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49 random amusing facts about Dubai and the UAE

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49 random amusing facts about Dubai and the UAE

In addition to the obvious reasons, here are 49 more amusing and interesting facts why the country is well-loved by locals and expats alike.

  1. Everything is the best, tallest, largest. As of November 2020, the UAE is holding 425 Guinness world records – that’s 425 superlatives.
  2. Expats outnumber locals. Emiratis make up only 11.48% of the population. The top expat populations are Indian, Pakistani, Filipino.
  3. Districts and zones are named as “city of things,” I mean, Internet City, Media City, Studio City, Knowledge Village
  4. When giving directions, Google map isn’t enough. “front-side, back-side” is a thing.
    Building names and street names aren’t popularly used
  5. Google maps keep changing every month. There’s always something new. That’s why road detours and constructions are common
  6. Police use Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Maserati, and other fancy cars for patrol cars.
  7. Small groceries can deliver even your one-dirham onion order.
  8. There are more nationalities here than in the UN.
  9. If you miss an exit on the highway, you might end up in Abu Dhabi.
  10. No security guards in malls and many public places. Though recently, they were assigned on entrances to check body temperature.
  11. Police have no guns (well, at least not on display). Cameras and radar are already very helpful to them.
  12. You can leave your car unlocked, and you’ll still find it there.
  13. Mohammed is every boy’s name.
  14. There are indoor rainforest, indoor scuba diving and indoor ski – because it’s hot out there for most of the year.
  15. Rain can be scheduled because of cloudseeding. You literally can wish for rain.
  16. Rain (I mean, drizzle) always becomes a trending topic on social media. Average rainfall each year is only between 5-10 times.
  17. You can get discounts on traffic fines on special occasions like Eid or UAE National Day.
  18. We celebrate Christmas, Diwali and Ramadan freely. Respect and tolerance is encouraged by the leadership.
  19. You visit the doctor and you walk out with a bag of meds. Because you have a good health insurance.
  20. The royalties are active on Instagram and Twitter – talk about real influence.
  21. All places are airconditioned – even the bus stops.
  22. Multicultural workplace – There’s always a cultural walkthrough on every lunch break.
  23. Public transport is run by the government. Making it seamless and orderly.
  24. Original shawarma doesn’t have onions, contrary to what other countries do.
  25. No income tax – You still receive your whole salary. In 2018, VAT is introduced though for commodities.
  26. Flowers blossom instantly on the roadside. Due to the weather, these beautiful road-side ornaments are already blooming when planted – and their colors change every season.
  27. The speed of construction is like no other. Don’t ever dare compare to how it is in your home countries.
  28. You can get discounts from pharmacies. You just have to ask for it.
  29. Pork is available for non-Muslims. There are groceries with “sections for non-Muslims.” There are restaurants ‘licensed’ to sell pork dishes as well.
  30. You cannot just do charity or fundraising activities on your own. It must be regulated by authorities to avoid the bogus ones.
  31. People shifting houses is common.
  32. People barter things in exchange for grocery items.
  33. You cannot wash your car on the streets; Or pay AED 500 – 100 fine for ‘dirtying’ the streets.
  34. No stray dogs, only stray cats.
  35. No carnapping – you can leave your cars unlocked. No one dares to take it, else get imprisoned or deported.
  36. Crimes get solved fast and they’re documented in a cinematic video. There’s a near-zero crime rate in the country as well.
  37. You don’t need to learn to speak or read Arabic, though it’s always great to learn the basics.
  38. You don’t need to speak straight English. People won’t mock you for not being able to speak 100% fluent English – as long as you can communicate your message even in contexts.
  39. Fitness challenges are taken seriously. The crown prince spearheads a very active Dubai Fitness Challenge which really encourages the residents to get up on their feet and be active.
  40. Streetfoods are indoors
  41. Some small shops and businesses work 12 hours a day with a 4-hour afternoon break to take a nap – A tradition that’s still practiced by many.
  42. Man-made islands and lakes are aplenty.
  43. Pets have microchips. They also need to have passports.
  44. The fruits and vegetable section in the supermarket is a United Nations department
    I mean, banana from the Philippines, mango from Pakistan, oranges from Jordan, eggplant from Oman, and so on.
  45. Camel milk (and ice cream) and camel burger is a thing.
  46. Using that f-word on WhatsApp, Twitter and other social media can land you in jail
    Up to a year in prison + AED10,000 for swearing.
  47. People honk on the roads for chai (tea). They will get out of their way for that 1-dirham cup of tea even if they cause a traffic jam.
  48. People with disabilities are called, “People of Determination,” and almost all events and activities are inclusive for them.
  49. National Day is a big day. It is celebrated full of national pride.

For sure there are more interesting facts about this country we love. I’ll just keep it to 49 for now to honor the UAE in its National Day! 

Photo from Unsplash

49 amazing reasons why it’s not hard to love the UAE

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49 amazing reasons why it’s not hard to love the UAE

When I set foot for the first time in Dubai, I thought to give myself only 2 years and I’ll go back home. That 2 years became 5, then 10, and then forever. Today marks exactly my 14th year in the UAE. Call it either indecision or lack of planning, but I think it also has a lot to do with the love for this country.

I feel blessed to call UAE my family’s second home. It’s not hard to fall in love with this country. There are so many reasons that influence an expat’s decision to stay longer here than go home or go somewhere else. Here are just 49 of them:

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

  1. People of all cultures and religions can happily co-exist in the community and at work.
  2. We can celebrate Christmas, Diwali, and Ramadan in the country; and people from differrent religion cheerfuly greet the other religion. There are no conflicts.
  3. We get shortened hours at work during Ramadan
  4. We can wear comfortable clothing as long as it is decent, modest, and respectful to whoever you are with.
  5. Family-first policy is observed on parks, beaches, and many other public places; even in public transport.
  6. UAE is a haven for creatives – art exhibits and festivals are aplenty every year.
  7. People with disabilities are called “people of determination” and they are highly regarded and included in almost all activities and events.
  8. Malls have started to designate parking spaces for pregnant women and those with infants.
  9. Desert camping is one of the best bonding activity for family and friends.
  10. Food is diverse. How can you not love a place where you can find hundreds of cuisines in every corner.
  11. We get to see our favorite musical acts live as UAE is a frequent artist destination.
  12. Women are highly regarded. There are pink taxis for women, and there are areas exclusive for ladies in buses and trains.
  13. Family is also highly honored. There are priority lanes for families with young kids in many offices and public places.


    SAFETY

  14. We have peace of mind wherever we go – even in the wee hours of the night.
  15. We can leave our cars unlocked on the sideroad, no one will carnap.
  16. We can leave our laptops, phones, or other belongings on the restaurant table unattended, and no one will take it.


    GOVERNANCE

  17. The leaders are visionary. And the vision is properly communicated across media platforms.
  18. Crimes get solved fast, and they are documented really well in cinematic videos.
  19. The leadership is like no other. When they say something, people follow – oftentimes is all for the residents safety and protection.
  20. Emirates ID has all the whereabouts of a person – so it’s much easier to register to absolutely anything.
  21. COVID-19 preventive measures are in place.
  22. Futuristic. The long-term plan in the country represents hope.
  23. Free food is offered or donated to the poor during special occasions like Ramadan.
  24. Charity events and fundraising activities are regulated to avoid frauds.
  25. Generosity. UAE is always ready to send financial and relief aids to other countries in times of calamity.
  26. No personal tax – though there is already VAT, we receive our salary without cuts.


    THE CITY AND THE COUNTRYSIDE

  27. Dubai is always on top of the list of best places to live in terms of comfort and safety.
  28. The ever-changing cityscape is amazing. All world-breaking shapes and sizes are here.
  29. It’s clean and orderly – there’s proper garbage disposal everywhere.
  30. Roads are constructed to high standards and are well-spaced and well-lit at night.
  31. Sometimes, mall restrooms look better than your bedroom.
  32. Beaches here have white sand (not dolomite).
  33. Green parks offer a free (or cheap) alternative to kids play destination.
  34. The use of biometrics and facial recognition in public offices are testaments to the country being an advanced digital technology hub
  35. Mall sale is a real sale. There are even 2 big shopping festivals happening every year to “celebrate” the drop in prices.
  36. Sports is alive and it varies in every community. Football for Arabs and Westerners, cricket for Indian and Pakistanis, and basketball for Filipinos among others.


    ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE

  37. The country is building the world’s largest concentrated solar power plant. During daylight, solar power will provide cheap electricity, and at night the UAE will use stored solar heat to generate electricity.
  38. Abu Dhabi has a plan to make the emirate free of single-use plastic bags by 2021. Other emirates followed.
  39. You won’t experience the extreme of heat “that much” because most of the time you’re indoors – and everywhere is airconditioned (even the bus stop).


    REAL CAMPAIGNS GET PEOPLE MOVING

  40. Dubai Fitness Challenge is a real fitness challenge. It doesn’t end in the hashtag.
  41. People can lose weight in exchange for golds.
  42. Construction of bike lanes are visible and quick to inspire people to bike to and from work.
  43. They tax sodas, energy drinks, and cigarettes the highest to ‘somehow’ reduce people consuming them.


    HEALTHCARE

  44. Most often than not, companies provide health insurance to their employees. And if you have one, you are entitled to good medical care and facilities with the top UAE Hospitals.
  45. Abu Dhabi proactively created and tested a COVID-19 vaccine, and currently leads in its global distribution.


    LOCAL TOURISM

  46. There’s always something new to try every now and then.
  47. Hotel staycations are amazing, albeit can be costly at times.
  48. There’s a lot of fun and adventures in land (desert, parks), water (watersports, fishing) and even air (skydiving, balloon rides).
  49. Camping in the desert or the beach is a sure fun moment.

Disclaimer – these are just my personal reasons. I’m sure you’ve got a set of different reasons too. Staying longer in the UAE than what you originally planned could be a blessing or a curse. In my case, it’s a blessing.

Forever grateful to UAE. Thank you UAE!

Dubai Run 30 trophy moments in 30 iconic landmarks

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Dubai Run 30 trophy moments in 30 iconic landmarks

100,000 Dubai residents run the whole city to cap a very exciting, encouraging, and fruitful Dubai Fitness Challenge. This year’s edition saw dozens to hundreds of runners of all ages and abilities sprint through their nearest community, park, or absolutely wherever convenient – turning the vision, “City is a gym” into reality.

And chances are, participants ran through at least one attraction in the city and captured some trophy moments during the course. Here are some celebrations in 32 different locations from A-Z:

1. Al Salam Mosque

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIGTEsnlPnt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

2. Al Seef

3. Bay Avenue

4. Bluewaters Island

5. Burj Al Arab

6. Burj Khalifa

7. Burj Park

8. Clock Tower Deira

9. Desert

10. Dubai Canal

11. Dubai Frame

12. Dubai Marina

13. Dubai Wharf, D1 Tower

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIFUECehb6Q/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

14. Emirates Towers (+ MOTF)

15. Etisalat

16. Flag Garden

17. Flag Island

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIGeOYVJfvZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

18. Garhoud Bridge

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIGSHAZg4in/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

19. Kite Beach

20. LOVE ME, Dubai Mall

21. Mamzar Beach Walk

22. Marasi Drive

23. Museum of the Future

24. Port Saeed Plaza

25. Quranic Park

26. Sheikh Zayed Road

27. The Beach

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIGDyvkpHFL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

28. The Palm

29. Twisted Bridge

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIFcXYsJDJL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

30. Wadi Naqab

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIGFgnOpb4w/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

31. Wings of Mexico

32. Zabeel Palace

You can get your artwork displayed in Burj Khalifa – here’s how

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You can get your artwork displayed in Burj Khalifa – here’s how

Think you’ve seen it all in Burj Khalifa? Not until you see your artwork displayed in the world’s tallest building.

Burj Khalifa, on Instagram, announces an ‘open call’ inviting all emerging designers, light, and 3D mapping artists to submit their works for a chance to be displayed on a literally larger-than-life canvas. With more than 1.2 million LED lights, Burj Khalifa has one of the world’s most iconic structure’s façade.

Individuals and groups from the UAE and other parts of the world can submit their entries.

How to submit artwork?

Simply go to this link on the Burj Khalifa website and click the “Submit entry” button. Submission is open from the 22nd of November until the 31st of December. A winning design will be featured every week.

You may send an email to artanddesign@burjkhalifa.ae to get support.

Here’s the official invitation:

Top photo by Anshuman Shaji

7 reasons why you shouldn’t miss Imah’s Day-off standup comedy show

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7 reasons why you shouldn’t miss Imah’s Day-off standup comedy show

Imah Dumagay, the Filipino standup comedian who’s making it big in Dubai’s international performing arts scene, will have her first solo act on November 27.

A long-time resident of Dubai, Imah began doing standup comedy in 2018 with the Dubomedy School of Arts. Her debut full-length stand-up show titled, Imah’s Day Off, will have you crying tears of laughter as she recounts her experiences of being a Filipina living in Dubai.

I’m ecstatic to be performing my first whole show in Dubai. I want to make this a very entertaining night as I believe the first impression is the only impression. My comedy journey is just beginning, but I want the people of Dubai to share in it every step of the way.

Imah Dumagay

“Choose Yourself” author James Altucher says he likes to watch standup comedy before every meeting, date, dinner, media appearance, conversation, and public talk.

“I have a lot of inhibitions when I meet people,” he shares on Quora. “I’m scared and somewhat introverted. Standup comedians are the best public speakers in the world, and I think they are the most astute social commentators on the human condition.” 

Not only that, Altucher reports that watching standup gives him a boost of energy, material to fold into his conversation, and a better sense of how to time his communication.

Why watch Imah’s Day-off

Watching Imah’s maiden solo show could be one of the best things to happen in your otherwise gloomy 2020.

1. She’s the Imah-kulet

She was our guest at BXD Now Facebook Live, and I could say she’s a fun magnet – on and off the camera. There are funny people and there are naturally funny people. She’s the latter.

2. Class is her middle name

She’s a class act. In Tagalog, “hindi bakya.” Her content is not rude – sometimes harsh but not rude and insulting. That’s what differentiates her brand from the majority of Filipino standup comedy these days.

3. The joke is on her

…and she delivers it very well. Audiences from various nations can easily relate to those typical stereotypes about Filipinos working abroad – and Imah can make everyone laugh comfortably on those anecdotes.

Here’s what I mean:

4. Her comedy is therapeutic

Sometimes all you need is a really good joke and a hearty laugh. If laughter is the best medicine, Imah’s comedy is a VACCINE! Her brand of standup is simply therapeutic.

5. She preaches ‘laugh-changing truth’

…and it’s not offensive at all. In fact they’re among the funniest jokes out there. Check this one:

6. We need a good laugh for 2020

The series of events this year, up to these past few days has been overwhelming, to say the least. We deserve a good laugh. We need humor, not just to guard against our worries, but also to freshen up the mind.

7. Sense of humor makes you more sense

Having a good sense of humor is a sign of a great character. Research shows that sense of humor can improve your mental and physical health, boost your attractiveness, and improve your leadership skills.

So, where to buy tickets

Tickets are available at bookmyshow.com. Please note that attendance is limited to only 50% of the venue capacity to ensure that social distancing is in place.

  • Date: 27 November
  • Time: 8:00pm
  • Doors Open: 7:30pm
  • Location: The Theatre MOE

Reflecting the diversity of the Dubai comedy scene, this night of laughter will open with a special performance by Egyptian comic Amr Abdelmonem and will be hosted by Liz Bains from the UK.

The show will be in English and is presented by Commercial Bank of Dubai and Co-presented by Moda Line UAE, sponsored by Kickers Sports Bar and Victoriano Glamorous Events, and in partnership with DuBlog, Art for All, and Tag 91.1.

Get to know more about Imah in our interview:

Trust me she’s just at the beginning of a wonderful road ahead.

Quezon’s Game to be shown in UAE cinemas

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Quezon’s Game to be shown in UAE cinemas

From 1937 to 1941, President Manuel L. Quezon opened the doors of the Philippines to the Jews. His remarkable act of opening the country to the refugees saved 1,200 Jews from the Holocaust.

If this doesn’t sound familiar to you, the highly acclaimed Filipino film, Quezon’s Game is here to remind all of us of this very courageous and interesting part of Philippine history. The film centers around the president’s plan to shelter Jews in the Philippines who were fleeing Nazi Germany during the pre-World War II era.

The movie is set to be shown in the UAE starting November 12. Incidentally, this first Filipino movie to be shown in the UAE this year happens at the same time when Dubai welcomes its first flight with tourists from Israel.

Multi-awarded actor Raymond Bagatsing plays the president’s role while the equally talented Rachel Alejandro plays the role of his wife, Aurora Quezon. The film was directed by Matthew Rosen who is British-Jewish.

Why you should see the movie

In a time when many Filipinos today express displeasure and confusion with the current Philippine government, the movie is a great way to look back and be reminded that once upon a time, the country is steered by a truly great leader.

Where to watch Quezon’s Game in the UAE

The public can watch the movie in select screens from the following cinemas:

Please check the cinema websites (linked above) for updates on the schedule.

You may also follow ABS-CBN Middle East on Facebook for further updates.

The awards

The film won at least 20 awards as an entry in various international film festivals. In January 2019, Quezon’s Game won 12 accolades at the Cinema World Fest Awards in Ottawa, Canada.

CINEMA WORLDFEST AWARDS CANADA

  • Award of excellence “ACTING” Male Lead
  • Award of excellence “ACTING” Female Lead
  • Award of excellence “SUPPORTING ACTOR”
  • Award of excellence “ORIGINAL SCORE”
  • Award of excellence “LIGHTING”
  • Award of excellence “PRODUCED SCREENPLAY”
  • Award of excellence “SOUND DESIGN”
  • Award of excellence “COSTUME DESIGN”
  • Award of excellence “SET DESIGN”
  • Award of excellence “DRAMA FEATURE”
  • Award of excellence “COLOR TREATMENT”
  • Award of excellence “DIRECTING”

THE INDIEFEST FILM AWARDS 2019 CALIFORNIA

  • Excellence “LEADING ACTOR” Raymond Bagatsing
  • Excellence “ASIAN FILM”
    Carlo L. Katigbak
    Lorena H. Rosen
    Olivia M. Lamasan
    Linggit Tan-Marasigan
  • Excellence “ORIGINAL SCORE” Dean Rosen
  • Excellence “CINEMATOGRAPHY” Matthew Rosen
  • Excellence “DIRECTION” Matthew Rosen
  • Excellence “SPECIAL MENTION” Film Feature
    Carlo L. Katigbak
    Lorena H. Rosen
    Olivia M. Lamasan
    Linggit Tan-Marasigan

CINEMA WORLD FEST ANNUAL GALA 2019

  • Best in Show

ACCOLADE GLOBAL FILM COMPETITION 2019

  • Excellence “SPECIAL MENTION” Film Feature
    Carlo L. Katigbak
    Lorena H. Rosen
    Olivia M. Lamasan
    Linggit Tan-Marasigan

WORLDFEST HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2019

  • Best Director
  • Best Producer
  • Best Art Direction
  • Best Foreign Feature

Watch the trailer

In the not-so-distant past, we cannot comfortably share in public anything that has to do with Israel here in the UAE. We cannot even post our photos from our Israel pilgrimage. But thanks to the recent Israel-UAE peace agreement, we’re seeing these beautiful changes continuously happening, and this film showing in the country is one true evidence of this remarkable peace treaty.

Ben&Ben hopes to empower listeners with the new hit “Di Ka Sayang”

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Ben&Ben hopes to empower listeners with the new hit “Di Ka Sayang”

Filipino folk-pop band Ben&Ben marks a definitive new era in music with the release of their latest single, “Di Ka Sayang” – an empowering anthem that respects individuality without prejudice.

The inspiration

It all started with a conversation between brothers Paolo and Miguel.

“Migs and I were having a conversation on our career choices and how hard it was to fight for who we really are and what we want to do in life, amidst societal and family expectations”

Paolo Benjamin

They decided to release it a year later where it is most timely, with what’s happening around, and with many of our dreams being crushed by the pandemic and other circumstances.

Inspiring confidence and fearlessness in the face of adversity, the MTV Europe Music Awards-nominated band confronts everyday challenges of life with light and motivation. But instead of perpetuating the erasure of our collective struggles, their song “Di Ka Sayang” encourages listeners to get out of the rut and be in charge of their own decision matters, no matter the costs.

A massive statement

Written by Paolo and Miguel Benjamin and produced by Jean Paul Verona along with lead guitarist Poch Barretto, percussionist Toni Muñoz, keyboardist Patricia Lasaten, and violinist Keifer Cabugao, the anthemic rocker arrives with a massive statement: tribal beats and esoteric details that evolve into a soaring, pop-rock production, but whose unrelenting energy and sonic ambition feel like a natural progression from their past releases.

Pat Lasaten recalls how the arrangement and production of “Di Ka Sayang” challenged the team to have fun and explore an entirely new world of possibilities in terms of lyrics and musicality.

“Our goal from the start is to create a vibe and sound like no other song of ours before: one that would immerse the listener into the message of the song, and into a mood that we wanted the message to be experienced in.”

Pat Lasaten

This creative mindset allows Ben&Ben to hone their trademark sound without rethreading into past themes and venture into ideas outside of their comfort zones, especially now that the band has all the time to make new music under one roof.

Watch the official video:

Vocalist and guitarist Miguel Benjamin shares in a statement, “We’ve also been exploring new soundscapes and writing about themes other than love and heartbreak, and we’ve been having a lot of fun in the process. ”

Listen here:

“Di Ka Sayang” is now available on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music.

Dubai’s legendary Thai restaurant Benjarong is reopening

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Dubai’s legendary Thai restaurant Benjarong is reopening

If it’s about the best Thai food in Dubai, Benjarong will always be on top of my list. Let me share 5 reasons why this restaurant at Dusit Thani Dubai is considered iconic:

1. Authentic Thai Cuisine

Benjarong’s mouth-watering selection of authentic Thai cuisine is a true culinary journey. Carefully crafted by Thai Chef de Cuisine Wichit Panyo and his team, the multi-award-winning cuisine finds the perfect harmony and balance between the five flavors of sweet, spicy, sour, salty, and creamy, by using the freshest, finest quality ingredients.

Must-try dishes

Some of Chef Wichit’s favorites include:

  • Gai Burger Bai Kraprao Lae Khai Dao – grilled chicken burger topped with mushroom, holy basil sauce, Thai fried egg, and steamed rice
  • Gaeng Kiew Wan – green curry with Thai eggplant, sweet basil leaves, and the choice of vegetables and tofu, chicken, beef, or prawns
  • Phad Cha Pla Salmon – stir-fried salmon fish with Thai round eggplant, zerumbet, green pepper, chili, and sweet basil leaves
  • Khao Neaw Mamuang – sticky rice flavored with pandan and served with mango and coconut ice cream

The classic Pad Thai is always a winner.

2. Vibrant colorful ambiance

From hues of blue velvets to deep reds in the ceiling, accented by greens, golds, and whites in the columns and architectural highlights, Benjarong has been transformed and reborn with a vibrant display of color, which stylishly preserves its rich heritage. An enchanting array of European motifs, fused with aesthetically intriguing Thai elements, gives a fresh new look to the space, maintaining a contemporary chic aesthetic that effortlessly blends with a sense of rustic luxury.  

Large hand-woven lanterns hang above plush velvet sofas, creating a wonderful juxtaposition, as an elegant light installation with backlit, gold-leafed, circular lights gives a nod to the full moon festivities of Thailand. 

3. Instagrammable food presentation

  • Larb Gai Salad
  • Yum Khao Klong Lae Quinoa Salad
  • Yum Neua Nam Tok Salad
  • Yum Som O Pomelo Salad
  • Chef’s Signature Khao Soi
  • Coconut Creme Brulee

For guests who are all about the ’gram and looking to snap their next piece of Insta-gold, keep an eye out for the top five most Insta-worthy dishes, easily identified by the icon next to them on the menu. 

4. An immersive social setting

Benjarong’s beverage selection features a wide array of flavor-filled cocktails and mocktails expertly prepared by the resident mixology maestro, craft and Southeast Asian hops, and an extensive international grape collection, alongside lots more sips and spirits.

5. The view

Located at the 24th floor of Dusit Thani Dubai, with picturesque views of Burj Khalifa and the wandering cityscape, Benjarong’s ideal location, amidst the Dubai skyline, is tastefully exemplified by white frames, which capture the sweeping views of the city, adding to the grandeur of the lofted space, yet retaining a casual, exciting and fun look and feel. 

Opening hours

Saturday to Thursday 

  • Lunch: 12pm to 3pm 
  • Dinner: 7pm to 11.30pm

Fridays 

  • Brunch: 12.30pm to 4pm 
  • Dinner: 7pm to 11.30pm 

For reservations and enquiries, please call +971 4317 4515, WhatsApp +971 54 990 8007 or email dine.dtdu@dusit.com  

Sheikh Zayed Road to turn into a huge cycling track for Dubai Fitness Challenge

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Sheikh Zayed Road to turn into a huge cycling track for Dubai Fitness Challenge

For one morning, bikers are invited to cycle around two iconic routes in the 14-lane Sheikh Zayed Road.

The most popular highway in Dubai is set to become a huge cycling track on November 20, Friday as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge 2020.

How to join and register?

Registration is FREE. Cyclists as young as 5 years old can join as long as they can complete a minimum of 4 kilometers cycling distance. Just bring your own bike, helmet, and gears, and WATER. No bike rentals will be available at the venue.

Every rider must register online at https://dubairide.com/ to take part in the exclusive circuits.

The routes

  • The Family Route: The 4km ride will commence close to The Dubai Mall Cinema Parking entrance, taking riders around Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard in Downtown Dubai. Participants will make a full circle around Souk Al Bahar, The Dubai Fountain, and the Burj Khalifa, before finally heading back to the finishing point.
  • The General Route: The 14km Sheikh Zayed Road Route will take participants along a loop of the main highway, between Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Safa Park. For the first time in history, both directions of the highway will be open for cyclists only (For ages 13+ only).

“Participants can enjoy the thrill of an outdoor bike ride while experiencing a unique perspective of iconic sights across Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Downtown Dubai, Business Bay and Dubai Canal,”

Dubai ride cycling route
Received from Dubai Ride email (Nov. 17, 2020)

Tips for the riders

  • Multiple laps of the route/s are allowed
  • Water will be available on the route courtesy of Mai Dubai
  • People Of Determination can access both routes and should contact ambassadors@linkviva.com to access the course
  • After your ride head to The Dubai Mall for a well-earned breakfast

Arrival and parking information

  • Your parking information will be shared Wednesday 18 November by email
  • Arrive 20 minutes prior to your check-in time
  • Bikes should be rear-mounted or inside the car – cars with roof-mounted bikes will not be able to access parking
  • For those cycling to the event, you will need to proceed through the check-in areas
  • Please wear your ride bib and proceed to the check-in area

Gear

  • No backpacks are allowed on the route
  • Ensure your bike is in good working condition
  • Check your tyres and brakes
  • Wear your helmet and wear a mask at all times
  • Wear closed sport shoes
  • No motorized/electric bikes will be allowed on the route

Bib collection

Please collect your bib prior to event day.

Where: Dubai World Trade Centre, Enter through Dubai Sports World, Za’abeel Hall 6
When: Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th Nov
Time: 3pm – 11pm

You must have your QR code.

Parking is available at Zabeel Plaza, Al Mustaqbal Street Parking (first 30 minutes is free) or take Dubai Metro.

Safety measures for riders

Speed limits will be set for cyclists to ensure public safety. Cyclists will also be encouraged to follow strict social distancing throughout the ride. 

Ride for a cause

While the event remains free-to-enter, participants are encouraged to support Education Uninterrupted – a nationwide fundraising campaign that tackles the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the education of children and youth in the UAE.

Where to bike in Dubai?

As part of preparation for the historic ride, get on your wheels this early and check out this ultimate guide for the best places to bike in the city, and everything else you need to know about cycling in Dubai.

Be part of history!

Etisalat recognized as the fastest mobile network in the world

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Etisalat recognized as the fastest mobile network in the world

Etisalat provided the world’s fastest mobile download speeds in the United Arab Emirates between January and July 2020, with an average download speed of 115.89 Mbps, gaining recognition as the world’s fastest mobile network provider at the Ookla Speedtest Awards 2020.

Ookla is the global leader in fixed broadband and mobile network testing applications, data, and analysis.

“This is a milestone achievement and a testament to our relentless efforts towards our strategy and vision to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’.”

Etisalat Group Acting CEO, Hatem Dowidar

The UAE has become one of the countries with the fastest mobile and fixed internet speeds in the world.

The Top 10

Etisalat had a 98.78 speed score in the report. The other networks on the top ten list include:

  • SK Telecom (South Korea)
  • Ooredoo (Qatar)
  • Vivacom (Bulgaria)
  • T-Mobile (Netherlands)
  • TELUS (Canada)
  • Telenor (Norway)
  • Vodafone (Albania)
  • China Mobile (China)
  • Hrvatski Telecom (Croatia)
  • Telia (Lithuania)

Photo from pexels

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