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National Geographic
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- National Geographic
7 unforgettable experiences in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a captivating blend of heritage and ambition. As the captial of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the largest emirate, it boasts sprawling deserts, rugged mountains, serene mangroves, and endless coastlines. With more than 200 islands, it's home to futuristic museums, traditional souks, opulent mosques, and thriving wildlife reserves. From deep-rooted Bedouin culture to cutting-edge architecture, here are seven experiences that showcase Abu Dhabi's authentic and awe-inspiring charm. Museum hop at Saadiyat Cultural District Saadiyat Island, renowned for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts, has evolved into a premier destination featuring world-class museums and architectural marvels. Leading the way in the Saadiyat Cultural District is Louvre Abu Dhabi, which opened in 2017. 'It's more than a museum, it's a beacon of cultural exchange,' says Director Manuel Rabaté. 'It invites global audiences to explore universal stories, bridging civilizations through art and ideas in a space where architecture, culture, and humanity converge.' People visit the teamLab Phenomena, an immersive artwork experience museum, in Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Cultural District. Photo by GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images That vision is now unfolding across the district. Nowhere else in the world does the Louvre have a (soon-to-open) Guggenheim as a neighbor. Additionally, the Japanese import teamLab Phenomena opened its doors in April 2025, offering immersive digital art experiences and interactive installations. Meanwhile, Manarat Al Saadiyat remains a vibrant hub for exhibitions, workshops, and community events. Meanwhile, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum—both slated to open later this year—promise to deepen the island's cultural offerings, with the former showcasing Earth's 4.5-billion-year history, and the latter dedicated to the legacy of the UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. (The essential guide to visiting Abu Dhabi) Explore Abu Dhabi's forgotten port At Region, coffee comes with conversation, not cake. Guests share their hopes and dreams on handwritten cards pinned to the walls like a modern-day lonely-hearts column. The café is situated in one of the nearly 100 warehouses across Mina Zayed (MiZa), the former epicenter of Abu Dhabi's trade. It is undergoing a quiet and artistic revival following the cessation of the port's operations in 2012. Today, MiZa is emerging as 'a growing entrepreneurial neighborhood,' according to Khulood Al Atiyat, the deputy general manager for MiZa. 'More than a physical regeneration, MiZa is a platform for developing businesses and future-focused economies that will define Abu Dhabi's next chapter,' she adds. The refurbished Al Mina Fish Market remains a bustling landmark where visitors can select fresh seafood and have it cooked on-site. Nearby, the traditional souks hum with activity, selling a variety of goods, including carpets, spices, pottery, and more. Revamped in 2020, Souq Al Mina, a centerpiece of the area, features boutique stores, artisanal pop-ups, and homegrown restaurants along the breezy walkways. While visiting Abu Dhabi, adventurous travelers should consider a hike to the top of Jebel Harfit for views as far as the eye can see. Part of the mountain straddles the border with Oman, while the summit is located wholly within the UAE. Photograph by Peter Pesta Photography via Getty Images Climb a majestic mountain Elevate your Abu Dhabi experience by climbing Jebel Hafit, one of the UAE's tallest peaks, located just outside the historic city of Al Ain—often called the 'Garden City' for its oases and greenery. Roughly a two-hour drive from downtown Abu Dhabi, the mountain (or jebel in Arabic) has several trails starting at the bottom. Alternatively, the winding drive to the 1,249-meter (4,097-foot) summit offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert and the Omani border. It's a popular spot for capturing the light dancing across ancient limestone formations at sunrise and sunset. At the base, the Jebel Hafit Desert Park highlights the mountain's archaeological significance, featuring 5,000-year-old beehive tombs and camel trails. Whether hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the scenery, Jebel Hafit offers an unforgettable escape from the city. (10 the best hotels in Abu Dhabi for every type of traveler) Escape into the Rub Al Khali desert Abu Dhabi serves as a gateway to the Rub Al Khali, or Empty Quarter, one of the world's largest deserts. With dunes towering more than 300 meters (984 feet) across an area bigger than France, this vast expanse offers a glimpse into the nomadic Bedouin past. Liwa Adventure Tours and Desert Rose Tourism offer desert safaris that include dune bashing, camel rides, falconry displays, and traditional Bedouin hospitality under the stars. For a luxurious desert retreat, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort seamlessly combines heritage with modern comforts, offering 207 rooms, suites, and villas, along with a spa. The surrounding dramatic landscapes have served as the backdrop for films such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Dune. Travelers looking for a luxurious desert retreat can check into the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort located in Abu Dhabi's Liwa Desert. Photograph by Julie Bendlin Photography / Alamy Stock Photo Meet the local wildlife Once a remote retreat for Christian monks and now a sanctuary for cheetahs and flamingos, Sir Bani Yas Island blends rich history with its untamed natural beauty. The island's Arabian Wildlife Park, the UAE's largest wildlife reserve, is home to 17,000 free-roaming animals, including giraffes, hyenas, and Arabian oryx, which were once extinct in the wild. Back on the mainland, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital honors the emirate's falconry tradition, where visitors can meet, feed, and interact with the UAE's national bird. Try Michelin-starred manakish Emirati favorites such as manakish (cheesy Arabic bread) and shawarma (marinated meat in wraps) are a must for first-time visitors. Still, there's more to local cuisine than just street food. In 2024, Erth in Qasr Al Hosn became the first Emirati restaurant in the world to receive a Michelin star, while Ryba in Mina Zayed was awarded a Bib Gourmand in 2025. And, when he isn't feasting from his own kitchen, Ryba's founder and head chef, Faisal Mohamed, Alharmoodi enjoys eating at fellow Bib Gourmand Al Mrzab on Airport Road. 'I love the machboos and other Emirati rice dishes with fish and lamb. It's very good quality,' says Alharmoodi. 'I also enjoy desserts from the Golden Dallah Restaurant, which was started by local Emirati ladies as a catering service for traditional weddings. Their son later opened the restaurant in Al Dhafra, which makes greatluqaimat (fried dough balls), aseeda (dumplings), and very nice local drinks.' Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque A visit to Abu Dhabi would be incomplete without experiencing the grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring 82 domes and more than 1,000 columns, accommodates more than 40,000 worshippers. Its interiors shine with Swarovski crystal chandeliers and intricate floral mosaics, while its white marble exterior gleams in the desert sun. Open to visitors of all faiths, the mosque offers free guided tours daily, providing insights into its construction and cultural significance. For the best experience, visit at sunset when the golden light reflects off the water pools, casting an unforgettable glow. Emma Pearson is a UAE-based travel writer who has lived across three continents, sleeping everywhere from ancient caves to airport floors in the pursuit of a good story.
Newsweek
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Ukraine Destroys $16M Russian 'Alligator' Helicopter in Drone Strike
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A Russian attack helicopter was downed by a Ukrainian drone, according to Kyiv's military. Ukraine's Special Operations Forces said it had successfully targeted the Russian Ka-52 "Alligator" helicopter, worth an estimated $16 million, over Ukrainian territory, posting video of what it said showed the strike. Newsweek has been unable to verify the footage and has contacted the Russian Defense Ministry for comment. A Russian Kamov Ka-52 "Alligator" military attack helicopter is pictured at the Dubai Airshow on November 13, 2023. A Russian Kamov Ka-52 "Alligator" military attack helicopter is pictured at the Dubai Airshow on November 13, 2023. GIUSEPPE CACACE//Getty Images Why It Matters Ukraine has used drones to considerable effect on the front line, causing Russia to face high losses of troops and equipment. The strike on a Russian helicopter further demonstrates these capabilities. What To Know Ukraine's Special Operations Forces' Bombus Balista unit said it had conducted a successful strike on a Russian Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter using an FPV (first person view) drone. A video posted on social media appears to show the drone targeting the helicopter as it is on combat patrol over Ukrainian territory. No date or specific location was given for the operation. The post described it as a calculated strike that added to the further attrition of Russian aerial assets. ❗️A Ukrainian FPV drone hit a Russian Ka-52 Alligator helicopter. The helicopter is worth about $16 million. Glory! — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) May 16, 2025 In May 2024, Ukrainian forces shot down a Russian Ka-52 "Alligator" helicopter. On February 7 this year, another Ka-52 with its crew was taken down by a shoulder-launched MANPADS (Man Portable Air Defense System) near Avdiivka in the Donetsk region, according to Ukraine's United24 Media. Missiles and drones launched by Ukrainian Special Operations Forces have struck other high-value Russian military assets, according to reports, including a $45 million Russian Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile system in May and a rare Uragan multiple launch rocket system, United 24 Media reported. On Saturday, Ukrainian security service drones struck an ammunition depot used by Russia's 126th Coastal Defense Brigade in the southern Crimean Peninsula, causing a large explosion and fire, according to the Kyiv Independent citing an unnamed security official. The depot, located near a key highway between Simferopol and Alushta on the occupied peninsula, housed military equipment, ammunition and fuel storage facilities. What People Are Saying Ukraine's Special Operations Forces' Bombus Balista unit: "The Ka-52 attempted a combat patrol over Ukrainian fields, but did not anticipate the presence of our tactical drone group 'Bombus.'" What Happens Next President Volodymyr Zelensky announced in April that his country would step up production of long-range drones and ground-based robotic systems. Ukraine's drone campaign targeting Russian military facilities continues apace and following the strike on Crimea, Ukraine's Security Service told the Kyiv Independent "efforts to degrade (Russia's) military capabilities will continue."
Forbes
02-05-2025
- Forbes
Dubai Is Best City For Solo Women Travelers, Per New Study
A March study says Dubai is safe and the best city for solo women travelers, but the U.S. State Department warns women about walking alone there. (Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP) (Photo by GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images) Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is safe and the best city for solo female travelers, a March study said. A human rights group, however, has warned for years that women don't have equal rights in the country, and the U.S. State Department warns that women should be careful walking there alone. The study was done by travel insurance comparison website InsureMyTrip. It evaluated 62 cities worldwide based on data in eight categories: feeling safe walking alone at night, feeling safe despite gender, gender equality, a global peace and security index, hotel ratings, quality of things to do and average cost per day. Krakow, Poland ranked as the second-best city for solo women travelers, followed by Madrid, Spain and Munich, Germany. Munich was also cited as the safest of all cities studied. Hong Kong finished as the worst city for solo women travelers, and Orlando was named second-worst. Delhi, India was cited as the least safe city. Dubai received high scores for feeling safe walking alone at night, feeling safe despite gender, quality of things to do and TikTok popularity. The city's crime rate is very low, and most of public transport offers a women's-only section, InsureMyTrip said. The insurance website noted, however, that 'it's essential to research Dubai's laws and strict dress code before visiting, because women must dress modestly when in public areas.' Violating these rules could result in one-month imprisonment and deportation, the website said. The nonprofit organization Human Rights Watch says the United Arab Emirates has made 'limited reforms,' prohibiting discrimination based on sex and gender and removing a legal obligation for women to obey their husbands. 'However, those reforms fall short from uprooting all forms of discrimination against women, especially male guardianship over women.' Various travel websites cite Dubai as a safe destination, but the U.S. State Department's website issues warnings to American travelers. 'U.S. citizens, especially women, should take precautions against the possibility of verbal and physical harassment or sexual assault when walking alone, consuming alcohol or riding in a taxi cab,' the State Department says. 'Taxi passengers should avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxicab and should be sensitive that small talk can be misinterpreted as over-friendliness or even a form of propositioning by some taxi drivers.' At some airports, there are pink-roofed cabs driven by women for the exclusive use of female passengers, the State Department says. 'Some victims of sexual assault have been prosecuted for violating laws against sexual relations outside of marriage,' the State Department notes. 'The law puts a high burden of proof on the victim to demonstrate that sex was not consensual. In cases where the victim has failed to demonstrate so, both parties have been prosecuted, and sometimes sentenced to jail time, followed by deportation.' Travel insurance company Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection says on its website that Dubai 'is quite safe for tourists,' and 'violent crime directed at tourists is rare.' The company warns, however, that the United Arab Emirates adheres closely to Sharia law that has 'little tolerance for same-sex relations' and makes 'multiple common actions' illegal. Such actions include 'immodest dress, especially for women, which can include bare arms, low necklines and short shorts.' Penalties, Berkshire Hathaway says, 'can be even more harsh and protections fewer for women and LGBTQ+ travelers.'
Newsweek
23-04-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
AI Puts a Third of Government Jobs at Risk in One Pioneer City
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Artificial intelligence puts at risk the jobs of one third of government workers in Dubai as the city in the United Arab Emirates increasingly makes us of AI, according to a new study. Newsweek contacted the Dubai government media office for comment. Why It Matters Dubai is a pioneer in using AI and could set an example for others in using it to replace workers. It is another indication of the way in which AI can reshape labor markets and also a warning to workers worldwide of the magnitude of the change it could bring to their jobs. Children use a robot for assistance at the newly-opened Mohammed Bin Rashid library (MBRL) in Dubai on June 16, 2022. - The design incorporates technology and artificial intelligence to make the library as accessible as... Children use a robot for assistance at the newly-opened Mohammed Bin Rashid library (MBRL) in Dubai on June 16, 2022. - The design incorporates technology and artificial intelligence to make the library as accessible as possible, including robots to help visitors and an electronic book retrieval system. More GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP/Getty Images What To Know About one-third of Dubai government employees hold jobs highly exposed to AI automation, while two-thirds fall into lower or medium exposure roles, according to a study in April 2025 by the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) together with the government's human resources department. One of the world's fastest growing cities under Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Dubai is hoping to capitalize on AI with investments in initiatives such as the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) and partnerships with tech giants such as Microsoft. The study did not predict how many of the 60,000 Dubai employees could lose their jobs, but did say there would be a risk for those who did not adapt. The survey of over 1,000 government employees found job fears highest in customer service, administrative, legal, and front-line roles—sectors both highly exposed and with low AI usage. "With significant concerns emerging about job displacement due to AI automation and augmentation of existing roles, organizations must develop clear communication and change management strategies that help employees to transition to an AI augmented workforce," it said. Government jobs have traditionally been well-paid and comfortable roles in Dubai and are dominated by Emiratis while much of the private sector is heavily dependent on immigrant workers. The UAE also plans to use AI to accelerate the drafting of laws by up to 70%, part of a broader modernization effort, according to the Emirati News Agency WAM. What People Are Saying Keertana Subramani, Associate Researcher at MBRSG, as quoted by The Khaleej Times: "A survey of senior managers surprisingly found that 48 per cent of them were okay with people using Gen AI without disclosing that they used it." Nuha Hashem, co-founder of CozmoX, a UAE-based AI startup, as quoted by Al-Bawaba News: "In less than one day, based on the last 10 years of data, we could create an AI employee who can actually do the work of 100 people so those people can focus on productive work." International Labor Organization in 2024: "While AI has the potential to enhance worker productivity and drive economic growth, it also raises concerns about job displacement and exacerbating existing inequalities." What Happens Next Dubai is expected to scale up AI integration across government functions while grappling with the challenge of protecting vulnerable workers.
