Since the Covid-19 pandemic, remote working has been embraced by more and more companies – with some employing hybrid set-ups and others completely abandoning thoughts of returning to the office.
The UAE has a plethora of good options for digital nomads and those seeking a change of scenery. From cozy coffee shops to scenic outdoor settings, here are some places to consider.
Dubai
One Life Kitchen and Cafe
The expansive and tastefully decorated Dubai Design District branch of this cafe is popular with remote workers. Open until 11pm, it is ideal for those who are more productive in the evenings. The licensed venue also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Open daily; 8am-11pm; Dubai Design District; 04 513 4727
Tom & Serg
A concept by EatX, this two-level space in Al Quoz offers a spacious haven for remote workers. The Melbourne-style cafe seats up to 250 people. Several power outlets are scattered across the venue and the open-plan layout makes for an energised workday with plenty of natural light coming in. On the menu are artisanal coffees, plus big and small bites.
Open Monday to Friday, 8am-4pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 8am-6pm; Al Joud Center, Al Quoz; 056 474 6812
Mitts and Trays
An ideal spot for those looking to take their team out for a working lunch or for client meetings, Mitts and Trays also serves a full menu – from classic breakfast delights to hearty lunch and dinner meals. There are two branches in the emirate: Dubai Hills Mall and Bluewaters Island.
Open Sunday to Thursday, 8am-11.30pm, and Friday and Saturday, 8am-noon; Dubai Hills Mall (04 457 0406) and Bluewaters Island (04 223 6808)
Juan Valdez
Those who can't work without sipping good coffee can head to this Colombian spot. Originally from Bogota, Juan Valdez serves about 30 coffee options. It also has a food menu with freshly baked goods, sandwiches, salads and other sweet treats. The three-storey venue includes a co-working space on the second floor, and there is also an open rooftop for the cooler months.
Open daily, 8am-11pm; Jumeirah 2; 04 324 2938
The Lime Tree Cafe & Kitchen, Jumeirah
A familiar neighbourhood cafe in Jumeirah among long-time Dubai residents, this cafe makes for a productive workspace. Comfortable couches and sturdy tables are peppered across the venue, which has an industrial-chic ambience. The food range includes wholesome dishes, pastries and coffee options.
Open daily, 7.30am-6pm; Jumeirah Beach Road; 04 325 6325
Splendour Fields
Nestled in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Splendour Fields at The Park is for those looking to work amid a peaceful garden-style atmosphere. Also an ideal venue for out-of-office team catch-ups or client meetings, the cafe and restaurant serves an all-day breakfast menu, alongside healthy smoothies, shakes and freshly brewed coffee.
Open daily, 8am-7pm; Jumeirah Lakes Towers; 056 603 0897
Sereni-tea by Tania's Teahouse
This teahouse located inside Keyani wellness centre has a serene and calm environment. A sister branch of Tania’s Teahouse, the cafe is ideal for those who seeking out a much-needed change of scenery. There is a wide range of loose teas and organic dishes.
Open daily, 8am-6pm; Al Manara; 058 598 2642
La Nena
The cavernous and extremely cozy interior at La Nena offer a great vibe, thanks to its tasteful stonework, natural textures and earthy colours. The warm ambience and minimalist surroundings are great for a quiet sit-down, answering emails and staying inspired. Specialty coffee is on the menu, as well as pastries, salads and sandwiches. The other half of the shop sells a collection of homeware.
Open daily, 8am-10pm; Al Quoz, 058 570 0809
Abu Dhabi
Mysk
A bustling cafe within NYU Abu Dhabi, Mysk is set up to inspire productivity and creativity. The display of baked treats add charm to the venue, and the flower bar brims with colour. Long communal tables fixed with power sockets are ideal for remote working.
Open Monday to Friday, 7am-10pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 8am-10pm; Saadiyat Island; 02 626 9343
Joud Coffee
This coffee shop brand has several branches across Abu Dhabi, making it a popular choice for those looking for a chilled spot to work and even study. The original Al Bateen location is still popular, with a homely and calm aesthetic. The cafe serves an all-day breakfast menu, as well as a selection of salads, soups and a few hearty mains, from coconut shrimp curry to butter chicken.
Open daily, 8am-11pm; Al Bateen, Al Seef, Khalifa City, Forsan Central Mall, Al Qana; 056 525 8235
Third Place Cafe
The friendly staff, reliable Wi-Fi and broad menu make this place popular among remote workers. Spread across two floors, the villa-turned-cafe near the Corniche bills itself as a community space. It has comfortable seating and plenty of space for big working groups. A selection of preloved books are sold on-site.
Open daily, 8am-11pm; Corniche Road; 02 681 1877
Coffee Architecture
Located at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, this cafe is suited to those who want to be close to the beach while ticking off their to-do lists. Emirati founder Nooran Albannay's love for coffee is evident, with a variety of specialities on the menu. The long tables are perfect for big groups. Comfortable seating options are also available for solo workers.
Open Sunday to Thursday, 9am-10pm, and Friday and Saturday, 9am-midnight; Mamsha Al Sadiyaat; 055 446 3433
Nowhere
This venue's minimalist and cosy decor focuses on natural elements, which make it an Instagram-worthy choice for remote workers. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow plenty of light in. Classic breakfast dishes and a range of sweet treats are on the menu, as are mocktails, coffee and tea.
Open daily, 11am-11pm; Yas Marina Circuit; 056 300 0533
Cartel Coffee Roasters
Warmth and coziness are the main draws of this coffee shop, which has branches in Al Bateen, Al Qana and Khalifa City (as well as a new venue in Dubai). Coffee beans are roasted in-house and sold on-site, while the menu offers all-day breakfast dishes, plus pastries and baked goods.
Open Monday to Friday, 6am-11pm and Saturday to Sunday, 7.30am-11.30am; Al Bateen, Al Qana, Khalifa City, Mirdiff in Dubai; 02 666 2002
Countries recognising Palestine
France, UK, Canada, Australia, Portugal, Belgium, Malta, Luxembourg, San Marino and Andorra
Specs
Engine: Electric motor generating 54.2kWh (Cooper SE and Aceman SE), 64.6kW (Countryman All4 SE)
Power: 218hp (Cooper and Aceman), 313hp (Countryman)
Torque: 330Nm (Cooper and Aceman), 494Nm (Countryman)
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh158,000 (Cooper), Dh168,000 (Aceman), Dh190,000 (Countryman)
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.
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
In-demand jobs and monthly salaries
- Technology expert in robotics and automation: Dh20,000 to Dh40,000
- Energy engineer: Dh25,000 to Dh30,000
- Production engineer: Dh30,000 to Dh40,000
- Data-driven supply chain management professional: Dh30,000 to Dh50,000
- HR leader: Dh40,000 to Dh60,000
- Engineering leader: Dh30,000 to Dh55,000
- Project manager: Dh55,000 to Dh65,000
- Senior reservoir engineer: Dh40,000 to Dh55,000
- Senior drilling engineer: Dh38,000 to Dh46,000
- Senior process engineer: Dh28,000 to Dh38,000
- Senior maintenance engineer: Dh22,000 to Dh34,000
- Field engineer: Dh6,500 to Dh7,500
- Field supervisor: Dh9,000 to Dh12,000
- Field operator: Dh5,000 to Dh7,000
GAC GS8 Specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo
Power: 248hp at 5,200rpm
Torque: 400Nm at 1,750-4,000rpm
Transmission: 8-speed auto
Fuel consumption: 9.1L/100km
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh149,900
Desert Warrior
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Ben Kingsley
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Rating: 3/5
The 12 breakaway clubs
England
Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur
Italy
AC Milan, Inter Milan, Juventus
Spain
Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, Real Madrid
How to wear a kandura
Dos
- Wear the right fabric for the right season and occasion
- Always ask for the dress code if you don’t know
- Wear a white kandura, white ghutra / shemagh (headwear) and black shoes for work
- Wear 100 per cent cotton under the kandura as most fabrics are polyester
Don’ts
- Wear hamdania for work, always wear a ghutra and agal
- Buy a kandura only based on how it feels; ask questions about the fabric and understand what you are buying
UAE squad
Humaira Tasneem (c), Chamani Senevirathne (vc), Subha Srinivasan, NIsha Ali, Udeni Kuruppuarachchi, Chaya Mughal, Roopa Nagraj, Esha Oza, Ishani Senevirathne, Heena Hotchandani, Keveesha Kumari, Judith Cleetus, Chavi Bhatt, Namita D’Souza.
Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
- Specialist robotics and science laboratories
- AR and VR-enabled learning centres
- Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
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THE BIO
Ambition: To create awareness among young about people with disabilities and make the world a more inclusive place
Job Title: Human resources administrator, Expo 2020 Dubai
First jobs: Co-ordinator with Magrudy Enterprises; HR coordinator at Jumeirah Group
Entrepreneur: Started his own graphic design business
Favourite singer: Avril Lavigne
Favourite travel destination: Germany and Saudi Arabia
Family: Six sisters
BUNDESLIGA FIXTURES
Friday (UAE kick-off times)
Cologne v Hoffenheim (11.30pm)
Saturday
Hertha Berlin v RB Leipzig (6.30pm)
Schalke v Fortuna Dusseldof (6.30pm)
Mainz v Union Berlin (6.30pm)
Paderborn v Augsburg (6.30pm)
Bayern Munich v Borussia Dortmund (9.30pm)
Sunday
Borussia Monchengladbach v Werder Bremen (4.30pm)
Wolfsburg v Bayer Leverkusen (6.30pm)
SC Freiburg v Eintracht Frankfurt (9on)
