A dazzling new cultural landmark paying tribute to rich Roman history is poised to propel Sharjah to a brighter future.
The spectacular Khor Fakkan amphitheatre – inspired by the grand design of the Roman Colosseum – has already wowed thousands of visitors since its official opening a week ago.
The stunning 17,650-square-metre open-air venue will be at the heart of efforts to transform the east coast enclave into a tourism hot spot.
The striking semicircular structure, with an imposing stone facade that includes 234 arches and 295 columns, was formally inaugurated on Monday by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah.
More than 18,000 residents and tourists have already soaked up the atmosphere of the amphitheatre, which can host up to 3,600 spectators.
The screening of the film Khorfakkan, documenting the town's invasion by the Portuguese in the 1600s, was the highlight of five days of festivities held to celebrate the grand opening of the UAE's latest attraction.
The Ruler of Sharjah has led efforts to unlock the potential of Khor Fakkan as a magnet for tourism in recent years.
Last month he inspected the development of a new heritage area encompassing a canal, hotel and traditional souq.
Old markets have been restored, shops rejuvenated and people will soon be able to stay in boutique heritage accommodation in the town.
Popular Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi will headline the first concert at the amphitheatre on New Year's Eve.
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The essentials
What: Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
When: Friday until March 9
Where: All main sessions are held in the InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Price: Sessions range from free entry to Dh125 tickets, with the exception of special events.
Hot Tip: If waiting for your book to be signed looks like it will be timeconsuming, ask the festival’s bookstore if they have pre-signed copies of the book you’re looking for. They should have a bunch from some of the festival’s biggest guest authors.
Information: www.emirateslitfest.com
Groom and Two Brides
Director: Elie Semaan
Starring: Abdullah Boushehri, Laila Abdallah, Lulwa Almulla
Rating: 3/5
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Places to go for free coffee
- Cherish Cafe Dubai, Dubai Investment Park, are giving away free coffees all day.
- La Terrace, Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai, are serving their first 50 guests one coffee and four bite-sized cakes
- Wild & The Moon will be giving away a free espresso with every purchase on International Coffee Day
- Orange Wheels welcome parents are to sit, relax and enjoy goodies at ‘Café O’ along with a free coffee
APPLE IPAD MINI (A17 PRO)
Display: 21cm Liquid Retina Display, 2266 x 1488, 326ppi, 500 nits
Chip: Apple A17 Pro, 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine
Storage: 128/256/512GB
Main camera: 12MP wide, f/1.8, digital zoom up to 5x, Smart HDR 4
Front camera: 12MP ultra-wide, f/2.4, Smart HDR 4, full-HD @ 25/30/60fps
Biometrics: Touch ID, Face ID
Colours: Blue, purple, space grey, starlight
In the box: iPad mini, USB-C cable, 20W USB-C power adapter
Price: From Dh2,099
What the law says
Micro-retirement is not a recognised concept or employment status under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations (as amended) (UAE Labour Law). As such, it reflects a voluntary work-life balance practice, rather than a recognised legal employment category, according to Dilini Loku, senior associate for law firm Gateley Middle East.
“Some companies may offer formal sabbatical policies or career break programmes; however, beyond such arrangements, there is no automatic right or statutory entitlement to extended breaks,” she explains.
“Any leave taken beyond statutory entitlements, such as annual leave, is typically regarded as unpaid leave in accordance with Article 33 of the UAE Labour Law. While employees may legally take unpaid leave, such requests are subject to the employer’s discretion and require approval.”
If an employee resigns to pursue micro-retirement, the employment contract is terminated, and the employer is under no legal obligation to rehire the employee in the future unless specific contractual agreements are in place (such as return-to-work arrangements), which are generally uncommon, Ms Loku adds.
MATCH INFO
Uefa Champions League quarter-final (first-leg score):
Juventus (1) v Ajax (1), Tuesday, 11pm UAE
Match will be shown on BeIN Sports
