Dubai is gearing up for a major lifestyle upgrade as Dubai Municipality unveils plans to open 35 new parks across the city in 2026, bringing nature closer to residents than ever before.

Backed by an investment of Dh348 million, the upcoming projects will introduce approximately 340,000 square metres of lush green space spread across 23 residential communities. The move is part of the ambitious Dubai Urban Plan 2040, designed to reshape the city into a more sustainable and people-friendly environment.

What makes this initiative stand out? Accessibility. Officials say the park locations have been carefully chosen so that most residents can enjoy a refreshing green escape within just a five-minute walk from their homes.

Beyond aesthetics, the expansion reflects Dubai’s broader push to enhance quality of life and support environmental sustainability. With more shaded spaces, recreational areas, and greenery, the city is steadily transforming into an urban oasis.

As Dubai continues to grow, these parks could soon become the heart of everyday life, offering a perfect balance between modern living and natural serenity.

Several churches and places of worship across Dubai have announced temporary closures and suspension of in-person services starting April 3, following official directives prioritising public safety.

The move comes just ahead of important religious observances, including Easter services and Orthodox Palm Sunday on April 5.

Churches shift to online services

Prominent churches such as St. Thomas Orthodox Cathedral confirmed that all services will be held online in compliance with “strict instructions issued by UAE authorities.”

Similarly, St. Mary’s Catholic Church announced the closure of its premises to visitors while continuing to livestream select services, including Friday prayers.

The Mar Thoma Parish also stated that all “Passion Week” services will be conducted virtually.

However, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church confirmed that all masses are cancelled entirely, with no online streaming, urging parishioners to avoid visiting church grounds.

Meanwhile, St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church suspended all services and activities, including its Friday liturgy, as a precautionary step.

Temples and Gurudwara follow suit

Beyond churches, other major religious centres, including the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara and the Hindu temple in Dubai, have also announced closures until further notice, citing safety and security directives.

Community safety takes priority

Religious leaders across Dubai have emphasised that these measures are temporary but necessary, urging worshippers to follow official guidelines and avoid gatherings during this period.

While physical services are paused, many institutions are ensuring spiritual continuity through digital platforms, encouraging the community to stay connected remotely.

UAE motorists should prepare for temporary disruptions as infrastructure works for the Etihad Rail project continue.

Authorities have announced that the exit from Maleha Road towards Emirates Road will be closed every weekend starting from 11pm on Saturday, April 4, until 5am on Monday, June 1. The closure is part of ongoing construction efforts tied to the UAE’s ambitious national railway network.

Drivers who frequently use this route are advised to plan and consider alternative roads to avoid delays, especially during late-night and early-morning hours.

The Etihad Rail project is set to transform transportation across the UAE by linking major cities, industrial zones, and ports. In the future, it will also connect the country to other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, strengthening regional mobility and trade.

In a recent emergency response, Etihad Rail operated special passenger services to help residents and citizens travel when flights were suspended due to regional airspace closures. This demonstrated the railway’s potential as a reliable alternative transport option during crises.