Thursday, 19 June 2025
Explore Dubai

Dubai for Lovers: Your Guide to the Ultimate Honeymoon Escape

Your Guide to the Most Enchanting Honeymoon Experiences in Dubai
Published: Friday, April 18, 2025
Dubai for Lovers: Your Guide to the Ultimate Honeymoon Escape

Embark on a romantic journey through Dubai, where luxury and unforgettable experiences await every couple. Here’s your guide to the best hotels and activities that will enhance your newly-wedded bliss!

🏰 Experience Luxury at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Indulge in the Grand Imperial Suite, a palatial retreat spanning 310 square meters. Revel in the opulence of a marble spa bathroom, regal decor, and a private sauna. Enjoy dedicated butler service and stunning sea views from the expansive terrace.

  • Facilities: Private butler, Talise Ottoman Spa, fine dining options.
  • Tip: Book spa treatments in advance for a couple's experience.
  • Location: West Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah - Dubai

🚤 Sail Away on a Private Yacht

Surprise your partner with a luxurious yacht charter, offering breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline against the turquoise Arabian Gulf. Choose from a cozy 48-foot yacht or an 86-foot vessel equipped with BBQ facilities and surround sound, perfect for celebrating special moments.

  • Facilities: Onboard catering, water sports equipment.
  • Tip: Opt for a sunset cruise for magical views and a romantic atmosphere.
  • Location: Xclusive Yachts, Dubai Marina - Dubai

🌌 Unforgettable Overnight Camping with Sand Sherpa

Experience the magic of the desert with an overnight camping adventure. Nestled in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, enjoy modern trailers, guided safaris, and a night under the stars. This eco-friendly experience is perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.

  • Facilities: Air-conditioned trailers, guided desert tours.
  • Tip: Bring warm clothing for cooler desert nights and enjoy a stargazing session.
  • Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Margham Gate - Dubai

🐪 Desert Dreams at Al Maha Resort

Stay in luxurious Bedouin-themed suites that blend seamlessly with the desert landscape. Each suite boasts a private pool and a dedicated dining deck, ensuring a tranquil escape surrounded by the beauty of nature.

  • Facilities: Private pools, fine dining restaurant, wellness treatments.
  • Tip: Book excursions in advance to personalize your stay and explore the wildlife.
  • Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai

✈️ Thrills from the Sky

For adventure-loving couples, skydiving at 13,000 feet over Palm Jumeirah is a must! Experience the adrenaline rush while taking in breathtaking views. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic helicopter tour for stunning aerial views of the city’s landmarks.

  • Facilities: Safety briefings, professional guides.
  • Tip: Check weather conditions before booking to ensure a safe experience.
  • Location: Skydive Dubai, Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina - Dubai

🌊 Swim Above the City at AURA Skypool

Relax in the world’s highest infinity pool, located on the 50th floor of Nakheel’s Palm Tower. Enjoy a stunning 360-degree view while sipping cocktails and lounging in style. This luxurious venue is perfect for a romantic afternoon.

  • Facilities: Poolside cabanas, full-service bar, light bites.
  • Tip: Arrive early to secure prime seating and enjoy the sunset.
  • Location: AURA Skypool, The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah - Dubai

🕌 Wander Through Old Dubai

Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, a glimpse into Dubai’s mid-19th century charm with preserved architecture and cultural exhibitions. Discover art galleries, cafes, and heritage sites that tell the story of the city’s rich history.

  • Facilities: Guided tours, cultural exhibitions.
  • Tip: Visit during cooler hours for a more enjoyable experience, and don’t forget your camera!
  • Location: Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai - Dubai

🦈 Dine Underwater at Al Mahara

Savor an unforgettable underwater dining experience at Ristorante L'Olivo in Burj Al Arab, surrounded by a mesmerizing aquarium. Delight in exquisite seafood dishes prepared by top chefs, creating a magical atmosphere for your celebration.

  • Facilities: Private dining options, extensive wine list, exceptional service.
  • Tip: Make a reservation well in advance to secure a prime dining experience.
  • Location: Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah St, Dubai

🎈 Hot Air Ballooning Over the Dunes

Soar above the desert with Hero Balloon Flights, enjoying a breathtaking sunrise and a luxurious breakfast in a private cabana. This unique experience allows you to witness the beauty of the desert landscape and its wildlife from above.

  • Facilities: Breakfast service, experienced guides.
  • Tip: Book early in the morning for the best views and a truly magical experience.
  • Location: Hero Balloon Flights, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve - Dubai

🏖️ Beachside Bliss at Four Seasons Resort

Discover the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, offering luxury and comfort. The Royal Suite features exquisite decor, a private spa, and direct access to the beach, making it an ideal retreat for couples.

  • Facilities: Multiple dining venues, spa services, private beach access.
  • Tip: Explore nearby restaurants for diverse culinary experiences and enjoy romantic beach walks.
  • Location: Four Seasons Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Beach - Dubai

🍽️ Waterfront Brunch at Pierchic

Indulge in a brunch at Pierchic, renowned for its seafood and stunning views of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. This dining experience combines fine cuisine with a picturesque setting, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

  • Facilities: Scenic outdoor seating, extensive wine menu.
  • Tip: Make reservations in advance, especially for weekends, to secure a table with a view.
  • Location: Pierchic, Jumeirah Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah - Dubai

🌟 Spectacular Views from Palace Downtown

Enjoy front-row seats to the enchanting Dubai Fountain show from your private terrace at the Palace Downtown. This luxurious suite offers a blend of Arabian charm and modern comfort, providing an ideal romantic getaway.

  • Facilities: Private terrace, 24-hour room service, spa services.
  • Tip: Arrive early for the best fountain views and consider a romantic dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
  • Location: Palace Downtown, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai

🧖‍♀️ Exclusive Spa Experience at Ciel Spa

Pamper yourselves at Ciel Spa, where you can book the entire spa for a unique couples’ experience. Enjoy a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate, making it the perfect way to unwind together.

  • Facilities: Private treatment rooms, outdoor relaxation areas, customized spa packages.
  • Tip: Consider a couples’ treatment for a shared experience that enhances your bond.
  • Location: Ciel Spa, SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Marasi Drive, Business Bay - Dubai

As you explore these remarkable experiences, remember that the essence of a honeymoon lies in creating beautiful memories together. Dubai offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and romance, ensuring an unforgettable start to your married life. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, dining underwater, or soaring above the desert, each moment is designed to celebrate your love.

Embark on your honeymoon adventure in Dubai, where luxury and romance await at every turn! 💖✨

HIA Introduces E-Gate Access for Children to Streamline Family Travel

Published: Monday, June 16, 2025
HIA Introduces E-Gate Access for Children to Streamline Family Travel

Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha has implemented a major upgrade to its e-gate system, now allowing children to use this advanced, automated immigration technology, significantly improving the travel experience for families.

According to Captain Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari of the Airport Passports Department, children aged seven and above and measuring between 120 and 130 centimeters in height are eligible to use the e-gates, provided their passport or Qatar ID contains a clear, system-registered photo for facial recognition.

This move is part of HIA’s broader strategy to create a smart, secure, and family-friendly travel environment, reflecting Qatar’s commitment to world-class passenger service and technological innovation.

The e-gates, located in both departures and arrivals, utilize state-of-the-art biometric technology, including iris scanning, ten-print fingerprinting, and facial recognition, enabling a fully automated process that eliminates the need for manual checks and dramatically reduces waiting times. The system is contactless, enhancing hygiene and convenience, and is especially beneficial for frequent travelers and families who can now bypass traditional immigration queues.

For young travelers, only the second-row e-gates are operational, and airport staff are present to assist families, ensuring a smooth and safe process. Parents or legal guardians must secure travel authorization for their children via the Metrash mobile application before travel, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and seamless processing at the e-gate.

Officials recommend that children pass through the e-gate first, followed by their parents, to maintain an orderly and safe flow, particularly during busy travel periods.

The introduction of e-gate access for children is a strategic step in Qatar’s vision to become a global leader in smart travel and digital transformation. HIA, recognized as the World’s Best Airport in 2024, continues to set new standards in passenger convenience and efficiency, with the e-gate system standing out as a key innovation that supports faster, safer, and more efficient border control.

If any biometric scan fails, airport staff are readily available to assist, and travelers can be directed to manual immigration if necessary, ensuring that the process remains smooth for all passengers.

This initiative not only streamlines the immigration process but also underscores HIA’s dedication to leveraging technology for a superior travel experience, making it easier and more enjoyable for families to travel through one of the world’s leading airports.

Qatar Airways to Showcase Latest Aircraft and Innovations at 55th Paris Air Show

Published: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Qatar Airways to Showcase Latest Aircraft and Innovations at 55th Paris Air Show

Qatar Airways is preparing for a prominent appearance at the 55th Paris Air Show, which will take place from June 16 to 22, 2025, at the Parc des Expositions de Paris-Le Bourget, the world’s largest aerospace event. The airline will join 2,500 exhibitors from 48 countries, with more than 150 aircraft on display and 3,000 attendees expected, underscoring the global significance of the show.

One of the headline attractions from Qatar Airways is the UEFA Champions League livery Boeing 777, specially dedicated to Paris Saint-Germain’s triumphant return as European champions. This aircraft not only celebrates the airline’s partnership with PSG but also highlights its commitment to sports and global connectivity.

In a major industry milestone, Qatar Executive—the airline’s private jet charter division—will present the Gulfstream G700, marking the first time this ultra-long-haul, fuel-efficient jet is operated in commercial aviation. The G700 is renowned for its exceptionally spacious cabin and advanced technology, reflecting Qatar Airways’ focus on luxury and innovation in private air travel.

Qatar Airways will also unveil the Qsuite Next Gen, the latest version of its award-winning business class product. Show attendees will be able to step inside the reimagined Qsuite and experience a variety of customisation options designed to offer a highly personalised and premium journey.

A highlight of the airline’s digital innovation is Sama, the world’s first AI-powered cabin crew, now enhanced to communicate in French, English, and Arabic. Sama will be available via WhatsApp, providing real-time, multilingual support for flight bookings, destination recommendations, and general passenger inquiries. This expansion is expected to connect with millions of French-speaking travelers and streamline customer interactions across key markets.

Visitors can further immerse themselves in the Qatar Airways experience at the specially designed L’Univers Qatar Airways Pavilion, located in front of Gate 0 near Hall 5. The pavilion features interactive exhibits, the latest Economy Class and Diptyque Business Class amenity kits, bespoke dining ware, and a celebration of PSG’s iconic victories. Guests can unlock exclusive gifts by scanning codes at key touchpoints, deepening their engagement with the airline’s offerings.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, emphasized the airline’s dedication to innovation and diversity, noting that the Paris Air Show provides a unique opportunity to connect with the global aviation community and showcase products that define the Qatar Airways passenger experience.

The airline’s presence at the Paris Air Show comes on the heels of a record-breaking financial year, with Qatar Airways Group reporting its strongest profits to date—QAR 7.85 billion (US$2.15 billion) for the 2024/25 fiscal year, reflecting its robust growth and leadership in the aviation sector.

With several new offerings yet to be revealed, Qatar Airways’ participation at the Paris Air Show is expected to set new benchmarks in passenger experience, digital innovation, and luxury travel, reinforcing its position as a global aviation leader

Ras Al Khaimah Airport to Launch UAE’s First Vertiport, Pioneering Sustainable Air Mobility

Published: Saturday, May 10, 2025
Ras Al Khaimah Airport to Launch UAE’s First Vertiport, Pioneering Sustainable Air Mobility

In a bold leap toward environmental leadership, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RAK Airport) is integrating cutting-edge sustainable technologies as part of a major terminal expansion—becoming the first airport in the Middle East and Asia to adopt DYNAES’s revolutionary thermodynamic energy efficiency system.

This milestone initiative is more than a technical upgrade; it’s a statement of intent. With Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism and economy rapidly accelerating, airport authorities are ensuring that growth goes hand-in-hand with sustainability. The move reflects a broader commitment to reducing environmental impact while meeting rising air travel demands.

Cooling Innovation, Warming Planet's Hope

Recognizing that air conditioning systems account for some of the highest energy consumption in airport operations, RAK Airport—guided by consultants ARTELIA Airport and STG Contracting—has turned to DYNAES’s breakthrough technology, first unveiled at Dubai COP28. The system’s installation in the terminal extension marks a regional first.

“Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Civil Aviation, highlighted the vision behind the move: “RAK Airport joined the Retrofit Energy Program in 2023. Now, we are proving how even older infrastructure can lead the way in sustainability.”

Developed alongside leading scientific institutions including Mines Paris PSL, TÜV, and CNRS, DYNAES’s patented system enhances thermal performance without increasing compressor power or requiring complex electronics. It works by optimizing the interaction between refrigerants and lubricating oils in air conditioning systems—delivering improved reliability, maintainability, and energy savings.

Professor Assaad Zoughaib of Mines Paris PSL called the innovation “a major scientific breakthrough in the field of thermodynamics.”

Big Impact, Low Footprint

The environmental potential is massive. If deployed globally, DYNAES’s system could slash carbon emissions by up to 7%—equivalent to the total emissions from the internet and air traffic combined. At RAK Airport, the technology is supported by seasoned partners Airchal and Takyeef Factory, ensuring a strong foundation for its regional rollout.

This technology boost also aligns with RAK’s broader goals of economic diversification and sustainable development. With a 28% rise in passenger traffic last year, the airport is rapidly scaling up. Recent route expansions include Air Arabia’s new service to Uzbekistan and planned connections to Kenya, Georgia, and India via IndiGo.

A Model for Green Growth

RAK Airport’s ambitious blend of infrastructure growth and environmental responsibility is setting a new regional standard for sustainable aviation. As the airport continues to grow as a vital hub for tourism and trade, it is doing so with an eye firmly fixed on the future—one where economic and environmental priorities go hand in hand.

Ras Al Khaimah may be a smaller Emirate, but with RAK Airport leading the charge in clean technology, it’s making a big impact in global sustainability conversations.

Etihad Airways Joins IATA’s Turbulence Aware Programme for Safer, Smoother Flights

Published: Saturday, May 03, 2025
Etihad Airways Joins IATA’s Turbulence Aware Programme for Safer, Smoother Flights

Etihad Airways has officially become a participant in IATA’s Turbulence Aware initiative, bringing its entire fleet-comprising nearly 100 Airbus and Boeing aircraft-into the programme. By doing so, every Etihad flight will now automatically feed anonymized, real-time turbulence data into a global network.

This development is set to further enrich the world’s largest database on in-flight turbulence, empowering pilots and dispatchers to make better-informed decisions about flight routes, thereby enhancing safety, comfort, and operational efficiency for all passengers and crew.

The Turbulence Aware programme is an aviation industry-wide collaboration that aggregates and shares precise, up-to-the-minute turbulence readings-known as Eddy Dissipation Rate (EDR) data-from aircraft operated by participating airlines, business aviation, and ground-based systems.

All the information is processed within seconds, ensuring that pilots, dispatchers, and operational teams can access the latest turbulence updates through their own flight planning tools, third-party apps, or IATA’s MET Viewer, a web-based interface that visualizes turbulence in vivid detail, including intensity, location, altitude, and relevant weather patterns.

The advantages of this programme are far-reaching. By providing objective, real-time turbulence data, Turbulence Aware helps flight crews steer clear of hazardous weather, uphold the highest safety standards, and reduce the likelihood of injuries among passengers and crew-an area of concern that remains a leading cause of in-flight incidents.

Furthermore, optimized routing supported by the programme leads to significant fuel savings, lower CO₂ emissions, and reduced operational expenses. The predictive power of the data also aids in minimizing aircraft wear and tear, which in turn helps decrease maintenance costs and increase fleet reliability.

With more than 2,600 aircraft now actively contributing to the data pool-and over 54 million turbulence reports generated in 2024 alone-the programme’s reach and data quality are rapidly expanding as additional airlines join the effort. Etihad’s involvement is especially significant, as it extends the programme’s coverage across the Middle East and all five continents it serves.

This ensures that pilots and dispatchers worldwide have access to the most accurate and timely turbulence information, supporting safer, smoother, and more efficient flights for everyone.

Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Interim Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, highlighted the airline’s strong commitment to safety, stating, “Having access to real-time, accurate turbulence data allows our pilots to make better decisions, resulting in smoother and more comfortable journeys for our guests.”

Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East, also welcomed Etihad’s participation, emphasizing that timely, reliable turbulence data is key to improving flight safety and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

In essence, by joining the Turbulence Aware programme, Etihad Airways is not only reaffirming its dedication to safety and operational excellence but also playing a vital role in a global, collaborative movement to make air travel safer, more comfortable, and more sustainable for everyone involved.

Qatar Airways Unveils Culturally Immersive VR Experience at ATM Dubai 2025

Published: Saturday, May 03, 2025
Qatar Airways Unveils Culturally Immersive VR Experience at ATM Dubai 2025

Qatar Airways, acclaimed as the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax in 2024, made a powerful statement on the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai 2025, unveiling a suite of industry-leading digital and experiential innovations designed to redefine the future of air travel. At the heart of the airline’s showcase was the debut of Sama, the world’s first AI-powered digital human cabin crew, now with advanced Arabic-speaking capabilities.

Sama, whose name means ‘sky’ in Arabic, is powered by UneeQ-a New Zealand-based leader in intelligent digital human interfaces-and is designed to engage with passengers in both Arabic dialects and Modern Standard Arabic, offering a uniquely personalized and culturally attuned travel experience.

Sama’s new role extends beyond ATM, as she is now accessible across Qatar Airways’ digital ecosystem, including the award-winning mobile app and the immersive QVerse web platform. Travelers can interact with Sama through voice and chat, receiving real-time assistance with flight bookings, destination recommendations, and personalized itineraries.

Sama’s AI is also emotionally aware, capable of interpreting user moods to suggest the perfect holiday destination, marking a significant leap in the field of emotionally intelligent AI assistants. Beyond the booking process, Sama has become a social media ambassador, engaging a global audience on Instagram (@SamaOnTheMove) with travel tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights into the airline’s operations, further humanizing the brand and connecting with digitally native travelers.

Qatar Airways’ ATM stand also introduced The ORCHARD, a hyper-realistic virtual recreation of the iconic indoor garden at Hamad International Airport, allowing visitors to explore and preview the tranquil, nature-inspired environment in immersive VR. This experience is designed to make the unfamiliar feel familiar, setting a new standard for digital engagement in travel.

A major highlight was the Qsuite Next Gen, the latest evolution of Qatar Airways’ award-winning business class. The new suites feature fully customizable Quad and Companion Suites, movable 4K OLED Panasonic Astrova in-flight entertainment screens, increased dining space, taller digitally controlled privacy dividers, ambient lighting, and a dedicated ‘Make My Bed’ button for a 5-star turn-down service.

These innovations are set to debut on the Boeing B777-9 aircraft, offering passengers unprecedented levels of comfort, privacy, and connectivity. Complementing the Qsuite Next Gen was a multi-sensory pod, which brought the suite’s atmosphere to life through visuals, sound, scent, and motion, providing a fully immersive preview of the onboard experience.

Qatar Airways also announced expanded flight frequencies to key destinations, including Dar Es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Entebbe, Tokyo Narita, Maputo–Durban, Larnaca, Trabzon, Sharjah, Manchester, Madrid, Lisbon, and London Heathrow for the peak summer season. In parallel, the airline signed new Memoranda of Understanding with Visit Maldives and Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism to boost visitor arrivals and explore new tourism promotion opportunities via Hamad International Airport.

Additionally, the airline revealed that more than half of its Boeing 777 fleet now features Starlink’s high-speed Wi-Fi, with plans to equip all wide-body aircraft by the end of 2025, ensuring seamless connectivity for passengers.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, emphasized the airline’s commitment to innovation and regional relevance: “We are proud to return to ATM with industry innovations that reflect the diversity and spirit of our region. Sama, The ORCHARD in VR, Qsuite Next Gen, and our multi-sensory pod are all part of how Qatar Airways is shaping a future of travel that is not only digital, but also deeply human.”

Visitors can experience these innovations firsthand at Qatar Airways’ stand ME1420, located between Halls 3 and 4 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, until May 1, 2025. Through these advancements, Qatar Airways continues to set new benchmarks in digital transformation, personalized service, and customer engagement, reaffirming its leadership in the global aviation industry.