Latest news with #Abra
Listly
12-07-2025
- Listly
How to **Experience Dubai Like a Local?** - An Insider's Guide to the Gulf City
Glittering skyscrapers, ultra-luxury shopping malls, and opulent resorts may define the typical holidaymaker's Dubai, but the desert metropolis has a deeper, more authentic side to it that is not often seen by many — one that is usually experienced only by the local city dwellers. So, for those looking to go beyond the beaten tourist track, the exotic Gulf city certainly won't disappoint. Here's your insider guide on how to experience Dubai like a local. Come, explore and discover! Start Your Day with a Traditional Emirati Breakfast Kick off your morning in true Emirati style by indulging yourself in a traditional Emirati breakfast. Steer clear of the gourmet buffet at your swanky resort and treat yourself to an assortment of mouth-watering local flavours. From sweet balaleet to satisfying khameer bread and classic chebab pancakes, the foodie in you is absolutely spoilt for choice. Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood Al Fahidi may not be the most offbeat destination for those looking to get off the beaten tourist track. But, given its important historical and cultural significance, the old-world neighbourhood is rather an unmissable stop for a truly authentic Dubai experience. Take a wander in the narrow alleyways, wind towers, and ornate art galleries, and let yourself lose in the abounding quaint charm. Ride the Abra Across Dubai Creek As the sun goes down and the azure blue skies slowly fade away, hop aboard one of Dubai's traditional wooden boats, an 'abra', and set sail across the atmospheric Dubai Creek. Once across, you are greeted by a whole host of 'souks', Dubai's traditional local markets, selling all things Emirati, from gold to textiles and spices galore. Skip the Malls, Visit Local Markets While Dubai's slew of ultra-modern malls may define the metropolis for the average traveller, for a truly authentic experience, visit the traditional local markets instead. Make your way to the likes of the popular Ripe Market or Farmers' Market on the Terrace, and treat yourself to a slice of Emirati-style retail therapy like never before. After a day of blissful shopping, retreat to one of the finest suites in Dubai, offered by a property such as Oaks Liwa Heights, and call it a day. Enjoy a Beach Day the Local Way The exotic Gulf city may not be known for its beaches, but it sure does have a fair share of sands that treat you to a wonderful beach day. Take your pick from the city's popular public beaches, such as Kite Beach and Sunset Beach, and enjoy a dose of sun, sand and sea the local way. Try Karak and Shawarma at a Street Cafeteria Your local Dubai experience wouldn't be complete without some karak chai (a strong, sweet spiced tea) and a shawarma wrap in your belly. Make your way to a low-key street cafeteria popular for these classic Emirati treats and grab a quick bite for a delicious local experience. Head to the Desert — Beyond the Tour Packages What is a trip to the Middle East without some desert experiences and adventures under the belt and glittering Dubai of the UAE is no different. Experience the sprawling sands of Dubai the local way, dune bashing, or camelback riding, going beyond what the typical tour packages offer. Experience a Local Mosque Visit Not all of Dubai's mosques may welcome non-Muslim tourists, but the striking Jumeirah Mosque, on Jumeirah Beach Road, has its doors open for those curious about Islam and the local religious culture. The mosque also offers tours with cultural explanations and Q&A sessions, which is also appreciated by locals as they reflect the UAE's values of tolerance and cultural openness.
Listly
12-07-2025
- Listly
How to Experience Dubai Like a Local? - An Insider's Guide to the Gulf City
Glittering skyscrapers, ultra-luxury shopping malls, and opulent resorts may define the typical holidaymaker's Dubai, but the desert metropolis has a deeper, more authentic side to it that is not often seen by many — one that is usually experienced only by the local city dwellers. So, for those looking to go beyond the beaten tourist track, the exotic Gulf city certainly won't disappoint. Here's your insider guide on how to experience Dubai like a local. Come, explore and discover! Start Your Day with a Traditional Emirati Breakfast Kick off your morning in true Emirati style by indulging yourself in a traditional Emirati breakfast. Steer clear of the gourmet buffet at your swanky resort and treat yourself to an assortment of mouth-watering local flavours. From sweet balaleet to satisfying khameer bread and classic chebab pancakes, the foodie in you is absolutely spoilt for choice. Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood Al Fahidi may not be the most offbeat destination for those looking to get off the beaten tourist track. But, given its important historical and cultural significance, the old-world neighbourhood is rather an unmissable stop for a truly authentic Dubai experience. Take a wander in the narrow alleyways, wind towers, and ornate art galleries, and let yourself lose in the abounding quaint charm. Ride the Abra Across Dubai Creek As the sun goes down and the azure blue skies slowly fade away, hop aboard one of Dubai's traditional wooden boats, an 'abra', and set sail across the atmospheric Dubai Creek. Once across, you are greeted by a whole host of 'souks', Dubai's traditional local markets, selling all things Emirati, from gold to textiles and spices galore. Skip the Malls, Visit Local Markets While Dubai's slew of ultra-modern malls may define the metropolis for the average traveller, for a truly authentic experience, visit the traditional local markets instead. Make your way to the likes of the popular Ripe Market or Farmers' Market on the Terrace, and treat yourself to a slice of Emirati-style retail therapy like never before. After a day of blissful shopping, retreat to one of the finest suites in Dubai, offered by a property such as Oaks Liwa Heights, and call it a day. Enjoy a Beach Day the Local Way The exotic Gulf city may not be known for its beaches, but it sure does have a fair share of sands that treat you to a wonderful beach day. Take your pick from the city's popular public beaches, such as Kite Beach and Sunset Beach, and enjoy a dose of sun, sand and sea the local way. Try Karak and Shawarma at a Street Cafeteria Your local Dubai experience wouldn't be complete without some karak chai (a strong, sweet spiced tea) and a shawarma wrap in your belly. Make your way to a low-key street cafeteria popular for these classic Emirati treats and grab a quick bite for a delicious local experience. Head to the Desert — Beyond the Tour Packages What is a trip to the Middle East without some desert experiences and adventures under the belt and glittering Dubai of the UAE is no different. Experience the sprawling sands of Dubai the local way, dune bashing, or camelback riding, going beyond what the typical tour packages offer. Experience a Local Mosque Visit Not all of Dubai's mosques may welcome non-Muslim tourists, but the striking Jumeirah Mosque, on Jumeirah Beach Road, has its doors open for those curious about Islam and the local religious culture. The mosque also offers tours with cultural explanations and Q&A sessions, which is also appreciated by locals as they reflect the UAE's values of tolerance and cultural openness.
Mid East Info
24-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
UAE Retail Sector Booms as Malls Evolve into Experiential Hubs - Middle East Business News and Information
UAE retail growth is driven by demand for immersive and experience-focused environments 2025 has seen an 88.5% increase of expats migrating to the UAE Fit-out experts like Abra are enabling this shift through adaptable and sustainable design solutions Dubai, UAE – June 24, 2025: Global consumer habits have shifted due to the convenience of online shopping. However, while many countries are seeing fewer populated shopping malls, the Middle East retail spaces are still driving excitement for consumers. This growth is reinforced by a recent report, which shows that the overall UAE retail industry is projected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% through 2028, supported by increasing demand for experiential retail that goes beyond product purchasing. Reflecting the change in consumer behavior and a new generation of shoppers who now seek integrated environments where dining, leisure, wellness, and social interaction come together under one roof. Mall experiences across the region have migrated from traditional brick & mortar retail to experiential offerings. As malls become more complex and multifaceted, the interiors of retail spaces now need to do much more than look attractive. They must create atmospheres that engage visitors emotionally, offer flexibility for changing retail concepts, and seamlessly incorporate technology for enhanced interaction. This has been integrated due to consumer preferences with nearly 71% of consumers incorporating digital features into their shopping experiences and nearly half (43%) of all consumers doing so to improve their in-store shopping experiences. As of 2025, the UAE has witnessed an 88.5% increase in the number of expats migrating, with a significant proportion being families seeking enhanced lifestyle experiences. The retail industry has pivoted towards creating immersive experiences, particularly within indoor environments; positioning malls as ideal destinations to deliver these enhanced consumer engagements. Beyond creating these attractions for the residents, the UAE has become a family holiday destination. In 2024, Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international visitors, a 9.15% increase from the previous year. While creating these hubs, the UAE wants to closely embody its vision for sustainable practices, aligning with national goals like the UAE's Net Zero 2050 initiative, which encourages developers and fit-out specialists to seek out eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions that don't compromise on quality or design. One shift towards sustainable living is offering everything from fitness studios and wellness clinics to co-working lounges and event programming in these small hubs. Newer communities are developing every so often, like Dubai Hills and Nad Al Sheba creating sustainable neighborhoods where residents can avoid traffic and enjoy the UAE's vision of integrated urban living, exemplified by the '15-minute city' concept, which aims to ensure that residents have easy access to all essential services within a short transformation plays a vital role by serving as multifunctional hubs that complement schools, hospitals, parks, and residential areas – supporting not only convenience but also the social fabric of these neighborhoods. Therefore, the demands placed on its design and fit-out have evolved significantly and especially where fit-out companies like Abra can make a meaningful difference. The UAE is adapting retail in the region to fit the new consumption habits, and luxury fit-out companies are supporting the creation of designs with digital integration and experiential elements while meeting the standards of performance and durability demanded by high-end brands. Abra's expertise includes creating interiors that balance modern luxury, ensuring that furniture and finishes respect both the brand identity and the cultural context of the UAE. Their work often involves collaborating with luxury brands and incorporating sustainable design elements that can evolve with retail trends and seasonal activations, allowing them to longlist and adapt to the nature of today's consumer experiences. In the evolving retail industry, success is more than a space, but rather how the concepts connect and adapt as the consumer preferences shift. About Abra: Abra is a regional leader in luxury retail fit outs. Launched in 1992, the UAE-based company specialises in the design, project management, and production of bespoke retail environments across local markets and travel retail sectors in the Middle East and Africa. Abra expanded into KSA in 2023 with a base in Riyadh to cater to the dynamic luxury retail fit-out segment. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and seamless service, Abra offers end-to-end solutions, including complete in-house production along with prototyping, installation, logistics, and after-sales support. Operating from a state-of-the-art 150,000 sq. ft. facility and a skilled workforce of over 350 professionals, Abra expertly handles a diverse range of materials – wood, acrylic, metal, glass, and paint- ensuring complete control over timelines, cost, and quality. Certified to ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and OHSAS 18001 (Occupational Health & Safety) standards, the company integrates sustainability and energy-efficient practices throughout its projects. With over three decades of experience, Abra, headquartered in Dubai, is renowned for delivering with precision and reliability. The company continues to redefine luxury retail spaces, while setting new industry benchmarks. For media inquiries please contact: Amjad Mkayed | Sarah Kanji | Srishti Soni Ruder Finn Atteline Phone: +971 50 235 1814 | +971 58 599 0089 | +971 50 647 3920 E-mail: Abra@
Zawya
24-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE retail sector booms as malls evolve into experiential hubs
2025 has seen an 88.5% increase of expats migrating to the UAE Fit-out experts like Abra are enabling this shift through adaptable and sustainable design solutions Dubai, UAE – Global consumer habits have shifted due to the convenience of online shopping. However, while many countries are seeing fewer populated shopping malls, the Middle East retail spaces are still driving excitement for consumers. [1] This growth is reinforced by a recent report, which shows that the overall UAE retail industry is projected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% through 2028, supported by increasing demand for experiential retail that goes beyond product purchasing. [2] Reflecting the change in consumer behavior and a new generation of shoppers who now seek integrated environments where dining, leisure, wellness, and social interaction come together under one roof. Mall experiences across the region have migrated from traditional brick & mortar retail to experiential offerings. As malls become more complex and multifaceted, the interiors of retail spaces now need to do much more than look attractive. They must create atmospheres that engage visitors emotionally, offer flexibility for changing retail concepts, and seamlessly incorporate technology for enhanced interaction. This has been integrated due to consumer preferences with nearly 71% of consumers incorporating digital features into their shopping experiences and nearly half (43%) of all consumers doing so to improve their in-store shopping experiences [3]. As of 2025, the UAE has witnessed an 88.5% [4] increase in the number of expats migrating, with a significant proportion being families seeking enhanced lifestyle experiences [5]. The retail industry has pivoted towards creating immersive experiences, particularly within indoor environments; positioning malls as ideal destinations to deliver these enhanced consumer engagements. Beyond creating these attractions for the residents, the UAE has become a family holiday destination. In 2024, Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international visitors, a 9.15% increase from the previous year [6]. While creating these hubs, the UAE wants to closely embody its vision for sustainable practices, aligning with national goals like the UAE's Net Zero 2050 initiative, which encourages developers and fit-out specialists to seek out eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions that don't compromise on quality or design [7] One shift towards sustainable living is offering everything from fitness studios and wellness clinics to co-working lounges and event programming in these small hubs. Newer communities are developing every so often, like Dubai Hills and Nad Al Sheba [8] creating sustainable neighborhoods where residents can avoid traffic and enjoy the UAE's vision of integrated urban living, exemplified by the '15-minute city' concept, which aims to ensure that residents have easy access to all essential services within a short distance [9].This transformation plays a vital role by serving as multifunctional hubs that complement schools, hospitals, parks, and residential areas – supporting not only convenience but also the social fabric of these neighborhoods. Therefore, the demands placed on its design and fit-out have evolved significantly and especially where fit-out companies like Abra can make a meaningful difference. The UAE is adapting retail in the region to fit the new consumption habits, and luxury fit-out companies are supporting the creation of designs with digital integration and experiential elements while meeting the standards of performance and durability demanded by high-end brands. Abra's expertise includes creating interiors that balance modern luxury, ensuring that furniture and finishes respect both the brand identity and the cultural context of the UAE. Their work often involves collaborating with luxury brands and incorporating sustainable design elements that can evolve with retail trends and seasonal activations, allowing them to longlist and adapt to the nature of today's consumer experiences. In the evolving retail industry, success is more than a space, but rather how the concepts connect and adapt as the consumer preferences shift. About Abra: Abra is a regional leader in luxury retail fit outs. Launched in 1992, the UAE-based company specialises in the design, project management, and production of bespoke retail environments across local markets and travel retail sectors in the Middle East and Africa. Abra expanded into KSA in 2023 with a base in Riyadh to cater to the dynamic luxury retail fit-out segment. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and seamless service, Abra offers end-to-end solutions, including complete in-house production along with prototyping, installation, logistics, and after-sales support. Operating from a state-of-the-art 150,000 sq. ft. facility and a skilled workforce of over 350 professionals, Abra expertly handles a diverse range of materials - wood, acrylic, metal, glass, and paint- ensuring complete control over timelines, cost, and quality. Certified to ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and OHSAS 18001 (Occupational Health & Safety) standards, the company integrates sustainability and energy-efficient practices throughout its projects. With over three decades of experience, Abra, headquartered in Dubai, is renowned for delivering with precision and reliability. The company continues to redefine luxury retail spaces, while setting new industry benchmarks. For media inquiries please contact: Amjad Mkayed | Sarah Kanji | Srishti Soni Ruder Finn Atteline E-mail: Abra@
Khaleej Times
24-06-2025
- Climate
- Khaleej Times
6.3-magnitude quake hits off southern Philippines, no tsunami warning
A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern Philippines on Tuesday, the United States Geological Survey said, with no tsunami alert issued. The shallow quake struck about 374 kilometres (232 miles) east of the island of Davao, according to USGS. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, which reported the quake at a magnitude of 6.4, said no tsunami alert had been triggered. Quakes are a near-daily occurrence in the Philippines, which is situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Most are too weak to be felt by humans, but strong and destructive ones come at random with no technology available to predict when and where they might strike. The country's last major quake was a magnitude 7 tremor in July 2022 that triggered landslides and ground fissures in the northern province of Abra, killing at least 11 people and injuring 609 others. Philippines
