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FROM NEW RAIL ROUTES TO WATERSLIDES, BUTTERFLY HOUSES TO 210,000-YEAR-OLD CAVES — YOUR WHOLE SEASON OF WEEKENDS, SORTED

PLUS: NEW FITNESS EVENTS | REOPENED RESTAURANTS | SHORT-HAUL BREAKS

THE EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY OF

Cat STevens

READ HIS BESTSELLING AUTOBIOGRAPHY THAT’S MAKING WAVES AROUND THE WORLD A v A i l A b l e At A l l m A j o r b o o k s t o r e s A n d o n b o o k s A r A b i A . c o m

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CONTENTS

ON TRACK… P08 Etihad Rail’s expanding network is making the emirates more accessible than ever – we’ve mapped out the ultimate route.

14 INSDER’S GUIDE TO NOOR ISLAND A green escape with butterflies, art, and plenty more to explore.

16 FAMILY FUN IN AJMAN Is this emirate becoming an up-and-coming family must-visit? We think so.

16 WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 3

Cover:

Sheila Deocareza

Stay in touch

WhatsOn.ae Our stunning website is packed with news, restaurants, culture, shopping, sport and spas. It’s your online destination for stuff to do in the UAE. Get clicking.

REGULARS 42 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT A resort where both adults and kids leave happy? Sign us up.

CONSUME

ACTIVE

22 KARMA KAFÉ BY BUDDHA-BAR

32 RUN FOR IT

A revamped chef-inspired menu? We had to go see – and taste – for ourselves.

Cooler climes means it’s time to lace up and grab a new PB.

23 BAR DU PORT

Catch your breath and release stress at Avitane Spa.

34 SPA REVIEW

26 25

CULTURE

23 4 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

26 CULTURAL SITES The emirates are full of inspiring landmarks that bring a newfound appreciation to our country.

TRAVEL 36 SHORT-HAUL MARVELS We’ve got the best destinations that are a six-hours-or-less flight way for your next holiday booking.

Find us on social Photo credit: Getty Images, Unsplash and supplied

This popular restaurant has reopened and is raring to go.

What’s On Digital Your essential guide to what’s happening in Northern Emirates is also available on the App Store.

WhatsOnDubai

FIND US HERE

THE UAE’S ULTIMATE FAMILY STAYCATION HAS ARRIVED

From villas with private pools to the Northern Emirates’ longest pool, Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort has built a staycation entirely around family time – with an all-inclusive option that means the only decision left is which pool to jump in first

inding a staycation that keeps everyone happy – toddlers, teens and parents alike – is no small task. At Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort, it’s the whole point. This beachfront address in Al Hamra Village has been designed from the ground up as the UAE’s go-to family escape, and the details prove it. Start with where you’ll actually sleep. Beyond the resort’s rooms and suites, families after extra space and privacy can book one of the villas with a private pool – ideal for multi-generational trips or anyone who’d rather skip the shared sunbed scramble altogether. For total peace of mind on the budget front, the resort’s all-inclusive option folds dining, drinks and more into one straightforward rate, so there’s no need to keep tabs on the bill between breakfast and the last cocktail of the night.

The pool itself is a headline act. Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort is home to the longest pool in the Northern Emirates, giving guests serious room to swim, float and unwind, while a dedicated aqua splash zone keeps younger guests entertained with its own set of water features. Parents after a proper break can drop kids and teens at the resort’s dedicated clubs, where supervised activities and age-specific programming mean everyone gets their own kind of holiday under one roof. Mealtimes bring just as much variety. With seven restaurants and bars on site, the resort’s culinary line-up spans the globe: East serves up Levantine flavours with a contemporary edge, Reunion brings French

brasserie classics with a coastal update, and WAKA leans into South Pacificinspired dishes and tiki cocktails against a beachfront backdrop. Whether it’s a family dinner or a quiet date-night table for two, there’s an outlet – and a mood – to match. Then there’s the beach. Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort’s private stretch of sand comes with a full roster of water activities, putting everything from paddleboarding to jet skiing within easy reach without ever having to leave the resort. It’s the kind of setup that turns “what should we do today” into the easiest question of the trip. Foodie weekend, splash-about family break or full-on all-inclusive reset – Sofitel Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach Resort has built a staycation that works for every member of the family, and then some. SOFITEL RAS AL KHAIMAH AL HAMRA BEACH RESORT Al Hamra Village, Vienna Street, Ras Al Khaimah sofitel.accor.com/en/hotels/B9F8.html TO BOOK: 07 209 6000 or HB9F8-RE@sofitel.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne GROUP CONTENT DIRECTOR Thomas Woodgate thomas.woodgate@motivate.ae

EDITORIAL

COMMERCIAL

ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES EDITOR Aarti Saundalkar

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR, DUBAI & NORTHERN EMIRATES Violeta Popescu

SENIOR ONLINE REPORTER Jumira Hancock SENIOR REPORTER, ABU DHABI Shantelle Nagarajan REPORTER Lana Du SOCIAL MEDIA EXECUTIVE Steffi Sebastian

violeta.popescu@motivate.ae

SENIOR SALES MANAGER Pamela Bayram pamela.bayram@motivate.ae

SALES MANAGER, ABU DHABI Lina Abdelaziz lina.abdelaziz@motivate.ae

SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE Ali Mohammad ONLINE REPORTER Afrah Bari ONLINE REPORTER Rasha Hassan JUNIOR REPORTER Shifali Jain CONTRIBUTORS Alice Holtham-Pargin, Laura Coughlin, Leonie Wagner, Miles Buckeridge, Sammi Barnard, Yi-Hwa Hanna

DESIGN ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza

ali.mohammad@motivate.ae

PRODUCTION GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Venita Pinto WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

CREATIVE STUDIO CONTENT PRODUCTION MANAGER Surajit Dutta CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Mark Mathew CONTENT PRODUCER/STUDIO MANAGER John Melencion

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6 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

WELCOME

HOME TURF

TEAM’S POV

We answer the questions you didn’t even ask.

If you could hop on the Etihad Rail to anywhere in the UAE right now, where’s your first stop and why? Alice HolthamPargin Contributing Editor

very September, post-summer conversations tend to veer towards what’s new, what’s next and, of course, how each of our respective summers went. The latter usually folding into the former. But with the Northern Emirates edition, it’s less about discovery, more about what’s changed, opened, or finally been given the recognition it’s earned. Or, just as importantly, reminding us of what’s already there and what awaits us. In many ways, Etihad Rail is the clearest example of this. In the Dubai edition of What’s On, we’re framing it as an escape route out of the city. Up here, the story is more useful than that: it’s infrastructure that finally connects Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah without a single highway in between. We’ve mapped the ideal route, along with how to maximise your time (starting on page 8). Reading it, I’ve been inspired to start mapping out my weekends more. Heritage is where this issue does its most work. Al Faya’s UNESCO listing last July put Sharjah on a very short list of sites globally – one of the oldest records of human habitation outside Africa, older than almost anything else on Earth. It’s the kind of thing that deserves proper coverage rather than a passing mention, so we’ve built out 15 sites across the emirates worth the drive, from Al Faya to a fort that saw off the British navy (page 26). For families, Ajman’s scene has expanded fast – new water parks, trampoline zones, stables – and we’ve done the legwork on pricing, hours and which ones are actually worth a full day rather than a quick stop (page 16). Runners get a proper autumn calendar this issue too, including a new night race through Fili’s newly restored fort, which is as good an excuse as any to see it lit up after dark (page 32). And yes, I’m considering lacing up for it. Once the season’s cooler mornings give way to evenings on the mountain, Red Rock BBQ reopens on Jebel Jais this October – open-fire dining 2,000 metres up. We spoke to executive chef Iker Zapata Errasti ahead of the return; the smoked brisket comes personally recommended (page 24). This issue is for the readers who already know what makes this region worth covering properly. We hope it does it justice. Enjoy the issue.

THOMAS WOODGATE GROUP CONTENT DIRECTOR

“As a non-driver, the opening of the Liwa station on November 30 is going to be a game-changer for me. Sign me up for a season of winter desert adventures.”

Steffi Sebastian Social Media Executive “With the summer behind us and slightly-cooler weeks ahead, I’m looking forward to a weekend in the mountains – anywhere really! It’s the perfect break from Dubai.”

Shifali Jain Junior Reporter “Probably Liwa, – it’s known for its heritage sites, archaeology, massive dunes and also one of the most scenic routes to the destination. I’m looking forward to taking it all in from a different point of view.” WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 7

E M I R AT E S B Y R A I L

FUJAIRAH SHARJAH DUBAI ABU DHABI

This season, . e m o h t a s y e rk had Rail. and leave you ti E n io rd it a n o b ig a e is th s te Turn off over the emira c is d to y a w t ect route… rf e p e the bes th d e n n And we’ve pla -PARGIN E HOLTHAM

WORDS: ALIC

8 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

E M I R AT E S B Y R A I L

Liwa, Abu Dhabi

LIWA, ABU DHABI

Begin your multi-emirate exploration in the golden dunes of the Liwa desert. The Liwa Etihad Rail station opens on November 30, just in time for the return of the cooler weather, making desert adventures all the more appealing. Stay: Amongst the golden dunes at Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa (babalnojoum.com), where 55 sumptuous pool villas are tucked among the golden landscape. Villas all feature floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise the breathtaking setting, a plunge pool under the stars, and a living room dotted with hand-sewn wall art, a nod to the region’s heritage. Wake up to breakfast delivered to your villa, then spend the day enjoying all that the desert has to offer. Room rates from September start from Dhs535.50. Do: The vast golden Liwa desert sits on the northern edge of the Empty Quarter, so whether you’re looking for high-octane thrills or something more low-key, there’s a desert activity for you. Hop in a buggy and go dune bashing, surf the golden slopes with sandboarding, or stay up late and admire the constellations with an evening of stargazing. Don’t miss: Liwa International Festival returns from December 11 until January 2, bringing with it entertainment aplenty, culinary takeovers, live music and cultural celebrations that make the most of the stunning desert setting.

WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 9

E M I R AT E S B Y R A I L

MADINAT ZAYED, ABU DHABI

A gateway to Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region joins the network the same day as Liwa, November 30, putting the Empty Quarter’s second desert base within easy reach of the capital – and its neighbouring emirates. Stay: If you want to make a few days of it, let Aldhafra Resort (aldhafraresort. com), be your five-star base. A grand desert retreat on the edge of the Rub’ al Khali (also known as the Empty Quarter), rooms look out over rolling dunes, there’s an infinity pool and spa, and two complimentary activities are included with every stay: think camel rides, sand artistry or Gahwa tasting. September stays start from Dhs480. Do: Arrange a desert safari that will take you to the Moreeb Dunes, among the tallest in the Middle East, and the annual stage for the Liwa dune-bashing competition for a day of epic thrills and panoramic vistas of the flame-hued empty quarter. Once you’re back at base, cosy up for stargazing and movie nights under the open sky to round out an unmissable desert evening. Don’t miss: The 20th Al Dhafra Festival runs from October 27, 2026 to January 12, 2027, with its Madinat Zayed stage playing host to camel beauty pageants, heritage markets and a range of heritage competitions with total prize money exceeding Dhs97 million.

Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi

MOHAMED BIN ZAYED CITY, ABU DHABI

Already active since the Etihad Rail’s passenger network’s June 30 launch, MBZ City station is the starting point for Etihad Rail’s introductory route to Fujairah. It’s located in the city’s industrial area, and while nearby is mostly an industrial and residential zone, the station’s real draw is what it unlocks nearby: the capital’s array of action-packed, all-star attractions. If you’re keen to linger near the station, Dalma Mall is just opposite, home to over 450 venues, as well as a cinema, VR park and Leo & Loona soft play, but we suggest hopping in a 30-minute taxi to Yas Island. Stay: W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island (marriott.com), the only hotel in the world built on top of a Formula 1 circuit. Its two towers straddle the Yas Marina track itself, with the open-air Wet Deck pool, seven dining venues and that famous illuminated Grid Shell canopy overhead. Rates in September start from Dhs579. Do: It’s impossible to cram everything Yas Island has to offer into one visit. Thrill seekers are spoiled for choice with theme parks including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World and Yas Waterworld, while those looking to enjoy some retail therapy can delight in an array of shops at Yas Mall. Keen to do something more relaxed? Try a round of golf at Yas Links or chill out poolside at Café Del Mar, the pool club at Yas Bay. Don’t miss: There’s a huge calendar of upcoming events bringing the noise, theatre and drama to Etihad Arena with UFC 333 taking place in October, and Hans Zimmer making his much-anticipated return in November.

10 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

W Abu Dhabi

AL YALAYIS, DUBAI

Connecting Dubai by train to Abu Dhabi, Fujairah and Sharjah from September 30, Etihad Rail’s Dubai station puts the city firmly on the national map. When you arrive in Jumeirah Golf Estates, you’re plugged straight into the emirate’s non-stop energy, with world-class shopping, dining and nightlife always just a beat away. Stay: If you want to be near the Etihad Rail station, a hotel like FIVE Jumeirah Village (fivehotelsandresorts.com) is arguably among the most convenient, providing its signature blend of glamour and party spirit. Think sky villas with private pools, seventeen dining and entertainment concepts, and DJ sets that spin from the poolside until the early hours, with affordable room rates from Dhs310 per night. But the rail network puts the rest of the city within easy reach, so you’re never far from Dubai’s newest headline stays either: pick Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai for skyline glamour beside the Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab for its striking wave-shaped silhouette on the coast, or the soon-to-open Six Senses The Palm, bringing a boutique, wellness-driven stay to Palm Jumeirah’s West Crescent in the final quarter of the year. Do: If you’re looking to experience Dubai’s big-hitting highlights, plan your stop around riding the waves at Aquaventure, taking in the view from Burj Khalifa’s At the Top, or wandering around the fragrant souks in Old Dubai. Don’t miss: The DP World Tour Championship, the season’s Rolex Series finale, returns to the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 12 to 15, offering front-row access to the biggest event on the European golf calendar, right by the station.

Jumeirah Golf Estates

WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 11

E M I R AT E S B Y R A I L

Moon Retreat

AL DHAID STATION, SHARJAH

Dhaid drops you straight into Sharjah’s desert hinterland, a world away from the coast. The emirate’s city-centre station, Sharjah University City, doesn’t join the network until March 2027, so for now, Al Dhaid is your only rail gateway into Sharjah, promising a change of pace from bustling city life. Stay: Moon Retreat by Sharjah Collection (sharjahcollection.ae), tucked among the dunes near Mleiha, offers an otherworldly glamping experience to immerse you in the incredible landscape. Choose from ten domes or six private tents, each with its own terrace, a self-catering barbecue set-up, and a temperature-controlled private pool. It’s glamping in the true sense: private, unplugged, and authentic – with camels known to wander near the entrance and mountain views that turn gold at sunrise and sunset. It reopens from October 1, and rates this season start from Dhs1,757 per night. Do: Mleiha is the region’s centrepiece: a UNESCO-recognised Palaeolandscape holding more than 210,000 years of human history. Start at Mleiha Archaeological Centre, then from there a guided 4WD Archaeology Tour heads out to Faya Cave, the Palaeolithic rock shelter where the area’s earliest finds were unearthed. Animal lovers will also find themselves conveniently placed to tick Sharjah Safari off their UAE bucket list, reachable within a 15-minute drive from the station and reopening in September. Here, more than 120 species of animals await discovery, with birds, reptiles and mammals such as lions, elephants, giraffes and rhinos among the residents. Don’t miss: Al Dhaid’s souqs make for an easy pairing. Souq Al Jubail is the working heart of the town: a sprawling fresh produce market with dedicated fruit, vegetable, meat and fish sections. A short distance away, Souq Sharia’t Al Dhaid is the newer arrival, a heritage market with a dedicated camel race track alongside it, its shops and cafés built around traditional crafts and local products.

12 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

AL HILAL CITY, FUJAIRAH

Active since the passenger network’s introductory launch on June 30, Al Hilal City station connects the capital to the UAE’s east coast in just 1 hour 45 minutes. Swap the skyscrapers for the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, and you’re in an entirely different UAE. Stay: Palace Beach Resort Fujairah (addresshotels.com), a palatial beachfront five-star set right on Fujairah’s Corniche Road, is just 10 minutes away. The 150 rooms and suites look out over city, pool or ocean views, while facilities include a private beach, an ocean-view pool with cabana-covered daybeds, and The Spa by Palace, with treatments inspired by Arabesque tradition and a private rooftop terrace to unwind afterwards. One-night stays start from Dhs392. Do: This coastline is made for the water. Snorkel or dive off Snoopy Island, one of the UAE’s best-known reef sites just off Al Aqah, or book a fishing or watersports excursion if you’re keen to go with a local guide. The Dibba Bay Oyster Farm makes for an unusual add-on if you’d rather stay closer to shore. Inland, the Hajar Mountains offer proper hiking with sea views, while for heritage, Al Bidya Mosque and Fujairah Fort and Museum are within easy reach. Don’t miss: Extend your trip and head a little further down the coast to Kabla, where several landmark projects are set to open later this year. From December, expect to check out Al Hiyar Lake and Rest Area, the striking Shell Theatre (entered via an underwater corridor), the Kalba Heritage Museum, a living space for traditional arts and crafts, and Above The Clouds, a two-storey venue 850 metres up on Al Deem mountain with a restaurant, viewing platforms and a children’s play area.

5 FUN FACTS ABOUT ETIHAD RAIL 01 Passenger trains can travel up to 200 km/h. 02 When complete, the full network spans approximately 900 km, and will connect all seven emirates from Ghuweifat on the Saudi border to Fujairah on the east coast. 03 Hafeet Rail, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Oman rail is also set to expand train journeys between the UAE and Oman, targeting a 2030 launch. 04 A separate high-speed line is planned to eventually cut the Abu Dhabi–Dubai journey to just 30 minutes at speeds up to 350 km/h. 05 It required 593 bridges and crossings and nine tunnels totalling 6.5 km to build.

Fujairah

WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 13

YO U R E S S E N T I A L G U I D E TO A L N O O R I S L A N D

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO

AL NOOR ISLAND A green escape in Sharjah filled with butterflies, art and plenty more to explore WORDS: SAMMI BARNARD

Find the art

ooking for a different day out? Al Noor Island in Sharjah is a peaceful spot in the middle of Khalid Lagoon, filled with gardens, art installations, a Butterfly House and plenty of space to slow down. Whether you want to explore with the family, grab a coffee, discover some art or simply take a walk surrounded by nature, there is plenty to see and do.

Art is everywhere on Al Noor Island. Look out for sculptures and installations dotted among the gardens, making the walk a little more interesting as you explore.

Get creative

EXPLORE Meet the butterflies One of the island’s biggest highlights is its Butterfly House, home to more than 20 species of exotic butterflies. Step inside and see the colourful creatures up close while learning about their life cycle. The Butterfly House is open daily from 9am to 6pm. 14 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

Take a self-guided walk Explore the island at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Wander through the gardens, look out for birds along the shoreline and discover the island’s different spaces and attractions. The self-guided island visit is available from 9am to 11pm on weekdays and until midnight on weekends.

The Art in Nature experience lets you take inspiration from the island’s plants and surroundings before creating your own artwork. You’ll be given the materials you need to paint, with the option to take your creation home.

See the island after dark Come back in the evening to see Al Noor Island lit up. The night illuminations bring the gardens and pathways to life and make for a completely different experience.

YO U R E S S E N T I A L G U I D E TO A L N O O R I S L A N D

FOR LITTLE EXPLORERS Summer Programme There is still time to join Al Noor Island’s Explore, Create and Grow Summer Programme, but September is your last chance. Running until 30 September, the weekend programme is designed for children and includes butterfly discovery, arts and crafts, planting activities and other nature-inspired experiences. The programme runs on Saturdays and Sundays from 5pm to 7pm, with activities designed to encourage creativity and curiosity. The package is Dhs99 per child and includes the activities and take-home creations.

Birthday fun Planning a birthday party? Al Noor Island also offers a birthday package centred around the Butterfly House. The experience can be customised with different activities, making it an option for little ones who love nature and getting creative.

EAT AND UNWIND Noor Café Need a break from exploring? Stop at Noor Café for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea or an evening bite. It’s a relaxed place to sit in the shade and enjoy something to eat or drink while surrounded by the island’s greenery.

By the Bay For something a little more special, book By the Bay and dine beside the water with views across Sharjah’s skyline. The experience can also include island entry, a guided tour and a night sky watch session, subject to weather conditions.

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE

There are a few ways to visit Al Noor Island, depending on how much you want to do

Self-guided tour

Explorer pass

Explore the island at your own pace. From Dhs35 for adults and Dhs20 for children aged three to 12.

Includes island entry, the Butterfly House, a self-guided island tour, map and explorer kit. Dhs75 per person.

Standard pass Includes island entry and a Butterfly House experience with an educator. Dhs50 for adults and Dhs30 for children.

Summer savings pass September is also the final month to make the most of the Summer Savings Pass, which gives you

20% off selected Al Noor Island experiences until 30 September. Options include the Standard Pass, Explorer Pass and By the Bay.

GOOD TO KNOW

Where: Al Noor Island, Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah Open: 9am to 11pm on weekdays, until midnight on weekends. Butterfly House: 9am to 6pm daily. Best for: Families, nature lovers, art fans and anyone looking for a quieter day out. DON’T MISS: If you’re visiting with kids, make the most of September before the Summer Programme finishes on 30 September. For a more relaxed visit, arrive later in the afternoon and stay into the evening to see the island illuminated.

WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 15

WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN

Whether it’s high-octane outdoor thrills or epic indoor fun, Ajman’s got something for all ages. Think water parks, indoor play zones, horse riding and heritage sites, all promising unmissable family moments

16 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

A J M A N FA M I LY F U N

Happy Fun A firm favourite with Ajman families, Happy Fun runs two branches in the emirate: one at Al Jerf Industrial 1 and another inside Rashidiya Park, combining indoor trampoline and inflatable zones with splash play areas, zip lines, electric cars and a café for parents. Entry is charged per activity area rather than a single park-wide ticket, making it an affordable day out if you’re just looking to access one or two experiences. happyfun.ae

Happy Fun

Ajman Water Park

Ajman Water Park Located near Ajman Clock Tower in Al Rashidiya 1, the recently opened Ajman Water Park features slides, splash zones, pool areas and dedicated kids’ splash areas – plus for those looking to stay dry, there’s a hanging bridge and zipline. Non-swimming parents can supervise from the sidelines with a non-swimmer ticket, and the Family Package bundles in two combo meals for an easier day out. Tickets are Dhs79 per person (adults and children), or Dhs370 for the family bundle of two adult and two child tickets with combo meals included. ajmanwaterpark.com WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 17

A J M A N FA M I LY F U N

Sprinkles Play Tucked inside Al Murad Mall, Sprinkles is Ajman’s first dedicated trampoline park, inviting children and the young-at-heart to bounce around to their heart’s content. But it’s not just about trampolines, Sprinkles also features an eyepopping arcade that is home to more than 40 games, including VR simulators, bumper cars, interactive bowling and a soft play zone for younger children, so there’s something to entertain all ages. Pricing is tiered by attraction, with rides from Dhs10 and play areas priced from Dhs20. sprinklesplay.com

Sprinkles Play

My Play Zone

18 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

My Play Zone is a colourful indoor playground inside Safeer Mall aimed squarely at younger children, with sportsstyle games, arcade activities and soft play designed to keep kids active on a mall visit. It’s a low-key, budget-friendly stop rather than a destination in its own right: ideal for combining with a wider mall day. Dhs50 gets you 20 minutes of wall climbing fun and a soft play day pass, with reduced rates mid-week and select rides for just one Dirham on Tuesdays. @my_playzone

Hassa Buweid Castle For families wanting a slice of heritage alongside the theme parks, this hilltop watchtower in Ajman’s Al Manama enclave was built in 1976 by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi and takes its name, meaning “white stones”, from the pale, gravelly hill it sits on. A stone stairway leads up to the square, two-roomed tower, from where views stretch out over the surrounding plains. It’s a quieter, more contemplative stop than the emirate’s play zones, and a good way to introduce children to Ajman’s pre-oil history. It’s free to visit.

Ajman Equestrian Club

Hassa Buweid Castle< Ajman

Home to more than 100 Arabian horses and located close to City Centre Ajman, this is one of the region’s most established riding schools, with instructors offering both group and private lessons across multiple languages. Beginners can start with introductory sessions, while more experienced riders can progress to show jumping and dressage. Whether your little ones are budding jockeys or simply looking to experience the majestic beauty of horse riding, it’s a wonderful way to spend a morning as a family. @ajmanequestrianclub

Al Jurf Park One of Ajman’s best-loved green spaces, Al Jurf Family Park spans a generous 43,000 sqm in the Al Jurf area and is entirely free to enter, making it a top affordable spot for the winter months. Expect shaded playgrounds, a small amusement zone with a handful of paid rides, sports courts for volleyball, basketball and tennis, barbecue pits, walking and jogging tracks, and food kiosks. It’s busiest in the evenings, when families can snag a spot for sunset picnics and play. WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 19

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PA G E 23

Life’s a beach

We’re ﬁrst in line at Bar Du Port Beach’s reopening WE TASTE-TEST THE NEW CHEF-INSPIRED MENU AT KARMA KAFÉ p22 THE DISH YOU MUST ORDER AT RED ROCK BBQ p24

EAT // REVIEW

KARMA KAFÉ BY BUDDHA-BAR Same address, new kitchen energy: RAK’s Buddha-Bar outpost gets a menu worth crossing the bridge for WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

arma Kafé isn’t new to Ras Al Khaimah, and it isn’t trying to pretend otherwise. The dragon at the entrance has been welcoming guests into Al Marjan Island’s most theatrical dining room for a while, and the sunsetover-the-Gulf view from the terrace hasn’t needed any improving. What has changed is the kitchen: the original menu stays fully intact – a relief for the devoted – but a new, shorter chef ’s menu has arrived alongside it to lift the experience further.

The food We started with the Chinese Chicken Salad and Prawn Tempura, both pulled from the standing menu and both doing exactly the job an opener should: sharp, clean, appetite-building. The salad is the surprise of the two – a dressing that coats the cabbage just enough to sharpen its crunch, with grilled chicken adding texture rather than bulk. The Dim-Sum Basket, two each of chicken shumai, prawn har gow, beef and sweet potato, is the sharing plate to order if you can’t decide, which on a menu this size is most people. Be quick: they don’t last. The sushi and nigiri platter did the showing off, arriving under a cloud of dry

ice that briefly stopped the table’s conversation – which at Karma Kafé is presumably the point. This is where the new menu earns its keep. The Flambé Nigiri Seabass and Flambé Nigiri Salmon taste even better than they photograph, lime zest and spicy mayo carrying the salmon, truffle mayo and sesame oil keeping the seabass restrained. The real standouts are the Soy-Ginger Chilli Prawns – real bite, sticky and moreish – and the Beef Short Ribs, slow-cooked to the point of barely needing a knife. Both go straight on the return-order list. The Wok-Stirred Vegetable Soba Noodles do what a vegetable dish on a meat-heavy table needs to: earn its place rather than pad the order. Bok choy and shiitake keep it savoury, not virtuous.

The vibe The room still does what it’s always done well: rich textures, low ambient lighting and that dragon motif running through the design set the scene before a single dish arrives, and the terrace, with the sea rolling out beyond it, turns dinner into an evening that drifts naturally into drinks. BuddhaBar’s cocktail list, part classics and part invention, keeps that balance going. 22 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

The service Confident and well-paced, with a team that clearly knows the new menu rather than just reciting it – the chicken salad recommendation a case in point. Dishes arrived with enough spacing to finish one before the next landed, which matters when there are this many small plates on the table.

What’s on the bill From the new menu: Dim-Sum Basket (Dhs70), Flambé Nigiri Seabass (Dhs70), Flambé Nigiri Salmon (Dhs70), Soy-Ginger Chilli Prawns (Dhs135), Beef Short Ribs (Dhs159), Wok-Stirred Vegetable Soba Noodles (Dhs50). WHAT’S ON VERDICT

The setting was never the problem at Karma Kafé. Now the kitchen is giving regulars – particularly through those short ribs and prawns – another reason to go back, not just stay for the view. Location: Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah Contact: 07 971 7 209 0099 @karmakaferak

EAT // REVIEW

BAR DU PORT BEACH

RAK’s newest beach club is still finding its rhythm post-reopening, but the kitchen is already operating like it never closed WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

DP Beach had reopened for the season the day before we visited, which meant the pool was still out of action – workers busily remodelling ahead of what is hoped to be a busy end to the year. And when you’re visiting a beach club, you’d be forgiven for thinking this could sink an experience, but in truth it didn’t matter, because the parts that were working were working well enough to make the pool feel almost beside the point.

The food We started with the Levantine Salad and it’s worth leading with: market greens, radish, tomato and pomegranate molasses, finished with crispy filo for crunch. Fresh, sharp, beautifully dressed – it’s a salad that makes you reconsider ordering a salad at any other beach club ever again. Ok, that might be slight hyperbole here, but it is delicious. The Yellowfin Tuna, dressed simply in

calamansi and preserved lemon, kept the same clean, confident register: no need to dress up a good piece of fish. Again, the restraint in how the ingredients are handled serves the dish extremely well. The Harissa Prawns brought the slightest touch of heat, lemon thyme sauce and pine nuts giving the harissa oil something to sit against rather than just burning through the plate. The Seafood Paella – built to share – was the centrepiece. Spanish rice carrying a proper saffron bisque richness, balanced out perfectly with a squeeze of lime over the top. Plus, the paella is generous with its seafood rather than stingy with rice padding it out. The seafood is removed from the shells and mixed into the dish tableside before being served. Every mouthful carrying a different profile through the seafood, the chorizo and of course that richly deep bisque. A side of broccolini with thinly sliced olives and dressed simply in oil earns its place.

The vibe This is where BDP earns its keep. The styling leans into the kind of boho chill-out look that makes you want to slow down before the first drink arrives. The cuisine is influenced by the French Riviera, but you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re on a Greek island. In either case, it’s relaxed, it’s chic, it’s where to be seen. And for those looking for a place to be when in Hayat Island, the food more than holds its own against the interior styling.

The service Fine, if not yet fully dialled in – given it was day two into the reopening, and is the kind of thing that tends to sharpen itself out within a few weeks once the team settles back into rhythm.

What’s on the bill Levantine Salad (Dhs65), Yellowfin Tuna (Dhs70), Harissa Prawns (Dhs70), Seafood Paella (Dhs390, to share), Broccolini (Dhs40). WHAT’S ON VERDICT

After opening to much fan-fare at the start of the year, Bar Du Port Beach is clearly not resting on its laurels as it continues its crowd-pleasing reputation.

Location: Hayat Island, Mina, Ras Al Khaimah Contact: 056 971 56 697 7772 @bdpbeachrak WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 23

CONSUME // INSIDE SCOOP

PEAK FLAVOUR Red Rock BBQ elevates dining to new heights on Jebel Jais, bringing openfire dining to a breathtaking setting 2000 metres above sea level. Here, its executive chef Iker Zapata Errasti tells us why it’s the restaurant you won’t want to miss this season WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN

lready home to the UAE’s highest restaurant, Jebel Jais debuted a new open-fire dining concept, Red Rock, in 2025. Conceived as a premium casual open-air BBQ concept, it brings a new dimension of culinary flair to mountain-top dining, bringing people together for moreish cuisine and quality connection. Ahead of its return this October, chef Iker Zapata Errasti, the restaurant’s executive chef, tells us more. What makes Red Rock BBQ special? It’s truly a unique place: its harmony with nature, its location, the breathtaking views, and a culinary experience built entirely around natural ingredients and unique flavours and textures. The setting is outstanding; how does that impact how you create your menu? The menu is a direct response to its environment. Surrounded by cold, arid, rocky mountains at 2,000 meters above sea level, the landscape is 24 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

powerful, austere, and uncompromising. This intensity is translated into a cuisine defined by depth, precision, and respect for the product. The dishes are bold and pure, shaped by the climate, the altitude, and the raw beauty of the land, and of course, the fire. This is what brings us together to enjoy a really great meal. What surprises people most about open-fire cooking? This concept has fascinated me since the very beginning of my career. It creates a deeper connection between people and the food they are about to eat, connecting them to the cuisine, to the chefs, and to the experience itself. It allows guests to feel fully immersed, as if they are truly part of the journey rather than just observers of it.

What is the one dish everyone should try on the menu? It’s really hard to choose just one, but I think the Smoked Brisket is the dish that represents us best. What are three ingredients you couldn’t be without? Great meat, great potatoes and great homemade rub. Red Rock BBQ reopens on October 14. Visit @redrockrak

ART | THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC

PA G E 26

The ground beneath us Places and stories that have shaped this country of ours WHATSON.AE | MONTH 2022 25

CULTURE // CULTURAL SITES

THE STORIES UNDER OUR FEET

From a 210,000-year-old UNESCO site to a fort that saw off the British navy, 15 heritage sites across the emirates worth building a weekend around WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

Al Faya, Sharjah

or most of us, this is simply home – the road to work, the weekend drive, the view out of the window. But scratch the surface and the Northern Emirates hold one of the deepest, longest human stories anywhere in the country: settlements older than almost anywhere else on Earth, ports that once traded with Rome and China, and villages left exactly as they were when the pearl trade ended. Getting to know these 15 sites isn’t about ticking off a tourist trail. It’s about understanding the ground beneath the malls and the motorways a little better – and taking some pride in it.

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FUJAIRAH Al Bidyah Mosque Believed to date from the 15th to 17th century, Al Bidyah is generally regarded as the UAE’s oldest surviving mosque. Built entirely from mud brick between Al Dibba and Khor Fakkan, it covers roughly 53 square metres, topped with four squat domes held up by a single central pillar. Still a working mosque, so time your visit outside prayer hours. Where: Al Bidyah When: Daily, 8am-6.30pm Info: tourism.fujairah.ae

Fujairah Fort & Heritage Village

Al Bidyah Mosque

Dibba Fort

Fujairah Fort & Heritage Village The UAE’s oldest and largest fort, built in the 16th century and home to the ruling Al Sharqi family for generations. It survived Wahhabi occupation and a 1925 British bombardment before restoration finished in 2000. The adjoining Heritage Village recreates pre-oil daily life – falaj irrigation, a working souq – for an easy pairing. Where: Fujairah City When: Daily, late afternoon best Info: tourism.fujairah.ae

Dibba Al-Fujairah Necropolis Dibba’s natural harbour made it a trading post for over a millennium, and its collective tombs prove it. Graves here span the Iron Age through the Hellenistic-Roman era, with goods including Greek pottery, Roman glass and imported coins – evidence this coast traded with the Mediterranean long before anyone had heard of the Gulf. Where: Dibba Al-Fujairah When: Best visited with a guide Info: tourism.fujairah.ae WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 27

CULTURE // CULTURAL SITES Mleiha Archaeological Centre

SHARJAH

Ten minutes on, Mleiha rounds out the trio with forts, dwellings and burial structures across the Bronze, Iron and pre-Islamic ages, built around a proper visitor centre with guided routes. Also the most fun of the three – hiking, trekking and desert safaris through terrain most Dubai residents never see. Where: Mleiha, Sharjah When: Sun–Wed 9am–7pm; Thu–Sat 9am–9pm Info: mleihanationalpark.com

Al Faya The headline act. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2025 – only the UAE’s second, after Al Ain – Al Faya holds an almost unbroken record stretching back 210,000 years, among the oldest known sites of human habitation outside Africa. No visitor centre yet – that’s rather the point. Where: Near Al Madam When: Check visitsharjah.com Info: visitsharjah.com

Wadi Al Helo

Jebel Buhais

Shark Island, Khorfakkan

A short drive from Al Faya, Buhais holds one of the largest prehistoric burial grounds in southeast Arabia, spanning the Neolithic through pre-Islamic periods, some tombs dating to the 5th millennium BC. Nomadic herders are thought to have returned here generation after generation specifically to bury their dead. The adjoining Geology Park adds trails through the rock formations. Where: Central Sharjah When: Hours vary – check ahead Info: visitsharjah.com

Known locally as Sira Khorfakkan, this small island was recently made a protected archaeological reserve after surveys found two settlement periods spanning the 13th to 19th centuries, plus imported Chinese porcelain. Its strategic command of the shipping lanes into the Sea of Oman means it has carried a military presence more recently, so access can be restricted – check before planning a visit. Where: Off Khorfakkan When: Access restricted – check saa.shj.ae Info: saa.shj.ae

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On Sharjah’s east coast near Kalba, “sweet valley” proves the emirate’s history isn’t confined to its central desert. Settlement here goes back at least 10,000 years, with Bronze Age copper smelting sites and a restored 19th-century watchtower anchoring the main hike. No 4x4 needed – watch for Arabian oryx along the way. Where: Near Kalba When: Open access; go early Info: visitsharjah.com

RAS AL KHAIMAH

Khatt and Seih Al Harf

Shimal Tombs, Ras Al Khaimah

Julfar and Kush Before there was a Ras Al Khaimah, there was Julfar – a medieval Islamic port significant enough to appear in Chinese, Persian and European trade records, dealing in pearls, textiles and spices between the 14th and 17th centuries. Its predecessor, Kush, dates to Al Dhaya, Ras Al Khaimah the 5th century and is one of the largest archaeological tells in the country. Where: North of RAK City, near Shimal When: Open site, though certain parts are closed to preserve the space. Info: rakheritage.rak.ae

Khatt and Seih Al Harf Two connected sites holding dense concentrations of prehistoric burials. Khatt’s beehive-shaped tombs date back more than 5,000 years, while Seih Al Harf ’s Wadi Suq graves – communal, built for dozens at once – date to 1600–1300 BCE and were significant enough to briefly halt a major road project. Khatt is also known for its hot springs. Where: Southeast of RAK City When: Open access Info: rakheritage.rak.ae

Al Jazirah Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah

Dhayah Fort The only hilltop fort still standing in the UAE, above the palm gardens of Rams. Built over Late Bronze Age fortifications, it’s famous for December 1819: the last stand of RAK’s defenders against a British naval expedition, a siege that shaped the treaty leading to today’s UAE. The climb up 200-odd steps earns the view. Where: North of Rams When: Daily 9am-5pm (closed Fri-Sat); free Info: rakheritage.rak.ae

Al Jazirah Al Hamra One of the last intact traditional pearling villages left in the Gulf. Founded by the Za’ab tribe, it grew into a genuine trading hub before the pearl trade’s collapse and the pull of Abu Dhabi’s post-oil economy emptied it out between 1968 and 1971. Coral-stone houses and mosques remain largely as they were left. Where: Al Jazirah Al Hamra When: Open access; best in daylight Info: rakheritage.rak.ae

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CULTURE // CULTURAL SITES UMM AL QUWAIN

Ed-Dur The Northern Emirates’ most significant pre-Islamic site rarely gets its due. Occupied from roughly 300 BC to 300 AD, Ed-Dur is one of the largest sites of its period in the UAE, with excavated tombs and trade links stretching as far as Rome – proof this coastline traded internationally long before Dubai’s ports existed. Where: Near Umm Al Quwain When: Open site, though certain parts are closed to preserve the space. Some artifacts available at Umm Al Quwain National Museum. Info: UAQ Department of Tourism

AJMAN Ajman Museum (Ajman Fort)

DUBAI Saruq Al Hadid Spotted from the air by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum over the Al Marmoom desert, this site has yielded more than 3,000 years of metalworking evidence, with finds linking the area to Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt. Most are now on display at Al Shindagha Museum. Where: Al Shindagha Museum When: Daily, 10am-8pm Info: visitdubai.com 30 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

Built in the 18th century as the ruling family’s residence and later police headquarters, this coralstone fort became a museum in 1981 – one of the UAE’s first heritage conversions. Modest by comparison with grander forts elsewhere: watchtowers, a wind-tower room, exhibits on pearl diving and Bedouin life. Where: Al Bustan, Ajman When: Check ajman.ae Info: ajman.ae

SPORT | FITNESS | WELLBEING

PA G E 32

Best foot forward

The events for you to smash your PBs WATCH YOUR MENTAL TO-DO LIST DISAPPEAR AT THIS RAK-BASED SPA p34

WHATSON.AE | OCTOBER 2022 31

ACTIVE // RUN CALENDAR

RUN THE NORTH: YOUR AUTUMN RACE CALENDAR As the mercury finally drops, the Northern Emirates’ running scene wakes up. From a heritage night race in Sharjah’s Fili to a splashand-dash on Al Hamriyah’s coastline, here’s what’s on the calendar and how to get a bib WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

Run Fujairah

ooler mornings mean one thing across the Northern Emirates: race season is back with plenty of events lined up across September to November, including a coastal aquathlon and a neon-lit night run. Whether you’re chasing a PB, entering your first 5km, or just want the kids out before sunset, here’s what’s on and what to expect.

01 SHARJAH AQUATHLON The season opener takes place on the coast at Al Hamriyah, combining a swim leg with a run for anyone who fancies two disciplines in one morning rather than a full triathlon. Aquathlons draw a slightly different crowd to standard road races – more wetsuits, fewer pram-pushers – but it’s beginner-friendly if you’re a confident open-water swimmer. Early bird pricing is available, so register sooner rather than later. Sharjah Aquathlon | 13 September 2026 | 6:15am (approx, based on previous editions) | Al Hamriyah, Sharjah | Cost: Dhs135 | Contact: 052 907 7769

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04 HISN FILI RUN

02 RUN AJMAN Ajman’s flagship community race returns, organised by the Department of Tourism Development with Endurance Sports Services. The course runs along the private, traffic-free roads of Ajman’s Safa Walk, making it a relaxed one for families – there’s a 1km kids’ dash alongside 2.5km, 5km and 10km options for the grown-ups. More than 130 category winners are recognised across age groups, Emirati and open divisions, so there’s a decent shot at a podium even if you’re not chasing a PB. Run Ajman | 10 October 2026 | Start time: 6:10pm | Ajman Safa Walk | Cost: Junior 1km, age 3 to 12 years old: Dhs60; 2.5km, age 13 to 15 years old: Dhs75; Adults: Dhs99 | Contact: 052 907 7769.

A genuine change of scenery. Fili, the historic area east of Al Dhaid that’s recently had major restoration work on its fort and heritage souq, hosts a run that trades the usual waterfront or business-park backdrop for something with real history behind it. It’s listed as a new date for this edition, so double-check the calendar if you ran it previously. If you’ve been meaning to explore Fili beyond a weekend souq visit, this is a decent excuse to do it on foot, early, before the crowds. Hisn Fili Run | 24 October 2026 | Start time: 5:30pm | Fili, Sharjah | Cost: Ages 0 to 12: Dhs63; Adults: Dhs84 | Contact: 052 907 7769

05 RUN FUJAIRAH

03 AJMAN NEON RUN If Run Ajman is the family-friendly daytime option, the Neon Run is its after-dark sibling. Also organised by Ajman’s tourism department with Endurance Sports Services, it’s a 4.3km evening race with glow-in-the-dark wearables handed out to participants – less serious PB attempt, more excuse to run through a city lit up like a rave. There’s also a 1.5km option with a stroller category, a nice touch for parents who don’t want to leave anyone behind. Ajman Neon Run | 14 November 2026 | Start time: 8pm | Ajman | Cost: Ages 0 to 10 years old: Dhs49; Adults: Dhs79; 1.5km baby in stroller+adult: Dhs79 | Contact: 052 907 7769.

Rounding off the calendar is Fujairah’s contribution, timed for the cooler second week of November. Distance details are still coming through, but expect a well-marshalled route, timing chips and the usual medal-andphoto package. Fujairah’s races make good use of the emirate’s mountain and coastal scenery, so if you’ve only run in Dubai or Sharjah, it’s worth the drive. Run Fujairah | 8 November 2026 | Start time: 6:40am | Fujairah | Cost: Ages 0 to 12: Dhs55; Adults: Dhs70 | Contact: 052 907 7769. WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 33

ACTIVE // SPA REVIEW

TRIED & TESTED

Misule Spa & Salon @Rixos Bab Al Bahr

A Turkish hammam done the old way, inside one of Ras Al Khaimah’s biggest spas WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

arjan Island isn’t somewhere you associate with slowing down. It’s cranes and construction and a coastline still working out what it wants to be. Misule Spa & Salon doesn’t try to fight that – it just shuts the door on it. Inside, everything narrows to stone, steam and the low echo of a domed ceiling, and within about 10 minutes I’d stopped thinking about my to-do list entirely.

The treatment I’d booked the Turkish hammam, part of bathing culture in this region for close to a thousand years – Ottoman in origin,

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Another shower, then the massage – full body, no clockwatching energy to it, deep enough in the shoulders to remind you how much you’d been carrying without noticing. By the end I wasn’t just relaxed, I was properly reset. Job. Done.

The facilities The hammam room itself is the reason to come – tiled, domed, warm underfoot, built with enough scale that it never feels like you’re queuing for your turn. Avitane runs separate spas for men and women, each with its own private pool, and each pitched as the largest of its kind in Ras Al Khaimah. Nothing about the design overreaches. It leans on classic hammam materials – stone, tile, arched ceilings – rather than modernising its way into something flashier, and it’s better for it.

The experience built on older Roman and Byzantine bathhouse traditions, and designed around one idea: heat opens the body up, then water and touch do the rest. It’s less indulgence than it sounds; historically it was as much social ritual as hygiene, and something of that shared, unhurried quality remains, even solo. The sequence is deliberate rather than rushed: a shower, then straight into the sauna to get the body properly warm, followed by the steam room to soften everything further – muscles, skin, the tension of getting there in the first place. By the time I’m out of the steam, I’ve stopped thinking altogether. Another shower resets things before the main event: a full-body scrub, mine done with a coconutinfused mix, worked over with enough pressure to actually shift the dead skin. A face mask goes on next, and this is where the pace drops further. You’re left to sit with it under the dome, the heat still working on you, nothing to do but wait it out. It’s the part of a hammam that’s easy to rush in lesser versions, and Misule clearly understands if shouldn’t be.

What stood out wasn’t any single part of the treatment, it was the order of it. Heat, steam, scrub, stillness, massage – each stage does a specific job, and by the last shower your body has been through a process, not just a series of nice things happening to it. The pace never once feels dictated by a schedule. I left lighter and in no rush to get back in the car. WHAT’S ON VERDICT

A proper, unhurried Turkish hammam that respects the ritual rather than trimming it for tourists. The scrub and the massage are strong on their own, but it’s the full sequence – and the size of the space it happens in – that makes the investment worth it.

Where: Misule Spa & Salon, Rixos Bab Al Bahr, Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah When: Daily, hours vary by treatment – check ahead Cost: Hammam and massage Dhs750 Contact: rixosbabalbahr.com

DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS

PA G E 36

Keep it short 30 international destinations. All a 6-hours-or-less ﬂight away. Your next trip awaits. THE FAMILY STAYCATION THAT ENSURES EVERYONE LEAVES HAPPY p42

TRAVEL // SHORT FLIGHTS

SHORT AND SWEET 30 BRILLIANT GETAWAYS FROM THE UAE, ALL WITHIN A SIX-HOUR FLIGHT WORDS: YI-HWA HANNA

he suitcases are unpacked, the out-of-office is off, and September has arrived with a bump. The best cure for the post-holiday blues? Getting the next trip in the diary – and with Dubai International (DXB) crowned the world’s busiest airport for international passengers in 2025, welcoming a record 95.2 million travellers, the options on our doorstep are endless. With cooler months and a run of public holidays ahead, these quick-flight escapes are proof you don’t need a long-haul odyssey for a total change of scene. Bookmark this lot – your next adventure is closer than you think.

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TRAVEL // SHORT FLIGHTS

Armenia Est. travel time: 4.5h

Yerevan stands out for its vibrant, highly walkable centre, where an active outdoor café culture lines the streets alongside the striking Cascade complex. It’s a highly scenic and exceptionally easy destination to navigate for first-time visitors. Just beyond Armenia’s capital city, you’ll also find incredibly well-preserved ancient landmarks that make for easy day trips, including the iconic first-century pagan Temple of Garni and the famous rock-cut Geghard Monastery. flydubai offers direct flights to Yerevan from Dubai, and Air Arabia runs direct flights there from Sharjah.

Austria Est. travel time: 6h

Famous for its grand imperial palaces and historic classical music heritage, Vienna offers exceptional museums and a vibrant café culture. Beyond the capital, the country features dramatic alpine landscapes, pristine lakes and world-class skiing. Emirates and Etihad Airways both offer direct flights to the country.

Azerbaijan Est. travel time: 3-3.5h

Baku has a striking mix of modern architecture and historic heritage, best seen in the city’s futuristic Flame Towers and UNESCO-listed Old City. Nearby, you’ll find unique mud volcanoes in Gobustan, and the perpetual natural fire of Yanar Dag. Air Arabia and flydubai both offer direct flights there from Sharjah and Dubai.

Armenia Yerevan

Bahrain Est. travel time: 1h 20m

This island nation blends rich history with a modern lifestyle, featuring the ancient UNESCO-listed Bahrain Fort, a vibrant culinary scene in places like the Block 338 district, and a famous pearl-diving heritage. Emirates, flydubai, Gulf Air and Air Arabia all offer direct flights to the country from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Bhutan Est. travel time: 4.5h

Known for its dramatic mountain scenery, fortressmonasteries and unique carbon-negative status, this kingdom offers a peaceful escape. Visitors can hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery and explore Paro’s traditional streets. Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air both offer direct flights there from Dubai.

Bosnia & Herzegovina Est. travel time: 6h

Tiger’s Nest monastery, Bhutan

This scenic destination has a beautiful mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian history, seen in Sarajevo’s old bazaar, Baščaršija, and the historic Latin Bridge. Beyond the capital, you can also explore stunning waterfalls, green valleys and old stone towns. flydubai has direct flights to Sarajevo. WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 37

TRAVEL // SHORT FLIGHTS

Croatia Est. travel time: 6h

This Adriatic destination has a stunning sun-drenched coastline, more than a thousand islands, and a deep historical heritage. The dramatic medieval walled city of Dubrovnik, the beautifullypreserved Roman ruins of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, and the turquoise lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park are key attractions. This highly diverse country transitions effortlessly from peaceful, pine-fringed beaches to historical exploration. flydubai offers direct flights to Zagreb from Dubai, while other seasonal flight routes often open up to Dubrovnik.

Cyprus Est. travel time: 4h 15m

This Mediterranean island is rich in classical mythology, sandy beaches and pine-clad mountains. Key sites include the ancient tombs of Paphos, the Roman ruins of Kourion, and traditional stone villages in the Troodos foothills. Both Emirates and Cyprus Airways operate direct flights to the country.

Plitvice Lakes National Park waterfalls, Croatia

Ethiopia Est. travel time: 4h 15m

Georgia

This East African nation boasts diverse landscapes, from the jagged Simien Mountains to the volcanic Danakil Depression. Key attractions include the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, ancient ruins in Aksum, and traditional coffee ceremonies. Emirates, flydubai, Ethiopian Airlines and Air Arabia fly there direct.

Georgia Est. travel time: 3.5-4.5h

Ancient tombs of Paphos, Cyprus

Egypt

Giza Pyramids, Egypt

Est. travel time: 3.5-4h

Home to the famous Giza Pyramids and the treasure-filled Grand Egyptian Museum, this country is a popular bucket list destination. Sought-after activities include exploring Cairo’s historic quarters, cruising the Nile, and diving the Red Sea reefs. Emirates, EgyptAir, flydubai, Air Arabia and Nile Air all operate direct flights there. 38 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

This Caucasus nation borders the Black Sea, drawing in visitors with the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi, the dramatic Caucasus Mountains, and ancient vineyards. Key sites include the Narikala Fortress, Stepantsminda mountain, and the cave city of Vardzia. Air Arabia and flydubai fly there direct.

Greece Est. travel time: 5-5.5h

There is a distinct magic to Greece, where sun-bleached ruins meet an endless, deep blue Aegean. You find yourself wandering between the ancient Acropolis in Athens, Delphi’s mountain mysteries, and the gorgeous caldera of Santorini. Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia and Aegean Airlines all fly direct.

India Est. travel time: 3-4h

India has a wide variety of destinations to offer, from the high-altitude peaks of the Himalayas to the chaotic energy of Mumbai, the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, and the historic monuments of Delhi, with centuries-old temples, local spice markets and more. Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air India and IndiGo fly direct.

Jordan

Santorini, Greece

Est. travel time: 3-4h

A visit to Jordan drops you into a movieworthy part of the region, where desert landscapes meet incredible history. Float in the hyper-saline Dead Sea, trek through Petra’s sandstone canyons, and camp under the stars in Wadi Rum. Emirates, flydubai, Etihad, Air Arabia and Royal Jordanian all operate direct flights.

Kazakhstan Est. travel time: 4-5h

This too-often slept-on hidden gem has futuristic architecture in Astana, a leafy, European feel in Almaty, and seemingly endless wild steppes. Hike the Charyn Canyon, visit the alpine lakes, and spend a night in a yurt if you can. Air Astana, flydubai, Air Arabia and FlyArystan all operate direct flights from the UAE.

Kenya Est. travel time: 5-5.5h

Hop straight into a safari from bustling Nairobi’s national park, where you can also explore the buzzing arts scene. A hop onwards will take you to the beaches of Lamu or the wilds of the Maasai Mara and the rugged Rift Valley. Emirates, flydubai, Kenya Airways, Etihad and Air Arabia all fly there directly from the UAE.

Kuwait Est. travel time: 1h 45m-2h

Maasai Mara, Kenya

Land in Kuwait City and head straight to Souq Al Mubarakiya to get lost in the spice-scented alleyways and grab some incredible local food. Take a stroll along the Gulf Road, snap a photo of the iconic Kuwait Towers, and check out the architectural marvel that is the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre. If you have the time, take a short day ferry over to Failaka Island to wander through its ancient ruins and abandoned Gulf War-era homes. Emirates, flydubai, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia, Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways all operate direct flights from the UAE. WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 39

TRAVEL // SHORT FLIGHTS

Kyrgyzstan Est. travel time: 4-5h

Trade the desert for Central Asia’s rugged peaks, where alpine adventure is everywhere. From Bishkek, you can head out to hike the Tian Shan mountains, horse-ride through the valleys of Song-Kul, and spend the night in a traditional yurt. Air Arabia and flydubai both operate direct flights there from the UAE.

Montenegro Est. travel time: 6h

Fly into Tivat and head straight to Kotor’s walled old town to climb the castle ruins, then grab a boat near Perast to Our Lady of the Rocks. To see the wilder side, head north to hike through Durmitor National Park’s pine forests and raft down the Tara River Canyon. flydubai operates seasonal direct flights there from the UAE.

Nepal Est. travel time: 4-5h

Touch down in Kathmandu to explore its busy, incense-scented temple streets, or, starting this month, fly direct to Pokhara with flydubai to jump straight into the Annapurnas. If you’re there for the peaks, make the classic trek to Everest Base Camp or trace the dramatic Annapurna Circuit. For something a bit more relaxed, spend a few quiet days boating across Phewa Lake, or head south to Chitwan National Park to search for wild rhinos and tigers on safari. Don’t leave without trying a plate of steaming, freshly made buffalo momos. Emirates, Air Arabia, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Himalaya Airlines and Nepal Airlines fly direct to Kathmandu, while flydubai services both cities.

Montenegro

Oman Est. travel time: 1h 10m

Filled with dramatic wadis, wind-swept deserts and historic forts, here you can swim through the turquoise pools of Wadi Shab, camp out under the stars in the Wahiba Sands, and shop for frankincense in Muscat’s old Muttrah Souq. Oman Air, SalamAir, flydubai, Emirates, Etihad and Air Arabia all run direct flights from the UAE.

Qatar Est. travel time: 1h 15m

Wander the maze of Souq Waqif to hunt for spices and eat local street food, then head to the Museum of Islamic Art to check out the collection. For a bit of adventure, drive out to the Inland Sea where the dunes slide right into the water. Qatar Airways, flydubai, Etihad and Air Arabia all run direct flights from the UAE.

Saudi Arabia Est. travel time: 1.5-3h

Kathmandu, Nepal

40 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

Wander the historic mud-brick streets of Diriyah in Riyadh, dive into the bustling coral reefs of the Red Sea and Jeddah, or explore the towering sandstone tombs of AlUla. For a mountain escape, head to the cool, green heights of Abha. Air Arabia, Emirates, flydubai, Etihad, Saudia and flynas all operate direct flights there.

Türkiye Est. travel time: 4.5-5h

Straddling two continents, Türkiye offers a brilliant mix of historic culture and natural beauty. See Istanbul’s iconic Hagia Sophia, watch hot air balloons float over Cappadocia, hike Trabzon’s mountains, or relax along the sun-drenched coast. Emirates, flydubai, Etihad, Air Arabia, Turkish Airlines and Pegasus all operate direct flights there.

Uganda Est. travel time: 5.5h

Known as the ‘Pearl of Africa’, Uganda is a dream destination for wildlife lovers. Trek through the misty forests of Bwindi to sit face-to-face with mountain gorillas, spot tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or explore the Nile. Emirates, flydubai and Uganda Airlines all operate direct flights to Entebbe.

Sri Lanka

Uzbekistan

Est. travel time: 4.5h

This island can offer an incredibly diverse itinerary in a short span of time. Take a train through the tea plantations of Ella, safari in Yala National Park, relax on Galle’s beaches, climb Sigiriya Rock, or explore Kandy’s ancient temples. Emirates, flydubai, SriLankan Airlines and Air Arabia fly direct to Colombo from the UAE.

Tanzania Est. travel time: 5.5h

A visit to this East African destination can make for a spectacular wilderness experience alongside beautiful coastal escapes. Here, you can watch the Great Migration cross the plains of the Serengeti, descend into the wildlifedense Ngorongoro Crater, or challenge yourself by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Afterward, head to the spice island of Zanzibar to wander the cobbled alleyways of Stone Town, relax on white-sand beaches, and see Aldabra tortoises at the nearby Prison Island. Emirates, flydubai and Air Arabia operate direct flights to Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.

Est. travel time: 3-4.5h

The Maldives

The Maldives Est. travel time: 4-4.5h

This archipelago is famous for its crystalclear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life, where you can snorkel alongside manta rays and reef sharks, enjoy world-class dining, or simply relax in an overwater villa on a private island resort. Emirates, flydubai, Etihad and Beond all have direct flights to Malé from Dubai.

The Seychelles

Step straight into the historic Silk Road to admire some of the world’s most spectacular Islamic architecture. Explore Samarkand’s majestic Registan square, wander the mud-walled old town of Khiva, and shop for traditional ceramics in Bukhara’s bazaars. After exploring the monuments, head to Tashkent to experience its leafy parks and Soviet-era metro stations. flydubai, Air Arabia and Uzbekistan Airways offer direct flights to Tashkent and Samarkand.

Uzbekistan

Est. travel time: 4.5h-4h 40m

This Indian Ocean paradise is loved for its dramatic, lush landscapes. Explore the coco de mer palms in Praslin’s Vallée de Mai, ride bicycles around La Digue, or hike the mountain trails of Mahé. It’s also a sanctuary for giant tortoises and rare birds. Emirates and Etihad both operate direct flights to the main island of Mahé.

This article was first published in Business Traveller Middle East – the region’s leading travel magazine. businesstraveller. com/middle-east

WHATSON.AE | AUTUMN 2026 41

TRAVEL // STAYCATION

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort

A resort that manages a genuinely rare trick: kids and adults both leaving happy, without either side having to compromise WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

here’s a particular tension that runs through most family resorts, even the good ones. Either the kids’ side wins, and the grown-ups spend the trip perched at the edge of a splash pool with a lukewarm coffee, or the adults’ side wins, and the children are politely tolerated rather than catered for. Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, tucked into Al Hamra Village on the Ras Al Khaimah coastline, is one of the places that actually solves this. Nobody was sacrificed for anybody else’s holiday.

THE RESORT The grounds do a lot of the work here. They’re lush and properly manicured – not the box-ticking greenery you get at some beach resorts, but the kind you actually want to walk through rather than past. Someone has also thought hard about mood: music plays quietly wherever you go, so you’re never quite out of that soothed, on-holiday register, even midargument with your three-year-old about sunscreen. A small touch, but it adds up. 42 AUTUMN 2026 | WHATSON.AE

THE FOOD & DRINK

The design leans on French art de vivre without feeling imported – there’s a real effort to root it in Ras Al Khaimah rather than parachute in European elegance. It shows in details drawn from the emirate’s three tribes: earth, sea and mountain. Wave-inspired art ripples across the lobby ceiling, rock-textured detailing climbs the walls, and the effect is a building that nods to where it actually is. The pools are the headline act. In a market where every resort claims a standout pool, this one earns it – there’s one they bill as the longest in the Northern Emirates, and it’s genuinely photogenic, not just long for the sake of it. Between that, the swim-up bar and the general spread of water across the property, we were never queuing for our share of it.

THE ROOM Our room was well put-together and quietly did everything it needed to do – no gimmicks, no theatrical flourishes. Good bedding, a spacious balcony with plush seating to frame the view, nothing that irritated over a few days, which is its own kind of success. Not every stay needs to be a design statement; sometimes you want a room that gets out of the way and lets the resort do the talking.

This is where Sofitel Al Hamra pulls ahead of the competition. East does the all-day, easy-going stuff well – breakfast especially, which matters more than people admit when you’ve got children to feed before 9am. Reunion brings proper French brasserie energy, and everyone at our table ordered differently through the three courses – by dessert there was a grudging consensus that my combination had won: lobster soup, gnocchetti, profiteroles. A small victory, but I’ll take it. Waka is the one we talked about after we left: open-fire cooking, Polynesian-leaning plates with a Latin American streak, and enough theatre to make dinner feel like an event rather than a refuel. Even with two children in tow, we never felt like we were eating the compromise menu.

THE ENTERTAINMENT The kids’ club is well-run and, crucially, kept ours occupied rather than just supervised – the kids’ disco a particular standout, while the adults enjoyed a drink and some brief alone time nearby. Outdoor football pitches and volleyball courts burn off energy the beach alone won’t, and the ice-cream shop is exactly the kind of lowstakes bribery every parent needs. Service throughout was a genuine highlight: warm without being intrusive, and switched-on in the way that makes a stay feel easy rather than managed.

THE DETAILS Al Hamra Village, Ras Al Khaimah. @sofitelalhamra

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SHUROOQ BRINGS YOU CLOSER TO EVERY SIDE OF SHARJAH Al Noor Island

Khorfakkan Beach

Al Majaz Waterfront

Al Qasba

TWO COASTLINES. ENDLESS REASONS TO STAY. A beachfront breakfast before the city wakes. A run beside the sea. An afternoon of family fun. Dinner with the lights reflected across the water. Across Sharjah, Shurooq creates destinations that turn simple moments into experiences worth staying for. Spend the day on the wide sands of Al Heera Beach, with cafés, cycling tracks and open spaces extending along the coast. Head east to Khorfakkan Beach, where mountain views meet clear waters and every visit feels like an escape. In the city, Al Majaz Waterfront brings dining, family entertainment and evening walks to the edge of Khalid Lagoon. Al Qasba transforms canal-side moments into lively afternoons and nights, while nearby The Flag Island offers green spaces and panoramic views for a slower pace. Together, these destinations reflect Shurooq’s approach to creating waterfront spaces where people can move, meet, dine, play and reconnect.

Discover Sharjah by the Water DiscoverShurooq.ae