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What's On
11 hours ago
- Business
- What's On
6 important steps for home buyers in Abu Dhabi, from What's On's readers
Jump on that bandwagon… 3 of 12 Look for available rental units on websites such as propertyfinder. ae, or A studio apartment could run you upwards of Dhs50,000 per year, while a 2-bedroom unit begins at about Dhs80,000. Obviously, this varies depending on which side of town you’re considering. Housing listings include agency and real estate agent information. Request a callback via Whatsapp and schedule a showing. When you’ve found the right apartment, you will need a credit check, proof of employment, ID, income statement, and other major documents to reserve your unit. Use your negotiation skills when liaising with the owner via your real estate agent. You will typically need to put down 5 per cent of the annual rental figure as your agent fee and another 5 per cent to confirm your interest. You can pay in quarterly, semiannual, and annual postdated cheques. In some parts, you could be lucky enough to find yourself a monthly payment deal. If you’re able to fork out a year’s payment upfront, however, you’ll usually get a few thousand Dirhams off the list price. When you’re ready to get power and water, you’ll need to get a connection in your name with TAQA (formerly ADDC). Charges include a Dhs1,000 deposit and chilled water deposit. For handyman services, speak with the property owner and property management company. Some properties have a tie-up with companies. When you’re registered, TAQA will set up your water and electricity accounts on Tawteeq. Finally, when you have it all taken care of, make sure you have a document called the Move-in Permit. Without this, the building staff won’t be legally allowed to let you move in with your furniture. Buying a property is a huge step in anyone's life. Whether you're looking to buy a home to live in or as an investment, here are 6 simple things for new home buyers to remember, as sent in by our readers. Obvious? Maybe. Helpful? Absolutely. > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
5 new restaurants in Dubai you'll want to try this June
Written by: Lana Du 1 hour ago Dubai's always got something new cooking, and June is no exception. This month, there's an exciting lineup of new restaurants in Dubai to explore. From classic Greek dining to innovative Cantonese cuisine, here are 5 new restaurants in Dubai to check out this June. Click through the gallery 3 of 12 The iconic London-born Cantonese restaurant makes its Middle East debut at The Lana Promenade. Opulent, Art Deco glamour meets 1930s Shanghai. Think mirrored ceilings, stained glass, intricate wallpaper, and a moody, elegant cocktail bar. Offering: A refined take on Cantonese cuisine by Chef Li Zhenjun. Signature dishes include Xiao Long Bao, Sir David's Hot & Sour Soup, Whole Lobster with E-Fu Noodles, and the famous Beijing Duck, roasted in a custom oven and carved tableside. New Dubai exclusives include Foie Gras Cherries, Da Hong Pao Lamb Cutlets, and Honey-Glazed Beef Char Siu. Timings: Opening daily 12pm to 11pm Location: The Lana Promenade, Dorchester Collection, Marasi Bay Marina Contact: (0)4 295 7464. @chinatang_dubai The newest name at Pier 7, Elaia brings a laid-back take on Mediterranean dining with a menu made for sharing. Expect dishes like crispy zucchini, melitzanosalata, grilled octopus, and salt-baked red snapper, plus wood-fired pizzas and a solid wine list. Inside, the space is low-lit, warm, and spacious, with Marina views if you're sitting outside. Offering: Mediterranean sharing plates, seafood, wood-fired pizzas, fresh breads and dips, curated wines. Timings: Daily, 12pm to 1am Location: Elaia, Pier 7, Dubai Marina Contact: (0) 4 576 2389 . @elaiadubai Just launched on the upper floor of Bla Bla Dubai in JBR, Replay is a new karaoke lounge built for Dubai's summer nightlife. With seven private themed rooms, a main lounge with a DJ booth, and over 80,000 songs across 20+ languages, it's made for post-brunch hangouts, group celebrations, and special nights out. The menu features salmon tacos, dynamite shrimp, truffle pizza, and more. Offering: Private karaoke sessions are priced at Dhs45/hour (2+ hours) or Dhs55/hour (1-hour bookings). Timings: Open daily from 5pm to 3am Location: Replay, Bla Bla Dubai, JBR Contact: (0)4 584 4111. @replaydubai This June, Dubai gets two new spots that take dining and nightlife up a notch. Geisha is a Pan-Asian lounge with a live sushi bar and crafted cocktails. After 11PM, the vibe turns up with live bands and DJs. Just steps away inside the restaurant, Opal Room is a hidden speakeasy offering a low-key, intimate escape as the night unfolds. Opening June Location: 16th floor of Emirates Financial Towers in DIFC Culinara Social Dining is one of the newest arrivals on Dubai's culinary map. Set 100 metres above the city in The Link at One Zaabeel, this sky-high food hall brings together 12 of the region's most exciting chefs, homegrown concepts, and indie favourites, all under one roof, in a buzzing, beautifully designed spot. Timings: Open daily from 12pm to 11pm, Coffee and breakfast available daily from, 7am to 11pm. Location: The Link, One Zaabeel, 24th Floor. Contact: Images: Supplied/ Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
11 homegrown jewellery brands to shop from to deck yourself out
Bling bling baby… For many, jewellery isn't just a piece of metal or an adornment – it's a way to express oneself, create a distinct identity and sense of style. As part of fashion, it your personality on display, a unique marker of who you are. A ccessorising can jazz up any boring, bland, beige outfit – if you're looking to expand your collection of bling, here are some amazing homegrown labels to shop from. Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery Founded by Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum, Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery is for the real lovers of luxury. Collections aimed at empowering women with stunning creations, they're inspired by her grandmother, a woman with remarkable strength, an entrepreneur and a visionary. The collection is made with white, rose and yellow gold, with ethically sourced diamonds and gems. @sanaalmaktoumofficial Lana Al Kamal Jewelry Founded in 2017, this female-owned-and-run jewellery brand draws from art, culture and architecture. The eponymous label stocks a variety of options, from modern takes on a traditional fine jewellery motif to chic everyday designs. They are made in 18-karat gold, diamonds and bold gemstones. @lanaalkamaljewelry Oria At Oria, you can find beautiful, affordable and entirely homegrown jewellery pieces, handcrafted by Middle Eastern artisans – each piece is one-of-a-kind and i t's almost impossible to go wrong choosing from their range of layerable, sophisticated wearable art. They have a variety of options, from dainty and fine to colourful with gems. @ Bymystique It's all about the celestial realm – Bymystique's jewellery is handcrafted in the UAE and draws inspiration from the sun, the moon, the stars and all that be in the celestial realm. The brand uses 18-karat recycled gold, and adorns the designs with glittering pavé diamonds, mother of pearl and miniature coloured gems. @bymystiqueofficial Enso Design Lab Based in Dubai, Enso Design Lab taps into that minimalist trend, with the brand's designs focusing on sustainability, craftsmanship, simplicity, functionality, and high-quality materials. They really pull together that chic-abstract-clean-girl aesthetic and if you're looking for long wear and use, this is it for you. Explore their collection of women's and men's jewellery pieces as well as sunglasses, haircombs, and more. @ Gafla Created by Hamad Bin Shaiban and Abdulla Beljafla, this is a brand deeply infused with Emirati heritage and beauty. The brand reinvents the traditional stories and symbols of Arabic culture and brings it to life in a contemporary, fine jewellery look. They have numerous collections to choose from – take your pick. @gafla Helya Jewelry A female-run home-grown brand in Dubai, this jewellery outlet is the answer to all your accessories worries. Helya is founded by two Emirati sisters who combined their passion for Emirati culture, architecture and design. Their simple and beautiful designs encapsulate the native flora and heritage of the Middle Eastern. Order online at @helya.a Donna Hourani This is something a little outside the box – Donna Hourani is all about gemstones, and offers designs that bring out the best of their beauty. The pieces are bold and bright, with asymmetric silhouettes, and wavy and molten settings, with bright stones taking centre stage – designed to be family heirlooms for life. @donnahouranijewelry The PiercingSpot Inspired by the lack of stylish jewellery on the market, founder Aya took matters into her own hands by creating the PiercingSpot. This is an independent female piercer offering gorgeous jewellery, and safe and amazing piercing procedures for all women. She has a shop and piercing parlour in Health Care city where you can visit for all your piercing needs. The Piercing Spot, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, Mon to Sat 10am to 7pm, Sun closed, Tel: (0)4 878 1697, Toktam Jewelry Pieces by Toktam Jewelry tell a story – the collections follow themes and blends of the founder's Persian heritage with Arabic influences. Bold, eclectic and colourful designs are the marker of Toktam, and pieces are unmissable. If you're big on strong self expression, these are the pieces for you. @ Diamind Diamind is bringing the lab-grown diamond market and pioneering sustainability in the region, while still creating beautiful, timeless designs that can be worn for life. The idea behind lab-grown diamonds is the ethical question, taking into account the long and bloody history of mined diamonds in some of the biggest reserves in the world. @diamindofficial Images: Socials
What's On
18 hours ago
- What's On
9 useful tips for new Abu Dhabi residents, from What's On's readers
Welcome to our wonderful city… 3 of 12 In Abu Dhabi, a 100km/h speed limit means you can drive at a maximum of 100km/h (Not 120km/h). Learn the parking laws and system Even if you have a driving license from your home country, you will eventually (and usually very soon after arrival) need a UAE driver's license to legally operate a vehicle here in Dubai. Some nationalities will be able to do a straight transfer (this includes most of Europe, the US and Canada, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Turkey and a few more nations, check with the RTA or a full list). You'll need an Emirates ID and an RTA eye test but the whole process is relatively straightforward. People holding licenses from other countries will have to pass a driving test before obtaining a UAE license, though there's now a way to avoid the previously compulsory lessons via the Golden Chance scheme. Get yourself a ClassPass. It’s great to discover fitness classes and sessions. Also, join relevant communities on WhatsApp and Facebook â€' there are plenty. Hit your travel goals because there are amazing deals on offer, and the UAE's location is ideal for travellers Put yourself out there so you can find like-minded people. Abu Dhabi is a great city but can get lonely if you don't make the effort. Go out and explore the city. Every corner of the city has something to see and do, all usually within 20 minutes of each other Respect the law and follow the rules - both are simple and easy to do in Abu Dhabi so you can live peacefully. Pay yourself first, before you spend it all on the amazing restaurants and entertainment Reliable sources tell us Abu Dhabi's population hit 3.79 million last year (2024), an incredible 83 per cent rise compared to numbers recorded in 2011. And we don't expect that trend to end anytime soon, so here are 9 useful tips for new Abu Dhabi residents, from our own readers. Images: What's On archive, unsplash, Shutterstock > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
The best Eid Al Adha staycation deals in the UAE
Use this time to have a little Eid Al Adha staycay… With Eid Al Adha just around the corner, there's no better time to plan a well-deserved break. Whether you're craving mountain views, beachside bliss, or a stylish city escape, we've rounded up 10 of the best staycation deals across the UAE. From family-friendly resorts to luxe getaways with brunches, spa discounts, and more—these limited-time offers are your ticket to a memorable Eid. JA Hatta Fort Looking for a unique Eid escape? JA Hatta Fort Hotel offers up to 30 per cent off stays with kids under 6 staying free, just 90 minutes from Dubai. Enjoy 20 per cent off à la carte dining at Jeema and Gazebo, plus on resort activities like spa treatments and padel tennis. You also get 20 per cent off top Hatta attractions like Hatta Outdoor and the Honey Bee Farm. Don't miss the Eid brunch on June 7 & 8, featuring local favourites like Lamb Ouzi and a Date Tasting Bar. Brunch is Dhs145 for adults and Dhs75 for kids aged 7 to 12. Early check-in and late check-out included (subject to availability). T and C's apply. JA Hatta Fort Hotel, Hatta, valid June 6 to 9, 2025. @jahattaforthotel Park Hyatt Dubai Craving a serene Eid escape? Park Hyatt Dubai is celebrating 20 years of refined elegance with its 'Two Decades of Timeless Luxury – The Ultimate Escape ' offer. Enjoy daily breakfast at Brasserie du Park, 20 per cent off dining at select venues, two signature cocktails at NOÉPE, plus a complimentary room upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out. With creekside views, award-winning pools, and access to padel, tennis, and golf, this staycation is all about stylish serenity. Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Creek Resort, valid until September 30, 2025. @parkhyattdubai Hyde Dubai Looking for a city escape with a side of rooftop magic? Hyde Dubai is turning up the charm this Eid Al Adha with a staycation deal that's hard to resist. Expect bold design, laid-back luxury, and serious skyline views. Guests can enjoy 20% per cent off stays during Eid and all summer long, plus enjoy a complimentary drink every night by the pool; yep, with front-row seats to the glittering Burj Khalifa. Sunset sips never looked so good. Hyde Dubai, Business Bay, valid till September 30 2025, hydeservice@ @hydedubai Looking to turn up the heat this Eid? FIVE Palm Jumeirah is serving signature flair with a glam staycation that brings together beach bliss, world-class dining, and next-level nightlife. From poolside vibes at Playa Pacha to indulgent dinners at Ronin, weekend brunches, and serene spa rituals, it's the ultimate Eid escape. FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, valid throughout June 2025, starting from Dhs850. @fiveluxejbr Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah Head to the Palm and enjoy a staycation that's full of relaxation and you can switch off fully from daily life. The Travel Pulse deal offers you up to 40 per cent off the flexible daily rate and a buffet breakfast each day at Brunello Restaurant. Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, valid from June 1, 2025. @kempinskipalm Media One Hotel Looking for an early bird Eid escape that ticks all the boxes? Media One Hotel is serving up style, comfort, and unbeatable value with stays from just Dhs225 per night, including breakfast. Whether you're lounging at Coco Lounge, dining at QWERTY or Ciao Bella, or catching up with friends at garden on 8, this Media City gem puts you right where the action is—beach, shopping, nightlife and all. Media One Hotel, Media City, valid from June 6 to 10, 2025, starting from Dhs225. hello@ +971 4 427 1000 @mediaonehoteldubai Tryp By Wyndham Planning a family-friendly Eid escape? TRYP by Wyndham Dubai has you covered with a 36-hour staycation that's all about making memories. Enjoy a 6am check-in and 6pm check-out, plus plenty of perks, think up to 45 per cent off advanced bookings, free stays and meals for kids under 5, 20 per cent off food and drinks, and Dhs100 off a 60-minute spa treatment. Stay longer, unwind deeper, and make the most of every moment. TRYP by Wyndham Dubai, Barsha Heights, valid from May 1 to September 30, 2025. @trypwyndhamdxb LEVA Hotel Need a city escape with a side of skyline serenity this Eid Al Adha? LEVA Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road is bringing the chill this Eid with rooftop swims, uninterrupted Burj Khalifa views, and spacious suites that feel like home—only better. Book directly on with promo code GSTLV and enjoy 30 per cent off the best available rates. It's the perfect excuse to relax, recharge, and celebrate in style. LEVA Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, valid from May 30 to June 6, 2025. @leva_hotels W Dubai – The Palm Dreaming of a city meets beach retreat this Eid? W Dubai The Palm is dialing up the indulgence with daily breakfast, Dhs100 dining credit per night, and a guaranteed upgrade from a Wonderful to a Fabulous Room. Book your stay between June 1 and 10 using promo code 11P and enjoy bold luxury, epic vibes, and all the right reasons to escape to the Palm. Looking for a luxe city escape this Eid? Raffles Dubai is serving timeless elegance and warm Arabian hospitality with 30 per cent off Raffles Signature Rooms and suites from June 5 to 8. Guests can enjoy daily breakfast for two at Azur and 25 per cent off select dining venues. Book by June 4 and step into a world of refined comfort right in the heart of the city. Raffles Dubai, Oud Metha, valid from June 5 to 8, 2025. Book by June 4. @rafflesdubai Also Read: Emirates, Etihad and more offering major discounts for Eid Al Adha weekend Images: Provided
