6 cool things to do in the UAE this weekend: Ladies' nights, snow-cations, zipline thrills and more
Summer thrill combo
Soar through the skies and sink your teeth into a juicy reward. This summer, every XLine Dubai booking comes with a Five Guys meal voucher — valid for a burger, hot dog, or sandwich plus a drink. From June to August, enjoy the world's longest urban zipline as you fly 'superman-style' over Dubai Marina at 80 km/h, then refuel at any Five Guys outlet across the UAE.
Kick off the weekend in style every Thursday at Luxuria's PINK CODE night — a glamorous affair of karaoke, elegance, and free-flowing bubbly. From 9pm to 11pm, ladies can sip on complimentary grape and sparkling beverages while competing in the Best Song Performance contest. Dress to impress and bring your crew for a night of Russian-inspired flair and fun.
Winter in summer
Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind summer snow-cation at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. Escape the heat with a stay in the luxurious Aspen Ski Chalets, offering cosy alpine vibes, faux fur throws, a crackling fireplace, and stunning views of Ski Dubai. It's the perfect blend of mountain charm and city convenience — right in the heart of Dubai.
Head to Ras Al Khaimah
Check out Rixos Al Mairid's X Lounge, the UAE's largest Rixos entertainment hub in Ras Al Khaimah. Spanning 2,400 sqm with space for 500 guests, the venue will blend live music, immersive shows, and premium hospitality in a sleek, modern setting. Expect beachy daytime vibes and high-energy nights, with themed events, international acts, and a sensory-rich atmosphere. X Lounge is set to redefine nightlife and entertainment in the northern emirate.
Try the Croissant Pizza
Papa Johns has introduced its latest creation — the Croissant Pizza, now available across the UAE. Combining the flaky, buttery texture of a croissant with bold pizza flavours, this limited-time offering features a light, layered crust and customisable toppings. As part of the global launch, Papa Johns has also teamed up with designer KidSuper to release a limited-edition hot bag inspired by the pizza's craftsmanship. Available for a limited time.
Saturday Brunch
Experience a chic French-inspired afternoon at the Bisou Bisou Brunch at Tête-à-Tête, FIVE LUXE, JBR. Every Saturday from 1pm to 4:30pm, indulge in a three-course menu filled with South of France flavours, complemented by free-flowing drinks and vibrant live entertainment including vocals, piano, and dancers. Packages start at Dh350, with an optional after-party at Paradiso Dubai offering three drinks and three tapas for Dh250, or just three drinks for Dh150.
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The National
19 minutes ago
- The National
Overcoming fear of flying: How hypnosis, CBT, talk therapy and breathing techniques work
Living in the UAE is synonymous with taking a lot of flights. Whether travelling to visit friends and family or jetting off to foreign climes for a holiday, figures from a 2021 World Bank study placed the UAE 16th out of 177 countries for the number of passengers transported by airlines registered in the respective country. While planning trips and travelling abroad has many benefits, for those who suffer from a fear of flying, the idea of jetting off is not joyful, but filled with anxiety and stress and can even trigger panic attacks. 'The fear of flying is known as aviophobia or aerophobia,' says Christi Gadd, psychologist at Thrive Wellbeing Centre. 'In clinical terms, aviophobia falls under the diagnosis of a 'specific phobia'. For some, fear of flying is a discrete, situational phobia without broader psychological complications. This may involve fear of turbulence, crashing, or losing control during a flight, and may be triggered by a past traumatic experience while flying, vicarious learning such as hearing about an aviation disaster, or classical conditioning related to safety and danger.' For those suffering from aviophobia, there are various options available that can help alleviate stress around flying – from medical intervention to hypnotherapy and breathwork. Cognitive behavioural therapy and medication Depending on the severity of the symptoms, doctors may prescribe medication to tackle anxiety. Experts suggest looking at the underlying causes of the fear with a cognitive approach first. 'I've encountered numerous patients with a heightened fear of flying,' says Dr Munaz Ahamed, general practitioner at Aster Clinic, Tecom. 'From a medical perspective, addressing a fear of flying can be approached through a combination of psychological and behavioural strategies. Cognitive behavioural therapy is often highly effective in helping individuals to understand and change the thought patterns contributing to fear. Exposure therapy, a component of CBT, can gradually desensitise individuals to flying by gently exposing the individuals to flight-related situations.' Managing short-term stress around flying may necessitate anti-anxiety medicine. Melatonin is another popular option as it is a natural hormone that regulates sleep and may work to lessen stressful feelings. 'Anti-anxiety medications like controlled medicines are highly effective for flight anxiety and advised for situational use before flying,' says Dr Salman Kareem, specialist psychiatrist, Aster Royal Clinic, Downtown & Aster Clinic, JLT. 'The medication, however, depends on individual factors including medical history, severity of symptoms and frequency of travel and can be prescribed by a physician after consulting them.' Hypnotherapy and emotional freedom technique Hypnotherapy works by identifying the root causes of the fear before subconsciously rewiring the brain to promote calmer thinking around flying. 'The hypnotic space is a deep meditative state that a therapist guides you into using their voice and your breathing,' says Pavan Nihalani, hypnotherapist at Illuminations Wellbeing Centre. 'You are conscious and fully in control while gaining access to the subconscious mind.' Explaining how the technique can be used to tackle phobias, he explains: 'Fear is based in something that happened in the past. With hypnotherapy, we can go back to the memory and desensitise the reaction to it by removing the emotional charge, allowing you to view the experience more dispassionately.' Hypnotherapy sessions begin with discussions around the fear, including what the patient thinks may be causing it. 'Many times, people don't remember the specific incident or perhaps there isn't one,' says Nihalani. 'This is why we go into the subconscious mind, because it remembers everything.' Fear of flying can result from a past traumatic event or even having watched a TV show or film, listened to a podcast or read a book or article about an airplane disaster, which the patient internalises, turning it into a memory. 'Combining hypnotherapy with emotional freedom technique and breathwork is one of the most effective ways to tackle fear of flying,' says Nihalani. 'EFT is the process of rubbing or tapping meridian points on the body while focusing on the fear to release it from the body. Each time you do it, the intensity is reduced.' Talk and exposure therapy Speaking to a therapis t about your fears is a beneficial way to discover if aviophobia is masking something deeper, as well as providing emotional tools to practice mindfulness by yourself. 'The first step is to explore whether we are working with a specific phobia or a fear that is linked to more generalised emotional processes,' says Gadd. 'Once this is clarified, the therapeutic process typically includes talk therapy to explore the client's subjective experience and meaning-making around the fear." This is then combined with exposure therapy, "which involves using gradual exposure to the feared situation, such as imagery, virtual simulations, or eventual flights, tailored to the individual's readiness and tolerance. This exploration of underlying processes identifies broader fears or relational dynamics, particularly if the fear is symbolic or trauma-linked.' Fear of flying may be linked to other issues, such as being afraid of losing control, claustrophobia and fear of death or panic. As with hypnotherapy, patients are taught coping mechanisms to use outside of therapy sessions to manage their fears around flying. 'Several practical and evidence-based strategies can help clients manage their fear,' says Gadd. 'Mindfulness-based interventions, such as grounding techniques and breath control, focus on building distress tolerance and are particularly effective for managing anticipatory anxiety and panic during the flight. Some airlines also offer flight anxiety programmes, which combine psychological support with educational content and gradual exposure, often including accompanied flights.' Breathwork Focusing on and controlling breathing has become a popular and effective way to manage fears. 'Breathing is a subconscious action that the nervous system manages without you realising,' says Elisabeth Bohler, a breathwork educator and coach. 'When you move to consciously become in charge of the way you breathe, you can alter your state of breath to achieve a specific outcome such as to relax, calm down, self-soothe and meditate.' As the nervous system cannot differentiate between an actual threat and a self-created threat, stress and anxiety around flying creates negative emotions and trauma in the brain that the nervous systems reacts to by triggering fight or flight mode. This leads to increased heart rate and difficulty breathing and can result in panic attacks. 'Breath is an excellent indicator of our nervous system and is the only tool that can reach between the nervous system and body, acting as a reset button within minutes,' says Bohler. Patients are taught functional breathing techniques, which can help slow the heart rate and reduce stress. As an effective exercise, Bohler suggests inhaling, then pinching your nose and holding your breath for five seconds before exhaling, repeating this for three to five minutes if you feel panicked on or before a flight. 'It has the same effect as breathing into a paper bag, which is to re-elevate your carbon dioxide levels,' she says. 'Focusing on breathing pulls you back from overthinking and forces you into the present.'
UAE Moments
9 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Top Tourist Attractions in Abu Dhabi for 2025
Top Spots to Visit in Abu Dhabi in 2025 Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, offers a mesmerizing blend of culture, luxury, and natural beauty. Known for its architectural marvels, vibrant traditions, and unparalleled hospitality, it continues to captivate travelers worldwide. As the year 2025 approaches, tourism in Abu Dhabi is expected to reach new heights, with the city presenting an array of attractions for visitors to explore. From iconic landmarks to serene natural landscapes, this guide covers the best spots to visit in Abu Dhabi. 1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Symbol of Magnificence The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque remains one of Abu Dhabi's most visited attractions. As the largest mosque in the UAE, it showcases stunning Islamic architecture combined with materials sourced from across the globe, such as Italian marble and Swarovski crystals. Historical and Architectural Splendor Built to honor Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, the construction of the mosque spread across 12 years. Covering over 30 acres, its remarkable design can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. The mosque features 82 domes, multiple reflective pools, and the third-largest chandelier in the world. Visitor Experience and Insights Visitors are encouraged to book tours to explore its rich history and intricate design. The mosque's reflection during sunset provides an excellent opportunity for photographers. Studies reveal that the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque attracts millions of tourists annually, contributing substantially to UAE's economy. 2. Louvre Abu Dhabi: Where Art Meets Culture Showcasing masterpieces that bridge global cultures, the Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to be a must-visit destination. Dubbed the "universal museum," it offers a modern perspective on the relationship between art and history. The Inspiration Behind the Museum Opened in 2017, the Louvre Abu Dhabi represents the cultural collaboration between France and UAE. The geometric dome is designed to mimic sunlight filtering through palm leaves, providing visitors with an ethereal experience. Exhibits and Global Significance Housing thousands of artifacts, from prehistoric tools to contemporary artwork, the museum attracts art enthusiasts from across the globe. Seasonal exhibits often spotlight various themes, drawing scholars and tourists who appreciate its unique narrative approach. 3. Yas Island: A Hub for Entertainment Yas Island remains synonymous with thrill in Abu Dhabi. Featuring world-class attractions, this spot provides family-friendly fun and leisure experiences for all visitors. Thrilling Attractions The island houses Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros World. Ferrari World is particularly famous for its Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster globally. Yas Waterworld boasts over 40 rides and slides, offering countless hours of water-based excitement. Sports and Events Abu Dhabi's Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place at the Yas Marina Circuit, attracting international motorsport enthusiasts. Statistics show an overall 15% increase in tourist turnout during F1 seasons, largely benefiting the hospitality sector. 4. Saadiyat Island: A Gateway to Luxury Known for its pristine beaches and cultural institutions, Saadiyat Island is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and sophistication. Its sustainable tourism model makes it an attractive choice for eco-conscious visitors. Beachfront Elegance If luxury and relaxation define your travel plans, the Saadiyat Public Beach offers untouched sands and crystal-clear waters. Turtle conservation programs highlight the island's commitment to preserving marine life. Cultural Enrichment With establishments like Manarat Al Saadiyat and art initiatives, Saadiyat Island encourages cultural exchange. Various studies indicate an increasing number of tourists in the region due to such initiatives. 5. Qasr Al Watan: A Glimpse into Emirati Heritage Qasr Al Watan, also known as the Palace of the Nation, serves as a monumental tribute to the UAE's governance and heritage. It offers a unique perspective into the UAE's journey as a nation. A Remarkable Architectural Gem The palace's design is inspired by Arabian craftsmanship, featuring intricate mosaics, gold accents, and chandeliers. Its library hosts over 50,000 books, covering topics such as Arabic culture and scientific advancements. Knowledge Enrichment Interactive sections educate visitors about the UAE's political legacy and international relations. The Light and Sound Show, held daily, ensures an immersive learning experience, widely appreciated by historians. 6. Abu Dhabi Corniche: A Waterfront Paradise Stretching across eight kilometers, the Abu Dhabi Corniche offers breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf. It is ideal for leisure activities and serves as a popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts. Activities and Amenities The Corniche provides access to bike lanes, wide paths, and designated swimming zones, making it a versatile retreat for locals and tourists alike. Over 1 million visitors per year are reported to engage in cycling and fitness activities along this area. Restaurants and Coastal Dining Nearby restaurants offer diverse cuisines, ensuring memorable dining experiences. Many culinary establishments highlight local Emirati flavors, along with international offerings. 7. Emirates Palace: A Pinnacle of Luxury Standing as one of Abu Dhabi's most opulent hotels, Emirates Palace is more than just accommodation—it's an experience. Known for its lavish interiors and luxurious services, this palace attracts the elite of global tourism. Rising Above the Ordinary From private beaches to gold-topped cappuccinos, Emirates Palace offers a range of unparalleled services. Hosting royal events and international conferences, it symbolizes sophistication. Economic and Tourism Impact Reports show that Emirates Palace contributes significantly to Abu Dhabi's economy, drawing wealthy travelers and promoting high-end tourism. Its iconic dome and lush gardens often feature in promotional campaigns. 8. Al Ain Oasis: A Natural Retreat Located near Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Oasis provides a serene escape from the bustling city life. It embodies the UAE's historical reliance on freshwater springs for agriculture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site Totaling over 3,000 acres, the oasis emphasizes sustainability with its ancient aflaj irrigation system. The location is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its cultural relevance. Visitor Attractions Visitors can enjoy guided tours that discuss the historical significance of oases in Arabian civilizations. Educational programs on farming techniques further enrich the experience. 9. Jubail Mangrove Park: Nature's Respite An ecological treasure, Jubail Mangrove Park is perfect for exploring Abu Dhabi's environmental priorities. The park represents the city's efforts to balance urban development with nature conservation. Flora and Fauna Home to multiple species of birds, fish, and crustaceans, Jubail Mangrove Park encourages biodiversity. Visitors can take kayaks or eco-friendly tours to appreciate its beauty. Environmental Impact Statistics reveal that mangroves significantly improve air quality and reduce pollution levels in Abu Dhabi. Conservation programs encourage both locals and tourists to participate in sustaining the ecosystem. 10. Desert Safari: An Adventure to Remember Abu Dhabi's desert safari tours remain a favorite among adrenaline seekers. Exploring the golden sands in SUVs or riding camels makes for an unforgettable experience. Traditional and Modern Activities Besides dune bashing, safaris often feature falconry shows and authentic Bedouin dinners. Travelers frequently praise the immersive experience, wishing to revisit the serenity of the Arabian desert. Economic Contributions Studies indicate that desert safaris contribute significantly to UAE's tourism sector, holding the promise of employment for thousands. Local communities benefit largely through craft sales and cultural initiatives. Additional Tips for Travelers Choose the best time to visit Abu Dhabi—November through March—for cooler weather. Respect local customs while dressing conservatively at cultural sites. Explore options for public transportation or rideshares for efficient travel. Abu Dhabi continues to emerge as one of the world's most desirable tourist destinations. Packed with culture, adventure, and luxury, its attractions cater to diverse interests, promising unforgettable moments for travelers. As the city prepares for 2025, its commitment to innovation and sustainable tourism assures visitors of new experiences, blending tradition with modernity. FAQ What is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque known for? The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is known for its stunning Islamic architecture, Italian marble, and Swarovski crystal accents. It is the largest mosque in the UAE and can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. What makes the Louvre Abu Dhabi unique? The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a 'universal museum' that bridges global cultures through art and history. Its design, including the geometric dome that mimics sunlight filtering through palm leaves, provides a unique and ethereal visitor experience. What are the major attractions on Yas Island? Yas Island features world-class attractions such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World, and the Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix. Why is Saadiyat Island popular among travelers? Saadiyat Island is known for its pristine beaches, luxury offerings, cultural institutions, and a sustainable tourism model. It is ideal for those seeking relaxation and cultural enrichment. What can visitors experience at Qasr Al Watan? Visitors to Qasr Al Watan, or the Palace of the Nation, can explore intricate Arabian craftsmanship, learn about the UAE's political legacy, and enjoy interactive sections and the daily Light and Sound Show. What makes the Abu Dhabi Corniche a popular attraction? The Abu Dhabi Corniche stretches along eight kilometers of the Persian Gulf, offering fitness paths, bike lanes, swimming zones, and coastal dining. It is a favorite spot for families and fitness enthusiasts. Why is Emirates Palace considered a must-visit destination? Emirates Palace is renowned for its opulent interiors, private beaches, luxury services, and unique offerings like gold-topped cappuccinos. It symbolizes sophistication and is a hub for high-end tourism. What is special about Al Ain Oasis? Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans over 3,000 acres. It showcases sustainable agriculture with its ancient aflaj irrigation system and offers educational tours on the historical importance of oases. What can visitors do at Jubail Mangrove Park? At Jubail Mangrove Park, visitors can explore ecological treasures through kayaking and eco-tours. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna and emphasizes nature conservation efforts in Abu Dhabi.
Khaleej Times
12 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Visa waiver for some Pakistani passport holders comes into effect at all airports
The UAE and Pakistan have activated a visa waiver for diplomatic and official passport holders, said Ishaq Dar, deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Pakistan. In a statement on social media platform X, Dar said he met Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs earlier this week, where he was informed that the visa waiver has come into effect from July 25, 2025. The two countries signed a visa exemption agreement for diplomatic and official passports in the last week of July during the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) in Abu Dhabi. "In my meeting at Abu Dhabi on June 24, 2025, with my brother Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of UAE, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we agreed mutual visa waivers on diplomatic and official passports between our two brotherly countries and we both signed a Memorandum of Understanding to make this arrangement effective and operative after 30 days of the signing of the said MoU. "I am pleased to confirm that I have been informed by the UAE authorities that the visa waiver for diplomatic and official Pakistani passports entering the UAE has been activated, effective July 25, 2025, at all UAE airports,' Dar said. On the reciprocal basis, he added that similar arrangements have also been activated for UAE nationals at all Pakistani airports. The UAE and Pakistan have close diplomatic, cultural and trade ties. There are over 1.7 million Pakistanis living and working in the UAE. In addition, hundreds of thousands of tourists from Pakistan visit the Gulf country every year. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has visited the UAE numerous times ever since he took office. Importantly, this waiver is only for diplomatic and official passport holders and it is not applicable for ordinary passports.
