arabiatoday

Lifestyle

Living here: housing, money, family and everyday life.

A clean, modern metro station with a train arriving
Lifestyle

How to Use Public Transport in the Gulf: A Practical Guide

From metro lines to buses, getting around Gulf cities without a car is easier than you think. Here's what you need to know.

Close-up of intricate henna patterns on a woman's hands
Lifestyle

The Art of Henna in the Gulf: A Beginner's Guide to Designs and Occasions

From weddings to Eid, henna is a cherished Gulf tradition. Discover the meaning behind the patterns and how to try it yourself.

A clean kitchen counter with sealed containers and a few natural deterrents like lemon and cloves
Lifestyle

How to Keep Common Household Pests at Bay in the Gulf: A Practical Guide

Ants, cockroaches and flies thrive in the Gulf's warm, humid climate. Here's how to prevent and manage them with simple, everyday habits and natural deterrents.

Car with learner driver on a desert road
Lifestyle

How to Get a Driving Licence in the Gulf: A Step-by-Step Guide

New to the Gulf? Here is what you need to know about getting behind the wheel, from documents to driving tests.

A tidy home office desk with a laptop, notebook and plant near a bright window
Lifestyle

How to Set Up a Productive Home Office in the Gulf

From managing glare to staying cool, here's how to create a comfortable and efficient workspace at home in the Gulf region.

A typical residential compound in the Gulf with low-rise villas and landscaped gardens.
Lifestyle

A Guide to Compound Living in the Gulf: What to Expect

Compounds offer a unique blend of community, comfort and privacy for expat families in the Gulf. Here is what daily life, amenities and the social scene are like.

Traditional Arabic geometric tile pattern with blue and white star shapes
Lifestyle

How to Read Arabic Numbers and Signs in the Gulf: A Practical Guide

A clear guide to the two sets of Arabic numerals and common words you will see on signs, from streets to parking, to help you navigate daily life with confidence.

A black plastic compost bin in a sunny garden with desert plants in the background
Lifestyle

How to Compost in the Gulf: A Practical Guide

Composting in the Gulf's hot, dry climate needs a different approach. Here's how to turn kitchen scraps into garden gold without odours or pests.

A modern car driving on a desert highway with a city skyline in the distance
Lifestyle

How to Buy a Car in the Gulf: A Step-by-Step Guide

From choosing between new and used to navigating registration and insurance, here’s what you need to know before buying a car in the Gulf.

Airtight containers for food storage on a kitchen shelf
Lifestyle

How to Store Food Properly in the Gulf Heat: A Practical Guide

High temperatures and humidity in the Gulf can quickly spoil food. These simple storage habits help you reduce waste, keep ingredients fresh and make the most of your kitchen.

Modern medical clinic reception area with a welcoming, neutral design.
Lifestyle

How to Navigate Healthcare in the Gulf: A Practical Guide for New Residents

From insurance cards to emergency numbers, here’s what every newcomer should know about accessing medical care in the Gulf.

Potted herbs growing on a sunny balcony
Lifestyle

How to Grow Herbs on a Gulf Balcony: A Practical Guide

From mint for tea to basil for salads, a balcony herb garden is possible even in the Gulf heat. Here is how to get started and keep your plants thriving.

A picnic basket with a city skyline in the background
Lifestyle

How to Plan a Staycation in the Gulf: Rediscover Your City

Swap long-haul flights for a weekend of local discovery. Here's how to plan a relaxing staycation in the Gulf that feels like a real break.

A taxi waiting on a street in a Gulf city, with modern buildings in the background.
Lifestyle

How to Use Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps in the Gulf: A Practical Guide

Getting around Gulf cities is easy once you understand local taxi etiquette and how to use ride-hailing apps safely and efficiently.

A person lying on a blanket looking at the starry night sky in the desert
Lifestyle

How to Go Stargazing in the Gulf: A Beginner's Guide

The Gulf's clear desert skies offer spectacular views of the night sky. With a little planning, you can enjoy stars, planets and meteor showers from just outside the city.

Lush green houseplants on a shelf in a modern living room
Lifestyle

How to Grow Thriving Indoor Plants in the Gulf: A Practical Guide

From snake plants to peace lilies, discover which houseplants cope best with air conditioning and low humidity, plus simple care routines for a lush indoor garden.

Traditional Gulf headwear displayed on a neutral background
Lifestyle

Ghutra and Agal: Understanding Gulf Men's Traditional Headwear

The white or red-checked head cloth and black cord are seen across the Gulf every day. Here is what they mean and how to appreciate them respectfully.

A reusable water bottle and a folded cotton tote bag on a kitchen counter.
Lifestyle

How to Reduce Plastic Waste in the Gulf: Everyday Swaps That Work

Small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference in the Gulf, where single-use plastics are common. Here are practical, low-effort swaps for everyday life.