With summer just around the corner, many are thinking about travel. While 92 per cent of UAE travellers plan to take a summer holiday, 51 per cent are yet to book, according to the latest data from Skyscanner. The online travel company has revealed some top tips, including the cheapest week to fly.
In Saudi Arabia, away from the launch of the Middle East's most expensive hotel in the Red Sea, the ancient destination of AlUla is gearing up for the hottest season of the year with special offers, new hotels and exciting activities. And with Eid Al Adha right around the corner, travellers planning a getaway might want to consider a visa-free destination.
Elsewhere, Sweden's Icehotel is preparing for another exciting year after announcing the artists that will transform the pop-up property into an ice and snow spectacle ahead of its 35th annual opening in December.
Here's a round-up of recent travel and tourism news – in case you missed it.
August 12 is the cheapest week to book summer flights says Skyscanner
Travellers who are making plans for summer might want to consider waiting until August to head overseas. That's according to Skyscanner, which reveals that the week of August 12 is the cheapest time to fly out of the UAE.
Flights will be relatively empty – because only 3 per cent of UAE travellers surveyed by the company plan to travel that week, despite lower prices. According to the data, the busiest period will be the first two weeks of July, and that means premium airfares.
Skyscanner's updated savings generator tool offers insights into the cheapest time to travel and when to book. The company's latest data shows that indecision is the top reason for not booking flights, while others are holding off for good deals.
For those looking for value destinations, Skyscanner has listed the places that have seen the biggest price drops this year compared to last. Flights to Istanbul are down 24 per cent, with Cairo and Manchester dropping 20 per cent. For Amman and Paris, it is 15 per cent cheaper than in 2023.
“We know how much UAE travellers look forward to and research their summer holiday – this year perhaps more than any,” said Ayoub El Mamoun, Skyscanner’s travel trends and destination expert. “We prioritise tools that help people get away affordably.”
AlUla launches summer specials and opens eco-luxury earth-clad hotel
Saudi Arabia’s AlUla is gearing up for a busy season. Located in the kingdom’s north-west, the ancient region enjoys a cooler and less humid summer climate than neighbouring cities, with temperatures up to 10°C lower than other destinations in the Gulf.
The destination has unveiled a wealth of summer activities for travellers, including hiking, hot air ballooning and new guided tours. There are also hotel deals on offer with Banyan Tree AlUla offering 15 per cent off bookings made at least 15 days in advance and Habitas AlUla running a summer package inclusive of daily complimentary breakfast and dinner, plus credit to spend at Thuraya Wellness spa.
More affordable getaways are available at Cloud7 Residences, where summer visitors can enjoy four nights for the price of three, while traditional-inspired Shaden, Ashar and Saharay AlUla Resorts also have deals on room rates.
Travellers heading to the destination can take part in several cultural activities. The region’s first design centre, Madrasat Addeera, is running workshops in jewellery making, embroidery and ceramics while outdoor family film nights are on the agenda Cinema AlJadidah on weekends throughout May and June.
AlUla’s first hot balloon operator, Hero Balloon Flights, is running scenic trips and nature lovers can embark on evening walks through the Sharaan Nature Reserve or tackle the Madhakel Wildlife Hike through narrow canyons.
AlUla Desert Blaze returns for its second event in August, with hundreds of runners signed up for the race. Those keen to see Hegra can do so in two new ways: on a night tour of the Nabataean kingdom under a starlit sky or on a nature tour.
The region is also celebrating the launch of its newest hotel. Dar Tantora The House Hotel has opened in the heart of the Old Town and within walking distance of the Incense Road Market, AlJadidah Arts District and the AlUla Oasis.
The world’s first earth-clad hotel was constructed using traditional techniques and materials, and making use of restored original irrigation and ventilation systems to minimise environmental impact. With 30 duplex dars (rooms) and suites, the hotel also has an infinity pool, yoga and meditation studio, a spa and a restaurant with a zero-waste philosophy and a local sourcing model. The original mud brick walls, stonework, windows and historical murals have been carefully restored.
Visa-free Eid escapes for UAE residents
The UAE’s next public holiday is just around the corner, as the country prepares to celebrate Eid Al Adha.
The first day is expected to fall on June 16, with most people enjoying a two-day break. Several destinations allow UAE residents to travel without being granted a visa ahead of time, meaning last-minute bookings are easy. From the Maldives to Georgia, here are a few destinations welcoming UAE travellers without pre-arranged visas.
For nature, mountain air and summertime hikes, Georgia is the place to go. Despite its small size, the Caucasus country is home to 12 different climate zones, making it one of the most ecologically diverse destinations in the world. Direct flights are available from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Tbilisi and to Kutaisi, and no visa for UAE residents is needed, making the country within easy reach. From Parisian-like boulevards in the capital to epic hiking in the mountains, it has plenty to offer.
There's nowhere quite like the Maldives when it comes to island getaways. With flights just four hours from the UAE, the Indian Ocean hotspot is always a favourite, not least because residents are granted a visa on arrival. Having moved away from its reputation as a honeymooner haven, the archipelago welcomes travellers of all ilks, from those on multi-generational family escapes to solo travellers seeking new connections.
Jordan is one of the Middle East's jewels. From ancient Petra to the desert dunes in Wadi Rum, it has something for everyone. UAE travellers can fly direct to the capital Amman in around three hours for eclectic shopping and a blossoming culinary scene.
In the country's southern central district, the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan's largest nature reserve, is worth a visit. Cross-country cycling expeditions are also worth trying for a dose of adventure. No visa is needed for UAE citizens, while residents will be granted a visa on arrival.
Another Indian Ocean holiday hotspot that welcomes UAE travellers with a visa on arrival (provided they possess a return ticket) is the Seychelles. Flight times to the archipelago are under five hours, and the destination offers some of the world's most beautiful beaches, giant tortoises, and luxury resorts. June is also one of the best times to visit the African destination thanks to clear blue skies and sparkling waters, ideal for snorkelling and diving.
Sweden’s Icehotel gears up for winter season
While much of the world is looking ahead to summer, Sweden's IceHotel is on the countdown to winter.
The world's first Icehotel is created out of snow and natural ice from the Torner River every winter when snow covers the small village of Jukkasjärvi in the north of Sweden. This year, travellers can expect big celebrations. The hotel is celebrating its 35th year, and work from 27 artists from 13 countries will transform the space.
The seasonal hotel spans 2,800-square-metres and will feature everything from a colossal rhinoceros to an intricate bird's nest sculpted from ice and snow when it opens in December.
A team of artists, construction specialists, ice production staff, and others will work together to bring the hotel suites to life. When spring returns, the seasonal structures will melt back into ice water, although a section of the hotel will remain so that visitors can experience the ice and snow year-round.
“We had interesting discussions about everything from rhinos to labyrinths before we could agree on the 14 concepts that will become a reality this winter,” said Icehotel creative Luca Roncoroni, who selected the winning designs from 114 concepts.
As part of the 35th-year celebrations, a new Icebar is being installed in the hotel's permanent structure. “I look forward to stepping into Icehotel 35 and showing the world what I believe will be a spectacular version,” said chief executive Marie Herrey.
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
Mercer, the investment consulting arm of US services company Marsh & McLennan, expects its wealth division to at least double its assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East as wealth in the region continues to grow despite economic headwinds, a company official said.
Mercer Wealth, which globally has $160 billion in AUM, plans to boost its AUM in the region to $2-$3bn in the next 2-3 years from the present $1bn, said Yasir AbuShaban, a Dubai-based principal with Mercer Wealth.
“Within the next two to three years, we are looking at reaching $2 to $3 billion as a conservative estimate and we do see an opportunity to do so,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Mercer does not directly make investments, but allocates clients’ money they have discretion to, to professional asset managers. They also provide advice to clients.
“We have buying power. We can negotiate on their (client’s) behalf with asset managers to provide them lower fees than they otherwise would have to get on their own,” he added.
Mercer Wealth’s clients include sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and insurance companies among others.
From its office in Dubai, Mercer also looks after Africa, India and Turkey, where they also see opportunity for growth.
Wealth creation in Middle East and Africa (MEA) grew 8.5 per cent to $8.1 trillion last year from $7.5tn in 2015, higher than last year’s global average of 6 per cent and the second-highest growth in a region after Asia-Pacific which grew 9.9 per cent, according to consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG). In the region, where wealth grew just 1.9 per cent in 2015 compared with 2014, a pickup in oil prices has helped in wealth generation.
BCG is forecasting MEA wealth will rise to $12tn by 2021, growing at an annual average of 8 per cent.
Drivers of wealth generation in the region will be split evenly between new wealth creation and growth of performance of existing assets, according to BCG.
Another general trend in the region is clients’ looking for a comprehensive approach to investing, according to Mr AbuShaban.
“Institutional investors or some of the families are seeing a slowdown in the available capital they have to invest and in that sense they are looking at optimizing the way they manage their portfolios and making sure they are not investing haphazardly and different parts of their investment are working together,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Some clients also have a higher appetite for risk, given the low interest-rate environment that does not provide enough yield for some institutional investors. These clients are keen to invest in illiquid assets, such as private equity and infrastructure.
“What we have seen is a desire for higher returns in what has been a low-return environment specifically in various fixed income or bonds,” he said.
“In this environment, we have seen a de facto increase in the risk that clients are taking in things like illiquid investments, private equity investments, infrastructure and private debt, those kind of investments were higher illiquidity results in incrementally higher returns.”
The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds, said in its 2016 report that has gradually increased its exposure in direct private equity and private credit transactions, mainly in Asian markets and especially in China and India. The authority’s private equity department focused on structured equities owing to “their defensive characteristics.”
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Explainer: Tanween Design Programme
Non-profit arts studio Tashkeel launched this annual initiative with the intention of supporting budding designers in the UAE. This year, three talents were chosen from hundreds of applicants to be a part of the sixth creative development programme. These are architect Abdulla Al Mulla, interior designer Lana El Samman and graphic designer Yara Habib.
The trio have been guided by experts from the industry over the course of nine months, as they developed their own products that merge their unique styles with traditional elements of Emirati design. This includes laboratory sessions, experimental and collaborative practice, investigation of new business models and evaluation.
It is led by British contemporary design project specialist Helen Voce and mentor Kevin Badni, and offers participants access to experts from across the world, including the likes of UK designer Gareth Neal and multidisciplinary designer and entrepreneur, Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi.
The final pieces are being revealed in a worldwide limited-edition release on the first day of Downtown Designs at Dubai Design Week 2019. Tashkeel will be at stand E31 at the exhibition.
Lisa Ball-Lechgar, deputy director of Tashkeel, said: “The diversity and calibre of the applicants this year … is reflective of the dynamic change that the UAE art and design industry is witnessing, with young creators resolute in making their bold design ideas a reality.”
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BUNDESLIGA FIXTURES
Friday Stuttgart v Cologne (Kick-off 10.30pm UAE)
Saturday RB Leipzig v Hertha Berlin (5.30pm)
Mainz v Borussia Monchengladbach (5.30pm)
Bayern Munich v Eintracht Frankfurt (5.30pm)
Union Berlin v SC Freiburg (5.30pm)
Borussia Dortmund v Schalke (5.30pm)
Sunday Wolfsburg v Arminia (6.30pm)
Werder Bremen v Hoffenheim (9pm)
Bayer Leverkusen v Augsburg (11.30pm)
Ferrari 12Cilindri specs
Engine: naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12
Power: 819hp
Torque: 678Nm at 7,250rpm
Price: From Dh1,700,000
Available: Now
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.
Full list of Emmy 2020 nominations
LEAD ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
Anthony Anderson, Black-ish
Don Cheadle, Black Monday
Ted Danson, The Good Place
Michael Douglas, The Kominsky Method
Eugene Levy, Schitt’s Creek
Ramy Youssef, Ramy
LEAD ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
Christina Applegate, Dead to Me
Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Linda Cardellini, Dead to Me
Catherine O’Hara, Schitt’s Creek
Issa Rae, Insecure
Tracee Ellis Ross, Black-ish
OUTSTANDING VARIETY/TALK SERIES
The Daily Show with Trevor Noah
Full Frontal with Samantha Bee
Jimmy Kimmel Live
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
LEAD ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Jason Bateman, Ozark
Sterling K. Brown, This Is Us
Steve Carell, The Morning Show
Brian Cox, Succession
Billy Porter, Pose
Jeremy Strong, Succession
LEAD ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Jennifer Aniston, The Morning Show
Olivia Colman, The Crown
Jodie Comer, Killing Eve
Laura Linney, Ozark
Sandra Oh, Killing Eve
Zendaya, Euphoria
OUTSTANDING REALITY/COMPETITION PROGRAM
The Masked Singer
Nailed It!
RuPaul’s Drag Race
Top Chef
The Voice
LEAD ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES/TV MOVIE
Jeremy Irons, Watchmen
Hugh Jackman, Bad Education
Paul Mescal, Normal People
Jeremy Pope, Hollywood
Mark Ruffalo, I Know This Much Is True
LEAD ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES/TV MOVIE
Cate Blanchett, Mrs. America
Shira Haas, Unorthodox
Regina King, Watchmen
Octavia Spencer, Self Made
Kerry Washington, Little Fires Everywhere
OUTSTANDING LIMITED SERIES
Little Fires Everywhere
Mrs. America
Unbelievable
Unorthodox
Watchmen
OUTSTANDING COMEDY SERIES
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Dead to Me
The Good Place
Insecure
The Kominsky Method
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Schitt’s Creek
What We Do In The Shadows
OUTSTANDING DRAMA SERIES
Better Call Saul
The Crown
The Handmaid’s Tale
Killing Eve
The Mandalorian
Ozark
Stranger Things
Succession
The biog
Name: Timothy Husband
Nationality: New Zealand
Education: Degree in zoology at The University of Sydney
Favourite book: Lemurs of Madagascar by Russell A Mittermeier
Favourite music: Billy Joel
Weekends and holidays: Talking about animals or visiting his farm in Australia
The biog
Favourite food: Fish and seafood
Favourite hobby: Socialising with friends
Favourite quote: You only get out what you put in!
Favourite country to visit: Italy
Favourite film: Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.
Family: We all have one!
