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5 Million visitors so far in Dubai in 2024

Dubai1

Dubai continues to cement its status as a premier global destination, witnessing an unprecedented surge in visitor numbers in the early months of 2024. 5 Million visitors so far in Dubai in 2024 is quite a jump.

The city welcomed nearly 5.2 million overnight visitors from January through March, marking an 11 percent increase from the same period in 2023.

This growth underscores Dubai’s enduring appeal and its successful strategies in attracting international tourists.

The positive trend was highlighted by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, in a recent post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

His Highness expressed his enthusiasm for the results, stating that Dubai remains dedicated to providing an outstanding tourism experience.

This commitment aligns with the ambitious objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the top three global cities for tourism by enhancing its sector capabilities.

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This surge in tourism can be attributed to Dubai’s world-renowned attractions and its status as home to the busiest international airport.

The city’s unique blend of modernity and tradition, coupled with its world-class infrastructure, continues to attract a diverse array of visitors.

From the architectural marvel of the Burj Khalifa to the historic charm of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai offers a rich tapestry of experiences that appeal to tourists of all types.

READ MORE: The Dubai Food Festival

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Dubai’s strategic efforts to boost its tourism sector have clearly paid dividends, as evidenced by the 17.15 million international overnight visitors it hosted last year.

With the city’s ongoing initiatives to enhance tourist experiences and infrastructure, there’s a strong indication that these numbers will only continue to grow.

Dubai’s commitment to innovation and excellence in hospitality makes it a top choice for travellers seeking both luxury and adventure in the heart of the Middle East.

Dubai stands as a premier destination for its unique blend of modern luxury and fascinating tradition.

This dynamic city is home to world-class architecture, including the towering Burj Khalifa and the stunning Burj Al Arab.

Dubai’s shopping experiences range from expansive malls like the Dubai Mall to traditional souks, offering something for every type of shopper.

With year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and extravagant entertainment options such as indoor skiing and skydiving, Dubai appeals to adventure seekers and luxury travelers alike.

Moreover, its strategic location makes it a vital global business hub and a crossroads for cultural exchange, enhancing its appeal as a must-visit global metropolis.

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Concerts

Sting 3.0 Tour: The Iconic Music Legend is Coming to Abu Dhabi!

Sting will perform in Abu Dhabi

Music lovers in Abu Dhabi, get ready! The legendary 17-time Grammy Award winner Sting is set to bring his electrifying STING 3.0 World Tour to Etihad Arena for one exclusive night on 3 May 2025.

Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner AKA Sting is coming to Abu Dhabi with the The Sting 3.0 Tour
Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner AKA Sting

This once-in-a-lifetime event promises an unforgettable evening of nostalgia, as the music icon delivers a dynamic blend of his greatest hits, timeless classics, and rare gems. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a new listener, this is an extraordinary opportunity to witness one of the most influential musicians of all time live on stage.

The Sting 3.0 Tour
The Sting 3.0 Tour

What to Expect from the STING 3.0 Tour

Known for his genre-defying artistry, Sting’s STING 3.0 Tour is an innovative reinvention of his legendary music career. The show will feature:

🎶 Iconic Hits – Expect timeless anthems from both The Police era and Sting’s incredible solo catalogue.
🎸 Fresh Arrangements – A unique three-piece band setup will bring a stripped-back, high-energy feel to his biggest tracks.
🔥 Unmatched Live Energy – Sting’s charismatic stage presence and legendary musicianship will ensure a performance like no other.

The legendary artist, Sting
The legendary artist, Sting

The Man, The Legend: Sting’s Legacy

With a career spanning decades, Sting is a true music icon, known for crafting some of the most influential songs in rock and pop history. His discography includes:

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  • Every Breath You Take
  • Roxanne
  • Englishman in New York
  • Fields of Gold
  • Shape of My Heart
  • Desert Rose

…and countless others. With 17 Grammy Awards, 100 million+ records sold worldwide, and an indelible mark on global music, Sting continues to captivate audiences across generations.

Sting in the studio recording the new album
Sting in the studio recording the new album

An Exclusive Night at Etihad Arena

📍 Venue: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
📅 Date: 3 May 2025
🎟 Tickets: Stay tuned for official ticket sale announcements

Sting is still going strong with the new Sting 3.0 Tour
Sting is still going strong

The STING 3.0 Tour is set to be one of Abu Dhabi’s most anticipated concerts of 2025, and tickets are expected to sell out fast. Fans should act quickly once they’re available to secure a chance to experience a legendary night of music.

Sting and his favourite mixing engineer
Sting and his favourite mixing engineer

Final Thoughts on the Sting 3.0 Tour

From rock anthems to heartfelt ballads, STING 3.0 is not just a concert—it’s a journey through one of music’s most remarkable careers. Don’t miss out on this rare chance to witness a legend in action at Etihad Arena this May.

📌 Read more in our online magazine: 😎
👉 https://whatshotinuae.com

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UAE Lifts Drone Ban: Here’s How to Get Your Licence and Fly Legally

Drone. UAE. 2025 3

Drone enthusiasts in the UAE have a reason to celebrate! As of 7 January 2025, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) lifted the conditional ban on individual drone use. However, flying a drone in the UAE comes with specific regulations and requirements to ensure safety and compliance. Here’s everything you need to know about obtaining your drone licence and flying legally. The UAE Lifts Drone Ban to great applause.

UAE Lifts Drone Ban
UAE Lifts Drone Ban


Step 1: Register on the UAE Drone Platform

To begin your drone journey, you must create an account on the UAE Drone app (available for Apple and Android) or visit drones.gov.ae. This Unified National Drone Platform simplifies the registration process for drone operators.

If you had a drone registration certificate before 6 January 2025, it is now invalid. You’ll need to reapply on the updated platform.

Drone. UAE. 2025 13
The UAE now has official onboarding for training


Step 2: Obtain a Drone Training Certificate

A GCAA-accredited drone training certificate is mandatory to register as a drone operator. Training is offered at these accredited centres:

  1. Versa Aerospace
  2. Melaaha Drones
    • Location: Fujairah, Alhail Industrial Area
    • Contact: 050 551 3035 | info@melaaha.ae
  3. Emirates Falcon Aeroclub
UAE Lifts Drone Ban
Training can now be done in multiple locations


Step 3: Register as a Drone Operator

After completing your training, register as an operator via the UAE Drone app or website. To qualify, you must:

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  • Be at least 16 years old.
  • Hold a valid drone training certificate.
  • Ensure your drone weighs no more than 5 kg.
  • Comply with all GCAA regulations.
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UAE Lifts Drone Ban


Costs Involved

Registration fees include:

  • Operator registration fee: AED 100 (one-time).
  • Drone registration fee: AED 200 for recreational use (renewable every two years).

Step 4: Submit Flight Requests

Before flying, you must submit a flight request via the app for GCAA approval. Provide details such as:

  • Drone model and weight.
  • Flight location, date, and time.
  • Compliance with designated flight zones.
UAE Lifts Drone Ban
Once flight requests are submitted, fly/no-fly areas are designated.


Drone Flying Restrictions

To ensure safety, the following restrictions apply:

  • No flying near public or private property.
  • Maintain a distance of at least 5 km from airports and controlled zones.
  • Do not fly above 400 feet (120 metres) or outside the line of sight.
  • Fly only during daylight hours.
Drone. UAE. 2025 5
Drone shots can be beautiful, when carried out by trained professionals.


Drone Use in Dubai

While the UAE has lifted the federal drone ban, Dubai recreational drone use is still under review, according to the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.

UAE Lifts Drone Ban
Check with the authorities for up-to-date information.


Stay Safe and Compliant

By following these steps, you can enjoy flying your drone legally in the UAE. Stay updated with GCAA regulations and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com

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Planetary Alignment on January 25th?

Planetary Alignment on January 25th 7

The rumour mill has been buzzing with talk of a spectacular planetary alignment set to occur on January 25, 2025. Social media is ablaze with claims that all the planets in our solar system will line up in a straight row, creating a magical and breathtaking celestial event. But before you grab your telescope and set up camp outdoors, it’s worth noting one important fact: this alignment isn’t happening. While the claim might sound exciting, it’s not based on astronomical reality. However, the night sky this month still promises some fascinating sights. The Planetary Alignment on January 25th certainly has people talking.

Planetary Alignment on January 25th

Is a Planetary Alignment Happening on January 25?

Not exactly. The planets in our solar system orbit the sun along the ecliptic, a flat plane that also encompasses Earth’s orbit. This imaginary line across the sky is what we perceive as the path of the sun, moon, and planets. From our vantage point, the planets appear along this ecliptic line, creating the illusion of alignment. But they don’t line up in a ruler-straight fashion. So, while January 25 won’t feature the kind of alignment depicted in sci-fi movies, the night sky this month still has its fair share of celestial treats.

Planetary Alignment on January 25th

Planetary Alignment on January 25th

What Will Be Visible in January?

Throughout January 2025, six planets will be visible, with four of them easily seen with the naked eye. Venus and Saturn will shine brightly in the southwest during the early evening, while Jupiter will command attention high overhead. Mars will be visible in the east, appearing brighter than usual as it reaches “opposition”—a point where it’s on the opposite side of the Earth from the sun. This positioning makes Mars larger and more luminous in the night sky.

For those equipped with a telescope and an app, Uranus and Neptune will also make an appearance. Although they won’t be in a straight line, having so many planets visible at once is still a remarkable opportunity for stargazers.

Planetary Alignment on January 25th

Celestial Highlights to Watch For

Beyond the planets themselves, January offers additional highlights. On January 13, the moon will appear to pass directly in front of Mars, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Later in the month, Venus and Saturn will engage in a “conjunction,” drawing closer to each other in the southwest sky. On January 17 and 18, the two planets will appear within a few finger widths of each other when viewed at arm’s length. While they remain separated by vast distances in space, their close proximity in the sky will create a captivating display.

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The Planetary Alignment on January 25th

Why the Myth of Planetary Alignments Persists

The notion of planetary alignments often captures the imagination, sparking ideas of mystical energies or significant events. In reality, these alignments are a regular part of planetary motion and rarely have the dramatic visual impact people envision. However, such stories can serve as a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of our universe and encourage us to look up and explore the wonders of the night sky.

Planetary Alignment on January 25th

Conclusion

While there’s no dramatic planetary alignment on January 25, the January sky offers plenty to marvel at. From the brilliance of Venus and Saturn to the fiery glow of Mars, this month is perfect for stargazing enthusiasts. Grab your telescope, check out the apps, and enjoy the celestial delights right above you.

Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com

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