• Albania. Courtesy Yves Alarie / Unsplash
    Albania. Courtesy Yves Alarie / Unsplash
  • Béjaïa, Algeria. Unsplash/ Walid Amghar
    Béjaïa, Algeria. Unsplash/ Walid Amghar
  • Armenia. Unsplash
    Armenia. Unsplash
  • Australia
    Australia
  • Austria. Joss Woodhead / Unsplash
    Austria. Joss Woodhead / Unsplash
  • Baku, Azerbaijan. Unsplash/ Lloyd Alozie
    Baku, Azerbaijan. Unsplash/ Lloyd Alozie
  • Manama, Bahrain. Charles Adrien Fournier / Unsplash
    Manama, Bahrain. Charles Adrien Fournier / Unsplash
  • National Library of Belarus, Minsk. Unsplash/ Eugene Krasnaok
    National Library of Belarus, Minsk. Unsplash/ Eugene Krasnaok
  • Bruges, Belgium. Olivier Depaep / Unsplash
    Bruges, Belgium. Olivier Depaep / Unsplash
  • Višegrad, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Unsplash/ Luka Korica
    Višegrad, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Unsplash/ Luka Korica
  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Unsplash/ Agustin Diaz Gargiulo
    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Unsplash/ Agustin Diaz Gargiulo
  • Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Courtesy Deniz Fuchidzhiev / Unsplash
    Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Courtesy Deniz Fuchidzhiev / Unsplash
  • Angkor Wat, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Unsplash/ James Dickson
    Angkor Wat, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Unsplash/ James Dickson
  • Toronto, Canada. Alex Shutin / Unsplash
    Toronto, Canada. Alex Shutin / Unsplash
  • China
    China
  • Comoros. Photo: Michael Runkel /Robert Harding World Imagery / Corbis
    Comoros. Photo: Michael Runkel /Robert Harding World Imagery / Corbis
  • Croatia is welcoming travellers who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Unsplash
    Croatia is welcoming travellers who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Unsplash
  • Cyprus. Unsplash
    Cyprus. Unsplash
  • Prague. Czech Republic. Courtesy Lachlan Gowen / Unsplash
    Prague. Czech Republic. Courtesy Lachlan Gowen / Unsplash
  • Copenhagen, Denmark. REUTERS/Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen
    Copenhagen, Denmark. REUTERS/Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen
  • Finland Photo: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
    Finland Photo: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
  • Germany
    Germany
  • Greece. Courtesy Responsible Travel
    Greece. Courtesy Responsible Travel
  • Hong Kong
    Hong Kong
  • Budapest, Hungary. Ervin Lukacs / Unsplash
    Budapest, Hungary. Ervin Lukacs / Unsplash
  • Ireland is on the Abu Dhabi Green List again. Unsplash/Jason Murphy
    Ireland is on the Abu Dhabi Green List again. Unsplash/Jason Murphy
  • Italy. Photographer: Giuseppe Aresu/Bloomberg
    Italy. Photographer: Giuseppe Aresu/Bloomberg
  • Japan. Photo: iStockphoto.com
    Japan. Photo: iStockphoto.com
  • Jordan is welcoming travellers and is on the Abu Dhabi green list.
    Jordan is welcoming travellers and is on the Abu Dhabi green list.
  • Kuwait is on the Abu Dhabi Green List but entry for travellers remains severely restricted.. Photograph by Michele Nastasi
    Kuwait is on the Abu Dhabi Green List but entry for travellers remains severely restricted.. Photograph by Michele Nastasi
  • Kyrgyzstan. Photo: William Harbidge
    Kyrgyzstan. Photo: William Harbidge
  • Luxembourg. Photo: Airbnb
    Luxembourg. Photo: Airbnb
  • Maldives. Photo: Angsana Velavaru
    Maldives. Photo: Angsana Velavaru
  • Malta has been added back to the UAE Green List from August 18. Courtesy Unsplash/ Ference Hovarth
    Malta has been added back to the UAE Green List from August 18. Courtesy Unsplash/ Ference Hovarth
  • Mauritius. Courtesy Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority
    Mauritius. Courtesy Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority
  • Moldova. Courtesy Unsplash
    Moldova. Courtesy Unsplash
  • Monaco. Photo: Rosemary Behan
    Monaco. Photo: Rosemary Behan
  • Yangon, Myanmar. Unsplash/ Alexander Schimmeck
    Yangon, Myanmar. Unsplash/ Alexander Schimmeck
  • Rotterdam, The Netherlands.. Unsplash
    Rotterdam, The Netherlands.. Unsplash
  • New Zealand
    New Zealand
  • Norway's Pulpit Rock. Photo: Andreas Gruhle / visitnorway.com / Innovation Norway
    Norway's Pulpit Rock. Photo: Andreas Gruhle / visitnorway.com / Innovation Norway
  • Oman
    Oman
  • Gdansk, Poland. Courtesy Andrea Anastakis
    Gdansk, Poland. Courtesy Andrea Anastakis
  • Portugal. Photo: Bloomberg
    Portugal. Photo: Bloomberg
  • Qatar. Photo: Four Seasons
    Qatar. Photo: Four Seasons
  • Peles Castle, Romania. Courtesy Majkl Velner
    Peles Castle, Romania. Courtesy Majkl Velner
  • San Marino
    San Marino
  • Saudi Arabia
    Saudi Arabia
  • Karadordev Park in Belgrade, Serbia. Courtesy Dusan Pokusevski
    Karadordev Park in Belgrade, Serbia. Courtesy Dusan Pokusevski
  • Praslin, Seychelles. Tommaso Nervegna / Unsplash
    Praslin, Seychelles. Tommaso Nervegna / Unsplash
  • South Korea. Unsplash
    South Korea. Unsplash
  • Slovakia
    Slovakia
  • Lake Bled in Slovenia.
    Lake Bled in Slovenia.
  • Singapore
    Singapore
  • Travellers from Sweden can fly quarantine free to Abu Dhabi. Courtesy Unsplash/Anatoliy Gromov
    Travellers from Sweden can fly quarantine free to Abu Dhabi. Courtesy Unsplash/Anatoliy Gromov
  • Switzerland
    Switzerland
  • Taiwan
    Taiwan
  • Tajikistan
    Tajikistan
  • Istanbul, Turkey. Unsplash/ Meriç Dağlı
    Istanbul, Turkey. Unsplash/ Meriç Dağlı
  • Turkmenistan
    Turkmenistan
  • Ukraine. Courtesy Kate Nesmieian
    Ukraine. Courtesy Kate Nesmieian

Can I travel to the 23 new destinations added to Abu Dhabi's green list?


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  • Arabic

Abu Dhabi has updated its green list, with 22 new countries and destinations added to the list last week, and one more added on Sunday. This means there are now 56 destinations from where residents can travel without having to quarantine upon their return.

The Department of Culture and Tourism's website has been updated to reflect the changes, the latest of which come into effect after midnight on Monday.

Indonesia is the latest addition to the list and no destinations were removed in the most recent update. Last week, Abu Dhabi authorities also removed the requirement to quarantine on arrival for vaccinated travellers from all international destinations.

All travellers must take a PCR test before flying and on arrival, but only non-vaccinated travellers from non-green list countries will need to wear an electronic wrist tracker and isolate.

The updated Abu Dhabi green list

All the destinations on the Abu Dhabi green list:

  • Albania
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Bahrain
  • Belgium
  • Bhutan
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • China
  • Comoros
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hong Kong (SAR)
  • Hungary
  • Italy
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Luxembourg
  • Maldives
  • Malta
  • Mauritius
  • Moldova
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Oman
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Qatar
  • Republic of Ireland
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Serbia
  • Seychelles
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • South Korea
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan, Province of China
  • Tajikistan
  • Turkmenistan
  • Ukraine

Can I travel to the new places added to the green list?

Not all of the new additions on Abu Dhabi's green list are open for tourism. Travellers should check individual destination requirements for the most recent regulations as these can change regularly.

From the new countries and places added in the most recent update, travel is open to some destinations, with restrictions in place, while others remain closed for leisure travel.

Bhutan's borders are currently closed to foreign nationals and Comoros is open, but not for leisure travel.

Croatia is one new addition to the list that's a good holiday option. The country is welcoming vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers, and tourists who can present a valid certificate for full vaccination against Covid-19 have no further testing or quarantine requirements on arrival.

Croatia is open for travellers from the UAE. Photo: Assaf Pinchuk
Croatia is open for travellers from the UAE. Photo: Assaf Pinchuk

Unvaccinated travellers can fly to Croatia with a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before travel. All visitors must have pre-booked accommodation or own property in the country before flying. Travellers who do not show a negative PCR test or proof of vaccination will have to be tested on arrival and must self-isolate until a negative Covid-19 PCR test result is received, or for a period of 10 days if a test is not possible.

Cyprus is another option for holidays. Despite the Emirates being listed as 'red' by Cypriot authorities, the country is open to travellers from the UAE. All visitors must apply for a flight pass online to get clearance before departure.

Vaccinated travellers with a certificate proving they have received the final dose of any vaccine approved by the WHO or the European Medicines Agency at least 14 days before travel can fly to Cyprus with no further testing requirements. Unvaccinated travellers can also visit, so long as they submit negative Covid-19 test results taken no more than 72 hours before departure.

Denmark is open to travellers from some destinations, but currently lists the UAE as orange. This means non-citizens or residents flying to Denmark must have a compelling reason for travel, which does not include tourism. The same rule applies for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers.

Finland has reopened to vaccinated travellers from all destinations. Tourists planning to visit the Nordic country must have received all doses of an approved Covid-19 vaccine, which includes Sinopharm. The Fin Entry service has to be completed before travel, where information on what vaccine has been taken and when must be provided. Unvaccinated travellers can only visit Finland if they have an "essential reason" to do so, or are Finnish citizens or residents.

Finland has reopened to vaccinated travellers from all destinations. Photo: Rosemary Behan
Finland has reopened to vaccinated travellers from all destinations. Photo: Rosemary Behan

Holiday haven Greece is welcoming travellers from the UAE. The Mediterranean country is part of a vaccine corridor with the UAE and fully vaccinated travellers do not need to present a PCR test. Immunisation must have been achieved at least 14 days before flying to Greece. All travellers must also complete this form.

Non-vaccinated travellers can also fly to Greece so long as they take a Covid-19 PCR test within 72 hours before departure, or can present proof of recovery from Covid-19. There will also be on-arrival testing for unvaccinated travellers, but children under 12 are exempt.

Travel to Italy is open from the UAE for passengers travelling on Covid-tested flights, authorised by the Ministry of Health. This includes flights to Rome, Milan, Venice and Bologna from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Before departure, tourists must complete a digital passenger locator form, and register online for an on-arrival swab test, at their own expense. A Covid-19 PCR test must be taken no more than 48 hours before travel. Travellers cannot fly to Italy if they have been in India, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka in the previous 14 days. Once in Italy, a green certificate is needed to attend concerts, fairs, sports contests and to access some other public areas.

Deprived of their preferred food source - the bananas, peanuts and other goodies brought in by the tourists now kept away by the coronavirus - hungry monkeys on the resort island of Bali have taken to raiding villagers’ homes in the search for something tasty. AP Photo / Firdia Lisnawati
Deprived of their preferred food source - the bananas, peanuts and other goodies brought in by the tourists now kept away by the coronavirus - hungry monkeys on the resort island of Bali have taken to raiding villagers’ homes in the search for something tasty. AP Photo / Firdia Lisnawati

Indonesia was added to the Abu Dhabi green list on August 6, however international travel to the world's largest archipelago remains restricted. Bali, the country's holiday hotspot, had previously said it would reopen to tourists this year, but these plans have been postponed owing to rising Covid-19 cases on the island.

Japan is not yet open to travellers from the UAE.

Kyrgyzstan is welcoming travellers from some destinations, including the UAE. All travellers, including citizens of Kyrgyzstan, must present a printed copy of a negative Covid-19 PCR test result issued no more than 72 hours before departure or have a vaccination certificate showing both doses of a jab have been taken.

Any travellers that need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan can obtain an e-visa before travelling. Most leisure and tourist places in the central Asian country have reopened, but a curfew in Bishkek remains in place from 11pm to 7am daily.

Luxembourg is closed for travellers from the UAE until at least September 30, 2021.

The Maldives is back on Abu Dhabi green list from September 1. Photo: One&Only Reethi Rah
The Maldives is back on Abu Dhabi green list from September 1. Photo: One&Only Reethi Rah

The Maldives is welcoming travellers and the holiday hot spot is already seeing an increase in popularity with visitors from the UAE. To head to the islands, you'll need a confirmed hotel reservation for the duration of your stay.

Vaccinated tourists can stay at any registered tourist facility in the Maldives, and accepted vaccinations include Sinopharm. Travellers who are not yet immunised can still fly to the Maldives, but will be restricted to staying on the following islands:

  • Dhigurah
  • Felidhoo
  • Hangnaameedhoo
  • Maafushi
  • Maalhos
  • Mathiveri
  • Thoddoo
  • Rasdhoo
  • Ukulhas

All travellers need to complete an entry form before flying, which can be found here. PCR testing is also required before travelling to the Maldives, with the test to must be taken no more than 96 hours before departure.

The luxury playground that is Monaco has reopened to vaccinated travellers, with no quarantine on arrival. The French territory is accepting visitors with vaccines recognised by the European Medicines Agency, this does not include Sinopharm. Unvaccinated travellers cannot fly to Monaco for tourism purposes at this time.

Norway is another choice for travellers looking to head north, so long as they are fully vaccinated. The Norwegian Institute of Public Health has approved only EMA-listed vaccines, which means travellers who have received the Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson and Moderna vaccines are accepted for entry, but those who have received doses from Sinopharm are not. Unvaccinated tourists cannot fly to Norway from the UAE at this time.

A surfer rides a wave in Unstad, northern Norway. The Nordic nation has reopened to vaccinated travellers. AFP
A surfer rides a wave in Unstad, northern Norway. The Nordic nation has reopened to vaccinated travellers. AFP

After a long wait, Oman is reopening to travellers on September 1. Visitors must have received both doses of a recognised vaccine at least 14 days before travelling to the sultanate. Eight vaccines are accepted, including Sinopharm.

Travellers must have a pre-departure PCR test and valid health insurance to cover medical expenses in Oman for a period of one month. Citizens from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are exempt from insurance requirements.

All arriving passengers, including Omani citizens, must download and preregister on the Tarassud+ platform before flying. This is also where people can upload their vaccine certificates and required Covid-19 PCR certificates. For more information on travel to Oman, including visiting the sultanate via its land borders, you can see our handy information guide here.

Qatar is open to fully vaccinated visitors with no quarantine requirements. Travellers must have had all doses of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before travelling. Qatar only partially accepts the Sinopharm doses for travel, and anyone flying to Doha with this vaccine will be given an additional antibody test upon arrival. If this proves positive, there will be no quarantine, but if it is negative, travellers will have to follow the rules for unvaccinated visitors, which includes hotel quarantine.

Children under 12 are exempt from vaccine and quarantine rules, but anyone travelling with unvaccinated children aged between 12 and 17 will have to undergo hotel quarantine for a period of between five and 10 days, depending on where you are flying from.

A negative PCR test before departure is required for everyone travelling to Qatar and it must have been taken no more than 72 hours on arrival.

Portugal is open to travellers from some destinations, but it is not currently accepting visitors from the UAE unless for essential reasons. Sadly, this does not include holidays or leisure travel.

The tiny San Marino is open to travellers via its border with Italy, and anyone who is allowed to enter Italy can enter. However, if you've been in any other country in the 14 days preceding, you'll have to show a negative PCR test taken in the past 48 hours, or proof of vaccination. More information is available from Visit San Marino.

Once in the republic, you'll be encouraged to wear your mask both indoors and outdoors and gatherings of more than 20 people are forbidden.

Fully vaccinated travellers can fly to Slovakia, as the country has opened to visitors who are inoculated no matter where they are flying from. Travellers must have had both doses of an EU-approved vaccine, this doe not include Sinopharm. Vaccine certificates from countries outside Europe are accepted as proof, but they must be in either Slovak, Czech or English.

The UAE is not on Slovakia's approved list of countries, so vaccinated travellers also need to show a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. All tourists flying to Slovakia must complete this form, and fill in an electronic form, which can be found here, before arriving into the country.

Slovenia is the ideal antidote to months spent indoors and has reopened to vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. Photo: Unsplash
Slovenia is the ideal antidote to months spent indoors and has reopened to vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. Photo: Unsplash

Slovenia is open to vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. The Adriatic country recognises eight vaccines, including Sinopharm, and no PCR test is required for immunised travellers. Unvaccinated visitors must have a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before travel and the certificate must be presented in English and have a QR code.

All travellers arriving by air or sea must fill in a digital passenger locator form before entry to Slovenia is allowed, this can be found here.

Tajikistan is open to some travellers including citizens and residents of the UAE, subject to entry requirements. To fly to Dushanbe you'll need a negative result from a Rapid Covid-19 PCR test taken 72 hours before departure, and visitors will need to have a "Fit to fly" sticker on their passport. This is issued after taking a Rapid test. Children under 3 are exempt from testing requirements. Covid-19 screening and testing is being conducted on arrival in Tajikistan, and once in the country, visitors must isolate for three days.

If Turkmenistan's addition to the green list excited you, you'll probably have to wait a little longer to visit as the country is currently only open to citizens, diplomats and residents. Transit passengers are also unable to fly via Turkmenistan at this time.

UAE travel corridors

The UAE's travel corridor with Bahrain means that fully vaccinated travellers who got their last dose at least 28 days before travel can avoid quarantine. Getty Images
The UAE's travel corridor with Bahrain means that fully vaccinated travellers who got their last dose at least 28 days before travel can avoid quarantine. Getty Images

The UAE's travel corridors with Bahrain, Serbia, Greece and the Seychelles remain in place.

Fully vaccinated travellers who received their last dose of an approved vaccine at least 28 days before travel can fly to and from these destinations without any quarantine on each side.

All four of the destinations are also included in the updated green list, so there's no quarantine for anyone in Abu Dhabi. However, there may be travel restrictions on the other side for unvaccinated travellers.




Monster

Directed by: Anthony Mandler

Starring: Kelvin Harrison Jr., John David Washington 

3/5

 

How to apply for a drone permit
  • Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
  • Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
  • Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
  • Submit their request
What are the regulations?
  • Fly it within visual line of sight
  • Never over populated areas
  • Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
  • Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
  • Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
  • Should have a live feed of the drone flight
  • Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
Essentials

The flights

Etihad (etihad.ae) and flydubai (flydubai.com) fly direct to Baku three times a week from Dh1,250 return, including taxes. 
 

The stay

A seven-night “Fundamental Detox” programme at the Chenot Palace (chenotpalace.com/en) costs from €3,000 (Dh13,197) per person, including taxes, accommodation, 3 medical consultations, 2 nutritional consultations, a detox diet, a body composition analysis, a bio-energetic check-up, four Chenot bio-energetic treatments, six Chenot energetic massages, six hydro-aromatherapy treatments, six phyto-mud treatments, six hydro-jet treatments and access to the gym, indoor pool, sauna and steam room. Additional tests and treatments cost extra.

Six tips to secure your smart home

Most smart home devices are controlled via the owner's smartphone. Therefore, if you are using public wi-fi on your phone, always use a VPN (virtual private network) that offers strong security features and anonymises your internet connection.

Keep your smart home devices’ software up-to-date. Device makers often send regular updates - follow them without fail as they could provide protection from a new security risk.

Use two-factor authentication so that in addition to a password, your identity is authenticated by a second sign-in step like a code sent to your mobile number.

Set up a separate guest network for acquaintances and visitors to ensure the privacy of your IoT devices’ network.

Change the default privacy and security settings of your IoT devices to take extra steps to secure yourself and your home.

Always give your router a unique name, replacing the one generated by the manufacturer, to ensure a hacker cannot ascertain its make or model number.

Company profile

Date started: 2015

Founder: John Tsioris and Ioanna Angelidaki

Based: Dubai

Sector: Online grocery delivery

Staff: 200

Funding: Undisclosed, but investors include the Jabbar Internet Group and Venture Friends

Family reunited

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe was born and raised in Tehran and studied English literature before working as a translator in the relief effort for the Japanese International Co-operation Agency in 2003.

She moved to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies before moving to the World Health Organisation as a communications officer.

She came to the UK in 2007 after securing a scholarship at London Metropolitan University to study a master's in communication management and met her future husband through mutual friends a month later.

The couple were married in August 2009 in Winchester and their daughter was born in June 2014.

She was held in her native country a year later.

Tax authority targets shisha levy evasion

The Federal Tax Authority will track shisha imports with electronic markers to protect customers and ensure levies have been paid.

Khalid Ali Al Bustani, director of the tax authority, on Sunday said the move is to "prevent tax evasion and support the authority’s tax collection efforts".

The scheme’s first phase, which came into effect on 1st January, 2019, covers all types of imported and domestically produced and distributed cigarettes. As of May 1, importing any type of cigarettes without the digital marks will be prohibited.

He said the latest phase will see imported and locally produced shisha tobacco tracked by the final quarter of this year.

"The FTA also maintains ongoing communication with concerned companies, to help them adapt their systems to meet our requirements and coordinate between all parties involved," he said.

As with cigarettes, shisha was hit with a 100 per cent tax in October 2017, though manufacturers and cafes absorbed some of the costs to prevent prices doubling.

COMPANY%20PROFILE
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EName%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Floward%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBased%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ERiyadh%2C%20Saudi%20Arabia%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFounders%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EAbdulaziz%20Al%20Loughani%20and%20Mohamed%20Al%20Arifi%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESector%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EE-commerce%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETotal%20funding%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EAbout%20%24200%20million%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestors%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EAljazira%20Capital%2C%20Rainwater%20Partners%2C%20STV%20and%20Impact46%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ENumber%20of%20employees%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E1%2C200%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Porsche Taycan Turbo specs

Engine: Two permanent-magnet synchronous AC motors

Transmission: two-speed

Power: 671hp

Torque: 1050Nm

Range: 450km

Price: Dh601,800

On sale: now

Squid Game season two

Director: Hwang Dong-hyuk 

Stars:  Lee Jung-jae, Wi Ha-joon and Lee Byung-hun

Rating: 4.5/5

Seven tips from Emirates NBD

1. Never respond to e-mails, calls or messages asking for account, card or internet banking details

2. Never store a card PIN (personal identification number) in your mobile or in your wallet

3. Ensure online shopping websites are secure and verified before providing card details

4. Change passwords periodically as a precautionary measure

5. Never share authentication data such as passwords, card PINs and OTPs  (one-time passwords) with third parties

6. Track bank notifications regarding transaction discrepancies

7. Report lost or stolen debit and credit cards immediately

%20Ramez%20Gab%20Min%20El%20Akher
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECreator%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Ramez%20Galal%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStarring%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Ramez%20Galal%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStreaming%20on%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EMBC%20Shahid%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E2.5%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The bio

Who inspires you?

I am in awe of the remarkable women in the Arab region, both big and small, pushing boundaries and becoming role models for generations. Emily Nasrallah was a writer, journalist, teacher and women’s rights activist

How do you relax?

Yoga relaxes me and helps me relieve tension, especially now when we’re practically chained to laptops and desks. I enjoy learning more about music and the history of famous music bands and genres.

What is favourite book?

The Perks of Being a Wallflower - I think I've read it more than 7 times

What is your favourite Arabic film?

Hala2 Lawen (Translation: Where Do We Go Now?) by Nadine Labaki

What is favourite English film?

Mamma Mia

Best piece of advice to someone looking for a career at Google?

If you’re interested in a career at Google, deep dive into the different career paths and pinpoint the space you want to join. When you know your space, you’re likely to identify the skills you need to develop.  

 

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

Company%20profile
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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

The Porpoise

By Mark Haddon 

(Penguin Random House)
 

Destroyer

Director: Karyn Kusama

Cast: Nicole Kidman, Toby Kebbell, Sebastian Stan

Rating: 3/5 

UAE release: January 31 

How much do leading UAE’s UK curriculum schools charge for Year 6?
  1. Nord Anglia International School (Dubai) – Dh85,032
  2. Kings School Al Barsha (Dubai) – Dh71,905
  3. Brighton College Abu Dhabi - Dh68,560
  4. Jumeirah English Speaking School (Dubai) – Dh59,728
  5. Gems Wellington International School – Dubai Branch – Dh58,488
  6. The British School Al Khubairat (Abu Dhabi) - Dh54,170
  7. Dubai English Speaking School – Dh51,269

*Annual tuition fees covering the 2024/2025 academic year

The specs: 2018 Maserati Ghibli

Price, base / as tested: Dh269,000 / Dh369,000

Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

Power: 355hp @ 5,500rpm

Torque: 500Nm @ 4,500rpm

Fuel economy, combined: 8.9L / 100km

Classification of skills

A worker is categorised as skilled by the MOHRE based on nine levels given in the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) issued by the International Labour Organisation. 

A skilled worker would be someone at a professional level (levels 1 – 5) which includes managers, professionals, technicians and associate professionals, clerical support workers, and service and sales workers.

The worker must also have an attested educational certificate higher than secondary or an equivalent certification, and earn a monthly salary of at least Dh4,000. 

THREE POSSIBLE REPLACEMENTS

Khalfan Mubarak
The Al Jazira playmaker has for some time been tipped for stardom within UAE football, with Quique Sanchez Flores, his former manager at Al Ahli, once labelling him a “genius”. He was only 17. Now 23, Mubarak has developed into a crafty supplier of chances, evidenced by his seven assists in six league matches this season. Still to display his class at international level, though.

Rayan Yaslam
The Al Ain attacking midfielder has become a regular starter for his club in the past 15 months. Yaslam, 23, is a tidy and intelligent player, technically proficient with an eye for opening up defences. Developed while alongside Abdulrahman in the Al Ain first-team and has progressed well since manager Zoran Mamic’s arrival. However, made his UAE debut only last December.

Ismail Matar
The Al Wahda forward is revered by teammates and a key contributor to the squad. At 35, his best days are behind him, but Matar is incredibly experienced and an example to his colleagues. His ability to cope with tournament football is a concern, though, despite Matar beginning the season well. Not a like-for-like replacement, although the system could be adjusted to suit.

Ziina users can donate to relief efforts in Beirut

Ziina users will be able to use the app to help relief efforts in Beirut, which has been left reeling after an August blast caused an estimated $15 billion in damage and left thousands homeless. Ziina has partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to raise money for the Lebanese capital, co-founder Faisal Toukan says. “As of October 1, the UNHCR has the first certified badge on Ziina and is automatically part of user's top friends' list during this campaign. Users can now donate any amount to the Beirut relief with two clicks. The money raised will go towards rebuilding houses for the families that were impacted by the explosion.”

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
Ovo's tips to find extra heat
  • Open your curtains when it’s sunny 
  • Keep your oven open after cooking  
  • Have a cuddle with pets and loved ones to help stay cosy 
  • Eat ginger but avoid chilli as it makes you sweat 
  • Put on extra layers  
  • Do a few star jumps  
  • Avoid alcohol   
What%20is%20cystic%20fibrosis%3F
%3Cul%3E%0A%3Cli%3ECystic%20fibrosis%20is%20a%20genetic%20disorder%20that%20affects%20the%20lungs%2C%20pancreas%20and%20other%20organs.%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EIt%20causes%20the%20production%20of%20thick%2C%20sticky%20mucus%20that%20can%20clog%20the%20airways%20and%20lead%20to%20severe%20respiratory%20and%20digestive%20problems.%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EPatients%20with%20the%20condition%20are%20prone%20to%20lung%20infections%20and%20often%20suffer%20from%20chronic%20coughing%2C%20wheezing%20and%20shortness%20of%20breath.%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3ELife%20expectancy%20for%20sufferers%20of%20cystic%20fibrosis%20is%20now%20around%2050%20years.%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3C%2Ful%3E%0A
MOUNTAINHEAD REVIEW

Starring: Ramy Youssef, Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman

Director: Jesse Armstrong

Rating: 3.5/5

COMPANY%20PROFILE
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EName%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20PlanRadar%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStarted%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E2013%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECo-founders%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EIbrahim%20Imam%2C%20Sander%20van%20de%20Rijdt%2C%20Constantin%20K%C3%B6ck%2C%20Clemens%20Hammerl%2C%20Domagoj%20Dolinsek%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBased%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EVienna%2C%20Austria%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESector%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EConstruction%20and%20real%20estate%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECurrent%20number%20of%20staff%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E400%2B%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestment%20stage%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESeries%20B%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestors%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Headline%2C%20Berliner%20Volksbank%20Ventures%2C%20aws%20Gr%C3%BCnderfonds%2C%20Cavalry%20Ventures%2C%20Proptech1%2C%20Russmedia%2C%20GR%20Capital%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The low down

Producers: Uniglobe Entertainment & Vision Films

Director: Namrata Singh Gujral

Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Nargis Fakhri, Bo Derek, Candy Clark

Rating: 2/5

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

Islamophobia definition

A widely accepted definition was made by the All Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims in 2019: “Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.” It further defines it as “inciting hatred or violence against Muslims”.

Kanye%20West
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