reporter
Olena Stashek
Olena Stashek is a professional Ukrainian artist from Kropyvnytskyi, a cultural writer for Dubai News, covering a wide range of topics with a particular focus on culture, art, hospitality, cinema, music and fashion. Olena is a professional drawing teacher and participant in international fine art exhibitions. That's why she writes her articles about art from the heart, as art has been a passion for her since childhood. Olena also studied at a music school and is a keen music lover, from classical to contemporary.
Stories by Olena Stashek
Coconut Affogato in Real Coconut Shell - Dubai
Rationed cafe in Nad Al Sheba is serving a coconut affogato inside a real coconut shell, pairing hot espresso with creamy coconut ice cream in a tropical, Instagram-ready dessert that is quickly going viral across Dubai.
9 Jun 2026
Alina Bashkina Dubai Concert Lights Up TODA This June
The Alina Bashkina Dubai concert series keeps building momentum at TODA, the Theatre of Digital Art in Madinat Jumeirah. After her cinematic Night at the Movies show, the Ukrainian vocalist returns on June 14 with a brand-new immersive performance, La Nuit Bohème.
6 Jun 2026
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Named JW Marriott Global Ambassador
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been named JW Marriott's first-ever global brand ambassador, a partnership pairing one of the world's most recognized hospitality brands with one of India's most influential global stars and the brand's "Stay in the Moment" well-being platform.
3 Jun 2026
Ukrainian Nights Dubai Lights Up Vyshyvanka Day on the Palm
The second edition of Ukrainian Nights took over Harbor by Samakje at Palm Jumeirah on May 21, 2026, bringing the UAE's Ukrainian community together for a Vyshyvanka Day celebration of live performances, embroidered fashion, karaoke, and shared traditions.
28 May 2026
Celinedee Matahari Closes The Fridge Season 49 in Dubai
Celinedee Matahari headlined the closing night of Concert Series Season 49 at The Fridge Warehouse in Alserkal Avenue on May 19, performing originals, ballads, and K-pop favorites in her first intimate headline show.
23 May 2026
Hollywood Films Shot in UAE: 16 Iconic Locations
The UAE has quietly built one of the most impressive Hollywood filming resumes in the world. From Tom Cruise scaling the Burj Khalifa to the Empty Quarter doubling as a distant planet, here are 16 major films that used the Emirates as their backdrop.
28 Apr 2026
Lyrid Meteor Shower Dubai: Best Times to Watch in 2026
The Lyrid meteor shower Dubai peak arrived the night of April 21–22, 2026, giving residents their best shot at catching bright meteors over the UAE. Head to darker spots like Al Qudra after midnight for the strongest viewing window.
21 Apr 2026
Art Dubai 2026 Free Entry: What to Know
Art Dubai 2026 is making history this May: free admission for the first time in 20 years, with 75+ presentations, large-scale installations, and the Global Art Forum at Madinat Jumeirah.
21 Apr 2026
Gifted Box Dubai: Katsiaryna Ryzhykava's Story
Katsiaryna Ryzhykava launched Gifted Box in Dubai in 2020 with a simple idea — bring people closer even when they are far apart. Each curated, personalized box includes a handwritten card and is tailored to the recipient's hobbies, interests, and personality.
16 Apr 2026
DIFC Art Nights 2026: Free Art, Workshops and Live Music
No tickets. No booking. No fee. DIFC Art Nights 2026 is back for its 21st edition at Gate Village, April 23–26, from 5pm to 10pm daily. Entry is free, with Christie's and Opera Gallery co-curating the programme.
13 Apr 2026
UAE Doc Shortlisted at New York Festivals 2026
In a defining moment for the UAE's creative industry, Donna Benton and Reim El Houni have taken The ENTERTAINER and Ti22 Films to the global spotlight. The branded documentary has been shortlisted at the New York Festivals TV & Film Awards 2026 — the only UAE entry recognized
7 Apr 2026
Omar Harfouch's Concerto for Peace Returns to Dubai
Dubai experienced an evening of rare emotional intensity as the Concerto for Peace, led by Omar Harfouch, was performed at Steinway & Sons — drawing ambassadors, DMCC chairman Ahmed Bin Sulayem, and guests from across the UAE.
5 Apr 2026
Sound of the Soul Dubai: Dates, Venues & What to Expect
Sound of the Soul is a multisensory live experience coming to Dubai on 16 and 18 April 2026. Created by pianist and wellness advocate Raisa Knusel, it blends live music, crystal sound bowls, aromatherapy, and breathwork at two iconic Dubai venues.
1 Apr 2026
Omar Harfouch's Concerto for Peace Draws Elite to Dubai
Franco-Lebanese pianist Omar Harfouch staged his Concerto for Peace at Steinway & Sons Dubai on April 3, bringing together 300 VIP guests in a cultural evening celebrating Dubai's unity, safety, and global standing.
1 Apr 2026
Dinosaurs: The Immersive Odyssey at Dubai Festival City
Dubai Festival City Mall is now home to Dinosaurs: The Immersive Odyssey, a multi-sensory attraction combining VR, life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and interactive play zones. Developed by ActiveMe and Fever, it runs 45–60 minutes for visitors aged four and above.
18 Mar 2026
Art Dubai 2026: Global Galleries and Digital Art Take Stage
Art Dubai 2026 returns to Madinat Jumeirah from April 15 to 19, marking the fair's 20th anniversary with 120-plus exhibitors, five curated sections and a landmark Art Dubai Digital programme themed "Myth of the Digital."
12 Mar 2026
Infrared Shape Roller Treatment Trending in Dubai Studios
Infrared shape roller treatment is gaining traction across Dubai's fitness and recovery studios. Studio14 has introduced guided sessions using roller machines that pair rotating massage with infrared heat, drawing residents curious about non-invasive body care and circulation
12 Mar 2026
Splash Ramadan Collection 2026 Featuring Maya Diab
Middle East fashion retailer Splash has launched its Ramadan Collection 2026 with Lebanese singer and brand ambassador Maya Diab fronting the campaign. The edit spans kaftans, flowing dresses, co-ord sets, abayas and accessories in a palette of ivory, blush, sage, soft gold, and
5 Mar 2026
Easy Iftar Recipes: 8 Fuss-Free Dishes for Ramadan
When it's nearly Iftar and you want something nourishing without spending hours cooking, simple recipes with minimal ingredients are the answer. Less prep, less mess — and more time to enjoy the moment. Here are eight easy 5-ingredient Iftar recipes perfect for Ramadan evenings.
2 Mar 2026
Dubai Ramadan Cannon Locations: Full List 2026
Dubai Police's mobile iftar cannon Al Rahal is touring 17 locations across Dubai during Ramadan 2026, alongside six fixed cannons at landmarks including Burj Khalifa and JBR. Here's the full list of Dubai Ramadan cannon locations.
1 Mar 2026
Six Senses The Palm Dubai: Suites, Spa & Residences
Six Senses The Palm Dubai has opened reservations for stays from September 1, 2026. Located on Palm Jumeirah's West Crescent, the all-suite resort features 61 suites, 172 branded residences, and a 60,000 sq ft spa — marking Six Senses' debut in the UAE.
28 Feb 2026
Riverdance Abu Dhabi 2026 at Etihad Arena This Halloween
Riverdance Abu Dhabi 2026 is confirmed for Etihad Arena on October 31 and November 1. The 30th anniversary production, Riverdance 30 The New Generation, brings fresh choreography, new performers, and the iconic Irish dance score to the UAE capital for Halloween weekend.
26 Feb 2026
Danya Mohammed Owns Monday Night at Blume Dubai
Dubai Bling star Danya Mohammed gave followers a peek into her Monday evening, posting from Blume Dubai inside Fashion Avenue at Dubai Mall. The reality TV personality shared her dinner setting on Instagram Story, putting one of Downtown's most talked-about restaurants back in
25 Feb 2026
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 Records 20,000 Visits
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 set a new record with more than 20,000 trade visits from professionals across 80 countries, making it the largest edition in the global World of Coffee series. The sixth edition is confirmed for January 2027 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
21 Feb 2026
Dubai Police Mobile Iftar Cannon 2026: Locations & Schedule
As Ramadan 2026 begins, Dubai residents can witness the UAE's most cherished tradition — the firing of the iftar cannon. Dubai Police has deployed Al Rahal, its mobile cannon, touring 17 locations across the emirate to bring communities together at sunset.
20 Feb 2026
Best Iftars in Dubai 2026: Budget Deals to Five-Star Feasts
Ramadan 2026 in Dubai brings one of the most anticipated dining seasons of the year. From lavish hotel buffets and waterfront majlis to affordable set menus, this guide to the best iftars in Dubai 2026 covers top picks across every neighbourhood — Downtown, DIFC, Deira
19 Feb 2026
Ramadan 2026 Instagram Accounts to Follow
Ramadan is a time for reflection, renewal and intentional living. Here are nine Ramadan 2026 Instagram accounts spanning modest fashion, luxury style, wellness and entrepreneurship to inspire calm and conscious living throughout the Holy Month.
17 Feb 2026
MEGACAMPUS Summit Dubai 2026: Speakers, Tickets
MEGACAMPUS Summit 2026 comes to Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on March 6–7, bringing together 13,000 leaders for the world's largest lecture event. Speakers include James Cameron, Magnus Carlsen, Robert Greene, Wim Hof, and Dave Ulrich. Tickets from AED 220.
16 Feb 2026
Supernova Burgers Dubai Pop-Up at Marsa Boulevard
Supernova Burgers Dubai pop-up landed at Marsa Boulevard this February, drawing nightly queues for its dry-aged cheeseburgers, classic fries, and house sauce — straight from the London cult favourite's stripped-back playbook.
11 Feb 2026
Marina Futymska's "Light Within Paper" Opens in Dubai
Ukrainian artist and architect Marina Futymska opened her solo watercolor exhibition "Light Within Paper" in Dubai on February 8, 2026, showcasing 81 works including botanical painting and wet-on-wet techniques.
10 Feb 2026
Youmna Khoury: The Beauty Philosophy Behind Youmi Beauty
Youmna Khoury, the Lebanese founder of Youmi Beauty, has built her brand the same way she built her life — with discipline, empathy, and purpose. Here, she shares the beauty philosophy, personal rituals, and entrepreneurial mindset behind one of the GCC's fastest-growing beauty
9 Feb 2026
Echoes in Colors: Ukrainian Art Exhibition in Abu Dhabi
The Ukrainian group exhibition "Echoes in Colors" opened in Abu Dhabi on February 5, 2026, at N2N Gallery in Etihad Tower 3 — following its Dubai debut — as part of the Month of Ukraine in the UAE initiative.
7 Feb 2026
Japanese No-Bake Cheesecake: Dubai's Viral Food Trend
Dubai has never been slow to adopt a food trend. From dalgona coffee to tissue bread, the city turns internet obsessions into kitchen experiments. The latest is the Japanese no-bake cheesecake — a simple two-ingredient yogurt and biscuit dessert that has taken over TikTok and
4 Feb 2026
Eugen Khmara Dubai Concert Sells Out Alserkal Avenue
Ukrainian composer and virtuoso pianist Eugen Khmara sold out two performances of his "Two Worlds" concert at The Fridge Warehouse, Alserkal Avenue, on Saturday 31 January 2026, delighting fans and piano lovers across Dubai.
4 Feb 2026
Ravi Restaurant Opens on Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai's beloved Ravi Restaurant has opened a fine-dining branch on Sheikh Zayed Road, directly opposite the Museum of the Future. Same iconic Pakistani menu — nihari, karahi, biryani — now served in a polished, skyline-facing setting.
2 Feb 2026
Dubai in February: What to See, Do and Where to Stay
Dubai in February offers mild 25°C days, sunny skies, and full access to beaches, desert safaris, and iconic landmarks — making it one of the UAE's best months to visit. Here's everything you need to plan your trip.
2 Feb 2026
Dubai Date Night Ideas Beyond Restaurants
Tired of dinner-and-dessert routines? These 10 Dubai date night ideas go far beyond restaurants — think Aura Skypool, desert stargazing, Hatta kayaking, horse riding, outdoor cinema, and go-kart racing at Dubai Autodrome.
27 Jan 2026
G-Dragon Headlines First Dubai K-Pop Concert
Dubai is officially getting a massive K-pop moment. Global superstar G-Dragon headlines the Krazy Super Concert on February 17 at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre — his first-ever live performance in the UAE — joined by Jay Park, KUN, Agnez Mo, and host Kim Jong-kook. Tickets from
27 Jan 2026
3-Day Dubai Itinerary for Families with Kids
Dubai is famous for luxury skyscrapers and beach clubs, but it is also one of the world's most family-friendly cities. This 3-day itinerary covers the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Kite Beach, Old Dubai's souks, and an Arabian Desert safari — everything you need for an unforgettable
26 Jan 2026
11 Dubai Metro Attractions You Can Reach for AED 3
Dubai is packed with iconic landmarks and cultural attractions — but you don't need a car or an expensive taxi to reach them. With a Nol card and Dubai's metro and bus network, you can explore the city's best spots for as little as AED 3.
22 Jan 2026
Concerts in Dubai 2026: 17 Must-See Shows
Dubai's 2026 concert calendar is packed with 17 confirmed shows — from Dream Theater's 40th anniversary and Wu-Tang Clan's only Middle East date to Def Leppard's first UAE headline in over a decade. Here is the full lineup.
20 Jan 2026
'Echoes in Colors' Ukrainian Art Exhibition Opens in Dubai
The Embassy of Ukraine in Abu Dhabi launched the Month of Ukraine in the UAE (Jan 8–Feb 15). The 'Echoes in Colors' exhibition opened Jan 15 at Renaissance Business Bay Hotel Dubai, showcasing Ukrainian artists' themes of resilience, identity, and continuity.
17 Jan 2026
OFFLIMITS Music Festival Returns to Abu Dhabi 2026
Abu Dhabi is gearing up for another massive musical celebration as OFFLIMITS Music Festival returns in April 2026, following a debut that drew huge crowds and firmly put the city on the global festival map.
15 Jan 2026
6 New Dubai Attractions to Visit in 2026
Dubai's newest 2026 attractions span licensed entertainment streets, immersive sensory parks, an Al Quoz arcade hub, a waterpark with the Middle East's first triple surf simulator, and two unique group-activity venues. Here are six must-visit openings for residents and visitors
14 Jan 2026
Celebrities Who Live in Dubai: Why the Stars Call It Home
Dubai has become one of the world's top destinations for global celebrities seeking privacy, safety, and a tax-free luxury lifestyle. From Hollywood's Lindsay Lohan to football legend Rio Ferdinand, here are 12 famous personalities who now call Dubai home.
7 Jan 2026
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 Unites Global Coffee Leaders
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 brought together global coffee leaders at Dubai World Trade Centre from January 18–20, organised by DXB LIVE with the Specialty Coffee Association. The fifth edition set new records with 2,100+ exhibitors from 78 countries.
7 Jan 2026
GCC Green Tourism 2026: UAE and Gulf States Go Eco
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain are rolling out coordinated GCC green tourism 2026 plans — from a unified regional visa to solar-powered resorts and nature conservation zones — positioning the Gulf as a rising leader in sustainable travel.
6 Jan 2026
BTS Comeback 2026 Sends Dubai ARMY Into Countdown
BTS has confirmed its long-anticipated 2026 comeback for March 20, following the completion of all seven members' mandatory military service. Dubai ARMY is officially counting down — here's what fans know so far.
4 Jan 2026
FIX Chocolate Now at Dubai Airport Terminals
FIX Dessert Chocolatier has expanded to two Dubai International Airport terminals, with pop-ups now open in Terminal 1 Concourse D and Terminal 3 Concourse B — giving travelers direct access to the viral pistachio-kunafa chocolate bars.
3 Jan 2026
Navon CEO Georgiana Mart Champions CSR Backed by Data
Georgiana Mart, Founder and CEO of Navon, advances a philanthropy model that meets widely recognized Corporate Social Responsibility standards. KPMG, Deloitte, Edelman, and PwC data all support the investor value of sustained CSR activity across education, employment, and social
31 Dec 2025