The Sandy Times

Vinyls And Stories Behind Them

Speaking with vinyl collectors who share the story behind the most meaningful record in their collection

by Barbara Yakimchuk

18 Jul 2025

Vinyl: Not Just an Accessory, But a Culture

The vinyl comeback: what is behind its mystery and revival — told through the personal story of Kito Jempere

by Barbara Yakimchuk

4 Jul 2025

Dubai

To Make Local Stories Go Global. Inside Digital Renaissance Music Institute

What makes this school unique, and what every creative mind can learn there

by Alexandra Mansilla

2 Jul 2025

Watches

Is There a Link Between Music And Watches? We Have Proof

Audemars Piguet teamed up with Mark Ronson and RAYE and released a track for their 150th anniversary

by Alexandra Mansilla

30 Jun 2025

5 Music Styles To Uncover This Summer

Balearic House, Downtempo, Ambient House, Reggae, Jazzy House — what are they and how do they sound? Let’s break it down.

by Barbara Yakimchuk

19 Jun 2025

Dubai

Have You Heard? Dubai’s New Creative Institute Is Almost Here

Everyone should be at the opening — it is going to shake up the creative industry

by Alexandra Mansilla

2 Jun 2025

HAMEX: From a Small Town In Iran To Millions Of Listeners Around the World

The story of Iranian pop star HAMEX: his childhood, music journey, unique style, and big plans

by Barbara Yakimchuk

31 May 2025

Art

UAE Cultural Digest: June 2025

Top cultural, art, and music events this month — the ones you simply can't miss

by Barbara Yakimchuk

28 May 2025

Can Music Really Make You More Productive?

Does music affect your focus — or fuel it? Let’s find out. Bonus: top playlists for work & workouts

by Barbara Yakimchuk

23 May 2025

ALAY: 'I Hope We Reach a Point Where DJs Aren’t Labelled By Gender'

Just five years ago, ALAY wasn’t even a DJ, and now she is being called one of electronic music’s rising stars

by Alexandra Mansilla

22 May 2025

Parties

Where To Party In Cairo? Here Is What Locals Say

Cairo’s creative pulse — here is where it beats loudest

by Alexandra Mansilla

18 May 2025

Dubai

The Summit Strikes Back: IMS Dubai Returns This November

It is time to plan the best weekend of November now

by Dara Morgan

14 May 2025

Technologies

What Makes Good Sound And What Does It Really Depend On? Let’s Dive In

The founder of Tonefarm, the first UAE-based sound system manufacturer, explains it

by Alexandra Mansilla

13 May 2025

8 Arabic Podcasts To Listen To: From Business To Psychology

Speak Arabic? Then these podcasts are a must — covering everything from comedy to tech and culture

by Barbara Yakimchuk

12 May 2025

Italo Sound Comes To Dubai. Interview With Otto Kraanen, Bordello A Parigi

Looks like the city is about to have one of its most unforgettable nights yet

by Alexandra Mansilla

4 May 2025

Events

OFFLIMITS: How It Went Down (And WHAT Just Happened?)

It was so epic, we just want to rewind time and live it all over again

by Alexandra Mansilla

29 Apr 2025

Events

DJing Workshops Start In Dubai — Guess Who Is Running Them?

Lessons by a DJ who is truly passionate about what they do

by Alexandra Mansilla

22 Apr 2025

Sport

Boost Your Workout: Your Go-To Playlist For Running And Cycling

Running or cycling? Only with these tracks

by Barbara Yakimchuk

21 Apr 2025

Lifestyle

New On STR: Two Podcasts To Listen To This Month

STR has recently launched two new podcasts — what to expect and why they are worth listening to

by Barbara Yakimchuk

9 Apr 2025