As September arrives in the UAE, it heralds the return of energy and activity across the region. This month, a significant highlight is the launch of the new Etihad Rail passenger network, creating an exciting opportunity for both residents and visitors. In the latest issue of dubai-lifestyle.ae, we delve into how to navigate this expanding railway, uncovering the best stops, dining recommendations, and entertainment options to enjoy as the temperature cools. Let’s explore what awaits readers.
Your Complete Guide to Etihad Rail
This month’s cover feature offers a comprehensive guide to the Etihad Rail network, detailing each station’s unique offerings as it expands its reach throughout the emirates. From the breathtaking desert dunes of Liwa and Madinat Zayed in Abu Dhabi to the bustling Mohamed Bin Zayed City, which has been active since the network’s launch on June 30, the guide covers it all. New additions include Al Yalayis in Dubai’s Jumeirah Golf Estates, set to join by September 30, as well as Al Dhaid in Sharjah and Al Hilal City on Fujairah’s eastern coast.
For each station, we’ve identified top hotels for your stay—think Bab Al Nojoum near Bateen Liwa, Aldhafra Resort, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, FIVE Jumeirah Village, Moon Retreat by Sharjah Collection, and Palace Beach Resort Fujairah. Additionally, we highlight local events to coincide with your travels, such as the 20th Al Dhafra Festival and the DP World Tour Championship. The trains themselves offer speedy travel at up to 200 km/h, as the entire network will eventually span approximately 900 km, linking all seven emirates from the Saudi border to Fujairah’s coast.
The Best Seats in the House
Choosing the right seat can transform an outing into a memorable experience. In this issue, we’ve curated a list of must-request spots at Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s top venues. Highlights include Table 15 at Carbone for an ideal people-watching vantage, the plush couches at the back of Cinema Akil for an optimal view, and Gold Section 205, Row D upward at La Perle for the best seat without worry of getting splashed. Other noteworthy mentions include the counter at Barrafina in DIFC, a balcony spot at Time Out Market for free views of the Dubai Fountain, and the intimate setting of Tezukuri, known as the smallest speakeasy in the UAE.
In Abu Dhabi, prime seating can be found at establishments like Benihana, Third Place Café, and for those keen on open-air film experiences, the free screenings at Cinema Space,-Manarat Al Saadiyat offer unique charm. Don’t miss out on pre-flight pub staples at Todd English Market and Pub located in Zayed International Airport.
30 Years of The Laughter Factory
Diving into the local entertainment scene, The Laughter Factory—Dubai’s longest-running comedy club—is celebrating a significant milestone: 30 years of hilarity. Co-founder Gail Clough reminisces about a night when 500 guests turned up without prior bookings, alongside a memorable gig featuring a young Jack Whitehall in 2008, a performance he described as “like a deer in the headlights.” Clough also discusses the challenges faced during the pandemic that almost brought the club to its knees. Readers can discover highlights from the anniversary line-up featured within the issue.
Reviewed: Crunch in Jumeirah
This month we also explore Crunch, a restaurant founded by Mukhtar Kosbayev and Anastassiya Kosbayeva, whose culinary journeys have taken them through renowned establishments like Noma and Frantzén. Located in Wasl 51, the venue offers a casual yet chic menu with standout dishes such as the Neighbour’s Signature Dip and the Arab stracciatella with Uzbek tomatoes. Don’t skip the sticky date pudding—it’s a must-try! Expect to spend around Dhs500 for a meal for two, drinks included.
Business Lunch Recommendations
For those looking to host clients, we’ve pinpointed the best lunch spots across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. La Petite Maison is a reliable choice for a business meal, while Kata at Dubai Mall offers the added bonus of stunning views of the Dubai Fountain. Mosaic in Abu Dhabi, recently awarded Favourite Business Lunch at the dubai-lifestyle.ae Abu Dhabi Awards 2026, delivers Lebanese cuisine that strikes the perfect balance between authenticity and flair. Other recommendations include Jun’s, The Guild, Novikov, CÉ LA VI—winner of Best Business Lunch at the dubai-lifestyle.ae Dubai Awards 2026, and Shang Palace.
New Additions in JLT
The Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) area continues to enhance its culinary landscape with exciting newcomers. This month, we introduce Mama B, which offers a unique take on Taiwanese cuisine, and Ca Phin Vietnamese Café, recognized as the UAE’s first dedicated Vietnamese specialty coffee house. Also noteworthy is Shiogensui, the first overseas venture of Hiroshi Takahashi’s renowned Osaka ramen institution. Upcoming options include Napoletano Pizza for Neapolitan fare, Greek-inspired dishes at The Mad Greeks, and Noren—an all-day Japanese concept from the former Managing Director of Zuma in the Middle East.
Cultural Highlights: Falcons and Forts
In a dedicated cultural segment, we take readers behind the scenes at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital—the first public facility dedicated to falcons worldwide. Here, visitors can witness feather repairs and talon pedicures, alongside insights into the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Program. Our six-page culture special also highlights UAE landmarks worth exploring, from touching a lunar meteorite at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi to experiencing history at the Etihad Museum and stepping inside the UAE’s oldest building at Qasr Al Hosn.
MEFCC Returns to Abu Dhabi
The Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC), the premier pop culture festival in the region, returns to the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from September 11 to 13. After a postponement from its original April dates, attendees can look forward to three days packed with cosplay, celebrity appearances, and a diverse array of programming across film, TV, gaming, and comics.
Staycation Spotlight: Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort
Finally, we take a closer look at the Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort in Ras Al Khaimah, which promises a family-friendly escape without compromise. Boasting what’s claimed to be the longest pool in the Northern Emirates, along with a well-managed kids’ club and an impressive dining experience at Waka, the resort has earned its praise as a vacation destination that caters to all.
This September, whether it’s a scenic rail trip, an exclusive restaurant reservation, or a family getaway, we invite you to explore the vibrant offerings highlighted in this issue. Dive into the latest edition of dubai-lifestyle.ae for your essential guide to living well in the UAE.