The Sandy Times

New On STR: Sikka Festival Music Is Now Streaming

The incredible performances from the Sikka Festival are now online: what to expect and where to find them

by Barbara Yakimchuk

26 Feb 2025

We Know What You Are Doing On February 22: Karak On the Dhow. Here Is Why

Art, music, conversations — all on a boat with the most creative crowd in town

by Alexandra Mansilla

20 Feb 2025

Heritage

Ramadan 2025 In Dubai: A First-Timer's Guide To Traditions, Iftars, And Cultural Etiquette

Experience the magic of Ramadan in Dubai, where culture, spirituality, and community come alive in vibrant celebration

by Iffat Nawaz

14 Feb 2025

Crowd Test Warm-Up: The Must-Listen Playlist Before the Party

The music selection of the DJs playing at Helipad — their top gems, perfect to play before the big night of dance

by Barbara Yakimchuk

13 Feb 2025

Dubainnovation: TIME100 AI Impact Awards 2025

A celebration of innovation at Dubai’s Museum of the Future

by Sophie She

12 Feb 2025

Festivals

Travel And Dance: Music Festivals To Attend In 2025

Groove globally! Top music festivals in Europe, Asia, the US, and more

by Iffat Nawaz

5 Feb 2025

Crowd Test Is Back: Who Is Taking the Stage?

Before you even click — spoiler: every single one of them is a legend

by Alexandra Mansilla

5 Feb 2025

People

Karak On the Dhow, Second Edition: What Makes It Special

THE KARAK promised to bring the cruise back — and they kept their word

by Alexandra Mansilla

5 Feb 2025

Abu Dhabi

UAE Cultural Digest: February 2025

Diving into the details of February’s best art and music events

by Barbara Yakimchuk

1 Feb 2025

House 196 At Sikka: Anatomy Of Vulnerability

Let's walk through each room of the House and explore how artists navigate vulnerability

by Alexandra Mansilla

31 Jan 2025

In-Store Sessions At Flipside: Why They Matter And How They Work

Why record stores are community hubs for music lovers and how they work in Dubai

by Barbara Yakimchuk

31 Jan 2025

Weekend Plans: Events In the UAE On the First Weekend Of February

From celebration of the Emirate's heritage to vibing with the Georgian band

by Dara Morgan

30 Jan 2025

Exploring Healing And Memory Through Wool: 'Shroud Is a Cloth' By Adrian Pepe

Head to the exhibition to see how Adrian gives the wool a voice and lets it tell its story

by Alexandra Mansilla

29 Jan 2025

Interview

Exploring Artists' Vulnerability At Sikka. Interview With Ahmad Makary

What is happening in House 196, and why is it dedicated to vulnerability?

by Alexandra Mansilla

28 Jan 2025

Fashion

Inside Dubai Shopping Festival. How Does It Pull Off Millions Of Visitors?

And why was this 30th-anniversary edition special this year?

by Alexandra Mansilla

27 Jan 2025

Discover What Awaits At the Sikka Art And Design Festival

A festival where art meets design, music, and yes — saffron!

by Dara Morgan

25 Jan 2025

Parties

Crowd Test Is Back. See You At Helipad Dubai

Mark your calendars: February 15 is your date with art, music, and vibes as high as the Dubai skyline

by Dara Morgan

23 Jan 2025

Top Events in Abu Dhabi Today: What is Happening Right Now?

January 2025 is packed with an exciting lineup of festivals and events. Here is a sneak peek at what’s in store

by Iffat Nawaz

18 Jan 2025

Ultimate Guide To Dubai’s Upcoming Events: What To Look Forward To This Weekend

Get ready for a weekend of non-stop entertainment in Dubai

by Iffat Nawaz

17 Jan 2025