Islamic New Year – July 7th Holiday for Private Sector

 It was announced on Tuesday that July 7 will be a paid holiday for private sector employees in the UAE. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) declared this holiday, which falls on a Sunday, in celebration of Hijri New Year. On the Islamic calendar, this corresponds to Muharram 1, marking the beginning of the new Hijri year 1446 AH.

 

 

Other countries, such as Oman, have also declared a holiday for the Hijri New Year on July 7 for both public and private sector employees, resulting in a long weekend for government workers and private sector companies that follow a five-day work week.

In the UAE, residents have a few more holidays before the year’s end, including one for the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday and another for National Day, which will also provide a long weekend and mark the year’s last official holiday.

According to the 2024 holiday list announced by the UAE Cabinet, these public holidays are in addition to the 30 annual leave days that employees are entitled to each year.

 

Dubai Al Maktoum Airport set to be world’s largest

 

Dubai, renowned for its futuristic and innovative approach, has recently started a groundbreaking airport project aimed at creating the world’s largest capacity airport upon its completion, as per the recent announcement made by its ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The government has approved the designs for the new passenger terminals at the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport. With a bold vision to establish a complete city around the airport in Dubai South, Sheikh Mohammed envisions it as not just an airport but as the “world’s airport, its port, its urban hub, and a new global centre.”

 

The Al Maktoum International Airport project, costing approximately AED 128 billion, is a strategic initiative of the Dubai Aviation Corporation.

 
The new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport is set to be five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport, accommodating up to 260 million passengers annually. Over the next decade, all operations at Dubai International will gradually shift to the new airport, which will feature five parallel runways and 400 terminal or aircraft gates. Utilizing cutting-edge aviation technologies, it will host leading global companies in the logistics and air transport sectors. The project includes building an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, providing housing for a million people. Once completed, it will be the new home for Emirates, Flydubai, and their airline partners. According to Emirates chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al-Maktoum, this ambitious project aims to secure a sustainable and progressive future for generations to come.
 

The move “further solidifies Dubai’s position as a leading aviation hub on the world stage,” stated Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, as quoted by the Dubai Media Office.

 

 

 

O Beach Dubai opening date coming soon

 Exciting news for dance music enthusiasts! O Beach, renowned from Ibiza, is making its grand debut on the shores of Dubai Marina. O Beach Dubai promises to be an extraordinary beach club featuring world-renowned DJs, luxurious amenities, and stunning views perfect for Instagram.

Scheduled for a winter opening, this new beach club will bring the essence of Ibiza to Dubai. Spanning 55,000 square feet, the venue will offer both outdoor and indoor areas, complete with cabanas, VIP sections, sunbeds, and a 4,000-square-foot swimming pool. International DJs will provide top-notch entertainment.

 

The Iconic Ibiza Venue is set to make a splash with Dubai Residents

At O Beach Dubai, the restaurant will feature stunning 360-degree views encompassing the city skyline and beach, stretching from Ain Dubai to the Arabian Gulf. The menu will showcase culinary delights inspired by global cuisines, complemented by a shisha lounge.

Tony Truman, Co-Founder of O Beach Ibiza, expressed enthusiasm about the venture: “Bringing O Beach to Dubai is an incredibly thrilling endeavor for us. Our goal is to provide a distinctive and unparalleled day club experience, bringing the essence of Ibiza to this vibrant city. With a decade of experience in Ibiza perfecting the pool party scene, we look forward to welcoming everyone to experience O Beach Dubai.”

O Beach in Ibiza has established itself over more than a decade on Carrer des Molí, known for its extravagant pool parties. The restaurant is renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired and fusion cuisine. Exciting upcoming music nights include House in Paradise, KISSTORY, and Soul Heaven.

Initially slated to open at Palm West Beach, the venue has now shifted to a new location in JBR.

For beach club enthusiasts, get ready to soak up the sun and sand with FACT’s picks of the best beach clubs in Dubai. Remember your sunblock and sunglasses

 

 

 

The New Downtown of Sharjah Megaproject

Sharjah’s largest-ever project is set to accommodate a staggering 75,000 residents by 2028. Construction is already in full swing on Aljada, a monumental megaproject that promises to redefine the landscape of the emirate.

Spanning across 24 million square feet, Aljada will reshape Sharjah with a plethora of amenities, including hotels, schools, a shopping mall, a business district, an observation deck, and an entertainment complex designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, among other features.

 
 

Here is what we know

The futuristic development, strategically situated just seven minutes from Sharjah Airport and 20 minutes from Dubai Airport, is slated for completion by 2028. According to The National, this self-sustained city is anticipated to house an impressive 75,000 residents.

Dubbed as the “downtown of new Sharjah,” Aljada is an innovative urban project featuring over 250,000 square meters of green space and five kilometers of parks.Guests will have a selection of four hotels to choose from, including three under Emaar Hospitality: Vida Aljada, Rove Aljada, and Address Aljada.

Additional facilities will include a Bounce trampoline park, a wellness district, a convention centre, a tree-lined boulevard, Sharjah’s largest gym with an elevated running track around it, an observation deck, and a showpiece water feature.

Since construction started back in 2018, a number of residential towers and facilities within the Aljada community are already open to the public and residents. For example, visitors can check out the outdoor drive-in cinema, a skate park, gyms, shops, swimming pools, parks, a farmers market, cycle paths, and a food district.

For now, Aljada is accessible by car only but public buses are set to stop at Aljada in the future. We can’t wait to see this exciting new project develop.

Dubai Mall parking is no longer Free

Dubai Mall parking is now no longer free.

Starting Monday, July 1, 2024, the new paid parking system is officially in place.

Announced in December 2023, Dubai Mall has partnered with toll gate provider Salik to introduce charges for parking spaces.

 

The toll gate company’s technology is facilitating a barrier-free parking experience for mall customers.

This includes automatic fee collection for ticketless parking, utilizing vehicle plate recognition to deduct fees directly from Salik user accounts.

Additionally, details on Dubai Mall parking fees have now been disclosed.

 

The Breakdown

Dubai Mall parking remains free for the first four hours on Monday to Thursday, and for the first six hours from Friday to Sunday. Beyond these times, the following charges apply:

Weekdays (Monday to Thursday):

  • 4 – 5 hours: Dhs40
  • 5 – 6 hours: Dhs60
  • 6 – 7 hours: Dhs80
  • 8 – 12 hours: Dhs100
  • 12 – 24 hours: Dhs500
  • 24 hours and beyond: Dhs1,000

Weekends (Friday to Sunday):

  • 6 – 7 hours: Dhs80
  • 7 – 8 hours: Dhs100
  • 8 – 12 hours: Dhs200
  • 12 – 24 hours: Dhs500
  • 24 hours and beyond: Dhs1,000

These rates apply to Grand parking, Cinema parking, and Fashion parking areas. Zabeel and Fountain Views parking areas will continue to offer free parking for now.

People of determination, public service providers, and valet drop-offs are exempt from Dubai Mall parking charges.

Ibrahim Sultan Al Haddad, CEO and board member of Salik, emphasized that the aim is to provide sustainable and smart mobility solutions in Dubai. He highlighted that Salik’s technology allows for a seamless customer experience without gates or barriers at Dubai Mall, contributing to reduced congestion and traffic. Future plans include expanding this initiative to other locations across the city.

Remote working at Dubai Metro

Dubai commuters now have a unique workspace option conveniently located within Burjuman Metro Station. Named WO-RK, this innovative workspace offers brightly colored, functional office spaces designed for professionals on the move.

Operated by The Co-Spaces in partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority Dubai (RTA), WO-RK opened its doors to the public on Tuesday, June 25. This initiative aims to provide commuters with a productive environment right inside one of Dubai’s busiest metro stations.

For those looking to work on the go, WO-RK offers flexible pricing plans:

  • Day Pass: Dh35 per day
  • Part-Time Membership: Dh200 per month (allowing 30 hours of usage per month)
  • Full-Time Membership: Dh650 per month with unlimited hours

The workspace accommodates up to 100 people/seats and operates from 8 am to 8 pm on weekdays. Additionally, amenities include a pantry with complimentary water and coffee, ensuring a comfortable and productive work experience for users.

Shahzad Bhatti, founder of The Co-Spaces, highlighted the convenience and affordability of WO-RK, stating, “We aim to provide a flexible workspace solution that meets the needs of Dubai’s dynamic professionals. With our current promotion and competitive rates, WO-RK is set to become a go-to destination for commuters seeking a productive work environment.”

WO-RK at Burjuman Metro Station represents a forward-thinking initiative by RTA and The Co-Spaces, catering to the evolving work habits of Dubai’s workforce. Whether for a quick day’s work or regular use, WO-RK offers a convenient solution for professionals looking to maximize their time while on the move in the city.

UAE TEMPERATURES SOAR THIS WEEK PAST 50

The UAE is currently grappling with an extreme heat wave, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in several areas of Abu Dhabi.

This unprecedented heat wave has lasted several days, with temperatures consistently ranging from 49 to 50 degrees Celsius.

 

 

While mid-July to late August is usually the hottest period in the UAE, this year’s severe heat has arrived earlier than anticipated, heightening concerns about climate change and its effects.

Residents are urged to take precautions, such as staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities.

Authorities have issued warnings and are implementing measures to ensure public safety, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly and children.

Ibiza Hotspot Ushuaia to open in Dubai

Dubai’s nightlife is about to get a massive upgrade with the arrival of one of the world’s most renowned party destinations. Ibiza’s iconic Ushuaïa is coming to Dubai, promising to bring its legendary hedonistic atmosphere to the UAE.

Through a strategic partnership with Studio A by Addmind Hospitality, the masterminds behind some of Dubai’s top party spots, Ushuaïa will debut as the Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience. Located at the vibrant Dubai Harbour, this new venue is set to become a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife.

Partygoers won’t have to wait long to experience this legendary venue. The Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience is slated to open this winter, just in time to heat up the cooler season with its electrifying parties and world-class entertainment.

With its roots in Ibiza, Ushuaïa is famous for its open-air parties, cutting-edge music, and unparalleled atmosphere. The Dubai Harbour location promises to uphold this tradition, offering a unique blend of Mediterranean vibes and Dubai’s opulent flair.

The addition of Ushuaïa to Dubai’s nightlife scene marks a significant milestone, further cementing the city’s status as a global party capital. Fans of the iconic brand can expect the same high-energy environment and superstar DJs that made Ushuaïa a household name in Ibiza.

As the countdown begins, Dubai’s party enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the grand opening, ready to dance the night away at what is sure to be one of the most exciting venues in the city.

 
 

Youtuber Movlogs links with Andrew Tate for boxing training

In a surprising turn of events, YouTube sensation Mo Vlogs has teamed up with controversial internet personality and former kickboxing champion Andrew Tate to prepare for his upcoming boxing match at Social Knockout 3 this July.

Mo Vlogs, known for his luxurious lifestyle and car vlogs, has been documenting his rigorous training regime on his social media channels. His journey took a significant leap when he traveled to Romania to train under the tutelage of Andrew Tate. Tate, a four-time world kickboxing champion, has been sharing his expertise and insights with Mo, pushing him to new heights in preparation for the highly anticipated event.

The collaboration between Mo Vlogs and Andrew Tate has garnered substantial attention online, with fans eagerly following their training sessions. Mo Vlogs shared, “Training with Andrew has been an intense experience. His knowledge and skills in the ring are unmatched, and I’m learning a lot. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’ve been working on at Social Knockout 3.”

Andrew Tate, who has faced his share of controversies, expressed his enthusiasm about working with Mo Vlogs. “Mo has a lot of potential, and it’s great to see him taking his training seriously. We’re working hard to make sure he’s ready for the fight,” said Tate.

Social Knockout 3, set to take place in July, is already shaping up to be a major event in the influencer boxing scene. Mo Vlogs’ match, in particular, has drawn significant attention due to his large fanbase and the high-profile training partnership with Tate.

As the countdown to Social Knockout 3 continues, fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Mo Vlogs performs in the ring with the expertise and guidance of Andrew Tate behind him. This match promises to be one of the highlights of the event, showcasing the blend of entertainment and athleticism that has come to define influencer boxing.

 
 

Ronaldo buys Dubai Land for 98 Million AED

 

Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Saudi Al-Nassr, has purchased a $30 million plot of land in Dubai. The property, located in the exclusive Jumeirah Bay area known as the “Island of the Rich,” will be the site of a lavish new palace for Ronaldo and his family.

Ronaldo, his partner Georgina, and their five children are planning to move into the new residence once it is built. Jumeirah Bay Island, as reported by the Spanish newspaper Marca, boasts a variety of upscale amenities, including a private yacht club, fitness centers, fine dining restaurants, and beach clubs. These features will offer the family and their friends a private and luxurious lifestyle in Dubai, complete with all the necessary facilities for comfortable and high-end living.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s new palace in Jumeirah Bay is the latest addition to his extensive property portfolio, which includes homes in Lisbon, Madrid, New York, and Madeira.

Earlier this year, Ronaldo also purchased a mansion on Palm Island in Dubai, specifically in the area known as Billionaires Island, as reported by Bloomberg.