The Asateer Tent at Atlantis, The Palm is one of many exquisite suhoor offerings this year. Photo: Atlantis
The Asateer Tent at Atlantis, The Palm is one of many exquisite suhoor offerings this year. Photo: Atlantis
The Asateer Tent at Atlantis, The Palm is one of many exquisite suhoor offerings this year. Photo: Atlantis
The Asateer Tent at Atlantis, The Palm is one of many exquisite suhoor offerings this year. Photo: Atlantis

Ramadan 2024: Suhoors to sample in Abu Dhabi and Dubai


Saeed Saeed
  • English
  • Arabic

As the end of Ramadan nears, it's the last chance to dine at some of the country's most popular places for suhoor. The meals usually take place after the Ramadan taraweeh evening prayers and continue until the early hours of the morning. Taking place across Abu Dhabi and Dubai throughout the holy month, they are often relaxed dining experiences punctuated by an elegant ambience.

Here are 19 worth trying.

Suhoors in Abu Dhabi

Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

Shakshouka, foul medames, lamb makanek, shish taouk and yas mashawi are all on the suhoor menu at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island. These are served alongside hot and cold mezze, cheese boards, fruits and decadent desserts. There is also live Arabic music.

9pm-1am; Dh140 per person; 052 547 6318

Ferrari World Yas Island

The popular theme park has launched its first suhoor service, running every Friday and Saturday, in the Fanzone area. The buffet features regional Ramadan staples.

Those looking for an extra thrill can hope on the Bell'Italia ride at the Italian Zone, which will be operational throughout the evening.

9pm-midnight; Dh180 per person; Yas Island; 600 511 115

The Majlis by the Sea at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

The waves of the Arabian Gulf provide the soundtrack to this exquisite suhoor experience. The majlis has an indoor and terrace section with a modern feel and subtle nods to the UAE and Middle East.

Musicians perform on a circular stage in the outdoor section and diners can also spot regular performances by fire dancers on the beach.

The regionally inspired menu is extensive, with nearly 50 dishes ranging from soups and salads to starters, mains and desserts. Make sure to check out the rich meat and vegetarian fettah dishes, and save some room for the kunafa.

10pm-2am; Dh200 minimum spend; West Corniche Road; 02 690 9000

Grand Lawn at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

Intimacy and elegance define The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi's suhoor.

Guests are ushered into a lovely outdoor space to unwind at tables or in cabanas decorated with Arab motifs.

The set meal is for sharing with a mix of Middle Eastern favourites, from dips and salads to grilled meats and desserts. This is an option for those looking for a low-key and relaxed experience.

9pm-2am; Dh200 minimum spend; Al Rawdah; 02 818 8203

Oasis Tent at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi

The seaside resort transforms part of its gardens into a spacious Bedouin Ramadan tent. The a la carte menu is full of Middle Eastern cuisine made on live cooking stations such as mixed grills and shawarma platters.

10pm-2am; Dh150 minimum spend; Saadiyat Island; 02 407 1234

Al Rimal at Erth Abu Dhabi

With service beginning at 11.30pm, this suhoor is one for the night owls. Served in the hotel's dining hall, Al Rimal is all about the ambience, with live oud music on offer.

The buffet is inspired by Levant and Emirati cuisines with live cooking stations. Terrace seating, surrounded by luscious greenery, is also available.

11.30pm-3am; Dh195; Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street; 02 497 5100

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Ramadan village

The suhoor is held poolside. Photo: Shangri-La Abu Dhabi
The suhoor is held poolside. Photo: Shangri-La Abu Dhabi

The Shangri-La has transformed its outdoor pool area into a lovely dining venue with tables and plush couches, plus soothing lighting. The culinary stations serve regional cuisine plus an array of healthy seafood dishes.

8.30pm-2am; Dh100 minimum spend; Khor Al Maqta; 02 509 8555

Sultan tent at St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

With Saadiyat Beach as its backdrop, this regal tent has Arabesque decor and motifs. A highlight of the a la carte menu is the range of Moroccan dishes such as traditional harira lentil soup and zaalouk, a zesty dip made from eggplant and garlic.

8pm-1am; a la carte rates; Al Saadiyat Island; 02 694 4553

Sim Sim at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

The resort’s main restaurant benefits from a courtyard overlooking a large tortoise-shaped pool, and it is a good option for those looking for an early suhoor meal.

Diners can have suhoor as an extension of the iftar service with a buffet and live stations spanning Middle Eastern, Emirati, Moroccan, Indian and Turkish cuisines. Alternatively, an a la carte suhoor menu is on offer from 10.30pm to 1am.

6.30pm-10.30pm; Dh275 for adults and Dh125 for children; Al Saadiyat Island; 02 697 0000

Suhoors in Dubai

Amaseena Dubai at Ritz Carlton, Dubai

The ambient vibes of Amaseena at Ritz Carlton Dubai
The ambient vibes of Amaseena at Ritz Carlton Dubai

Suhoors don't get more intimate than at this beachside space at the Dubai resort.

Opened until summer, Asameena serves a variety of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine made with a gourmet touch. Expect dishes such as the chicken shawarma platter, mezzes and hot cheesy knafas.

9pm-1am; 04 318 6150; dine.dubai@ritzcarlton.com

Al Sultan Majlis, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Set amid the opulent Ottoman-esque vibe of the Palm Jumeirah resort, the Sultan Tent is a lovely spot for family gatherings with a wide selection of sharing dishes and platters. A stand out is the chicken fettah and Batata Harra, a spicy Lebanese-style potato dish.

8.30pm-3am; Dh250 per person, 04 453 0444; jzsrestaurants@jumeirah.com

The Terrace at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

A curated set menu is on offer at The Terrace at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Photo: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
A curated set menu is on offer at The Terrace at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Photo: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

This is a luxurious and elegant suhoor held amid the pools and cabanas of The Terrace. The generous set menu is well curated with its mix of Mediterranean and Levant-inspired dishes from the baby mozzarella salad and grilled prawns to chicken biryani and fried kibbeh.

Make sure to order the seasonal fruit cocktails made exclusively for suhoor such as the Royal Arab (blackcurrant and raspberry) and the Camel Tini, a sweet treat with camel milk, saffron and rosewater.

9pm-2am; Dh299 per person; Umm Suqeim 3; 800 323 232

Palace Courtyard at One&Only Royal Mirage

The set menu at Palace Courtyard. Photo: One&Only Royal Mirage
The set menu at Palace Courtyard. Photo: One&Only Royal Mirage

In terms of ambience, the Palace Courtyard is hard to beat. Dozens of Moroccan lanterns surround the open-air venue as diners enjoy a Middle Eastern set menu under a canopy of palm trees.

The atmosphere is further enhanced by a wonderful three-piece band performing classic Arabic folk songs. While there are no surprises on the menu, the mixed grill dish is well-seasoned and the traditional dips, including hummus and baba ghanoush, are fresh and zesty.

The Palace Courtyard is ideal for an intimate gathering of friends.

9.30pm-2am; Dh195 per person; King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, Dubai Marina; 04 315 2412

Ramadan Majlis, Dubai World Trade Centre

Enjoy suhoor in the Ramadan Majlis at Dubai World Trade Centre. The extensive selection features more than 70 dishes. Dine in the main majlis, or book one of the private majlises or gazebos for groups. The menu includes lamb arayes, chicken tikka and freshly grilled prawns and lobster.

Sunday to Thursday, 9pm-3am; Friday and Satursday, 9pm-4am; Dh140 minimum spend; 800 3982; majlis.ae

Ramadan Garden at Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a low-key spot to dine while enjoying a panoramic view of Burj Al Arab. The Ramadan Garden serves an a la carte menu of Middle Eastern cuisine.

9pm-3am; Dh195 minimum spend; jumeirah.com

Ramadan Hikayat Garden at Palazzo Versace Dubai

Ramadan Hikayat Garden at Palazzo Versace Dubai resembles a garden party. Courtesy: Palazzo Versace Dubai
Ramadan Hikayat Garden at Palazzo Versace Dubai resembles a garden party. Courtesy: Palazzo Versace Dubai

A suhoor in the form of an elegant, al fresco garden party is on offer by the stylish resort. A live band will perform regional folk classics, while the set menu inspired by the Levant, Iran and India.

The standout dish is Kashmiri spinach yakunin, a zesty and creamy spinach stew cooked with yoghurt, spices and garlic. Also worth checking out is the Iranian lamb kebab with aromatic saffron rice and pine nuts.

With dervish dancers whizzing by and staff serving Turkish coffee and ice cream from live stations, the whole affair is a feast for the senses.

9pm-3am; Dh250 minimum spend per person and Dh2,000 minimum spend for sofa seating; Jaddaf Waterfront; palazzoversace.ae

Asateer Tent at Atlantis, The Palm

After last year’s successful expansion, Dubai's popular Asateer Tent returns with an adjoining terrace area. The casual arena is ideal for groups of friends indulging in conversation and card games. A blue shawl is provided if the weather gets chilly. For a more cosy atmosphere, check out the indoor dining ballroom that is positively lush with chandeliers and Arabian motifs.

The a la carte menu focuses on regional cuisine and desserts, but is expansive enough to cater various tastes, ranging from shawarma platters to grilled sea bream.

10pm-3am; Dh180 minimum spend; Palm Jumeirah; asateer@atlantisthepalm.com

Majlis at Bulgari Resort Dubai

The Majlis at Bulgari Resort Dubai has a new terrace location. Courtesy: Bulgari Resort Dubai
The Majlis at Bulgari Resort Dubai has a new terrace location. Courtesy: Bulgari Resort Dubai

Suhoor has a new location in this stylish resort, laid out on the terrace of the private marina this year. The food offerings are exceptional in terms of quality and variety.

For those looking for something more than standard Middle Eastern grilled meats and dips, there is a live cooking station serving fresh pasta and buttery risotto.

Mediterranean flair can also be found in the salad station where a range of cheeses, including fresh burrata, are served alongside vegetable and bresaola-stuffed paninis.

10pm-2am; Dh300 minimum spend; Jumeirah Bay Island; 04 777 5433

Ramadan Garden at Fairmont The Palm

The suhoor at Fairuz Garden overlooks Palm West Beach. Photo: Fairmont the Palm
The suhoor at Fairuz Garden overlooks Palm West Beach. Photo: Fairmont the Palm

Situated in the resort’s Fairuz Garden overlooking Palm West Beach, the outdoor suhoor is charming and intimate.

Against the backdrop of an oud musician singing celebrated numbers from the Levant folk songbook, you can sit on couches or tables and indulge in an a la carte menu featuring grills, pasta and pizza dishes.

A highlight is the Middle Eastern mixed grill, which is perfect for two people and comes with tangy house-made spicy sauce. This is also the place to go if you like your kunafa decadently cheesy.

9pm-3am; Dh125 minimum spend; Palm Jumeirah; 04 426 2626

What is the FNC?

The Federal National Council is one of five federal authorities established by the UAE constitution. It held its first session on December 2, 1972, a year to the day after Federation.
It has 40 members, eight of whom are women. The members represent the UAE population through each of the emirates. Abu Dhabi and Dubai have eight members each, Sharjah and Ras al Khaimah six, and Ajman, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain have four.
They bring Emirati issues to the council for debate and put those concerns to ministers summoned for questioning. 
The FNC’s main functions include passing, amending or rejecting federal draft laws, discussing international treaties and agreements, and offering recommendations on general subjects raised during sessions.
Federal draft laws must first pass through the FNC for recommendations when members can amend the laws to suit the needs of citizens. The draft laws are then forwarded to the Cabinet for consideration and approval. 
Since 2006, half of the members have been elected by UAE citizens to serve four-year terms and the other half are appointed by the Ruler’s Courts of the seven emirates.
In the 2015 elections, 78 of the 252 candidates were women. Women also represented 48 per cent of all voters and 67 per cent of the voters were under the age of 40.
 

British Grand Prix free practice times in the third and final session at Silverstone on Saturday (top five):

1. Lewis Hamilton (GBR/Mercedes) 1:28.063 (18 laps)

2. Sebastian Vettel (GER/Ferrari) 1:28.095 (14)

3. Valtteri Bottas (FIN/Mercedes) 1:28.137 (20)

4. Kimi Raikkonen (FIN/Ferrari) 1:28.732 (15)

5. Nico Hulkenberg (GER/Renault)  1:29.480 (14)

MATCH INFO

Kolkata Knight Riders 245/6 (20 ovs)
Kings XI Punjab 214/8 (20 ovs)

Kolkata won by 31 runs

ASHES SCHEDULE

First Test
November 23-27 (The Gabba, Brisbane)
Second Test
December 2-6 (Adelaide Oval, Adelaide)
Third Test
December 14-18 (Waca Ground, Perth)
Fourth Test
December 26-30 (Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne)
Fifth Test
January 4-8, 2018 (Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney)

WHEN TO GO:

September to November or March to May; this is when visitors are most likely to see what they’ve come for.

WHERE TO STAY:

Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari - Chitwan National Park resort (tajhotels.com) is a one-hour drive from Bharatpur Airport with stays costing from Dh1,396 per night, including taxes and breakfast. Return airport transfers cost from Dh661.

HOW TO GET THERE:

Etihad Airways regularly flies from Abu Dhabi to Kathmandu from around Dh1,500 per person return, including taxes. Buddha Air (buddhaair.com) and Yeti Airlines (yetiairlines.com) fly from Kathmandu to Bharatpur several times a day from about Dh660 return and the flight takes just 20 minutes. Driving is possible but the roads are hilly which means it will take you five or six hours to travel 148 kilometres.

FIXTURES

Thursday
Dibba v Al Dhafra, Fujairah Stadium (5pm)
Al Wahda v Hatta, Al Nahyan Stadium (8pm)

Friday
Al Nasr v Ajman, Zabeel Stadium (5pm)
Al Jazria v Al Wasl, Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium (8pm)

Saturday
Emirates v Al Ain, Emirates Club Stadium (5pm)
Sharjah v Shabab Al Ahli Dubai, Sharjah Stadium (8pm)

Fixtures

Tuesday - 5.15pm: Team Lebanon v Alger Corsaires; 8.30pm: Abu Dhabi Storms v Pharaohs

Wednesday - 5.15pm: Pharaohs v Carthage Eagles; 8.30pm: Alger Corsaires v Abu Dhabi Storms

Thursday - 4.30pm: Team Lebanon v Pharaohs; 7.30pm: Abu Dhabi Storms v Carthage Eagles

Friday - 4.30pm: Pharaohs v Alger Corsaires; 7.30pm: Carthage Eagles v Team Lebanon

Saturday - 4.30pm: Carthage Eagles v Alger Corsaires; 7.30pm: Abu Dhabi Storms v Team Lebanon

How Filipinos in the UAE invest

A recent survey of 10,000 Filipino expatriates in the UAE found that 82 per cent have plans to invest, primarily in property. This is significantly higher than the 2014 poll showing only two out of 10 Filipinos planned to invest.

Fifty-five percent said they plan to invest in property, according to the poll conducted by the New Perspective Media Group, organiser of the Philippine Property and Investment Exhibition. Acquiring a franchised business or starting up a small business was preferred by 25 per cent and 15 per cent said they will invest in mutual funds. The rest said they are keen to invest in insurance (3 per cent) and gold (2 per cent).

Of the 5,500 respondents who preferred property as their primary investment, 54 per cent said they plan to make the purchase within the next year. Manila was the top location, preferred by 53 per cent.

About Krews

Founder: Ahmed Al Qubaisi

Based: Abu Dhabi

Founded: January 2019

Number of employees: 10

Sector: Technology/Social media 

Funding to date: Estimated $300,000 from Hub71 in-kind support

 

Ms Yang's top tips for parents new to the UAE
  1. Join parent networks
  2. Look beyond school fees
  3. Keep an open mind
What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE

Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Supports heart health and reduces inflammation, especially for those who consume little fish.

Fanney Khan

Producer: T-Series, Anil Kapoor Productions, ROMP, Prerna Arora

Director: Atul Manjrekar

Cast: Anil Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai, Rajkummar Rao, Pihu Sand

Rating: 2/5 

2018 ICC World Twenty20 Asian Western Sub Regional Qualifier

Event info: The tournament in Kuwait this month is the first phase of the qualifying process for sides from Asia for the 2020 World T20 in Australia. The UAE must finish within the top three teams out of the six at the competition to advance to the Asia regional finals. Success at regional finals would mean progression to the World T20 Qualifier.

UAE’s fixtures: Fri Apr 20, UAE v Qatar; Sat Apr 21, UAE v Saudi Arabia; Mon Apr 23, UAE v Bahrain; Tue Apr 24, UAE v Maldives; Thu Apr 26, UAE v Kuwait

World T20 2020 Qualifying process:

  • Sixteen teams will play at the World T20 in two years’ time.
  • Australia have already qualified as hosts
  • Nine places are available to the top nine ranked sides in the ICC’s T20i standings, not including Australia, on Dec 31, 2018.
  • The final six teams will be decided by a 14-team World T20 Qualifier.

World T20 standings: 1 Pakistan; 2 Australia; 3 India; 4 New Zealand; 5 England; 6 South Africa; 7 West Indies; 8 Sri Lanka; 9 Afghanistan; 10 Bangladesh; 11 Scotland; 12 Zimbabwe; 13 UAE; 14 Netherlands; 15 Hong Kong; 16 Papua New Guinea; 17 Oman; 18 Ireland

The chef's advice

Troy Payne, head chef at Abu Dhabi’s newest healthy eatery Sanderson’s in Al Seef Resort & Spa, says singles need to change their mindset about how they approach the supermarket.

“They feel like they can’t buy one cucumber,” he says. “But I can walk into a shop – I feed two people at home – and I’ll walk into a shop and I buy one cucumber, I’ll buy one onion.”

Mr Payne asks for the sticker to be placed directly on each item, rather than face the temptation of filling one of the two-kilogram capacity plastic bags on offer.

The chef also advises singletons not get too hung up on “organic”, particularly high-priced varieties that have been flown in from far-flung locales. Local produce is often grown sustainably, and far cheaper, he says.

Match info

Uefa Champions League Group B

Tottenham Hotspur 1 (Eriksen 80')
Inter Milan 0

Fifa Club World Cup quarter-final

Kashima Antlers 3 (Nagaki 49’, Serginho 69’, Abe 84’)
Guadalajara 2 (Zaldivar 03’, Pulido 90')

SNAPSHOT

While Huawei did launch the first smartphone with a 50MP image sensor in its P40 series in 2020, Oppo in 2014 introduced the Find 7, which was capable of taking 50MP images: this was done using a combination of a 13MP sensor and software that resulted in shots seemingly taken from a 50MP camera.

WHAT%20MACRO%20FACTORS%20ARE%20IMPACTING%20META%20TECH%20MARKETS%3F
%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20Looming%20global%20slowdown%20and%20recession%20in%20key%20economies%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20Russia-Ukraine%20war%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20Interest%20rate%20hikes%20and%20the%20rising%20cost%20of%20debt%20servicing%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20Oil%20price%20volatility%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20Persisting%20inflationary%20pressures%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20Exchange%20rate%20fluctuations%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20Shortage%20of%20labour%2Fskills%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%E2%80%A2%20A%20resurgence%20of%20Covid%3F%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
RESULTS

5pm Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (Turf) 1,600m

Winner Thabet Al Reef, Bernardo Pinheiro (jockey), Abdallah Al Hammadi (trainer)

5.30pm Handicap (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,600m

Winner Blue Diamond, Pat Cosgrave, Abdallah Al Hammadi

6pm Arabian Triple Crown Round-1 Listed (PA) Dh230,000 (T) 1,600m

Winner Hameem, Adrie de Vries, Abdallah Al Hammadi

6.30pm Wathba Stallions Cup Handicap (PA) Dh70,000 (T) 1,400m

Winner Shoja’A Muscat, Szczepan Mazur, Ibrahim Al Hadhrami

7pm Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,200m

Winner Heros De Lagarde, Szczepan Mazur, Ibrahim Al Hadhrami

7.30pm Handicap (TB) Dh100,000 (T) 2,400m

Winner Good Tidings, Antonio Fresu, Musabah Al Muhairi

Ruwais timeline

1971 Abu Dhabi National Oil Company established

1980 Ruwais Housing Complex built, located 10 kilometres away from industrial plants

1982 120,000 bpd capacity Ruwais refinery complex officially inaugurated by the founder of the UAE Sheikh Zayed

1984 Second phase of Ruwais Housing Complex built. Today the 7,000-unit complex houses some 24,000 people.  

1985 The refinery is expanded with the commissioning of a 27,000 b/d hydro cracker complex

2009 Plans announced to build $1.2 billion fertilizer plant in Ruwais, producing urea

2010 Adnoc awards $10bn contracts for expansion of Ruwais refinery, to double capacity from 415,000 bpd

2014 Ruwais 261-outlet shopping mall opens

2014 Production starts at newly expanded Ruwais refinery, providing jet fuel and diesel and allowing the UAE to be self-sufficient for petrol supplies

2014 Etihad Rail begins transportation of sulphur from Shah and Habshan to Ruwais for export

2017 Aldar Academies to operate Adnoc’s schools including in Ruwais from September. Eight schools operate in total within the housing complex.

2018 Adnoc announces plans to invest $3.1 billion on upgrading its Ruwais refinery 

2018 NMC Healthcare selected to manage operations of Ruwais Hospital

2018 Adnoc announces new downstream strategy at event in Abu Dhabi on May 13

Source: The National

SRI LANKA SQUAD

Upul Tharanga (captain), Dinesh Chandimal, Niroshan Dickwella
Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Milinda Siriwardana
Chamara Kapugedara, Thisara Perera, Seekuge Prasanna
Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal, Dushmantha Chameera
Vishwa Fernando, Akila Dananjaya, Jeffrey Vandersay

Lexus LX700h specs

Engine: 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 plus supplementary electric motor

Power: 464hp at 5,200rpm

Torque: 790Nm from 2,000-3,600rpm

Transmission: 10-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 11.7L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh590,000

Company profile

Company name: Dharma

Date started: 2018

Founders: Charaf El Mansouri, Nisma Benani, Leah Howe

Based: Abu Dhabi

Sector: TravelTech

Funding stage: Pre-series A 

Investors: Convivialite Ventures, BY Partners, Shorooq Partners, L& Ventures, Flat6Labs

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

RESULTS

5pm: Rated Conditions (PA) Dh85,000 (Turf) 1,600m
Winner: AF Mouthirah, Tadhg O’Shea (jockey), Ernst Oertel (trainer)

5.30pm: Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,400m
Winner: AF Alajaj, Tadhg O’Shea, Ernst Oertel

6pm: Wathba Stallions Cup Handicap (PA) Dh70,000 (T) 1,400m
Winner: Hawafez, Connor Beasley, Abubakar Daud

6.30pm: Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 2,200m
Winner: Tair, Fabrice Veron, Eric Lemartinel

7pm: Handicap (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 2,200m
Winner: Wakeel W’Rsan, Richard Mullen, Jaci Wickham

7.30pm: Handicap (PA) Dh100,000 (T) 2,400m
Winner: Son Of Normandy, Fernando Jara, Ahmad bin Harmash

Getting there
Flydubai flies direct from Dubai to Tbilisi from Dh1,025 return including taxes

The specs: 2018 Jeep Compass

Price, base: Dh100,000 (estimate)

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder

Transmission: Nine-speed automatic

Power: 184bhp at 6,400rpm

Torque: 237Nm at 3,900rpm

Fuel economy, combined: 9.4L / 100km

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
ALRAWABI%20SCHOOL%20FOR%20GIRLS
%3Cp%3ECreator%3A%20Tima%20Shomali%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3EStarring%3A%C2%A0Tara%20Abboud%2C%C2%A0Kira%20Yaghnam%2C%20Tara%20Atalla%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3ERating%3A%204%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
MATCH INFO

CAF Champions League semi-finals first-leg fixtures

Tuesday:

Primeiro Agosto (ANG) v Esperance (TUN) (8pm UAE)
Al Ahly (EGY) v Entente Setif (ALG) (11PM)

Second legs:

October 23

Dust and sand storms compared

Sand storm

  • Particle size: Larger, heavier sand grains
  • Visibility: Often dramatic with thick "walls" of sand
  • Duration: Short-lived, typically localised
  • Travel distance: Limited 
  • Source: Open desert areas with strong winds

Dust storm

  • Particle size: Much finer, lightweight particles
  • Visibility: Hazy skies but less intense
  • Duration: Can linger for days
  • Travel distance: Long-range, up to thousands of kilometres
  • Source: Can be carried from distant regions
Our family matters legal consultant

Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais

Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.

SECRET%20INVASION
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UPI facts

More than 2.2 million Indian tourists arrived in UAE in 2023
More than 3.5 million Indians reside in UAE
Indian tourists can make purchases in UAE using rupee accounts in India through QR-code-based UPI real-time payment systems
Indian residents in UAE can use their non-resident NRO and NRE accounts held in Indian banks linked to a UAE mobile number for UPI transactions

If you go

The flights

Fly direct to London from the UAE with Etihad, Emirates, British Airways or Virgin Atlantic from about Dh2,500 return including taxes. 

The hotel

Rooms at the convenient and art-conscious Andaz London Liverpool Street cost from £167 (Dh800) per night including taxes.

The tour

The Shoreditch Street Art Tour costs from £15 (Dh73) per person for approximately three hours. 

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Our legal consultant

Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais

Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.

RESULT

Wolves 1 (Traore 67')

Tottenham 2 (Moura 8', Vertonghen 90 1')

Man of the Match: Adama Traore (Wolves)

The bio:

Favourite holiday destination: I really enjoyed Sri Lanka and Vietnam but my dream destination is the Maldives.

Favourite food: My mum’s Chinese cooking.

Favourite film: Robocop, followed by The Terminator.

Hobbies: Off-roading, scuba diving, playing squash and going to the gym.

 

What should do investors do now?

What does the S&P 500's new all-time high mean for the average investor? 

Should I be euphoric?

No. It's fine to be pleased about hearty returns on your investments. But it's not a good idea to tie your emotions closely to the ups and downs of the stock market. You'll get tired fast. This market moment comes on the heels of last year's nosedive. And it's not the first or last time the stock market will make a dramatic move.

So what happened?

It's more about what happened last year. Many of the concerns that triggered that plunge towards the end of last have largely been quelled. The US and China are slowly moving toward a trade agreement. The Federal Reserve has indicated it likely will not raise rates at all in 2019 after seven recent increases. And those changes, along with some strong earnings reports and broader healthy economic indicators, have fueled some optimism in stock markets.

"The panic in the fourth quarter was based mostly on fears," says Brent Schutte, chief investment strategist for Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company. "The fundamentals have mostly held up, while the fears have gone away and the fears were based mostly on emotion."

Should I buy? Should I sell?

Maybe. It depends on what your long-term investment plan is. The best advice is usually the same no matter the day — determine your financial goals, make a plan to reach them and stick to it.

"I would encourage (investors) not to overreact to highs, just as I would encourage them not to overreact to the lows of December," Mr Schutte says.

All the same, there are some situations in which you should consider taking action. If you think you can't live through another low like last year, the time to get out is now. If the balance of assets in your portfolio is out of whack thanks to the rise of the stock market, make adjustments. And if you need your money in the next five to 10 years, it shouldn't be in stocks anyhow. But for most people, it's also a good time to just leave things be.

Resist the urge to abandon the diversification of your portfolio, Mr Schutte cautions. It may be tempting to shed other investments that aren't performing as well, such as some international stocks, but diversification is designed to help steady your performance over time.

Will the rally last?

No one knows for sure. But David Bailin, chief investment officer at Citi Private Bank, expects the US market could move up 5 per cent to 7 per cent more over the next nine to 12 months, provided the Fed doesn't raise rates and earnings growth exceeds current expectations. We are in a late cycle market, a period when US equities have historically done very well, but volatility also rises, he says.

"This phase can last six months to several years, but it's important clients remain invested and not try to prematurely position for a contraction of the market," Mr Bailin says. "Doing so would risk missing out on important portfolio returns."

The biog

Favourite Quote: “Real victories are those that protect human life, not those that result from its destruction emerge from its ashes,” by The late king Hussain of Jordan.

Favourite Hobby: Writing and cooking

Favourite Book: The Prophet by Gibran Khalil Gibran

if you go

The flights Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, Emirates, Etihad, and Royal Jordanian all offer direct, three-and-a-half-hour flights from the UAE to the Jordanian capital Amman. Alternatively, from June Fly Dubai will offer a new direct service from Dubai to Aqaba in the south of the country. See the airlines’ respective sites for varying prices or search on reliable price-comparison site Skyscanner.

The trip 

Jamie Lafferty was a guest of the Jordan Tourist Board. For more information on adventure tourism in Jordan see Visit Jordan. A number of new and established tour companies offer the chance to go caving, rock-climbing, canyoning, and mountaineering in Jordan. Prices vary depending on how many activities you want to do and how many days you plan to stay in the country. Among the leaders are Terhaal, who offer a two-day canyoning trip from Dh845 per person. If you really want to push your limits, contact the Stronger Team. For a more trek-focused trip, KE Adventure offers an eight-day trip from Dh5,300 per person.

Updated: April 06, 2024, 11:42 AM