Lifestyle
Living here: housing, money, family and everyday life.
How to Keep Humidity at Bay in Your Gulf Home
High humidity is a fact of life in the Gulf, but with a few simple habits and the right tools you can keep your home comfortable and mould-free.
Essential Arabic Phrases for Everyday Life in the Gulf
From greetings to shopping, these practical expressions will help newcomers feel at home in the Gulf region.
How to Care for Dogs and Cats in the Gulf Summer
Practical tips to help your furry companions stay cool, hydrated and comfortable during the Gulf's hottest months.
Understanding the Call to Prayer in the Gulf: A Guide for New Residents
The adhan is a familiar sound across Gulf cities, marking five daily moments of pause. Here is what it means and how to navigate daily life around it.
How to Choose a School in the Gulf: A Parent's Guide
Finding the right school for your child in the Gulf can feel overwhelming. This practical guide walks you through curriculums, accreditations, cultural considerations and the steps to make an informed choice.
How to Open a Bank Account in the Gulf: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Residents
From gathering the right paperwork to choosing between current and savings accounts, here is how to set up banking in the Gulf with confidence.
Smart Ways to Save Money in the Gulf: A Household Budget Guide
Simple, everyday strategies for managing household expenses in the Gulf, from utility bills to grocery shopping and family leisure.
How to Navigate a Traditional Souq in the Gulf: A Practical Guide
From haggling with a smile to understanding the rhythm of the day, here’s how to make the most of a traditional Arabian market.
How to Create a Traditional Majlis Corner in Your Gulf Home
The majlis is the heart of Gulf hospitality. Here is how to bring this welcoming tradition into your own living space, from floor seating to the perfect coffee set.
The Art of Arabic Coffee in the Gulf: A Guide to Qahwa and Its Rituals
Arabic coffee, or qahwa, is far more than a drink in the Gulf – it is a symbol of hospitality, tradition and connection. Learn how it is made, served and enjoyed, and how you can take part in this timeless ritual.
How to Dress for the Gulf Climate: A Practical Guide for Comfort and Modesty
Staying cool and respectful in the Gulf's heat is easier with the right fabrics, layers and local know-how. This guide covers what to wear from the office to the souk.
Understanding Gulf Perfume Culture: A Guide to Oud, Bakhoor and Attar
Explore the rich traditions of oud, bakhoor and attar in Gulf culture. Learn how these fragrances are used in daily life, hospitality and personal care.
How to Handle Sandstorms in the Gulf: A Practical Guide
Sandstorms are a fact of life in the Gulf. Learn how to protect your home, health and car before, during and after the dust settles.
How to Care for Your Car in the Gulf Heat: Essential Tips
Protect your vehicle and stay safe on the road with these practical, year-round maintenance habits for driving in the Gulf.
How to Respectfully Navigate Ramadan in the Gulf: A Practical Guide
Ramadan is a special time of year in the Gulf. This guide helps non-Muslim residents and visitors understand everyday etiquette, from dining to dress, so you can participate respectfully.
Dubai Fitness Challenge turns 10: residents share how 30 days changed their lives
As Dubai Fitness Challenge returns for its 10th edition on 31 October, two residents tell how the event led to a marriage and a 50kg weight loss.
How to Create a Low-Maintenance Desert Garden in the Gulf
Transform your outdoor space into a thriving, water-wise oasis with the right plants and simple techniques suited to the region's arid climate.
How to Plan Around School Holidays in the Gulf: A Parent's Guide
Understanding the typical breaks and how to make the most of them for family time, travel and relaxation in the Gulf region.