Dubai is always upping the ante when it comes to mind-blowing attractions, and the city has once again outdone itself with a slew of incredible new openings. From thrilling entertainment hubs to immersive art experiences, here are the hottest new additions that belong on every visitor's Dubai itinerary.

Marsa Boulevard: A Waterfront Wonderland

The city's new Marsa Boulevard in Dubai Creek embodies quintessential Dubai charm. This laidback seasonal destination comes alive with food pop-ups, fashion showcases, live performances and engaging workshops. Foodies can savor creative dishes from homegrown concepts like Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Chef Nouel Catis, SLAB and Lost in Tokyo, while those looking for a cultural experience will find plenty to keep them entertained.

• Location: Dubai Festival City, Marsa Al Khor, Dubai

Dubai On & Off Bus: Explore the City with Ease

Discover Dubai's top attractions with the new Dubai On & Off Bus by RTA. This sightseeing bus connects you to eight must-visit spots, including the Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame and the iconic Gold Souk. Enjoy the flexibility to hop on and off as you please, all while taking in the city's stunning landmarks from the comfort of the bus.

• Price: AED35
• Opening hours: Daily 10am to 10pm
• Location: Dubai Mall Bus Station, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

House of Hype: An Epic Entertainment Hub

Blending entertainment, gaming, fashion and food, House of Hype in Dubai Mall Chinatown promises over 100 immersive experiences. Explore 50 gaming stations, 18 interactive worlds, 55 content creator stages, 14 shopping destinations and six dining venues - all under one roof. Uncover hidden rooms, catch spontaneous shows and get ready for nonstop excitement.

• Price: From AED149
• Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 10am to midnight
• Location: Level One, Chinatown, Dubai Mall

Marsa Al Arab Walk: A Waterfront Promenade with a View

The new Marsa Al Arab Walk in Jumeirah offers exceptional vistas of the iconic Burj Al Arab and a marina lined with upscale restaurants like Public, SALT and Meat The Fish. Stroll along this picturesque promenade and soak up the luxury yachting lifestyle.

• Location: Al Darmeet Street - Umm Suqeim - Jumeirah 3 - Dubai

Swingers Crazy Golf: A Hole-in-One Experience

Tee off on one of three intricate nine-hole mini golf courses at Swingers Crazy Golf on Bluewaters Island. This 22,000 sq ft venue features loops, bumps and even moving obstacles, ensuring an unforgettable round of golf every time.

• Price: From AED80
• Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday 3pm-1am, Thursday and Friday: 3pm-2am, Saturday 12noon-2am and Sunday 12noon-1am.
• Location: Bluewaters Island - Dubai

Ain Dubai: The World's Tallest Observation Wheel

No Dubai visit is complete without a ride on the iconic Ain Dubai. Standing at an impressive 250m, this bucket-list experience offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city's coastline, Dubai Marina and famous landmarks.

• Price: From AED145 per person
• Opening hours: Ain Dubai operates between 12 to 8:30pm from Tuesday to Friday and 11am to 8:30pm on Saturday and Sunday. It is closed on Mondays.
• Location: Bluewaters Island, Dubai

Activate: Unleash Your Inner Athlete

Put your mental and physical agility to the test at Activate in City Centre Mirdif. This high-tech gaming experience features over 50 challenges across 10 levels, from easy to extreme. Collaborate with friends or compete against them to climb the scoreboard.

• Price: From AED95
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 10pm and Saturday to Sunday 10am to 12 midnight
• Location: City Centre Mirdif, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd, Mirdif, Dubai

The Smash Room City: Unleash Your Stress

Channel your inner rage at The Smash Room City's themed rooms in Sports Society Mirdif. From an office to a supermarket, you can choose your setting and start smashing electronics, glassware and more to your heart's content.

Five Iron Golf Dubai: Tee Off Indoors

Master your swing at Five Iron Golf Dubai, the world's largest indoor golf venue. With 17 state-of-the-art simulators, a mini golf course, putting green and more, this arena offers entertainment for all levels, from beginners to pros.

• Price: From AED149
• Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday - 7am to midnight, Friday and Saturday 7am to 2am.
• Location: Beach Resort & Marina - The Westin - Dubai Marina - Dubai

Boo Boo Laand: An Enchanting Play Haven

Spanning 25,000 sq ft in Dubai Mall, Boo Boo Laand is a whimsical wonderland for children. Little ones can explore princess-themed areas, sports zones, a snow park, trampolines and much more, while parents indulge in the onsite nail spa and café.

• Ticket prices: From AED150 for two hours (for ages one to two) and AED190 (for ages three to 15). Infants under one year old can enter for free
• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 10am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday: 10am to 12 midnight
• Location: Dubai Mall - Shop 321, 1st Floor, Chinatown, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Chaos Karts: Adrenaline-Fueled Go-Karting

Strap on your helmet and get ready to zip around Chaos Karts' state-of-the-art circuits, which use digital projections and augmented reality to transport you to thrilling destinations like the Arabian desert and an out-of-this-world cosmos course.

• Price: From AED104
• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 1pm to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 11am to 11pm
• Location: Chaos Karts UAE, 6A Street, Al Quoz, Dubai

Museum of Candy: A Sweet Dreamland

Dive into a vibrant, Instagrammable world of confectionery at the world's first Museum of Candy. Explore eight zones filled with interactive exhibits and create your own sugary treats in the Candy Lab.

• Price: From AED119
• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 10am to 10pm and Friday to Sunday 10am to 12am
• Location: Umm Hurair Road, Oud Metha, Dubai

Loco Bear: An Indoor Playground for All

Embrace the chaos at Loco Bear in Al Quoz, an indoor entertainment paradise packed with trampolines, laser tag arenas, a bowling alley, virtual reality experiences and more. Burn off energy, test your skills and make unforgettable memories.

• Price: The cost varies according to activity.
• Opening Hours: Loco Bear opens at 12pm (Monday to Friday) and 11am (Saturday and Sunday), and closes at 10pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 11pm (Friday and Saturday)
• Location: Al Quoz 2, Dubai

Real Madrid World: Football Fanatics' Dream

Become a Real Madrid super-fan at the world's first football theme park, Real Madrid World. Conquer thrilling rides like the region's first wooden roller coaster, Hala Madrid, and feel the rush of the Stars Flyer, the world's tallest amusement ride.

• Price: Tickets start from AED295 online.
• Opening Hours: 12-9pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 12-10pm (Friday and Saturday)
• Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai

ARTE MUSEUM Dubai: An Immersive Art Journey

Step into a mesmerizing digital art experience at ARTE MUSEUM Dubai. Spanning 2,800 sq m in Dubai Mall, this immersive gallery uses cutting-edge technology to showcase captivating exhibits under the theme of 'Eternal Nature'.

• Price:  Tickets start from AED69
• Opening Hours: 10am-11pm (Monday to Thursday) and 10am-12am (Friday to Sunday)
• Location: Dubai Mall - Level 2 Financial Center Rd - opposite Galerie Lafayette - Downtown Dubai - Dubai

GLITCH: Gaming and Gravity-Defying Fun

Challenge your friends and family to a round of bowling, SkySurf (the city's first roller glider experience) or a ninja warrior-style course at GLITCH in Al Ghurair Centre.

• Price: From AED25
• Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10am - 11pm, extended to midnight on weekends
• Location: Level 2, Al Ghurair Centre - Deira - Dubai

Market Island: Dubai's Premier Food Hall

Embark on a global culinary adventure at Market Island, the largest food hall in the Middle East, located in Dubai Festival City Mall. Discover a mouthwatering selection of over 50 international and local food outlets.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 10am to 11pm and Friday to Sunday 10am to midnight
• Location: Dubai Festival City Mall - Crescent Drive - Dubai Festival City - Dubai

SuperPark Dubai: An Indoor Wonderland

Unleash your inner child at SuperPark Dubai in City Centre Mirdif. This 40,000 sq ft indoor playground features sliding mountains, climbing structures, pedal car tracks, ziplines and sports courts to keep you entertained for hours.

• Price: A one-hour session at SuperPark Dubai costs AED90.
• Opening Hours: 10am to midnight
• Location: Level 1, City Centre Mirdif

Dubai Crocodile Park: A Reptilian Retreat

Marvel at over 250 Nile crocodiles in their natural habitat at Dubai Crocodile Park, adjacent to Mushrif Park. Get up close with these fascinating creatures at various feeding stations and learn more about them in the onsite museum.

• Price: AED75 (Ages three to 12) and AED95 (Ages 13 and up)
• Opening Hours: 10am-10pm
• Location: Mushrif - Dubai

These attractions promise to elevate your Dubai experience, offering something for everyone from adventure seekers to food lovers. Don’t miss out on these exciting new additions!

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island and a top holiday destination, is on track to exceed all expectations by welcoming more than 7 million tourists this year. According to Bui Quoc Thai, Director of the provincial Department of Tourism, the island has already attracted over 6 million visitors in the first eight months of 2025 — accounting for nearly 83% of its annual target. Notably, more than 1 million of these travelers were international tourists, signaling a strong comeback in overseas arrivals.

The surge in visitor numbers has translated into impressive economic benefits. Tourism revenues have soared to nearly VND28.3 trillion (approximately US$1.07 billion), surpassing the year-end goal by over 20%. This rapid growth reflects Phu Quoc’s rising appeal as a premier destination, thanks in large part to its modern infrastructure, including the Phu Quoc International Airport and a network of high-speed vessels, which provide seamless connectivity for travelers.

Visitors are also drawn to the island’s luxury accommodations and entertainment options. Phu Quoc boasts a diverse range of four- and five-star resorts, world-class entertainment complexes, and tailored tourism products that cater to various interests and preferences. These offerings ensure memorable and unique experiences that keep tourists coming back.

The island’s tourism momentum is further fueled by preparations for the upcoming APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in 2027. This high-profile event has accelerated infrastructure development, heightening Phu Quoc’s capacity to host international guests and boosting its global profile.

With the National Day holiday approaching, local officials anticipate a new wave of visitors eager to explore Phu Quoc’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultural festivities, and an abundance of entertainment. Numerous travel agencies are offering attractive promotions, ensuring an exciting season ahead.

International arrivals are notably increasing from key markets such as India, South Korea, Russia, and Europe. Meanwhile, an emerging segment of Muslim travelers from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East is creating fresh opportunities. Tour operators at the World Islamic Tourism Trade Expo (WITEX 2025) in Malaysia highlighted Phu Quoc’s potential to become a preferred destination for this fast-growing market, provided the island continues to enhance its services.

Phu Quoc’s growing prestige is reflected in recent accolades from leading travel publications. It ranked third on Travel + Leisure’s list of the 10 best islands in the Asia-Pacific region in 2025, trailing only Bali and Koh Samui. Last year, it was voted the world’s second most beautiful island by Travel + Leisure readers, following the Maldives.

With world-class amenities, expanding international appeal, and strategic development, Phu Quoc is poised to solidify its status as one of Asia’s most captivating island destinations in the months and years to come.

Oman's tourism sector showed remarkable growth in the first half of 2025, with hotel revenues climbing 18% alongside a significant rise in tourist arrivals, which reached 1.14 million. This surge is a clear sign of the country's strengthening position as a key destination in the Middle East, resulting from sustained investments in tourism infrastructure, strategic marketing, and enhanced global connectivity.

The three to five-star hotel segment alone generated OMR 141.21 million (about US$367 million) in revenues, marking an 18.2% increase compared to the previous year. Industry insiders credit this growth to multiple factors such as expanded airport capacity and new flight routes, development of luxury resorts and cultural sites, and targeted marketing campaigns aimed at both leisure and business travelers. Strategic partnerships, including Oman Air’s collaboration with TUI to launch a digital booking platform, have further boosted Oman’s visibility on the global stage.

This upward trend supports Oman’s Vision 2040 plan, which focuses on diversifying the economy by reducing dependence on oil revenues through sustainable tourism development and job creation. The government has committed US$31 billion to tourism development through 2040, with nearly US$6 billion earmarked for new resorts and projects. Currently, Oman boasts renowned luxury hotels such as the Mandarin Oriental Muscat and St Regis Al Mouj, with more than 40 new hotels in the pipeline.

Officials are optimistic that tourism momentum will continue into the latter half of 2025, fueled by upcoming events, festivals, and a growing number of tourism projects nearing completion. These developments will not only benefit the hospitality sector but will also positively impact related industries including transportation, food and beverage, and cultural enterprises, thereby broadening economic diversification.

Oman aims to nearly double its international tourist arrivals to 6 million annually by 2030 and reach 12 million by 2040, reflecting its ambitions to become a premier sustainable tourism destination. This growth trajectory aligns with forecasts that project tourism’s contribution to the national GDP and job creation to keep rising steadily in the coming decade, signaling a robust future for Oman’s tourism industry.

The vibrant surge in tourism highlights Oman’s appeal as a destination rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern luxury, well-supported by government commitment and industry collaboration to sustain and scale this growth efficiently and inclusively.

Salalah’s famed Khareef season the enchanting monsoon spectacle that transforms Dhofar into a lush paradise has once again captured the hearts of visitors from near and far, marking an exciting milestone for Oman’s tourism sector this year.

According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), the Khareef Dhofar Season from June 21 to July 31, 2025, drew approximately 442,100 visitors, reflecting a notable 7% increase over the 2024 season’s 413,122 visitors. This surge signals the continuing allure of Dhofar’s unique climate and vibrant cultural offerings during the Khareef months.

A standout in this year’s visitor statistics is the dramatic rise in domestic tourism. Omani visitors to Dhofar increased by an impressive 75.6%, reaching 334,399, a clear testament to growing national enthusiasm for exploring Oman’s natural and cultural gems. Visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries numbered 69,801, while tourists from other international destinations accounted for nearly 38,000.

The majority of guests arrived by land about 334,846 visitors reflecting Dhofar’s accessibility and appeal for road travelers. Air arrivals also saw an uptick, with 107,254 visitors arriving by plane, marking a 10.9% increase compared to last year. Notably, 95.3% of arrivals were concentrated in July alone, highlighting the peak season’s magnetic pull.

This growth in visitor numbers represents more than statistics; it is a signal of opportunity and momentum for Dhofar’s burgeoning tourism economy. Local businesses in hospitality, retail, and transport sectors can expect expanding demand. The region’s ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure including viewpoints, waterfronts, parks, and cultural sites are paying dividends by enhancing the visitor experience and drawing a diversified visitor base.

Dhofar Municipality is promising an unforgettable Khareef season with a spectacular line-up of events and attractions carefully curated to celebrate Omani culture and entertain visitors of all ages. This year’s program features the world’s largest inflatable amusement park and a state-of-the-art main stage equipped with cutting-edge audio-visual technology. Visitors can enjoy eco-friendly fireworks, daily drone shows, folklore performances from 18 countries, and vibrant markets showcasing Omani entrepreneurs and artisans.

The Khareef season also celebrates heritage and wellness with projects such as "Awda" (The Return), a live re-creation of traditional Omani life, alongside parks dedicated to creative learning and sports activities. Beyond Salalah city, events and markets spread across Taqah, Mirbat, Sadah, and the Al Haffa Beach Market further enrich the seasonal experience.

As Khareef continues to shine as a beacon of natural beauty and cultural pride, the 7% growth in visitors in 2025 alongside a surge in domestic tourists confirms Dhofar's rising status as a premier destination in Oman and the Gulf region. With sustained support from government bodies and private stakeholders, the coming years promise even more innovation, inclusivity, and prosperity for the Khareef Dhofar experience.

From the emerald hills to bustling souqs and lively festivals, Khareef Dhofar 2025 invites everyone to witness the magic of monsoon in Oman’s southwestern gem—and to be part of a story that is still unfolding.

This summer, the picturesque village of Skala Sikamineas on the northeast coast of Lesbos is witnessing a vibrant influx of well-heeled tourists from the Turkish coast across the Aegean Sea. The two acclaimed fish restaurants lining the coast are bustling, filled predominantly with Turkish-speaking diners, including families from Izmir, groups arriving from Ayvalik via a new catamaran connection, and young couples from Istanbul soaking in the island's charm.

Among them are first-time visitors Isin and her boyfriend, who arrived by ferry from Dikili and quickly fell in love with Lesbos’ beaches and taverns, already planning a return next summer. The short crossing under an hour with tickets costing just €35, combined with eight daily ferry trips in the summer season from Dikili to Mytilene, Lesbos’ capital, makes the island an accessible and attractive getaway for Turkish tourists seeking a relaxed atmosphere.

On the Greek side, Turkish visitors find a welcoming environment where they can enjoy local specialties like ouzo, the aniseed schnapps, and relax openly—Turkish women sunbathe comfortably in bikinis, and social mingling happens naturally. Restaurateurs like Takis, operating a tavern in Gera Bay, praise Turkish visitors as appreciative, friendly, and relaxed, often representing the Turkish middle class looking for tranquil retreats. Unlike many Greek islands that have become prohibitively expensive, Lesbos remains affordable compared to Turkish Aegean destinations such as Bozcaada, Bodrum, or Assos.

Tourism is not just boosting local economies; it also serves as a bridge easing historical tensions between Greece and Turkey. Since the 19th-century conflicts and the Greco-Turkish War ending in 1922, relations have softened somewhat, particularly through growing cross-border tourism. In this vein, the deputy mayor of Mytilene, Nikos Giannakas, warmly welcomed the Turkish mayor of Balikesir, Ahmet Akin, and 150 tourists arriving via the new Mytilene-Ayvalik catamaran route now the eighth between these cities, enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Despite continuing political frictions such as maritime border disputes, airspace disagreements, and recent tensions around marine park creations in the Aegean—these issues remain largely distant from the holiday experiences of Turkish tourists on Lesbos. For visitors like Isin and countless others, the beauty and hospitality of the island overshadow any geopolitical rumblings, highlighting how tourism fosters goodwill and cross-cultural understanding amid complex diplomatic landscapes.

This summer, Lesbos is not only a tranquil sanctuary for vacationers but also a living example of how shared human experiences can nurture peaceful connections across the historically often tense Aegean Sea.

Hyundai Department Store’s shares surged 7.1% recently, buoyed by strong second-quarter business results that exceeded market expectations. For Q2 2025, the company reported consolidated operating profit of 86.9 billion won, marking a 102.8% increase year-on-year, and consolidated sales rose 5.5% to 1.803 trillion won. Notably, net profit returned to a surplus of 54.5 billion won during this period.

However, it is worth noting that sales and operating profit in Hyundai's core department store business declined slightly in Q2, with sales falling 3.6% to 590.1 billion won and operating profit down 2.3% to 69.3 billion won. This was attributed partly to reduced operating area due to major store renovations and renewal activities. On the other hand, their subsidiaries showed robust performance: duty-free stores grew sales by 22% while reducing operating losses, and Zinus, an online furniture company under Hyundai, posted an 11.2% sales increase and turned an operating profit of 29.1 billion won.

Hyundai Department Store has also been proactive with shareholder returns, declaring an interim cash dividend of 500 won per common share, reflecting a market dividend rate of 0.7% and total dividend payments of 10.78 billion won.

In response to evolving market trends and consumer behavior, Hyundai is focusing heavily on store renovations and leveraging technology. It launched “Heydi,” an AI shopping assistant for personalized in-store experiences, combining offline retail with generative AI-powered services to attract and engage customers, aiming to set a new shopping concept standard in Korea.

Despite the department store segment’s challenges, Hyundai Department Store's overall financial health and strategic initiatives are generating renewed investor confidence, positioning the company well for stronger performance in the second half of 2025 amid improving domestic consumption trends.

This comprehensive growth across core and subsidiary operations, alongside innovative customer engagement efforts, underpins the recent stock price surge and optimistic outlook for Hyundai Department Store moving forward.