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The National
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Top ice cream in the UAE: The scoop on the best sweet treat to beat the heat
Is there a dessert more synonymous with summer than ice cream? We think not. As temperatures soar here in the UAE, and on the occasion of International Ice Cream Day (which is July 20 annually), we have rounded up The National newsroom's favourite scoops. Salted saffron with luqaimat at Mina Creamery Mina Creamery specialises in a constantly revolving menu of seasonal and local flavours including halwa, gahwa, aseeda falooda and karak chai. The business came to life as part of an incubator within MiZa, Abu Dhabi, before becoming an online store. But it will soon return to MiZa with a brick-and-mortar shop opening at the end of August. The best flavour? It might be the salted saffron with luqaimat. While we wait for the MiZa shop to open, you can order online on a Wednesday for Thursday pickup or delivery, 500ml pots cost Dh50. Laura Koot, managing editor Mango softie at Salt The only thing that makes the long summers bearable for me is the promise of sweet and juicy mangoes, especially the ones that come from India and Pakistan, and all of the desserts that are made with mango during this season. One of my favourites is the mango softie from Salt (Dh35) – a light and refreshing no-frills dessert – which essentially feels like slurping on frozen mango pulp. It's served at various Salt locations in the UAE (including Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah's Marjan Island and Kite Beach in Dubai). I love that it is not too sweet and tastes just like eating an iced mango. Served swirled up in a cup and topped with fresh mango pieces, this dessert may be simple, but it really hits the spot. Aarti Jhurani, features sub-editor Terry's Orange at Scoopi Cafe Scoopi Cafe is known for making very fresh ice cream using liquid nitrogen. There is a time, a good few years ago, when I documented myself trying its jet-black activated charcoal ice cream, topped with edible 23K gold leaf (all in the name of work). Left with black teeth and unsure what gold tastes like, that wasn't my favourite, despite its surprisingly fresh citric taste. However, at the Time Out Market Dubai venue, I have been known to indulge in a few scoops of the brand's made-to-order sweet treats. My order depends on my mood, but it's always in a waffle cup and at the moment the Terry's Chocolate Orange-inspired flavour (Dh45), creamy and indulgent with a summery dash of orange, is my go-to. A few years ago, Scoopi made a name for itself serving Dubai's most expensive ice cream at Dh2,999. The Black Diamond ice cream was a sundae made with vanilla bean ice cream from Madagascar, saffron from Iran, rare black truffles from Italy and edible gold. That no longer seems to be on the menu, but the charcoal and gold scoop is, at Dh100 a pop. Farah Andrews, head of features Yoghurt honeycomb and sea salt (and more) at Hapi Not to be hyperbolic about it, but this is the best ice cream anywhere in the world, not just the UAE. You can enjoy it at Hapi's spot in Al Khazan Park in Dubai or you can order it on Deliveroo. If I'm going to a dinner party, I always bring three tubs with me – choco orange almond, mango sorbet, and yoghurt honeycomb and sea salt (Dh32 for 480ml). I love watching people react to trying it for the first time, because they all make the same face. Like they've just seen the light. The raspberry cheesecake flavour is great too. It's all great. Try them for yourself and you can thank me later. Added bonus: the artisanal ice cream is made in small batches with all-natural ingredients, and no artificial additives, preservatives or stabilisers. Nasri Atallah, editor of The National's Luxury magazine Avocado gelato at Located in Abu Dhabi's Zayed Port, scoops up the most delicious avocado gelato (from Dh21). Not only does it rhyme, but this perfectly creamy confection is the ultimate dessert for a savoury-leaning palate. I guess the consistent queue at the counter is all the evidence required to confirm the other flavours have fans, too. Laura Koot, managing editor Horlicks soft serve at Creme I discovered the soft serve at Creme after an epic dinner nearby. I was after something sweet but relatively light, and the guy behind the counter at the cult cookie spot from Soho, London didn't hesitate. 'Try the soft serve,' he said. It was smooth, creamy and deeply nostalgic. The flavour took me straight back to my teenage cereal addiction: Corn Flakes, Honey Smacks and Weetabix. When I asked what I was tasting, he just smiled and told me it's Horlicks. Horlicks, for the uninitiated, is a classic malted milk drink, somewhere between a health tonic and a comfort ritual. That's exactly what this soft serve tastes like. You can get it topped with cookie crumble, but I'd recommend having it plain to be swept up in those nostalgic flavours. Servings start at Dh32. Saeed Saeed, features writer Crema dal 1947 at La Romana dal 1947 One of the original flavours at this Italian gelato chain – and definitely my all-time favourite – the crema dal 1947 is available at La Romana outlets at The Galleria Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, plus Dubai Hills Mall and Bluewaters. It includes traditional Italian custard cream enhanced by vanilla extract and natural lemon zest. However, when it comes to ice cream, I like to go over the top, so my version comes with a classic batter crepe with Nutella and berries (from Dh41). Zoya Thomas, digital platforms editor Founder's Favourite at Cold Stone Creamery I first tasted Cold Stone Creamery when it arrived in the UAE in 2007, a year after I moved here, and it's been one sweet relationship ever since. Founded in Arizona, US, by Susan and Donald Sutherland (no relation to the Hollywood actor), the brand's appeal is customisability, allowing you to mix ice-cream flavours as well as other toppings, from gummies and graham crackers to brownies and chocolate bars. Whenever I am struggling to decide which mix I want, my go-to is Founder's Favourite (from Dh24). As the name suggests, it's a favourite of the brand's founders, and comprises sweet cream ice cream, mixed with pecans, brownie, fudge and drizzled with caramel sauce. I usually add Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and chocolate chip cookie dough to mine for the ultimate treat. Available at locations across the UAE. David Tusing, assistant features editor Love Potion #31 at Baskin-Robbins Baskin-Robbins has its American headquarters in my home state of Massachusetts, but I rarely ordered it back when I was in the US. It wasn't until one day when I tried the Love Potion #31 flavour in Abu Dhabi that it became my go-to ice cream. Luckily for me, it is available year-round in the UAE versus being just a seasonal option in the US, where it is usually found around Valentine's Day. Love Potion #31 is rich and indulgent, made with white chocolate and raspberry ice creams swirled together, with a ripple of raspberry and generous chunks of chocolate-flavoured hearts filled with raspberry. It may sound like a lot – creamy, fruity and chocolatey all in one bite – but it's mostly sweet with a bit of tartness for balance. An added bonus is that the single kids' scoop cup starts at Dh11, making it great value. Available at locations across the UAE. Evelyn Lau, assistant features editor Ashta with pistachios at Bachir While adding crunchy pistachios to Bachir's wonderful Ashta (clotted cream) ice cream is optional, the nostalgic flavour of rosewater is guaranteed to hit your senses from the first bite. A Lebanese brand, which launched in 1936, Bachir brought its well-loved flavours to the UAE in 2022. I was with my Lebanese friends, who insisted I try its signature Ashta, with pistachios and a dollop of whipped cream on top. Trying it transported me to my grandma's garden in Jordan, eating ice cream with her in the summer heat. Hala Nasar, social media journalist Lazy cake at Mama Booza A rich mix of premium dark chocolate with chunks of lazy cake (sharing pots cost Dh69), this ice-cream flavour from Mama Booza elevates a childhood dessert and turns it into something even better. Every bite takes me back to my family home, when I would reach for my mom's lazy cake rolls after every meal. It's a balanced treat that isn't too sweet, but still hits the spot when I'm craving something indulgent. The chunks of lazy cake are a flavour bomb – fudgy, chocolatey and super-satisfying. The combo of creamy ice cream and chewy cake bits gives it the perfect texture. Mama Booza is available at Kitchen Park in Wasl Port Views in Dubai, or for delivery via Deliveroo.
Zawya
04-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Empowering the next generation of journalists: The National opens applications for 2025-26 graduate programme
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The National, the Middle East's leading English-language news organisation, has officially opened applications for its 2025–26 Graduate Programme, reaffirming its commitment to developing the next generation of media professionals. This year, two graduates will be selected to join a bespoke four-month training programme, tailored to their individual interests and skills. The programme provides real-world newsroom experience across multiple departments and aims to transition successful participants into full-time roles at The National. Participants will rotate through at least two core areas of the newsroom, such as News, Business, Sports, Lifestyle, Arts, Opinion, Multimedia, Social Media, and Design. Each graduate will be paired with a dedicated mentor, and regular assessments with senior editors will track progress and offer valuable feedback. Laura Koot, The National's Managing Editor said: 'This programme is a key pillar of our long-term strategy to invest in journalistic talent and sustain excellence in our newsroom. We are committed to equipping emerging professionals with the skills, standards, and editorial rigour that define The National. We are proud that last year's cohort resulted in two full-time hires -- clear proof of the programme's value as a pipeline for future newsroom leaders.' Throughout the programme, participants will document their journey on The National's blog, offering insights for future applicants and a chance to reflect on their development. Application Process Applications are open now until June 30. Successful candidates will be notified on July 25, ahead of the programme beginning in September, 2025. Submission documents must be emailed to: GraduateProgramme@ and include: CV Cover letter Passport copy Three work samples (could be from published work, school assignments, or personal projects) Three story/project ideas for The National (with simple outlines, interviewee suggestions, and the news hook –reason to do the story now) Candidates must meet the following criteria: Graduated from a UAE university within the past two years Strong spoken and written English skills Availability to work flexible shifts in The National's Abu Dhabi newsroom About The National, an IMI company, was founded in 2008, setting a new standard for quality journalism in the Middle East. Each day The National reaches an influential, English-speaking audience from our headquarters in Abu Dhabi to deliver the latest in news, business, arts, culture, lifestyle and sports, while leading the region in analytical content and commentary. The National is committed to serving the local UAE community while delivering a strong international perspective to a growing audience. With bureaux in Beirut, Cairo, London and Washington, and correspondents in key cities in the Mena region and worldwide, The National has developed a reputation for providing in-depth coverage and a window into the region. The National has been extensively awarded for its design, reporting, photography and video work. Publishing across all digital platforms – reaching millions of readers, listeners and viewers each month - The National harnesses the latest multimedia tools while continuing to produce a print edition five days a week, distributed in the UAE. The National was originally launched as part of Abu Dhabi Media, before being acquired by International Media Investments and relaunched in 2017. The National is the destination to understand the Middle East at a time when the region has never been more important. About IMI IMI is a privately-owned, leading global media conglomerate headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with operations across 15 countries. Established to enrich lives and connect communities through innovative storytelling, IMI oversees an extensive portfolio of prestigious media brands including The National, Sky News Arabia, Al-Ain News, CNN Business Arabic, and Euronews. Committed to digital innovation and journalistic excellence, IMI operates state-of-the-art facilities, including the IMI Media Academy at IMI HQ in twofour54's Yas Creative Hub, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of media professionals. IMI continues to set industry standards, driving impactful content creation and engagement across diverse audiences worldwide. IMI's investment arm, RedBird IMI—a joint venture with RedBird Capital Partners—focuses on global investments in media, entertainment, and sports. Some of Redbird IMI's most prominent investments include All3Media, Media Res Studio, EverWonder Studio, Hidden Pigeon Company, Front Office Sports, and UFL.
Zawya
04-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
The National opens applications for 2025-26 graduate programme
Now in its third year, the four-month programme nurtures emerging UAE-based journalism talent with hands-on newsroom experience and mentorship Abu Dhabi, UAE – The National, the Middle East's leading English-language news organisation, has officially opened applications for its 2025–26 Graduate Programme, reaffirming its commitment to developing the next generation of media professionals. This year, two graduates will be selected to join a bespoke four-month training programme, tailored to their individual interests and skills. The programme provides real-world newsroom experience across multiple departments and aims to transition successful participants into full-time roles at The National. Participants will rotate through at least two core areas of the newsroom, such as News, Business, Sports, Lifestyle, Arts, Opinion, Multimedia, Social Media, and Design. Each graduate will be paired with a dedicated mentor, and regular assessments with senior editors will track progress and offer valuable feedback. Laura Koot, The National's Managing Editor said: 'This programme is a key pillar of our long-term strategy to invest in journalistic talent and sustain excellence in our newsroom. We are committed to equipping emerging professionals with the skills, standards, and editorial rigour that define The National. We are proud that last year's cohort resulted in two full-time hires -- clear proof of the programme's value as a pipeline for future newsroom leaders.' Throughout the programme, participants will document their journey on The National's blog, offering insights for future applicants and a chance to reflect on their development. Application Process Applications are open now until June 30. Successful candidates will be notified on July 25, ahead of the programme beginning in September, 2025. Submission documents must be emailed to: GraduateProgramme@ and include: CV Cover letter Passport copy Three work samples (could be from published work, school assignments, or personal projects) Three story/project ideas for The National (with simple outlines, interviewee suggestions, and the news hook –reason to do the story now) Candidates must meet the following criteria: Graduated from a UAE university within the past two years Strong spoken and written English skills Availability to work flexible shifts in The National's Abu Dhabi newsroom About The National, an IMI company, was founded in 2008, setting a new standard for quality journalism in the Middle East. Each day The National reaches an influential, English-speaking audience from our headquarters in Abu Dhabi to deliver the latest in news, business, arts, culture, lifestyle and sports, while leading the region in analytical content and commentary. The National is committed to serving the local UAE community while delivering a strong international perspective to a growing audience. With bureaux in Beirut, Cairo, London and Washington, and correspondents in key cities in the Mena region and worldwide, The National has developed a reputation for providing in-depth coverage and a window into the region. The National has been extensively awarded for its design, reporting, photography and video work. Publishing across all digital platforms – reaching millions of readers, listeners and viewers each month - The National harnesses the latest multimedia tools while continuing to produce a print edition five days a week, distributed in the UAE. The National was originally launched as part of Abu Dhabi Media, before being acquired by International Media Investments and relaunched in 2017. The National is the destination to understand the Middle East at a time when the region has never been more important. About IMI IMI is a privately-owned, leading global media conglomerate headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with operations across 15 countries. Established to enrich lives and connect communities through innovative storytelling, IMI oversees an extensive portfolio of prestigious media brands including The National, Sky News Arabia, Al-Ain News, CNN Business Arabic, and Euronews. Committed to digital innovation and journalistic excellence, IMI operates state-of-the-art facilities, including the IMI Media Academy at IMI HQ in twofour54's Yas Creative Hub, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of media professionals. IMI continues to set industry standards, driving impactful content creation and engagement across diverse audiences worldwide. IMI's investment arm, RedBird IMI—a joint venture with RedBird Capital Partners—focuses on global investments in media, entertainment, and sports. Some of Redbird IMI's most prominent investments include All3Media, Media Res Studio, EverWonder Studio, Hidden Pigeon Company, Front Office Sports, and UFL. Connect with IMI on Instagram, X, and LinkedIn, and visit us on
Otago Daily Times
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- Otago Daily Times
Mullets, utes, dogs on show at muster
Russell Bradley stands in front of his 1979 Toyota Land Cruiser at this year's Ute Muster in Gore. PHOTOS: ELLA SCOTT-FLEMING An annual Ute Muster, as part of Bayleys Tussock Country music festival, featured a mullet contest where generational supporters of the hairstyle competed to see who had the best '80s-inspired locks. Utes old and new lined up at the Southern Field Days site on Sunday to be judged in a variety of categories including best deck and highest number of kilometres. The utes begin their convoy out of Waimumu's Southern Field Days site, before heading along the main drag of Gore, to Croydon Lodge for prizegiving. The pickups were not the only things assessed by the judges as a crowd of about 60 Southlanders braved the icy temperatures to watch some entertaining dog and mullet competitions too. MC Rural experience provider Real Country owner Laura Koot said there was no-one more reluctant to put themselves in the spotlight than Southland men. Theanim Wilson, winner of best mullet in the senior category at the Ute Muster. The winner in the Junior category was Liam McCullen, 9, who said he had been growing his mullet since "he was born". Theanim Wilson, who won for his grown-out 'do in the adult category, initially tried to hide his mullet, which was done by "a hairdresser". Thirteen golden retriever puppies in the back of Cody Wards' duck-hunt decorated Toyota Hilux, won "Best Dog in a Ute". Ute-wise "Best Turned Out 4WD" went to Russell Bradley for his 1979 Nissan Patrol and "The Most Kilometres" was Anthony Haines' 1999 Toyota Hilux, which had 590,247km on the clock. "Best Dog in a Ute" went to Cody Wards' 13 newborn golden retriever puppies, nestled in the back of his Hilux and surrounded by duck-shooting-themed decor. Mr Wards also won "People's Choice" with his 2006 Hilux, awarding him $500 and "Best Classic Ute — Pre 1980" was given to Harman Harvey's 1930 Ford Model A. MC Laura Koot asks Liam McCullen, 9, how long he has been growing his prize-winning mullet. GWD marketing manager Hamish Tonkin said the weather was practically "tropical" compared to last year and it was great to see so many utes in every category as well as the mullets. The utes convoyed through Main St in Gore before heading to Croydon Lodge for prizegiving.
