Hospitality
MARRIOTT RESORT PALM JUMEIRAH LAUNCHES ‘PAWFECT STAY ON THE PALM’
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai is extending a warm welcome to four-legged guests with the launch of ‘Pawfect Stay on the Palm’, a thoughtfully curated pet-friendly staycation package. The new offering coincides with the unveiling of the resort’s 14 newly added Palm Seaview Rooms with Terrace, boasting an expansive outdoor entertaining and sun basking area.
The resort has also announced exclusive collaborations with two prominent homegrown UAE pet brands, Furchild Pet Nutrition and Pet World UAE. These partnerships aim to enhance the stay for pet owners by providing them with exclusive access to offers and discounts on high-quality, locally trusted food and pet accessories throughout their visit.
Located on the second floor, these new rooms blend stylish design with outdoor access, making them the ideal base for guests travelling with pets. Their introduction enables the resort to officially become the first five-star property on Palm West Beach to welcome pets, reinforcing Marriott’s guest-first philosophy.
From the moment of arrival, pets are made to feel like VIPs. A special welcome at check-in includes tailored treats, a welcome letter, and an in-room pack featuring a pet bed along with food and water bowls and branded “Pet in Room” door hanger for use during their stay and take home goodies – chew toy and a walking map. The experience continues with a pet-inclusive breakfast, and a choice of lunch, or dinner that can be enjoyed either in-room or at MYAMI. Dining outlets Myami and Bal Harbour Beach now offer dedicated pet menus and shaded seating, while the Fountain Area provides a relaxed space for downtime.
A highlight of the stay for many guests is access to the Promenade along Palm West Beach, a scenic, pet-friendly stretch perfect for early morning walks, sunset strolls, or simply soaking in the beachfront atmosphere. Widely considered one of Dubai’s best walking spots for dogs, it’s just steps from the resort and easily accessible from the pet-friendly rooms.
“Guests told us what they wanted, and so we created it,” said Gerrit Schmitt, General Manager, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah. “The addition of pet-friendly stays reflects our commitment to evolving with our guests and delivering meaningful moments of connection. We’re proud to be the first five-star resort on Palm West Beach to open our doors to pets. It’s a natural next step in creating personalised experiences that we hope guests and their furry friends will treasure forever.”
To celebrate and champion this new chapter of hospitality within the local pet community, the resort has teamed up with two of the UAE’s foremost homegrown pet brands. This means every guest bringing their pets can enjoy special offers and discounts from Furchild Pet Nutrition, the UAE’s first and leading fresh and raw pet food company, and Pet World UAE, a premium retailer offering a wide variety of pet products and accessories. These partnerships ensure all pet parents can avail the highest quality, locally trusted food and supplies throughout their stay at the resort, while the canine and feline guests are truly treated like royalty, creating a true home-away-from-home experience, whether they choose the package or simply enjoy the resort’s pet-friendly amenities.
With pet-friendly stays still rare in the UAE’s premium hospitality space, this offering meets a growing demand among local residents for accessible, high-quality getaways that welcome every member of the pack.
Pet policy includes:
- Pet-friendly stays are available only in Palm Seaview Rooms with Terrace
- Up to two pets (dogs or cats only) per room, maximum 25kg each
- AED 300 non-refundable fee per room, per night applies
- Pets may transit through guest lifts, the second-floor hallway, and the lobby, but should not linger in these areas
- Designated pet-friendly areas include Myami, Bal Harbour Beach, the Fountain Area, and the Promenade (map provided in-room)
The ‘Pawfect Stay on the Palm’ package is available exclusively via marriottresortpalmjumeirah.com and includes premium pet amenities, curated in-room dining, and other exciting pet-friendly perks.
Hospitality
The Best Festive Turkey Takeaways in Abu Dhabi This Christmas
Christmas dinner without the hours in the kitchen? Yes, please! From perfectly roasted turkeys with all the traditional trimmings to indulgent festive sides and delicious desserts, some of Abu Dhabi’s finest hotels and restaurants are taking care of the cooking this Christmas. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or planning a cosy celebration at home, these festive turkey takeaway offers make it easy to serve up a memorable Christmas feast without the fuss. Here’s our pick of the best turkey takeaways in Abu Dhabi for Christmas 2026.
Hawksbill Restaurant Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring Christmas home with Hawksbill Restaurant’s Festive Turkey Takeaway, freshly prepared for an easy festive gathering around the table. Whether planning Christmas lunch with the family, hosting friends over the festive period, or simply leaving the cooking to someone else this year, the takeaway brings together everything needed for a classic Christmas feast.
A whole roast turkey comes with a selection of traditional seasonal sides and all the trimmings, ready to collect and serve at home.
Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8). AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required.
When: Saturday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31st December 2026, 12pm – 11pm
For more info, call +971 56 660 8780 or email fnb.sbgc@viyagolf.com
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Festive Turkey Takeaway
Bring The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal to the Christmas table with a festive turkey prepared by the hotel’s culinary team and ready to enjoy at home. The whole roasted turkey comes with traditional stuffing, rich gravy, and roasted root vegetables, leaving more time to spend around the table with family and friends.
Available from Monday, 21 December 2026, to Saturday, 2 January 2027, orders should be placed at least 48 hours in advance.
Price: AED 750 per turkey hamper (serves 6 to 8)
When: Monday, 21 December 2026, to Sunday, 2 January 2027. Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance
For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com
Villa Sèléne Festive Turkey Takeaway

Take care of Christmas lunch with Villa Sèléne at Yas Links Abu Dhabi’s Festive Turkey Takeaway. Prepared by the culinary team and ready for collection, the whole roast turkey comes with a selection of classic festive sides and accompaniments, leaving little more to do than gather family and friends around the table and enjoy it together.
Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8); AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required
When: Saturday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31 December 2026, 12pm – 11pm
For more info, call +971 54 990 4246 or email villa.selene@viyagolf.com
Roots Bar & Kitchen Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring the festive feast home with Roots Bar & Kitchen’s Festive Turkey Takeaway, made for Christmas gatherings with family and friends. Serving approximately six to eight guests, the package includes a generous 5-6 kg whole roast turkey, freshly prepared and ready for collection, alongside all the classic trimmings.
The turkey comes with chestnut stuffing, seasonal vegetables, roasted carrots and potatoes, cranberry sauce, and turkey gravy for a traditional Christmas spread at home. For a little extra around the table, additional sides can be added to the order, including herb and bread stuffing, bread sauce, mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and more.
Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8); AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance
When: Monday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31 December 2026, 12pm – 10pm
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com
InterContinental Abu Dhabi Festive Turkey Takeaway
Take the stress out of Christmas entertaining with a traditional festive turkey, freshly prepared by the culinary team at InterContinental Abu Dhabi. Available to order from either the hotel or residences, the generous whole roasted turkey (5–7kg) comes with all the classic accompaniments, including traditional bread stuffing, roasted baby potatoes, buttered seasonal vegetables, rich turkey gravy, and cranberry sauce. For a sweet finish, guests can add a pumpkin cheesecake, apple cinnamon pie or pecan and caramel tart, each serving approximately five to six people.
Price: AED 550 per whole roasted turkey (5–7kg) and accompaniments; optional desserts: Pumpkin Cheesecake AED 200, Apple Cinnamon Pie AED 180, Pecan & Caramel Tart AED 230. Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance.
When: Thursday, 26 November 2026, to Friday, 25 December 2026.
For InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel turkey takeaways, order and collect from Piano Lounge; for InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi turkey takeaways, order and collect from Bistro 81. For more information or bookings call Piano Lounge +971 56 409 4980 or Bistro 81 +971 50 391 5271
Hospitality
Qatar Airways Connects Doha to Caracas, Venezuela, and Bogotá, Colombia with First Flight
Qatar Airways has inaugurated its new twice-weekly service connecting Doha with Caracas and Bogotá. The service represents a significant milestone for the airline, as Qatar Airways becomes the first Gulf carrier to serve Venezuela, and the first airline to operate nonstop services from the Middle East to both Bogotá and Caracas.
The new route underscores the airline’s commitment to strengthening global connectivity for the region and is operated on Boeing 777-200LR aircraft.
Qatar Airways flights to Caracas (CCS) and Bogotá (BOG)
Qatar Airways’ flight schedule has been designed to provide smooth onward connections through Hamad International Airport to key markets including Australia, China, Japan, Lebanon, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. This offers passengers greater flexibility and seamless transfer options across Qatar Airways’ global network of over 170 destinations.
Departing every Wednesday and Sunday:
Doha (DOH) to Bogotá (BOG) – Flight QR783: Departure 07:35; Arrival 16:25
Bogotá (BOG) to Caracas (CCS) – Flight QR783: Departure 17:55; Arrival 21:00
Caracas (CCS) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR783: Departure 23:30; Arrival 20:35
The addition of Caracas and Bogotá marks the 16th and 17th destinations in the Americas served by Qatar Airways. The airline began serving South America in 2010 with its inaugural flight to Brazil’s São Paulo.
The airline has recently expanded its partnership with LATAM to include LATAM Airlines Colombia, offering travellers greater access to the region. Qatar Airways will place its code on LATAM-operated flights between Bogotá and key domestic destinations including Cartagena, Armenia, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Cali, Cúcuta, Ibagué, Leticia, Medellín, Montería, Neiva, Pereira, Pasto, Riohacha, San Andrés Island, Santa Marta, and Yopal.
Qatar Airways continues to strengthen global connectivity, serving more than 170 destinations this winter. Bookings can be made at qatarairways.com or through the airline’s mobile app.
Hospitality
GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: THE BEST FESTIVE ACTIVITIES IN ABU DHABI
Christmas is coming, and Abu Dhabi is getting ready to celebrate! From magical Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies and a charming festive market to gingerbread house decorating, breakfast with Santa, and an indulgent festive afternoon tea, there’s plenty to look forward to this December. Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a festive afternoon with friends or simply looking to soak up a little Christmas cheer, here are some of the best festive activities to add to your calendar this season.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Christmas celebrations begin at InterContinental Abu Dhabi on 9 December with the hotel’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bringing families and friends together for a festive waterfront evening, this much-loved tradition sets the scene for the celebrations ahead.
When: Wednesday, 9 December 2026, 5:30pm
Price: Complimentary
Where: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu Dhabi
Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive Buffet at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club
Celebrate the start of the festive season with the Christmas Tree Lighting at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, bringing family and friends together for a warm evening of Christmas cheer. Watch as the tree lights up for the season while enjoying a festive buffet, festive fun with Santa and a lively atmosphere made for all ages.
With plenty of time to dine, celebrate, and soak up the festivities, it’s an easy way to get into the Christmas spirit and enjoy a little seasonal magic with the whole family.
When: Friday, 11 December 2026, 7pm – 10pm
Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 5 to 12 years). Free for kids under 5.
Where: Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island
Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive BBQ Buffet at Yas Links Abu Dhabi

The festive season begins on the lawn at Yas Links Abu Dhabi, as the Christmas tree lights up for an evening with family and friends. A BBQ buffet sets the table for the celebrations, accompanied by festive entertainment and activities for younger guests. With the lawns of Yas Links as the backdrop, it’s a relaxed evening of good food, Christmas cheer, and time spent together.
When: Friday, 18 December 2026, 7pm – 10pm
Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); Free (kids under 6 years). Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required
Where: Yas Links Abu Dhabi Lawn, Yas Links, Yas Island
Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive Buffet at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
Christmas celebrations begin at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, bringing family and friends together for an evening outdoors. Guests can gather for the official lighting of the tree before enjoying a festive buffet, Christmas music, and seasonal entertainment.
Younger guests can look forward to dedicated activities throughout the evening, while families and friends have plenty of time to catch up over dinner. A much-loved annual tradition, the Christmas tree lighting marks the start of the festive calendar at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.
When: Saturday, 19 December 2026, from 7pm
Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); Free (kids under 6 years)
Where: Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Lobby, Saadiyat Island
For more info, call +971 56 660 8780 or email fnb.sbgc@viyagolf.com
Festive Market by the Marina
This festive season, the Marina Garden at InterContinental Abu Dhabi transforms into a charming Christmas market over two consecutive weekends, bringing a little festive magic to the waterfront. Wander between stalls filled with Christmas gifts, handmade crafts and festive treats; pick up something special from local vendors; or enjoy a glass of mulled wine and seasonal favourites as live acoustic music sets the mood. With twinkling lights, festive flavours and plenty for all ages to enjoy, it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon or evening by the marina with family and friends.
When: Friday, 11 December 2026, to Sunday, 13 December 2026, and Friday, 18 December 2026, to Sunday, 20 December 2026
Where: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu Dhabi
For more information, call +971 55 242 0542
Festive High Tea at Alba
Set beneath the soaring ceilings of the lobby lounge, Alba’s Festive High Tea adds a festive flourish to the hotel’s signature afternoon ritual. Delicate savoury and sweet treats are served alongside each guest’s preferred tea blend, with seasonal aromas adding to the occasion. An afternoon designed for conversation, celebration, and the pleasure of sharing something special in the days leading up to Christmas.
When: Available daily from Tuesday, 15 December 2026, to Wednesday, 6 January 2027, 2pm – 5pm
Price: AED 190 per stand
Where: Alba, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com
Gingerbread House Decorating at Giornotte
Young guests can put their creativity to work at Giornotte with a Christmas activity made for little hands. Guided by the hotel’s pastry chefs, children will decorate their own gingerbread houses with candy canes, cookies and marshmallows before taking their creation home – a cherished festive tradition given their own creative touch.
Gingerbread House Decorating: AED 200 per gingerbread house. Available daily from Tuesday, 15 December 2026, to Tuesday, 5 January 2027, excluding Friday, 25 and Thursday, 31 December 2026. Advance booking is required.
For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com
Breakfast with Santa


Start the festive celebrations with a family breakfast at Acres Grill House, complete with a special visit from Santa. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet with a selection of beverages before little ones get the chance to meet Santa and stop for a Christmas photo together.
Music and live entertainment will set the mood throughout the morning, while dedicated children’s activities offer plenty to keep younger guests busy. Made for the whole family to enjoy, it’s an easy way to spend a December morning together as Christmas Day draws closer.
FACT BOX:
What: Breakfast with Santa
Offer: AED 99 per adult; AED 60 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); free (kids under 6 years).
When: Sunday, 20 December, 9am to 12pm
Where: Roots Bar & Kitchen, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com
Gingerbread House Workshop

Little ones can get creative this Christmas with a festive Gingerbread House Workshop at Grill House, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club. Each child will receive their own gingerbread house to decorate with icing, sprinkles and plenty of imagination, while hot chocolate, festive cookies, Christmas music and a little festive cheer from Santa add to the occasion. Designed as a fun afternoon for the whole family, the workshop gives children the chance to create their very own festive masterpiece and enjoy a little Christmas magic along the way.
FACT BOX:
What: Gingerbread House Workshop
Offer: AED 120 per child. Pre payment and pre booking is required.
When: Sunday, 13th December, 3pm to 5pm
Where: Acres Grill House, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com
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