Saturday, 17 May 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! 💖✨

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.

SalamAir Launches WhatsApp Service for Tickets and Boarding Passes

Published: Saturday, April 19, 2025
SalamAir Launches WhatsApp Service for Tickets and Boarding Passes

SalamAir, Oman’s prominent low-cost airline, has introduced a new WhatsApp service designed to enhance the passenger experience by delivering flight tickets and boarding passes directly through the popular messaging app. This convenient feature allows travelers to bypass the traditional hassle of sifting through emails or printing documents, making the check-in process smoother and more efficient.

For a nominal fee of 0.250 OMR per booking, customers who provide their WhatsApp number during reservation will receive automated notifications with their booking confirmation and boarding passes, although the service currently supports only one-way communication from the airline to the passenger.

This innovative move is part of SalamAir’s ongoing digital transformation efforts aimed at offering more flexible and customer-friendly travel solutions. The airline, which operates a fleet of 13 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft and conducts over 80 daily flights, plans to expand its fleet with a new A321neo arriving in early 2025 and an additional 10 Airbus A320s by 2028, supporting its growth strategy aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040.

SalamAir’s leadership, including Chief Commercial Officer Steven Allen, has emphasized the airline’s commitment to leveraging technology to provide travelers with seamless, personalized services.

Alongside the WhatsApp ticketing service, SalamAir has recently introduced other enhancements such as Express Bag and Priority services, further improving the overall travel experience. While the WhatsApp service improves convenience, passengers are responsible for ensuring their devices have adequate connectivity to receive messages.

The airline also maintains strict privacy policies to protect customer data and limits third-party sharing to essential service functions. This latest development reinforces SalamAir’s position as a trusted and innovative carrier in the Gulf region, continuing to prioritize customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

Qatar Airways Completes Starlink Upgrade for Boeing 777, Expands to Airbus A350

Published: Monday, April 07, 2025
Qatar Airways Completes Starlink Upgrade for Boeing 777, Expands to Airbus A350

Qatar Airways is rapidly advancing its Starlink satellite internet rollout, achieving significant milestones ahead of schedule. As of February 2025, the airline has equipped 30 Boeing 777 aircraft—over 50% of its fleet—with Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency internet. This progress comes just four months after launching the world’s first Starlink-enabled Boeing 777 flight in October 2024.

Originally planned to take two years, the retrofit process has been optimized to just 9.5 hours per aircraft, allowing installations to be completed overnight without disrupting operations or flight schedules. The entire Boeing 777 fleet is now expected to be fully upgraded by mid-2025, nearly a year ahead of initial projections.

Following the completion of the Boeing 777 upgrades, Qatar Airways will begin outfitting its Airbus A350 fleet with Starlink by summer 2025. The airline operates one of the largest A350 fleets globally, with 58 aircraft (A350-900s and A350-1000s), and plans to complete this phase within an accelerated timeline as well.

Additionally, Qatar Airways has announced plans to extend Starlink installations to its Boeing 787 Dreamliners and other wide-body aircraft by the end of 2025.

The service offers passengers complimentary high-speed internet from gate to gate, enabling seamless streaming, gaming, and work capabilities at cruising altitudes. Qatar Airways Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer described Starlink as a "game-changer," emphasizing the airline’s commitment to redefining in-flight connectivity standards.

The installations are being conducted at the airline’s Qatar Airways Technic MRO facility in Doha Hamad International Airport, ensuring adherence to safety and efficiency standards.

Beyond Starlink, Qatar Airways is also enhancing its inflight entertainment systems through a partnership with Thales, establishing a maintenance hub in Doha for quick repairs and support. By the end of 2025, all wide-body aircraft in Qatar Airways’ fleet are expected to feature Starlink connectivity, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in aviation technology and passenger experience innovation.