Welcome to J1 Beach, the new gem of Dubai's coastline, where sun, sand, and sumptuous dining converge. This vibrant beach resort has emerged from the ashes of La Mer South, which was demolished in December 2022, and it has now unveiled a remarkable collection of twelve unique beach clubs and restaurants. Each venue promises an unforgettable experience, from the laid-back vibes of Tulum to the chic elegance of St. Tropez.

Introducing the 12 Exciting Concepts at J1 Beach

Sirene by Gaia

Step into a world of Aegean-inspired luxury at Sirene Beach by Gaia. This stunning destination boasts hidden bars, a sprawling restaurant accommodating up to 400 guests, a golden beach, and a lavish swimming pool surrounded by 300 sunbeds and private VIP cabanas. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a delectable meal crafted by renowned chef Izu Ani, expect a menu rich in Greek-Mediterranean delights. With the ambiance enhanced by resident DJs, the day unfolds into magical Myconian-style evenings. Weekday access is priced at Dhs300, rising to Dhs500 on weekends.

• Facilities: Swimming pool, private cabanas, sunbeds, beach access, dining area, and DJ entertainment.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily 10 AM - 1 AM

Gitano

Originating from Tulum, Gitano embodies a bohemian spirit with its lush, tropical aesthetic. The interior is adorned with verdant plants and rustic wooden tables, creating a vibrant atmosphere under shimmering disco balls. Guests can indulge in modern Mexican cuisine and signature mezcal cocktails, either in the lively ‘Jungle Room’ or from a sun lounger on the beach. Weekday loungers are priced at Dhs350, while weekends see a rise to Dhs400.

• Facilities: Indoor and outdoor seating, pool area, beach access, and a vibrant cocktail bar.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Beach 11 AM - 7 PM; Restaurant 12 PM - 1 AM (Weekdays), 12 PM - 3 AM (Weekends)

Gigi Rigolatto

Bringing a taste of St Tropez to Dubai, Gigi Rigolatto combines Italian charm with French Riviera flair. With a beautifully landscaped garden, inviting pool, and a boutique, this venue is perfect for leisurely days spent in style. Families will love the upcoming Gigi Circus kids club, making it a popular spot for all ages.

• Facilities: Pool, garden area, kids club, and boutique shopping.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Pool 10 AM - Sunset; Restaurant 12 PM - 6 PM, 8 PM - 1 AM

Almayass by the Sea

This family-run Armenian-Lebanese restaurant transports diners to the heart of 1966 Beirut with its exquisite seafood and mezze offerings. Located at the edge of J1 Beach, Almayass features an inviting indoor space filled with charming trinkets and an outdoor terrace with stunning views. It's the second UAE location for this beloved brand.

• Facilities: Indoor dining, outdoor terrace, and a cozy ambiance.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily 12 PM - 1 AM

Chouchou

Experience the essence of St Tropez at Chouchou, touted as Dubai’s first private members beach house. This chic French beach club spans two floors and features a pool, salon, and several bars. While the downstairs area welcomes all, the upstairs remains exclusive to members. Pool day rates are Dhs250 on weekdays and Dhs350 on weekends for adults, with child rates at Dhs100 for under-14s.

• Facilities: Members-only lounge, pool area, multiple bars, and dining space.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily 9 AM - 2 AM

Bâoli

Hailing from Cannes, Bâoli offers a sprawling 2,000 square meters of luxury. This vibrant venue features a beach, pool, and a petal-shaped sun deck. Relaxation reigns during the day, but as the sun sets, the energy shifts to an exciting nightlife vibe. Access to the pool and beach is Dhs500, with Dhs400 redeemable on weekdays and Dhs600 on weekends.

• Facilities: Swimming pool, sun deck, sunset lounge, and a speakeasy bar.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily 10 AM - 1 AM

African Queen

Revived by the founders of Beefbar, African Queen brings exotic fine dining to Dubai from its French Riviera roots. Expect Mediterranean dishes infused with African flavors, all served in a casual yet stylish setting. Access to the pool is Dhs350 non-redeemable, while beach beds are available for Dhs300.

• Facilities: Restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, pool area, and beach access.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily 12 PM - Sunset (Pool and Beach); 12 PM - 12 AM (Restaurant)

Sakhalin

This Michelin-starred restaurant from Moscow introduces a unique blend of Mediterranean and Asian cuisines to Dubai, offering a memorable dining experience in both the upscale restaurant and a laid-back beach setting. Dishes are crafted by star chef Vladimir Mukhin, ensuring a culinary adventure.

• Facilities: Upscale dining, beachside seating, and an exquisite cocktail menu.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily 12 PM - 12 AM

LÚNICO

Infusing Spanish elegance into the culinary scene, Lúnico offers fine dining and late-night bar experiences inspired by the phases of the moon. It promises haute cuisine and master mixology in a sleek and sophisticated setting.

• Facilities: Fine dining restaurant, bar area, and stylish decor.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily from 6 PM

Kaimana Beach

Experience the vibrant spirit of Polynesia at Kaimana Beach, featuring an indoor-outdoor restaurant and a lively pool area adorned with canary yellow loungers. With a menu highlighting Asian-Polynesian flavors, pool loungers are Dhs250 and beach sunbeds Dhs300, both fully redeemable.

• Facilities: Indoor and outdoor dining, tiki-inspired decor, and a central swimming pool.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Beach 12 PM - 7 PM; Restaurant 12 PM - 1 AM

La Baia by the Beach

Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, La Baia offers a taste of Southern Italy with its charming decor and delightful live performances. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or by the pool, with access starting at Dhs300 on weekdays and Dhs350 on weekends, half of which can be credited towards food and drinks.

• Facilities: Pool area, beach access, live entertainment, and Italian dining.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Daily from 12 PM

Ninive Beach

This sophisticated seaside oasis began its journey in DIFC and now brings Middle Eastern flavors to the beach. With sandy loungers and a tiled pool creating a serene atmosphere, Ninive also features an open kitchen for a unique dining experience. Pool and beach rates are Dhs250 on weekdays and Dhs300 on weekends.

• Facilities: Pool, open kitchen, rooftop dining, and beach access.
• Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
• Hours: Pool 10 AM - Sunset; Restaurant 12 PM - 1 AM

Additional Tips for Your Visit to J1 Beach

1. Arrive Early: To secure the best sunbeds and cabanas, especially on weekends, consider arriving early. This will also give you time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or coffee at one of the beach clubs.

2. Reserve Ahead: Many of the restaurants and beach clubs offer reservations, which is highly recommended, particularly for larger groups or during peak times. This ensures you won't miss out on your desired dining experience.

3. Dress Code: While most venues are beach casual, some upscale restaurants may have specific dress codes. It’s always a good idea to check in advance to ensure you’re appropriately dressed.

4. Explore Multiple Venues: With twelve unique offerings, make a plan to explore different venues during your visit. Each spot has its own vibe and menu, so sampling a few can enhance your experience.

5. Stay Hydrated: Dubai's sun can be intense, especially during the summer months. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider refreshing beverages available at the bars.

6. Check for Events: Many of the beach clubs host special events, live music, or themed nights. Check their schedules ahead of time to catch any exciting happenings during your visit.

7. Family-Friendly Options: If you’re visiting with family, look for venues with kids' clubs or family-friendly amenities, such as Gigi Rigolatto or Almayass, to ensure everyone has a great time.

8. Transportation: Consider using ride-sharing apps or taxis to reach J1 Beach. Parking can be limited, especially on busy days, so leaving your car at home might be the best option.

9. Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen! With plenty of time spent outdoors, it’s essential to protect your skin from the sun.

10. Enjoy the Nightlife: Many venues at J1 Beach transition into vibrant nightlife spots. Make the most of your evening by enjoying sunset drinks and the lively atmosphere as the sun sets.

J1 Beach is not just a destination; it’s an experience that captures the essence of indulgence and relaxation. With its diverse range of facilities, from luxurious pools and private cabanas to exquisite dining options and vibrant nightlife, this new beach resort is set to become a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the pool, savor gourmet cuisine, or dance the night away, J1 Beach has it all.

On 22 July 2025, Dubai, UAE, the Emirates Group launched an extensive global talent acquisition campaign aimed at recruiting 17,300 professionals during the current financial year. This hiring goal is symbolic, matching the population size of a mid-size town or the seating capacity of 58 Airbus A350 aircraft. The recruitment drive is part of the Group’s ongoing expansion strategy, reinforcing its industry-leading position.

The available opportunities span across 350 different roles across Emirates and dnata, the two flagship businesses under the Group. Emirates, recognized as the world’s most profitable and largest international airline, along with dnata, a global leader in air and travel services, are looking to fill positions that include cabin crew, pilots, engineers, commercial and sales teams, customer service, ground handling, catering, IT, human resources, and finance. Notably, dnata alone seeks over 4,000 specialists in cargo, catering, and ground handling operations.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, emphasized that this ambitious recruitment is aligned with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and the Group’s growth trajectory. He expressed that the goal is to attract world-class talent capable of driving innovation, excellence, and the future transformation of the aviation industry. He views this initiative as an opportunity for skilled professionals to become integral to the Group’s ongoing success and expansion.

To reach potential candidates globally, the Emirates Group will hold over 2,100 open days and various talent acquisition events across 150 cities throughout the year. These events will provide a chance for prospective pilots, IT professionals, engineers, and cabin crew members to engage directly with recruitment teams and long-serving Emirates employees sharing their experiences. In addition to international outreach, Dubai-based events will focus on involving UAE national students and graduates, supporting national workforce development.

Since 2022, the Emirates Group has recruited more than 41,000 professionals, with nearly 27,000 in operational roles, contributing to the current workforce size of approximately 121,000 employees. The Group continues to be a magnet for talent around the world due to its strong brand reputation, people-centric policies, tax-free remuneration, comprehensive benefits, and esteemed training and career development programs.

In the past financial year alone, the Group received in excess of 3.7 million job applications, illustrating its global appeal. Candidates are drawn to Dubai not only for professional opportunities but also for the city’s safety, economic stability, advanced technological infrastructure, forward-looking policies, and vibrant lifestyle.

For those residing in Dubai and working for the Emirates Group, benefits are extensive, including eligibility for profit sharing, comprehensive medical and life insurance coverage, a wide array of travel benefits encompassing annual and service-related leave tickets, concessional rates for family and friends, discounted cargo rates, and membership privileges unlocking reductions at hundreds of retail, hospitality, and lifestyle destinations.

Candidates interested in joining the Emirates Group can explore available positions and upcoming recruitment events worldwide by visiting the Group’s official careers portal. This recruitment drive showcases the Emirates Group’s unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and maintaining its status as a global employer of choice, while welcoming talented professionals prepared to contribute to shaping the future of aviation.

In a landmark move to simplify travel and enhance bilateral relations, Kuwaiti citizens can now apply for Indian e-visas entirely online beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. The announcement was made by Dr. Adarsh Swaika, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, who described the launch as a “qualitative shift” in India-Kuwait engagement.

The new digital platform covers five visa categories: tourism, business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (alternative medicine including yoga and Ayurveda). Applicants no longer need to visit visa centers; all steps including application submission, document upload, and payment are completed online.

Key features of the e-visa system include:

Tourist visas valid for up to five years at a fee of $80
Other visa fees range from $40 to $80 depending on type and duration
Biometric data collection upon arrival at Indian airports
Typical processing time of three to four days, with minor technical issues possible during rollout

Ambassador Swaika emphasized that this initiative responds to a long-standing request from Kuwaiti citizens and reflects the deep historic and cultural ties between the two nations. The move also aligns with India’s broader efforts to modernize consular services and strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people connections in the Gulf region.

The e-visa allows for a variety of short-term activities such as tourism, business meetings, medical treatment (including under Indian traditional medicine systems), attending conferences, and participation in yoga or Ayurveda programs.

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and possess a return or onward ticket. The Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those who prefer traditional processing.

This digital visa rollout is expected to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Kuwait, supporting the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Indian tourism, healthcare, and business opportunities.
For more information and to apply, Kuwaiti citizens can access the official Indian e-visa portal, which provides guidance in both English and Arabic.

This development marks a significant step forward in facilitating seamless cross-border travel and enhancing the longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait.

The United Arab Emirates has officially denied rumours of a lifetime Golden Visa offer for Indians and certain other nationalities, following widespread reports and social media buzz suggesting otherwise. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) of Abu Dhabi clarified that no lifetime Golden Visa scheme exists, and all applications are processed strictly through official government channels within the UAE.

The ICP emphasized that the eligibility categories, conditions, and regulations for the Golden Visa are clearly defined by UAE laws and ministerial decisions, and no internal or external consultancy or commercial entity is authorized to handle or facilitate visa applications. This statement was issued in response to misleading reports claiming that Indians and Bangladeshis could obtain a lifetime Golden Visa for a fee of approximately ₹23 lakh (AED 100,000) through private consultancies, notably the Dubai-based Rayad Group, which later apologized for the confusion caused.

The authority warned the public against falling prey to fraudulent schemes promising simplified or guaranteed visa approvals, noting that such claims have no legal basis and were made without coordination with UAE authorities. The ICP also announced that legal action will be taken against entities spreading false information and illegally collecting money from hopeful applicants.

Applicants seeking accurate and up-to-date information on the UAE Golden Visa program are urged to rely solely on official sources, such as the ICP’s website and smart application platforms. The Golden Visa process remains transparent and regulated, with no shortcuts or lifetime residency offers outside the established legal framework.

This clarification comes amid growing enthusiasm among Indian nationals for UAE residency options, but the ICP’s firm denial aims to curb misinformation and protect applicants from exploitation.

Authorities in Oman have unveiled detailed plans to transform the old Muscat airport terminal, which spans a 50,000 square meter site, into a major leisure and commercial destination. The redevelopment will follow a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, with interested developers invited to submit Expressions of Interest by July 9, 2024.

Overseeing the project is Oman Airports Management Company, part of the Oman Investment Authority, which aims to create an upscale, mixed-use hub that integrates retail outlets, restaurants, business centers, and multi-level parking, alongside a proposed aviation museum to celebrate Oman's aviation history.

The site’s prime location at the intersection of Sultan Qaboos Highway and Muscat Expressway ensures excellent connectivity to major city landmarks, including the Oman Convention & Exhibition Center, luxury hotels, and shopping malls. The Greater Muscat Master Plan also anticipates a future metro station adjacent to the site, which is expected to drive significant visitor traffic and commercial interest.

The old terminal, which opened in 1973 and served as Oman’s main airport until 2018, will be revitalized to honor its historical significance while providing modern amenities. The aviation-themed redevelopment will include an aviation museum, shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, aiming to attract both local residents and tourists.

The project is designed to enhance Muscat’s urban landscape and contribute to the city’s economic development by drawing high-end tenants, investors, and real estate developers.

The transformation is also aligned with Oman’s National Aviation Strategy 2030, which seeks to attract $3.6 billion in airport city investments and open the sector to private and international investors. The redevelopment emphasizes sustainability by repurposing the existing terminal structure, reducing environmental impact compared to new construction.

The selection process for the developer will continue through the summer, with site visits already scheduled for interested bidders. Once completed, the new leisure hub is expected to become a landmark destination, reflecting both Oman's aviation legacy and its ambitions for future growth

Turkish Airlines has been officially crowned “Best Airline in Europe” for the tenth time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, held at the Air and Space Museum in Paris on June 17. This milestone achievement was determined by the votes of millions of passengers from over 100 nationalities, who participated in the world’s largest airline satisfaction survey between September 2024 and May 2025.

The Turkish flag carrier’s consistent excellence was further highlighted by a sweep of eight major awards, including “World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering,” “Best Airline in Southern Europe,” “Best Economy Class in Europe,” and “Best Economy Class Onboard Catering in Europe,” underscoring its dominance in both premium and economy travel markets.

Turkish Airlines’ reputation for connecting more countries than any other airline remains unmatched, supported by a rapidly expanding fleet that is expected to reach approximately 530 aircraft by the end of 2025. The airline carried 85.2 million passengers in 2024, with strong growth continuing into 2025, as January alone saw 6.8 million travelers—a rise of over 8% from the previous year.

This growth is fueled by ongoing investments in new, fuel-efficient aircraft such as Airbus A321neos and A350s, and by a robust order book of more than 270 aircraft, positioning Istanbul as a major global aviation hub.

Service innovation is another pillar of Turkish Airlines’ success. By the end of 2025, the airline plans to offer all passengers free, unlimited, high-speed in-flight connectivity, retrofitting its entire fleet with the latest technology in partnership with leading local and international suppliers. A recent Memorandum of Understanding with TCI Aircraft Interiors and Turksat highlights Turkish Airlines’ commitment to supporting Turkish innovation in aviation technology.

Sustainability also features prominently in the airline’s agenda. The “Tomorrow On-Board” initiative, launched in 2024, sets out a comprehensive framework for sustainable operations, including the use of eco-friendly inflight products and transparent communication of environmental goals. This program aims to inspire both passengers and investors, reinforcing Turkish Airlines’ pledge to reduce its environmental impact and promote a better future for the industry.

Globally, Turkish Airlines’ recognition comes in a competitive landscape, with Qatar Airways taking the title of “World’s Best Airline,” followed by Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

Despite this, Turkish Airlines’ continued accolades in Europe and its strong operational performance underscore its status as a leader in global aviation, renowned for world-class service, innovative passenger experiences, and a commitment to sustainability