Armin van Buuren to Headline Exclusive Show at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah

The stunning desert backdrop of The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert will host an exclusive show headlined by the legendary DJ Armin van Buuren on Thursday, October 24. This intimate event, limited to just 1,000 guests, marks the launch of the new event platform, Seven Wonders.

Armin van Buuren, renowned for his sold-out performances at super clubs and festivals worldwide, will present his groundbreaking show, Pillars of Creation. This unique performance intertwines sound, light, and immersive storytelling, transforming his high-energy sets into a narrative exploring themes of creation and evolution, all set against the breathtaking desert landscape of Ras Al Khaimah.

Doors open at 7:30 PM, with the show commencing at 8:30 PM. Ticket options range from the basic ‘Wander Pass’ for Dhs1,200, which includes general admission, gourmet bites, and unlimited premium drinks, to VIP passes starting at Dhs4,500, offering access to a special viewing deck. Guests wishing to stay overnight at the resort can secure rates from Dhs3,700 per night.

For local attendees, shuttle services will be available from major hotels in Ras Al Khaimah, including Sofitel The Palm and Rixos JBR.

As the inaugural event for Seven Wonders, this concert sets the stage for a series of spectacular shows in 2025. The upcoming events will feature seven global superstars performing at seven unique outdoor locations throughout Ras Al Khaimah over seven weeks, each surrounded by the region’s natural beauty, from golden beaches to stunning mountain views. While the artist lineup remains a secret for now, attendees can anticipate thrilling performances from some of the biggest names in music.

Etihad Rail Expands with New Station in Fujairah, Enhancing UAE Travel

The UAE is making significant strides in improving travel accessibility across the country, with the expansion of the Dubai Metro and the development of Etihad Rail. Recently, Etihad Rail announced the establishment of its latest passenger station in Sakamkam, Fujairah. This station is the second confirmed site for the Etihad Rail network, following an announcement for another station in Sharjah’s University City. This development was highlighted by Adhraa Almansoori, Director of Public Policy and Sustainability at Etihad Rail, during the Global Rail Conference in Abu Dhabi.

In addition to these stations, further locations have been identified, including sites behind the Jumeirah Golf Estates metro station on the Red Line in Dubai, between Dalma Mall and the Musaffah bus station in Abu Dhabi, as well as within Fujairah’s Al-Hilal City development. Attendees at the conference also had the opportunity to view a sample passenger train compartment, featuring luxurious grey leather seats adorned with the Etihad Rail logo. The finished trains will boast a viewing gallery with reclining chairs and large windows, allowing passengers to take in the stunning landscapes.

Etihad Rail’s first stage commenced in 2016, with the second stage beginning in 2020. Once fully operational, the network will stretch approximately 1,200 kilometers, connecting all seven emirates and 11 cities across the UAE. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, significantly reducing travel times while offering beautiful views along the route.

Sustainability is a core focus of Etihad Rail, which is committed to preserving the UAE’s natural environment. The project aims to maintain the region’s flora and fauna, ensuring that travelers can appreciate the diverse landscapes during their journeys.

Although an official launch date for passenger services has not yet been announced, it is anticipated that operations will commence by 2030, with plans to transport an estimated 36 million passengers annually, revolutionizing travel in the UAE.

Hotel Prices Surge as Coldplay Gears Up for Abu Dhabi Concerts in January 2025

Abu Dhabi is set to welcome Coldplay for four performances in 2025, as part of their acclaimed Music of the Spheres tour. Scheduled at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, these concerts represent the band’s only performances in the region next year.

Tickets went on sale on September 25, 2024, and both nights are anticipated to sell out swiftly due to high demand. In light of the concerts, local hotels are experiencing a surge in bookings. Properties near the stadium, including the Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel, Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, and The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Canal, are already fully booked.

For fans seeking accommodations, the Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Center remains available, with rates at AED 1,148 per night, significantly higher than the previous weekend’s rate of AED 230. On January 12, Aloft Abu Dhabi offers rooms for AED 1,665, a steep increase from AED 347 the prior weekend.

The demand for tickets was so intense that a second date was quickly added following the announcement of the first show. Adding to the excitement, Elyanna, a rising star in the music scene, will open for Coldplay. She previously performed with the band at Glastonbury 2024, ensuring that both nights promise an unforgettable experience for fans.

Stormzy to Headline Emirates Dubai 7s Festival in December

The Emirates Dubai 7s festival is gearing up for an electrifying finale on December 1, as renowned British rapper Stormzy is set to headline the closing night of this much-anticipated three-day event. This year’s festival promises an exciting blend of sports and music, culminating in a performance by one of the biggest names in the industry.

Stormzy, who last graced the UAE stage at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2021, will also participate in a unique public padel tennis tournament with friends on November 30. This exciting addition offers fans a rare opportunity to see the artist showcase his athleticism while engaging with the crowd in a different setting. Festival director Mathew Tait emphasized the significance of Stormzy’s involvement, stating, “We couldn’t think of anyone better to close our biggest festival to date.”

The Emirates Dubai 7s is renowned for its fun-filled atmosphere, catering to diverse interests, from thrilling sports matches to captivating musical performances. Tait expressed his enthusiasm, indicating that Stormzy’s presence will undoubtedly elevate the experience for festival-goers. “The Dubai 7s is always a fun-packed weekend with something for everyone,” he noted, inviting fans to stay tuned for more exciting announcements leading up to the event.

As the date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a memorable conclusion to this year’s festival, blending high-energy sports with a sensational musical performance from Stormzy.