Author: Akbar Travels ME

The UAE is gearing up to illuminate its skyline once again as the nation celebrates its 54th National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. Every year, residents and visitors eagerly look forward to this vibrant week filled with fireworks, cultural shows, and family-friendly events. From November 27 to December 3, 2025, the Emirates will come alive with parades, concerts, and dazzling pyrotechnics that honor the union of the nation on December 2, 1971. To help you plan your celebrations, this guide highlights the best places to watch UAE National Day fireworks in 2025, focusing on Dubai and Abu Dhabi.…

Travelling through Dubai International Airport just got faster and easier. Emirates has introduced more than 200 facial-recognition cameras at Terminal 3, allowing passengers to move from check-in to boarding without showing a passport or phone. This is part of a massive Dh85 million investment aimed at improving passenger flow, reducing waiting times, and delivering a seamless travel experience. A New Era of Biometric Travel Emirates’ latest innovation uses advanced facial-recognition technology developed in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs Dubai (GDRFA). The system identifies passengers from a distance of about one metre, allowing them to continue…

As the UAE National Day approaches, many residents look forward to celebrating the long weekend in style. It’s the perfect time to unwind, explore new destinations, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Whether you prefer beach escapes, cultural explorations, or mountain adventures, Akbar Travels has curated a range of exclusive National Day holiday packages to suit every traveller’s taste and budget. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best destinations for UAE National Day packages, featuring incredible deals and perfectly planned itineraries that combine comfort, excitement, and value. 1. Krabi, Thailand – A Tropical Paradise Awaits Krabi is one…

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey for Muslims, and thousands of residents from the UAE travel to Saudi Arabia every year to fulfill this sacred duty. Recently, however, Saudi authorities have introduced new rules that directly impact pilgrims. Under the updated regulations, all Umrah pilgrims must now pre-book their accommodation and transportation at the time of applying for their Umrah visa. This move aims to streamline travel, ensure safety, and regulate the movement of pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah. For UAE residents, understanding these rules is crucial before making any plans, especially when you begin to book flight tickets…

In a recent update, immigration authorities have introduced an important requirement for all entry permit applications. The Passport External Cover Page has now been made a mandatory document. This rule applies to all nationalities and all visa types, including new entry permits and corrections to existing entry permits. At Akbar Travels, we always keep our customers informed about the latest visa rules and travel updates. In this blog, we explain what this change means, why it is important, and how you can prepare your documents to avoid delays. Secure your Dubai visa approval smoothly by submitting the correct documents with…

Dubai is a city of iconic attractions, and the Dubai Fountain has always been one of its crown jewels. Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa and right next to Dubai Mall, the fountain has captivated millions of visitors with its dazzling displays of water, music, and lights. After months of closure for redevelopment, Emaar has now confirmed that the fountain will reopen in early October 2025. If you are planning a trip to Dubai or already live in the UAE, this update is worth marking on your calendar. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the…

Dubai’s most iconic multicultural attraction, Global Village, has officially announced the opening date for its much-awaited 30th season. The landmark edition will run from October 15, 2025, to May 10, 2026, welcoming millions of visitors once again to experience culture, cuisine, shopping, and entertainment from across the globe. This year is extra special because it also marks 30 years of Global Village. Organisers have promised surprises, new experiences, and bigger celebrations to make the milestone unforgettable. Why Global Village Matters in Dubai Global Village is more than just a theme park. It is one of Dubai’s biggest cultural and entertainment…

Connecting the Gulf to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline, has announced a new milestone in Middle East connectivity. Starting 21st October 2025, the airline will launch three weekly flights from Doha’s Hamad International Airport to the Red Sea International Airport in Saudi Arabia. For travelers based in the United Arab Emirates, this new route opens up a smooth and convenient way to access one of the most exciting leisure destinations in the region. With short connections through Doha, UAE residents can now explore the beauty of the Red Sea with ease. Why the Red Sea…

As the long summer winds down and the cooler months approach, many UAE residents begin looking for the best countries to travel before winter starts. Autumn is the perfect time to explore nearby destinations where the weather is pleasant, crowds are fewer, and experiences are unforgettable. At Akbar Travels, we have designed special Daily Wonders Packages for three must-visit destinations: Georgia, Armenia, and Baku. These short 3 Nights / 4 Days getaways are ideal for travelers who want a quick international escape before the winter season begins. Best of all, they include flights, hotels, tours, and transfers, starting from just…

Saudi Arabia is fast emerging as one of the most attractive travel destinations in the Middle East, welcoming millions of visitors each year for tourism, shopping, and religious travel. To make the experience even more rewarding, the Kingdom has introduced a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) refund programme for tourists. This initiative, launched by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) and managed by Global Blue, allows eligible travelers to reclaim VAT on certain purchases made during their stay. The scheme came into effect on April 18 and is now operational at three major airports. In this guide, we explain…