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June 6, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
There is a huge difference between Dubai’s culinary establishments and that of other Middle Eastern countries. While the latter’s local cuisine can be found in every corner, Emirati food in Dubai is actually quite hard to come by. In fact, until the opening of Al Fanar in Dubai Festival City, Emirati food was something of
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May 22, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
DIFC, Dubai’s finance and commerce hub, is buzzing with eateries. From inexpensive fast food outlets like Zaatar W Zeit to high-end restaurants like Gaucho, there is something to suit even the pickiest palate – for both locals and Expats alike. However, during your lunch hour, when time isn’t always on your side, your best bet
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May 1, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
The Moroccan Hammam tradition goes back hundreds of years and while it is an integral part of Moroccan culture, the custom extends beyond North Africa, to Turkey, Syria, the UAE and the rest of the Arab world. Although the setting varies – from common, public facilities where patrons gather to gossip, to more private, high-end
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April 29, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
When I first moved to the UAE, I knew the law and order situation in Dubai was great. Even venturing out late at night is considered safe because Dubai Police patrol cars are vigilant about patrolling their city. What I didn’t know but quickly found out was that they weren’t just vigilant but also effective.
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April 15, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
When Comic Con came to Dubai last year, nobody—not even the organizers, thought it would be as big a success as it was. If you thought a city like Dubai wouldn’t have much of an audience where comic books and characters are concerned, the Middle East Film and Comic Convention proved you wrong. Over 15000
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March 21, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
Every year, Earth Hour is observed for an hour around the world. Folks who participate in it turn off their lights, unplug their appliances and…probably have candlelight dinners. Humour aside, Earth Hour is a big deal in Dubai. Considering how much electricity and other resources Dubai consumes, it’s natural that environment conscious Dubai expats and
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February 7, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
Dubai is known as a shopper’s paradise. Long time Dubai expats will tell you that that’s not quite true. For them Dubai is a shopper’s paradise during the annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). Originally started in 1996, this one month long festival aimed to promote trade and commerce in Dubai. It has now become one
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February 7, 2013 in
Middle East Expat
One of the first things I was asked by veteran Dubai expats when I moved here was whether I’d gone for Desert Safari or not. When I told them I hadn’t gone on one yet, the reactions varied from “You’re kidding, right?” to “You have to try it!” Turns out, I really did need to
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December 11, 2012 in
Middle East Expat
The UAE recently celebrated its 41st National Day on December 2nd 2012. While that date has passed, the celebrations have not. As an expat in Dubai, I’ve always found the history of UAE fascinating. The idea of seven states—all monarchies at that—coming together to form a country is mind boggling. But that’s exactly what Dubai,
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November 20, 2012 in
Middle East Expat
Expats in Dubai are foodies. They’re always willing to try new cuisines and don’t discriminate between 5 star restaurants or roadside cafes. When it comes to seafood though, they can be very choosy. Most expats recommend only one place for exceptional seafood and that’s Bu Qtair. Surprisingly, Bu Qtair isn’t a 5 star hotel or 