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Top Tips For Navigating Dubai’s International City
Dubai’s International City is a vibrant residential community known for its globally themed clusters (from China to Persia and beyond). While its multicultural atmosphere is a draw, newcomers may find that getting around this sprawling area poses some challenges. The neighborhood is somewhat removed from central Dubai and does not have a metro station of its own, relying mainly on buses to connect to nearby stations. Add to that a bustling mix of residents and businesses, and you have heavy traffic during rush hours in and around the area. The good news is that with a bit of planning and the right mode of transport, you can navigate International City smoothly and efficiently. Below are the top tips – from why many choose to utilize the Dubai Metro for efficient travel. rent a car International City offers, to timing your trips and mastering parking – that will help make your travels hassle-free.

Car Rental for Maximum Convenience

One of the best decisions for navigating International City is to take advantage of the Dubai Metro. rent a car for the duration of your stay, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with local transportation options. Public transport options exist (several RTA bus routes serve the area), but relying on buses alone can be time-consuming and restrictive in this far-flung part of Dubai. Taxis and ride-hailing are available too, but costs add up quickly if you’re making frequent trips. By contrast, having your own vehicle gives you freedom and flexibility to come and go as you please, without being tied to bus schedules or surge-priced taxi fares. In fact, renting a car in International City can often be more cost-effective than other modes if you plan to stay for a while, consider using public transportation for easier access. The competitive market means there are many rent a car International City agencies offering a range of vehicles at budget-friendly rates.

With a rental car, you can fully explore what International City and its surroundings have to offer. The area is divided into clusters themed after different countries, and having your own wheels makes it easy to hop between these diverse zones. You could be tasting authentic Middle Eastern street food in the Persia Cluster one moment and shopping for unique goods in Dragon Mart (the massive Chinese-themed mall) the next, all while enjoying the convenience of the Dubai Metro. If something farther afield catches your interest – say, a quick drive to Global Village or other attractions – you’re not limited by the reach of public transit, which connects various areas of Dubai. Essentially, a car lets you navigate the city at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems in the community’s nooks and crannies.

Renting a car also adds a layer of comfort and safety to your travels. Dubai’s roads are well-built and signage is clear, but local drivers can be aggressive, so having the familiarity of your own vehicle can help you feel more secure. Most reputable rental companies provide well-maintained cars with insurance, giving peace of mind that you’re covered for any unforeseen incidents. If you’re a tourist, ensure you have the necessary paperwork in order – an International Driving Permit along with your home country license is required for visitors to drive in the UAE. Choose a reliable rental agency (there are plenty in and around International City) and pick a vehicle that suits your needs – for instance, a compact car for zipping around narrow streets or an SUV if you have a family or plan to venture beyond the city. With the right preparation, having a rental car will greatly simplify your navigation of International City and beyond.

Plan Around Peak Traffic and Know the Roads

Like the rest of Dubai, International City experiences predictable traffic patterns that you should plan around. Weekday rush hours (approximately 7:30–9:30 AM and 4:30–7:30 PM) see the main exits and surrounding roads become congested with commuters. If possible, schedule your outings outside these peak periods to avoid getting stuck in slow-moving traffic. Mid-morning, midday, or later in the evening tend to offer a smoother drive. Also be mindful of weekend traffic surges – for example, Fridays around noon can be busy near the mosques, and evenings can see crowds heading to Dragon Mart or nearby attractions.

Familiarize yourself with International City’s road network early on. The district is somewhat maze-like, composed of numerous identical-looking residential clusters arranged in a spoke-like pattern. Main arterial roads encircle and pass through the area – notably Al Awir Road (E44) and Emirates Road (E611) – which connect International City to other parts of Dubai. Using these major routes is usually the fastest way in or out of the community. Inside International City, expect many roundabouts and short connecting streets. Roundabouts are common traffic features here, so if you’re not used to them, remember the basic rule: yield to vehicles already in the circle, signal when you intend to exit, and enter/exit carefully. Driving defensively is wise – keep a safe distance, as some drivers may switch lanes or navigate roundabouts aggressively.

It’s highly recommended to use GPS navigation or map apps when driving in and around International City. Modern navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze, or the navigation devices some rental agencies provide) will help you find the best routes, especially with all the similar cluster entrances and roundabouts. These tools also update you on traffic jams or road work in real time, allowing you to reroute if needed. Before heading out, particularly for the first few times, check the map for your destination’s exact location – many places in International City are identified by cluster and building numbers, which can be confusing until you get the hang of it. A bit of route planning and navigation aid will save you time and prevent wrong turns in this sprawling neighborhood.

Master the Parking and Local Driving Etiquette

One aspect of navigating International City that many drivers talk about is parking. With a high density of residents, free parking spaces in the residential clusters can fill up quickly, especially near International City Dubai. after sundown when everyone is home. It’s not uncommon to find street parking scarce in the late evening – a fact to keep in mind if you’re returning home or to a hotel in the area. To avoid frustration, consider these parking tips:
- Use Paid Parking or Reserved Lots to ensure you have a spot when visiting areas of Dubai. In busy commercial sections (like around Dragon Mart or the central business area), opt for paid parking lots or multilevel garages. While free street parking is available, it may be limited and hotly contested. Paid facilities usually have more availability and are worth the small fee for the convenience.
- Know the Parking Zones and Rules: International City has a mix of public and private parking areas. Many residential clusters have gated lots for residents, while visitors should park in designated visitor spots or along the main roads. Pay attention to any signage about restricted zones or time-limited parking. Dubai authorities enforce parking regulations strictly – parking in non-designated areas or over sidewalks can lead to fines or towing. Always park within the marked spaces and adhere to any time limits.
- Time Your Parking: Just as with driving, timing matters for parking. Try to run errands or go shopping in off-peak hours. For example, doing grocery shopping on a weekday morning might make parking easier than during the packed early evening. If you must park during a busy time, budget a little extra time to find a spot. Patience is key – sometimes circling a bit or parking a short walk away might be necessary when visiting Downtown Dubai.
Tech can also assist in easing your parking experience. Dubai’s RTA offers mobile apps and an SMS service (mParking) that let you pay for public parking right from your phone. Some apps even show available parking spots near popular areas of Dubai. real-time parking availability and rates in certain areas, which can be a lifesaver when heading to a popular spot. Additionally, major shopping centers or dining areas might offer valet parking for a fee – a convenient option if you’re in a hurry or don’t want the hassle of finding a space on crowded days.

Finally, a few words on local driving etiquette and rules, which are integral to navigating anywhere in Dubai, including International City Dubai and Downtown Dubai. Always follow the traffic laws, especially when driving near Dubai Marina. and posted speed limits – internal roads in residential areas have low speed limits (typically 40 km/h) for safety, while the surrounding highways allow higher speeds. Dubai has zero tolerance for driving under the influence and hefty fines for violations like speeding, running red lights, or using a phone while driving. Roads are monitored by cameras, so it’s crucial to drive responsibly. Make it a habit to wear your seatbelt at all times (front and back seat) and use your indicators when changing lanes or taking exits on Sheikh Zayed Road. Showing courtesy to other drivers – for instance, giving way at roundabouts and not tailgating – will go a long way in ensuring a smooth journey on Sheikh Zayed Road. By respecting the rules and being alert, you’ll navigate International City’s roads safely and with confidence.

Navigating International City with Confidence

In summary, Dubai’s International City can be easily navigated if you come prepared with the right strategies. Securing a rental car gives you unrivaled convenience, allowing you to explore the area’s diverse clusters and beyond on your own schedule. With an eye on the clock to dodge peak traffic and the help of GPS to guide you through the web of roads, you’ll save time and avoid common pitfalls. Smart planning extends to parking as well – by knowing where and when to park (and leveraging Dubai’s handy parking apps), you’ll sidestep the usual parking headaches that locals talk about.

International City offers a unique slice of Dubai life, and it shouldn’t be daunting to get around. Whether you’re a resident commuting daily or a visitor eager to check out this eclectic community, following these tips will make your journeys smooth, safe, and efficient transportation options are available throughout the area.. With your own set of wheels and a bit of know-how, you can navigate International City with confidence – turning what could be a tricky travel experience into a straightforward drive through one of Dubai’s most distinctive neighborhoods.

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August 1, 2025
From Rawalpindi streets to Paris honour: Ali Akbar awarded Légion d’Honneur

Ali Akbar, a 72-year-old newspaper vendor from Rawalpindi, has been awarded the “Légion d’Honneur”, France’s highest civilian award. The award was presented to him by President Emmanuel Macron during a ceremony at the Élysée Palace. Akbar, who holds a French residence permit, hopes this recognition will support his long-delayed application for French citizenship.

For over fifty years, Akbar has been a familiar presence in the St.-Germain-des-Prés district of Paris. Recognised not only for selling newspapers but also for his signature cry of “Ça y est!”, his voice has echoed through cobbled streets as he made his daily rounds across cafés and boutiques.

Born in 1953 into a low-income household in Pakistan, Akbar left school at the age of 12 and took on a series of jobs before deciding to pursue a better future abroad.

In 1973, he arrived in Paris after a long journey that took him through Kabul, Tehran, and Athens.

He initially worked in restaurants and lived in difficult, often unstable conditions.

In 1974, he switched to selling newspapers on the street after observing an Argentine student doing the same. He began with satirical magazines such as “Charlie Hebdo” and “Hara-Kiri”, and later moved to major French dailies like “Le Monde” and “Les Echos”. The work provided modest earnings but gave him a sense of independence and connection to the city.

Akbar is known for using humour to engage passersby, sometimes inventing headlines to catch attention. Over the years, his clientele has included artists, psychotherapists, and fashion designers. He is a regular face at cafés like Flore, Lipp, and Fleurus, where he has built close relationships with customers and staff.

His daily path, which runs from noon to midnight, provides him with a modest living. On average, he earns about $70 each day. Despite being older now, he continues to work without a pension and seldom takes time off.

His motivation, he says, was shaped by his childhood in Rawalpindi, where he once lived in a cramped room with four siblings and relied on leftovers for food. His goal was always to provide his mother with a better life, which he eventually achieved by buying her a home with a garden.

August 1, 2025
Lancashire blames Pak-India fans clash for removal of man wearing Pakistani jersey

Lancashire County Cricket Club has blamed a clash between Pakistani and Indian fans for the removal of a man wearing Pakistan cricket jersey at Old Trafford during the final day of the England-India Test earlier this week.

The spectator, identified as Farooq Nazar, shared a video on social media showing security staff confronting him over his Pakistan cricket jersey. According to Nazar, a staff member from Lancashire asked him to cover his green Pakistan limited-overs shirt. When he refused, he was escorted out by police officers.

In an earlier statement, Lancashire said the fan was removed “due to unacceptable behaviour directed towards the stewarding team”, however, the incident sparked backlash online, prompting the club to conduct an internal review and apologise for “any upset and offence caused which was not intended”. Addressing the criticism, Lancashire clarified the removal was not because of the fan’s attire.

“Firstly, we wish to make it clear that there was no intention to remove the individual simply for wearing a Pakistan cricket shirt,” the club said in a statement. They further explained the context by referring to a prior incident during the match.

“The approach taken was informed by an incident on Saturday, during which a group of supporters waved a Pakistan national flag, leading to tensions with nearby Indian fans,” the statement read.

“In that case, our stewards were able to de-escalate the situation by respectfully asking the individuals to put the flag away, which they did without hesitation.”

“In light of this context, our team adopted a precautionary, safety-first approach on Sunday,” Lancashire further stated.

“A stand supervisor politely asked the individual to cover his shirt in the interest of his own safety and to avoid any potential escalation. Despite several courteous requests from the supervisor and the response team, the individual repeatedly declined to comply.”

August 1, 2025
Neelam Muneer gives witty reply to fan asking about husband’s business

Actress Neelam Muneer left fans in fits of laughter with her clever response to a fan curious about her husband Mohammad Rashid’s business in Dubai.

During a recent Q&A session on Instagram, Neelam invited her followers to ask questions about her personal and professional life. While many fans asked about her career, one curious follower asked, “What does Rasheed Bhai do?”

Neelam’s witty reply instantly stole the spotlight as she responded, “Mujhsy mohabbat” (Loves me). Her sense of humor was widely appreciated, and fans flooded the comments with praise and laughter.

Neelam Muneer tied the knot with Mohammad Rashid, who serves in the Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Dubai Police, in January this year. The couple got married in a private ceremony held in Dubai. Rashid originally hails from Mianwali, Pakistan, and has been living in Dubai since 2006.

The actress had kept her marriage under wraps for a while, but the internet erupted with excitement after her wedding pictures surfaced online. While speculation grew about her husband being a wealthy businessman, journalist Yasir Shami later clarified that Mohammad Rashid is not a billionaire.

According to Shami, Rashid has been working with Dubai CID for several years, and his monthly salary is around 13,000 dirhams, which equals approximately one million Pakistani rupees.

August 1, 2025
Gilgit declares emergency as floods hit Ghizer, Hunza

The government of Gilgit-Baltistan has declared a state of emergency in 37 areas following flash floods caused by cloudbursts that affected Ghizer, Hunza, and various other districts.

The Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) reported that flooding in the Khatam village of Ghizer’s Gupis Valley obstructed the Ghizer-Shandur Road and caused damage to private properties and agricultural land. In Gojal, upper Hunza, locals observed damage to an irrigation channel in Ghalapan village, which served over 50,000 forest trees with water.

The Home Department issued a notice designating multiple areas as disaster-affected. This list includes 12 areas in Diamer, nine in Gilgit, five in Ghizer, four each in Skardu and Shigar, two in Ghanche, and one each in Nagar and Kharmang. Notable villages mentioned are Parri Bangla, Danyor, Bagrote, Biarchi, Thoi, Kondus, Haldi, Botogah, Gushay Darel, Qaimabad, and Torghon valley, among others.

The notice indicated that due to heavy rainfall during the 2025 monsoon season, several villages had experienced losses, including human fatalities, livestock, homes, infrastructure, and crops. It added, “In the judgment of the Government, the circumstances demand action under the National Calamities (Prevention and Relief Act, 1958).”

Government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq said in a media briefing that 10 people, mostly tourists, have died in the recent floods. Four were injured. Between 10 and 15 tourists remain missing, and search operations are underway. He confirmed that 22 vehicles were swept away and over 500 houses have been damaged.

The government has set aside Rs440 million for emergency recovery efforts, which include the restoration of water, electricity, and road services. Relief supplies such as tents, blankets, kitchen kits, and food are being provided to families who have been displaced. The reconstruction of 509 homes is already underway.

The estimated total damages are reported to be around Rs20 billion. Gilgit-Baltistan has been one of the regions most severely affected by flooding this monsoon season, with recurring incidents attributed to cloudbursts and glacial lake outburst events.

August 1, 2025
Six security personnel injured in quadcopter attack on Bannu police station

At least six security personnel were injured in a quadcopter strike by militants on Bannu’s Miryan Police Station as a joint operation against terrorists continued in the Nurar area.

As per a police spokesperson, the attack took place when an intelligence-based operation by police officers, security personnel and commandos from the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) continued in the area. The operation was launched following intelligence reports suggesting the presence of “Fitna al-Khawarij” – the term used by authorities for the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

“During the aerial attack, a quadcopter dropped explosives on the police station, causing an explosion that left two army soldiers, three CTD personnel and one police constable injured,” the official said, adding that the injured were rushed to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Bannu.

Security forces have set up checkpoints while cordoning off the area as successful targeted raids and strikes on militant hideouts continue, the police official said.

It merits a mention that the operation was initiated after confirmation of presence of over 200 militants in the Miryan Police Station area spread panic. Armed TTP militants had taken to the streets, forcing shopkeepers to shut down businesses and leaving residents confined indoors, halting normal life.

“The timely and effective actions of law enforcement have forced the terrorists to flee the area,” the police official said, adding that operations were to continue till elimination of all militants.

Meanwhile, business activities in the area remained suspended and locals described the situation as “resembling a curfew”. Reports from the area said that loudspeakers in mosques were used early Thursday morning to warn residents to stay indoors and cooperate with the ongoing operation.

Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sajjad Khan also said that the area would be cleared of terrorists at all costs. He reaffirmed the police’s resolve to act firmly against anti-law elements and restore peace. He added that terrorists had suffered heavy losses during the operation.

RPO Khan also paid a visit to the hospital to check on the injured personnel and commended their courage.

August 1, 2025
CM Gandapur vows to expose India-sponsored terrorism after FATF debacle

A day after India submitted Chief Minister (CM) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Ali Amin Gandapur’s recent remarks regarding the alleged support of certain extremist groups by “institutions” to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) as evidence against Islamabad, he vowed to expose India’s role in sponsoring terrorism in the country.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Indian government has used the chief minister’s statement to back its allegations that Pakistan supports terrorist elements, officials of FATF confirmed.

The Indian submission specifically references Gandapur’s remarks made late in July following an All-Parties Conference (APC) in Peshawar, in which he alleged, “We arrest the Taliban, but our own institutions get them released, claiming they are their people.”

“Now they (Good Taliban) have come again. Please, these ‘Good Taliban’ are not acceptable and if you really want to keep them, give them uniforms, and send them to [Indian illegally occupied] Kashmir,” he had said.

The remarks, which elicited criticism in Pakistan, are now being used by New Delhi to request Islamabad’s re-inclusion on the FATF’s “increased monitoring” list, commonly known as the grey list.

Indian authorities have argued that the public admission by the chief minister shows that Pakistan’s institutions continue to aid and protect terrorist elements.

Media reports quoted the FATF officials as saying that New Delhi framed the statement as a formal “charge sheet” against Islamabad, especially underscoring KP as a region gravely affected by terrorism and militancy.

According to media reports, Gandapur, in a statement, said that India submitted his statement to the global anti-money laundering watchdog “out of context”.

“India has always been involved in terrorism in Pakistan and the region,” the Chief Minister said, noting that he was writing a letter to FATF to expose Indian actions in Kashmir.

He said the people and Pakistan’s forces were making unprecedented sacrifices to uproot terrorism from the country.

“My message to Modi [Indian prime minister] is that we are united to defend Pakistan,” Gandapur said, warning that India was attempting to get Pakistan grey-listed again by “constructing a false narrative.”

After being placed on FATF’s grey list in 2018, Pakistan was taken off the list in 2022.

August 1, 2025
Pakistan, Afghanistan, UAE tri-nation T20I series schedule revealed

The schedule for a T20 tri-nation series between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been officially announced.

The tournament will take place from August 29 to September 7 in Sharjah.

Each team will play the others twice in the round-robin stage, with the top two sides qualifying for the final.

The tournament will kick off on August 29 with the opening match between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan will then face UAE on August 30.

UAE and Afghanistan will clash on September 1, followed by another Pakistan vs Afghanistan encounter on September 2.

Pakistan will meet UAE again on September 4, and UAE will play their final group game against Afghanistan on September 5.

The final of the tri-nation series is scheduled for September 7.

August 1, 2025
Leonardo DiCaprio under fire for funding luxury hotel in Israel amid Gaza genocide

Hollywood superstar Leonardo DiCaprio is facing intense backlash for a media report that claimed that the actor is co-financing a luxury eco-hotel in Israel, even as the country continues its genocide in Gaza.

The Tel Aviv District Planning and Building Committee gave the $10 million project its final approval, according to Israeli media outlets such as Globes and The Jerusalem Post.

Designed by Rani Zeese Architects, the eco-certified Herzliya Marina Hotel will be 51,000 square meters, with 14 stories, 365 rooms, a central swimming pool, high-end restaurants, retail stores, and a conference center. DiCaprio, known globally for his environmental activism, is reported to hold a 10 percent stake in the development, which is being spearheaded by Israel’s Hagag Group alongside investors Ahikam and Lior Cohen.

The project was initially announced in 2018, with a significantly smaller scale: 180 suites in two six-story buildings but has since been dramatically expanded.

The timing of the announcement has triggered widespread outrage, with critics calling DiCaprio’s involvement deeply insensitive if not outright complicit as Israel’s ongoing genocide on Gaza approaches its 22nd month, leaving over 60,000 Palestinians dead and nearly two million displaced.

Writer and activist Shaun King was among the first to speak out, posting on X:

“While Gaza starves, Leonardo DiCaprio is building a 14-story luxury hotel in Israel.”

He went on to accuse the actor of “profiting from apartheid during a genocide” a sentiment echoed by thousands online.

Online users did not hold back. One post stated: “Built on the bones of children. Hotel Evil.”

Another called him a “climate hypocrite”, referencing the contradiction between his environmentalist persona and the optics of investing in a war-afflicted zone.

Another stated: “People starving to death a few miles from there. Stop the genocide!!!”

Another post on the X wrote: “ Leonardo Di Caprio is a sleazy, misogynistic, soulless, piece of shit. No shock to hear he’s building a luxury anything on the fresh blood of massacred Palestinians.”

The actor has not issued any public statement addressing the backlash. His long-standing connection to Israel is resurfacing. Questions concerning DiCaprio’s political ties were raised in 2014 after he was pictured with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a high-profile event organized by an Israeli businessman.

As public pressure mounts, DiCaprio joins a growing list of celebrities facing scrutiny over ties to Israel amid its ongoing actions in Gaza. For many, the timing of his financial move has rendered his role as a UN Peace Messenger deeply ironic.

August 1, 2025
Pakistan to face South Africa in WCL final after Aussies fall short by one run in thriller

South Africa Champions edged out Australia Champions by just one run in a thrilling second semifinal of the World Championship of Legends, setting up a final clash with Pakistan Champions.

In the semifinal played on Tuesday in England, South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first. They posted a competitive total of 186 runs for 8 wickets in 20 overs. Morne van Wyk was the top scorer with 76 runs, while Stumps added a valuable 57.

In reply, Australia Champions fought hard but narrowly missed the target, ending their innings at 185 for 7. Daniel Christian was the standout batter with 49 runs.

With this narrow victory, South Africa qualified for the final, where they will meet Pakistan Champions on Saturday.

It merits mention that Pakistan reached the final after India refused to play against them in the first semifinal.

August 1, 2025