Latvia's airBaltic has launched new direct flights to Dubai from Riga.
The European airline is operating non-stop weekly commercial flights between the Latvian capital and Dubai for the first time.
With four flights a week between the two destinations, airBaltic has commenced its newest route just in time for any travellers hoping to visit the UAE for Expo 2020 Dubai, which opens on Friday.
Paul Griffiths, chief executive of Dubai Airports said: “We are delighted to welcome airBaltic to the DXB family with the launch of their services between Dubai and Riga.”
“Creating this additional connectivity during the year of Expo adds to the growing strength of the DXB hub, and we are confident that it will boost the number of visitors travelling between Latvia and the UAE.”
Flights from Riga to Dubai on airBaltic's Airbus A220-300 narrowbody jets take about six and a half hours. Return fares start from €479 ($559).
Martin Gauss, chief executive of airBaltic said: “We see a great potential in strengthening the business ties between the UAE and Latvia. airBaltic's team is glad to launch this new route to Riga, which is a vibrant and dynamic city in the Baltic states."
Can I travel to Latvia?
Vaccinated travellers are able to fly to Riga without any restrictions in terms of preflight tests or self-isolation on arrival.
Unvaccinated tourists can also fly to Riga, but most will have to take a PCR test at least 72 hours before travelling. Unimmunised travellers from countries deemed to be high-risk will need to self-isolate on arrival in Latvia. The list of countries changes regularly; more information is available here.
Anyone flying to Latvia must complete and submit an electronic form no earlier than 48 hours before travel.
What is there to see and do in Riga?
Riga is the largest of the Baltic capitals and is known for its cultural scene and striking architecture. It has several museums, modern art centres and concert halls, and is also quickly making a name for itself as a culinary hub, with a now-flourishing dining scene.
The city is also famed for its interesting buildings and travellers can see everything from Gothic spires and art nouveau buildings to traditional wooden Latvian architecture.
The pedestrian-friendly Old Town is well worth a visit, and Riga is also great value for money. With the end of the year right around the corner, winter travel to Latvia could be a good choice if you're seeking guaranteed snow, pretty festive markets and ice-covered vistas.
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Hamilton $60m x 2 = $120m
Vettel $45m x 2 = $90m
Ricciardo $35m x 2 = $70m
Verstappen $55m x 3 = $165m
Leclerc $20m x 2 = $40m
TOTAL $485m
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Micro-retirement is not a recognised concept or employment status under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations (as amended) (UAE Labour Law). As such, it reflects a voluntary work-life balance practice, rather than a recognised legal employment category, according to Dilini Loku, senior associate for law firm Gateley Middle East.
“Some companies may offer formal sabbatical policies or career break programmes; however, beyond such arrangements, there is no automatic right or statutory entitlement to extended breaks,” she explains.
“Any leave taken beyond statutory entitlements, such as annual leave, is typically regarded as unpaid leave in accordance with Article 33 of the UAE Labour Law. While employees may legally take unpaid leave, such requests are subject to the employer’s discretion and require approval.”
If an employee resigns to pursue micro-retirement, the employment contract is terminated, and the employer is under no legal obligation to rehire the employee in the future unless specific contractual agreements are in place (such as return-to-work arrangements), which are generally uncommon, Ms Loku adds.
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The view from The National
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- Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
- Power: 640hp
- Torque: 760nm
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- Price: Not announced yet
Lexus LX700h specs
Engine: 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 plus supplementary electric motor
Power: 464hp at 5,200rpm
Torque: 790Nm from 2,000-3,600rpm
Transmission: 10-speed auto
Fuel consumption: 11.7L/100km
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh590,000
Biog
Age: 50
Known as the UAE’s strongest man
Favourite dish: “Everything and sea food”
Hobbies: Drawing, basketball and poetry
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Favourite superhero: The Hulk original
Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
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The line up
Friday: Giggs, Sho Madjozi and Masego
Saturday: Nas, Lion Bbae, Roxanne Shante and DaniLeigh
Sole DXB runs from December 6 to 8 at Dubai Design District. Weekend pass is Dh295 while a one day pass is Dh195. Tickets are available from www.soledxb.com
Specs
Engine: Duel electric motors
Power: 659hp
Torque: 1075Nm
On sale: Available for pre-order now
Price: On request
