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Stone-lined water channel running through a lush date palm oasis, with traditional mud-brick walls in the background.
Culture

Falaj: The Ancient Water Channels That Still Sustain the Gulf

Discover the traditional irrigation systems of Oman and the UAE, where gravity-fed channels have brought life to arid lands for millennia.

A four-wheel-drive vehicle driving across sand dunes in the desert.
Travel

Desert Driving in the Gulf: A Practical Guide to Safe Off-Road Adventures

From tyre pressure to recovery gear, here is what you need to know before heading into the dunes of the Arabian Peninsula.

A laptop with charts and a map of the Gulf region on a desk
Business

How to Conduct Market Research in the Gulf: A Practical Guide

Understanding local consumers, cultural nuances and data sources is key to entering Gulf markets successfully. This guide covers the essential steps for thorough market research.

A clock on a desk in a modern office.
Business

UAE Working Hours and Overtime: Key Rules for Employers and Employees

Understanding the UAE's labour law on working hours, overtime pay and Ramadan adjustments can help both companies and staff avoid disputes and plan effectively.

An empty sandy beach on the Arabian Gulf coast under a hazy sky
News

Sharjah closes all beaches as oil spill clean-up continues off UAE coast

Sharjah has temporarily shut its beaches, joining Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah, as teams work to contain an oil spill in the Arabian Gulf.

Two officials shaking hands at a diplomatic meeting
News

UAE and Canada Sign Landmark Economic Partnership as Sheikh Khaled Meets PM Carney

Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed held talks with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Ottawa as the two countries signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to boost trade and investment.

White marble mosque with domes and minarets under a blue sky
Travel

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: a practical guide to Abu Dhabi's masterpiece

One of the world's largest mosques is also one of the most welcoming. Here is what to expect, what to wear and how to make the most of a visit.

A small paper cup of karak tea held in a hand
Travel

Karak tea in the Gulf: a practical guide to the region's favourite brew

Sweet, milky and spiced, karak tea is the Gulf's beloved everyday drink. Here is what it is, where to find it and how to order it like a local.

Traditional wind tower houses in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai
Travel

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: A Practical Guide to Old Dubai

Wander the narrow lanes of Dubai's oldest residential quarter, where wind towers, courtyards and coral-stone walls offer a quiet contrast to the modern skyline.

Flamingos wading in shallow water at a wetland sanctuary in Dubai
Travel

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: a practical guide to Dubai's flamingo haven

Just minutes from downtown Dubai, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary offers close views of wild flamingos and other migratory birds from free hides. Here is what to expect and how to plan a visit.

Boxes of winter aid supplies including blankets and clothing
News

UAE sends Dh50m winter aid package to Gaza

The Emirates Red Crescent is delivering Dh50 million in winter supplies and medicine to Gaza, while Dubai Humanitarian launches an air bridge for thermal blankets.

Traditional frame drums resting on a rug at a desert heritage gathering
Culture

Ardah: The Sword Dance at the Heart of Gulf Celebrations

Drums, poetry and swords come together in the ardah, a traditional performance seen at national days, weddings and festivals across the Gulf. Here is what to look for.

Assorted dates of different colours piled in bowls at a market stall
Food & Drink

A Beginner's Guide to Gulf Dates: Varieties, Ripening Stages and How to Enjoy Them

From buttery Sukkari to dark, chewy Ajwa, here is how to tell the Gulf's favourite dates apart and get the most out of every box you buy.

A shaded walkway between tall date palms with a narrow stone water channel running alongside
Travel

Al Ain Oasis: a practical guide to walking the UAE's great palm garden

Shaded lanes, ancient water channels and tens of thousands of date palms: here is how to make the most of a visit to Al Ain's historic oasis.

A winding mountain road snaking through rugged rocky peaks at sunset
Travel

Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah: a practical guide to the UAE's highest mountain

Cooler air, hairpin roads and huge views over the Hajar Mountains. Here is how to make the most of a day on Jebel Jais.

A traditional wooden abra boat crossing a creek at sunset with low old buildings on the far bank
Travel

Crossing Dubai Creek by abra: a simple guide to the city's oldest commute

A ride on a wooden abra across Dubai Creek is one of the cheapest, shortest and most memorable things to do in the city. Here is how to make the most of it.