Wednesday, 23 April 2025
Explore Dubai

How to Discover Dubai's Newest Tourist Attractions: Must-See Experiences

Explore Unforgettable Experiences and Hidden Gems in Dubai's Thriving Landscape
Published: Monday, March 03, 2025
How to Discover Dubai's Newest Tourist Attractions: Must-See Experiences

Dubai is always upping the ante when it comes to mind-blowing attractions, and the city has once again outdone itself with a slew of incredible new openings. From thrilling entertainment hubs to immersive art experiences, here are the hottest new additions that belong on every visitor's Dubai itinerary.

Marsa Boulevard: A Waterfront Wonderland


The city's new Marsa Boulevard in Dubai Creek embodies quintessential Dubai charm. This laidback seasonal destination comes alive with food pop-ups, fashion showcases, live performances and engaging workshops. Foodies can savor creative dishes from homegrown concepts like Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Chef Nouel Catis, SLAB and Lost in Tokyo, while those looking for a cultural experience will find plenty to keep them entertained.

  • Location: Dubai Festival City, Marsa Al Khor, Dubai

Dubai On & Off Bus: Explore the City with Ease


Discover Dubai's top attractions with the new Dubai On & Off Bus by RTA. This sightseeing bus connects you to eight must-visit spots, including the Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame and the iconic Gold Souk. Enjoy the flexibility to hop on and off as you please, all while taking in the city's stunning landmarks from the comfort of the bus.

  • Price: AED35
  • Opening hours: Daily 10am to 10pm
  • Location: Dubai Mall Bus Station, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

House of Hype: An Epic Entertainment Hub


Blending entertainment, gaming, fashion and food, House of Hype in Dubai Mall Chinatown promises over 100 immersive experiences. Explore 50 gaming stations, 18 interactive worlds, 55 content creator stages, 14 shopping destinations and six dining venues - all under one roof. Uncover hidden rooms, catch spontaneous shows and get ready for nonstop excitement.

  • Price: From AED149
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 10am to midnight
  • Location: Level One, Chinatown, Dubai Mall

Marsa Al Arab Walk: A Waterfront Promenade with a View


The new Marsa Al Arab Walk in Jumeirah offers exceptional vistas of the iconic Burj Al Arab and a marina lined with upscale restaurants like Public, SALT and Meat The Fish. Stroll along this picturesque promenade and soak up the luxury yachting lifestyle.

  • Location: Al Darmeet Street - Umm Suqeim - Jumeirah 3 - Dubai

Swingers Crazy Golf: A Hole-in-One Experience


Tee off on one of three intricate nine-hole mini golf courses at Swingers Crazy Golf on Bluewaters Island. This 22,000 sq ft venue features loops, bumps and even moving obstacles, ensuring an unforgettable round of golf every time.

  • Price: From AED80
  • Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday 3pm-1am, Thursday and Friday: 3pm-2am, Saturday 12noon-2am and Sunday 12noon-1am.
  • Location: Bluewaters Island - Dubai

Ain Dubai: The World's Tallest Observation Wheel


No Dubai visit is complete without a ride on the iconic Ain Dubai. Standing at an impressive 250m, this bucket-list experience offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city's coastline, Dubai Marina and famous landmarks.

  • Price: From AED145 per person
  • Opening hours: Ain Dubai operates between 12 to 8:30pm from Tuesday to Friday and 11am to 8:30pm on Saturday and Sunday. It is closed on Mondays.
  • Location: Bluewaters Island, Dubai

Activate: Unleash Your Inner Athlete


Put your mental and physical agility to the test at Activate in City Centre Mirdif. This high-tech gaming experience features over 50 challenges across 10 levels, from easy to extreme. Collaborate with friends or compete against them to climb the scoreboard.

  • Price: From AED95
  • Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 10pm and Saturday to Sunday 10am to 12 midnight
  • Location: City Centre Mirdif, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd, Mirdif, Dubai

The Smash Room City: Unleash Your Stress


Channel your inner rage at The Smash Room City's themed rooms in Sports Society Mirdif. From an office to a supermarket, you can choose your setting and start smashing electronics, glassware and more to your heart's content.

  • Price: From AED347 for two people
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 10am to 10pm and Friday to Saturday 10am to 12 midnight
  • Location: Umm Suqeim Street - Al Quoz

Five Iron Golf Dubai: Tee Off Indoors


Master your swing at Five Iron Golf Dubai, the world's largest indoor golf venue. With 17 state-of-the-art simulators, a mini golf course, putting green and more, this arena offers entertainment for all levels, from beginners to pros.

  • Price: From AED149
  • Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday - 7am to midnight, Friday and Saturday 7am to 2am.
  • Location: Beach Resort & Marina - The Westin - Dubai Marina - Dubai

Boo Boo Laand: An Enchanting Play Haven


Spanning 25,000 sq ft in Dubai Mall, Boo Boo Laand is a whimsical wonderland for children. Little ones can explore princess-themed areas, sports zones, a snow park, trampolines and much more, while parents indulge in the onsite nail spa and café.

  • Ticket prices: From AED150 for two hours (for ages one to two) and AED190 (for ages three to 15). Infants under one year old can enter for free
  • Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 10am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday: 10am to 12 midnight
  • Location: Dubai Mall - Shop 321, 1st Floor, Chinatown, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Chaos Karts: Adrenaline-Fueled Go-Karting


Strap on your helmet and get ready to zip around Chaos Karts' state-of-the-art circuits, which use digital projections and augmented reality to transport you to thrilling destinations like the Arabian desert and an out-of-this-world cosmos course.

  • Price: From AED104
  • Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 1pm to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 11am to 11pm
  • Location: Chaos Karts UAE, 6A Street, Al Quoz, Dubai

Museum of Candy: A Sweet Dreamland


Dive into a vibrant, Instagrammable world of confectionery at the world's first Museum of Candy. Explore eight zones filled with interactive exhibits and create your own sugary treats in the Candy Lab.

  • Price: From AED119
  • Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 10am to 10pm and Friday to Sunday 10am to 12am
  • Location: Umm Hurair Road, Oud Metha, Dubai

Loco Bear: An Indoor Playground for All


Embrace the chaos at Loco Bear in Al Quoz, an indoor entertainment paradise packed with trampolines, laser tag arenas, a bowling alley, virtual reality experiences and more. Burn off energy, test your skills and make unforgettable memories.

  • Price: The cost varies according to activity.
  • Opening Hours: Loco Bear opens at 12pm (Monday to Friday) and 11am (Saturday and Sunday), and closes at 10pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 11pm (Friday and Saturday)
  • Location: Al Quoz 2, Dubai

Real Madrid World: Football Fanatics' Dream


Become a Real Madrid super-fan at the world's first football theme park, Real Madrid World. Conquer thrilling rides like the region's first wooden roller coaster, Hala Madrid, and feel the rush of the Stars Flyer, the world's tallest amusement ride.

  • Price: Tickets start from AED295 online.
  • Opening Hours: 12-9pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 12-10pm (Friday and Saturday)
  • Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai

ARTE MUSEUM Dubai: An Immersive Art Journey


Step into a mesmerizing digital art experience at ARTE MUSEUM Dubai. Spanning 2,800 sq m in Dubai Mall, this immersive gallery uses cutting-edge technology to showcase captivating exhibits under the theme of 'Eternal Nature'.

  • Price:  Tickets start from AED69
  • Opening Hours: 10am-11pm (Monday to Thursday) and 10am-12am (Friday to Sunday)
  • Location: Dubai Mall - Level 2 Financial Center Rd - opposite Galerie Lafayette - Downtown Dubai - Dubai

GLITCH: Gaming and Gravity-Defying Fun


Challenge your friends and family to a round of bowling, SkySurf (the city's first roller glider experience) or a ninja warrior-style course at GLITCH in Al Ghurair Centre.

  • Price: From AED25
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10am - 11pm, extended to midnight on weekends
  • Location: Level 2, Al Ghurair Centre - Deira - Dubai

Market Island: Dubai's Premier Food Hall


Embark on a global culinary adventure at Market Island, the largest food hall in the Middle East, located in Dubai Festival City Mall. Discover a mouthwatering selection of over 50 international and local food outlets.

  • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 10am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 10am to midnight
  • Location: Dubai Festival City Mall - Crescent Drive - Dubai Festival City - Dubai

SuperPark Dubai: An Indoor Wonderland


Unleash your inner child at SuperPark Dubai in City Centre Mirdif. This 40,000 sq ft indoor playground features sliding mountains, climbing structures, pedal car tracks, ziplines and sports courts to keep you entertained for hours.

  • Price: A one-hour session at SuperPark Dubai costs AED90.
  • Opening Hours: 10am to midnight
  • Location: Level 1, City Centre Mirdif

Dubai Crocodile Park: A Reptilian Retreat


Marvel at over 250 Nile crocodiles in their natural habitat at Dubai Crocodile Park, adjacent to Mushrif Park. Get up close with these fascinating creatures at various feeding stations and learn more about them in the onsite museum.

  • Price: AED75 (Ages three to 12) and AED95 (Ages 13 and up)
  • Opening Hours: 10am-10pm
  • Location: Mushrif - Dubai

These attractions promise to elevate your Dubai experience, offering something for everyone from adventure seekers to food lovers. Don’t miss out on these exciting new additions!

Singapore Airlines Invests S$45M to Upgrade Changi T2 Lounges

Published: Monday, April 21, 2025
Singapore Airlines Invests S$45M to Upgrade Changi T2 Lounges

Singapore Airlines has launched a comprehensive S$45 million renovation of its SilverKris and KrisFlyer Gold lounges at Changi Airport Terminal 2, marking its largest overhaul of the facilities in over a decade. The phased upgrades, which began on 15 April 2025 and will conclude by mid-2027, aim to deliver a 50% expansion in lounge space and seating capacity while integrating design and culinary elements from the airline’s award-winning Terminal 3 lounges.

First Class Lounge: Premium Redesign

The First Class SilverKris Lounge, undergoing immediate renovations, will relocate to a new area with floor-to-ceiling windows, higher ceilings, and a reconfigured layout to maximize natural light and space. Key upgrades include an expanded bar offering barista services in the morning, live cooking stations serving Singaporean, Asian, and Western dishes, and a self-service buffet mirroring the Terminal 3 flagship lounge’s offerings. Completion is slated for late 2025.

Business Class Enhancements

The Business Class SilverKris Lounge will expand by 30% starting in late 2025, introducing productivity pods, quiet zones with recliners, and a full-service bar with signature cocktails. The redesigned space will feature wingback chairs, communal worktables, and an enhanced buffet selection, catering to both leisure and business travelers.

KrisFlyer Gold Lounge Upgrades

The KrisFlyer Gold Lounge, doubling in size from early 2026, will finally include dedicated restrooms and shower suites—a first for this lounge category at Terminal 2. The expansion addresses long-standing passenger feedback about limited amenities, with new seating configurations and an upgraded food-and-beverage lineup.

Phased Renovation Strategy

To minimize disruption, renovations will proceed sequentially:

  • First Class Lounge: April 2025–Q4 2025
  • Business Class Lounge: Q4 2025–2026
  • KrisFlyer Gold Lounge: H1 2026–mid-2027.

Leadership Vision

Senior Vice President Yeoh Phee Teik emphasized the project’s role in delivering a “seamless, world-class experience,” aligning Terminal 2’s offerings with the airline’s global reputation for premium service. The overhaul follows SIA’s S$50 million Terminal 3 lounge renovations (2019–2022) and addresses outdated designs and capacity constraints at Terminal 2.

Culinary and Design Highlights

All lounges will feature live cooking stations, curated beverage programs, and ergonomic seating. The redesign prioritizes natural light, open layouts, and regionally inspired décor, reflecting Singapore’s cultural heritage while maintaining the airline’s modern aesthetic.

Zayed Int'l Airport Named World's Best for Arrivals Third Year Running

Published: Monday, April 14, 2025
Zayed Int'l Airport Named World's Best for Arrivals Third Year Running

Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi has once again cemented its reputation as a global leader in passenger experience by being named the "Best Airport at Arrivals Globally" for the third consecutive year at the 2024 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, organized by Airports Council International (ACI) World.

This accolade highlights AUH’s dedication to providing seamless and exceptional arrival experiences, supported by its state-of-the-art facilities and innovative passenger services. In 2024, the airport welcomed nearly 29 million passengers, showcasing its ability to handle increasing demand while maintaining world-class standards.

The recognition comes as part of ACI’s ASQ program, which evaluates airports based on real-time feedback from travelers, covering over 30 key performance indicators such as efficiency, comfort, and overall satisfaction.

Nearly 700,000 surveys were conducted globally in 2024, making the ASQ Awards a trusted benchmark for excellence in customer experience. ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci praised AUH for setting a new standard for excellence and exceeding passenger expectations.

AUH’s success is underpinned by significant investments in infrastructure and technology. The airport recently completed upgrades to its terminals and expanded its airline network, enhancing connectivity and capacity.

Additionally, it is pioneering a "document-free" travel initiative through biometric technology integration, aiming to become the world’s first fully document-free airport by the end of 2025. These advancements align with Abu Dhabi’s broader vision for digital transformation and economic growth.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, expressed pride in the achievement, emphasizing the team’s commitment to delivering memorable first impressions of Abu Dhabi. The airport also plays a vital role in supporting the emirate’s Economic Vision 2030 by fostering tourism, commerce, and foreign investment.

With its strategic location between eastern and western trade routes and cutting-edge facilities like the Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), AUH is positioned as a premier global aviation hub.

In addition to this accolade, AUH has been recognized for its architectural beauty and operational excellence. The airport continues to break records, including handling over 92,000 passengers in a single day in August 2024.

As it looks toward the future, Zayed International Airport remains committed to redefining passenger journeys through innovation, sustainability initiatives like energy-efficient systems, and inclusivity-focused services that cater to diverse traveler needs.

Skytrax World Airport Awards

Dubai International Airport Secures 11th Spot in Skytrax Awards 2025

Luxury Hub Amidst Global Competition
Published: Sunday, April 13, 2025
Dubai International Airport Secures 11th Spot in Skytrax Awards 2025

Dubai International Airport has been ranked as the 11th best airport globally in the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards. This prestigious ranking highlights Dubai's status as a major travel hub, known for its luxury and exceptional shopping experiences.

Dubai International Airport's position within the top 20 underscores its commitment to providing a high-quality travel experience, despite not reaching the top ten. 

The airport's amenities, such as its extensive shopping options, including luxury brands like Gucci and Burberry, contribute to its appeal. Additionally, Dubai International offers a range of lounges, including the Marhaba Lounge and Ahlan Business Class Lounge, which provide travelers with comfort and convenience through amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, showers, and dining options.

Dubai's ranking can be attributed to its continuous efforts to enhance passenger experience. The airport features advanced facilities such as free high-speed Wi-Fi, convenient power sockets, and water filling stations across all terminals.

Furthermore, Dubai International offers special services like home check-in, fast-track facilities, and medical assistance, which cater to diverse passenger needs.

The airport's strategic location and extensive airline network also make it a preferred transit point for travelers between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Despite these strengths, Dubai International faces stiff competition from other major airports, particularly those in Asia, which have dominated the top spots in the Skytrax rankings.

In the broader context, the Skytrax awards saw Singapore Changi Airport claim the top spot for the thirteenth time, followed by Doha's Hamad International Airport, which was recognized for its shopping and regional excellence.

The dominance of Asian airports in the rankings reflects their focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.

Dubai International Airport's 11th position is a testament to its enduring appeal as a luxury travel hub, but it also indicates areas for improvement to compete with the world's best airports.

Skytrax World Airport Awards

Bahrain Airport Ranked 20th Globally by Skytrax

Achieves Triple Win for Cleanliness and Service Excellence
Published: Sunday, April 13, 2025
Bahrain Airport Ranked 20th Globally by Skytrax

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has been ranked as the 20th best airport in the world in the prestigious 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards, marking a significant achievement for the Gulf region. The awards, held at the Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid, Spain, are based on global passenger surveys that evaluate airports on various aspects of customer experience. This recognition highlights BIA’s growing prominence as a world-class aviation hub.

In addition to its global ranking, BIA achieved a triple win at the awards. It was named the "World’s Cleanest Airport" among facilities handling up to 25 million passengers annually, the "Middle East’s Cleanest Airport," and the "World’s Best Airport Serving 5-10 Million Passengers." These accolades underscore BIA’s commitment to maintaining exceptional cleanliness standards and delivering seamless travel experiences.

The airport also ranked third globally for "Best Immigration Services" and fourth for "Best Baggage Delivery," showcasing its efficiency in critical passenger services.

The awards were accepted by Eyad Ismaeel, Vice President of Facility Management at Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), who expressed pride in the airport's accomplishments. Gulf Air Group Chairman Khalid Hussain Taqi emphasized that these honors reflect Bahrain’s strategic importance in the aviation industry and celebrate the dedication of BIA’s teams.

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, commended BIA for its consistent excellence, particularly in cleanliness—a key driver of passenger satisfaction. With its modern $1.1 billion terminal inaugurated in 2021, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a capacity to handle 14 million passengers annually, BIA continues to set benchmarks for boutique airports worldwide.

These achievements reaffirm Bahrain International Airport’s role as a gateway connecting Bahrain to global destinations while enhancing its reputation on the international stage.

Skytrax World Airport Awards

Tokyo Haneda Airport Named 3rd World's Best Airport in 2025 by Skytrax

Honored for Cleanliness and Service Excellence
Published: Friday, April 11, 2025
Tokyo Haneda Airport Named 3rd World's Best Airport in 2025 by Skytrax

Tokyo Haneda Airport, officially known as Tokyo International Airport, has been recognized as the third-best airport globally in the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards. This prestigious ranking highlights Haneda's exceptional cleanliness, efficiency, and accessibility, making it a standout among international airports.

Located approximately 15 kilometers from central Tokyo, Haneda serves as a crucial transportation hub for both domestic and international travelers, offering unparalleled convenience and accessibility to the city.

Tokyo Haneda Airport, officially known as Tokyo International Airport, is a historic and vital hub for Japanese air travel. Established in 1931 as Haneda Airfield, it initially served as Japan's largest civil airport, replacing the army air base at Tachikawa. During World War II, plans for a new municipal airport were abandoned, and Haneda was expanded under Allied Occupation (1945–1952) to serve both military and civilian transportation needs. 

Post-war, Haneda became Japan's primary gateway for international passenger flights, with airlines like Northwest Orient Airlines and Pan American World Airways introducing routes connecting Tokyo to major global destinations.

The airport underwent significant development in the mid-20th century. A new passenger terminal opened in 1955, followed by the inauguration of the Tokyo Monorail in 1964, which provided a direct 20-minute connection to downtown Tokyo. By the late 1970s, most international services were transferred to Narita International Airport, but Haneda remained a key domestic hub.

In October 2010, Haneda reclaimed its status as a major international gateway with the opening of Runway D and a state-of-the-art international passenger terminal

Haneda has consistently evolved to meet growing demand and enhance passenger experience. It now handles over 85 million passengers annually and is recognized for its world-class facilities. Recent expansions include Terminal 3's transformation into an international hub and the creation of Haneda Nihonbashi Bridge in 2014.

The airport features extensive shopping areas, diverse dining options, accessible facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, and cutting-edge amenities like duty-free pick-up counters and Wi-Fi rentals.

Haneda’s cultural significance is also reflected in its unique Japanese hospitality. Travelers often remark on the ground crew’s tradition of waving goodbye and bowing as planes depart—a gesture that highlights Japan's commitment to customer service.

Today, Haneda stands as a symbol of innovation and efficiency in global aviation, earning accolades such as being ranked the third-best airport in the world by Skytrax in 2025. Its strategic location near Tokyo's city center, seamless transportation links via monorail and train lines, and dedication to cleanliness and accessibility make it a preferred choice for both domestic and international travelers.

Key Features and Facilities of Haneda Airport

  • Convenience and Accessibility: Haneda's proximity to Tokyo's city center allows for quick and easy access via the Keikyu Line and Tokyo Monorail, connecting travelers to major stations like Shinagawa and Hamamatsucho.

  • Facilities and Services: The airport features extensive shopping areas, including duty-free stores and Japanese specialty shops, as well as a variety of dining options offering authentic Japanese cuisine. Notable dining spots include "Edo Koji" in the international terminal, which recreates the Edo period atmosphere.

  • Lounges and Accommodations: Haneda offers multiple airline lounges, such as those operated by Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways, as well as shared lounges like the Power Lounge and Sky Lounge. Directly connected hotels, including the Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu and Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Haneda, provide convenient accommodations for travelers.

  • Accessibility for All: Haneda is recognized for its accessible facilities, ensuring that passengers with reduced mobility have a seamless experience. This includes comprehensive services and amenities designed to cater to diverse needs.

  • Cultural Experience: The airport offers a unique cultural experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Japanese hospitality ("omotenashi") from the moment they arrive. This includes shopping for traditional crafts and enjoying local cuisine.

  • Transportation and Amenities: Beyond its core functions, Haneda provides additional services such as baggage delivery, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi rentals. The airport is also equipped with ATMs and convenience stores available 24 hours a day.

  • Haneda Airport Garden: This retail and dining complex, connected to Terminal 3, offers over 60 shops and 20 restaurants, enhancing the overall travel experience with its diverse offerings. It features a variety of Japanese cuisine, including dishes from Nagoya, Gunma, and Kyoto.

  • Health and Safety Services: Each terminal includes a pharmacy, a clinic, and a police box, ensuring traveler safety and health needs are met. Dozens of AED machines are also available throughout the airport.

  • Information and Assistance: Information counters are situated at various locations, providing assistance to travelers. Additionally, an information call service is available for further support.

Tips for Travelers at Haneda Airport

  1. Plan Ahead: Arrive at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours before your international flight to account for security checks and potential lines.

  2. Use Public Transport: The Keikyu Line and Tokyo Monorail are efficient and cost-effective ways to reach central Tokyo. Consider purchasing a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel.

  3. Explore Duty-Free Shopping: Haneda offers a wide range of duty-free products, including cosmetics, liquor, and electronics. Take advantage of these deals to save money.

  4. Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try authentic Japanese food at the airport. From sushi to ramen, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

  5. Stay Connected: Rent a portable Wi-Fi hotspot or purchase a prepaid SIM card to stay connected throughout your trip in Japan.

  6. Use Airport Lounges: If you have access to an airport lounge, take advantage of the amenities like free Wi-Fi, snacks, and drinks to relax before your flight.

  7. Download Airport Apps: Utilize the Haneda Airport app to navigate terminals, check flight information, and locate facilities easily.

  8. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of Japanese customs and etiquette, especially when interacting with airport staff or using public facilities.

Haneda's consistent ranking among the world's best airports reflects its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, making it an ideal gateway for travelers to Japan.