Dubai Named World's Most Instagrammable City 2026
Dubai was named the world’s most Instagrammable city, with the Burj Khalifa claiming the top spot as the planet’s most photographed and searched landmark. This ranking was determined by a new global study conducted by PlayersTime, which assessed over 240 destinations worldwide using a special ‘Instagrammability Score’. This score combines Google search demand with the volume of destination-related hashtags on Instagram and TikTok to measure a location’s digital visibility.
The Burj Khalifa led the landmark rankings with a perfect score of 100, generating over 10.1 million tagged posts across social media and attracting 1.1 million monthly Google searches. Dubai achieved a perfect Instagrammability Score of 100 as well, after receiving more than 190 million combined Instagram and TikTok posts and 3.43 million monthly Google searches.
Other cities that secured top spots in the ‘Instagramability’ rankings include London, Paris, and Barcelona, with New York City also ranking among the top 5 Instagrammable cities, with over 165 million social media posts. The study highlights Dubai’s dominance in the digital environment, with the city’s iconic landmarks and attractions drawing massive attention on social media platforms.
The ranking supports Dubai’s position as a global hub for tourism and social media, with the city’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure making it an attractive destination for visitors from around the world. As the most Instagrammable city in 2026, Dubai is expected to continue to attract large numbers of tourists and social media enthusiasts, further solidifying its position as a leading global destination.
Roberto Mancini Returns as Italy Coach, Apologizes
Mancini Apologizes, Vows to Rebuild Italy's National Team
Roberto Mancini has apologized for his previous departure to coach Saudi Arabia, returning to lead the Italian national football team. Mancini, who led the Azzurri to the European Championship title in 2021, resigned as Italy coach in August 2023 to take over Saudi Arabia's national team. Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for a third straight time, prompting the resignations of federation president Gabriele Gravina and coach Gennaro Gattuso in April.
Mancini's first match back in charge will be against Belgium in the Nations League on September 25 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. He admitted that his departure was a mistake and expressed regret for the consequences of his actions. "I'm very sorry," Mancini said. "It was like losing the woman of your life. And it means you did something that shouldn't have been done. So I'm sorry, very sorry also for everything that happened over these last three years."
The 61-year-old Mancini was a fourth-choice option after Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola turned the job down and Andrea Pirlo was dropped as a candidate amid political concerns over a sponsorship deal with a Russian betting firm. Mancini realizes that some fans may be against him, but he hopes the squad plays well enough to earn their forgiveness. He vows to try to bring the national team back where it belongs.
This development comes after Italy's recent World Cup qualification failures, which led to a crisis in the national team. Mancini's return and apology mark a new chapter in the team's history, as they seek to rebuild and regain their former glory.
UAE Lottery: Dh30m Jackpot Rolls Over
Dh30m UAE Lottery Jackpot Rolls Over: Two Winners Claim Dh100,000 Each
On Wednesday, the latest UAE Lottery Lucky Day draw took place, revealing the winning numbers for Draw No. 260729. The winning numbers in the Days section were 4, 10, 13, 31, 18, and 11, while the winning number in the Months section was 7. Two participants matched five numbers in the Days section along with the winning Months number, claiming the third prize of Dh100,000 each. Additionally, three participants won Dh50,000 each in the guaranteed Lucky Chance ID prize category, with the winning IDs being BO3985092, BQ4199067, and DU9779036.
The Dh30 million grand prize and the Dh5 million second prize rolled over, as no participant matched the full set of winning numbers. The next UAE Lottery draw is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, giving participants another chance to win the life-changing Dh30 million jackpot and various other cash prizes. Show host Chadi Khalaf congratulated the winners, inviting participants to try their luck again in the upcoming draw.
The rollover of the Dh30 million jackpot and the Dh5 million second prize has generated excitement among participants, who are eager to win the top prizes in the next draw. With the lottery's twice-weekly draw schedule, participants have regular opportunities to win cash prizes and change their lives.
The UAE Lottery has been making headlines with its significant cash prizes and jackpots. As the lottery continues to gain popularity, more participants are trying their luck, hoping to win the life-changing prizes. The upcoming draw on August 1 is expected to attract a large number of participants, all vying for a chance to win the Dh30 million jackpot.
As the UAE Lottery continues to roll out its draws, participants can stay updated on the latest results and winning numbers through the Gulf News app. The app provides real-time updates, allowing participants to check their numbers and stay informed about the upcoming draws.
Regarding the UAE's entertainment and leisure scene, the UAE Lottery has become a significant player, offering participants a chance to win big and change their lives. As the lottery continues to grow in popularity, it is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and community.
The UAE Lottery's commitment to transparency and fairness has earned it a reputation as a trusted and reliable platform for participants. With its regular draws and significant cash prizes, the UAE Lottery is an exciting opportunity for those looking to try their luck and win big.
Andrea Pirlo Backed by Dubai United
Pirlo Stays with Dubai United Amid Italy Job Controversy
The streets of Dubai are abuzz with the latest news in the football scene, particularly in the Al Wasl area where Dubai United is set to begin their campaign on August 15. Italian football legend Andrea Pirlo has found the backing of his club Dubai United amidst the Italian coach job row. Pirlo, a World Cup winner in 2006 and one of the most iconic midfielders of his generation, brought a unique footballing vision and valuable coaching experience from spells at Juventus and Sampdoria when he joined Dubai United in July last year.
Dubai United's full backing of Pirlo comes after significant speculation in the media regarding his future, including reports that do not reflect the facts. The club's statement on social media expressed delight in having Pirlo as their Head Coach and assured that Club President Ilie Cebanu, the management, coaching staff, and players fully support him. Pirlo is fully committed to Dubai United, and the club is fully committed to him. This commitment is crucial as Dubai United prepares for their historic first season in the ADNOC Pro League, an important new chapter for the club.
The controversy surrounding Pirlo's candidacy for the Italian national team coaching position has led to him no longer being considered for the job. Pirlo expressed bitterness over the debate, which he believes was not based on sporting criteria but rather became a public controversy where intentions and ideas that do not reflect his personality were attributed to him. Despite this setback, Pirlo's focus remains on Dubai United, and the club is preparing for their upcoming campaign against Al Wasl on August 15.
This development is a significant one for football fans in Dubai, particularly those supporting Dubai United. As the team gears up for their first season in the ADNOC Pro League, the backing of Pirlo by the club reflects their commitment to success. With Pirlo at the helm, Dubai United is poised to make a strong impact in the league, and fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.
The ADNOC Pro League is a key part of Dubai's sporting environment, and Dubai United's participation is expected to draw significant interest from fans across the city. As the team prepares to take on Al Wasl on August 15, fans can expect a thrilling match that will set the tone for the rest of the season. With Pirlo's experience and the club's commitment to him, Dubai United is ready to make its mark on the league.
Dubai Metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station in Expansion mode
New Staircase Opens at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station
The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro station has seen a significant increase in users over the years, with the number of passengers rising from 6.13 million in 2013 to 10.58 million in 2024. To manage this surge, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the opening of a new temporary staircase at the station, located near Exit 1. This change is part of the ongoing expansion works at the station, which aims to increase the total area from 6,700 to 8,500 square meters, with additional escalators and elevators to optimize passenger movement.
The expansion works have also led to the temporary closure of the bus and taxi service road at the station, effective from July 4, 2026, until the end of 2026. The existing access road has been reserved for construction vehicles, and a new alternative parking area has been provided near Exit 1 to facilitate the movement of commuters. Directional signs have been placed around the area to guide passengers to the new temporary staircase, with access routes clearly shown on the map.
The RTA, in collaboration with Emaar Properties, is working to complete the expansion works, which will increase the station's capacity to handle the large number of passengers, particularly during major events like New Year's Eve celebrations and public holidays. Once the expansion works are complete, the station will have additional escalators and elevators, expanding the platform areas and separating entry and exit points to optimize passenger movement.
The expansion of the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro station is a significant development in Dubai's transportation infrastructure, aiming to improve the overall commuting experience for passengers. With the new temporary staircase and alternative parking area, commuters can expect a smoother journey, despite the ongoing construction works.
Dubai Metro Safety Check
Dubai Metro Safety Gets RTA Check
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is conducting a comprehensive campaign to verify the safety of Dubai Metro tunnel ventilation systems. This initiative aims to ensure the highest standards of passenger safety and operational efficiency across the metro network. The campaign is focused on the Dubai Metro tunnels, with the RTA working to guarantee the safety of passengers.
The RTA's campaign is a significant step towards maintaining the trust of Dubai's commuters, who rely on the metro as a primary mode of transportation. By verifying the safety of the tunnel ventilation systems, the RTA is demonstrating its commitment to providing a secure and efficient public transportation system. This effort is crucial in ensuring that the Dubai Metro continues to be a reliable and safe option for residents and visitors alike.
The RTA's initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the overall safety and efficiency of the Dubai Metro. While the exact details of the campaign are not specified, it is clear that the RTA is taking proactive steps to identify and address any potential safety concerns. This approach is in line with the authority's mission to provide a world-class public transportation system that meets the highest standards of safety and reliability.
The Dubai Metro is a vital component of the city's transportation infrastructure, with millions of passengers relying on it every day. The RTA's campaign to verify the safety of the tunnel ventilation systems is a critical aspect of maintaining the metro's overall safety and efficiency. By prioritizing passenger safety, the RTA is helping to ensure that the Dubai Metro remains a trusted and reliable mode of transportation for years to come.
As the RTA continues to work on verifying the safety of the Dubai Metro tunnel ventilation systems, commuters can be assured that their safety is a top priority. The authority's commitment to providing a safe and efficient public transportation system is evident in its proactive approach to addressing potential safety concerns. With the RTA at the helm, Dubai's public transportation system is in good hands.
