooms including Murder on the Orient Express, One Thousand and One Nights, Alice in Wonderland, Horror Circus, Atlantis the Lost City, Dracula, Illuminati and so much more. You have a wide variety with this one. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, (04 577 3289). Smash Room (Credit: Supplied) Crash bang wallop your way through an afternoon and release some irritation from those occasional squabbles through smashing something to pieces. Designed to be broken, the room is filled with electronics, glass and fragile objects that you can destroy at your will. Once your rage is over, all of the debris is recycled, and replaced, so it's therapeutic for you, your relationship and the environment. From Dhs69 per person. Open Mon-Thu noon-10.45pm; Fri-Sat noon-11.45pm, Sun noon-10.30pm. Al Quoz, (04 339 7810). Smash Room City If one smash room isn't enough, make your way round an entire city instead. Pick your favourite room(s) and go to town destroying an office, supermarket, restaurant, whatever you feel like. You even get to pick your weapon of choice (how fun). From Dhs397 per room. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-noon. Sport Society, Mirdif, (04 324 5914). Showhouse Head down to the car park of the Intercontinental Dubai Marina, where you'll stumble upon the incredible new stage and dinner show. Enter through the 'dressing rooms', where you see the cast getting ready for their debut. Then it's time to watch the story unfold, while you have the option to enjoy dinner and drink or two. From Dhs200. Open Wed-Thu 7pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 8pm-3am. InterContinental Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina (04 423 8312). SUSHISAMBA (Credit: SUSHISAMBA) You won't be staring into each other's eyes here, instead you'll be fixated on those incredible views over Palm Jumeirah. Head up to the iconic sushi restaurant on the 51st floor by day or night to admire the lookout, and make sure to order the crispy taquitos and the classic Samba Dubai roll to share while you're there. Open Mon-Fri noon-3pm; Sat-Sun 1pm-3.30pm (lunch); Sun-Thu 6pm-2am; Fri-Sat 6pm-3am (dinner). St Regis, Palm Jumeirah, (04 278 4888). Swingers (Credit: Swingers) Recently landing in Bluewaters, this crazy course will let you have one full round for Dhs80, making it another bargain activity to get under your belt. There are three fun courses to choose from, made up of obstacles from hot air balloons to funfairs. If you fancy a mixed drink then you're in luck, as the venue lets you take your drinks round the course with you, meanwhile a live DJ will be playing some cracking beats in the background. Don't forget your phone either, because this place is made for the 'gram. From Dhs80. Open Mon-Wed 4pm-1am; Thu-Fri 4pm-2am; Sat noon-2am; Sun noon-1am. Bluewaters Island, (04 557 6309). Time Out Market (Credit: Time Out Market) If you're other half just can't decide what they want to eat, take them here. The market is packed with some of the city's best food vendors guaranteed to satisfy any craving. In the mood for a filling treat? Grab the garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza. Want something a little more local? Be sure to try the Za'atar Man'ousheh from Three by Eva. Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, (054 375 2421). Indoor activities in Dubai -Sports and Wellness Barry's Bootcamp It might be an indoor class, but this one is guaranteed to get you as sweaty as a 10k run in the summer sun. The HIIT (high intensity interval training) is a huge hit in Dubai, so get yourself booked in for a mixture of cardio and strength training. Finish off with a cold protein shake in the venue afterwards to get your energy levels back up and compliment those endorphins. Class prices vary. DIFC and Dubai Marina, Dubai Ice Rink (Credit: Supplied) Get gliding on the ice and cool yourself right down in the Olympic-sized rink slap bang in the middle of Dubai Mall. Kids and adults alike will be able to move around, have fun and sharpen their skating skills. It's also a great excuse to shake the dust off your winter woollies. The flurries of fake snow falling from the sky (AKA the rooftop of the mall) will make your cold dreams come true. From Dhs110. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255). FaceFit Created in Lebanon, the FaceFit studio has now permanently set up base in Dubai to make sure your cheeks are as rosy as ever. Training 42 different muscles in your face, the hero workout is the 'signature sculpt' which starts with a quick cleanse before some face stretching and massage, also known as the warm-up. Ending with some cooling gels and sculpting, your visit to the gym can be over in as little as 30 minutes. From Dhs250. Open Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. Town Centre, Jumeirah, (052 696 5454). Forma Every visited a secret pizzeria inside a library? Say hello to Forma, the latest must-visit spot in Jumeirah. This new pizza place can be found in Al Safa Art and Design Library in Dubai and has all the arty vibes any creative could want. Order the miso corn before tucking into a six cheese pizza (the cheese pull is something else) then finish with the pretzel ice cream. Open daily, 8am. Al Safa Art & Design Library, Jumeirah @formauae Forma Project This is going to work out those knots. Dubai's first roll shaper studio, Forma Project is tucked away on the Golden Mile, and it's going to to get you feeling great. The deep tissue machine will get right in there as you move between different positions, and you can even burn up to 450 calories per session. From Dhs120 (two trial sessions). Open Mon-Sat 7.30am-9.30pm; Sun noon-9.30pm. Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah. (058 112 1809). Roll DXB The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: RollDXB) Swap the beach path for the retro rink and whizz around on some roller skates to your heart's content. Ideal for a cool Instagram pic, hire a pair of light up skates at RollDXB and strike a pose next to the neon signs. If you're really a beginner, there are newbie classes every Saturday morning so you can practice before showing off to your friends. From Dhs65. Open Mon-Wed 11am-11pm; Fri 11am-midnight; Sat-Sun 10am-11pm. Marina Cubes St, Dubai Maritime City, Port Rashid, (04 238 6206). Bedrock – Golf Simulator (Credit: Bedrock) It might not be nine holes at Emirates Golf Club, but it's as close as you can get indoors. There are a few simulators across the city where you can get a digital hole-in-one, including at Bedrock in Dubai Marina. The X-Golf simulator will let you try out 50 of the world's top courses, or work on your swing at the virtual driving range. Dhs200 per hour (noon-5pm), Dhs280 (from 5pm). Open daily noon-2am. Pier 7, Dubai Marina, (04 578 1668). GRIP The new sports hub in Jumeirah Heights has just launched, and there's tonnes for you to try, Whether you fancy a game of padel or pickleball, a tennis lesson or even a reformer pilates class, you can get them all here under one roof (yes, there are classes and courts inside). P.S – once you've finished working up a sweat, be sure to grab a smoothie or a flat white from the café before you head home. Open daily 7am-midnight. Jumeirah Heights, (050 499 2469). iFly Dubai Once you have accepted that jumping out of a plane in Dubai is too terrifying, but that you really want the feeling of weightlessness, then iFly is your only option. Strap on a special suit and enter a 10m indoor glass tunnel and jets of wind will shoot you in to the air to (try and) perform aerial stunts. From Dhs179. Open Mon-Thu noon-9pm, Fri-Sun noon-11pm. Mirdif City Centre, Mirdif, (600 5999905). Japanese head spa The viral treatment has seen some serious success in Dubai, and you can spend 90-minutes experiencing pure relaxation. Start with a head massage and hair wash, followed by a scalp treatment, facial scrub and steaming before leaving feeling brand new. Dhs555. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Refive Spa, FIVE Jumeirah Village. JVC. (04 248 9964). Mountain Extreme rock climbing It's too hot to climb an actual mountain, but try improving your bouldering or strap into the ropes at Mountain Extreme. Get those hands covered in chalk and clamber about at the indoor climbing facility, with over 127 top rope routes. From Dhs125. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm; Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Al Quoz, (04 236 6040). Padel Edition For a swish new spot to play padel, get on the court at Padel Edition in Al Quoz. Sporting eight indoor courses, a recovery zone and an in-house barista to get your post-game caffeine fix, your form will be at its best in no time. Prices vary. Open daily 7am-midnight. Al Quoz, (04 348 7481). Underwater yoga at Atlantis The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: supplied) Start the day with a soothing under the sea session at The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis the Palm. Surrounded by calming blue lights and more than 65,000 marine animals, focus on your breathing and move through some sequences as sharks and stingrays sidle by. Running early morning on the weekends, book in for sessions until it's cool enough to resurface outdoors again. Dhs175. Sat-Sun, 8am-9am. The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis the Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 1000). Indoor activities in Dubai – Cinemas Cinema Akil Credit: Cinema Akil The independent cinema showcases a range of films from around the world. With locations at Alserkal Avenue and the 25hours Hotel Dubai, you can checkout screenings of smaller-scale productions, classic flicks and powerful documentaries. Grab the popcorn and check the monthly timetable to see what's new. Timings vary. Alserkal Avenue and 25hours Hotel Dubai. Roxy – Platinum Plus at BoxPark (Credit: Roxy) One of the city's most determinedly retro screens, plump for a screening at Platinum Plus at Roxy Cinema's BoxPark location. Scarlet armchair and speakeasy lighting? – yes please. Opt for a unique cinema experience, and get comfortable in the seats that look like they're out of a film themselves. To make things even better, there's a robust menu of hot plates as well as the usual cinema snacks, and table service. Prices vary. BoxPark, Al Wasl (800 7699). Reel Cinemas – Screen X – Dubai Mall (Credit: Reel Cinemas) You can't get more involved in a film than in here. The multi-projection screen at Reel Cinemas has a 270-degree screen, meaning it sweeps almost all the way around the room. Feel as if you're standing on the battlefield in an action movie, or get the fright of your life if you opt to watch a horror. Stock up on snacks and spend a couple of hours inside your film of choice. Reel Cinemas, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255). The Theatre at Vox Cinemas Tucked up inside Mall of the Emirates, this movie magic has gone *all out* to make you feel like a VIP. Arrive early before your movie, so you can make the most of the THEATRE lounge, complete with welcome drinks, pool tables and even shuffleboards for a quick game before the trailers start rolling. Ranging from around Dhs225 a ticket, popcorn is included, but of course, you can order some other treats once you're in there. And by treats, we mean a full three-course meal if you fancied it. Whether you choose burger sliders, a steak sandwich or dynamite shrimp, enjoy personal butler service. Prices vary. VOX Cinemas, Mall of the Emirates, Level 2, (600 599905). VOX Private Cinema (Credit: VOX) Get all the gang together for the ultimate movie night. The private screen in the Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates is available for booking so you can watch the latest releases without that noisy stranger scoffing nachos in the back row. Instead, treat your loved ones to a luxurious movie experience, with unlimited popcorn and soft beverages included in the price. Kempinski Mall of Emirates, (055 167 3908). Looking for other indoor activities to try in Dubai The best Chips Oman dishes in Dubai (and where to find them) Chips Oman ice cream anyone? It's official: These are the 86 best restaurants in Dubai After months of testing, the results are in The best gents' nights in Dubai to try with the lads Bargain-friendly fun
South Wales Guardian
3 hours ago
- South Wales Guardian
Ukraine says Russia launched 479 drones in war's biggest overnight bombardment
Apart from drones, 20 missiles of various types were fired at different parts of Ukraine, according to the air force, which said the barrage targeted mainly central and western areas of Ukraine. Ukraine's air defences destroyed 277 drones and 19 missiles in mid-flight, an air force statement said, claiming that only 10 drones or missiles hit their target. Officials said one person was injured. It was not possible to independently verify the claim. A recent escalation in aerial attacks has coincided with a renewed Russian battlefield push on eastern and north-eastern parts of the roughly 1,000-kilometre (620-mile) front line. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said late on Sunday that in some of those areas 'the situation is very difficult'. He provided no details. Ukraine is short-handed on the front line against its bigger enemy and needs further military support from its Western partners, especially air defences. But uncertainty about the US policy on the war has fuelled doubts about how much help Kyiv can count on. Two recent rounds of direct peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul have yielded no significant breakthroughs beyond pledges to swap prisoners as well as thousands of their dead and seriously wounded troops. Russia's aerial attacks usually start late in the evening and end in the morning, because drones are harder to spot in the dark. Russia has relentlessly battered civilian areas of Ukraine with Shahed drones during the more than three-year war. The attacks have killed more that 12,000 Ukrainian civilians, according to the United Nations. Russia says it targets only military targets. Ukraine has developed long-range drones that continue to strike deep inside Russia. Russia's Ministry of Defence said on Monday that it shot down 49 Ukrainian drones overnight over seven Russian regions. Two drones hit a plant specialising in electronic warfare equipment in the Chuvashia region, located more than 600 kilometres east of Moscow, local officials reported. Alexander Gusev, head of Russia's Voronezh region, said 25 drones had been shot down there overnight, damaging a gas pipeline and sparking a small fire. The Ukrainian General Staff claimed special operations forces forces struck two Russian fighter jets stationed at the Savasleyka airfield in Russia's Novgorod region located some 650 kilometres from the Ukrainian border. The statement did not say how the planes were struck.
