2 November 20260211 ShareCrime & Safety|LeisureYou can still head into Sharjah's open desert for an evening with friends or family. Police have clarified there is no blanket ban on desert gatherings, Gulf News reports, following complaints about fines issued to five vehicles. Just observe traffic rules and stay out of restricted areas. Sitting in the desert isn't an offence by itself.
2 November 20260211 ShareCommunity|LeisureDubai's National Month celebrations begin tomorrow and run until 2 December. The programme includes the return of the beachfront Flag Garden near Burj Al Arab, UAE Parade activities and community celebrations leading up to Eid Al Etihad. Brand Dubai is coordinating events across the emirate, with more locations and dates to be announced. A month of reasons to get outdoors and celebrate, not just one day.
2 November 20260211 ShareTransport|LeisureSharjah has prepared improved access routes to Expo Centre ahead of the International Book Fair, which opens on 4 November. The traffic arrangements cover roads including Al Corniche Street and Al Ittihad Street, with clearer entrances, exits and directional signs. The fair runs until 15 November, bringing 2,673 publishers and exhibitors from 124 countries. Useful news if you're planning a family visit or regularly drive through Al Taawun.
1 November 20260111 ShareLeisure|EnvironmentDubai's Al Ruwayyah winter camping season began on 1 November and runs until 30 April 2027. The site now has space for 600 camps, around 120% more than before, including caravan plots and fully equipped daily rental camps. UAE nationals can apply for seasonal plots through Dubai Municipality. A useful option for families planning to spend more time outdoors as the weather improves.
31 October 20263110 ShareLeisure|Health|CommunityDubai Fitness Challenge is back from 31 October to 29 November, with free workouts, community activities and the usual promise of 30 minutes of exercise for 30 days. Fitness Villages are operating at Kite Beach, Zabeel Park and Al Warqa'a Park. Dubai Ride takes place on 1 November, followed by paddleboarding in Hatta and Dubai Run later in the month.
31 October 20263110 ShareTransport|LeisureDubai Ride will close parts of Sheikh Zayed Road, Lower Financial Centre Street and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard on Sunday, 1 November, from 3am to 9.30am. Dubai Metro will start at 3am to help participants get there. Drivers have been advised to use Al Wasl Road, Al Khail Road and other designated alternatives.
30 October 20263010 ShareHuman Interest|Community|LeisureDubai artist Sharan Budhrani has spent years living with muscular dystrophy, but his condition has not stopped him from creating art and writing poetry. Now 36, he is sharing his experience in a book called Chasing Kites, due to launch on 6 November. His message is about determination, creativity and refusing to let disability define a person's ambitions.
30 October 20263010 ShareEnvironment|Leisure|Crime & SafetyThe tanker oil spill off Umm Al Quwain has been contained, with authorities reporting no fresh leakage and a noticeable decline in pollution. Beaches in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah have faced precautionary closures while clean-up continues. Officials say market fish and drinking water remain safe. Beachgoers should check local restrictions before heading out.
26 October 20262610 ShareEducation|LeisureAbu Dhabi is launching a free youth orchestra programme for children, with its new home in Mina Zayed set to open in January 2027. The first cohort will offer 100 places for children aged six to nine, with training in Western classical and Arabic music. Parents can register their interest now through the programme's official website.
12 October 20261210 ShareShopping|Food & Drink|LeisureIbn Battuta Mall is expanding its retail, dining and entertainment offer with 38 new and upcoming openings.