News

5 Million visitors so far in Dubai in 2024

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.

With the commencement of the Arabian Travel Market 2024, we are pleased to share that Dubai's tourism sector has started the year on a promising note. The city welcomed close to 5.2 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2024, marking an 11% surge from the same… pic.twitter.com/hINULoIpfu— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) May 6, 2024

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.

News

How to Dress Like a Billionaire Without Breaking the Bank

The UAE is home to some of the most fashion-forward and ultra-luxurious styles in the world. From the streets of Downtown Dubai to the high-end lounges of Abu Dhabi’s Al Maryah Island, fashion is all about status, quality, and exclusivity. But what if you want to look like a Billionaire without spending like one?

Here’s your ultimate guide to dressing like a UAE-based Billionaire—without the Burj Khalifa-sized price tag.

The UAE’s fashion scene thrives on a mix of luxury and streetwear, blending designer brands, rare sneakers, and bold accessories. Here are the top high-end streetwear brands making waves in Dubai and Abu Dhabi:

🔥 Luxury Streetwear Labels to Invest In

✅ Amiri – The Hollywood-inspired rockstar brand is a major flex in Dubai. Think distressed denim, statement sneakers, and bold graphics—all with a luxury price tag.

✅ Fear of God (Essentials) – Loved for its oversized silhouettes and muted colour palette, this label screams understated luxury. You’ll see it everywhere in DIFC and City Walk.

✅ Palm Angels – Mixing Italian tailoring with LA skate culture, Palm Angels is a go-to for statement tracksuits and bold streetwear pieces.

✅ Represent – A UK-based brand that’s exploding in the UAE for its sleek, high-quality hoodies, denim, and minimal branding.

✅ Off-White – The legacy of Virgil Abloh lives on, with the UAE’s streetwear elite rocking Off-White’s industrial belts, sneakers, and graphic tees.

2. Where to Find Designer Dupes & Secondhand Luxury Pieces

💰 Buy Secondhand Luxury & Save Big

You don’t need to pay full price to wear Dior, Balenciaga, or Gucci. The UAE has some of the best secondhand luxury stores, where you can score authentic designer pieces for a fraction of the cost.

🛍 The Luxury Closet (Dubai & Online) – UAE’s top online platform for secondhand designer fashion. Find everything from Hermès bags to Balenciaga sneakers at 50-70% off retail prices.

👛 Brand Connection (JLT, Dubai) – One of the best pre-loved luxury boutiques in the UAE, selling authenticated Chanel, Prada, and Louis Vuitton pieces.

👠 Reems Closet (Dubai) – A hidden gem for secondhand designer shoes, handbags, and accessories.

Actual billionaires often adopt their own dress code

🛒 Where to Buy High-Quality Designer Dupes

If you love the designer look but not the hefty price tag, the UAE has high-quality designer-inspired brands that deliver the luxury aesthetic without the cost.

🖤 Daneh – A UAE-based brand offering luxurious, high-fashion silhouettes at affordable prices.

💎 Charles & Keith – The go-to for luxury-inspired handbags and shoes, giving you Chanel vibes without the Chanel price tag.

👕 Massimo Dutti – If you want a Tom Ford-level wardrobe without spending AED 20K, Massimo Dutti’s premium collections offer tailored, timeless essentials at a fraction of the cost.

3. Style Hacks to Look Like You Belong in a Burj Al Arab Penthouse

💼 Tailoring is Everything – A well-fitted suit, blazer, or dress instantly elevates your look. Even budget-friendly brands look high-end when they fit perfectly.

🌎 Stick to a Neutral Colour Palette – The UAE’s luxury elite keep their wardrobe clean and sophisticated with tones like white, black, beige, and navy.

🕶 Invest in One Statement Piece – Whether it’s a luxury watch, designer sunglasses, or high-end sneakers, one standout accessory can make your whole look feel expensive.

👞 Footwear Matters – You won’t catch Dubai’s elite in worn-out shoes. Invest in premium leather loafers or minimal white sneakers for an instant upgrade.

⏳ Grooming is Key – From perfectly styled hair to clean nails, personal grooming makes all the difference. A fresh fade and well-kept beard go a long way in looking like you own a penthouse in Jumeirah Beach Residences.

Many Billionaires opt for the formal look in public

Final Thoughts

Dressing like a Billionaire in the UAE is all about confidence, quality, and knowing where to shop smart. Whether you’re hitting up The Dubai Mall, Bluewaters Island, or Abu Dhabi’s Galleria, looking like a VIP doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

With the right pieces, smart shopping, and styling tricks, you can turn heads and fit right in with the UAE’s fashion elite—without maxing out your credit card.

Concerts

Sting 3.0 Tour: The Iconic Music Legend is Coming to 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.

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 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:

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

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.

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

Break The Block: A Night of Music at Expo City Dubai

News

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

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.

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:

Versa Aerospace
- Location: Abu Dhabi, Al Asayl Racing & Equestrian Club
- Website: www.versa-aerospace.ae
- Contact: +971 2 246 4317 | registration@versa-aerospace.com
Melaaha Drones
- Location: Fujairah, Alhail Industrial Area
- Contact: 050 551 3035 | info@melaaha.ae
Emirates Falcon Aeroclub
- Location: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain
- Contact: 03 7854 444 | info@emiratesfalcons.ae

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:

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.

Drone. UAE. 2025 12 — 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.

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.

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.