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Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
From vlogs to ventures: Why creators are choosing Dubai
Image Credit : Dubai Frame Content creation has evolved into a powerful business. What once started as a form of self-expression for young individuals has now paved the way for a new generation of digital entrepreneurs—ranging from influencers and vloggers to solopreneurs building full-fledged media ventures. Before long, Dubai—once primarily a social media stopover for light-hearted content and globe-trotting influencers—has begun its transformation into one of the world's most structured creator economies. Over the past three years, the city has reimagined its global appeal—not just as a centre for finance or tourism but as a serious contender in the rapidly expanding creator economy. A growing number of creators are now establishing their base in Dubai, attracted by its business-friendly regulations, advanced digital infrastructure, and a deliberate government push to formalise and scale the influencer industry. Gaurav Taneja, a former commercial pilot turned YouTube megastar – known as Flying Beast - has gone on record to state that Dubai is one of the few places where creators are treated as entrepreneurs, not just entertainers with cameras. And rightly so; creators today are entrepreneurs running businesses that encompass multiple aspects, including production, distribution, and marketing. What helps is platforms like Creator HQ , developed by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy in collaboration with Dubai Media City. It is a purpose-built platform for the creator economy. It delivers end-to-end support—from streamlined freelance visas and production-ready workspaces to legal guidance, brand partnerships, and business training—designed to help digital creators scale their ventures professionally. The model is built to help digital talent grow—not just followers but sustainable revenue models. 'It's about turning influence into income, and income into impact,' stated a spokesperson from Dubai Chamber. Creator HQ aims to support up to 10,000 influencers and digital entrepreneurs by offering a suite of services—including streamlined freelance visas, production-ready workspaces, legal guidance, brand partnerships, and business training. The initiative is designed to help creators evolve from content to commerce—with support across licensing, relocation, and monetisation models tailored to the UAE's digital economy. South Asian creators—particularly from India—form a significant share of Dubai's growing digital talent pool. What makes the city especially attractive is a rare combination of proximity, perception, and profitability. With a flight time of under 3.5 hours from India, zero personal income tax, and one of the most advanced digital infrastructures in the Middle East, Dubai offers a compelling value proposition for creators looking to scale regionally and globally. 'Every city sells a dream,' says Prajakta Koli, aka MostlySane, one of India's most beloved YouTubers. 'But Dubai gives you a studio, a setup, a strategy, and safety—all in one. It's not just aspirational; it's operational.' For many mid-tier influencers—those with 100,000 to 1 million followers—Dubai is also a growth hack. With access to regional and global audiences across Asia, Africa, and Europe, the UAE offers distribution diversity that's both algorithmically and commercially valuable. Dubai's creator infrastructure goes beyond visas and brand deals. The emirate's free zones—like Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, and Dubai Studio City—function as plug-and-play environments for tech and media professionals. 'These free zones give us more than just tax relief,' explains Nuseir Yassin, founder of Nas Daily. 'They offer creative freedom with minimal red tape, the ability to own 100% of your business and a mindset that encourages experimentation.' Yassin, whose short-form storytelling empire now spans multiple countries, set up his base in the UAE precisely for this reason. Dubai's regulatory and digital infrastructure is designed to proactively support innovation. Perhaps the most significant shift in Dubai's approach is how it treats creators not as entertainers but as micro-enterprises. The city has seen a notable increase in the issuance of freelance permits to digital content professionals in recent years, reflecting its commitment to fostering the creator economy. This growth underscores Dubai's strategic emphasis on supporting digital entrepreneurs through initiatives like Creator HQ and various free zone offerings. Many of these include Indian-origin creators who have turned their side hustles into registered commercial entities. A Delhi-based travel blogger, Rishabh Jain, who relocated to Dubai in 2023, stated that he started with Instagram Reels. Now, with his shift to Dubai, he has obtained a business license, a team of three editors, and a content agency. Image Credit: Museums of the Future The Emirate has also made financing easier. Several banks and fintech platforms have products for this economy—offering influencer-focused credit, revenue-linked payment plans, and financial literacy workshops through Creator HQ. Another significant factor is its collaborative ecosystem; frequent mixers hosted by Dubai Media City bring together influencers, production houses, tech startups, and tourism boards under one roof. These aren't just networking events— they're collaborative content hubs that catalyze business connections. In early 2025, a Creator Residency Programme funded by Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) brought together ten creators from India, Egypt, and the Philippines to co-create a travel mini-series titled 'City of Stories," which was later syndicated by Emirates Airlines' in-flight entertainment platform. The Mumbai-based food blogger Neha Vora, who participated in the programme, added that it is the kind of support that is rarely seen. She said it isn't just about posting content but building brands. India remains one of the top three contributors to Dubai's creator economy, reflecting the deepening trade and cultural synergies between the two countries. Dubai's creator-centric momentum also ties into a larger strategy unfolding across the Gulf: leveraging soft power through digital storytelling. According to a recent Goldman Sachs report , the creator economy is projected to reach $480 billion by 2027—signalling a shift from likes to long-term economic value. What's taking shape in Dubai is more than just a migration of influencers—it's the emergence of a new economic frontier. As traditional sectors face saturation, the city is investing in the power of digital influence to drive growth, shape narratives, and extend its global reach. With creators now recognised as entrepreneurs and ecosystem contributors, Dubai is not only keeping pace with the evolving digital economy—it's also setting the stage for what comes next. Click this link for more on Business in Dubai. This article is a part of a featured content series on Business in Dubai.
Time Out Dubai
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
13 top-tier Dubai attractions remaining open for summer 2025
Summer 2025 is just around the corner, and ultimately, it comes hand in hand with scorching temperatures, Global Village going on hiatus and discovering the most efficient temperature to keep your AC. You might also like: 4 top outdoor Dubai attractions you need to visit before they close in the summer The balmy season also has a few perks (read: reduced traffic, deals and night swims galore) and, surprisingly, plenty of Dubai's top attractions are still open to enjoy. From must-visit museums to futuristic experiences primed for your Insta feed, here are the best summer attractions that will stay open even when it's hot. Dubai attractions open for summer 2025 AYA Universe (Credit: Supplied) The interactive exhibition is a tour through 12 different zones, all of which invite you to open your eyes to the cosmos. The only one of its kind in Dubai, you can enjoy each room as you experience the wonders of the universe . Think giant galaxy ball pit, running through the rain, and a spot to lie down and look up at the stars. You might have only gone to Wafi City, but you'll feel in a whole other world at AYA. Dhs135. Sun-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. AYA, Wafi City, Oud Metha, (04 542 0300). Dubai Aquarium (Credit: Supplied) Dive under the sea at the aquarium in Dubai Mall, where you can check out over 140 different species of sea creatures, big and small. If you're not afraid of a dorsal fin, why not jump in the tank and take a shark dive alongside a professional guide. If you would rather stay dry, take a stroll through the underwater tunnel, or take the little ones for an otter or penguin encounter instead. From Dhs169. Mon-Fri 10am-10:15pm, Sat-Sun 10am-11:15pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 3822 6255). Dubai Frame It isn't just a stand-out structure that captures the city in a colossal-sized frame, visitors can actually go inside and up to the bridge of Dubai Frame over at Zabeel Park. And, the views of 'old' and 'new' Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge look superb whether you're there for the day, sunset or at night. The bridge has a completely see-through bottom to it – walk across it and be labelled one of the bravest of the bunch at one of the best attractions in Dubai. From Dhs50 (adult), Dhs20 (child). Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, (800900). Dubai Parks and Resorts (Credit: Supplied) Made up of three theme parks and a water park, Dubai Parks and Resorts is a one-stop shop for family fun if you've got little thrill-seekers in your brood. If you live in the UAE, you can get yourself an annual pass for either all the parks, or you can choose which two you will most likely be visiting more often that the others. It will really save you a lot of money in the long term, plus gives you exclusive benefits such as discount on food and drinks and information about seasonal events ahead of the general public. Starting from Dhs165. Open daily 4pm-midnight. Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai, Etihad Museum Etihad Museum takes visitors on a unique journey through decades of remarkable progress. The striking culture spot, which is shaped like a manuscript, includes permanent and temporary halls, a theatre, an educational area, interactive maps and videos, and more. It's a must-see if you're looking to immerse yourself in the past. Dhs25 (adult), Dhs10 (child). Open daily 10am-8pm. Jumeirah 1, Dubai, (04 515 5771). House of Hype After opening in February at Dubai Mall, House of Hype is here to give you a cool Insta-op. 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. As it's inside and air conditioned, it's the perfect place to spend an hour or four on a hot summer's day. Dhs149. Level One, Open daily 10am-midnight (last entry 11pm) Chinatown, Dubai Mall. (971 4 268 3611) IMG Worlds of Adventure (Credit: Supplied) The largest indoor theme park in Dubai has six different zones, so prepare to spend the entire day here. Marvel-lovers can meet their favourite heroes in person, as well as be flung around on the Hulk Epsilon rollercoaster as many times as they please. Featuring attractions for the whole family, other zones include the Cartoon Network, a Haunted Hotel and the IMG Kids Zone. General admission from Dhs365. Sun-Thurs noon-10pm, Fri-Sat noon-11pm. City of Arabia, (04 403 8888). KidZania Credit: Supplied Catering to kids between the ages of four and 16, this edutainment (education meets entertainment – get it?) centre in The Dubai Mall is basically a replica of a mini-city complete with paved streets and even a functioning economy. KidZania offers a safe environment where little ones can use their imagination to explore 'work' as a pilot, dentist, doctor, fireman, or even a journalist. Dhs195 (kids standard), Dhs260 (kids premium), Dhs90 (adults), Dhs120 (kids aged 2-3) kids under 2 go free. Level 2, Dubai Mall. Sun-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. (800 38224 6255) Madame Tussauds (Credit: Supplied) Best for: Your best mate who's destined for the red carpet. It's time to get up close to some of your favourite celebs and snap a selfie with the stars – well, close enough. Take a tour through the world-famous waxwork museum, with both local faces and international superstars posing inside. Visitors heading down during the summer months will even be treated to an appearance from Chris Hemsworth (the wax version) – what more convincing do you need? From Dhs115. Sun-Thurs noon-8pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm, Bluewaters Island, (04 873 3042). Museum of the Future It's being called the most beautiful building on Earth, and we say for good reason. The architectural and engineering marvel opened up early in 2022 and it takes visitors on a journey into the future. The building combines advanced technology with traditional art-forms, and the museum has spectacular experiences for all ages. A must-visit for sure. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-9pm. Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Ski Dubai Sure, there are sand dunes to be seen, but you can't come to Dubai without checking out its phenomenal must-see indoor ski slope, which now not only provides great runs for skiers and boarders, but is also home to a colony of penguins and a snow park for all kinds of winter-themed fun. From Dhs230. Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri,10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (800386). The Green Planet Credit: The Green Planet Dubai Yes, it's exactly what it says on the tin. The Green Planet is Dubai's indoor rainforest (as you do). Inviting guests on a wild adventure, walk through the different floors of the rainforest as you make your way up to the canopy. Home to thousands of cute and creepy creatures from bats and monkeys to birds and even piranhas, it's a great place to make some forest friends and learn about their habitat. From Dhs129. Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Wasl, (800 7699). The View at the Palm Catch stunning 360-degree views 240 meters above the world-famous Palm Jumeirah. From level 52 of the iconic Palm Tower, the viewing deck sees you spying Dubai's iconic landmarks around the city and discovering hidden gems. Look around your favourite city with an eye you've never used before. From Dhs110. Open daily 9am-8pm (last entry 7.30pm). The View, Palm Jumeirah, (800 8438439). Looking for things to do in Dubai? 112 best things to do in Dubai in 2025 Everything to tick off your Dubai bucket list 50 free things to do in Dubai Feeling the pinch? Enter free things to do Here's how to eat at 10 expensive Dubai restaurants for less Early bird dinners, lunch specials and more
28-02-2025
What's New This Ramadan in the UAE: A Complete Guide
As Ramadan 1446/2025 approaches, various adjustments will impact work schedules, public transport, parking, school hours, and community activities. The holy month is expected to begin on March 1, with fasting hours ranging from 12 hours 58 minutes at the start to 13 hours 41 minutes by the end. Salik Toll Rates: Peak hours (9 AM – 5 PM on weekdays): AED 6 Off-peak hours (7 AM – 9 AM & 5 PM – 2 AM on weekdays): AED 4 Monday – Saturday (2 AM – 7 AM): Free Sundays: AED 4 (7 AM – 2 AM), Free (2 AM – 7 AM) Dubai Metro: Monday to Thursday, Saturday: 5 AM – 12 AM Friday: 5 AM – 1 AM Sunday: 8 AM – 12 AM Dubai Tram: Monday to Saturday: 6 AM – 1 AM Sunday: 9 AM – 1 AM Parking Timings (Monday – Saturday): First Period: 8 AM – 6 PM Second Period: 8 PM – 12 AM Parking is free between 6 PM – 8 PM and all day on Sundays Sharjah: Paid parking from 8 AM – 12 AM Work Hours & Remote Work Policies Public Sector: Monday – Thursday: 9 AM – 2:30 PM Friday: 9 AM – 12 PM Up to 70% of federal employees can work remotely on Fridays Private Sector: Working hours reduced by two hours per day Flexible & Remote Work in Government: Dubai: Employees can work remotely two days per week, with flexible shifts up to three hours daily Sharjah & Ajman: 9 AM – 2:30 PM, with remote work options Education & Remote Learning Public Schools: Fridays designated for distance learning (ex cept students with exams) Fridays designated for distance learning cept students with exams) Private Schools (Dubai): Option for remote learning on Fridays, with accommodations for students needing in-person attendance Parks & Attractions Timings Public Parks & Recreational Areas: Zabeel, Al Khor, Mushrif National Park: 9 AM – 11 PM Safa Park: 12 PM – 10 PM Mamzar Park: 8 AM – 10 PM Children's City: 9 AM – 4 PM (Weekdays), 11 AM – 4 PM (Weekends) Dubai Parks: Open 8 AM – 1 AM, walking tracks available after Fajr prayers Dubai Frame: 10 AM – 7 PM Global Village: 5 PM – 1 AM (Sunday – Wednesday), 5 PM – 2 AM (Thursday – Saturday) Sharjah Parks: Open 4 PM – Midnight, some until 1 AM Supermarket Discounts & Community Support Major supermarket chains offering discounts: 50% off on 10,000 products Lulu Hypermarket: 65% off on 5,500 products One retailer announced AED 35 million worth of discounts Permits for late-night business operations now available Restaurants can apply for Ramadan food display permits Iftar Cannon Locations Dubai Police will place stationary & mobile Iftar cannons across the city Sharjah Police confirmed 10 cannon locations, including Al Majaz Waterfront and various suburb councils Fundraising and donations must be done through licensed platforms Begging is illegal, punishable by up to three months in jail and AED 5,000 fine Organizing begging networks can result in six months' imprisonment and fines up to AED 100,000 Unauthorized fundraising carries fines up to AED 500,000 A cold wave in February resulted in a five-degree temperature drop, with cooler weather expected in early Ramadan Increased shopping activity, as families stock up on essentials With adjusted work hours, transport schedules, and community events, Ramadan in the UAE will see enhanced public services, flexible work policies, and a focus on social responsibility. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
27-02-2025
- Khaleej Times
Dubai reveals timings of public parks attractions for Ramadan 2025
Are you planning to enjoy the last few weeks of pleasant weather outside before the summer season begins, or do you intend to spend time with family? Then, you should be aware of the changes in timings for public parks and attractions in Dubai. Take a look at the revised timings ahead of the holy month, below: Special parks, recreational facilities: Zabeel Park: 9am to 11pm Al Khor Park: 9am to 11pm Mushrif National Park: 9am to 11pm Safa Park: 12pm to 10pm Mamzar Park: 8am to 10pm Children's city: 9am to 4pm from Monday to Friday; 11am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday Mushrif National Park's Mountain Bike Trail & Hiking Path: 6.30am to 11pm Quranic Park: 8am to 10pm Cave and Glass House: 1pm to 9pm Dubai Parks: Dubai parks are open from 8am to 1am (post midnight). For those using walking tracks, gates will open after Fajr prayers. Al Marmoom Lakes (Love, Expo, Solar, Crescent Moon Lake) and Suhaila Lakes will be open for 24 hours on all 7 days of the week. Dubai Frame will be ope from 10am to 7pm.
FACT
11-02-2025
- FACT
18 of the UAE's most impressive world records
This list of accomplishments will blow your mind whilst inspiring once-in-a-lifetime experiences to enjoy with your family or friends. The Burj Khalifa towers over Downtown Dubai at a staggering 830 meters. It is one of the World's most iconic structures, drawing visitors from around the World. The building, which encompasses 163 floors, took six years to construct—from January 2004 to January 2010. It features observation decks, restaurants, a luxurious swimming pool, and the fashion-forward Armani Hotel Dubai. Perfect for tourists and locals alike, visitors can head to The Lounge for a dining experience high in the clouds. Dubai's Hatta Sign smashed its way into the Guinness World Records book in September 2023. Perched atop the Hajar Mountains, the 'Tallest Landmark Sign' in the world — a towering 19.28-meter structure — has swiftly become a symbol of Hatta and its status as one of the UAE's most picturesque regions. To put this achievement into perspective, the Hatta Sign surpasses the famed Hollywood sign, which stands at 13.7 metres. Like its American counterpart, this sign also lights up the night sky, adding to its allure. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is renowned for its luxurious and glamorous hotel suites with private butlers. Yet this Abu Dhabi address prides itself on being home to the World's highest suspended suite. Positioned 200 meters above the capital, the appropriately named 'Abu Dhabi Suite' is positioned between the 48th and 49th floors of Nation Towers. The two-storey suite boasts a grand staircase leading to three royal bedrooms, a commodious living room adorned in gold and velvet design, a dining room, a library, private cinema, a gymnasium and even a spa. Abu Dhabi's Andaz Capital Gate is just as eye-catching from the inside as it is from the external facade. Also known as the 'Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi', Andaz Capital Gate was designed to incline 18° west whilst rising 35-storeys to a height of 160 meters. In addition to the hotel, which takes over the 18th floor and above, the cobra-shaped building features ample office space and has become a landmark on the Abu Dhabi skyline. Dubai is home to Gevora Hotel, a 356-meter-high building with 529 leisurely suites and picture-perfect decor. The pristine, white-and-gold entrance leads to a selection of delicious dining experiences, a state-of-the-art health club, and child-friendly pool decks. As the tallest vacation spot in Dubai, Gevora Hotel is the ideal place to escape the chaos of the city. You certainly couldn't hold this lantern. Sharjah's Souq Al Jubail boasts a 13-meter-high lantern that is officially recognised as the largest lantern ever made. This warm welcome to the market invites customers to shop with its bold red glow. Initially, the Global Event Management Group built this replica for Sharjah's Ramadan celebrations in 2016 before becoming a permanent fixture at the entrance to the souq. The Dubai Frame is a glamorous picture frame located in the picturesque Zabeel Park. The monument, museum and observatory features a lift that ascends 48 floors to a height of 150 meters, where a glass-floored viewing deck awaits. This worthwhile attraction opened in early 2018 and offers views of old Dubai on one side and a modern metropolis on the other. The UAE is home to many swimming pools. However, Dubai reached extreme depths with the opening of Deep Dive Dubai in 2021. The World's deepest swimming pool reaches an impressive 60 meters and contains 14 million litres of fresh water. The attraction mimics a sunken city, featuring submerged cars and rooms, in an immersive experience for divers of all levels. The stunning Bluewaters Island is home to Ain Dubai, the largest Ferris wheel on the planet. Reaching a staggering height of 250 meters, the record-breaking structure offers unique views of Dubai's iconic landmarks from 48 air-conditioned cabins, which can hold up to 1,400 passengers. One rotation takes approximately 38 minutes, allowing guests to witness spectacular city views from the JBR skyline to the Burj Al Arab. Walk into a blossoming euphoria of colour and elegance at Dubai Miracle Garden. Here, more than 50 million natural flowers are arranged into impressive displays, including horses, aeroplanes, elephants and more. The family-friendly attraction is home to dining options and roaming entertainment. Swim 200 meters in the sky at the FACT Award-winning AURA Skypool Lounge, situated on the trunk of Palm Jumeriah. The World's first and highest 360 infinity pool offers mesmerising views of Dubai's skyline and a sky-high experience you don't want to miss. Reservations are essential. The maze tower stands out on the Dubai skyline thanks to its unique and unmissable design. The fascinating building on Sheikh Zayed Road was developed by Al Rostimani and comprises 57 floors. The skyscraper is home to office and residential space, as well as a rooftop swimming pool. From the outside, a vertical maze travels up the front and back of this building, exceeding a captivating global record as the world's largest vertical maze. Race through Abu Dhabi's Ferrari World at speeds of 240 kmph on the most intimidating rollercoaster in the World – Formula Rossa. This attraction opened in 2010 and has become a favourite for visitors to the UAE. In a matter of seconds, riders are thrust 52 meters into the air at exceptional speeds whilst offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reaching speeds of 70kmph, the Now You See Me High Roller at Motiongate Dubai currently holds the title of the world's fastest spinning rollercoaster. Not for the faint of heart, the thrilling ride features a seven-storey vertical drop as riders race to expose the antics of a criminal mastermind. CLYMB Abu Dhabi, on Yas Island, is home to the world's largest indoor climbing wall. This uniquely shaped building invites adventurers to step outside their comfort zone and into a world of adventure. CLYMB welcomes guests of all ages and levels of expertise to enjoy each of the five climbing walls. Whether you are a climber or just enjoy the sport, the SUMMYT wall will be something you do not want to miss out on. Rising a whopping 138 feet high, there are thirteen routes to reach the top. Delve into a world of adventure and cinema at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. The Yas Island attraction features 29 fun-filled rides that are perfect for all ages. Immerse yourself in a world of entertainment, where you can meet your television heroes, from Tom and Jerry to The Flintstones family and Batman. Plummet through the mountainous Ras Al Khaimah landscape, down a zipline at 160kmph. The world's longest zipline on the UAE's tallest peak takes a total of three minutes to complete and has been enjoyed by over 70,000 people. Rosella Jewelry is a producer of bracelets, earrings and rings with stores in Al Barsha and the Gold Souk. Their handmade accessories are impressive, but the gold ring in Deira's Gold Souk is like no other. The 21-karat gold piece, named Najmat Taiba, weighs 64 kilograms and has been crafted with crystal detailing. The unique ring was made in the year 2000 and has been valued at AED 11 million.
