Latest news with #DubaiMall
Time Out Dubai
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
5 major Dubai changes in June: Eid Al Adha, Dubai Mall update, Islamic New Year
Dubai is constantly evolving and everything moves at such a fast pace, it can be hard to keep up with what's happening when we're all so busy. Major Dubai changes are announced all the time, often a long time in advance, and it can be surprising when they finally come into force. In June, we'll enjoy three public holidays, but see the closure of a major car park at Dubai Mall. And if you think it's been hot lately, then you've seen nothing yet. Dubai changes in June The Eid Al Adha break gets underway Eid Al Fitr start date confirmed (Credit: Canva) Combined with Arafat Day, Eid Al Adha will give us a lovely four-day long weekend in the first week of June. Starting from Thursday June 6 until Sunday June 9, Dubai public and private sector workers will enjoy an extended break to mark the start of the public holiday. And as with all public holidays in Dubai, we can expect changes to public transport and parking across the city as well as plenty of fun festivities to mark the occasion. Islamic New Year gives us time off The Islamic New Year public holiday is coming soon (Credit: Supplied) The second major UAE public holiday (or third if you count Arafat Day as its own holiday) of the month, Islamic New Year will arrive at the end of June. Current predictions indicate that the Islamic New Year will arrive on Thursday June 26. Similarly to Eid Al Adha, you can expect changes to public transport timings and parking across the city. Summer starts in Dubai The official summer start date for Dubai has been revealed (Credit: Adobe Express) While the glasses have been steaming up recently, summer in Dubai doesn't officially get underway until near the end of June. According to astronomical calculations, the Dubai summer officially begins on Saturday June 21 this year. The summer start date is marked by the summer solstice, which is also the day with the longest period of daylight and the shortest night of the year in the hemisphere. Many top attractions in Dubai close during the summer but there are plenty of brilliant things to do indoors to beat the heat. Grand Parking at Dubai Mall to close (Credit: Emaar) Grand Parking at Dubai Mall will close temporarily in June as part of the mall's ongoing expansion plans. With 694 parking slots, Grand Parking is the smallest of four car parks at the world's busiest mall. The car park, which can be found on the Financial Street side of Dubai Mall, will close ahead of the opening of New Grand Drive in August. To find out about the alternative options and closed entrance points, head here. Dubai Summer Surprises returns The new season is nearly here Dubai Summer Surprises, the annual programme of events, sales and concerts in the emirate, will return in June. Promising 66 days of fun, this year the event will run from Friday June 27 until Sunday August 31. This year's DSS will see sales anchored around three distinct shopping windows – Summer Holiday Offers, the Great Dubai Summer Sale and Back to School. These sales will bring plenty of new offers, exclusive promotions and big mall activations to the city. In addition to these big sales periods, there will be plenty of big concerts coming to Dubai throughout the summer. Amazing things to do in Dubai 50 free things to do in Dubai Want to explore Dubai but save money? Here's your guide Where to celebrate your birthday for free in Dubai Free drinks, water park access, cake and more Outdoor breakfast spots: 32 best places to start your day Start your day with fantastic food and fresh air
Fashion Network
18 hours ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
As Tala opens first UK store, tariffs bite and its US expansion is paused
Athleisure brand Tala's growth has seemed to be unstoppable in recent periods but its US expansion is having to take a back seat for now. In response to tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, its £5 million investment in growing the American market is now on ice. The Times reported that CEO Morgan Fowles and founder Grace Beverley have decided to remove most of its products from its US webstore due to 'obstacles to trading'. But should those obstacles continue, given the importance of the US market, it could be forced to shift its production from China and Vietnam, two countries at the sharp end of the tariffs imposition. Fowles told the newspaper that the removal of products from the website was because the sudden change in tariffs meant orders could be delayed at customs and shoppers might find themselves having to pay unexpected fees. She said: 'It was really disappointing when we had to pull the products from the site. Our worst fear was that [the customer] would get hit by some crazy tariff bill, the product would get stuck in customs and she'd never want to shop with us again.' As mentioned, the story so far for Tala seems to have been one of endless progress since it was founded in 2019. It raised £5 million in a funding round last year to scale its American operations and opened a localised US website, set up a fulfilment network and invested in marketing to US consumers. Fowles also said she's 'remaining reasonably optimistic there'll be a resolution' but in the meantime is having to 'figure out what we can do to get back online'. Elsewhere, the growth story continues uninterrupted, especially in its domestic market. The company has just opened its first directly-operated retail store on London's Carnaby Street after a launch in Dubai Mall and physical retail link-ups with Anthropologie. Fowles said 'people love the experience of being inside a store and immersed in a brand,' but added that there are concerns around consumer confidence globally at the moment, 'especially in the UK and in the US. Customers are being more thoughtful around all of their purchasing decisions, especially ones that feel discretionary'. She added: 'Immersing our customers in the brand has always been a key element in the decision for us to transform from a leading e-commerce brand to a prominent player in the physical retail landscape. If we were going to open a store, it had to feel distinctly Tala, from the look and feel to the experience itself. Our flagship is more than just a shopping destination. It's a strategic extension of our brand and a way to engage with our community in a more meaningful, in-person way. Consumer shopping habits are constantly evolving, but our customers have made it clear that physical retail remains a powerful channel for connection.'
Fashion Network
18 hours ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
As Tala opens first UK store, tariffs bite and its US expansion is paused
Athleisure brand Tala's growth has seemed to be unstoppable in recent periods but its US expansion is having to take a back seat for now. In response to tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, its £5 million investment in growing the American market is now on ice. The Times reported that CEO Morgan Fowles and founder Grace Beverley have decided to remove most of its products from its US webstore due to 'obstacles to trading'. But should those obstacles continue, given the importance of the US market, it could be forced to shift its production from China and Vietnam, two countries at the sharp end of the tariffs imposition. Fowles told the newspaper that the removal of products from the website was because the sudden change in tariffs meant orders could be delayed at customs and shoppers might find themselves having to pay unexpected fees. She said: 'It was really disappointing when we had to pull the products from the site. Our worst fear was that [the customer] would get hit by some crazy tariff bill, the product would get stuck in customs and she'd never want to shop with us again.' As mentioned, the story so far for Tala seems to have been one of endless progress since it was founded in 2019. It raised £5 million in a funding round last year to scale its American operations and opened a localised US website, set up a fulfilment network and invested in marketing to US consumers. Fowles also said she's 'remaining reasonably optimistic there'll be a resolution' but in the meantime is having to 'figure out what we can do to get back online'. Elsewhere, the growth story continues uninterrupted, especially in its domestic market. The company has just opened its first directly-operated retail store on London's Carnaby Street after a launch in Dubai Mall and physical retail link-ups with Anthropologie. Fowles said 'people love the experience of being inside a store and immersed in a brand,' but added that there are concerns around consumer confidence globally at the moment, 'especially in the UK and in the US. Customers are being more thoughtful around all of their purchasing decisions, especially ones that feel discretionary'. She added: 'Immersing our customers in the brand has always been a key element in the decision for us to transform from a leading e-commerce brand to a prominent player in the physical retail landscape. If we were going to open a store, it had to feel distinctly Tala, from the look and feel to the experience itself. Our flagship is more than just a shopping destination. It's a strategic extension of our brand and a way to engage with our community in a more meaningful, in-person way. Consumer shopping habits are constantly evolving, but our customers have made it clear that physical retail remains a powerful channel for connection.'
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
The State Of Arab Luxury: The Major Players Behind The Brands
The world's richest Arabs? Saudi Arabia commands the lion's share. On the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump's four-day tour of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, comes fresh interest in Arab luxury—who has it, how it's evolving, and in which sectors it shines. First up, the numbers: as of 2024, the seven Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have a combined luxury market value north of $16.9 billion. The countries (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and Yemen) are a force in domestic and international luxury consumption. The area has a projected growth of nearly 9% through 2033, at which point, the estimated value will be $37 billion. The numbers are from the report, 'Arab Luxury 2025-2030,' published by Luxonomy, a media company and luxury sector resource. Not surprisingly, the United Arab Emirates holds the largest market share at nearly 50%. Dubai's global luxury brand presence reigns in the region, ranking second only to London's. Shopping destinations like Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates are home to the world's major luxury houses and include such attractions as aquariums, ice rinks, a ski resort and virtual reality attractions. Dubai's global luxury brand presence ranks only second to London's. Which countries harbor the richest Arabs? 'Saudi Arabia has the highest number of Arab billionaires, with 15 billionaires worth a total of $55.8 billion, followed by Lebanon with six billionaires worth a total of $12.3 billion, and the UAE and Egypt with five billionaires each, worth $24.3 billion and $20.6 billion, respectively,' according to Forbes' 'The World's Richest Arabs' list. Saudi Arabia's Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Alsaud tops the Forbes list with a net worth of $16.5 billion, and from the same country, Sulaiman Al Habib, who made his wealth in the medical field, ranks second at $10.9 billion. Luxonomy further breaks down the regional numbers: Saudi Arabia commands about 40% of the region's luxury market, certain to increase given the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. Launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016, the plan steers the Kingdom from reliance on oil to become a global leader in such sectors as technology, entertainment and tourism. President Donald Trump meets with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a 'coffee ceremony' at the Saudi Royal Court on May 13, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by) Luxonomy reports that wealthy Saudis, when on luxury sprees, spend 70% of their Saudi riyals abroad. That might change given Saudi Arabia's bold bet on premium retail infrastructure, says Wafa Kanan, founder and publisher of ALO Magazine, a Middle Eastern lifestyle magazine. 'The opening of new luxury shopping destinations in Riyadh could encourage wealthy Saudis to spend more of their money domestically,' she says. 'That would boost the local economy and create new opportunities for luxury businesses in the region.' Kanan points to Riyadh's mammoth Solitaire Mall, which opened in March 2025, billing itself as a 'multi-use lifestyle destination.' About 700,000 square feet of retail space lies beneath its angular stone exterior. The Avenues Riyadh mall is expected to open in early 2026, dwarfing the Solitaire with nearly four million square feet. When finished, five towers will rise in northern Riyadh, three reserved for hotels: the Waldorf Astoria, Canopy and and Conrad. The complex will be segmented into nine districts, each with a distinct style and ambiance. Wafa Kanan, publisher of the Middle Eastern lifestyle magazine ALO, says Saudi Arabia's new premium malls could lure wealthy Saudis away from international spending. About 10% of the regional luxury market is centered in Qatar, largely because of the country's stellar per capita income. Forbes pegs the country's real economic growth for 2024-25 at 2%, with a medium-term outlook of around 4.75%. Lebanese designers like Elie Saab have a large influence in the region. Fashion-conscious Kuwait holds a 7% share of the luxury market. 'Many Kuwaitis travel to Paris and Milan during fashion weeks to attend shows and buy exclusive pieces from their favorite designers,' says Kanan, who's also president of Los Angeles-based Unique Image, a brand marketing agency. 'The country's elite also frequently host elaborate fashion events. Guests show off their latest clothing purchases and network with others in the industry.' Kuwait broke through the market in 1983 when Chanel opened its flagship Middle Eastern store in Kuwait City. The Kuwaiti market is 'where most trends start first, before we start noticing them in the rest of the Middle East,' said Chalhoub Group's chief strategy officer Jasmina Banda in a Vogue Magazine interview. Oman and Bahrain comprise 3% and 2% of the GCC luxury market, respectively. In 2023, high-end fashion accounted for $5.2 billion in the GCC, a 10% increase over the previous year, reports Luxonomy. The firm forecasts a 6% growth in 2024. The fashion sector includes 'luxury prêt-à-porter, haute couture, designer leather goods and exclusive accessories,' according to Luxonomy. Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad poses with models after the Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Fall/Winter show, part of Haute Couture Paris Fashion Week. (Photo by Vittorio) 'The region's booming luxury industry was greatly influenced by Lebanese entrepreneurs and designers,' notes Kanan, adding that historically, Lebanon has been viewed as the cultural and intellectual hub of the Arab world. 'Lebanese nationals have long been known for their exquisite taste and eye for detail, making them a perfect fit for the world of luxury,' she says. Kanan names Lebanese designers Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad and Reem Acra, 'who became household names, dressing celebrities and royalty for red carpet events and weddings.' She says Lebanon's influence extends beyond fashion: 'Lebanese-owned businesses became synonymous with luxury and elegance. From opulent jewelry stores to lavish spa resorts.' Overall, Middle Eastern youth increasingly drive the luxury market. 'Over 60% of the population in countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is under the age of 35,' states the Luxonomy report: 'They are digital natives—global, aspirational, and highly aware of personal branding.' Kanan adds that younger consumers 'are more likely to be influenced by global fashion trends. 'They seek out luxury brands that offer innovative, edgy and daring designs,' she says. 'This is leading to a shift away from traditional luxury aesthetics towards more casual, streetwear-inspired styles.' That's especially evident with young Saudis who have carved out a fashion subculture by embracing streetwear. Women and digital connectivity are also drivers. Women have increased access to finances and public life in such countries as Saudi Arabia, notes Luxonomy. In terms of digital access, the report states that 'the region boasts some of the highest mobile penetration and social media usage rates in the world. This impacts how luxury is communicated, experienced, and personalized, reshaping customer journeys and brand loyalty.' Women are behind the region's strong shopping and gift-giving culture. (Photo credit should read YASSER AL-ZAYYAT/AFP via Getty Images) Women are behind the region's strong shopping and gift-giving culture, Kanan says: 'Luxury brands are often seen as desirable gifts that can help strengthen relationships and show appreciation.' The players behind luxury brands include such retail conglomerates as Majid Al Futtaim Fashion, Alshaya Group, Richemont, Al Tayer Group and Chalhoub, which commands more than 300 global brand franchises. International brands are increasingly devising strategies to attract the Middle Eastern market. That means going local. Dior launched its Ramadan capsule collection ("Dior Or") in 2019 and recently introduced a men's edition. Chanel's 'Première Funfair" Dubai event, held in 2023, was described as an 'amusement park-style pop-up' that showcased the brand's Première timepiece, created for women in 1987.
Time Out Dubai
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Time Out Dubai
Parking in Dubai: A guide to permits, paid parking and do's and don't's
Listen up, motorists. Whether you're a seasoned Dubai driver or this is your first time getting behind the wheel, we all need somewhere to stop. When it comes to parking in Dubai, the city isn't short of spaces and there are plenty of options on where to leave your car. However, what you might not know, is that there are different rules (and different prices) depending on which location you choose. From multi-story car parks to malls, this is everything you need to know about parking in Dubai. Parking in Dubai: Your go-to guide Paid parking in Dubai Public parking in Dubai is organised and managed by Parkin, a company which took over responsibility from the RTA in 2024. Looking after public and private spaces around the city, Parkin has since implemented a new tariff system for parking, which divides into four zones named A, B, C and (you guessed it), D. Coming into practice in April 2025, there is also a new peak time hours fee for specific spaces that are located near transport hubs, business districts and shopping areas. With the new tariffs, these premium parking spaces have risen to Dhs6 per hour. In contrast, regular parking spaces across the city have remained priced at Dhs4 per hour. If you want to understand exactly how much your stay will cost, you can find a full breakdown of the tariffs in each zone here. Some areas of the city are not covered with public parking fees, however, this can be subject to change. Most recently, Parkin introduced two new paid zones in Mirdif, operating between 8am and 10pm from Monday to Saturday. Parkin also operates six multi-storey car parks in Dubai, which provide 3,200 parking spaces. Tariffs at these multi-storey car parks are priced at Dhs5 per hour and be chargeable all around the clock every day of the year. Anyone who parks for more than eight hours in a multi-storey in any 24-hour period will be charged a maximum of Dhs40. Parking in Dubai: Permits If you're looking to obtain a parking permit in Dubai, you can do so through the RTA's website. As well as paying public parking fines, the online RTA portal allows you to apply for or renew a parking permit. There are a range of permits available, from permits for people of determination, to Emirati citizens and even for contracting or within a residential are in specific circumstances. You can learn more about different types of permits on the RTA website. Mall parking in Dubai If you're heading for a well deserved spot of retail therapy, you should note that there are different parking rules and fees depending on which mall you choose. Dubai Mall (Credit: Dubai Mall) The iconic mall recently changed from offering free parking and is now running a paid system in collaboration with Salik. If you like this: Here's what you must know about Salik tolls The toll gate company's technology is now being used to offer a barrier-free parking experience for shoppers, through the use of vehicle plate recognition. If you receive a charge, it will be linked with your digital Salik account. Parking is still free for the first four hours of Monday to Thursday, and for the first six hours between Friday and Sunday. But after four hours you will pay the following: Weekdays (Monday to Thursday) 4 – 5 hours: Dhs20 5 – 6 hours: Dhs60 6 – 7 hours: Dhs80 8 – 12 hours: Dhs100 12 – 24 hours: Dhs500 24 hours+: Dhs1,000 Weekends (Friday to Sunday) 6 – 7 hours: Dhs80 7 – 8 hours: Dhs100 8 – 12 hours: Dhs200 12 – 24 hours: Dhs500 24 hours+: Dhs1,000 There are currently a selection of car parks at Dubai Mall, including Fashion Parking, Cinema Parking and Zabeel Parking. However, Grand Parking is currently closed as part of the mall's ongoing expansion plans. Mall of the Emirates Mall of the Emirates (Credit: Mall of the Emirates) There are now no barriers at Mall of the Emirates car parks, meaning you can drive straight in and enjoy four hours free parking. If you stay over the allotted time, you will receive an SMS with the link to pay the fees through Parkin. You have three days to sort the payment, or you'll receive a fine. However, if you want to stay longer, you can validate all-day free parking if you spend Dhs150 in the mall and validate at a customer service desk (so keep a hold of those receipts). Weekend parking is also free, and the current weekday prices are as follows: 0 – 4 hours: Free 4 – 5 hours: Dhs20 5 – 6 hours: Dhs40 6 – 7 hours: Dhs60 7 – 8 hours: Dhs100 8 hours+: Dhs150 BurJuman Mall Also using a ticketless system, parking at BurJuman Mall is free for the first three hours. Following this time, you'll be charged Dhs20 for each additional hour or part of. However, there is completely free parking every Sunday and on public holidays. If you're using the VOX Cinema inside the mall, you can get an extra three hours of free parking, but remember to validate at the VOX ticket counter before you leave. City Centre Deira Parking is completely free on Sundays and public holidays at the Deira mall, but you will have to pay if you stay for a longer period during the week. Monday to Saturday: 0 – 3 hours: Free 3 – 4 hours: Dhs20 4 – 5 hours: Dhs40 5 – 6 hours: Dhs60 6 – 7 hours: Dhs100 7 hours+: Dhs150 24 hours: Dhs350 Lost ticket: Dhs150 Overnight parking (4am – 6am): Dhs200 City Centre Mirdif Parking is completely free at City Centre Mirdif. Parking fines in Dubai Parking fines in Dubai vary on the type of parking violation and the penalty begins from Dhs100. Currently, the RTA lists the following penalties, which you can pay up here. Non-payment of parking fees – Dhs150 Exceeding parking time – Dhs100 Exceeding maximum parking hours – Dhs100 Misuse of parking facility – Dhs200 Vehicle is crossing or blocking pavement – Dhs200 Using a forbidden parking – Dhs200 Parking a vehicle that does not have a plate number – Dhs1,000 Parking the vehicle in a reserved parking or not presenting a permit – Dhs1,000 Living in Dubai? Driving in Dubai? Here's what you must know about Salik tolls And how it can cost you Dubai Mall announces car park closure: The important update you need to know It's part of the mall's ongoing expansion plans Two new paid public parking zones announced in Dubai Does this change your next journey?
