Fans of the hit Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’ in the UAE are in for a treat as ‘Stranger Things: The Experience’ makes its Middle Eastern debut at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Opening on November 14, 2025, this immersive attraction will transport visitors into the eerie yet captivating world of Hawkins, Indiana, just ahead of the release of the show’s fifth and final season in late November. The experience promises to blend cutting-edge technology, live actors, and elaborate sets to create an unforgettable journey through the beloved series. Attendees will step into Hawkins Lab, interact with iconic characters like Eleven and Dustin, and even unlock their own powers to battle Vecna in a unique storyline. The adventure culminates in a vibrant ‘Mix-Tape’ zone, celebrating the show’s ’80s nostalgia with themed food, photo opportunities, and exclusive merchandise. Tickets, starting at Dh75, go on sale on November 4, with the experience running through February 15, 2026. The attraction is open Thursday to Sunday, with recommended timings for families and children aged 5 and above. This event marks a significant milestone for entertainment in the region, offering fans a chance to dive deeper into the ‘Stranger Things’ universe.
分类： entertainment
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Exclusive interview with the designer of the 15th National Games mascots after their viral social media debut
As the 15th National Games draw near, the mascots Xiyangyang and Lerongrong have captured the hearts of millions with their endearing, chicken-like designs. Contrary to their whimsical appearance, these mascots are inspired by the Chinese white dolphins inhabiting the Pearl River Estuary, near the iconic Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. In an exclusive interview, Liu Pingyun, the lead designer, expressed his delight at the mascots’ viral success on social media. He encouraged the public to use accessible and popular language to describe the mascots, believing it would amplify their reach and message. Liu emphasized the importance of cultural representation in the design, aiming to bridge tradition with modernity. The mascots have not only become symbols of the upcoming games but also a testament to China’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
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From India to Pakistan and the global diaspora, South Asian sounds make an impact worldwide
The global music scene is witnessing a remarkable rise in South Asian influences, as artists from the region gain international recognition and audiences. Arooj Aftab made history in 2022 as the first Pakistani Grammy winner, securing the Best Global Music Performance award for her song “Mohabbat.” In 2023, Diljit Dosanjh became the first Punjabi artist to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, highlighting the region’s rich musical heritage. Meanwhile, Avara, a first-generation Indian American artist, captivated fans during her debut tour, with her monthly Spotify listeners skyrocketing by over 250% since November 2024. Warner Music Group’s launch of 5 Junction Records in April further underscores the growing demand for South Asian-inspired music in North America. Billboard CEO Mike Van attributes this surge to evolving tastes, technological advancements, and the activation of diaspora audiences. Artists like Nora Fatehi, who transitioned from Bollywood to global stardom, exemplify the power of cross-cultural collaboration. As the U.S. becomes increasingly diverse, younger generations are embracing global sounds, with Gen Z and Gen Alpha leading the charge. Avara’s journey, blending Indian classical and Western influences, reflects the rise of “third culture kids” who navigate multiple cultural identities. Her upcoming album, “MARA,” aims to create a new genre by fusing diverse musical styles. This cultural fusion is reshaping the global music industry, offering fresh perspectives and innovative sounds.
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A musical dialogue between the Earth and humanity
In a groundbreaking performance at the Patriots Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton, New Jersey, a symphonic jazz masterpiece titled ‘O God… Beautiful Machine’ captivated an audience of 1,200. The event, held on a vibrant Saturday evening, brought together an orchestra, jazz ensemble, choir, and Chinese instrumentalists in a harmonious blend of languages and musical timbres. The performance, a collaborative effort by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Yusef Komunyakaa and composer Vince di Mura, explored the delicate relationship between humanity and the Earth. The concert, presented by the Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey, was dedicated to the late Trenton arts advocate Larry Hilton, whose vision and encouragement were instrumental in bringing this unique project to life. Hilton’s sister, Karen Hilton, shared heartfelt remarks about his belief in the unifying power of art. The evening featured a standout Chinese-language section, ‘The Cassowary,’ which showcased the pipa and Chinese percussion, described by di Mura as a tribute to his Chinese friends and inspired by traditional Chinese melodies. The performance also highlighted the talents of Chinese and Chinese American musicians, including soprano Lina Zha, violist Jing Yang, and pipa soloist Yang Jin, whose careers have bridged Eastern and Western musical traditions. Narrator Bill Engst added a bilingual gravitas to the event. The music, a seamless dialogue between improvisation and structure, Western harmony and Eastern lyricism, left the audience in a prolonged standing ovation, many feeling a profound connection across cultures and traditions.
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German scents exhibition combines 1,000 years of fragrances with art and history
DÜSSELDORF, Germany — Have you ever imagined the scent of war, the aroma of love, or the pungent odor of medieval Paris? A groundbreaking exhibition in Germany is inviting visitors to embark on a sensory journey through history by exploring 81 distinct fragrances across 37 galleries. Titled ‘The Secret Power of Scents,’ the exhibition, which opened on Wednesday at the Kunstpalast museum in Düsseldorf, seamlessly blends art and olfactory experiences to traverse over 1,000 years of cultural history.
Curated as an experimental exploration, the exhibition encourages visitors to engage with history through their sense of smell. ‘This is an invitation to discover the history of scents with your nose,’ said Felix Krämer, the museum’s director general. The exhibition is organized chronologically, from medieval religious artifacts to contemporary 21st-century art. Each gallery is equipped with scent steles, atomizers, and diffusers to evoke the aromas of specific time periods or cultural contexts.
One gallery immerses visitors in the sacred fragrance of myrrh, used in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam for prayer and purification. In contrast, a World War I-themed gallery releases a jarring blend of gunpowder, blood, and sulfur, eliciting visceral reactions from visitors. ‘Anyone who has experienced war will recognize its brutality in this scent,’ said curator Robert Müller-Grünow, a leading expert in scent technology.
The exhibition also explores the romantic side of history, with a gallery dedicated to Peter Paul Rubens’ 1610 painting ‘Venus and Adonis,’ diffusing the scents of roses and civet, once considered erotic in the 17th century. Meanwhile, the stench of medieval Paris—a mix of canalization, mold, and unwashed bodies—offers a stark contrast.
The 1920s are celebrated with the uplifting aroma of tobacco, vanilla, and leather, accompanying Gert Wollheim’s 1924 painting ‘Farewell from Düsseldorf,’ which symbolizes the liberation of women. Modern art is represented through scents reminiscent of global brands like Coca-Cola and Eurowings, alongside contemporary fragrances like ‘Iso E Super,’ a velvety, cedarwood-like scent designed to enhance attractiveness.
Running through March 8, the exhibition has captivated visitors like Kirsten Gnoth, who described the experience as ‘completely new and exciting.’ By combining art with scents, the exhibition offers a unique and immersive way to explore history.
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Ms Rachel’s activism on Gaza lauded in Glamour Women of the Year nod
In a bold move that transcends traditional celebrity accolades, Glamour magazine’s 2025 ‘Women of the Year’ list has spotlighted two remarkable figures for their unwavering courage and moral clarity in the face of global controversy. YouTube educator Ms Rachel and actress Rachel Zegler have been celebrated for their vocal support of Palestine amidst Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza, a conflict that has claimed over 68,000 lives and left tens of thousands injured. Their inclusion in the prestigious list has been hailed as a cultural turning point, signaling a shift in how public figures use their platforms to advocate for justice and compassion. Ms Rachel, a beloved children’s educator known for her sing-along lessons, has faced both praise and backlash for her outspoken stance. Her recent attempt to host a party for Rahaf, a Palestinian child who survived Israeli air strikes, was met with rejection from three venues, sparking outrage online. Zegler, a rising star in Hollywood, has similarly faced criticism for her pro-Palestinian posts, including a public clash with Disney executives who reportedly sought to silence her. Despite the challenges, both women have remained steadfast in their advocacy, earning widespread admiration from fans and activists alike. Their recognition by Glamour has resonated deeply with audiences disillusioned by the silence of many public figures, offering a rare moment of moral victory and hope. This honor also reflects a broader cultural movement, as a new generation of artists, educators, and influencers continues to normalize open support for Palestinian rights, despite repression and boycotts. Ms Rachel and Zegler’s joint recognition symbolizes a shifting tide, proving that compassion and courage can still trend in an increasingly polarized world.
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UAE fans can now watch Shah Rukh Khan’s classics on the big screen again
In a grand celebration of Shah Rukh Khan’s unparalleled cinematic legacy, Yash Raj Films (YRF) International has unveiled the Shah Rukh Khan Film Festival, set to captivate audiences across the Middle East, North America, the UK, Europe, and Australasia. The festival, commencing on October 31, will span two weeks, offering fans a chance to revisit some of SRK’s most iconic films on the big screen. The curated lineup includes timeless classics such as the romantic tragedy ‘Devdas,’ the poetic masterpiece ‘Dil Se,’ the adrenaline-packed ‘Chennai Express,’ and the modern action thriller ‘Jawan,’ among others. Each film represents a distinct era and emotion from SRK’s illustrious 33-year career, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal. Shah Rukh Khan expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘Cinema has always been my home, and seeing these films return to the big screen feels like a beautiful reunion.’ Nelson D’Souza, Vice President of International Distribution at YRF, emphasized SRK’s global influence, calling him ‘a global icon and an enduring emotion.’ The festival coincides with SRK’s birthday on November 2, allowing UAE fans to celebrate by immersing themselves in his cinematic magic. Show timings are available at local cinemas.
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Dream Media Motion hosts glamorous Dream Fashion Gala Season 2, Noor-e-Diwali
Dream Media Motion recently hosted the highly anticipated Dream Fashion Gala Season 2 – Noor-e-Diwali, transforming Dubai’s Khalidia Palace Hotel into a hub of glamour and cultural celebration. Spearheaded by Namrata Kashyap, Founder and CEO of Dream Media Motion, the event exemplified her innovative approach to merging fashion, art, music, and culture into a single, unforgettable experience. The gala featured a breathtaking fashion show, a premium exhibition, and a series of dynamic entertainment performances that beautifully highlighted the fusion of Indian and Emirati traditions. Attendees were treated to thrilling competitions, including Miss & Mr. Teens, Best Dressed Male, and Best Dressed Female, alongside electrifying performances by renowned Bollywood artists. Bollywood actress Shivani Sharma added star power as the celebrity chief guest, while Sheikha Dr Hind Bint Abdulaziz Al Qasimi and a host of UAE VVIPs, dignitaries, and celebrities graced the event with their presence. With over 300–400 guests in attendance, the evening was a testament to Dubai’s vibrant fashion scene. The gala culminated in an exquisite 5-star dinner, offering a perfect blend of luxury, networking, and festivity. The event received widespread acclaim and media coverage, further cementing Dream Media Motion’s reputation as a leader in innovative and high-quality event production.
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Pakistani producer Abdullah Seja on ‘Sher’, Dubai’s creative scene, and the future of Urdu content
Abdullah Seja, the visionary producer behind hit shows like ‘Sher’ and ‘Kaisi Teri Khudgharzi’, has become a prominent figure in the Urdu entertainment industry. With ‘Sher’ amassing over 4 billion views across platforms, Seja’s production house, Idream Entertainment, has solidified its place in the global streaming landscape. In a recent interview with City Times, Seja shared insights into his creative journey, the evolving habits of content consumers, and his vision for the future of Urdu content.
Seja emphasized the responsibility that comes with producing content, stating, ‘Delivering content is always a responsibility; you have to be relevant to the society you’re producing for.’ He highlighted the importance of understanding diverse audience segments and creating relatable narratives. Dubai, which he describes as his ‘second home,’ plays a pivotal role in his creative process. ‘Dubai is a melting pot for all creative individuals,’ he noted, adding that the city’s dynamic environment helps him align his vision with global trends and market dynamics.
Seja also discussed the growing connection between his content and the UAE’s diverse diaspora. With ARY, a major channel in the UAE, airing his shows, he has established a strong foothold in the region. He expressed optimism about future collaborations with local channels and stakeholders in the MENA region, aiming to produce more Urdu-based content tailored to the expatriate audience.
Looking ahead, Seja believes that content consumption will continue to evolve, with platforms like YouTube enabling personalized viewing experiences. ‘Content consumption is very personalized,’ he explained, noting that algorithms now push similar dramas to viewers based on their preferences. Despite these changes, he remains confident in the timeless nature of storytelling, stating, ‘There are only seven stories in the world; the execution and packaging will evolve.’
Seja’s approach to producing diverse content, from mass entertainers like ‘Sher’ to neighborhood dramas like ‘Sharpasand’, reflects his understanding of varied audience tastes. ‘Every drama will have its own life,’ he remarked, emphasizing that each project resonates uniquely with its audience. As he continues to innovate and collaborate, Seja is poised to shape the future of Urdu content on a global scale.
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‘They refused to take auditions’: Sonam Bajwa reveals her struggle against typecasting in Bollywood
Actress Sonam Bajwa, renowned for her work in Punjabi cinema, has recently opened up about her struggles with typecasting in Bollywood. Despite her impressive filmography in Punjabi films, Bajwa revealed that Hindi filmmakers often pigeonholed her as merely a glamorous face, overlooking her acting capabilities. This perception delayed her entry into Bollywood, where she had to wait years for a role that showcased her talent beyond her appearance. Bajwa is currently receiving acclaim for her performance in the newly released film ‘Ek Deewane ki Deewaniyat,’ co-starring Harshvardhan Rane. In the film, she plays an actress who challenges toxic love, a role that allowed her to demonstrate her acting prowess. In an interview with ANI, Bajwa expressed her frustration with the industry’s reluctance to consider her for performance-oriented roles, often dismissing her without auditions. She emphasized that her social media presence and public appearances might have contributed to this narrow perception. Despite these challenges, Bajwa has successfully transitioned into Bollywood with roles in ‘Housefull 5’ and ‘Baaghi 4.’ Her journey highlights the persistent issue of typecasting in the film industry and the resilience required to overcome such barriers.