Latest news with #Dhs249
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Only 56% Emiratisation could be realised last year, says federal report
A parliamentary report has revealed that 3,971 male and female individuals had been appointed to federal government positions in 2024, out of a total of 6,200 created in last year's budget for government entities. Of these, 2,214 were citizens, representing 56 per cent of the total positions. Meanwhile, the total number of non-citizens appointed reached 1,757, representing 44 per cent. This reflects the challenges of replacing national cadres, particularly given the ongoing shortage of key specialisms such as education, health and engineering. Consequently, 2,229 job vacancies remain unfilled. A copy of the report, obtained by Al Khaleej, indicated that 5,043 new job vacancies were created in 2023, but only 3,638 of these were filled. Of these, 1,910 were filled by citizens and 1,728 by non-citizens. In 2022, 2,446 vacancies were created, 2,953 of which were filled, including 1,458 by citizens and 1,495 by non-citizens. In 2021, 2,100 vacancies were created, 1,902 of which were filled, including 961 by citizens and 941 by non-citizens. The report indicated that Emiratisation targets had not been achieved during the 2023-2024 fiscal period, based on the number of positions actually filled compared to the total number of vacancies. Last year, 44 per cent of appointments to vacant positions in federal government agencies were made to non-citizens. Despite the allocation of a large number of jobs, he stated that the Emiratisation rate reached only 56 per cent of the total vacant positions during the 2024 fiscal year. This percentage falls short of the country's aspirations to increase the number of Emirati employees, which is a worrying indicator given the shortage of strategic specialities such as education, health and engineering. It also highlights the discrepancy between educational outcomes and the required specialisms, as well as the unattractiveness of jobs in the federal sector, given that the federal government salary schedule has not been updated since 2012. The report also stated that, given the ongoing failure to meet appointment targets within federal government entities, unused financial allocations have been made for the years 2023–2024 to cover the costs of promotions and appointments within ministries and federal entities. The cost of positions that became vacant after the implementation of the early retirement programme at all federal entities, which ended in 2022, was deducted. An allocation of Dhs249 million was made for 2024 and Dhs276 million for 2023. This reflects the challenges of replacing national cadres and filling vacant positions in the absence of clarity over the mechanisms for transferring retirees' expertise or replacing them with qualified national competencies, which will have a negative impact on the achievement of Emiratisation targets in federal entities. Conversely, several Federal National Council members questioned why 35 per cent of the budget allocated for vacant positions in 2024 was not utilised, and why 44 per cent of the appointed positions were filled by non-citizens. They emphasised that any position that a citizen can fill is a right of the citizen and should not be assigned to anyone else. Najla Ali Al Shamsi, a Council member, emphasised that many jobs in government agencies have gone to non-citizens, despite us seeking employment for our children in the private sector through 'Nafis'. Dr. Mariam Obaid Al Badawi, a council member, said that 35 per cent of the budget allocated for vacant positions in 2024, representing more than a third of the budget for government sector jobs, went unused. Furthermore, 44 per cent went to non-citizens. If the excuse is a lack of qualified nationals to fill these positions, the question arises: What has happened to the plans adopted by higher education policies to match university graduates with the labour market? Dr. Nidal Mohammed Al Tunaiji, a council member, explained that we raised the same observations regarding vacant positions last year. "We are looking beyond the numbers of vacant positions and those appointed to them, as well as the impact of these numbers on social and economic development," Dr. Al Tunaiji said. She pointed out that there are vacant positions for which allocations are available, and that there are lists of graduates waiting for an opportunity to secure a job that would provide them with a good social life and family stability. However, these amounts are returned to the government budget because they are considered surplus, and not using them to fill these positions is a challenge.
Time Out Dubai
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Ronan Keating at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre: Tickets, date and more
One of Ireland's most iconic pop stars is set to perform a special outdoor concert in Dubai later this year. Ronan Keating will take to the stage at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre on Friday November 21, for a one-night-only gig. With more than 25 million records sold worldwide, including 10 top 10 singles and three number ones, it's bound to be a hugely popular show at the Dubai Media City venue. You can expect a night of sing-along anthems and timeless ballads such as Life is a Rollercoaster, When You Say Nothing At All and If Tomorrow Never Comes. Tickets for the concert start from Dhs199 in the super early bird sale for the concert organised by pub chain McGettigan's. The amphitheatre will be converted into a top concert venue with a fan-first experience, including food trucks, bars and an open-air atmosphere. Tickets for the nostalgic show will be for over 21s only. Ronan Keating first made his name as the frontman of Boyzone before going on to find fame as a solo artist. Ronan Keating Dubai tickets Super early bird, Dhs199 (extremely limited availability) Early bird, Dhs249 (limited availability) Regular, Dhs299 (standard general access) Fan pit, Dhs399 (dedicated fan zone in front of the stage) Individual, Dhs499 (access to premium raised viewing deck and three drink tokens) Table for four (standing), Dhs1,899 (includes access for four people and 12 drink tokens) Table for six (seated), Dhs2,799 (includes six people and 18 drink tokens) Fri Nov 21. From Dhs199. Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. In other Dubai news The incredible music festivals coming soon to Dubai The big events to know about All the best concerts and gigs coming to Dubai in 2025 There's a show for every taste Brilliant Dubai staycation deals to snap up this summer From free breakfasts to spa treatments
What's On
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
8 amazing things to do in Dubai this week: June 30 to July 3
Looking for things to do in Dubai this week? From a healthy afternoon tea to a digital art experience to a new bar with a lads night, there's just so many cool things to experience. Here are 8 fun things to do in Dubai this week: Monday, June 30 Soak up golden hour at Burj Al Arab The Burj Al Arab is something you probably pass by often here in Dubai, but have you ever had a chance to see what it looks like on the inside? Now you can, and you don't have to have a restaurant booking or a room booked. Opt for the Burj Al Arab Tour where you can explore this iconic landmark, including the opulent Royal Suite and immersive Experience Suite. After the tour, you can enjoy a complimentary drink at either UMA Lounge – a chic outdoor sanctuary with panoramic sunset views, or Observation Lounge on the 25th floor where you'll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai's glittering skyline. The 60 to 90-minute experience will cost you Dhs249, and is available daily from 5pm onwards. Enjoying yourself? Stay for longer and pay just Dhs50 per drink. Location: Burj Al Arab, Umm Suqeim Cost: Dhs249 per person Times: Daily from 5pm Website: This cafe is wheely good Prefer cafes over restaurants? You have plenty of options around Dubai. And if you love cars, too, there are a number of cafes where coffee and fast cars come together. And one spot to try is the amgkaffeehausdxb. Named after the Mercedes-Benz founders (Aufrecht, Melcher, and Großaspach), there are two locations in Dubai – in City Walk and Dubai Design District, and it is the place to be for AMG devotees. You can unwind with your favorite brew, dine on delectable cuisine and talk your heart out about cars. They even do their own afternoon tea at Dubai Design District which you can enjoy with views of two iconic Mercedes-Benz models on display. And yes, the cafe even sells AMG merch. PS. If you love Formula 1, they will screen the races, and this weekend, the race takes place at Silverstone. Location: City Walk on Happiness Street and Dubai Design District in the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center, Times: open daily from 8am. @amgkaffeehausdxb Tuesday, July 1 Theatre of Digital Art You don't need to have an art history degree to recognise the masterpieces by some of the greatest painters that have walked our earth. And if you love the well-known works of art such as Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, the Waterlilies by Monet, and The Kiss by Gustav Klimt, then the Art Masters Night experience at Theatre of Digital Art is one you don't want to miss. You will go on a 360-degree digital journey through the works of these popular artists and many more. You will walk out with plenty of photos, new favourite paintings, and you may even learn a thing or two. Book your show here. Location: Theatre of Digital Art, Souk Madinat Jumeirah Contact: (0) 4 277 4044. @todadubai It's happy hour at the Circus Bar StreetXO Life's a circus at times, so why not enjoy a drink while the show goes on? At the Cirus Bar, your evenings take a wild turn with inventive cocktails starting from Dhs50 and tapas from Dhs35. Besides the enjoyable treats, you will get an energetic atmosphere you are sure to enjoy. It's perfect for a post-work get-together with colleagues or loved ones. Location: Circus Bar, StreetXO Dubai, The Garden, Za'abeel 1 Offer: Tapas from Dhs35, drinks from Dhs50 Times: Mon to Fri, 5pm to 7pm Contact: ( 0)4 666 1617. @ Wednesday, July 2 The art of guilt-free indulgence Penrose Lounge Love an afternoon tea but find yourself heading back home trying to count calories? Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre has the solution. The stylish hotel has launched a new sugar-free afternoon tea which has been curated to celebrate wellness and mindful eating. 'How?' you ask. The desserts and pastries have been crafted using naturally derived sugar alternatives, including white crystalline date sugar, extracted through an all-natural process, and coconut sugar, an eco-friendly favourite known for its lower glycemic index. You can expect the same dainty bites on the tiers, with zero guilt. There's even an alcohol-free mocktail selection you can opt for. Location: Penrose Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, DIFC Cost: Dhs290 for two with coffee or tea or Dhs325 with champagne Times: Daily 2pm to 6pm Contact: (0)4 506 0000. @fsdubaidifc Early dining done right Mott 32 Award-winning Mott 32 has launched a new offer that early diners are just going to love. A Taste of Mott is an early evening dining session running from 6pm to 8pm daily, offering a three-course set menu for Dhs250 (minimum two-guest booking). It serves up some of the best dishes from Mott 32, including its Peking duck salad, king prawn har gow, braised eggplant with chili, wok-fried Angus beef, and more. For dessert, there's the delicate yet indulgent oolong tea, almond and chocolate xiao long bao. If you want to pair it with sips, ask for the pairing menu and tailor your experience to your own taste. Location: Al Mamsha Street, Dubai Marina Cost: Dhs 250 per person (minimum two bookings required) Times: Daily 6pm to 8pm Contact: ( 0) 4 278 4832 . @mott32dubai Thursday, July 3 Ladies, plan your midweek escape Virgin Izakaya If you're seeking some catch-up time with your friends, make plans to visit Virgin Izakaya. On Thursday, Joshi Kai 2.0 offers up three hours of free-flowing drinks and two gourmet Japanese bites for Dhs150. You can pair your night with views of Ain Dubai and the stunning skyline, plus a live DJ. Location: B luewaters Island Cost: Dhs150 for two bites and unlimited drinks Times: From 7pm every Thursday Contact: ( 0)4 589 8689. @ This one is for the boys Yes, gents, we haven't forgotten about you. The Sports Bar Dubai is a newly opened spot at La Mezcaleria at Pavilion at The Beach, and on Thursday, all the lads can enjoy some pretty cool pocket-friendly deals. For Dhs99, you can enjoy a beer bucket (four beers), or if you want to enjoy some bites with your sips, pay Dhs149 and get two starters and a beer bucket, or if you want a bigger meal, pay Dhs199 and get a starter, a main, and a beer bucket. While you're there, you can enjoy the conversation with your mates, watch live sporting action, or get a little competitive yourself with a game of pool. Get this in the group chat and book your spots. Location: The Sports Bar Dubai, La Mezcaleria at Pavilion at The Beach Cost: Deals from Dhs99 Times: Every Thursday Contact: @thesportsbardubai Images: Supplied
What's On
05-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- What's On
16 of the best afternoon teas in Dubai in 2025
Sweet and savoury treats, tea prepared by certified sommeliers, music from a grand piano, this is what you can expect from the afternoon tea at The Lana. You will be able to tuck into sandwiches such as smoked Scottish salmon, truffle egg, scones with Devon clotted cream, laminated coffee brioche, and more. With temperatures rising, you can pair your meal with refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonades prepared tableside. To top off your experience, you will get to enjoy stunning views of Downtown Dubai. The Lana, Marasi Dr, Business Bay, Dubai, available daily from 1pm to 6pm, from Dhs600, Tel: (0)4 541 7755. Image: Set within the glass conservatory of Address Beach Resort, The Lounge offers a calm, all-day setting, but the Breeze Blossom Afternoon Tea is the real standout. Served daily from 3pm to 8pm, it includes unlimited hot and cold beverages, priced at Dhs198 per person. For those looking to elevate the experience, it's Dhs249 with a glass of Zonin Prosecco or Dhs298 with a glass of Louis Roederer Champagne. From Thursday to Saturday, a live harpist plays from 4pm, just the right kind of detail to make an afternoon feel like an occasion. Address Beach Resort, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, daily 3pm to 10pm, starting at Dhs198 per set, Tel: (0)4 879 8888. Voted What's On Dubai ‘s best Afternoon Tea 2021, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk afternoon tea serves up its afternoon tea in a sophisticated vault at Bijou Patisserie (lobby lounge). Prices start from Dhs195 for the afternoon tea with tea, coffee and homemade lemonade. You can elevate your experience and enjoy the afternoon tea above the clouds on the 51st floor at the exclusive Club Millesime with prices starting from Dhs385. Bijou Patisserie, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, lobby lounge, Wafi, Dubai, daily 2pm to 6pm, Tel: (0)4 281 4111. A solid choice if you're hosting out-of-towners, this spot offers unbeatable views of Burj Al Arab. The terrace is perfect for those cooler months when you want to enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat. Afternoon tea here is all about variety, think carefully curated sandwiches, cakes, and scones, served in a setting that's elegant yet relaxed. The service is spot on, and there’s an impressive tea menu to choose from if you're a fan of the brew. Al Fayrooz Lounge, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Umm Suqeim. Aspen Cafe by Kempinski at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates offers afternoon tea with nibbles ranging from sandwiches and wraps to scones and cakes. For sips, you's have non-alcoholic bubbly and freshly brewed beverages. The offer is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. It costs Dhs200 per adult or Dhs375 for two. Kempinski Hotel, Mall of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, daily 1pm to 7pm, Tel: (04) 409 5999. The Hi-Tea is a decadent affair at the luxury hotel, Palazzo Versace. Sample an assortment of finger sandwiches, plain scones with homemade jam; clotted cream; and lemon curd, and a variety of pastries. Pair it with Damman Freres tea. Only want tea to pair? It's Dhs378 for two guests, but if you want two glasses of Prosecco, it's Dhs504. If you're meeting mates over a quick catch-up, opt for the Cream Tea offer which will get you fruit and plain scones, served with clotted cream, homemade jam and lemon curd and tea for Dhs95 per person. Palazzo Versace, Culture Village, Al Jadaf, Dubai, daily 10.30am to 7pm. Tel: (0)4 556 8888. For tea lovers who think they've seen it all, this spot is a must-try. Set in the vast lobby of one of the world's most famous hotels, it's hard to miss the dramatic water droplet sculpture and the fire walls at the entrance, the setting is as striking as the tea. When it comes to the tea itself, it's all about the experience. With a detailed run-through of the tea-brewing process, you'll get to enjoy a range of top-tier sandwiches and a generous spread of cakes. It's one for the tea connoisseurs who appreciate the finer details. The Royal Tearoom, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 2pm to 5pm, priced at Dhs560 for two people. Tel: (04) 426 2000 Treat yourself to an afternoon of luxury with the Grand Palaces Afternoon Tea, served in the stunning Bluthner Hall. Here you can enjoy decadent desserts inspired by Europe's most famous palaces, including the airy Victoria Sponge Cake and rich Sacher Torte. Alongside, enjoy a selection of savoury bites, sandwiches, tarts, pastries, and scones, all paired with a choice of carefully curated Nina's Marie Antoinette teas, coffee, or hot chocolate. Raffles The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah. Tel: (0)4 248 8888). Image: Your afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton will include traditional scones, elegant sandwiches, and sweet treats such as truffles, macaroons and cakes. There are two options to pick from: traditional for Dhs215 which comes with tea or hot beverages, and Royal Treat for Dhs305 which includes a glass of champagne. You can even add Dhs150 per person for two hours of free-flowing sparkling wine. The Ritz-Carlton, The Walk, JBR, Dubai, daily 12.30pm to 5pm, Dhs215 for traditional and Dhs305 for royal, Tel: (04) 318 6150. Expect dainty bites and elegant flavours at Peacock Alley's Meet me at the Clock afternoon tea. On the savoury side, there's wild crab with caviar, black truffle pommes mousseline, smoked salmon roulade, and foie gras puffs, alongside classic sandwiches like tuna and aioli on brioche and coronation chicken on whole grain. Sweet treats include strawberry and rose cake, mango cheesecake, pistachio and raspberry mousse, and warm scones served with clotted cream and seasonal jams. A selection of fine teas completes the experience, with the option to add a glass of bubbly if you fancy. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, available Sunday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225, Tel: (0)4 515 9818. Shai Salon at Four Seasons Resort Dubai marks a decade of sweet memories with its limited-edition ‘A Decade in Desserts’ afternoon tea. Crafted by Senior Executive Pastry Chef Nicolas Lambert, the menu takes guests on a journey through the cities that shaped him, from Hong Kong and St. Petersburg to Dubai. Expect creations like Fra-Sia “Vacherin†with white strawberry, yuzu and basil; a raspberry and almond biscuit layered with lemon cream; and Chocolates “Caprice†with white chocolate brownie and caramelised cocoa nibs. Highlights also include the Honey “Bee†with Hatta Mountain honey and apricot, Exotic “Cloud†with passion fruit and coconut, and Le Clafoutis de Jeannot, a warm blueberry dessert with Tahitian vanilla creme fraiche. Served with your choice of tea or coffee. Shai Salon, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, daily 3pm to 7pm, from Dhs260. Tel: (0)4 270 7805. You'll get a selection of delectable treats at this all-new afternoon tea experience at Peacock Alley. Pick from the brew package, a pink gin cocktail package or a champagne package. The afternoon tea runs daily from 2pm to 6pm and starts at Dhs225 per person. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria, Palm Jumeirah, daily 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225 for classic, upgrade with a glass of bubbly for Dhs100. Tel:(0) 4 818 2222. Raffles is serving the Classic Afternoon Tea, priced at Dhs195 per person, available daily from 2pm to 6pm. Plus, there is now a Kids' Afternoon Tea (for children aged 12 and below) at Dhs75 per child. The experience features a delightful selection of savoury treats and sweet delicacies, elegantly presented on Victorian-style gold stands with unlimited tea and coffee served. Raffles Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Road, Wafi, Dubai, daily, 2pm to 6pm. Tel: (04) 324 8888. Godiva Cafe at Rixos Premium Dubai is offering a scrumptious afternoon tea experience combining Belgian chocolate heritage with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Savoury bites include cured salmon with caviar to Ottoman shrimp cocktail, sucuk & cheese Brioche and vegetarian quesadillas. On the sweet selection, there's Godiva's signature creations such as white chocolate cheesecake with kunafa crust, Turkish coffee chocolate swans, caramel eclairs, and Creme Brulee. Pair your experience with Dammann Freres tea s, or a choice of iced or flavoured coffee. It's Dhs179 per person, or Dhs269 for two, and the afternoon tea is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. Godiva Cafe, Rixos Premium Dubai, Dubai, 3pm to 6pm daily, Dhs179 for one and Dhs269 for two, Tel: (0)4 520 0000. @rixospremiumdubai Love an afternoon tea? Try the quintessential British tradition with an Arabic twist at Open Sesame at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown. The Neighborhood Arabic Tea Experience includes flavours from camel milk rose ganache to labneh-cucumber sandwiches and beyond. Offer: Dhs250 for two with afternoon tea , Dhs350 afternoon tea for two and art tour When: daily 1pm to 5pm Location: Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown Contact: 056 422 7120. @opensesamedubai Escape the summer heat with a refreshing twist on a classic tradition. At The Samovar Lounge, One&Only Royal Mirage, you can enjoy a selection of delicate pastries, and cool infusions served in the serene ambiance of Samovar Lounge. Ideal for a relaxed catch-up or a refined afternoon indulgence. Offer: Dhs210 per person with tea and coffee, Dhs395 with a glass of champagne Additional Dhs250 for candle making with Kinza Studio. Timings: Daily from 3pm to 6pm Location: The Samovar Lounge, One&Only Royal Mirage. Contact: (0)4 399 9999. Booking required with 48 hours in advance
Time Out Abu Dhabi
04-06-2025
- Business
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Wizz Air just announced direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Beirut
Big news for frequent flyers and falafel fans – Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has just launched its very first direct route to Beirut. That's right, one of the UAE's favourite ultra-low-fare airlines is now connecting the capital with Lebanon's cultural powerhouse and it's doing it for less than the price of a fancy dinner out. Flights kicked off on Tuesday June 4 and now run three times a week – every Monday, Wednesday and Friday – with one-way fares starting from just Dhs249. It's the only ultra-low-cost direct connection between Abu Dhabi and Beirut, making it a game-changer for Lebanese expats, spontaneous city-breakers and anyone dreaming of a weekend in the mountains followed by a mezze marathon. Flights are already close to fully booked for the next few weeks – so if you're thinking of heading to the Levantine coast for a breezy escape, now's the time to jump online. And while you're there, tick off Beirut's Raouché Rocks, its buzzing Downtown district or the sprawling souks. Or go further afield with quick day trips to Batroun, Byblos or the Chouf Mountains – all within easy reach once you land. The new Beirut route is just the latest addition to Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's growing network across the Middle East, Central Asia and Europe. Route Operating days Starting from Fares from Abu Dhabi – Beirut Monday, Wednesday, Friday 4 June 2025 Dhs249 Tamara Vallois, head of commercial at Wizz Air said: 'Today marks a historic occasion of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's first landing in Lebanon. This new route opens up more opportunities for families, businesses, and tourists to travel affordably between two vibrant capitals, which is already underlined by the fact that our flights for the upcoming weeks are nearly all sold out. 'We stay committed to contributing to the Abu Dhabi ecosystem by boosting tourism and business links between the countries and our crew looks forward to seeing many happy customers on board soon for a well-deserved summer vacation visiting loved ones or discovering the many gems this incredible country has to offer.' H.E. Laura Lahoud, Minister of Tourism for Lebanon, added: 'The launch of direct flights between the UAE capital and Beirut by Wizz Air Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in our mission to revitalise Lebanon's tourism sector. 'This new route strengthens regional connectivity, fosters cultural exchange and aligns with our vision of making Lebanon more accessible to travellers. It will also be an important driver of travel demand and supports the creation of jobs and economic growth. We welcome this partnership and look forward to more visitors experiencing the beauty, rich history and renowned hospitality that Lebanon has to offer.' Need some travel inspo? Travelling from Abu Dhabi is about to be so much faster Zayed International Airport is the world's first airport to make this change 18 countries offering visa-on-arrival to UAE residents Here's where to go UAE citizens now get visa-on-arrival for India: a game-changer for travellers That quick trip to India just got even easier
