Latest from FACT
FACT
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- FACT
Soul sensation Teddy Swims announces first-ever Dubai show
The global phenomenon will take to the stage in Dubai this autumn. Grammy-nominated singer Teddy Swims will perform live in Dubai on 22 November at Coca-Cola Arena as part of his I've Tried Everything But Therapy Tour. If you'd like to see the hitmaker, here's how to get hold of tickets. The multi-platinum star will be joined by his band, Freak Freely, performing fan favourites and genre-blending tracks like The Door' and Bad Dreams. He will also perform his record-breaking hit Lose Control, the longest-charting Billboard Hot 100 hit in history and the track that placed him in Spotify's Billions Club. His first two albums, I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1) and I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2), established him as one of the industry's most respected, soulful, and multi-talented artists. On 27 June, Swims will release I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Complete Edition), featuring his latest single God Went Crazy. He will also release recent collaborations with BigXthaPlug and Raiche – just one week before embarking on his international tour. The tour will span the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and the UAE. Swims said: 'Last time I came to the UAE, I had the best time – taking in the most beautiful views with the most beautiful people this Earth has to offer! I love you and I can't wait to get together and celebrate live music!' Thomas Ovesen, CEO of All Things Live Middle East, said: 'Teddy Swims is one of the most exciting voices in music today, and we're thrilled to be bringing him to Dubai for the very first time. His energy, soul, and connection with fans make his live shows unforgettable – and we're proud to give audiences here the chance to experience that magic at Coca-Cola Arena this November.' Standing ticketholders will have access to the official fan party and the chance to win signed merchandise. Pre-sale registration opens on Friday, 20 June at 8am, followed by a 24-hour pre-sale starting Monday, 23 June at 10am. Registration for the pre-sale is open now. General tickets go on sale on Tuesday, 24 June at 10am. GO: Visit for more information.
FACT
a day ago
- Entertainment
- FACT
The European Film Festival returns to Abu Dhabi
The European Film Festival celebrates cinema, culture and collaboration. There's always something happening in Abu Dhabi. While local talent and culture remain at the centre of the capital's creative scene, it also knows how to embrace the world. This time, Abu Dhabi is marking the return of the celebrated European Film Festival. Back for its second edition, the celebration of cinema will take place from 23 to 29 June at the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi. Organised by the European Union Delegation to the UAE, in collaboration with the Cultural Foundation, this week-long celebration of cinema aims to bridge cultures, foster dialogue, and showcase diverse perspectives. The theme of this year's festival revolves around identity, resilience, and social change. Seventeen films from across the continent will be screened, spotlighting cinematic gems from France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and more. Expect coming-of-age dramas, historical adventures, comedies, and much more. Some of the films to look out for include Bigman from the Netherlands, Ramona from Spain, Dangerous Gentlemen from Poland, and Four Souls of Coyote from Hungary. For the first time, the festival will also feature an Emirati production. Mountain Boy, directed by Zainab Shaheen and brought to life by a 32-member Emirati cast and crew, will join the line-up, marking a significant moment of cultural exchange and collaboration between the UAE and Europe. In addition to the screenings, the European Film Festival will host a free three-day workshop. Aimed at aspiring filmmakers and screenwriters, these sessions are designed to support local talent with practical skills and industry insights. Tickets to the European Film Festival screenings start from AED 25 per film. So, whether you're a cinephile or a budding filmmaker, this festival promises to entertain, educate, and inspire. GO: Visit for more information.
FACT
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- FACT
Renowned Indian restaurant Gymkhana will make its Dubai debut
Gymkhana can already be found in London and Riyadh. Gymkhana has made a name for itself as one of the finest Indian restaurants in the world – and now, it's making its debut in Dubai. Originally launched in London and with an outpost in Riyadh, the Gymkhana Dubai is preparing to open its doors in the landmark location of DIFC. When Gymkhana first opened in London in 2013, it quickly became a critical and commercial success. It went on to earn a coveted MICHELIN Star, which put it on the culinary map. Its Riyadh debut came in 2021 as a pop-up during Riyadh Season, before returning in 2023 as the brand's first permanent international location. Since then, it has garnered a string of accolades, including Best Indian Restaurant at the FACT Dining Awards Riyadh 2024 and Best Newcomer at the FACT Dining Awards Riyadh 2023. Gymkhana Dubai draws its inspiration from gymkhana clubs of colonial India. These were former elite social clubs where members dined, drank, and played sports. The restaurant is known for its elevated take on classic Indian cuisine. The menu features biriyanis, curries, kebabs, sabzis and tikkas. Plus, game and chop dishes. FACT favourites include the Chettinad Duck Dosa with Coconut Chutney, Kid Goat Methi Keema with Salli and Pao, Wild Muntjac Biryani, and Duck Egg Langoustine Bhurji with Malabar Paratha. Gymkhana has always chosen prestigious places for its restaurants. It is located on Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London. In Riyadh, it is located in Via Riyadh near the Diplomatic Quarter. The latest location has also been carefully chosen with Gymkhana Dubai opening near Royal China and several FACT Dining Award winners close to The Ritz-Carlton DIFC. No matter the city, stepping into Gymkhana is like stepping back in time. The décor evokes the charm of a bygone era, with black-and-white cricket club portraits, deer heads, fringed lampshades, and wooden ceiling fans. Even the bathrooms stay true to the theme, with vintage-style cast-iron cisterns and chain-pull flushes. Check in with FACT for the best things to do in Dubai. GO: Visit for more information.
FACT
4 days ago
- Business
- FACT
Urban Treasures 2025: Community concepts in Abu Dhabi
From bakers to tailors, here are the special small businesses. The UAE has always been big on preserving its rich culture and heritage, and rightly so. With stories stemming from every street, the country is doing everything to highlight these narratives. One of the coolest ways Abu Dhabi does this is through the annual Urban Treasures 2025 initiative, and this time around, it has unveiled a fresh batch of pioneers. Urban Treasures is an initiative by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi that honours long-running, homegrown businesses that have contributed to the capital's cultural fabric over the past two decades — and sometimes even longer. Now in its fourth edition, it includes everything from restaurants and sweet shops to tailors and clinics — places that have served generations and are deeply rooted in community life. This year's list shines a spotlight on 15 establishments that have stood the test of time. Ahmed Sultan Al Salami Trading and Importing This family-run shop has been around since 1948 and remains one of Al Ain's most trusted fabric and incense stores. With offerings for both men and women, its traditional offerings with modern service make it a valued part of the community. Al Jumaira Studio & Stores Starting in Al Ain in 1991, Al Jumaira has grown into a retail hub across the UAE. It offers a wide range of products, from electronics and perfumes to musical instruments and photography services, all under one roof. Al Yahar Modern Restaurant & Kitchen Serving Al Ain since 1983, this restaurant is a favourite for its mandi, Emirati and Arabic dishes. With its comforting hospitality and rich flavours, it's a must-visit for fans of local cuisine. Al Ain International Medical Polyclinic Established in 1999, this clinic introduced advanced dental laser technology to the United Arab Emirates. Today, it remains a leader in medical and dental care, having stood the test of time. Al Sidr Natural Honey Since 1986, this honey shop in Al Danah has been associated with pure and traditional production methods of honey. Its premium-quality liquid gold reflects the region's natural essence and heritage, making it an urban treasure. Baqala Cheese & Pickles Centre This Abu Dhabi-based store has been serving up goodness since 1983 with its collection of artisan cheeses, gourmet pickles and speciality food items. Bridging tradition and modern taste, it promises a flavourful journey for all. Gulf Pastry Baking since 1999, Gulf Pastry Company has become a household name with 43 branches across the UAE. It specialises in traditional Middle Eastern pastries and is loved for sticking to time-honoured recipes while evolving to meet modern tastes. Happy Yemen Restaurant Operating in Abu Dhabi since 1982, this restaurant specialises in Yemeni and Khaleeji dishes. Whether you're craving a plate of mandi or a slow-cooked stew, the flavours here are deep, rich and soulful — just like Abu Dhabi's DNA. Khulood Club Since 1984, Khulood Club in Al Danah has been a fitness institution. Known for its martial arts training, including karate, kickboxing, MMA, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, it also features a fully equipped gym. The club is dedicated to building a community centred on discipline, strength, and personal growth. Mohammed Farooq Perfumes Located in Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, this perfume shop has been in operation since 1980 and is a true Urban Treasure. It's renowned for offering both Arabic and French fragrances, blending authenticity with elegance in every bottle. NAURAS Founded in 1969, Nauras introduced the Florida Sandal to the UAE and continues to manufacture its shoes in Italy. This Abu Dhabi-based brand is known for timeless, high-quality leather footwear that is valued to this day, making it an urban treasure. Orchid Tailoring & Embroidery Shop A go-to for bespoke tailoring since 1987, Orchid Tailoring in Abu Dhabi is known for its custom-fit garments, top-tier fabrics, and traditional craftsmanship. It's the kind of place where they still believe in tailoring clothes perfectly to ensure customer satisfaction. It is this dedication that has kept customers loyal and returning time and again. Shawarma Ala AlRagef Cafeteria Located inside the Co-op Society building in Al Ain, this local gem has been satisfying shawarma cravings since 1991. It's quick, flavourful, and a classic pit stop for a wholesome bite and one of the OG cafeterias in the region. Three Star Watches Shop Located in Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, this shop has been open since 1985. With a mix of classic and modern timepieces, Three Star Watches is a trusted name for those who know their watches and like to source the most authentic, classic pieces. Zahrat Al Khaleej Nabulsi Sweets A sweet staple in Al Ain since 1981, Zahrat Al Khaleej is famous for its kunafa and other Nabulsi desserts. This shop is all about authentic flavours, quality ingredients, and time-tested recipes passed down through generations. Now it's up to you to explore the Urban Treasures, support them, and keep their legacy alive for generations to come. GO: Visit for more information.
FACT
10-06-2025
- FACT
iOS 26: The Apple update everyone will be talking about this year
From sleek aesthetics to smarter tools, this is Apple at its most innovative. Apple just unveiled iOS 26, but unlike the company's usual annual update, this is a full-blown reimagining of how your iPhone works, looks, and learns. Aligning the name with the year, iOS 26 arrives with a suite of intelligent upgrades and futuristic features designed to make everyday tasks smoother and smarter. Here's why it's turning heads. Liquid Glass design Apple introduces its most visually stunning interface yet with Liquid Glass. The design brings a fresh, translucent aesthetic to your iPhone and iPad, responding to your surroundings and making app icons and widgets more dynamic than before. If you remember changing the themes on your Nokia phones back in the day, this is precisely that — except there are no sketchy downloads required. Apple Intelligence After teasing it in earlier updates, Apple Intelligence now makes its official debut, and it's built right into the fabric of your apps. Need to summarise a long email or polish a clunky message? Done. This AI-powered assistant enhances everything from writing and editing to search and scheduling, quietly doing the heavy lifting behind the scenes. Visual Intelligence Your iPhone now understands the context of what's on your screen. Looking at a party invite? Visual Intelligence will suggest adding it to your calendar. Shopping online? It may pull up related offers. It's an innovative and seamless addition to iOS 26, designed to save you time without breaking your flow. Live Translation Whether you're FaceTiming a friend in Paris or chatting with a colleague in Kyoto, Live Translation now works across Phone, FaceTime, and Messages. It translates spoken or written language in real-time, making global conversations feel more natural and a lot less awkward. Smarter messages Say goodbye to chaotic group messages. iOS 26 introduces polls directly into the Messages app, allowing friends to vote on plans without the need for back-and-forth. Apple Intelligence will even suggest a poll when it detects you're organising a meetup. Smart, social, and seriously convenient. Phone screening No more answering awkward, unknown numbers. Call Screening gives you a brief on who's calling and why — before you pick up. It works alongside Voicemail, so you can follow up at your leisure, without the pressure. Upgraded maps If you've ever forgotten the name of the Karak spot you stumbled upon a month ago, fret not. With the new Visited Places feature in Maps, your iPhone privately logs all the places you've been to so you can revisit them later. And that's not all. iOS 26 brings Genmoji, which lets you create custom emojis based on prompts, Lyrics Translation and AutoMix in Apple Music, upgraded CarPlay, a sharper Wallet, and a fun new AirPods selfie trigger so you can capture the moment hands-free. iOS 26 is now available for developers, with a public beta scheduled to roll out next month. The full version is expected to launch this fall for iPhone 11 and later models, although Apple Intelligence features will be exclusive to newer models, such as the iPhone 15 Pro and beyond. GO: Visit for more information.
