SM Ayaz Zakir ayaz@khaleejtimes.com SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.
UAE visa amnesty: Illegal residents make up for lost time with families as new year beginsHundreds of expats, who were burdened by overstaying fines, have found renewed hope and stability
New Year's Eve in UAE: Some residents camp overnight at Al Majaz Corniche to beat traffic Many residents are transforming their celebrations into a peaceful, memorable experience under the stars
Happy New Year! UAE welcomes 2025 with drones, fireworks, world records; as it happenedKhaleej Times captured the UAE’s New Year’s Eve action LIVE as it unfolded
UAE Lottery: 11 residents win Dh100,000 each in second draw; no grand prize winner yet According to the company’s website, the odds of winning the jackpot is approximately 1 in 8.8 million
From Harry Potter-themed vacations to Yash Raj movies: These travellers take inspiration from books, dramas to travel'Films and books have the power to shape the perceptions of a place in the minds of their audiences,' said one travel agent
'One team with my bees': How 14-year-old adds own touch to 70-year family legacyAbdullah Hamad Al Kaabi proudly showcased his collection at the 9th edition of the Hatta Honey Festival
UAE: This medical student blends honey with Arabic gumResidents can try a wide variety of the household staple at the Hatta Honey Festival, including a unique 'white honey'
UAE: What can couples do if pre-marital genetic screening test results are positive?If tests reveal shared genetic risks, some critical questions will arise: Would you marry the one you love? What are the alternatives?
UAE: Pre-marital genetic testing results to be declared in just 2 weeksThe genetic testing list includes 570 genes that cover over 840 medical conditions
UAE residents cut Umrah costs by up to 50% with Saudi Arabia's transit visa, stopover option Through this travel hack, a family of six was able to do the pilgrimage for Dh8,000 instead of Dh15,000