Category: Family Corner

  • Abu Dhabi to Host the Largest Russian Festival Fair at YasBay Waterfront

    Abu Dhabi to Host the Largest Russian Festival Fair at YasBay Waterfront

    Abu Dhabi to Host the Largest Russian Festival Fair at YasBay Waterfront

    Experience the rich flavours, artistry, and culture of Russia in the heart of the UAE

    Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: The UAE capital is set to welcome the "Made in Russia Festival Fair, taking place from 21 to 25 February 2025 at Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Organised in collaboration with the Russian Export Center, this vibrant festival invites residents and visitors to embark on an immersive journey into Russia’s rich cultural heritage,traditions, and cutting-edge industries, all in a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
    With free entry, the festival promises a diverse programme filled with exciting showcases, live performances, and exclusive shopping experiences featuring authentic Russian products.

    A Taste of Russia: Culinary Experiences 

    Specialty Products Visitors can explore a wide selection of premium Russian products, including luxurious sweets, freshly baked goods, creamy ice cream, exquisite berry jams, and the beloved traditional pastila. The festival also features dairy products, healthy snacks, and fitness essentials, catering to a variety of tastes.
    For food lovers, live cooking demonstrations will showcase iconic Russian dishes, including blini (Russian pancakes) and syrniki (cottage cheese pancakes), giving guests the chance to witness the art of Russian cuisine and indulge in an authentic tasting experience.
    The festival brings together over 10 leading Russian beauty brands, featuring eco-friendly, natural skincare and cosmetic products known for their high quality and effectiveness. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover and purchase exclusive beauty products that reflect Russia’s growing reputation in the global cosmetics industry.
    One of the festival’s cultural highlights is Mezen painting, a centuries-old artistic tradition from Russia’s northern regions. This distinctive art form is characterised by its bold black and red patterns,reflecting the deep-rooted cultural heritage of the Mezen region in Arkhangelsk. Guests can explore the intricacies of this craft and witness live demonstrations by skilled artists.

    Spectacular Russian Music & Dance Performances

    The festival will host captivating live performances by some of Russia’s most renowned artists,including:
    Slaviane Folk Ensemble – An award-winning folk music group from Moscow’s State
    Academic Theatre Russkaya Pesnya, known for their dynamic performances.
     Islamey; State Folk Song Ensemble – A celebrated group from Adygea, performing a rich repertoire of traditional Russian and North Caucasian music.
     Opera sensation Daria Kuznetsova, bringing the grandeur of classical Russian opera to Abu Dhabi.
     The world-famous TODES dance troupe, led by the legendary Alla Dukhova, delivering electrifying choreography and breathtaking performances.

    Families and children will enjoy exclusive screenings of Russia’s most popular animated films, presented by leading studios such as Platoshka, Mechtalet, RIKI Group, and Soyuzmultfilm. In the evenings, the festival transforms into an entertainment hub with a DJ KIDY music performance and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
    For art lovers and tech enthusiasts, the Prostor digital art platform by VK will showcase contemporary
    Russian art, while a specially curated virtual reality gaming zone will provide an immersive VR experience powered by Lasertag.
    Beyond culture and entertainment, the festival also serves as a strategic business platform to promote
    Russian exports and foster new commercial partnerships. A dedicated B2B networking programme will bring together industry professionals, paving the way for exciting trade and investment opportunities between Russia and the UAE.Come and celebrate Russian culture, innovation, and creativity at Yas Bay Waterfront, where Abu Dhabi meets the spirit of Russia!END

  • Upgrade your stay, upgrade your fun with Yas Island Abu Dhabi

    Upgrade your stay, upgrade your fun with Yas Island Abu Dhabi

    Upgrade your stay, upgrade your fun with Yas Island Abu Dhabi’s exclusive package this February

    Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: This February mid-term break, Yas Island Abu Dhabi invites families and adventure-seekers to take their getaway to the next level with an exclusive free room upgrade on its Stay & Play packages. For a limited time, guests can enjoy upgraded accommodations at participating hotels while diving into a world of thrills, excitement and unforgettable memories.
    Until February 14, 2025, guests booking a Stay Play package at participating hotels will automatically
    receive a complimentary room upgrade to the next available category. Whether it’s a family escape or a
    weekend getaway with friends, this special offer guarantees an elevated experience that combines
    relaxation with unrivaled entertainment.
    With stays valid until February 28, 2025, the promotion features a stellar lineup of participating hotels,
    including W Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island and Yas Plaza Hotels such as Crowne Plaza Yas Island Abu Dhabi,
    Radisson Blu Hotel Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Centro Yas Island by
    Rotana, and Yas Island Rotana Abu Dhabi. Yas Neighbour Hotels, including Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi,
    Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Abu Dhabi, Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Rotana Resort
    & Villas, Al Raha Beach Hotel, and Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, are also part of this exciting offer.
    Guests can craft their dream holiday with packages starting from just one night, paired with access to
    one of Yas Island’s award-winning theme parks.
    Yas Island is home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions, from the high-speed thrills of Ferrari
    World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and the aquatic adventures of Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, to
    the charming experiences of Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and the World’s Largest
    Indoor Marine Life Theme Park, SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. With so much to explore, the free
    room upgrade ensures that every guest’s stay perfectly matches the excitement of the experiences
    awaiting them.
    This exclusive offer blends luxury, fun and endless entertainment into one unbeatable package. It’s the
    perfect opportunity to elevate a mid-term break with loved ones. Don’t miss the chance to create lasting
    memories and experience the ultimate escape on Yas Island.
    For bookings and more information, please visit www.yasisland.com (-ENDS-)

  • Savour The  Expansive Iftar At Authentic Pakistani Restaurant

    Savour The  Expansive Iftar At Authentic Pakistani Restaurant

    Savour The  Expansive Iftar At Authentic Pakistani Restaurant—Barbecue Delights in JBR

    Iftar Buffet offers 50+ varieties of dishes and is priced at  AED 85 on weekdays and AED 95 on weekends

    Dubai(News Desk):: This Ramadan, experience a lavish Iftar buffet at Barbecue Delights, a popular Pakistani restaurant in JBR, offering stunning views of Ain Dubai. With over 50 mouth-watering dishes, Barbecue Delights brings you the best of Pakistani, Afghani, and North Indian cuisines at an unbeatable price, making it a must-try this Holy Month.

    The Iftar buffet  includes;  a wide variety of traditional Iftar dishes, salads & starters, fried items, live BBQ grills, rice dishes, curries, & desserts. Some of the highlights include dates, Chana Chaat ,Fruit Chaat, Dahi Baray, Haleem, Pakora, Samosa, Rooh Afza, Hummus, Tabbouleh, Beetroot Salad Fattoush, Banjan Borani , Fried Prawns (Weekends Only), Lahori Fried Fish, Mutton Seekh Kabab , Chicken Malai Tikka , Chicken Boti, Chicken Shashlik, Fish Tikka / Garlic Fish, Chicken Manchurian, Mutton Karahi, Chicken Qorma, Beef Nihari, Jelly, Jalebi, Shahi Tukrey, Gulab Jamun, Badami Kheer, and so much more. 

    Barbecue Delights Iftar Buffet is priced at at  AED 85 on weekdays and AED 95 on weekends For kids, it will be priced at AED 45.

    What:  Savour The  Expansive Iftar At Authetic Pakistani Restaurant—Barbecue Delights in JBR 

    Prices: AED 85 on weekdays and AED 95 on weekends For kids, it will be priced at AED 45.

    Iftar Buffet Timings: Sunset–8.30pm 

    Contact : JBR (058 623 6116)

    Instagram : @bbqdelights

     

  • iCodejr Launches Arab Kids Code to Empower STEME ducation in Arabic Schools

    iCodejr Launches Arab Kids Code to Empower STEME ducation in Arabic Schools

    iCodejr Launches Arab Kids Code to Empower STEME ducation in Arabic Schools

    New initiative aims to equip one million young coders across the MENA region withessential digital skillsby providing world-class learning programs, equippingstudents withthe technical knowledge and problem-solving skills essential for the future

    Dubai(News Desk)::iCodejr,a leading STEM education provider, haslaunchedArab Kids Code, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to bringing high-qualitycoding and STEM education to Arabic schools across the region. The initiative aims tobridge the digital skills gap by providing world-class learning programs, equipping studentswith the technical knowledge and problem-solving skills essential for the future.

    Through partnerships with schools, corporate sponsors, and government initiatives, ArabKids Code will offer a range of instructor-ledand self-pacedcourses, coding competitions,and teacher training programs tailored for students aged 7-16. The initiative’s goal is toempower one million young coders across the MENA region, ensuring no child is left behindin the digital revolution.

    “At iCodejr, we believe that every childdeserves access to quality STEM education. WithArab Kids Code, we are committed to nurturing future innovators by bringing coding andtechnology-driven learning to classrooms across the Arab world,” said Hannan Moti, Co-Founder of iCodejr. “By collaborating with schools and institutions, we hope to create ageneration of creative thinkers, problem solvers, and digital leaders ready to take on thechallenges of tomorrow.

    ”Studentsand institutionsparticipating in Arab Kids Code will have access to a diversecurriculum covering game development, artificial intelligence, web development, and designthinking, among other STEM disciplines. Additionally, iCodejr is a Microsoft AuthorizedEducation Partner, allowing participating students to benefit from free Microsoft 365subscriptions, including Minecraft for Education.

    Arab Kids Codewill be officially introducedin the UAEat theupcomingRas Al KhaimahInnovation Exhibition, taking place from11-13 February 2025as part of theUAE InnovationMonthcelebrations. The exhibitionwillserve as a key platform for showcasinggroundbreaking advancements in education, technology, and innovation, making it an idealsetting for the launch of this initiative.

    With a proven track record of hosting UAE’s largest inter-school hackathon,Code Battle,iCodejr continues to drive innovation in STEM education. Arab Kids Code is poised tobecome a leading force in equipping Arab youth with the tools they need to thrive in a tech-driven world.For more information aboutArab KidsCodeand how schools can participate, visithttp://Arabkidscode.org.

  • The Magic Box Brings Music, Storytelling, and Interactive Fun to Abu Dhabi

    The Magic Box Brings Music, Storytelling, and Interactive Fun to Abu Dhabi

    The Magic Box Brings Music, Storytelling, and Interactive Fun to Abu Dhabi this February featuring music from Disney’s beloved songbook

    From school initiatives, Valentine’s surprises & more: Disney’s The Magic Box is the event of the season!

    Abu Dhabi (News Desk):: Set to captivate audiences across the UAE, Disney’s The Magic Box musical arrives in Abu Dhabi from February 6th to February 15th, 2025, at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island. This limited time show is set to captivate the hearts of all generations with its timeless songs and enchanting visuals that rekindles childhood memories and encourages new adventures.

    Ahead of the show’s public debut, Proactiv Entertainment and Fever are organizing an exclusive preview performance for UAE schools on February 5th, 2025, bringing the magic of The Magic Box beyond the stage. Alongside this special preview, students will enjoy a full day of interactive activities and performance workshops, leading up to a memorable “Spotlight Moment” chorus performance.

    Nicolas Renna, CEO of Proactiv Entertainment, emphasized the significance of integrating schools into the arts, stating: “At Proactiv Entertainment we have always believed in the power of theatre to inspire educate, and spark creativity in young minds. Over the past few shows, such as Hamilton, Matilda and Life of Pi, we have successfully introduced thousands of students to the magic of live performance, and with Disney The Magic Box, we take the next step in that beautiful journey. This production is more than just a show—it’s an opportunity to nurture the next generation’s love for theatre and musical storytelling, ensuring that the wonder of the stage continues to thrive for years to come.”

    Throughout the season, audiences can look forward to special themed offers, including an invitation to dress up on Opening Night as one of their favourite characters and Valentine’s Day Specials.

    An international fan-favorite, Disney’s The Magic Box celebrates the timeless legacy of Disney through music, storytelling, and innovative theatrical techniques. Making its regional debut, this highly anticipated event combines over 75 beloved Disney songs, cutting-edge stagecraft, and an inspiring narrative to create an experience that transcends generations. This large-scale production comes together with an all-South African cast and crew to bring creator and co-writer Felipe Gamba Paredes’ vision to life.

    Disney’s The Magic Box brings to life the artistry and talent of the native cast, celebrating the nation’s rich creative heritage on a global stage. Disney’s The Magic Box not only highlights the craftsmanship of South African artists but also reinforces the importance of collaboration and cultural exchange. The South African Business Council in the UAE proudly supports this initiative, championing the success of its professionals in the region and fostering stronger connections between the UAE and South African creative industries.

    Disney’s The Magic Box brings to life the artistry and talent of the native cast, celebrating the nation’s rich creative heritage on a global stage. This show not only highlights the craftsmanship of South African artists but also reinforces the importance of collaboration and cultural exchange. The South African Business Council in the UAE proudly supports this initiative, championing the success of its professionals in the region and fostering stronger connections between the UAE and South African creative industries.

    For more information and to secure tickets, visit Fever’s website and app today.

     

     

     

  • Veo Fitness Offering Complimentary Guest Passes this Valentine’s Day

    Veo Fitness Offering Complimentary Guest Passes this Valentine’s Day

    Veo Fitness Invites you to Share the Love by Offering Complimentary Guest Passes this Valentine’s Day

    Sign up for a Veo membership before February 14th and receive two exclusive guest passes for your loved ones, valid for one week

     Dubai(News Desk)::This Valentine’s Day, Veo Fitness is celebrating love, health, and togetherness with a special offer designed to help members share their fitness journey. To ensure the romance is felt across the city, anyone who signs up for a new membership before February 14th will receive two complimentary guest passes—because nothing says ‘I care’ like inspiring someone to prioritise their wellbeing.

    Veo is more than just a gym—it’s a community-driven fitness hub offering a diverse range of classes to suit every preference. Offering everything from adrenaline-pumping HIIT and cycling sessions to mindfulness-boosting yoga and sound healing, there’s something for everyone. Members and guests alike can explore Veo’s expertly led GX classes, push their limits with personal training sessions, or enjoy a post-workout recovery with complimentary pool access.

    This Valentine’s, don’t just gift chocolates—gift an experience that lasts. Sign up at Veo today and invite your loved ones to embark on a fitness journey together. With this limited-time offer, there’s no better reason to get moving and make health a priority.

    For more information, please follow Veo on Instagram or visit www.veofitness.com.    

  • Try the Award-Winning Vegan Vintage Vanilla Giant Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich

    Try the Award-Winning Vegan Vintage Vanilla Giant Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich

    Veganuary: Try the Award-Winning Vegan Vintage  Vanilla Giant Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich by The Brooklyn Creamery

    Dubai(News Desk):: Veganuary is more than just a trend—it’s a movement toward healthier, more sustainable choices. This January, The Brooklyn Creamery invites you to redefine Veganuary with a touch of indulgence.
    Going vegan doesn’t mean giving up the joy of your favorite desserts. Thanks to The Brooklyn Creamery’s innovative approach to plant-based treats, you can now indulge guilt-free, without sacrificing taste, quality, or your goals. At the heart of their offerings is the award-winning Vegan Vintage Vanilla Giant Cookie Sandwich, recognized by the International Taste Institute for its exceptional  flavor. This indulgent delight is just one example of how The Brooklyn Creamery is
    transforming plant-based desserts. With a vegan range that includes ice cream tubs,cones, bars, and bonbons, there’s something for everyone who wants to enjoy plant-based living while savoring every bite.
    “At The Brooklyn Creamery, we believe indulgence should be for everyone,”said Shivaan Ghai, Founder of The Brooklyn Creamery. “This Veganuary, we’reproud to celebrate our vegan range, which delivers not only on mindfulness but also on flavor.
    Winning the Superior Taste Award is a testament to our dedication to creating exceptional plant-based desserts that combine indulgence with innovation.We’re committed to pushing boundaries and delivering even more mouthwatering options to our customers.”
    The Brooklyn Creamery’s vegan ice creams are available for delivery through Talabat, Deliveroo, Careem, and Noon Food, as well as on e-grocery platforms like Noon Minutes and Careem Quick. For an in-person experience, visit select Grandiose, Geant, and Carrefour stores to explore these delicious offerings.
    Make this Veganuary unforgettable with The Brooklyn Creamery—because plant-based indulgence has never tasted this good.
  • More to explore with yet another new experience

    More to explore with yet another new experience

    More to explore with yet another new experience

    Deerfields Mall introduces Xtreme Bowling, ushering a unique fun experience for families.

    Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: Deerfields Mall kicks off the new year by treating families to yet another unique experience with the grand opening of Xtreme Bowling in the second week of 2025. It’s the first-of-its-kind bowling alley for children and adults in Al Bahia, Khalida A, Al Reef, and Al Rahba areas.

    Xtreme Bowling features eight state-of-the-art lanes, a vibrant arcade with a diverse selection of games, and a dedicated F&B outlet. This exciting addition marks a significant step in Deerfields Mall’s ongoing transformation of Level 2 into a premier entertainment destination, providing residents with a wide range of engaging leisure options within their community.

    “We are thrilled to introduce Xtreme Bowling to our valued customers,” said Nabil Essakouti, General Manager of Deerfields Mall. “This exciting new venue offers a unique and enjoyable experience for all ages, fostering fun and memorable moments with friends and family. We are committed to continually enhancing our offerings and providing exceptional experiences for our community.”Xtreme Bowling invites guests to experience the thrill of bowling, billiards, darts, and a variety of exciting video games in a comfortable and enjoyable setting.

    About Deerfields Mall::Deerfields Mall is a popular family destination mall in Abu Dhabi strategically located in the emirate’s Al Shahama and Al Bahia areas. Conveniently nestled at the entrance of Abu Dhabi, off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Highway (E11), and a few minutes from Khalifa City, Al Raha Beach, the Hydra Village, and Al Reef residential areas, Deerfields Mall offers easy access to exciting shopping experiences and leisure activities for all families.

    With more than 200 brands including anchor stores such as Adidas, Crocs, H&M, Kiko, Homes R Us, Pan Home, Home Box, The Body Shop, Max, Fabyland, Royal Cinema, Centrepoint and Carrefour, Deerfields Mall focuses on quality products, serving as the place to be for fun, entertainment, and dining. Deerfields Mall boasts an array of dining options through their exciting Restaurant Walk, including Otantik Café & Restaurant, Zaman Beirut, La Brioche, India Palace Restaurant, Off the Hook, Bursa, Café Be.K, Pizza Hut, Tres Bien Restaurant & Café and more.

    END

  • ADSSA Names FAB as Banking Partner for Facilitated Marriage Loan Service

    ADSSA Names FAB as Banking Partner for Facilitated Marriage Loan Service

    Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority Names First AbuDhabi Bank as Banking Partner for Facilitated Marriage Loan Service under Emirati Family Growth Programme

    Authority receives 515 marriage loan applications since September 2024

    Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: The Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (ADSSA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), one of the UAE’s largest financial institutions, appointing it as the banking partner for ADSSA’s marriage loan service. This strategic initiative is part of the Emirati Family Growth Programme launched by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi to enhance the quality of life and boost social cohesion in the emirate.
    The MoU, signed by Her Excellency Dr Bushra Al Mulla, Director General of ADSSA, and Futoon Al Mazrouei, Group Head of Consumer Banking at FAB, during a meeting that convened senior representatives from both parties at ADSSAs headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
    Since launching the service in September 2024, ADSSA has received 515 applications for the facilitated marriage loan service, 58% of which are eligible to benefit from the service while 32% do not meet the necessary criteria, and 10% are currently under review.
    Applicants approved as per FABs terms and conditions will receive a notification to complete the requirements for obtaining the loan, preceded by a process to verify the creditworthiness of the nominated applicants. This will be carried out by FAB in cooperation with relevant authorities.
    The facilitated marriage loan service aims to ease the financial burdens of newlywed Emirati couples by offering completely an interest-free loan of up to AED 150,000 to allow them to start a stable married life. Aligning with the commitment of Abu Dhabi’s wise leadership to encourage young Emiratis to marry, have children and build a stable family, and fostering cohesive families, the service instils the culture of facilitated marriage and emphasises its crucial role in ensuring marital stability by alleviating financial pressures on young people.
    Commenting on the announcement, H.E. Dr Bushra Al Mulla said: “We are truly proud of the progress we have achieved until now in serving Abu Dhabis community, whether through our core social support services or those stemming from the Growth programme. We aim to provide a comprehensive system of services and programmes to enable all our beneficiaries to live a decent life, achieve financial and family stability, and contribute positively to their community.”
    She added: “As part of our special synergy with First Abu Dhabi Bank, the banking partner for Abu Dhabi’s Social Support Programme, we are confident that beneficiaries of ADSSAs facilitated marriage loan service will enjoy an exceptional banking experience.

    Congratulations to all recipients of the initial loan disbursements, and we wish them success in building stable families.” Futoon Al Mazrouei, Group Head of Consumer Banking at FAB, said: “We aim to provide
    Emirati youth with the required resources and facilities to secure their financial well-being.
    This partnership will help young people in our community to make informed financialdecisions that protect their funds and investments. Enabling them to do so aligns with our commitment to our nations vision while upholding our familial and social values and empowering our youth. At FAB, we are dedicated to integrating the principles of sustainable development into all our initiatives, allowing us to play a key role in progressing human capital, thereby fostering a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.” To be eligible for the marriage loan, applicants must be UAE nationals holding Family Books
    issued in Abu Dhabi, complete registration in the “Medeem” programme, and select a wedding package provided through the programme. ADSSA reviews all applications within 30 days from the submission date via the “TAMM” platform.
    In addition, to benefit from the one-time facilitated marriage loan, applicants must not have been previously married, except in the case of widowers; the groom must be at least 21 years old and the bride at least 18 years old at the time of the marriage contract. The groom must apply within six months of the date of the marriage contract. Furthermore, after deducting pension contributions, the groom’s total monthly salary should not exceed AED 60,000 at the time of application, and he must meet the creditworthiness requirements aligned with UAE banking policies.
    As part of the initiatives under the Growth programme, the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority also manages the extended maternity leave service for Emirati mothers working in the private sector. This service extends maternity leave to 90 days, ensuring new mothers have adequate time for rest and childcare before returning to work.

  • A Winter Full of Surprises:The Snow Kingdom Takes Over Bawabat Al Sharq Mall!

    A Winter Full of Surprises:The Snow Kingdom Takes Over Bawabat Al Sharq Mall!

    A Winter Full of Surprises:The Snow Kingdom Takes Over Bawabat Al Sharq Mall!

    Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: Every season reveals new surprises at Bawabat Al Sharq Mall. However, there’s  always something extra that winter brings along with its warm family gatherings and ongoing celebrations.
    Visitors to Bawabat Al Sharq Mall anticipate the delightful winter experiences they get to enjoy with their loved ones every year at the mall, creating the best memories together. This time, “SNOW KINGDOM,” a spectacular musical play, awaits them on December 20th, 21st, 22nd, 27th, 28th, and 29th, with three evening shows scheduled at 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:30 PM.
    In between shows, visitors can enjoy the exceptional shopping experience Bawabat Al Sharq Mall offers by shopping for  everything on their wish list, from local brands to international brands, taking advantage of the seasonal offers. With every 200 dirhams spent at any store, shoppers will also get a chance to enter the big raffle draw for a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2024 on January 6th, 2025. Shoppers can double their chances of winning by shopping on the first floor.
    It’s time to be jolly at Bawabat Al Sharq Mall! Families and friends,join us for fabulous musical shows, a cheerful shopping ambiance, and countless possibilities to create unforgettable memories at your favorite shopping and entertainment destination in Abu Dhabi.