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Dubai Crown Prince’s Mumbai restaurant visit sends social media into a frenzy

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3 months ago

April 10, 2025

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Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, gave followers a glimpse of his India trip with a surprise stop at one of Mumbai’s most popular restaurants.

As part of his two-day visit to India, Sheikh Hamdan shared Instagram Stories featuring the vintage interiors of Pali Bhavan, a fine-dining destination nestled in the lively neighbourhood of Bandra West.

The restaurant at Pali Mala Road has often been described as “the pinnacle of Indian fine dining”. It’s known not only for its authentic regional Indian cuisine but also for its old-world charm, regal atmosphere, and rich cultural decor.

The restaurant’s interiors exude old-world charm, adorned with vintage photographs of Rajasthani maharajahs, elegant wooden shutters, and delicate crystal chandeliers that cast a warm glow throughout the space

Shortly after the royal visit, the restaurant took to Instagram to express its surprise and gratitude, resharing the same video posted by Sheikh Hamdan.

“Since the pandemic, I’ve been spending more time in Dubai; it’s become home for us in many ways,” read the heartfelt message from restaurateur Mishali Sanghani, who owns Pali Bhavan along with its sister cafe.

“Sheikh Hamdan has always been a legend… I’m not someone who’s easily starstruck, but I can honestly say, there’s hardly anyone whose visit would’ve meant more. Thank you, Fazza.”

Food bloggers and patrons frequently praise Pali Bhavan not just for its ambiance but also for its standout menu. Popular dishes include butter chicken, galouti kebab, tandoori broccoli, gunpowder calamari, paan kulfi, and their local fusion favourite, avocado bhel.

The Crown Prince’s visit has further spotlighted the restaurant, with fans and foodies on social media applauding his choice and love for local experiences. It’s yet another moment that reflects Sheikh Hamdan’s genuine appreciation for culture, heritage, and good food.

Some of the popular dishes at Pali Bhavan include:

Butter Chicken: A classic North Indian dish known for its creamy tomato-based gravy.
Dal Makhani: Simmered black lentils finished with churned butter and cream.
Galouti Kebab: Delicate minced meat kebabs that melt in the mouth
Pani Puri: A beloved street food snack featuring crisp puris filled with spicy water.
Vada Pav: Miniature versions of Mumbai’s favourite street snack.
(Source: Instagram)

Related Topics:bandra Dubai dubaicrownprince fazza India Mumbai palibhavan reastaurant sheikhhamdan

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

News

Abu Dhabi streets come alive with lights to celebrate Hijri New Year

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58 mins ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi is welcoming the Hijri year 1447 in spectacular style, with illuminated decorations and vibrant art installations now adorning the city’s Corniche and bridges.

The initiative, led by the Department of Municipalities and Transport through Abu Dhabi City Municipality, is designed to reflect the spiritual essence and cultural beauty of the Islamic New Year, while adding to the emirate’s urban charm.

A Blend of Faith, Heritage and Art

The glowing displays feature intricate designs inspired by Islamic architecture, nature, and Emirati heritage, with the phrase “Hijri Year 1447” etched across many pieces. Using a stunning mix of golden yellow, white, pistachio, and sky blue hues, the decorations bring a festive and spiritual energy to the cityscape.

At the Abu Dhabi Corniche, visitors will find illuminated curtains suspended between lampposts, blending Eid Al Adha and Hijri New Year motifs in a celebration of light, colour, and joy.

Designed with Safety & Sustainability in Mind

All installations use energy-efficient LED lights and weather-resistant materials to ensure both durability and safety. Each piece has been strategically placed to match the layout of streets and walkways, making the city’s celebration beautiful and secure for pedestrians and drivers alike.

So whether you’re strolling the Corniche or driving through the city, take a moment to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s glowing tribute to the start of the Islamic calendar year, a celebration of faith, tradition, and forward-looking beauty.

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Dubai announces free parking and public transport for Hijri New Year holiday

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1 hour ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Heads up, Dubai residents. In celebration of the Hijri New Year, all public parking in Dubai will be free on Friday, June 27, except for multi-level parking terminals. Regular parking fees will resume on Saturday, June 28, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced.

Public Transport Hours – Friday, June 27

Dubai Metro: 5am (June 27) to 1am (June 28)
Dubai Tram: 6am (June 27) to 1am (June 28)

RTA Service Centres

Closed: All RTA Customer Happiness Centres and service provider centres
Open: Smart Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Deira, Al Barsha, and RTA Head Office (available 24/7)

Vehicle Testing

No technical testing on Friday, services resume Saturday, June 28.

For the latest updates on bus and marine transport schedules, commuters are encouraged to check the RTA or S’hail app.

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UAE–Pakistan Travel: New agreement allows visa-free travel for select citizens

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2 hours ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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In a move set to deepen long-standing ties, the UAE and Pakistan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for mutual visa exemption, allowing diplomatic and official passport holders of both countries to travel without entry visas. The agreement is expected to streamline travel and strengthen people-to-people connections between the two nations.

The visa exemption MoU was signed during the 12th session of the UAE–Pakistan Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), held in Abu Dhabi, and attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Agreements Beyond Visas

The high-level meeting saw the signing of several key MoUs, including:

A joint task force to promote UAE investments in Pakistan’s strategic sectors
An MoU on cooperation in artificial intelligence and the digital economy

These were signed by Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and senior Pakistani officials, including Tariq Bajwa, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Zarar Hashim Khan, Federal Secretary at Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications.

A Trusted and Historic Partnership

The UAE and Pakistan reviewed cooperation across trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, and technology during the session.

Speaking at the event, Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, who led the UAE delegation, described Pakistan as a long-standing and trusted partner, highlighting diplomatic ties dating back to 1971.

“This partnership is built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for the future,” Al Sayegh said, noting that non-oil trade exceeded $8.6 billion in 2024.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing bilateral relations and ensuring prosperity, stability, and development for future generations.