Dubai TV and Samaa Dubai are the latest networks to announce their Ramadan line-up.
They join Abu Dhabi TV and radio stations, MBC's online platform Shahid, OSN and Sharjah Broadcasting Authority in revealing their programming for the holy month.
Scheduled to broadcast from the beginning of Ramadan (most likely to fall on April 12), the two channels will showcase a mixed bag of high-octane Egyptian dramas in addition to Emirati comedies, quiz shows as well as the much-loved local animated series Shaabiat Al Cartoon.
These are some of the key shows coming soon to the small screen.
The big dramas
‘Harb Al Ahliya’ (Dubai TV)
With a dynamite cast including Youssra and Bassel Khaiat, the Egyptian thriller is all about fraught family dynamics. Abandoned as a child, a savvy businesswoman (Jamila Awad) unexpectedly meets her mother and their subsequent relationship is nothing less than rocky.
‘La’bat Newton’ (Dubai TV)
Egypt's Mona Zaki and Mohamed Mamdouh star as a seasoned couple who have one too many fights. Anguished by the experience, Zaki's characters calls it quits, packs her bags and travels abroad. On her search for identity, she meets interesting characters along the way.
‘Did Al Kassar’ (Dubai TV)
How long should you try before walking away? That's the core problem for Salma, played by Egypt's Nelly Karim, as she suffers from the recklessness and infidelities of her husband. The series see her evolve from a victim to a strong woman with a ruthless streak of her own.
‘Al Kandoush’ (Dubai TV)
Also showing on Sharjah TV, this Syrian series was first announced in 2018. The drama was initially put on hold because of disagreements between the various production companies involved. It has since gone back on track.
With everyone back on the same page, viewers can revel in the stellar Syrian cast led by Ayman Zidan and Sulaf Fawakherji in a period drama that explores Damascene society in the early 20th century.
Al Namoos (Dubai TV)
Similar to 2020's well-received Ramadan drama Mohamed Ali Road, Kuwaiti screenwriter Moe Anwar conjures up another ambitious drama spanning pre- and post-oil boom Kuwait.
The ensemble drama, led by Mohammed Al-Mansour and Haifaa Adel, follows the free-wheeling life of Rashid Al Mather and how his murder unleashes a torrent of pent-up secrets and painful memories. The series will also broadcast on OSN.
Local and regional productions
‘Shaabiat Al Cartoon’ (Sama Dubai)
Dubbed the UAE's version of The Simpsons, the popular animated series returns for its 15th season with its blend of humour and cutting social commentary.
Shaabiat, a word that means "rural neighbourhood" in Arabic, follows the lives of a group of families and individuals living in a small Dubai neighbourhood. Each episode focuses on different individuals and their quirky troubles.
'Hamed Hilou' (Sama Dubai)
After last year's hit Kashe' Nashe, Emirati comedy duo Abdullah Zeid and Gomaa Ali return for another zany sitcom set in an Emirati village of the 1960s.
While the humour is sweet natured, the series illustrates the pioneering spirit of previous generations that powered the UAE’s development.
‘Wa Anna Ahebak Ba'ad’ (Sama Dubai)
The Kuwait comedy shows that it’s not always "happily ever after" once the wedding is over, in fact, some can argue that is when the troubles begin.
From family squabbles to getting to really know your true life partner, Wa Anna Ahebak Ba'ad, translated to I Love You Too, is a quirky look into Gulf relationships.
Cultural shows
‘Al Rawi’ (Dubai TV)
Dig into Dubai's archives and listen to the prose of some of its greatest poets in this culture programme.
In looking at the past and its great personalities, Al Rawi shows how Dubai evolved to where it is today.
‘Al Mandoos’ (Sama Dubai)
A mix of talk show and competition, Al Mandoos has viewers calling in to share their reflections on the UAE and Ramadan while quizzed about the country's heritage for prizes.
More details are at dubaitv.ae and samadubai.ae
Living in...
This article is part of a guide on where to live in the UAE. Our reporters will profile some of the country’s most desirable districts, provide an estimate of rental prices and introduce you to some of the residents who call each area home.
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Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026
1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years
If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.
2. E-invoicing in the UAE
Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption.
3. More tax audits
Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks.
4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime
Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.
5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit
There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.
6. Further transfer pricing enforcement
Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes.
7. Limited time periods for audits
Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion.
8. Pillar 2 implementation
Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.
9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services
Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations.
10. Substance and CbC reporting focus
Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity.
Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer
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GOLF’S RAHMBO
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if you go
The flights
Etihad, Emirates and Singapore Airlines fly direct from the UAE to Singapore from Dh2,265 return including taxes. The flight takes about 7 hours.
The hotel
Rooms at the M Social Singapore cost from SG $179 (Dh488) per night including taxes.
The tour
Makan Makan Walking group tours costs from SG $90 (Dh245) per person for about three hours. Tailor-made tours can be arranged. For details go to www.woknstroll.com.sg
Specs
Engine: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive electric
Range: Up to 610km
Power: 905hp
Torque: 985Nm
Price: From Dh439,000
Available: Now
The specs
Engine: 3.0-litre flat-six twin-turbocharged
Transmission: eight-speed PDK automatic
Power: 445bhp
Torque: 530Nm
Price: Dh474,600
On Sale: Now
