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Time Out Abu Dhabi
8 hours ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi to Salalah: The complete guide on travel, visas and what to do
If you're planning a getaway this summer and misty mountains and green hills sound increasingly appealing, you're probably considering heading from Abu Dhabi to Salalah. The southern Omani city gets a lot of attention this time of year and for good reason — between June and September, it turns into one of the few places in the region that actually cools down. This isn't your average beach trip though and it's not exactly straightforward if you've never been before. So here's a practical breakdown of everything you need to know if you're thinking of heading to Salalah during Khareef season. How to get from Abu Dhabi to Salalah Credit: Tanja Cotoaga/Unsplash Direct flights from Abu Dhabi take just under two hours. Wizz Air, Air Arabia and Etihad all operate seasonal routes, with Wizz Air offering the cheapest fares: Wizz Air: From Dhs179 (budget-friendly, no frills) Air Arabia: From Dhs399 Etihad Airways: From Dhs1,205 (if you're after full-service and convenience) Flights peak Khareef season (late July to early September) and they fill up quickly – so book early if you're set on flying. By road It's a long one – expect 12 to 14 hours on the road, depending on where you cross the border. Most people drive via Al Ain into Oman, then take the route through Nizwa and Haima. It's doable, but not short. You'll need car insurance that covers Oman and it's worth checking in advance whether your vehicle can be taken across the border (especially if it's leased or on finance). If you're stopping overnight, Muscat or Duqm are the usual halfway points. Visa info for UAE residents UAE residents need a tourist visa to enter Oman, even for short stays. Here's what you will need: Apply online via the Oman eVisa platform Ten-day tourist visas cost 5 OMR (around Dhs48) Processing is quick, but best not to leave it until the last minute You'll need at least six months' passport validity and if you're driving, make sure your car registration and GCC insurance are in order. Top tip: Apply at least 48 hours in advance during peak travel periods. What is Khareef season actually like? Khareef officially runs from June 21 to September 20, but the green really kicks in by late June and peaks around August. Expect temps around mid-20s°C and there can be fog, drizzle and light rain. Nights can get chilly, especially in the mountains and visibility drops in places like Jabal Samhan or Wadi Darbat. The closer you get to September, the less green it's likely to be – though there's still cooler weather and fewer crowds. Bring a light jacket, decent shoes and don't expect to swim in the sea – it might be too rough. What to do while you're there This isn't a city break in the typical sense – most of what you'll want to see is outside the city. If you don't rent a car, your options will be limited. Top sites (all reachable by car): Wadi Darbat: picnic spot with waterfalls, paddle boats and misty hills picnic spot with waterfalls, paddle boats and misty hills Al Mughsail: cliffs, blowholes and views over the Arabian Sea cliffs, blowholes and views over the Arabian Sea Ain Athum and Sahalnoot: natural springs surrounded by greenery natural springs surrounded by greenery Jabal Samhan: elevated viewpoints, dramatic fog and wild mountain roads elevated viewpoints, dramatic fog and wild mountain roads Marneef Cave: walkable coastal spot near the blowholes walkable coastal spot near the blowholes Frankincense Land Museum: archaeological site with history on the incense trade For longer stays, people often explore Taqah, Mirbat, or head further into the mountains. Things to know before you go Pack layers – it gets cool, especially in the hills. Traffic gets hectic around Eid and weekends. Book accommodation and transport early. Internet and mobile service can be spotty in remote areas – download your maps. No roaming? Get an Omani SIM at Salalah Airport or local shops. Be respectful of local customs – it's a conservative region, especially in villages. Where to stay You'll find everything from budget hotels to five-star resorts. If you're travelling during Eid or mid-August, book well in advance. Salalah fills up quickly during peak Khareef. Want to stay near the greenery? Try mountain guesthouses near Wadi Darbat. Prefer city convenience? Salalah city centre has familiar hotel chains. Road-tripping with friends or family? Look for villas or serviced apartments. Why Salalah is trending in the UAE Abu Dhabi has recently invested Dhs764 million into Salalah's tourism sector – including a huge beachfront resort project, marinas and luxury developments. It's part of a bigger UAE–Oman tourism push, so expect even more road trip-friendly resorts and high-end options over the next few years. For now, though, Salalah remains a refreshing, under-the-radar summer escape – and one that's surprisingly easy to reach. Time Out tip: Want to skip the flight and take the scenic route? Daily buses to Salalah run from Abu Dhabi and Sharjah for under Dhs100 – perfect if you're going with friends and don't want to drive. Summer in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss Psst: This is when summer officially ends in Abu Dhabi No complaints here 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
Time Out Dubai
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
11 best soft play areas in Dubai that the kids will love
Keeping kids entertained is one of the biggest challenges of adulting. luckily, there are plenty of cute indoor soft play areas in Dubai to make it easier. Whether you're looking for a way to burn off your toddler's endless energy or help them build balance and coordination, these spots have it all. From bounce zones and kids' museums to nature-inspired trails and mini obstacle courses (all blissfully air-conditioned), these soft play areas in Dubai serve up equal parts fun and learning for both kids and their grown-ups. So, book that play date and prepare to make some core memories. 11 indoor soft play areas in Dubai Boo Boo Laand Credit: Boo Boo Laand If you're looking for an aesthetic, picture-perfect spot to treat your kids to, this pastel-hued entertainment destination tops the list. Spanning over 25,000 square metres (a little smaller than a Carrefour), there are over 30 attractions from a snow park to a princess dress-up area, trampolines and interactive shows. Offering something for ages spanning from babies to teens, rest assured, the kiddos will have a jolly time, whether they're milking the soft-furred cows (yes, really) or playing with the snow at the snow park. From Dhs190. Ages: 0-15. Open daily 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (050 189 8140). KidZania Your kiddo loves tinkering with a cash counter and counting fake currency? This is where you should take them. Located in Dubai Mall, KidZania is packed with over 40 role-playing activities for children aged 2-16, where they'll learn all about jobs, money and the real world. KidZania has children's versions of a hospital, bank, radio station and more. Each ticket grants all-day access to most city activities. Plus, kids under two go free. From Dhs120. Ages: 2-16. Open daily 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, (04 448 5222) You might also like: Top kids summer camps in Dubai to book now Leo&Loona There's heaps to get involved in at Leo&Loona, with more than 20 unique attractions and ten-plus creative workshops for kids aged two to ten. Think trampolines, ball pools, climbing walls, pedal go-karts and more. This soft playground also hosts kids' masterclasses in bath bombs, slime, cooking and more. What's more, if you're feeling peckish, there's a café you can grab a latte and a snack from. Dhs179 (Mon-Fri, full-day pass), Dhs229 (Sat-Sun, full-day pass), free (under twos). Ages: 0-12. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Festival City Mall, (04 237 5454). Little Island, Adventure Island (Credit:Supplied) The can-not-stay-still kiddos will love it here. The soft play area within Adventure Island in City Centre Deira is perfect for big families. Little ones aged four to ten years can make their way through padded climbing structures, slides, ball pits, trampolines and sweat it out at interactive zones. Meanwhile, tweens and teens have plenty of brilliant activities to check out at this spot. Brought to us by the people behind one of the ultimate indoor adventure playgrounds, TEPfactor, there's everything from Prison Island to laser tag to canopy trails and laser mazes for the older kids to explore. Dhs69 (4-10 years, height restrictions apply). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm. Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. City Centre Deira, (052 120 0061) miniBOUNCE Credit: supplied miniBOUNCE, a zone within Bounce dedicated to kids, is the ultimate indoor playground for tiny adventurers. Designed just for little ones, the miniBOUNCE zones are packed with safe, high-energy fun. They can check out the slides, ball pits, mini obstacle courses and climb, tumble on and explore lots of little nooks and crannies. It builds confidence, teaches them freestyle movement and can help them pick up new skills, all while making new friends along the way. From Dhs80 (1 hour pass). Ages: Walking age-6. Open daily 10am-10pm. Spring Souk Mall, Oktopus Park by We Play Located inside Cityland Mall beside Global Village, this is one of the cutest soft play areas in Dubai. And it's perfect for those living near Al Barari, Majan and Arabian Ranches. The soft play features ball pits, wall-sized TV screens, obstacle courses, swings and a lot more to keep your little ones thoroughly hooked throughout the day. Plus, the pastel coloured-interiors are soothing to be around. Meanwhile, you can grab an iced latte and chill in the café. One thing to note, carry grip socks or get one from the park for Dhs10. From Dhs85. Ages: 2-12. Open Mon-Thu 10am-8pm, Fri-Sun 10am-10pm. Cityland Mall, @weplayae. Oli Oli This is a little children's museum that offers both play and learning, and a great place to nurture curiosity. The 8-plus galleries and over 40 interactive exhibits spread across two storeys are hands-on and let their imaginations run wild. Each space features artistic, innovative concepts that create a one-of-a-kind educational play experience. What's more, during summer, there's a SlimeMania section where kids can play with the fluffy, crunchy, clear, gummy or buttery slime. Get the Oli Oli Plus tickets, which start from Dhs179, for access. From Dhs139 (kids aged 2-16), Dhs69 (kids aged 12-23 months). Open daily 10am-7pm. Al Quoz 1, (04 702 7300). Orange wheels With locations in JVC, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah, Dubai Mall and Nad Al Sheba, this is perfectly placed for those living in the centre and down south of Dubai. Orange wheels is perfect for toddlers and kids alike who love an active day out. They've got free rein to run, jump and explore in a safe environment. They can even get crafty at the arts and crafts area. Parents who want to keep an eye on their tots can stick around and kick back in the café with a coffee. Dhs115 (two hours). Ages: 0.6-10 years. Circle Mall, JVC, Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah and Town Centre Jumeirah, Ready, set, go The theme of this soft play area is the underwater world. This is the perfect mini Atlantis for your little mer-babies. Apart from a range of oceanic adventures to explore, there's also an arts and crafts room, a beauty salon and interactive games to check out. With giant dolphins, starfish and octopuses floating overhead, and a sea of aquatic colours all around, it's a great place to get them acquainted with sea creatures. What's more, Ready, Set, Go also has a jungle-themed soft play at Al Quoz. So if you want to get them acquainted with nature, it's one to add to your list. Dhs99 (two hours, with nuggets or pizza), Dhs150 (day pass). Ages: Up to 12 years. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Sports Society, Mirdiff, @readysteadygouae (04 236 3305). The Green Planet Keen on getting your kiddos on the topic of conservation? This is a great place to begin. The biodome is home to over 3,000 exotic plants and animals (including two resident sloths) all living in a carefully recreated tropical rainforest environment. It's an immersive experience that lets visitors experience one of the world's most diverse and vital ecosystems, helping kids understand what it's really like to live in the wild. Want to get more hands-on? Kids can feed and interact with some of its residents. From Dhs155 (adult), Dhs135 (kids aged 2-10). Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Safa Street, (800 2629464). woo-hoo This is a stunning mini children's museum built for kids aged up to 12. Across 10 themed galleries, your kids will learn, make discoveries and have a whole lot of fun. Each cool interactive exhibit will expand your kids imaginations and spark their curiosity, whilst meeting clear learning objectives (just don't tell the little ones). From Dhs139 (adult and child). Open daily 10am-7pm. Al Quoz, (800 966466). Looking for things to do with the family? 24 fun things to do with teenagers in Dubai (that don't just involve malls) Cool activities they'll actually enjoy 51 brilliant family days out in the UAE For you and the little ones Too hot? 70 cool indoor activities in Dubai to tick off this summer Consider this your ultimate summer bucket list
What's On
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
8 lovely things to do in Dubai this week: May 12 to 15
Things to do in Dubai this week: sorted… Looking for some things to do in Dubai this week? There's plenty, from a sweet chocolatey afternoon tea to a cool art experience, a new ladies' night and more… Here are 8 fun things to do in Dubai this week Monday, May 12 Globby V! Over the past weekend, Global Village Dubai dropped some exciting news that it is extending its current season. That means you have a few extra days of Globby V fun ahead. If you haven't ticked off everything on your to-do list, this is the week to do it. Remember, children under the age of 12 can enter for free, which means some savings to spend on food, shopping or fun games and activities. Global Village UAE, Dubailand, Dubai, until May 18, ticket prices from Dhs25. @globalvillageUAE A taste of Belgium Godiva Café at Rixos Premium Dubai is offering a scrumptious afternoon tea experience combining Belgian chocolate heritage with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Savoury bites include cured salmon with caviar to Ottoman shrimp cocktail, sucuk & cheese Brioche and vegetarian quesadillas. On the sweet selection, there's Godiva's signature creations such as white chocolate cheesecake with kunafa crust, Turkish coffee chocolate swans, caramel éclairs, and Crème Brûlée. Pair your experience with Dammann Frères teas, or a choice of iced or flavoured coffee. It's Dhs179 per person, or Dhs269 for two, and the afternoon tea is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. Godiva Café, Rixos Premium Dubai, Dubai, 3pm to 6pm daily, Dhs179 for one and Dhs269 for two, Tel: (0)4 520 0000. @rixospremiumdubai Tuesday, May 13 Master the art of Spanish Cuisine Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is hosting a masterclass on May 13 and 27 where you can learn the art of crafting authentic paella. You will be guided by an expert head chef, Esteban Monroy, and his talented team – so don't worry, you won't spend the evening scraping burnt food off the pan. The hands-on cooking experience includes a welcome drink as you prepare a pitcher of our signature sangria. As you enjoy your sips, you will learn to create the perfect paella mastering the techniques and flavours that make this dish a beloved classic. And of course, after you're done cooking, you can enjoy the fruits of your labour and enjoy your paella with a selection of cold cuts. The two-hour session is Dhs300 per person. Book quick to book your spots on 04 409 5999. Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, May 13 and 26, 6pm to 8pm, Dhs300 per person. Tel: (0)4 409 5999. @kempinskidubai Teleport to Paris Immersive digital art space Art e Museum Dubai is collaborating with the famed Musée d'Orsay in Paris, to bring classic masterpieces in a new light. The exhibit invites visitors to experience the emotional and cultural depth of 19th-century French art with all the five senses engaged, as these pieces come to life. Expect to see ver 100 artworks from Monet's Water Lilies to Van Gogh's Starry Night. ARTE MUSEUM DUBAI, opposite Galeries Lafayette, Dubai Mall, Mon to Thurs, 10am to 11pm, Fri to Sun, 10am to 12am, Wednesday, May 14 Wellington Wednesdays Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria DIFC has a fantastic evening for fans of the Wellington – a classic British dish. Diners will get to indulge on a prime Angus beef Wellington – a 250gram slice of culinary mastery, served with rich beef jus, caramelised onion, and your choice of two sides. And of course, your experience comes with views of the Burj Khalifa and DIFC skyline. Enjoy for just Dhs250 per person. Get your bookings sorted here. Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria DIFC, Dubai, every Wed from 7pm. Tel: (0)4 515 9888. @ Bubbles and banter In need of some laughs? Head to Daftar every second Wednesday for its Midweek Comedy nights. It's a melting pot of Dubai's funniest folks from Flamingo Live, and they are sure to get you giggling. For Dhs75, you will get a ticket and two drinks. Pair it with Daftar's tempting treats such as the cajun chicken tikka, Awadhi biryani and Jhol momos. Book your table on 050 666 4158. Daftar, Al Fattan Currency House, Mezzanine floor, Tower 1, DIFC, Dubai, May 14 and 28, Dhs75 (includes two drinks), Tel: (0) 50 666 4158. @daftardubai Thursday, May 15 A slice of heaven The Coffe e Club , o ur Highly Commended Cafe at the Whats On Awards Dubai 2025 is now serving up steak, but for a limited time only. Expect a rich, juicy South African ribeye served with a pick of sides – mashed potatoes, seasonal veggies or French fries. Plus, a fresh garden salad, golden on ion rings and a choice of mushroom or peppercorn sauce. And for just Dhs109, that's quite the meal. The dish is only available at selected cafes: Bluewaters, Dubai Hills, Marina Mall, JLT, Oasis Mall and Springs Souk. The Coffee Club, selected outlets in Dubai, avail for a limited time only. @thecoffeeclubme High on heels Award-winning Siddharta Lounge has a new ladies' night on Thursday where the gals can enjoy unlimited drinks from 7pm to 10pm for just Dhs150 each. Selected drinks include a range of French, Italian, and Chilean wines, and cocktails and mocktails. Pair it with a la carte bites such as oysters, crispy eggplant with Gruyère cheese, pan-seared scallops, short rib bao, wagyu beef sliders, shrimp tempura, tuna tartare, a selection of sushi and much more. Your night of catch-up will include those twinkling 360-degree views. Plan with the group and secure your table now. Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar, Dubai Marina, Dubai, every Thurs, 7pm to 10pm, Dhs150. Tel: +971 (0)4 317 6000 @siddhartaloungedubai Images: Supplied
What's On
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
A charming catalogue of Ramadan offerings awaits at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi
This Ramadan, create unforgettable moments with your loved ones as you enjoy a unique Iftar experience at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi. Whether you prefer a lively alfresco setting, a stunning sky-high dining experience, or an elegant celebration during the Holy Month, this is the ideal setting to embrace the spirit of the season. What's On? Layali El Hilmiya Elevate your Ramadan evenings with an unforgettable Iftar and Suhoor at Layali El Hilmiya. Featuring a selection of traditional Ramadan favourites and live entertainment, this experience promises to create lasting memories all month long. The gorgeous terrace introduces you to the spirit of Ramadan with its charming alfresco setting. The generous buffet showcases all your Ramadan favourites, providing the perfect setting for gatherings with loved ones. Iftar is served from sunset onwards, priced at Dhs179 per guest and Dhs219 with Ramadan beverages. Suhoor starts at 9pm, priced at Dhs50 per guest for a mezze platter, with the suhoor set menu starting at Dhs75. Iftar in the Sky Break your fast high above the city, surrounded by a 360-degree view of Abu Dhabi and a gourmet Iftar feast that will take your breath away. At Stratos Revolving Lounge Bar & Grill, the delightful Iftar in the Sky offers you a truly exclusive dining experience. Perched on the 26th floor, this unique revolving restaurant transforms Iftar into an extraordinary vibe, while you enjoy stunning views of the city while indulging in a specially crafted 3-course set menu whether you choose to watch the golden hues of sunset or gaze at the twinkling city lights. Iftar in the Sky is available from sunset to 11 pm, priced at Dhs280 per person, inclusive of unlimited beverages. Early birds can enjoy a special offer of 20 per cent off for bookings of 20 guests or more, valid until March 1. Liwa Grand Ballroom Ideal for both group and corporate events, the newly renovated Liwa Grand Ballroom is a great option for your Iftar gatherings. Whether you're hosting colleagues, family, or friends, this expansive and stylish space offers a fantastic atmosphere for any occasion. With its elegant design and ample layout, this impressive venue blends contemporary style with timeless tradition, providing a memorable setting for your Iftar celebrations. Deals and Discounts More Cravings by Marriott Bonvoy Discover a world of flavours and great deals with the More Cravings by Marriott Bonvoy™ App. At Le Royal Méridien's Iftars, you can enjoy a 2-for-1 offer on Iftar, and for every 4 diners in a group, a fifth dines for free. The Entertainer With The Entertainer, you can take advantage of a special 'buy one, get one free' offer on Ramadan dining at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi. ADCB Cardholders Enjoy exclusive discounts with ADCB cards. You'll be able to avail of a fantastic 'buy 1, get 1 free' offer, and if you're planning to break your fast high in the sky at Stratos Revolving Lounge Bar & Grill, enjoy a 20 per cent discount. Discover more ADCB deals and discounts via the ADCB Mobile Banking app. Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Al Danah, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi. Tel: 800 101 101. @leroyalmeridienabudhabi
Gulf Business
04-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Why the HMD Fusion is packed with possibilities
HMD, the brand behind Human Mobile Devices, has just launched a modular smartphone that aims to deliver a truly personalised experience: the HMD Fusion. The HMD Fusion features a sleek, industrial-chic design, boasting a durable stainless steel-reinforced plastic body. Its minimalistic look is a nod to Gen Z's love for raw, grunge-inspired aesthetics, and the clear Casual Outfit included in the box allows the phone's innovative design to shine through. If you prefer a little more flair, there are multiple Casual Outfits available in various colours to add a personal touch, though they're sold separately. The body feels solid in hand, and the fact that it's designed with repairability in mind is a huge plus for sustainability enthusiasts. The phone is part of HMD's 'Fix It Yourself' initiative, which allows users to easily swap out parts like the screen, battery, and charging port. This approach not only saves you money but also reduces e-waste, making the phone a step forward in sustainable tech. Change the 'outfit' on the Fusion Customisation is where the HMD Fusion truly shines. This isn't just a phone — it's a canvas. The standout feature is the Smart Outfits, which allow users to transform the phone's hardware, software and even performance with ease. These outfits are attached via six specialised pins, making it super simple to change things up depending on your needs or mood. The Flashy Outfit, which comes free with the phone (valued at Dhs179), is perfect for selfie lovers. The foldable LED-flash ring is a cool addition, providing the perfect lighting for your selfies with adjustable brightness and colour options through the camera app. Whether you're after a soft natural glow or a bold, colourful lighting effect, it takes your selfie game to the next level. Looking ahead, the upcoming Gaming Outfit is another exciting addition. This outfit transforms your HMD Fusion into a portable gaming console, complete with gaming buttons and joysticks, giving you a truly immersive gaming experience. Plus, if you pick up the Gaming Outfit, you'll get two months of free cloud gaming with Blacknut, which includes access to over 500 titles. This is perfect for gamers who want to turn their smartphone into a powerhouse of entertainment. When it comes to cameras, the HMD Fusion is nothing short of impressive. The phone is equipped with a 108MP dual rear camera setup, designed to perform well in various lighting conditions and capture stunning details, whether you're snapping photos during the day or at night. The camera excels at speed too, ensuring that you never miss a moment. For the selfie kings and queens For selfies, the 50MP front camera will not disappoint. It includes features like Selfie Gestures and Selfie Slow-Mo, giving you plenty of options for creative shots. Whether you're taking a quick selfie or an action-packed slow-motion video, the HMD Fusion ensures you look your best in every frame. In an age where digital burnout is becoming a real issue, the HMD Fusion introduces The HMD Fusion packs powerful performance under the hood, offering a smooth, lag-free experience whether you're multitasking, gaming, or streaming. The phone's versatility and ease of customisation make it a true standout in the crowded smartphone market. The ability to switch outfits to match your needs — whether you're in the mood for gaming, a photoshoot, or just a plain old phone call — adds an element of fun and functionality that you won't find in many other devices. HMD has clearly put a lot of thought into the environmental impact of the The easy-to-repair design and the company's emphasis on reusing parts means that this device isn't just built for performance, but also for a longer life cycle. The HMD Fusion caters to users who crave personalisation and creativity, with its interchangeable outfits and customisable features. The powerful cameras, durable design, and forward-thinking sustainability initiatives make it an appealing choice for anyone looking for a phone that's as unique as they are. Value for money At Dhs1,099, it strikes a perfect balance between affordability and innovation. Whether you're a selfie enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who simply values a phone that can keep up with your style and needs, the HMD Fusion is a device worth considering.
