Dubai Accelerates E-Commerce Growth Through Business-Friendly Regulation

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Natasha Dury

Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a leading global business hub, underpinned by a regulatory framework designed to enable growth, innovation and operational agility. A key enabler of this environment is the emirate’s streamlined approach to licensing, which allows retail, trading and F&B businesses to expand into digital channels without the need for additional approvals, provided activities remain within their existing scope.

This flexibility reflects Dubai’s broader economic philosophy, reducing friction for businesses while creating clear, scalable pathways for expansion. As a result, companies across sectors are increasingly integrating e-commerce and delivery platforms into their operations, unlocking new revenue streams and reaching wider customer bases while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Under the current framework, licensed businesses can seamlessly adopt digital sales channels, from launching proprietary online stores to leveraging established marketplaces and digital payment systems. This accessibility significantly lowers barriers to entry, particularly for SMEs and emerging entrepreneurs, enabling faster market participation in an increasingly digital economy.

The F&B sector has similarly benefited from this progressive approach. Licensed establishments are able to partner with approved delivery platforms, extending their reach beyond physical locations without compromising compliance standards. This has allowed operators to diversify income streams and enhance customer engagement in a highly competitive market.

Commenting recently on the evolving landscape, Ahmad Khalifa AlQaizi AlFalasi, CEO of Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), emphasised the emirate’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for businesses of all sizes. He highlighted that Dubai’s regulatory framework is designed to minimise barriers while enabling companies to scale efficiently, leveraging digital channels to sustain growth and strengthen resilience.

Further reinforcing this ecosystem is the Dubai Traders programme, introduced under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The initiative provides a structured pathway for businesses to enter and expand within the e-commerce space, offering preferential onboarding, competitive rates and dedicated support across key digital platforms. By facilitating smoother integration into online marketplaces, the programme accelerates digital adoption and enhances competitiveness at both local and regional levels.

Together, these measures position Dubai as a forward-looking economy where regulatory clarity and practical enablement converge. By empowering businesses to adapt quickly, embrace digital transformation and scale with confidence, the emirate continues to build a resilient and future-ready commercial landscape.

A Night of Ribs, Rhythm and Indulgence at FRANK Meat & Taps

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Shereen Shabnam

There are restaurants you visit for a quick bite and then there are places like FRANK Meat & Taps, where the energy pulls you in before the first plate even lands on the table. Tucked away on Bluewaters Island just steps from Ain Dubai, this hip-hop-infused gastropub blends bold American comfort food with an atmosphere that feels instantly electric yet warmly welcoming.

The vibe is effortlessly cool with industrial-chic interiors, upbeat music, buzzing conversations and a crowd that reflects Dubai’s multicultural spirit. Despite the lively setting, the service remains impressively attentive. The staff are friendly without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely enthusiastic about guiding you through the experience.

We began with meat cubes that were tender, flavour-packed  and set the tone for what was to come. The corn dog delivered playful nostalgia with a crisp golden coating, popcorn and a juicy centre, while the smashed burger was everything you want from comfort food: juicy, perfectly caramelised edges, layered with just the right balance of pickles and sauce. We dined with a pescatarian who told us the prawn tempura and the salmon steak was done perfectly and a must try.

Then came the ribs and they truly are the heart of FRANK. Slow-cooked, generous, and beautifully glazed, they fall apart at the touch while still holding that satisfying bite. They are indulgent without feeling overly heavy, and it’s easy to see why they’re considered the signature order. Alongside them, the beef quesadilla offered a creamy, rich contrast, being hearty, well-seasoned and ideal for sharing.

Dessert deserves its own applause. The homemade Napoleon layered with cherry jam was delicate yet comforting, the pistachio Kunafa Fondant cleverly fused Middle Eastern texture with molten decadence, and the chocolate lava cheesecake was unapologetically indulgent. t

FRANK is not just about food; it is about mood. It is where big flavours meet big beats, where friends and family linger longer than planned, and where every dish feels generous, not just in portion, but in personality.

Inanna Reborn: A Desert Awakening of Myth, Memory and Modern Luxury

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Natasha Dury

Under the vast, open skies of Mleiha National Park, where ancient landscapes hold stories older than memory itself, a new chapter in luxury quietly unfolded. At dusk, as the desert shifted from gold to amber, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi introduced Inanna Reborn, not merely as a fashion label, but as an immersive expression of storytelling, ritual and identity.

This was not a conventional launch. It was a moment of transformation. One where fashion, culture and symbolism converged in a setting that felt both timeless and deeply intentional. The desert became more than a backdrop; it became part of the narrative itself, reflecting the soul of a brand rooted in memory, mythology and feminine sovereignty.

The Birth of Mythic Luxury

At the heart of Inanna Reborn lies a compelling proposition: that luxury can be more than material. It can be memory, awakening and meaning. The brand introduces what it calls Mythic Luxury, a concept where couture becomes a vessel for personal transformation and ancestral remembrance. Founded by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi after years of research into Arabian queens and mythology, the brand is deeply informed by themes explored in her recent literary work.

A Launch Rooted in Ritual and Place

Set in Mleiha, a landscape known for its archaeological and cultural significance, the launch reflected the essence of the brand with remarkable clarity. Guests were immersed in a carefully choreographed experience that included a runway presentation of the debut collection, a multisensory Chamber of Inanna installation, and an intimate showcase of selected pieces in a guest space known as The Caravan. Each element was designed to reinforce the idea of adornment as ritual rather than ornament. The result was an atmosphere that felt cinematic yet intimate, where fashion was experienced as something emotional, symbolic and deeply personal.

Fashion as Resurrection

The debut collection draws on the legacies of powerful historical women including Zenobia, Sheba, Mavia, Samsi and Abi’el, translating their strength and mystique into garments that feel both contemporary and ceremonial. There is a softness to the silhouettes, but also undeniable command. Fabrics move with grace, while structure and detail evoke a sense of quiet authority. The garments do not shout for attention; instead, they hold presence in a way that feels elegant, grounded and deeply intentional. Rather than chasing trends, the collection seems to exist outside them. It speaks to women who view clothing not simply as style, but as self-expression, armour and extension of identity.

Jewellery with Meaning

Alongside the fashion collection, Inanna Reborn also unveiled its first jewellery line: Abi’el – The Desert Oath. Rooted in Emirati heritage, the collection reinterprets traditional adornment through a contemporary lens, using silver as its central material, a historic choice long associated with Bedouin women as both adornment and portable wealth. Coin motifs, fluid forms and tactile movement give each piece the feel of a talisman rather than an accessory. These are not static objects designed merely to decorate, but meaningful pieces intended to be worn with purpose, memory and presence.

A Commitment to Craft and Conscious Luxury

What elevates Inanna Reborn even further is its clear commitment to preserving artisanal heritage. The collection incorporates techniques such as Ikat weaving, Kantha and Phulkari embroidery, Shibori dyeing, hand block printing and Pashmina craftsmanship, all living traditions sustained through meaningful collaboration with artisans. The brand also embraces a deliberately slow and intentional production model, working with natural materials such as linen, cotton and wool, while minimising waste through thoughtful design and reintegration of offcuts. The launch of Inanna Reborn offers an experience rooted in reflection, craftsmanship and emotional resonance.

Style-First Urban SUV with Substance to Match: Lynk & Co 06

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Shereen Shabnam

The Lynk & Co 06 positions itself as a design-led, tech-forward compact SUV aimed squarely at urban drivers who value individuality as much as everyday usability. Experiencing it on the roads of Dubai, the 06 feels perfectly in sync as it is compact enough to navigate tight urban spaces with ease, yet distinctive enough to stand out in a sea of more conventional crossovers.

It blends Chinese engineering with a distinctly European-influenced design philosophy, something Lynk & Co has leaned into since its inception. That dual identity comes through clearly from behind the wheel, where the car balances modern styling and digital integration with a driving experience tailored for real-world city life. Our test drive began at home near Citywalk in the heart of Dubai to weaving through tight urban streets of Bur Dubai where its compact dimensions and light steering immediately proved their worth. Out on Sheikh Zayed Road, the pace picked up, and the 06 settled into a composed, confident cruise, showing a different side to its personality.

Exterior

Visually, the 06 makes an immediate statement. It adopts Lynk & Co’s now-familiar split lighting signature, with slim daytime running lights perched high on the hood and the main headlamp units set lower into the bumper. The proportions are compact, yet the design manages to project a sense of solidity and presence. Strong character lines along the sides and contrasting trim details give it a slightly sporty edge, while the overall stance feels more “urban chic” than rugged SUV.

Interior

Inside, the cabin reflects a modern, minimalist approach with a clear focus on digital integration. The layout is clean and uncluttered, anchored by a central touchscreen and a fully digital instrument cluster. There is a noticeable influence from Volvo in the ergonomics and overall layout, which lends the interior a sense of familiarity and usability. Material quality is respectable for the segment, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and more durable plastics lower down. The seats are supportive and styled with a slightly sporty flair, reinforcing the car’s youthful positioning. Space in the front is comfortable, while the rear seats are adequate for daily commuting.

Technology

Technology is where the 06 punches above its weight. The infotainment system is modern and responsive, offering smartphone connectivity, a clear user interface, and a suite of convenience features that would have been considered premium just a few years ago. Higher trims add a 360-degree camera system and a comprehensive set of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping support.

The overall experience is very much screen-centric, with most functions routed through the touchscreen.

Performance

Under the hood, the Lynk & Co 06 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing around 181 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. On paper, the numbers are solid for the segment, and on the road, they translate into brisk, confident performance. Acceleration is more than adequate for urban and highway driving, with enough punch for overtaking when needed. The transmission shifts smoothly under normal driving conditions, though it can feel slightly hesitant at low speeds, a common trait among dual-clutch setups. The ride quality leans toward comfort, absorbing road imperfections well, while the steering is light and easy, making the car particularly well-suited to city environments.

Our Verdict

First impressions are clear that Lynk & Co 06 comes with a distinct sense of style and a strong focus on technology, positioning itself as a fresh alternative for drivers who want something that reflects the energy and individuality of discerning drivers. The Lynk & Co 06 stands out visually and offers strong value for money and filled with safe, predictable options which ultimately, is its biggest strength.

Scent, Skin and Story: Emma Hamsa’s Debut Redefines Modern Perfumery

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Natasha Dury

With fragrance deeply tied to identity, ritual and emotion, a new homegrown niche fragrance house makes a quietly compelling entrance. Emma Hamsa introduces The First Light, a debut collection of Extrait de Parfum shaped by memory, family legacy and a distinctly skin-centric approach to scent.

Founded by entrepreneur and Creative Director Emma Hamsa, the collection was developed over the course of a year in collaboration with an established French fragrance house. The result is a refined, craft-led offering that prioritises balance, longevity and restraint. Each fragrance is designed to sit close to the skin, unfolding gradually and becoming part of the wearer’s natural rhythm rather than overpowering it.

The collection features three fragrances, Milk of Light, Desire Skin and Eternal Horizon. Each one is inspired by a significant figure in Emma’s life. Together, they form an intimate olfactory narrative rooted in connection and emotion. Milk of Light reflects softness and reassurance, Desire Skin captures closeness and quiet intensity, while Eternal Horizon evokes a sense of calm strength and enduring presence. The trio can be worn individually or layered, allowing for a personalised interpretation of scent.

Positioned within the niche luxury category, Emma Hamsa focuses on storytelling and emotional authenticity over trends. Composed using high-quality raw materials, the fragrances explore musky, milky, woody and mineral accords that feel subtle, comforting and deeply personal. The collection is also gender-inclusive in spirit, with compositions designed to transcend traditional fragrance categories.

Produced to international standards and cruelty-free, the collection marks the beginning of a brand that is intentionally considered in its growth, with plans for curated retail experiences and selective expansion.

#EmmaHamsa #NicheFragrance #LuxuryPerfume #FragranceLovers #PerfumeStory #ExtraitDeParfum #ScentOfTheDay #BeautyEditorial #LuxuryLifestyle #FragranceCommunity #GTM #GlobalTrendMonitor

Bold in Red: Fabiana Redefines Everyday Luxury

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Natasha Dury

There are moments in design when a single colour tells the entire story. For Fabiana, that colour is red which is confident, expressive and undeniably sophisticated. Our latest accessories edit brings together a curated selection of handcrafted leather pieces that transform everyday essentials into refined statements of style.

Crafted with precision and an eye for detail, the collection reflects a modern approach to luxury, where function meets aesthetic clarity. The rich red hue runs consistently across each piece, creating a cohesive visual language that feels both powerful and polished. Whether placed on a desk, carried into a meeting or styled within a living space, these accessories are designed to stand out without overwhelming.

At the heart of the collection are the travel and work essentials. The sleek laptop sleeve, finished in supple leather, offers a minimalist silhouette while ensuring protection with understated elegance. Complementing this are matching luggage tags, designed with clean lines and refined hardware, adding a subtle yet elevated touch to travel moments.

For the workspace, Fabiana introduces a series of desk accessories that bring warmth and personality to contemporary interiors. The structured leather tray is both practical and sculptural, ideal for organising everyday items while maintaining a sense of order. The tissue box cover, often overlooked, is reimagined here as a design piece that is clean, geometric and finished with impeccable stitching.

Adding a softer dimension to the collection is the leather-wrapped vase, paired with striking red roses. It reflects Fabiana’s ability to merge lifestyle with design, turning simple decorative elements into tactile, luxurious accents.

Completing the edit is the statement briefcase, carried with effortless confidence. Designed for the modern professional, it balances structure with fluidity, offering both practicality and presence. The rich leather finish, paired with classic detailing, makes it as suitable for business settings as it is for everyday use.

Together, the collection speaks to a lifestyle that values detail, craftsmanship and quiet luxury. Fabiana’s red accessories are expressions of individuality and designed for those who appreciate beauty with practicality.

Shaping the Future of Climate-Responsive Living

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The Future of Desert Living to Take Centre Stage at the 2nd Desert Architecture MENA Forum

Dubai, UAE: Positioning desert architecture at the forefront of climate responsive design, the 2nd Desert Architecture MENA Forum returns on 30–31 March 2026 at the Habtoor Grand Resort, following the success of its inaugural edition last year. Under the theme “Integrating Heritage with Innovation: The Future of Desert Living”, the Forum will bring together global architects, policymakers, developers, sustainability leaders, and technology innovators.

As the region’s only platform dedicated to desert architecture, the Forum addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing the Middle East and arid regions worldwide: how to design cities, buildings, and communities that are resilient, climate-smart, and culturally rooted in desert environments.

The 2026 edition will expand its scope with deeper technical discussions, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies focused on climate-resilient urbanism, low-carbon materials, passive cooling systems, regenerative landscapes, and self-sufficient infrastructure. More than an event, the Forum serves as a marketplace of ideas and partnerships, providing direct access to project owners, regulators, architects, consultants, contractors, and technology providers shaping the next generation of desert cities.

Mark Powell Kyffin, Director of Architecture, Project Management and Engineering, with the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi highlighted the importance of such platforms in shaping future cities, stating: “Desert architecture is not a constraint. It is an opportunity. Rooted in heritage, culture, and innovation, the region is uniquely positioned to lead the world in climate-responsive design. Forums such as this are essential in fostering dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration that translate vision into meaningful, lasting impact.”

Commenting on the Forum’s return, Leila Masinaei, Managing Partner at Great Minds Events, said: “The Desert Architecture MENA Forum was created to move beyond theory and deliver practical, scalable solutions for building in desert climates. The second edition reflects the urgency of the moment, where climate realities demand collaboration, innovation, and a renewed respect for traditional desert wisdom combined with cutting-edge design and technology.”

The Forum aligns closely with the UAE’s broader sustainability, urban development, and cultural preservation agendas. It also reinforces the region’s growing role as a global leader in climate-responsive architecture.

Across two days, the Forum will host 35+ international speakers from leading global and regional firms including Foster + Partners, BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group, Snohetta, Killa Design, Arup, AECOM, SOM, HKS, and DLR Group, alongside senior representatives from government authorities, municipalities, and academic institutions.

Key objectives of the Forum include strengthening cross-sector collaboration, showcasing smart materials and emerging technologies, blending traditional desert knowledge with contemporary design solutions, and positioning the MENA region as a global hub for climate-responsive architecture.

The event will welcome 300+ delegates from across the region and beyond, including government authorities, project owners, developers, architectural firms, consultancies, EPCs, and senior decision-makers spanning architecture, design, sustainability, engineering, R&D, and construction.

As part of the Forum, the Desert Architecture Recognition Awards 2026 will take place on 31 March, celebrating visionaries redefining excellence in arid-climate design. The Awards will recognise achievements across sustainable materials, façade innovation, regenerative landscapes, digital design, architectural lighting, and emerging talent, concluding with an exclusive reception dinner and networking evening.

With over 20 sessions, and case studies, and participation from over 15 countries, the 2nd Desert Architecture MENA Forum promises to be a defining platform for advancing sustainable, culturally grounded, and future-ready design across desert regions.

For more information, visit https://desertarchitectureforum.com/

Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club (UAE) Hosts Social Gathering in Al Rahba

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Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club (UAE) marked a significant milestone with its first social club meet, held in the heart of Al Rahba. Designed as an intimate gathering for owners and admirers of the marque, the evening blended classic automotive heritage with authentic Emirati hospitality, setting the tone for what promises to be a distinguished community of enthusiasts in the region.

Founded by Russell Simon Gale and Ali Abdulla Fadhel Almemari, the UAE chapter of the globally respected Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club was established to create a dedicated platform for owners and collectors to connect, share knowledge and celebrate the craftsmanship and legacy of Rolls-Royce motor cars. The event reflected that vision, as members arrived in a stunning display of Rolls-Royce models spanning generations, each vehicle a testament to timeless design and engineering excellence.

The highlight of the evening was an engaging fireside chat featuring the founders, who shared their passion for the brand and their aspirations for building a community rooted in camaraderie and cultural connection. Conversations flowed effortlessly among guests, from restoration stories and rare specifications to the unique experiences of ownership in the UAE.

Beyond the automobiles, the event embraced a distinctly local character. Guests enjoyed traditional Emirati cuisine and immersive touches that celebrated the nation’s heritage, including elegant horse and carriage rides that added a nostalgic charm to the setting. The fusion of British automotive heritage with Emirati tradition underscored the Club’s commitment to creating experiences that are both globally refined and locally meaningful.

Co-Founder Ali Abdulla Fadhel Almemari added, “The UAE has a vibrant community of collectors and enthusiasts who deeply appreciate heritage and excellence. Through the Club, we want to bring people together not only around the cars, but around shared values of tradition, refinement and friendship. Hosting our gathering in Shahama with an authentic Emirati touch was a meaningful way to begin this journey.”

“Rolls-Royce has always represented more than just a motor car; it represents craftsmanship, legacy and shared passion,” said Russell Simon Gale, Co-Founder of Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club (UAE). “Our goal is to create a welcoming platform in the UAE where owners and admirers can connect, exchange knowledge and celebrate these extraordinary vehicles in a setting that reflects the culture and hospitality of this country.”

The Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club (UAE) aims to curate regular social meets, heritage drives, technical workshops and lifestyle experiences that honour the spirit of the marque while fostering a close-knit community across the Emirates. As the evening concluded under the open skies of Shahama, it was clear that the Club’s debut social gathering had laid the foundation for a new chapter in the UAE’s luxury automotive landscape, one that is defined by elegance, heritage and genuine connection.

Polo, Couture & Championship Glory: Emaar Polo Cup 2026 Closes in Spectacular Style

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Bin Drai Triumphs 7–6.5 over Jehangiri in a final that celebrated Polo and Prestige

The grand finale of the Emaar Polo Cup 2026 unfolded as a dazzling fusion of elite sport and elevated lifestyle at the iconic Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, where championship intensity met curated luxury in every detail.

On the field, Bin Drai narrowly defeated Jehangiri in a thrilling 7–6.5 victory, delivering a gripping display of precision, pace and horsemanship. The match showcased the very best of medium-goal polo, keeping a packed audience of VIPs, families and polo aficionados on edge until the final chukker. Yet finals day extended far beyond the scoreboard.

Guests arrived to an impressive showcase of modern luxury vehicles alongside impeccably restored vintage classics, transforming the club grounds into an open-air automotive gallery. Inside the hospitality lounges, freshly shucked oysters, premium caviar selections and exotic drinks set a refined culinary tone, while live musical performances created a vibrant social rhythm throughout the afternoon.

An elegant exhibition of luxury watches attracted collectors and connoisseurs, while contemporary fashion activations, including beautifully crafted abayas blended heritage with modern design. The event, powered by The Luxury Network, radiated exclusivity and effortless glamour, reinforcing its position as one of the most anticipated fixtures on the UAE’s social calendar.

“The Championship Final between Bin Drai and Jehangiri truly reflected the elevated standard of polo we continue to witness in the UAE,” said Shokry Abouelsoud, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. “Beyond the sport itself, finals day has evolved into a complete lifestyle experience, bringing together elegance, community and world-class entertainment in one extraordinary setting.”

Khalid Essa Alyassi, Director of Emaar Leisure Club, added, “Emaar is proud to support an event that seamlessly blends sporting excellence with luxury and heritage. The atmosphere during the final was exceptional, from the curated hospitality to the vibrant showcases and performances. This is exactly the kind of world-class experience we are committed to creating for the community.”

The 2026 edition was proudly supported by title sponsor Emaar, alongside Legend Motors and its 212 vehicle brand, CMC Hospital as medical partner, and Dubai Sports Council as media partner, underscoring the tournament’s strong commercial and community foundation.

With a prize pool that included AED 120,000 and a 212 vehicle for the champions, AED 75,000 for the runners-up, and a AED 5,000 MVP award, the championship delivered both prestige and performance. The Emaar Polo Cup 2026 concluded not merely as a sporting triumph, but as a celebration of refined living, tradition and the glamour that defines polo in the UAE.

Where Italian Artistry Met the Open Sea

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FABianaMARe brought a refined touch of Italian craftsmanship recently to Yas Rendezvous 2025, joining the region’s first immersive yachting destination experience as a Luxury Lifestyle Supporting Partner. From Yas Marina to the wild beauty of Sir Bani Yas Island, the journey unfolded as a celebration of freedom, discovery, and elevated living.

Across salt-kissed mornings, sunset gatherings, and moments spent between sea, desert, and sky, FABianaMARe Dubai’s presence felt perfectly at home, reflecting a shared love for the ocean, artisanal design, and meaningful experiences. Rooted in Italian heritage and shaped by the UAE’s modern luxury spirit, the brand added depth, elegance, and soul to an extraordinary voyage.

More than a sailing experience, Yas Rendezvous became a story of craftsmanship, connection, and lifestyle, one where every detail mattered, and every moment was worth remembering.