A new boutique cycling studio is coming to Abu Dhabi.
Crank, a popular indoor spinning and fitness studio in Dubai, is opening a new branch in the capital, at Sheikha Fatima Park, near the Corniche. Known for its lively cycling classes and club-like atmosphere, Crank Abu Dhabi launches on Friday.
The fitness studio will offer 45-minute spinning classes throughout the day – including ladies-only sessions. While the facility is listed as being open from 6.30am to 10pm, it is worth checking the schedule online, as these hours may be subject to change.
Crank Abu Dhabi will feature a state-of-the-art nightclub sound system, lights that will “blow your mind”, as well as some surprise features that are yet to be revealed, says the company.
Spread over two floors, there’s also smoothie bar, in case guests want to grab a drink before or after a class. More than just a place to work out, there’s also a hangout space on the second floor, as well as men and women’s changing rooms.
“Crank is a boutique fitness concept where members can come together to train, sweat, recharge and disconnect from their daily lives in a welcoming, enjoyable and engaging environment,” says the company website.
“Our instructors are energetic, fun and above all inspiring. They will push you to their limits and redefine your threshold, so come with an open mind and let yourself get lost in the beat.”
Currently, the studio offers one trial session for Dh60 ($16.3), while regular packages begin at Dh120 and are valid for two months. There are also monthly memberships which allow for 30 sessions for Dh1,800, valid for 30 days.
Crank Abu Dhabi is another new addition to the fitness scene in the capital. GymNation and Train SF are two other outlets that have also opened locations in Abu Dhabi in the past couple of years.
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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
