There is still time to enjoy Abu Dhabi Retail’s memorable Layali Ramadan programme of exclusive shopping experiences as the holy month enters the final fortnight.
The fourth citywide initiative has offered numerous vibrant opportunities with homegrown concepts featuring alongside international brands for innovative activations.
Once again, UAE residents and visitors to the country can discover and confirm firsthand why Abu Dhabi is a luxury Middle East destination with a passion for exclusive and high-end experiences.
The latest Layali Ramadan campaign began on March 8 and continues until April 14, during which time shoppers get to check out at least 10 “first-in-the-region” immersive experiences, exclusive capsule collections, limited-edition pieces, plus tempting retail offers.
Overall, more than 3,500 shops and outlets in 27 malls have been participating in Abu Dhabi Retail’s latest event of this much-anticipated initiative.
And if you have yet to dive in, expect to find fan-favourite brands that have come together to create unique and engaging moments that blend tradition with innovation and combine the power of global and homegrown brands … think Valentino collaborating with Erth, or Jimmy Choo joining forces with Origami Sushi.
Among the highlights are Ramadan collections at Tryano Majlis and a unique handbag series by Jimmy Choo, which includes a handbag inspired by the UAE’s capital city.
All in all, Layali Ramadan puts Abu Dhabi in the spotlight as an increasingly significant hub for luxury brand activations - whether staged by emerging local producers or globally established international names.
During the first weekend of Ramadan, Abu Dhabi Retail partnered with homegrown pop-up concept Mirbad to host their annual Ramadan Night Market, at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
Among 100-plus vendors, the likes of Karen Wazen Eyewear and OFA gave shoppers a unique opportunity to discover some of the region’s most coveted brands, alongside up-and-coming creative talent under the banner Once Upon A Time in Mirbad.
But there is still plenty to discover and experience, such as the Tryano Majlis at Fil Florist & Cafe, emanating the essence of Ramadan in Al Bateen since March 21.
Until April 7, the city’s destination department store is hosting an exclusive, carefully curated Ramadan edit of collections from local and regional designers across apparel ranges for women, men, and children.
Visitors can explore Tryano’s extensive beauty offering via exclusive masterclasses, as well as partaking in styling sessions and bespoke experiences throughout the duration of a cafe takeover that combines community, fashion, and beauty.
Few cities get to be the inspiration for a celebrated fashion name, but Abu Dhabians will be proud to know Jimmy Choo has truly taken notice of the UAE capital.
Its global The Flower Series capsule collection roadshow has crossed the planet from Paris to Tokyo and has now landed in Abu Dhabi where the brand unveiled that locally-inspired addition.
Created in partnership with Parisian couture embroidery house Les Ateliers Vermont, the collection features 11 limited-edition BON BON handbags and matching shoes.
Each draws inspiration from cities of the world and is on display at Origami Sushi Abu Dhabi, in Marsa Al Bateen, until March 29.
Also making retail headlines during this coveted campaign is MAC Cosmetics and its collaboration with Al Bateen’s Saddle Cafe.
Visitors still have time to discover the latest MAC Teddy Forever collection as this invigorating brand takes over one of the capital’s favourite dining destinations “where culture and innovation come together”.
The entire space has been reimagined by MAC Cosmetics and celebrates the famed Velvet Teddy pink hue.
You have until April 7 to visit this immersive pop-up and explore the new collection inspired by the brand's fan favourite lipstick, accompanied by games, art, and a custom F&B menu.
Instagram regulars still have until April 4 to capture some ‘likes’ as ladies get to immerse themselves in the Benefit Cosmetics Majlis.
Hosted by Reem Island’s Ritual Cafe and Studio, visitors can explore the brand’s eye-catching visual identity and icons, as well as enjoy a suhoor menu, plus custom workshops such as mirror and flower painting, with friends or family.
L’Occitane Village, meanwhile, is described as “a place of discovery, gathering and care” - and is another enticing example of the power of global and homegrown brand collaboration.
Participants are serenaded by a traditional live oud player as they stroll through a space that enables them to rediscover L’Occitane’s bestsellers.
It is hosted at Chapter Cafe by Ribbonaira, Al Bateen, until April 4.
And completing the list of big-name collaborations, Valentino and Abu Dhabi’s Michelin-starred Emirati fusion dining concept Erth Restaurant have created the perfect place to meet friends and family daily for suhoor.
Until April 12, guests are invited into the brand “universe” to enjoy a menu specially curated by Erth Restaurant, at Qasr Al Hosn, alongside Valentino, adding to a unique culinary experience.
In all, 3,500-plus shops across 27 malls are part of Layali Ramadan.
For example, there is a chance to enjoy unique experiences at prime retail centres such as Marina Mall Abu Dhabi, which is hosting Hekayat Al Marina storytelling sessions, traditional games and entertainment, creating a memorable Ramadan experience for all.
Additionally, the popular shopping address will offer a month-long traditional souq, showcasing traditional and cultural products.
To find out what else is happening and where, visit the website www.abudhabiretail.ae and follow Abu Dhabi Retail on Instagram @abudhabiretail to make the most of the remaining Layali Ramadan days and evenings.
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
Desert Warrior
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Ben Kingsley
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Rating: 3/5
Sheer grandeur
The Owo building is 14 storeys high, seven of which are below ground, with the 30,000 square feet of amenities located subterranean, including a 16-seat private cinema, seven lounges, a gym, games room, treatment suites and bicycle storage.
A clear distinction between the residences and the Raffles hotel with the amenities operated separately.
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Opening weekend Premier League fixtures
Weekend of August 10-13
Arsenal v Manchester City
Bournemouth v Cardiff City
Fulham v Crystal Palace
Huddersfield Town v Chelsea
Liverpool v West Ham United
Manchester United v Leicester City
Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur
Southampton v Burnley
Watford v Brighton & Hove Albion
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Everton
Company Profile
Company name: Yeepeey
Started: Soft launch in November, 2020
Founders: Sagar Chandiramani, Jatin Sharma and Monish Chandiramani
Based: Dubai
Industry: E-grocery
Initial investment: $150,000
Future plan: Raise $1.5m and enter Saudi Arabia next year
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What drives subscription retailing?
Once the domain of newspaper home deliveries, subscription model retailing has combined with e-commerce to permeate myriad products and services.
The concept has grown tremendously around the world and is forecast to thrive further, according to UnivDatos Market Insights’ report on recent and predicted trends in the sector.
The global subscription e-commerce market was valued at $13.2 billion (Dh48.5bn) in 2018. It is forecast to touch $478.2bn in 2025, and include the entertainment, fitness, food, cosmetics, baby care and fashion sectors.
The report says subscription-based services currently constitute “a small trend within e-commerce”. The US hosts almost 70 per cent of recurring plan firms, including leaders Dollar Shave Club, Hello Fresh and Netflix. Walmart and Sephora are among longer established retailers entering the space.
UnivDatos cites younger and affluent urbanites as prime subscription targets, with women currently the largest share of end-users.
That’s expected to remain unchanged until 2025, when women will represent a $246.6bn market share, owing to increasing numbers of start-ups targeting women.
Personal care and beauty occupy the largest chunk of the worldwide subscription e-commerce market, with changing lifestyles, work schedules, customisation and convenience among the chief future drivers.
