What's On-April 2026

STevens

HOME SWEET HOME P24

08 OUTDOORSY TYPE

Make the most of the UAE outdoors before summer comes a knockin’

18 AND BREAAAATHE

The places to go when things are feeling a bit much

58 SPA REVIEW

How The Wave Lounge can make you feel like a new person

66 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

It’s camping, but also not at all...

Our website is packed with news, restaurants, culture, shopping, sport and spas. It’s your online destination for stuff to do in the UAE. Get clicking.

30 BARRAFINA

A London success story, but can the tapas also take over Dubai?

32 A WIN(DOW) IS A WIN

You won’t want to just look through the glass of this Alserkal bistro

38 VISIT THE VISTA

The calmer Palm Jumeirah sibling and the seven foodie reasons to visit

40 THE LOCAL SHOP

Support those closest to you with these homegrown brands

the

on the App Store.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne

GROUP CONTENT DIRECTOR Thomas Woodgate thomas.woodgate@motivate.ae

EDITORIAL

DEPUTY EDITOR, DUBAI Madie Murphy madie.murphy@motivate.ae

ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES EDITOR Aarti Saundalkar

FEATURES EDITOR, ABU DHABI Leonie Wagner

SENIOR ONLINE REPORTER Jumira Hancock

REPORTER Lana Du

ONLINE REPORTER Afrah Bari

ONLINE REPORTER Rasha Hassan

JUNIOR REPORTER Sammi Barnard

CONTRIBUTORS Alice Holtham-Pargin, Laura Coughlin, Miles Buckeridge

DESIGN

ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR, DUBAI & NORTHERN EMIRATES Violeta Popescu violeta.popescu@motivate.ae

SENIOR SALES MANAGER Pamela Bayram pamela.bayram@motivate.ae

SALES MANAGER, ABU DHABI Lina Abdelaziz lina.abdelaziz@motivate.ae

SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE Ali Mohammad ali.mohammad@motivate.ae

PRODUCTION

GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar

PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran

ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Venita Pinto

WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

CREATIVE STUDIO

CONTENT PRODUCTION MANAGER Surajit Dutta

CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Mark Mathew

CONTENT PRODUCER/STUDIO MANAGER John Melencion

CREATIVE CONTENT PRODUCER Ekaterina Shirshova

Annual Subscription UAE Dhs180 • GCC and International US$130 (inclusive of postal charges)

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| WHATSON.AE

THERE’S

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

There’s been a clear theme running through conversations in the What’s On office this month. Alongside everything else, there’s been a shared sense of perspective – and, just as quickly, a sense of gratitude.

It’s prompted us to reflect on what it really means to be here in the UAE. Because there’s something about life here that’s hard to define, yet easy to feel. It’s in the places we go, the people we meet, and the sense of ease that follows you –whatever the time, wherever you are.

It’s something we’ve found ourselves appreciating more and more.

And that feeling runs through this issue: a reminder of why we love living here and the many ways we find to experience it. Inside, we explore how to make the most of the great outdoors, with open-air escapes to enjoy before summer arrives (p.8), alongside ideas for finding your own moments of calm (p.18). We also hear from the chefs,

hoteliers and hospitality voices who share what continues to inspire them about the UAE (p.24), and turn our attention to the homegrown brands that we’re loving right now (p.40).

You’ll also find plenty of the usual features – restaurants, family activities, travel ideas and wellness inspiration – for the month ahead. Because while some things shift and some things change, right now the important part is finding calm where you can, getting out when it feels right, and reconnecting with the places and people that make this country what it is.

Wherever this month takes you, we hope it brings a sense of perspective, a bit of fresh air, and a renewed appreciation for everything around you.

Enjoy the issue.

TEAM’S POV

We answer the questions you didn’t even ask.

What’s one place you keep going back to – and why?

Thomas Woodgate Group Content Director

I love a post-work trip to the driving range at Topgolf to release some tension. There’s nothing more satisfying than a sweet connection on a drive... Doesn’t happen as often as I’d like, though.

Sammi

Barnard Junior Reporter

Might sound surprising given Dubai’s incredible food scene, but I keep going back to Chipotle Mexican Grill in Dubai Hills Mall. It’s super simple, nothing fancy… but that chicken burrito? Unreal.

Leonie Wagner Features Editor

Sand & Koal at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Yes, for the food, which is great, but around sunset the light hits just right and everything turns shades of pink and gold. Then, the fire dancers start and it’s magical. It’s like stepping into another world, right here in Abu Dhabi.

BEFORE THE SUMMER SUN RISES

April is traditionally the time we enjoy spring’s final fling. Before the terrace awnings are wound back for summer, morning park jogs become heavy-footed treadmill slogs, barbecue coals dull to grey and aunties remind you to “take water if you’re out in the day”. Summer has its blessings too, but before it comes, we’re sharing our outdoor must-do list with you.

Walks to talk about

Where to get your steps in Words: Miles Buckeridge

Your step count is important. There is no debate on this. Not only is it a fantastic, low-impact form of exercise proven to unlock countless health benefits, it also allows us to meditate, to catch up on podcasts, leave feature-length voice notes or just, per chance, to daydream. What can make your walks dramatically more exciting, though, is a purpose and itinerary – a stroll with a goal. These are the best DIY walking tours in Dubai.

Mosey on up Marsa Boulevard

Mark Twain once famously said “Golf is a good walk spoiled”, and that may or may not be true but one thing we are sure of, is that good walks in the Gulf are a wonderful way to spoil yourself. And of all their varied forms, scenic evening strolls are a singularly elegant treasure of calorie-toasting leisure pleasure. At Marsa Boulevard, you get the golden perambulatory trifactor: fresh Creekside breeze, a messy plethora of F&B options and inspiring scenery. Embark after-dark and take a step-count buddy.

Hit the trail at Al

Hayer Forest

If leafy green scenes occupy your dreams, here’s how to make them a verdant Dubai reality. Al Hayer Forest is an expansive Ghaf tree grove, sat snug against Dubai’s border with Oman (intrepid side questers need only Google Al Hayer Forest for the location, accessed by the E66 and E55). It’s perfect for a shaded promenade, provincial picnics or a spot of secluded – though still easily reachable –wilderness camping.

TRACE THE SPACES OF AL MARMOOM OASIS

Talk of nomadic desert wanders normally defers to Al Qudra’s lakes, but we’re breaking gatekeeping protocols to bring you this trail-blazing news: Al Marmoom hides a true desert oasis, a veritable fertile flurry of treelined lanes, a glass-clear lake, and abundant wildlife. Check @almarmoon.ae for location and booking details.

Climb to the Hatta Sign

This peak-seeking hike up the Hajar Mountains is something of a rite of passage for UAE residents. The full official route is a 7.3km climb (fun-size versions are available), takes around two-and-a half hours to complete and it starts and ends at Hatta Wadi Hub. The kick-off point is clearly signposted and your journey will take you through some calf-testing inclines on your way to the itinerary highlight: the Hatta Sign, those big white letters mimicking Hollywood’s own famous hill graffiti.

MEANDER THROUGH MUSHRIF

Mushrif Park has its own official (pet-friendly) hiking trail that takes you through the canopied heart of Dubai nature. There’s a 10km route, with plenty of short-cut options for little legs. Play eye-spy with the locale’s wildlife, cross stairways and bridges, scope out sculptures and artworks, and round the whole thing off with a dine-around wrap-party at the neighbouring Al Khawaneej Walk.

HIDE ‘N’ AL SEEF

Use the Canopy by Hilton as your launch pad for a transitional stroll along the Creek waterfront. Breeze past the modern restaurants and bobbing dhows, and you’ll notice the aesthetic style of the buildings slowly slip from new and shiny to rustic and oldtimey. It’s all recently built, but the architectural fashioning deliberately calls back to the storied past of Dubai’s early settlements. Take a few more steps, and you’re in the enchanting embrace of Al Fahidi Historical District – explore its traditional alleyways, galleries and museums. We recommend refreshments to be taken in the courtyard of the XVA Art Hotel, an underrated cultural gem.

Strut Satwa’s streetfood triangle

The savour safari kicks off at Satwa Roundabout, and the only way to start your street food journey here is with a Dubai institution: Ravi Restaurant. Best experienced from a Karachi-tapas angle. With your biryani buried, peel yourself out of your seat and head east along Al Diyafah Street (towards The H Hotel), soaking in the vibrant street life and shopfronts that make Satwa a people-watching paradise. Your next stop is Pars Iranian Kitchen for a true taste of traditional Persian dishes. After that, we’re switching gears for another titan of Asian cuisine at the aromatic Filipino Market centred around Al Hudaiba Road. Set your Snack Nav for a visit to Bilaot Restaurant and prepare for an edible TedTalk on the sweet treats of Pinoy cuisine.

Strut the Bluewaters boardwalk

The shrewd rambler begins this journey with a toes-inthe-sand strut on the water’s edge of The Beach. From there, make your way towards the manmade Bluewaters Dubai peninsula – you can’t miss it: it’s the one with the world’s largest observation wheel eyeing you up from across the cove. As you approach the route onto the spit of land, a convenient boardwalk provides easy access. Once aboard you can take a brisk perimeter walk of the attraction, then lunch in one of the excellent restaurants (we strongly recommend Clay, Din Tai Fung, or Alici). And if you’re tempted to turn it into a luxurious daycay, head to La Cantine Beach at the Delano hotel on Bluewaters – pure balmy, beachy bliss.

Beach and Pool Club bargains

Bougie beach days that won’t break the bank

Words: Miles Buckeridge

Dubai holds many records and whilst ‘highest concentration of beach clubs’ isn’t an official Guinness designation, we’re pretty confident Dubai picks up gold, silver and bronze on this. St. Tropez who? And towards the end of peak beach season, you can usually flop, drop and shop for some bargains on lounger access. These are some of the best pre-summer Dubai beach club deals that will allow you to secure your own bronze.

Aura SkyPool

The highest 360-degree infinity pool in the world. How do you like dem apple martinis Marina Bay Sands? If we were handing out leisure world wonder plaques (we’re not), Aura would be right at the top of our list, with views of Palm Jumeirah that can only be equalled by jumping out of a plane with a parachute. And because it’s something the brand feels every resident should enjoy, they have a limited time 50 percent off discount for EK ID holders. Prices start at around Dhs275.

@auraskypool.dubai

Playa Pacha

Vamos a la FIVE LUXE Playa Pacha for a fully-redeemable deal on poolside beds (Dhs600 for two). This homage to the Balearic beat boutique that birthed the Pacha dynasty hosts a roster of the world’s biggest DJs, and has recently expanded its already extensive beach access. Bosh. @playapachadubai

Gallery 7/40

La Cantine Beach

Found at the Delano hotel on Bluewaters Dubai, this restaurant-spawned beach club is a little leisure masterpiece. It faces away from the clustered hub of Marina and JBR towers, so the views feel deliciously abstract for Dubai. They have a sports club with access to pickleball and padel courts, multiple pools, in addition to the private beach, the Mediterranean-led restaurant is up there with the best-in-genre. The great news is that packages are currently fully redeemable and start at just Dhs250.

@lacantinebeachdubai

O BEACH

This Ionian inspired spot is a big, stacked Grecian honey pot housed in The Club, one of seven beach clubs in one destination. With eclectic décor, authentic charm and Mediterranean cuisine, it features both indoor and outdoor restaurants, a swimming pool, and its own stretch of beach. Access is fully redeemable, starting at just Dhs200.

@gallery740dubai

Drift Beach

One of the city’s most iconic and longest-serving beach clubs, Drift Beach is currently offering a special fully redeemable Dhs200 access price point. That’s a scandalously low entry bar for this prime piece of real estate on the Royal Mirage’s Costa Del Chic.

@driftbeachdubai

It may have started in Ibiza, but it’s found new levels in Dubai. This is the spiritual home of the pool party – a thriving hub of vibes and house beat tribes. At the heart of the beach club is O Beach’s signature pool, dotted with in-water pool beds, flanked by a collection of VIP areas and even cabanas with their own private jacuzzi’s. Prices start at a fully redeemable price of Dhs200.

@obeachdubai

Golden hour views

Vistas you never tire of

Words: Sammi Barnard

Dubai sunsets never disappoint and the best part is you don’t have to spend a dirham to enjoy them. Before the summer heat sets in, now is the perfect time to head outdoors and catch the city glowing in golden hour. From quiet beaches to scenic waterfronts, these are the best free spots in Dubai to watch the sun go down.

Kite Beach

This is a classic for a reason. As the sun dips low, Kite Beach glows in every shade of peach and gold. Whether you’re barefoot on the sand, cruising the boardwalk, or taking a sunset swim, this spot is pure golden hour magic. Just you, the slight waves, and the sky putting on a show.

Dubai Creek Harbour Walkway

For skyline lovers, it doesn’t get better than this. Watch the sun melt behind Downtown Dubai’s towering silhouette as reflections ripple across the water. The boardwalk is wide, calm, and full of dreamy photo ops.

Sunset Beach

Settle in and watch the sun sink towards the horizon while the sky glows behind the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. As its name suggests, this beach is one of the best spots in the city to catch the evening sky at its most colourful. Located just along from Kite Beach, the quieter shoreline is known for its soft white sand and relaxed atmosphere.

Al Qudra Desert

If you’re craving a sunset with silence, head to Al Qudra. Out here, it’s just golden dunes, wide skies, and the occasional cyclist zipping by. Pack your own barbecue and bring a blanket – no reservation required.

Dubai Harbour

Enjoy a relaxed walk along the harbour promenade as the sun slowly dips behind Ain Dubai, casting golden light across the rows of gently swaying yachts. There are benches dotted near the start of the marina where you can pause and soak up the sunset views, or if you feel like stretching your legs, follow the path all the way to the cruise terminal at the far end before looping back.

JBR Beach

The beachfront at JBR is a great spot to catch the sunset over the Arabian Gulf. As the sky shifts in colour, Ain Dubai stands prominently in the distance, while people gather along the sand and promenade to soak up the cooler evening air.

Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk

For a sunset that stuns every time, the west side of the Palm Jumeirah Walkway is a must. Facing the Arabian Gulf with a clear view of the iconic Burj Al Arab, this breezy path offers a front-row seat to the sky’s nightly light show. Whether you’re out for a jog, a slow stroll, or simply want to pause and take it all in, this spot serves skyline beauty and sea air in perfect harmony.

ATMOSPHERE AT THE BURJ KHALIFA

Perched 442 metres up the world’s tallest tower, Atmosphere gives you a few extra minutes of sunlight before the sun takes its bow. But this spot isn’t just about the dwindling-golden-hour views – the menu serves up French-led flavours with elegant precision, and paired with the sky-high vantage, it makes for a setting that practically begs for a special occasion. @atmospheredubai

Vitamin sea

The best way to see off spring

Words: Lana Du

Before summer cranks up the exterior thermostat and sea temperatures, now is the perfect window for diving into some water sports. Whether you’re gliding across calm waters in a kayak, soaring through the sky with a parasail, or zipping along the coastline on a jet ski, the options are as endless as the ocean views. Here’s your guide to the most exciting ways to get wet and wild this season.

Jet

skiing

Roar across Dubai’s coastline with the wind in your hair and skyscrapers in the background. This is a classic watersport that never gets old, and Dubai folk just love it.

Location: Shark Jet Ski Rental, Dubai Marina @sharkjetski

Surf’s Up at Wavehouse

Not just about bowling and arcade games, Wavehouse is home to Surf’s Up, an artificial wave machine pumping out seven tonnes of water per second. Surf, bodyboard, and ride gnarly barrels on repeat.

Location: Wavehouse, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah @atlantisthepalm

Kayaking

For something more chilled, grab a kayak and paddle your way across calm waters with the city skyline behind you. Peaceful, scenic, and also, familyfriendly.

Location: SeaYou

Watersport Center, Sofitel The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Tel: (050) 551 0238

Banana boat

Grab your mates, hang on tight, and prepare for a fruit-themed blast-off. The giant inflatable banana will have you screaming with laughter as it peels across the water.

Location: Sky & Sea Adventures, JBR @skyandseadxb

Parasailing

Soar up to 200 metres above the water and take in epic views of Dubai from the sky. This one’s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s totally worth conquering your fears for.

Location: Dubai Marina Harbour, Dubai Marina @sealifedubai

FLYBOARDING

Blast into the air with water-powered jet nozzles and feel like a real-life superhero. Expect adrenaline and possibly, a few wipeouts. This is the closest humanity has ever accessibly come to real life hoverboards.

Location: Hydro Water Sports, Palm Jumeirah @hydrowaterspotsuae

Alfresco restaurants

A table with a view

Words: Miles Buckeridge

Few pleasures in life deliver quite as perfectly as a shady spring lunch on a terrace – or dinner beneath a canopy of stars – especially if you grew up under the unrelenting grey skies of Northern Europe. So where’s the best place to indulge in this seasonal alfresco magic before the summer sun takes over? We’ve got the reservations and recommendations for Dubai’s finest outdoor restaurants.

Cé La Vi

Sitting on an ornately conceived perch 220 metres above sea level, Cé La Vi is a Michelin-Guide Asian restaurant that comes highly recommended. Whether you’re booking a table for brunch, lunch or a star-spangled soiree, the Burj Khalifa views and iconic swing-seat provide dramatic, backdrop candy. It’s date, and mate, night magic with a clever cocktail list and some world-class menu headliners. Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai. @celavidubai

SIRENE

CASA AMOR

Byron Bathers

Taking inspiration from Australia’s celebrity hotspot, Byron Bay, this comes with a cheeky trio of concepts. There’s the main restaurant and terrace, Byron’s Bar & Bistro; the all-alfresco Ulu’s Oyster bar; and Tigerlily’s Beach, where you’ll find loungers, deck chairs and even a play area for the little ones. Décor themes pair preppy blue and white stripes, and a hefty shot of greenery. Outdoors, there’s a tropical garden feel, with a whitewashed beer garden-style set-up.

Al Manhal Building, Shoreline, Palm Jumeirah. @byronbathersclub

SAN Beach

From the ultra suave shores of St Tropez, glitzy beach club and restaurant Casa Amor’s UAE outpost can be found on the shores of Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai. The chic coastal space brings lively music rituals, free-spirited ambience, and refined Provencal cuisine to a rusticluxe restaurant space. While the beach club does boast an array of loungers and cabanas on the sand, the restaurant is the place to spend a sophisticated afternoon with friends.

Bringing Aegean-inspired luxury to the shores of J1 Beach is Sirene, the stunning beach club from Dubai homegrown favourite, Gaia. But it’s not just lounger top bronzing, those looking for a more formal dining experience will be able to book the chef Izu Ani-helmed restaurant, which offers a coastal iteration of the cuisine Gaia is known and loved for. GreekMediterranean fare takes centre stage, in a setting that is light and charming. Guests can look forward to Myconian-style sundowners, served up to the sounds of resident DJs, and some big acts keeping the party going until the early hours on weekends. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. @sirene_dxb

SAN has to be one of the most aesthetically idyllic beach clubs in the whole of the GCC, with its curvaceous lines, organic palette and tactile textures of marble, wood and slate. There’s an indoor restaurant and two levels of Maldives-imported sand beach: the first comes with tables surrounded by soothing greens, a pool bar and a DJ booth, while the second is filled with loungers leading to the sea. On the menu –magnificent Mediterranean fare from the impressive open kitchen, where plates like tempura prawns, sushi rolls and fresh crudo all come delectably presented.

SAN Beach, The Club, Palm Jumeirah. sanbeachdubai.com

Take your wellness outdoors

From sunrise to sunset, these outdoor rituals will awaken your body and calm your mind

Words: Lana Du

This April, make the most of this brief window of ideal weather with outdoor wellness. From desert meditation to beach workouts, these rituals will get you moving, breathing, and recharging across the city, its beaches, gardens and desert.

Unroll your mat at sunrise or sunset

Sunrise or sunset yoga can happen almost anywhere in Dubai, your neighbourhood park, a quiet stretch of sand, or any scenic spot where you can unroll your mat, breathe deeply, and stretch it out. Prefer a class setting? HWH Studio hosts outdoor sessions, including sunrise and sunset flows for all levels. Their Burj Al Arab location comes with full sea views, making it one of the city’s most stunning spots to practice.

SAL, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, daily, Dhs250 per person.

@hwhstudiodubai

Lace up and let go Sneakers on, headphones in, and you’re set. Whether you’re hitting a full-on run or just out for some fresh air to clear your head, Dubai’s beaches and waterfronts are calling your name. Hit Kite Beach, Dubai Canal, Dubai Creek Park, Meydan Sobha Cycling & Running Track, Marina Walk, Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, or JBR – city, sea, and stunning views all around.

Flow under the full moon

Swap studio lights for moonlight at Talise Spa. The Full Moon Yoga session happens outdoors, guiding you through breathwork, gentle stretches, and sound healing – plus a Rumi Earth yoga mat to take home to continue your practice. Beach by Celeste Pool, Jumeirah Al Qasr, monthly from 7.30pm onwards, Dhs300. @jumeirahalqasr

Detox in the desert

Feeling burnt out and need a full mental and physical reset? Just a short drive from the city, Bab Al Shams is perfect for dedicating a day (or weekend) to wellness. From guided meditation and desert yoga to sound healing, spa treatments, and nourishing meals, all set against scenic desert surroundings, it’s your reset button for your mind and body.

Bab Al Shams. @babalshamshotel

JOIN THE OUTDOOR FITNESS CREW

Cruise the desert on two wheels

Hit up Al Qudra Cycle Track for an epic, scenic ride through Dubai’s desert – 86 km of paved paths for all skill levels. Start near Last Exit Al Qudra for snacks, restrooms, and chill spots. Forgot your bike? Trek Bicycle Store sorts you out with rentals at the far end of the track. Open 24/7, it’s the perfect desert reset – just skip the midday sun.

Ride the waves

One of the city’s favourite spots for beach lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike, Kite Beach has something for everyone. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, you can try kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking – rentals are easy to grab. A 14km running track and beach volleyball courts keep the active crowd moving, while food trucks and cafés let you grab a smoothie, a fresh coconut, or a quick bite – so you can fuel up however you like after a run, a paddle, or a beach workout.

Flow above the city

Get active with weekly wellness classes at Aura Skypool. From Power Vinyasa and Dance Yoga to breathwork sessions and special collabs, there’s something for every vibe –whether you want to stretch, sweat, or reset your mind.

Aura Skypool, The Palm Tower. @auraskypool.dubai

Take your workout outside with MOVE at FIVE. The studio hosts outdoor group sessions including bootcamps and full body sculpt classes designed to build strength and fire up every muscle. They also operate their own community run club – complementary to join – for anyone who prefers to clock their miles outdoors.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah Hotel, daily, from Dhs125. @moveatfive

Picnic season isn’t over

Grab a basket and head to the green for the last days of outdoor season

Words: Lana Du

Beyond the high-rises and busy streets, Dubai has a quieter, greener side waiting to be explored. With this brief window of ideal weather in April, it’s the perfect time to pack a picnic and hit the city’s parks, lakes, and hidden green spots. Grab your friends or family and spend a chill day outdoors at these picnic spots in Dubai.

AL BARSHA POND PARK

Right in the heart of the city, this leafy park is perfect for a short trip out. Stroll the walking trails, cycle the paths, or rent a pedal boat to explore the pond. Sporty kids can take on the basketball courts, football pitches, and cycling track, while little ones can swing, slide, and burn off energy in the colourful playgrounds. Adults can bring their own food or grab a snack from the on-site shop or café.

Hatta Dam

Just outside the city, Hatta Dam is one of Dubai’s most picture-perfect spots. Mountains, calm waters, and wideopen space set the scene for a day of kayaking, hiking, or a picnic with a view – a laid-back adventure and a scenic escape from the city.

Safa Park

A city favourite, Safa Park spreads across 64 hectares with plenty of green space for picnics, jogging, and barbecues. Playgrounds keep the kids busy, while adults can relax in the park’s quieter areas.

Zabeel Park

Hit Zabeel Park for green lawns, shaded picnic spots, and plenty of space to spread out. Barbecue areas, pedal boats, and walking trails keep things fun, while the Dubai Frame adds a cool backdrop for your day out.

Creekside Park

One of the largest public green spaces in Dubai, Creekside Park runs along Dubai Creek with so much to explore. Wide-open lawns, gardens, playgrounds, and bike rentals make it easy to mix activity with downtime. Grab a spot, set up your picnic, and enjoy a laid-back day outdoors.

Al Qudra Lake

Al Qudra Lake is the go-to desert hang-out for a chill picnic. Spread out, watch the birds (there’s over 170 species), and catch the sunset across the open desert – total reset vibes.

Breakfast in the great outdoors

Rise and shine to get your day off to the best possible start

Words: Aarti Saundalkar

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and we’re not arguing. Choosing what and where to eat in the morning is crucial for setting the tone right. Bonus points if you catch some early sunshine while you’re at it. This list serves up the perfect combination of delicious morning bites and alfresco bliss.

Ula

Right on the sands of Dukes

The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel on Palm Jumeirah, Ula brings a relaxed yet stylish Mediterranean beachside experience. The design leans into boho-chic but remains elegant, offering uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. Start your day off with a sunlit breakfast where you’ll find fresh Greek yoghurt, pastries, lobster Benedict, smoked salmon and shakshuka on the menu. After, go for a soak in the beach or lounge by the pool.

@uladxb

Arabian Tea House

This renowned Emirati restaurant is tucked away in Old Dubai, nestled within the winding lanes of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. The leafy courtyard is dotted with trees and blooming bougainvillea, with views of traditional wind towers adding to the heritage charm. Sip Arabic teas or refreshing juices and enjoy authentic Middle Eastern dishes while seated at lace-covered tables on white rattan chairs or turquoise benches. @arabianteahouse

La Maison Ani by Chef Izu

BRUNCH & CAKE BY THE LAKE

This award-winning all-day dining concept has a knack for picking some of the most picturesque spots in Dubai, and Brunch & Cake by the Lake might just be its best yet. Alongside freshly risen treats from its in-house bakery and generous signature dishes, diners can soak up a tranquil, Instagrammable setting with relaxing music and cooler morning breezes. @brunchandcake

THE FARM, AL BARARI

If greenery is what your soul is seeking, head to The Farm, Al Barari. Set within the lush oasis of Al Barari, this idyllic dining spot feels worlds away from the city’s bustle. Surrounded by dense greenery, winding waterways and wooden decks overlooking tranquil lakes, it’s one of Dubai’s most picturesque places for an outdoor breakfast. A peaceful setting that pairs perfectly with the breakfast menu.

@thefarm_dubai

Located in the bougie heart of Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, La Maison Ani by Chef Izu recently relaunched its outdoor terrace. The elevated open-air dining space is a perfect staging point to enjoy the Dubai Fountain. The timber banquettes, reupholstered seating with refined fabrics, patterned parasols, decorative trellis elements and subtle landscaping create a stylish and inviting setting. For breakfast, choose from truffle scrambled eggs, shakshouka or vegan mango chia pudding, alongside organic coffee and freshly baked pastries, all served in a ambiance that perfectly balances Parisian café charm with modern Dubai flair. @lamaisonanidubai

French Riviera Beach

Bringing a slice of the Côte d’Azur to Dubai, French Riviera Beach offers a breezy alfresco setting along the waterfront in Jumeirah Al Qasr. The restaurant pairs sun-drenched terraces and relaxed beachside views with the gentle sounds of the sea. On the menu, you can choose from elegant classics such as chia au lait, the Camille croissant with bresaola, and, of course, eggs royale.

@frenchrivierabeach

Bungalo34

Tucked away on Pearl Jumeira Island, Bungalo34 is the spot for gentle sea breezes, a relaxed vibe, and fresh Mediterranean flavours across the family friendly menu. On the weekend, breakfast is served at the chic beachside situ with dishes like granola bowls, strapatsada, smoked salmon on toast, and hotcakes. All of this can be enjoyed amid playful artworks, bold colours, and carefully curated pieces from around the world.

@bungalo34

SEVA Table

Tucked away inside a leafy garden in Jumeirah, SEVA Table is your ticket to a tranquil alfresco breakfast. The barefoot-friendly courtyard is filled with trees, colourful cushions, wooden tables and soft music, creating a relaxed, almost bohemian escape from the city. The plant-based menu focuses on wholesome, nourishing dishes, from smoothie bowls and avocado toast to fresh juices and speciality coffees. There are books to browse, and if you feel like lingering a little longer (or need an excuse to return another day), you can sign up for a wellness class afterwards.

@sevaexperience

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN WHEN THE WORLD FEELS UNPREDICTABLE, CARVING OUT SMALL MOMENTS OF CALM CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. FROM WANDERING THROUGH PEACEFUL MUSEUMS TO IMMERSING YOURSELF IN NATURE, THESE UAE SPOTS OFFER GENTLE DISTRACTIONS AND QUIET SPACES TO RESET THE MIND

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Where: Al Saadiyat Island

There’s a quiet rhythm to wandering through the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Beneath Jean Nouvel’s vast geometric dome, sunlight filters through in what the architect famously calls a “rain of light”, dappling across pale stone and sea-facing walkways. Inside, galleries unfold slowly, tracing shared stories of humanity through art and artefacts from across centuries. It’s not a place that demands urgency. Instead, the calm architecture and expansive spaces encourage slow exploration, quiet reflection and the simple pleasure of walking without rush. louvreabudhabi.ae

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi

Where: Al Saadiyat Island

At first glance, teamLab Phenomena might seem the opposite of calm. The digital art space is filled with glowing colours, shifting projections and rooms that respond to movement. Yet the immersive nature of the installations has an unexpectedly soothing effect. Visitors drift slowly through luminous environments where flowers bloom across walls and particles of light ripple beneath your feet. There’s no set path or narrative to follow, which means you can simply wander and absorb the experience at your own pace. The result is surprisingly meditative.

teamlababudhabi.com

Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi

Where: Al Qana

Step into the butterfly gardens at Al Qana and the pace of the day instantly softens. Inside the climate-controlled biodomes, thousands of butterflies drift through lush greenery, past koi ponds and flowering plants designed to recreate tropical ecosystems. Wooden walkways guide visitors through the space, but the real pleasure comes from slowing down and simply watching. Butterflies land on fruit trays, leaves and occasionally a lucky visitor’s shoulder. It’s peaceful, and wonderfully grounding, a reminder that sometimes the most calming thing you can do is pause and observe something delicate unfolding in front of you.

butterflygardensabudhabi.com

Meditation

Where: Open Circle Yoga

Open Circle Yoga hosts weekly “meet and meditate” gatherings each Sunday, offering a quiet space to slow down and reset. In recent weeks, as tensions across the region have weighed on many minds, the community has also organised peace gatherings – gentle sessions where participants meditate together, share reflections in a circle and close with mantra chanting. Meditation has long been recognised for its ability to calm the nervous system, steady breathing and soften the mental chatter that builds during stressful periods. Practised in a group, it can also create a powerful sense of connection, a reminder that you’re not navigating uncertain moments alone. @opencircleyoga

Candlelit Yin and Sound Healing

Where: Breathe Yoga Studio

This delicious candlelit Yin and Sound session encourages a slower pace through long, restorative postures practiced in soft light. The aim is to release accumulated tension, regulate stress and allow the body to shift into its natural rest-and-repair state. The session concludes with immersive sound healing, the resonant tones helping to quiet busy minds and deepen relaxation. Embrace it as a deliberate pause, a moment to breathe, recalibrate and restore a sense of balance. The next session takes place April 5 at 7pm at Breathe Studio Abu Dhabi. @breatheyoga.studio

Tai Chi

Where: Bodytree Studio

Often called “meditation in motion,” Tai Chi offers a quietly powerful antidote to a world that rarely brings calm. The centuries-old Chinese practice pairs slow, flowing movements with controlled breathing, creating a rhythm that gently settles the nervous system. It may look graceful, almost dance-like, but beneath the calm exterior is a discipline designed to build balance, strength and mental clarity. In uncertain times, that combination feels particularly valuable. Give it a go at Bodytree Studio on Saturday mornings. bodytreestudio.com

Jubail Mangrove Park

Where: Al Jubail Island

A short drive from the city centre, Jubail Mangrove Park feels like stepping into a quieter world. A wooden boardwalk winds for two kilometres through mangrove forests and shallow waterways, offering a rare chance to walk slowly through one of Abu Dhabi’s most important natural ecosystems. Mangroves play a vital role in protecting coastlines and supporting wildlife, but they also provide something simpler for visitors, a moment of quiet. Walk the path, pause at a lookout point, and let the landscape do the calming. jubailisland.ae

Emirates Bio Farm

Where: Al Ain

Emirates Bio Farm offers a refreshingly hands-on way to reset the mind. Visitors can wander organic fields, pick seasonal vegetables and learn about sustainable farming in the UAE’s desert climate. It’s a simple activity, but a surprisingly therapeutic one. Pulling carrots from the soil or harvesting tomatoes encourages a slower rhythm, far removed from screens and daily pressures. emiratesbiofarm.com

Stargazing in the Desert

Where: Al Quaa Stargazing has long been known to quiet the mind, the vastness of space offering an instant shift in perspective. Arabian Wanderers runs guided trips to Al Quaa (widely considered the darkest spot in the UAE) where the Milky Way reveals itself in remarkable clarity. Join one of the April departures (11, 18 or 21), spread out a blanket and give your eyes time to adjust as constellations slowly emerge above the desert. Surrounded by silent dunes and far from city lights, the experience feels wonderfully grounding, a reminder that beyond the noise of the moment, the night sky remains constant. arabianwanders.com

24-Hour Support

Abu Dhabi has launched a 24-hour mental health support hotline, 800-SAKINA (725462), offering residents a confidential space to speak with qualified professionals about concerns affecting their wellbeing. The service is run by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi in partnership with Sakina, a specialist mental health network operating under SEHA, part of PureHealth. Callers can access psychological first aid and immediate guidance from trained experts. Available in Arabic and English, the hotline also includes support for children and families. Residents can seek help with issues such as anxiety, panic attacks, acute stress, sleep difficulties, or advice on managing existing mental health conditions during challenging periods.

Three wellness options worth downloading now

HEADSPACE

Mindfulness is made simple with Headspace. Led by former Buddhist monk Andy Puddicombe, the premise is to take 10 minutes a day to listen in and clear your mind. Users report better attention spans, alertness and instant calm.

CALM

With this paid membership, users have access to more than 700 guided meditations of varying types and lengths. There are also ‘Sleep Stories’ that can help you if you have a tough time drifting off each night.

INSIGHT TIMER

Insight Timer’s vast library of guided meditations can help with everything from easing you into sleep and reducing stress. They include cameos from celebrities from Moby to Giselle Bündchen.

BUILT ACROSS THE EMIRATES

Chefs, leaders and creatives share what makes the UAE a place where opportunity, culture and home come together

Nicolas Madueno

Executive Chef

Taj Hotel JLT

“My favourite thing about Dubai is its multicultural environment and the friendliness and respect that people show to one another. It is a city where you can experience so many different traditions and perspectives all in one place. What I truly enjoy is that you can discover something new every day: a new experience, a new place, or a new culture. It is difficult to describe, but Dubai has a unique energy that keeps evolving, and that makes it a special place.”

Simone Federici Founder & CEO

Antonia Group

“Coming from Italy, I brought a simple belief with me: Hard work pays off. Abu Dhabi gave me the opportunity to turn that belief into reality.”

Abdul Nassani Founder ALKEMY Salons

“Dubai is like a mother: it always guides you and nurtures you, encouraging you to keep evolving into a better version of yourself.”

Reif

Othman

Founder & Owner

Hotaru

Holdings/Sio Ramen Culinara

“My fondest memories of Dubai are the simple ones: eating shawarma in old Dubai, taking the abra from the Old Souk to Meena Bazaar, and watching the sunset over the shipping dhows at Al Ras. These moments capture the spirit of the city I call home – a place where people from all around the world come together as family.”

Mwangi John Chef

ULA, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

“As a chef, Ras Al Khaimah is more than a city to me… it became a part of life. It teaches you to respect ingredients, to be patient, and to cook with heart.”

Vernanne Crisp Executive Housekeeper

Dusit Thani, Abu Dhabi

“Abu Dhabi means growth, resilience and opportunity to me. Working in hospitality, you see Abu Dhabi at its best. There is a real sincerity in the community, where people look out for one another. It brings a sense of reassurance, stability and respect that allows you to grow and build a life.”

Mika Ueda

Restaurant Director

TakaHisa

“Dubai is a truly unique city and feels like my second home… it has given me many opportunities and is a truly unique city where cultures meet. The city also has an incredible food culture. From street food to fine dining, there are endless options and cuisines from all over the world. I really love experiencing so many different kinds of food here in Dubai. This is a city that welcomes those from afar who are ready for new challenges. Dubai is home to people who carry dreams with them.”

Carine Harb Cluster Director Radisson Hotels

“As a mother, there’s no greater gift than raising your children in a place that inspires them to believe in their future. Dubai gave my family that gift. Seventeen years later, this city isn’t just where we live. It’s where our story grew. It’s where our dreams took shape. It’s home. Thank you, Dubai, for holding our memories and shaping our future.”

Samantha

Cook

Food

& Travel Writer

“What makes Dubai truly special is its incredible diversity. People from all over the world come together here, bringing diverse cultures, perspectives, and stories that enrich and inspire everyday life. It’s also a place where I’ve always felt safe, a city where families thrive, friendships grow, and you can walk through life with peace of mind. But above all, Dubai represents opportunity. It’s a city that encourages ambition, celebrates hard work, and constantly reminds you that anything is possible if you’re willing to chase it.”

Chef Daniel Hillier Executive Chef

Sofitel Dubai The Palm

“One of my happy places remains a family picnic at Kite Beach. Fond memories of watching my nephews play and now seeing my two sons grow over the years. With the sunset and the Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa in the distance, shawarma wraps shared together make the moment complete.”

Alaa Alhadad Entrepreneur

House of Forte

“Dubai is home. Full stop, I came here when I was 10 years old, and this city raised me. This is where I belong. When I look at how this city has responded to every challenge it has ever faced, not by retreating, but by levelling up. I feel like that’s the only response I know, too. Dubai taught me that.”

Ajit

Head Chef

Rowley’s Restaurant

“Dubai is a city where dreams and flavours meet, a place where we push the boundaries of creativity every day. It’s not just about food; it’s about celebrating diverse cultures, sharing unique stories through flavours, and building memories around a table. Every ingredient, every dish, tells a part of the city’s story, making it one of the most exciting places in the world to cook and create.”

Saria Francis Founder

Concept Atelier

“Dubai gave me more than a place to live… it gave me safety, belonging, and the confidence to build a future for my family.”

Giovanni

Ledon Chef de Cuisine

Akira Back, W Dubai –

The Palm

“I love how people support and look out for one another and I’m proud to call Dubai home. I also enjoy breakfast at Mama’esh – the food and warm atmosphere make it truly special.”

Amal Oumasse AVP Marketing & Communications, Millennium Hotels & Resorts

Middle East & Africa

“What I admire most about Dubai and Abu Dhabi is their spirit of possibility – cities where cultures meet, dreams are built, and people from every corner of the world can feel at home while pursuing something greater. My favourite moments are often the simplest ones: watching the skyline evolve year after year, sharing a meal with friends from different nationalities, or witnessing how these cities always rise stronger in challenging times. For me, Dubai represents resilience, ambition, and gratitude – a place that gives you the space to grow, while constantly reminding you that the future can always be bigger than yesterday.”

Jorge

Rodriguez

Chef Patron & Founder

Taqueria Freedah

“Dubai is my home away from home. The city gave me opportunities to grow, learn from many cultures, and open a taqueria. Dubai means hard work, resilience and if you cook from the heart, anyone can join your table. In challenging times, the care from Dubai’s leaders reminds us that we are part of something greater than ourselves.”

Mohamad Chabchoul

Executive

Chef

Millennium Airport

Hotel Dubai

“Dubai inspires me every single day. The incredible diversity of people and ingredients here allows a chef to cook without borders, blending flavours, techniques and stories from different cuisines. In Dubai, food becomes a universal language and a way to connect people, celebrate cultures and share experiences.”

Paolo Petrocelli

Head of Dubai Opera

“Dubai represents possibility made real. It is a city that has shown the world how vision, courage and openness can transform a place into a global crossroads of ideas, cultures and ambitions. Few cities in history have had the courage to dream at this scale and actually deliver. Dubai is not just a place where the future is imagined; it is where the future is built, every single day. For me, it represents something deeply personal: the belief that culture, beauty and ambition belong together.”

Cluster Team voco Bonnington, Mövenpick JLT, and RIVA Beach Club

“Dubai is a city written in sunsets and skylines. For our teams across voco Bonnington, Mövenpick JLT, and RIVA Beach Club, Dubai represents the ultimate ‘Yes’ – a place where every culture finds a seat at the table. We experience the city through its textures: the crisp, modern elegance of a city staycation and the salt-air freedom of a day at the beach. What do we love most? The resilience. Watching this city evolve over the years has been like watching a friend achieve their wildest dreams. We don’t just work here; we live, celebrate, and thrive alongside a community that inspires us to be ‘daringly different’ every single day. It’s a tribute to the people who make it tick, and we are honored to have been part of the Dubai story for all these years.”

Garfield Kerr

CEO

Mokha 1450 Luxury

Specialty Coffee

“Dubai has given me a unique chance to build a thriving business and become a global leader in its category… it is now the most innovative coffee destination in the world.”

Eddy Maroun Co-founder Anghami

“I enjoy Dubai with gratitude. For the opportunities it gives us, the people it brings into our lives, and the system that makes everything possible. The infrastructure, the standards, the sense of order, it all creates a space where you can truly focus on building, growing and living fully.”

Roberto Segura

Founder & Head

Chef

CRUDO at Culinara, One Za’abeel

“Dubai is a place where ambition and opportunity meet. It’s a city that allowed me to build my restaurants, grow as a chef, and create a life for my children. My favorite moments are the simple ones sitting by the sea with my kids after a long day, knowing this city gave us the chance to dream bigger.”

Nina Shibly Chamlian Managing Director Qraft

Qommuniqations

“Dubai is the city where my dreams found their wings. I arrived 25 years ago with hope in my heart and ambition in my mind, and this extraordinary city gave me the space to grow, to build, and to become the woman I am today. It is where I built my career, built my company, created my home, and raised my daughters. For me, Dubai represents courage, opportunity, and the power of believing that anything is possible.”

Samuele Baudoino,

Executive Chef

Shangri-La and Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

“Abu Dhabi is my home away from home. Having lived in eight countries before, I can say without hesitation that Emiratis are among the most gracious and generous hosts. It’s truly a privilege to share this country with them.”

Pieter Van Beugen

General Manager

DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa, Ras Al Khaimah

“What makes Ras Al Khaimah so special is its peaceful and serene atmosphere. Surrounded by mountains, the sea, and lush landscapes, it’s a place where people can truly slow down and reconnect with nature.”

Jay Dogra Marketing Communications Manager

Andaz Capital Gate

“With more than three years here, I am constantly reminded that our true strength lies in how we stand for one another, as one. This unity is what defines us and it is why Abu Dhabi has always remained strong and will continue to do so, unwavering and united.”

Bernard O’Neill

Hotel Manager

Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort,

Abu Dhabi Corniche

“From weekend walks along the Corniche to discovering new flavours across the city, Abu Dhabi is full of moments that bring us together. It’s a place where tradition and progress exist side by side, and where both my family and I have grown, connected, and built lasting memories.”

Kyung Soo Moon

Group Culinary Director

Sunset Hospitality Group

“Dubai is a city of vision, ambition, and endless possibility. For someone in the hospitality industry, it’s truly inspiring to witness how quickly the city evolves – from innovative dining concepts to world-class hotels and experiences that set global standards. Dubai is not just a city; it’s a hub where creativity, culture, and excellence intersect, making it an exciting place to live, work, and push the boundaries of culinary expression.”

Wadad Zarzour

Chef Patron & Founder Doughbai

“Dubai is my home, my peace, and where my dreams came true. The city taught me that nothing is impossible. My children grew up in a welcoming, diverse community and the city’s growth inspired my dreams to grow, too. I never felt like a stranger – I felt like I belonged.”

Tony Haber

Founder and CEO

Alphamind

“Dubai, to me, is also the greatest example of resilience. It teaches you how to adapt, how to stay strong, and how to keep building, no matter the circumstances. In times of uncertainty, Dubai doesn’t slow down, it shows up. As a founder, that mindset has shaped everything I do. And ultimately, it’s the people. The teams we build, the culture we create, especially in our industry. In challenging times, you realise your people are your greatest asset.”

Evan Harrington

Cluster General Manager

Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island & Pullman Resort Al Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah

“Ras Al Khaimah inspires me through its creative heritage… it’s a place where history, craft and landscape constantly inspire creativity.”

EAT | DRINK | SHOP

BARRAFINA DUBAI

A seat at the counter, a plate of Spain, and a masterclass in why simple food, done properly, still wins

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

The spot

First, a little backstory. The original Barrafina opened in London’s Soho in 2007 and promptly taught the city a new competitive sport: queuing. In 2016 it moved to Dean Street; today there are five in London, each still pulling lines before the doors are unlocked. And now comes Barrafina Dubai landing in DIFC with confidence, the brand’s first international outpost beyond the UK and the first step in a wider GCC journey. This is counter dining done properly with 55 seats, the right-on-brand ruby-red leather stools, marble and stainless steel, and an open kitchen that puts chefs at the centre of the action.

The food

Barrafina reminds you what tapas should be: bites designed to be eaten hot, fast and in company. The buzz comes from the other side of the counter – the hiss of the Josper oven, and the cool, calm choreography of the chefs.

Onto the food and starting with the croquetas. These prawn-stuffed versions are unutterably good: crisp outside, molten within, rich and marine. Pan con tomate arrives on wide wedges of crusty sourdough, generously slicked with sweet, garlicky tomato, olive oil and chives.

The classic egg and potato tortilla divides opinion by design. This one is loose, just tipping into runny (the authentic way).

Ignore the blackboard of specials at your peril. On our visit it offered the crown jewel: Carabineros prawns. Two cardinal-red, deepsea beauties, simply cooked, dusted with sea salt. Deliriously good. Then there’s escalivada: coal-roasted

vegetables, skins charred then peeled, smoky to the core. So good we ordered it twice.

The service

Friendly and impressively unflustered. Plates appear when they should, with concise explanations given with a glorious Spanish lilt.

What’s on the bill

Pan con tomate (Dhs45). Patatas bravas (Dhs50). Classic tortilla (Dhs65). Prawn croquetas (Dhs75). Escalivada (Dhs60).

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

A thrillingly faithful, deeply pleasing Dubai debut. If there aren’t queues yet, give it time.

Location: Podium Level, Gate Village 1, DIFC

Times: Daily noon to midnight

Contact: (0)4 234 1543; @barrafinadubai

NATION RIVIERA BEACH CLUB

Beach days done properly

WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER

The spot

Nation Riviera Beach Club sits across the road from the Corniche, part of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. You get there through a private, air conditioned tunnel from the main hotel, which already feels a little exclusive. On the other side, there is a 200-metre stretch of beach and uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. It feels removed from the traffic and towers, like you have stepped into a small seaside escape in the middle of the city.

The vibe

This is a full day kind of place. Cabanas line the temperaturecontrolled pool and people move between sun lounger, jacuzzi and the swim-up bar without much urgency. Some are doing laps. Others are working on their tan.

the steady hum of a proper beach club day.

The food and drinks

The menu matches the setting. Fresh, simple and made for eating in swimwear.

The service

Service moves at a leisurely pace, which may test your patience – or perfectly suit the unhurried mood.

What’s on the bill

Families settle in, too. Treasure Island Kids Club, shaped like a pirate ship, keeps little ones entertained with a supervised pool area so parents can actually switch off. It feels relaxed and easy. No rush. No pressure to dress up. Just sun, water and

The poke bowl comes with your choice of salmon sashimi or grilled prawns, piled onto Japanese rice with avocado, edamame, jalapeño and a deep roasted sesame dressing. It is light, but filling, and tastes exactly like what you want by the water.

Then there is the buffalo chicken breast burger: cornichon, jalapeño, tomato, ranch sriracha mayo and aged cheddar. Messy in the best way. If you are calling this a cheat day, this is your order.

For something lighter, the seasonal fruit platter is bright and refreshing. The green goddess juice with coconut water, cucumber, spinach and kale feels virtuous without tasting like punishment. The detox tonic with ginger and beet has a proper kick.

Budget around Dhs250 per person for food and drinks, depending on how long you plan to stretch the day.

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

Everything feels better by the water.

Nation Riviera Beach Club is perfect for families, friends or anyone who needs to press pause for a few hours. The food is good, but the views are better.

Location: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Tower, Corniche, Abu Dhabi

Time: 8am to sunset

Cost: Mon to Fri, Dhs345 per person (Dhs150 credit), or Dhs625 per couple (Dhs300 credit). Sat and Sun, Dhs415 per person, Dhs685 per couple; Dhs95 for children

Contact: (02) 694 4780

WINDOW

A firey new bistro in Alserkal Avenue that’s nailed it

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

The spot

Great neighbourhood restaurants are magical little places. They’re the rooms you slip into when the outside world feels uncertain, and you need somewhere that promises warmth, good food and the quiet reassurance that things are broadly going to be alright. The best ones aren’t grand, they’re simply welcoming, softly lit, and run by people who seem genuinely pleased you’ve turned up.

Window, the new opening from Fyte Hospitality (the team behind Kokoro) looks

set to become exactly that sort of place. Tucked into the ever-evolving culinary enclave of Alserkal Avenue, it’s a cosy 32-seater, walk-in only, built around a long diner-style counter facing an open kitchen of roaring pizza oven, Josper grill and glowing coals. It’s a little toasty at the counter, but that’s part of the charm. This is a restaurant built around fire, and comfort.

The food

Running the kitchen is Argentine chef Gonzalo Platero, who looks entirely at home beside open flames. He previously headed the excellent Fyre pop-up at Ketura Reserve and has been a regular at Cucina Del Sul’s desert cookouts, where his barbecue set-ups suggest a man born for this place. The menu is punchy and instantly appealing. A cheese and spicy honey flatbread arrives blistered from the oven, molten and gently fiery. A wood-fired tomato salad is gloriously simple, the flame deepening the fruit’s sweetness. The burger, a neatly judged 150g stack with Monterey Jack, charred relish and soft bun, is juicy and deeply

savoury, served with excellent homemade fries. Steaks come properly kissed by flame, while a sweet, smoky Korean sweet potato proves so irresistible, we ordered it twice. Finally, for dessert, we chose a coffee flan, blasphemous to the chef’s mother, apparently, but silky and quietly magnificent.

The service

Similarly warm and lightly irreverent, much like at Kokoro. The team clearly know what they’re doing and, crucially, seem to be enjoying themselves while doing it.

What’s on the bill

Tomato salad (Dhs67)

Burger (Dhs150)

Steak and frites (Dhs250)

Cheese and spicy honey flatbread (Dhs75) Korean sweet potato (Dhs40)

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

The man sitting beside us mentioned he’d visited Window four times in the previous six days. At the time that sounded excessive. By the end of the meal it felt entirely reasonable.

Location: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz

Times: Tue to Sun 4pm to 2am

Contact: @window.dxb

COUCOU DUBAI

Where dinner slips into a fullblown night out, 52 floors up WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER

The spot

CouCou Dubai sits 52 floors up in The Palm Tower, with Dubai stretched out below like a glittering map. On one side, Palm Jumeirah curves into the dark; on the other, the coastline fades into the distance. It gives you that slightly unreal feeling of being lifted above the city’s pace, even if only for a few hours. It’s polished, a little flashy, and very clearly designed for people who aren’t ready to call it a night after dinner.

The vibe

Early evening is deceptively calm. Tables fill ever-so-quickly, but it’s still about conversation, the view, that first drink arriving cold against the heat outside. It almost leans romantic.

Then, almost without warning, it shifts. The music edges louder, the tempo picks up, and something in the room loosens. Halfway through your meal, you realise this isn’t just dinner. By the time dessert lands, it’s a different place entirely –sparklers cutting through the dark, smoke drifting across the room, staff weaving through tables like part of the performance.

The food

The menu leans into sharing plates –familiar territory, but executed well. The signature guacamole is bright and fresh, and disappears before you realise. Smoked beef bao comes soft and rich, while the crispy calamari hits that exact balance of crunch and salt you’re hoping for.

The burrata with pesto and cherry tomatoes is a standout: clean, creamy and a welcome reset before mains. From there, it splits: the milk-fed lamb cutlet with feta mix and spicy aubergine is indulgent and full-bodied, while the grilled Mediterranean sea bass with zucchini and artichoke purée keeps things lighter without feeling like a compromise.

Sides are simple but necessary –broccolini and roasted potatoes the standard crowd-pleasers.

Dessert is where you stop pretending to be restrained. The banana date cake arrives warm, rich, and just indulgent enough. It’s the dish you remember the next day. Order it and don’t overthink it.

The service

Service keeps pace with the night. Plates land when they should, drinks don’t stay empty for long, and when the room tips into party mode, the staff lean into it rather than stepping back.

What’s on the bill

Budget around Dhs800 for two for starters, mains and dessert. Drinks will push that higher – and once the music kicks in, you’ll probably stay for another round.

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

CouCou knows exactly what it’s doing. You come for dinner, but that’s rarely where it ends. The view pulls you in, the energy builds, and before long, you’re not watching the night unfold – you’re in it.

Location: The Palm Tower, Level 52

St. Regis – The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Time: Daily, 8pm to 2am

Contact: (052) 451 2188, @coucourooftop

SUNDAY LUNCH

THE BEAM DUBAI

A classy weekend treat from chef Nick Alvis

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

The Spot

Perhaps it’s because we just binged the latest season of Bridgerton, but Sunday lunch at The Beam feels faintly like dining in the drawing room of “the Ton”. It’s bright, airy and elegantly understated –quietly confident rather than showy. Sure, Dubai isn’t short on British-influenced restaurants, but few strike the balance between polished cooking and comforting familiarity quite like this. At the helm is Nick Alvis, a quietly influential figure in the city’s dining scene. He first made his mark here working under Jason Atherton and Gordon Ramsay at Verre by Gordon Ramsay in the early noughties before branching out with fellow chef Scott Price to launch folly. The Beam feels like the natural next chapter for Nick as he goes solo.

The food and drinks

The Sunday brunch unfolds over three generous courses, served family-style to the table. Starters arrive in abundance and immediately set a high bar. There’s

Wagyu carpaccio with pickled mushrooms and truffle, silky and fragrant; a beautifully cured salmon crudo with spring onion, basil and chilli; buttermilk crispy squid with sriracha; and a generous pulled burrata with sweet baby vine tomatoes. For mains, a Wagyu sirloin arrives beautifully cooked, while the whole sea bass is flaky with crisp skin. Both are truly excellent. But a word to the wise: spend the extra. For an additional Dhs190 for two, the Beef Cart Roast Dinner is wheeled to your table and carved with satisfying ceremony. The dry-aged beef (aged on-site and proudly displayed in gleaming fridges inside the restaurant) looks spectacular: blushing pink and meltingly tender. Desserts hold their own. The rhubarb crumble is the clear winner, sticky and

bursting with sharp-sweet flavour. Worth every carefully saved inch of stomach space.

Drinks flow freely throughout the afternoon. We happily stuck to Pimm’s, which feels like the only sensible thing to drink during a leisurely Sunday lunch.

The service

Polished and classy. Exactly what you want in a room like this.

What’s on the bill

Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house and pitchers, Dhs495 premium. Dhs145 children five to 12 years. Beef cart upgrade: Additional Dhs190 (for two people).

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

Sunday lunch at The Beam feels like the grown-up version of brunch.

Location: Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Times: Sun 1pm to 4pm Contact: (0)4 316 5550. thebeamdubai.com

THE FIVE DISHES THAT DEFINE EL PRIMO

Chef-owner Jonathan Colin shares the can’t-miss plates (and pours) that keep the new taqueria buzzing

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

Within industry circles, chef Jonathan Colin has been quietly revered for years –a chef whose precision and perspective were shaped in some of the world’s most exacting kitchens.

The Mexico City native cut his teeth at high-profile institutions, including Zuma Abu Dhabi and La Petite Maison (as well as its London and Hong Kong outposts), absorbing the discipline of globally polished brands while holding tight to the flavours of home.

Then, in 2022, he shifted gears.

K’IIN Supper Club was born; an intimate, storytelling-led dining experience. Guests gathered around the table, listening as Jon unpacked childhood memories of his grandmother’s kitchen, migration stories woven into Mexican cuisine, and the cultural nuance behind every chilli and sauce. It struck a chord.

Now, with the late-2025 opening of El Primo Taquería, Jon begins his most exciting chapter yet: a strippedback taquería serving the food he grew up eating. On weekends especially, the place is rammed with diners all squeezed in for trompo-carved tacos and ice-cold aguas frescas.

Here, Jon shares five of his favourite items on the menu, the plates (and pours) that best tell his story today...

01. Hibiscus & pomegranate juices

“In Mexico, agua de jamaica (hibiscus water) is a very popular drink, typically served cold and prepared fresh every day, that’s where the name aguas frescas (literally “fresh waters”) comes from. We wanted to give it a twist without drifting too far from the original flavour, so we added pomegranate juice, an ingredient widely loved and deeply rooted in Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s a small bridge between both cultures, while still respecting the Mexican classic.”

02. Wagyu Soujuk

“This dish has been very popular and beautifully received by the community. Even Mexicans are surprised by how

familiar the flavours feel, of course with that Middle Eastern spice profile. It’s familiar, yet different, and that balance is what makes it exciting.”

03. Chiles Toreados

“Chiles toreados is a traditional Mexican preparation where fresh green chilies are sautéed with onions and finished with lime juice and soy sauce. Even sushi spots in Mexico often serve this sauce, it’s very popular across the country.”

04. Tacos al Pastor

“Tacos al pastor were introduced to Mexico by Lebanese migrants during the large migration wave in the early 1900s. Mexicans adapted the technique by adding local ingredients like guajillo chilies,

achiote, and finishing it with pineapple on top. At El Primo, we build our trompo in the traditional way, layer by layer using chicken thighs and chicken breast. The chicken is marinated for 24 hours with guajillo chilies, orange juice, and achiote.”

05. Tuna Tostadas

“Tuna tostadas are loved because they offer another way to enjoy raw fish. I added it to the menu when I realised I could source fresh Bluefin tuna from Mexico and promote produce from back home.”

El Primo Taquería, Aswaaq Mall, Al Wasl Road, Tue to Fri 5pm to midnight, Sat and Sun 3pm to midnight (Monday closed). Tel: (0)4 388 1855. @taqueria_elprimo_dubai

THE BEST OF VISTA MARE

Palm Jumeirah’s quieter, residentfocused beachfront delivers a calmer, more understated counterpoint to the Palm’s typically high-octane scenes

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

West Beach is known as the Palm’s glossy, high-energy show pony – all basslines, branded beach clubs and the occasional queue for a sun lounger – but Vista Mare is the calmer, better-adjusted sibling. Sitting on the east shoreline of the Palm’s trunk, this resident-leaning stretch has always had good bones, but lately the line-up feels particularly solid. Less see-and-be-seen, more show-upand-eat-well. Think dog owners, happyhour catch-ups, weekend lunches, and a more laid-back beach club crowd.

Logs and Embers

Logs & Embers is unapologetically about meat, with big flavours and American smokehouse energy. Think smoked hot dogs, burgers and Texan-style sharing platters built for groups. It’s ideal for loweffort evenings when you want something simple but hearty by the beach, and the weekday happy hour doesn’t hurt either. Logs and Embers, Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, Mon to Thur noon to midnight, Fri noon to 1am, Sat and Sun 10am to 1am. Tel: (0)4 514 3778. @taphousepalmjumeirah

BeBabel

Flanking the top end of Vista Mare, BeBabel is Lebanese dining that knows how to dress for the beach without dumbing itself down. This is a more relaxed, Palm-friendly offshoot of the Babel name, polished but easy, social but not scene-y. The menu sticks close to crowd-pleasing territory: excellent hot and cold mezze, generous platters of grilled meats, and comforting classics like beef shawarma done properly. It works just as well as a location for a long family lunch as it does for sunset drinks with shisha.

BeBabel, Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, daily noon to midnight. Tel: (0)4 331 6770. @bebabeldubai

Logs and Embers

Canary Beach

The Maine’s sister brand has also slipped into Vista Mare, bringing a hit of laid-back Cali cool with it. Canary Beach is breezy and tactile, all warm tones and natural textures. The menu globe-trots without apology – yakitori here, crudo and sushi platters there, alongside sharing-friendly T-bones and paellas – all pitched squarely at the table-in-the-middle crowd. Coastal, crowd-pleasing food, yes, but it’s the atmosphere that really seals the deal. It’s stylish and fun, with the option to dine right from sun loungers on the sand. Canary Beach, Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, daily 11am to 1am. Tel: (0)4 584 5999. @canaryclubdxb

Limonata

Limonata brings a hit of Italian sunshine to the Vista Mare promenade, leaning hard into colour and charm. All yellow-and-orange, it’s familyfriendly without feeling childish, relaxed without being forgettable. You can dine inside, on the terrace, or from a lounger on the sand – very la dolce vita, Palm edition. The menu keeps things crowd-pleasing with antipasti, salads, pizzas and pasta.

Limonata, Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, daily noon to midnight (1am Fri, Sat and Sun). Tel: (0)58 140 5777. @limonatadubai

The Maine Beach House

All hail Vista Mare’s newest addition: The Maine Beach House, the first beach club outing for the now-legendary homegrown brand. Expect New England comfort food translated for Dubai’s shoreline without losing its soul – lobster rolls, oyster plates and well-executed classics, backed by reliably good service. The mood is relaxed and family-friendly (think more Studio City than Business Bay), with an unfussy charm that makes it easy to settle in. Whether you’re on the terrace or stretched out on a lounger, this one’s a fail-safe.

The Maine Beach House, Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, daily noon to midnight. Tel: (0)4 3265 545. @themainedxb

Ibn Al Bahr

Ibn Al Bahr remains one of the Palm’s most straightforwardly good seafood restaurants, and its refusal to overcomplicate things is precisely the point. Nautical touches (ropes, anchors, even a boat) set the scene, but the real action happens at the fish counter, where you pick your catch and choose how it’s cooked. Grilled, fried or baked, the flavours are clean and confident. It’s a proper family gathering spot, which means big tables, bustling energy and, these days, a fairly tight squeeze. Nab a terrace table if you can, and enjoy.

Ibn Al Bahr, Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, daily 9am to 2am. Tel: (800) 42625 2247. @ibnalbahr

The Tap House

Vista Mare’s pub, and a very competent one at that. The Tap House brings its award-winning gastropub credentials to Vista Mare with one of the region’s best craft beer selections and a solid menu. Burgers, pub classics and comfort food hit the spot, while Sunday roasts (Nan’s British Roast is a firm favourite) make this a weekend staple for Palm residents.

The Tap House, Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, daily noon to 1am (2am Fri and Sat). Tel: (0)4 514 3778. @taphousepalmjumeirah

SCULPTURAL CANDLE

Bubble Big Candle, IkkiU, Dhs1,600 each, ikkiu.com

Designed as a sculptural object of light, this bold candle features a playful bubble silhouette that doubles as a striking décor piece. Infused with pink vanilla and saffron, it fills the room with a warm, elegant fragrance while adding a contemporary statement to any interior.

CLOSER TO HOME

Good design doesn’t have to travel far – these are the local names getting it right

WORDS: LANA DU

While many of the brands we use day-to-day come from abroad, some of the best are born right here where we live. Showing love to the community starts with

ANKLET

Oula 18K Gold & Enamel Anklet, Bil Arabi, Dhs3,950, bilarabi.com

Part of Bil Arabi’s signature Oula collection, this delicate anklet reflects simplicity and refined craftsmanship.

supporting local – keeping creativity close to home and helping independent businesses grow. From fashion and jewellery to homeware and fragrance, here’s where to shop local.

LIQUID BLUSH

Blush Filter Liquid Blush, Huda Beauty, Dhs114, hudabeauty.com

A lightweight liquid blush designed to create a soft-focus, airbrushed glow. The buildable formula blends smoothly into the skin, while finely milled micropearls add a luminous pop of colour with impressive staying power.

Crafted from 18K yellow gold with colourful enamel accents, it brings a refined and elegant touch to the ankle.

SILK ACCESSORY

Lebanon Summer Edition

Twilly, Lilly The Twilly, approx. Dhs367, lillythetwilly.com

A versatile silk accessory, wear it around the neck, tie it on a handbag, wrap it in your hair, or around your wrist for a subtle pop of colour and personality.

GOLD CHOKER

Eye of Protection Choker, Oria, 18K yellow gold with mother-of-pearl evil eye and hematite beads, Dhs1,200, oria.jewelry

A delicate 18K yellow gold chain centred with an evil eye mother-of-pearl stone and finished with circular hematite beads. Elegant yet symbolic, this Oria choker brings a refined touch of protection and subtle shine, designed to wear alone or layer effortlessly with other fine necklaces.

CLUTCH

Leora Octo Clutch in Clear, L’Afshar, Dhs3,175, lafshar.com

With its geometric shape and transparent finish, this statement clutch has a striking, jewel-like presence. The clear acrylic design is paired with a silver metallic pouch inside, combining sculptural style with practical elegance.

TOP

Dalia Top in Burgundy, Bouguessa, Dhs1,600, bouguessa.ae

Tailored and elegant, the Dalia top is crafted in a rich burgundy shade that adds depth to any wardrobe. Its clean lines and refined silhouette reflect Bouguessa’s signature minimalism, making it a versatile piece that transitions from day to evening.

PERFUME

Vanilla Romance, O Fragrance by Ola, 50ml Dhs250 / 100ml Dhs350, obyola.com

Warm, sensual and elegant, this fragrance blends coconut powder, bergamot and saffron with a rich heart of Madagascar vanilla, oud and Bulgarian rose. It settles into a smooth base of musk, amber, sugar cane, palo santo and tonka bean, creating a soft yet addictive scent with lasting depth.

BODYSUIT

Luma Bodysuit, Reverve, Dhs475, reverveactive.com

Designed in a soft dusty rose clay shade, this longsleeve bodysuit features an open back and a flattering mid-thigh cut that elegantly frames the silhouette. Feminine yet functional, it moves from studio sessions to layered everyday styling, offering comfort, performance and a polished activewear look.

DRESS

Amélie Dress in Blush Pink, Freja, Dhs530, frejawear.com

Light, romantic and effortlessly feminine, this flowy dress is crafted from airy crepe with delicate white lace accents. Finished with slim spaghetti straps, it’s perfect for seaside strolls, relaxed brunches or sunset evenings.

HOODIE

Oversized Zip Hoodie, The Giving Movement, Dhs599, thegivingmovement.com

Comfort meets conscious design in this oversized zip hoodie crafted from organic cotton and recycled polyester. Featuring a relaxed fit, hood and kangaroo pocket, it’s a cosy everyday staple that pairs with casual or lounge looks.

HAIR MASK

PERFUME

The Wedding Silk Santal 36, Kayali, Dhs559, kayali.com

Bright, uplifting and romantic, this elegant fragrance opens with sparkling champagne and delicate white freesia.

A heart of pink praline and juicy nectarine adds a sweet warmth, while sugared musk and creamy sandalwood create a smooth finish.

LINEN THROW

Double Linen Throw, Heveya, 100% European flax linen, Dhs950, heveya.ae

Nutri-Plenish Hair Mask Nectar Noir, AÏZA, 200ml, Dhs149, aiza.co

An in-shower treatment designed to revive dull, dry hair with deep hydration and shine. Enriched with black seed oil and honey extract, this rich mask melts into the hair to smooth, soften and restore bounce. With biotech hydra-oils and vitamin B5 to strengthen and boost elasticity, it leaves strands feeling fuller and stronger.

Crafted from a double layer of premium European flax linen, this breathable, generously sized throw brings texture and warmth to any interior. With softly fringed edges and a naturally rustic finish, it drapes beautifully over beds or sofas and can double as a lightweight blanket.

GIFT BOX

Palmier Box, Post My Gift, Dhs680, postmygift.com

Inspired by relaxed Mediterranean gatherings, the Palmier Box brings warmth and charm to the table. A playful mix of natural textures, breezy linen and stylish table accents, it’s perfect for hosting and creating elegant place settings.

WHAT’S ON THIS APRIL

Festivals, gigs and a handful of good reasons to leave the house

WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR AND LEONIE WAGNER

Get your diaries out as the UAE in April is hosting a lineup of gigs, performances, comedy shows and family-friendly festivals. From harmonious orchestras and cultural favourites to festivals, there’s something for all tastes and ages.

[DUBAI]

Harvest Festival Spring Edition in Dubai

When: April 4

Where: Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai

Celebrate the season at Harvest Festival: Spring Edition, a colourful family event taking place under the iconic Al Wasl Dome. It’s here where you’ll find vibrant décor, interactive games, a retail market spotlighting local brands and a showcase of fresh produce from Emirati farms. Kids can dive into Easter egg hunts, play on bouncy castles, get creative in hands-on workshops and join family-friendly races, with most activities included in the ticket. The festival also features the high-energy Rashid and Latifa On Wheels ride, where children can cycle, scoot or skate along a dedicated route. Just remember to register in advance and bring your own wheels and helmet.

Tickets from Dhs50. @expocitydubai

Abu Dhabi Festival

When: April 12 to May 16

Where: Various venues across Abu Dhabi

A major season of music, ballet and standout performances arrives in the capital this month as the Abu Dhabi Festival returns for its 23rd edition. Set across landmark venues including Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental and Etihad Arena, the programme is tightly curated and globally minded. Highlights include an opening-night performance by Jon Batiste (April 12), an intimate appearance by the American Ballet Theatre (April 17), and Dhafer Youssef leading his quintet through cross-cultural soundscapes on April 14.

Ticket prices vary. @abudhabifestival

Symphonic

Ibiza

When: April 24

Where: Expo City Dubai

Picture this: A largescale live experience that blends together the epic dance culture of Ibiza and the power of a full orchestra, live vocalists and a DJ. This is the experience heading to Expo City Dubai in April. Buckle up for a dance floor tour through euphoric club classics and modern electronic anthems in a symphonic format, transforming legendary dancefloor moments into a powerful live concert experience. Tickets from Dhs249. @symphonicibiza

The Laughter Factory

When: April 10 to 12, 16 to 18

Where: Various locations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi

For a guaranteed mood lift, our country’s biggest and best comedy club, The Laughter Factory, returns this April with a curated bill. Leading the lineup is South African comedian Robby Collins, whose award-winning wit sets the tone, alongside the fresh and fearless Valentina Danubio and Northern English funnyman John Hague. Completing the bill, poet and storyteller Viswajit Dilip brings a more lyrical edge, weaving humour through engaging narratives. Tickets from Dhs140. thelaughterfactory.com

Atif Aslam

When: April 19

Where: Coca-Cola Arena

Pakistani superstar Atif Aslam returns to CocaCola Arena this April, ready to sweep the city into another night of pure musical delight. With five consecutive sold-out shows in Dubai already under his belt, this is one comeback you’ll want to catch before the tickets vanish. Expect those signature, soul-soaked vocals to carry you through everything from beloved hits like Tajdar-e-Haram, Jeena Jeena and Pehli Nazar Mein to crowd-rousing favourites such as Dil Diyan Gallan and Aadat.

Tickets from Dhs250.

@cocacolaarena

[ABU DHABI]

Candlelight: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons

When: April 18

Where: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Love classical music? Treat yourself to a night packed with candlelight and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. The Gulf String Quartet delivers a 65-minute soulful sound bath, bringing one of classical music’s most iconic scores to life in a fully immersive, multi-sensory experience. Arrive on time as seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tickets from Dhs245. @candlelight.concerts

[SHARJAH]

Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival

When: April 22 to May 3

Where: Expo Centre Sharjah

HYPEROUND KFEST

When: April 18

Where: Etihad Arena

K-Pop fans, HYPEROUND KFEST Abu Dhabi 2026 is making a return this April, and it’s bigger and bolder than the first edition. The one-day performance features Enhypen, Ten, Fifty Fifty, Dabin.kr, and Artms performing on one stage with an upgraded production. Included within the cost of admission: strong vocals and choreography you can’t help but dance along to.

Tickets from Dhs200. @etihadarena.ae

Verdi’s Opera Gala

When: April 21

Where: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Marking 125 years since the passing of Giuseppe Verdi, this Opera Gala sees the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra take to the stage under the baton of Giacomo Sagripanti, joined by soprano Maria Agresta and tenor Giorgio Berrugi. The programme features a selection of Verdi’s best-known works, from Nabucco and I Vespri Siciliani to Otello and La Traviata, with a mix of overtures, arias and duets highlighting the composer’s lyrical style and enduring influence on opera.

Prices from Dhs125. @abudhabifestival

The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival celebrates books, creativity and imagination. Beyond interactive workshops, author sessions and hands-on activities, the whole family can enjoy live performances ranging from theatre and music to immersive storytelling experiences. It is free to attend, however certain workshops will require registration or a ticket. @sharjahbookauthority

SUMMER IN NASHVILLE

Dubai Media City Amphitheatre hosts a weekend of country music, barbecue and bootscootin’ fun this month

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

If travelling isn’t top of the agenda right now, we get it. With the general unpredictability of the world, the idea of hopping on a long-haul flight can feel less appealing than usual. But if there’s one thing the UAE does well, it’s carrying on regardless – enjoying life, gathering with friends, and finding ways to bring the world to our doorstep.

Which is exactly the spirit behind Summer in Nashville, the country music festival that’s returning this month to the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. For one lively weekend, the grassy amphitheatre will transform into a slice of Tennessee, complete with twanging guitars, smoky barbecue, cowboy hats and line dancing.

Because if flannel belongs to Seattle and po’ boys belong to New Orleans, then music belongs to Nashville. Known universally as “Music City”, Nashville has long been the beating heart of country music. And while Dubai may be a long way from Tennessee, the city has never been shy about embracing other cultures, particularly when they come with a great soundtrack.

Here’s what to expect when Summer in Nashville rolls into town…

COUNTRY MUSIC APLENTY

At the centre of the festival is, unsurprisingly, the music.

Headlining the live performances is Country Bound, widely regarded as the UK’s top country covers band. Expect a setlist stacked with country hits. Alongside them are tribute shows celebrating some of the genre’s biggest modern stars, including Zach Bryan, Lainey Wilson and Luke Combs. Their storytelling style (heartfelt lyrics wrapped in big, arena-ready hooks) has helped push country music firmly into the global mainstream.

Also on the lineup are regional and touring performers such as Robbie McMinn, Aaron Reilly, Lauren Claire Townley, and the lively The Rooftop Riffs.

COUNTRY-OKE

For those who’ve always fancied themselves a bit of a country star, the festival’s Countryoke sessions might be the highlight. It’s karaoke, but with a twist: instead of a backing track, you’ll be singing alongside a live band. Whether you attempt a heartfelt ballad or a boot-stomping anthem, the idea is simple, just grab the mic, channel your inner Swiftie and enjoy the applause.

Even if you’re not brave enough to

April 18

take the stage, it’s usually one of the most entertaining parts of the day.

LINE-DANCING

Country music and line dancing are practically inseparable, and the festival makes sure there’s plenty of opportunity to join in. The Bootscott line dancing crew will be running sessions throughout the day, guiding beginners through the basics while seasoned dancers spin, stomp and shuffle with impressive ease. Don’t be surprised if you arrive intending to watch and leave knowing a routine or two.

A TASTE OF THE AMERICA SOUTH

Of course, no Nashville-inspired gathering would be complete without food. Expect plenty of American-style barbecue such as

smoky brisket, pulled meats, grilled corn and all the comfort-food sides that make Southern cooking so beloved. Alongside the barbecue stands will be a mix of street food vendors serving festival favourites.

RODEO RIDES AND GAMES

Music may be the backbone of the event, but Summer in Nashville leans into the playful side of festival culture, too. There’s a mechanical rodeo bull for anyone feeling brave, axe throwing lanes for those who want to test their aim, and a nostalgic Tin Can Alley game zone where old-school carnival challenges come into play. Add to that a country fancy-dress atmosphere, and the entire event takes on the feeling of a laid-back Southern fairground. And if you arrive early enough, you might even score one of the 500 free cowboy hats being handed out across the weekend.

You may not be strolling down Broadway in Tennessee, but sitting on the grass at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, listening to guitars twang as the sun dips behind the skyline, isn’t a bad substitute.

Summer in Nashville Festival, Media City Amphitheatre, Dubai, Dhs175 general admission, Dhs75 for under 21s, Dhs25 under-fives. summerinnashville.com/dubai

THE GREAT DINO ESCAPE

Roar-some spots for dino encounters in the UAE

WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR

If your idea of a great day out involves a little roar and a lot of wonder, you’re in luck.

Across the UAE, dinosaurs are stomping back to life in museums, theme parks and immersive attractions that turn a simple outing into a fullblown prehistoric adventure. Expect lifelike giants, interactive exhibits and plenty of moments that’ll have little explorers wideeyed in amazement

Natural History Museum, Abu Dhabi

After waiting what feels like a few million years (very on brand for dinosaurs), the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi opened its doors in November 2025. At 35,000 square metres, it is the largest museum of its kind in the region and aims to take visitors on a journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history.

The museum explores life on earth from the Big Bang to the rise of humans, including the evolution of dinosaurs and the planet’s biodiversity. The museum brings the prehistoric giants to life, with towering skeletons and lifelike models that give a sense of how these creatures once roamed the Earth.

Visitors can explore interactive displays, see bones up close, and learn about different species and their habitats. The highlights: Stan – one of the world’s most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeletons, and two apex predators locked in battle (based on fossil evidence). Follow their social media channel as they share interesting videos from assembling original T-Rex skeletons into rare displays to how fossils are mounted and more.

Location: Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island

Date/Time: 10am to 6:30pm on weekdays and until 8:30pm on weekends

Cost: Dhs70

Contact: nhmad.ae

Dinosaurs: The Immersive Odyssey

This new immersive and interactive experience at Dubai Festival City invites you to step into the world of dinosaurs. From exploring a museum storage space where no visitors are usually allowed to walking among life-sized dinosaurs through a VR simulation and grabbing a photo with life-sized animatronic creatures for the ‘Gram – it’s an attraction the whole family can enjoy.

Post your explorations, relax and enjoy the creative activities. You can also shop for a dino-themed gift or souvenir. Just, don’t be an oviraptor and leave the eggs alone.

Location: Dubai Festival City Mall, Level 2, Dubai

Date/Time: Mon to Thurs 10.30am to 9.30pm, Fri to Sun 10.30am to 11pm

Cost: From Dhs79

Contact: dinosaursodyssey.com

Lost Valley - IMG World of Adventures

If just seeing dinosaurs doesn’t thrill you enough, head to Lost Valley and you can experience them through hair-raising rides and themed activities. Hop on the The Forbidden Territory cruise and get up-close with the dinosaurs complete with smoke, strobe lights and dramatic sounds. For thrills, The Velociraptor is sure to spike your heart rate, and Predator takes you on a vertical plummet to earth. For a tamer ride for little ones, there’s a dino carousel and a sand play area with slides for toddlers. For a tasty chomp, there’s a dino-themed restaurant serving Indian cuisine buffet-style called Spice Valley and casual sit-down cafeteria, 360 Express.

Location: Wadi Al Safa 4, City of Arabia

Date/Time: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 10pm, Fri and Sat 12pm to 11pm

Cost: Dhs365 (Ramadan and Eid offer)

Contact: 04 403 8888. imgworlds.com

DUBAI GARDEN GLOW

Dubai Garden Glow is possibly the brightest spot in the city. We’re talking sculptures made from vibrant lights that you could most likely see from space (on a very clear day). After a little makeover, it shifted closer to the Dubai Frame with two new attractions in one: Fantasy Park and Dinosaur Park.

Dinosaur Park brags a thrilling collection of lifelike animatronic creatures. Don’t worry, they don’t bite, so you can snap the perfect photo and even pick up a few fun educational facts along the way. It is said to be the largest dinosaur park and is home to a towering T-Rex, the more gentler dinosaurs, and realistic soundscapes that transport you straight to the Jurassic era.

Location: Zabeel Park near Al Jafiliya Gate 3, Area A

Date/Time: Daily 10am to 9pm

Cost: Dhs73.50 (ticket gets you access to Dinosaur Park and Fantasy Park)

Contact: dinosaurparkdubai.com

Nat Geo Ultimate Explorer Abu Dhabi

National Geographic has always taken its mission to educate, entertain and inspire and as the Middle East’s first National Geographic Ultimate Explorer, this regional mission is now a much more hands-on one. The activity centre at The Galleria Al Maryah Island is an edutainment complex offering exciting attractions aimed at captivating little ones. From discovering the wild connections between past to the present, learning how scientists uncover fossils and more, kids are sure to have a roaring good time. Beyond dinosaurs, kids can build a robot, become an astronaut, and step into the shoes of a geologist.

Location: The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Maryah Island

Date/Time: Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10pm to 12am

Cost: From Dhs30 (all attractions)

Contact: 052 403 7166. natgeouxad.com

UNIQUE STAYS

T-Rex Glamping

Did you know you can sleep amongst dinosaurs right here in Dubai? And no, we don’t mean up in a tree with a brachiosaurus waking you up (although, that would be cool). We mean, the Trex Glamping spot at Dubai Parks & Resorts. It’s an all-new glamping experience, the first of its kind retreat and unlike anything else in the region.

The escape invites explorers and dinosaur enthusiasts to stay in a luxury-meets-prehistoric-adventure setting. Tents are based on different prehistoric eras, from Triassic Megapods to T-REX Terahavens. Opt for the Signature Jurassic Tents, which include garden views and BBQs, or the Premium Tent with private pools and added luxuries.

Besides taking photos with the animatronic dinosaurs, little ones can dig and discover hidden fossils at the Excavation Site, watch the past come alive at the Lava Watchpoint, or swim in the Dinosaur Footprint Pool. Post sunset, you can watch a movie under the stars while the little ones enjoy playtime at the dedicated Kids’ Academy. For meals, dine at the dinothemed Roaring Dinosaur Café and Splashing Raptor pool bar.

Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road, Saih Shuaib 1

Cost: Prices start from Dhs360 for one night per room

Contact: (800) 2629464, dubaiparksandresorts.com

DINE

T-Rex Adventure Cafe

Located not too far away from the T-Rex Glamping site, you will find Dubai’s first dinosaur-themed restaurant at Riverland Dubai. Outside, you will spot dinos perched on the roof, while inside, raptors are hiding between tables. Pair it with plenty of hanging vines and you’ll feel like you’ve teleported back in time. You can even dine al fresco by the river. On the menu, you’ll also find popular dishes named after dinosaurs including Caesar saladasaurs, nachosaurus, dino wings, veloci-velvet cheesecake and much more. Oh, and no. Your eyes aren’t deceiving you – the chef is a T-Rex with tiny arms. He’s called Rex.

Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road, Saih Shuaib 1

Date/Time: Daily 10am to 11pm

Contact: (800) 2629464, dubaiparksandresorts.com

The April Wellness Map

Your month-long guide to rediscovering the joy of simply feeling good in your body

WORDS: LANA DU

Wellness rarely comes from one big decision. It’s usually the smaller things – the habits you come back to, the routines that start to stick. A morning stretch that wakes you up properly. A workout that leaves you tired in a good way. A treatment that helps you reset before the week runs away with you.

This month’s edit brings together the classes, events and rituals across the UAE that are worth making time for. Not to overhaul everything – just to feel a little more balanced as April moves on.

WEEK ONE: START STRONG

Kick off the month with energy while staying balanced. Think community wellness events, full-body workouts and a little recovery to set the tone for the weeks ahead.

FAB Cycling Festival

A weekend for cycling enthusiasts of all levels, the FAB Cycling Festival brings together community rides, competitive races and family-friendly challenges in one high-energy event. Rather than a single race, expect a mix of experiences – from relaxed group rides to fast-paced races and skills sessions – all set across Hudayriyat Island’s purpose-built, traffic-free cycling tracks. Routes and distances vary depending on the activity, making it just as accessible for beginners as it is for more experienced riders.

When: April 3-5

Where: Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi

Cost: Free

Contact: fabcyclingfestival.com

Recover with a midweek spa treatment By midweek, you’ll feel it. A proper hammam, a deep exfoliation, or a focused massage can make all the difference – especially after a few active days. Sometimes recovery is the most productive thing you can do.

Remède Spa

Reset with a hammam ritual to deeply cleanse and purify followed by a fullbody exfoliation or a deep-tissue massage to release tension and muscle soreness. Where: Remède Spa, St. Regis

Abu Dhabi

Cost: Traditional Hammam, 60 minutes, Dhs790; Performance massage, 60 minutes, Dhs750

Contact: stregisabudhabi.com

Banyan Tree Spa

Treatments range from Balinese massages and scrubs to herbal facials and ritual-style sessions. The standout: the Rainforest Experience – a private hour with sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and tropical shower.

Where: Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island

Cost: Dhs1,100 for the 120-minute Rainforest Experience

Contact: banyantree.com

WEEK TWO: KEEP THINGS MOVING

This is where consistency matters more than intensity. Low-impact, regular movement that fits into your routine – and keeps you coming back.

Book a reformer Pilates session

If you’re looking to refine your practice, this is where you focus. Smaller classes, more attention to form, and sessions that leave you feeling stronger rather than just tired.

Pilates Lab

If you love reformer Pilates and want to really hone in on your practice, this is the spot. Pilates Lab keeps it simple – they do a few things, but they do them exceptionally well. From open-level group reformer classes, reformer core and advanced sessions to one-on-one coaching and sports massage.

Where: International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi

When: Daily – check class schedule at pilatesabudhabi.com

Cost: From Dhs135 per class

Contact: @pilateslab.ae

Join a new yoga class

A good studio makes all the difference. These sessions are structured but not rigid – enough to challenge you, without feeling overwhelming first thing in the morning.

Vera Wellness

Start your mornings with this newly launched class that stretches, strengthens, and leaves you feeling energised and focused. Led by experienced instructors, it’s suitable for all levels – from beginners to regular practitioners.

Where: Vera Wellness, Villa No. 3, Umm Al Wasl Road, Opposite J3 Mall, Umm Suqeim, Dubai

When: Daily from 7am to 8pm

Cost: Yoga from Dhs120; Pilates from Dhs450

Contact: verawellness.ae

Antara Yoga

Hot yoga sessions designed to boost flexibility, detoxify the body, and improve cardiovascular health in a heated environment. This intense practice helps enhance both physical and mental wellbeing, suitable for all levels.

Where: Antara Yoga, Al Rahah, Al Muneera, Abu Dhabi

When: Daily – check class schedule at antarayogapilates.com

Cost: Contact studio directly for pricing

Contact: antarayogapilates.com

Balans Studios

This light-filled studio, dressed in tones of cream, feels made for Pilates. Equipped with modern reformers and framed by wall-to-wall mirrors, the space leans into a clean, minimal aesthetic while still giving you room to move without feeling crowded. Beyond the main studio, you’ll find plans for added amenities including a cold plunge room, coffee area, massage and physiotherapy spaces, as well as a dedicated studio for aerial yoga and stretching.

Where: Emaar 52/42, Dubai Marina, Dubai

Cost: Starting from Dhs155 per class

Contact: @balansstudios

Try candlelight Yin yoga

Unwind with this meditative Yin yoga class, where poses are held for 3-5 minutes to stretch connective tissues, improve flexibility, and release tension. Candlelight sets the mood, creating the perfect environment to let go and reconnect with your body and mind.

Where: Karma Yoga, Marina Plaza, 33rd floor, Dubai Marina, Dubai

When: Daily classes

Cost: Starting from Dhs250 Contact: @karmayogadubai

WEEK THREE: PICK UP THE PACE

By now, you’ve found your rhythm. This is the time to push it slightly –something structured, something social, and something that reminds you why you started.

Expo City Dubai Half Marathon

Set in the heart of Expo City Dubai – one of the UAE’s most iconic and futuristic destinations – this community race offers a truly unique running experience. Runners of all levels can choose from 5km, 10km, or the full half marathon (21.1km).

The course winds through wide boulevards and past inspiring pavilions, showcasing stunning architecture and vibrant Expo sites, with plenty of pictureperfect views along the way.

Where: Expo City Dubai, Jubilee District, Madinat Al Mataar, Dubai South, Dubai

When: Sunday, April 19, 6am to 12pm

Cost: Starting from Dhs150

Contact: expocitydubai.com

Hudayriyat cycling and running track

A scenic waterfront fitness hub just outside central Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island offers traffic-free cycling loops from 5 km to 15 km, alongside running and jogging paths that follow the water and green spaces with stunning skyline and sea views. Perfect for sunset rides, solo runs, or social workouts, the island also features bike rentals, rest spots, and dedicated areas for BMX and mountain biking.

Where: Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi

When: Daily, 5am to 12am

Contact: hudayriyatisland.ae

TrainYAS

Walk, run, or cycle along the iconic 5.28 km Yas Marina Circuit during free community sessions. Open to all levels, this is a unique chance to train on a Formula 1 track. Complimentary bikes and helmets are available in limited sizes.

Where: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

When: Mondays & Wednesdays, 6pm to 10pm

Cost: Free Contact @ymcofficial

WEEK FOUR: SLOW IT DOWN

The last stretch is about recovery. Proper rest, slower movement, and giving your body the space to reset before the next cycle begins.

Check into a wellness retreat

If you can step away for a night or two, this is where you fully reset. Treatments, movement, good food, and space to breathe – it’s less about doing everything, more about doing less, properly.

Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat

Head out to Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat for a spa day that feels like a mini getaway. Choose from signature treatments including cryotherapy, the Moroccan Bath Experience, Island Lava Shell Massage, Traditional Thai Massage, or the Magnesium Recovery body treatment. You can also join a yoga session, all set against the resort’s serene, Santorini-inspired surroundings by the water.

Where: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, Ghantoot

When: Daily, 10am to 10pm – prior booking required

Cost: Staring from Dhs2,500 per night

Contact: anantara.com

Go all out for a full wellness day or weekend at Meliá Desert Palm, a modern sanctuary just 20 minutes from Dubai. Enjoy massages, body scrubs, guided meditation, yoga, sound healing, and Pilates, or get active with horseback riding across the scenic polo fields surrounded by greenery. The resort’s spacious design creates a serene, rejuvenating setting. Top it off with fine dining overlooking the grounds – perfect for a complete wellness reset.

Where: Meliá Desert Palm, Al Awir Road, Warisan, Dubai

Cost: Rooms from Dhs782 per night – rates may vary Contact: @meliadesertpalm

The Wave Lounge

A ladies-only salon focused on natural beauty and personalised care

WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER

The setting

Ladies-only and quietly tucked into two of Abu Dhabi’s most relaxed neighbourhoods, The Wave Lounge is where to book when you need a proper pause. With branches in Al Bateen and Hidd Al Saadiyat, the salon offers a full menu of treatments for hair, face, body and nails. It’s designed to be a one-stop beauty destination, whether you’re popping in for a quick refresh or settling in for a longer session. And on days when stepping out feels like too much effort, their home service option brings the experience to your door.

The treatment

This was a head-to-toe reset, the kind that leaves you wondering why you don’t do this more often. The facial used organic, cruelty-free products and followed a classic routine of deep cleansing, gentle exfoliation, toning and hydration. The therapist worked carefully and explained what she was using and why, and by the end my skin felt clean, calm and noticeably brighter.

Next came a wash and blow dry. The shampoo and conditioner smelled

incredible and the stylist handled my hair with real care, taking her time rather than rushing through the process. The finish was soft, glossy curls with plenty of bounce and movement.

The manicure and pedicure were just as thorough. A lavender foot scrub smoothed and softened tired feet, but the standout moment was the foot massage. Using a mix of reflexology and traditional techniques, it worked through pressure points and tension, leaving that light, floating feeling you only get from a really good treatment.

The facility

Al Bateen branch spans three floors of calm, dressed in soft blush tones that give the space a gentle, feminine feel. Each level focuses on a different speciality, which keeps the atmosphere organised and unhurried. There’s a dedicated hair and wash section, a spacious nail and nail art area, private rooms for facials and body treatments, and a Moroccan bath for those looking to turn their visit into a full ritual. There’s also a small lounge area where you can sit, sip something warm and ease into the experience before your treatment begins.

The service

Good service is what turns a salon visit into something memorable, and this is where The Wave Lounge really shines. The welcome is warm and genuine, and there’s an easy sense that you’re in capable hands. Each therapist and technician works with confidence and attention to detail, without making the experience feel clinical or rushed. The facial therapist was knowledgeable and reassuring, the stylist was gentle and precise, and the nail technicians worked carefully and neatly. It’s professional, but still personal.

The experience

For two hours, the outside world faded into the background. Phones stayed silent, the pace slowed, and the focus was simply on switching off and being looked after. It leaves you feeling lighter and a little more like yourself again.

What’s On verdict

A calm, capable space that celebrates beauty in its most natural form. Simple, thoughtful treatments that help you look and feel like yourself, only better.

The details

Location: Al Bateen and Hidd Al Saadiyat

Time: Daily, 8am to 10pm

Contact: Al Bateen: (056) 686 8708; Hidd Al Saadiyat: (050) 794 0890 @thewavelounge.ae

Ground HIGHER

As experience-led travel rises, the region’s mountain landscapes are offering a new perspective on familiar destinations

WORDS: YI-HWA HANNA

Saudi Arabia

Stretching along Saudi Arabia’s western spine, the Sarawat and Hijaz Mountains form the backbone of many of the country’s most compelling escapes, offering cooler climates, dramatic views and a slower rhythm of life. AlUla was among the first destinations in Saudi Arabia’s modern tourism push, its sculptural desert scenery – from sandstone canyons to the instantly recognisable Elephant Rock – now an emblem of the Kingdom’s evolving travel identity.

Closer to Riyadh, the Edge of the World has become a defining weekend escape, drawing regional and international visitors to its jaw-dropping sheer cliffs and vast horizon. Further south, Aseer and Taif are known for their misty peaks, terraced farms and cooler temperatures. Both are currently welcoming new hotels, improved aviation links and expanded infrastructure, making them increasingly accessible for both leisure and wellness-led travel.

In the northwest, Tabuk province offers a rugged, sometimes snow-dusted landscape layered with archaeological and historical significance.

Jordan

Petra and Wadi Rum have long anchored Jordan’s travel appeal, but attention is increasingly shifting to the country’s wider mountain landscapes. As the latter’s peaks, such as Jebel Umm ad Dami, attract trekkers rediscovering the area alongside the classic desert tour, rising interest in outdoor travel is also pulling visitors north and inland, toward cooler altitudes, historic viewpoints and expansive trekking terrain that reveal a different side of the country.

Mount Nebo, near Madaba, remains one of Jordan’s most significant sites, valued for both its religious importance and panoramic views across the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and, on clear days, Jerusalem. In the north, Ajloun offers a markedly different landscape: pine- and oak-covered mountains, cooler climes and walking trails centred around Ajloun Castle and nearby nature reserves. Further south, the Dana Biosphere Reserve spans dramatic altitude shifts, forming a core section of the 650km Jordan Trail that supports low-impact hiking and community-based tourism. With new infrastructure investment to support rising visitor numbers, Jordan’s mountain regions are becoming central to how the country is experienced.

Egypt

Beyond the Nile Valley, Egypt’s mountain regions are gaining attention as interest in adventure and nature-led travel grows. The Sinai Peninsula remains the most established draw, anchored by Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa) and Mount Catherine, the country’s highest peak at 2,642m. Sunrise hikes, Bedouin-guided treks, and proximity to Saint Catherine’s Monastery give the area both physical and cultural gravity.

Along the Red Sea coast, the Eastern Desert mountains are emerging as a safari and trekking frontier, with dramatic wadis, granite peaks, and routes suited to hiking, 4WD exploration, photography and stargazing. Further south, Mount Elba’s rare mist-fed ecosystem offers a striking contrast to Egypt’s arid landscapes.

With peak travel between October and April, improved access, local guiding networks, and rising demand for outdoor and cultural experiences, Egypt’s mountain tourism is expanding alongside its heritage appeal, positioning the country as a serious regional destination.

Morocco

Shaped by North Africa’s dramatic terrain, Morocco’s mountain landscapes stretch from snow-dusted summits to arid valleys edging the Sahara. The Atlas range forms the backbone, with the High Atlas drawing trekkers to Mount Toubkal (4,167m), the continent’s highest peak, alongside accessible routes through the Ourika Valley and the Dades Gorges near Marrakesh. Further south, the Anti-Atlas offers a quieter, more sculptural environment around Tafraoute, where granite outcrops and the Painted Rocks art installation add colour to a largely untouched landscape. In the north, the Rif Mountains provide cooler, greener trails near Chefchaouen. Across these regions, mountain travel is closely woven into Berber culture, with village guesthouses, eco-lodges and community-led trekking making the outdoors a lived experience rather than a backdrop.

Türkiye

Mountain landscapes shape much of Türkiye’s geography, from the Taurus range in the south to the Pontic Mountains along the Black Sea and the peaks of eastern Anatolia. In recent years, these regions have drawn growing interest from travellers seeking cooler summer temperatures, hiking routes, and serene rural retreats amidst lush nature.

For GCC visitors, Trabzon, in the Pontic Alps, has become a popular seasonal escape. The Black Sea city offers lush valleys, alpine plateaus, and easy access to highland villages supported by direct summer flights from the GCC, including seasonal flydubai routes. Elsewhere, the Kaçkar Mountain range near Rize attract serious trekkers, while central Anatolia’s Mount Erciyes offers an alpine escape within easy reach of Kayseri’s airport and hotels.

From alpine “yayla” pastures to volcanic peaks and forested ridgelines, Türkiye’s mountain regions offer a varied, increasingly sought-after alternative to its coastal resorts.

United Arab Emirates

Ras Al Khaimah has emerged as the country’s fastest-developing highland destination that’s becoming known as the UAE’s “nature emirate”. Jebel Jais – the nation’s highest peak at 1,934m – sits at the heart of this strategy, supported by scenic mountain roads, hiking trails and adventure attractions, alongside a hospitality pipeline expected to nearly double hotel capacity by the decade’s end. Beyond RAK, also in the eastern region of the UAE, the Hatta Mountains and Khor Fakkan offer accessible hiking, wadis, glamping and cooler retreats. Closer to the capital, Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve offers otherworldly beauty, while Jebel Hafeet continues to draw people to Al Ain.

Oman

Long valued by locals, Oman’s mountain regions are gaining wider attention as an experience-driven alternative to the country’s urban and coastal breaks. With cooler temperatures than much of the rest of the region even during the summer, expanding access, and a growing focus on sustainable tourism through projects such as Jebel Al Abyadh, these areas are emerging as a core pillar of the country’s outdoor offering.

The northern Hajar range is home to Jebel Shams (3,009m), the country’s highest peak. Here, hiking routes such as the Balcony Walk trace the rim of Wadi Nakhr, often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Arabia”. Nearby, Jebel Akhdar is known for its terraced farms and rose gardens, alongside a growing collection of high-end resorts. Further afield, the fjord-like cliffs of Musandam and the monsoon-fed Dhofar Mountains add seasonal diversity.

SMART Travel Tech

Whether you’re travelling for work or escaping for the weekend, these clever gadgets help make every trip smoother

Samsung Galaxy Watch8

From Dhs1,199

Samsung’s thinnest Galaxy smartwatch yet, the Watch8 blends sleek design with genuinely useful travel features. A brighter display, faster chip and longer battery life make it a strong everyday companion, while Galaxy AI handles reminders, messages and calendar updates through simple voice commands – ideal when you’re on the move. Health tracking is also a highlight. Advanced sensors monitor everything from heart rate to sleep quality, while Samsung’s AI-powered Energy Score offers a daily snapshot of your physical readiness. Runners can also access a built-in AI coach that provides training insights and real-time feedback. With a bright 3,000-nit screen that’s easy to read in sunlight and plenty of customisable watch faces, it’s a practical upgrade for travellers who want smart features without constantly reaching for their phone.

Apple AirPods 4

From Dhs549

Apple AirTag Four-Pack

From Dhs439

Apple’s AirTag is one of the simplest travel gadgets – and one of the most useful.

Pair it with the Find My app and you can track luggage, backpacks or even your car using your phone. On newer iPhones, Precision Finding guides you directly to a misplaced item with on-screen directions.

The battery lasts about a year and is easy to replace, while the compact, water-resistant design makes it ideal for slipping into bags or tech pouches. For travellers juggling multiple items, it’s a small gadget that offers a lot of peace of mind.

Apple’s latest AirPods bring a few upgrades that frequent travellers will appreciate. The standout feature is builtin live translation, allowing real-time conversations across multiple languages directly through your earbuds. Active Noise Cancellation arrives in the standard AirPods range for the first time, helping block out plane engines or busy cafés, while Apple’s H2 chip delivers clearer audio and smoother performance. They now charge via USB-C too, making life easier for travellers who want fewer cables in their bag.

Therabody SmartGoggles 2nd Gen

From Dhs805

Long flights, screen fatigue and poor sleep are common travel complaints – and Therabody’s SmartGoggles aim to fix all three.

Part sleep mask, part recovery device, they use a mix of heat, vibration and gentle compression to relax tired eyes and reduce tension. The second-generation model improves comfort with better padding, a lighter design and a full blackout fit. It’s also quieter and offers longer battery life.

For frequent travellers or anyone glued to screens all day, it’s a surprisingly effective way to unwind.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

From Dhs2,730

At just 5.8mm thin, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge is one of the sleekest flagship phones around – and a particularly useful tool for frequent travellers. The real star here is Gemini AI, which acts like a built-in digital assistant.

You can ask it to calculate travel times, organise meeting schedules or plan routes across the city, all with simple voice commands. It can even coordinate tasks across multiple apps – for example finding a venue, saving the details and sending the location to a contact.

Features like Live Translate help with international calls, while Circle to Search instantly pulls up information on places and landmarks. Battery life isn’t the strongest in Samsung’s lineup, but for travellers with a charger or powerbank nearby, its slim design and AI tools make it a highly capable companion.

Ray Ban Meta (Gen 2)

From Dhs1,392

Smart glasses have come a long way, and the secondgeneration Ray-Ban Meta models make the concept far more practical. Built into classic Ray-Ban frames, they combine a camera, speakers and AI assistant in one surprisingly lightweight device.

For travellers, the appeal is hands-free convenience. You can capture photos and videos, listen to music, make calls or ask questions without reaching for your phone. The updated model also improves video quality to 3K, boosts audio recording and significantly extends battery life.

brighter LED light that signals

There are also thoughtful upgrades around privacy, including a brighter LED light that signals when recording is happening. With translation features and AI assistance built in, they’re a fun and surprisingly useful gadget for exploring new places.

Uperfect 17.3” 4K Portable Monitor

From Dhs1,230

For anyone who struggles to work on a single laptop screen, this portable monitor is a game changer. The slim 17.3-inch display easily slips into a bag and creates an instant dual-screen workspace wherever you are.

The 4K panel delivers vibrant colours and high brightness, while a built-in kickstand and speakers keep the setup simple. With USB-C and HDMI connectivity, it works with most laptops and tablets –making it ideal for digital nomads, remote workers or anyone managing work while travelling.

Longbeach Campground

Beachfront dome glamping in Ras Al Khaimah: a weekend the whole family will love

WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

There’s plenty to keep the kids occupied in the city, but whenever you need a short break, Ras Al Khaimah always ticks the right boxes. One of the most popular familyfriendly locations on the emirate’s staycation scene is Longbeach Campground, a laidback coastal retreat that swaps traditional hotel rooms for dome-style glamping.

From the moment you arrive, the mood is relaxed. Friendly staff guide guests through leafy pathways towards their tent or dome while pointing out the facilities – infinity pool (check), beach (will definitely be going there first after we drop our bags), play areas (kids are already screaming to be taken there first), kids pool (kids have changed their mind and want this first), restaurant and bar area (key info clocked) and huge water slides at the edge of the property (looks kid- and kids-at-heart-friendly). Within minutes, weekend mode is fully engaged.

But the real draw at Longbeach Campground is the accommodation. Alongside traditional camping tents sit rows of gleaming white dome tents – the campground’s signature glamping setup. Step inside and it quickly becomes clear that this isn’t roughing it. The domes are spacious and thoughtfully designed, fully air-conditioned and fitted with

comfortable beds and soft lighting, with enough room for families to properly settle in. Is it camping? Not quite. But for those who want the outdoorsy experience without sacrificing comfort – present company included – it strikes exactly the right balance.

The outdoor seating areas quickly become the best spot for a morning coffee or an evening wind-down as the sky turns golden over the Arabian Gulf.

Location plays a big part in the appeal. The campground sits directly on a stretch of private beach, meaning the rhythm of the day naturally revolves around the water. Early risers wander down for sunrise walks along the sand while the sea is still calm and quiet. By late morning, the beachfront becomes the social heart of the resort, with loungers lining the shore and families drifting between the sea, the pools and the steady schedule of activities.

And there’s plenty to keep everyone busy. Longbeach Campground leans into the idea of an all-in-one getaway where you can be as active – or as horizontal – as you like. Throughout the day, a rotating programme of activities runs across the grounds: beach volleyball, kite flying and pottery classes for younger guests, as well as outdoor movie screenings once the sun goes down. For

children especially, the layout means they can roam between play areas and activity zones while parents relax nearby.

As evening settles in, string lights flicker across the campground as families gather around dinner tables and the fire pit as the waves gently roll in to provide the evening’s soundtrack.

Food and drink match the relaxed environment, with casual dining options that keep things easy and family-friendly. Buffets and live cooking stations make meals simple after a day outdoors, and there’s a steady flow of snacks and refreshments to keep everyone fuelled between activities.

What makes Longbeach Campground particularly appealing is its accessibility. For Dubai residents looking to escape the city without the commitment of a long flight, or Abu Dhabi families wanting something different from a traditional hotel stay, it offers an authentic outdoor stay as well as a comforting option for those looking for that outdoor charm.

When the whole family needs a dose of sea air and a chance to properly switch off, Longbeach Campground delivers a relaxed coastal escape with just the right amount of adventure for everyone.

THE DETAILS

Location: Al Nadiya, Ras Al-Khaimah Check-in and check-out: Check in is at 3pm and check out at 12pm.

Contact: Tel: (0)7 203 4099. @longbeachcampground

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YOURULTIMATEUAE BRUNCH BUCKETLIST

Editor-in-Chief

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

Managing Partner & Group Editor

lan Fairservice

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Thomas Woodgate thomas.woodgate@motivate.ae

EDITORIAL

Contributing Editor

Alice Holtham-Pargin

Deputy Editor, Dubai

Madie Murphy | madie.murphy@motivate.ae

WELCOME

Across the UAE, brunch is a true weekend institution. Few places do it quite like this country, where exceptional hospitality, global cuisines and a love of social dining come together to create something special. It’s one of the reasons residents and visitors alike feel fortunate to spend time here.

Features Editor

Aarti Saundalkar

Reporter

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Commercial Director, Dubai & Northern Emirates

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WHATSON.AE | WHATSONSAUDIARABIA.COM WHATSONSAUDIARABIA.COM/AR

From Dubai to Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates, the love of brunches continues to grow at pace, with new concepts appearing and favourites raising the bar each year.

In this season’s guide, you’ll find 200 brunches from across the UAE – from longstanding favourites to exciting new arrivals, offering plenty of inspiration for the weekends ahead. Enjoy.

Head Office: Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel +971 4 427 3000

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Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae

Saudi Arabia: Regus Offices No. 455 - 456, 4th Floor, Hamad Tower, King Fahad Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, KSA, Tel: +966 11 834 3595 / +966 11 834 3596, Email: motivate@motivate.ae

London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, Email: motivateuk@motivate.ae

ABU DHABI EDITION

At the sultry Library Bar, the Friday and Saturday evening brunch invites you to unwind in a sophisticated setting. The Writer’s Block evening brunch features an array of cleverly named cocktails – like The Great Gatsby and The Great Expectations, as well as four ‘chapters’ of food, starting with charcuterie and ending with passionfruit tartlet and a tonka crème brulee.

Abu Dhabi EDITION, Fri and Sat, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs215 soft, Dhs365 house, Dhs565 premium. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @abudhabiedition

AMERIGOS

Don your sombrero and shake your maracas at Amerigos’ vibrant El Brunch. There’s a lively ambience from the get-go, while the flavourful feast takes you to the heart of Mexico with plates of tacos and enchiladas.

Park Inn by Radisson, Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Sat, 6.30pm to 11pm (two-hour packages), Dhs175 soft, Dhs325 house. Tel: (0)55 594 2695. @amerigosyasisland

ASIA ASIA

Located along the pretty promenade of Yas Bay, Asia Asia’s Spice Route Brunch features a fourcourse menu of pan-Asian favourites served alongside unlimited drinks from 2pm to 5pm.

Yas Bay Waterfront, Sat, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs495 sparkling. @asiaasiauae

BAR DU PORT

A lively brunch party set along the harbour at Yas Island, Brunch du Port brings the brand’s signature French flair to the capital every Saturday. With electric beats from the resident DJ, tasty bites and lively vibes, this is a brunch for the party people.

Yas Marina, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs290 soft, Dhs390 house, Dhs480 premium, Dhs650 Champagne. @barduportabudhabi

BROADWAY

Delicious food and live entertainment create a brilliant brunch at Broadway. Dishes include truffle egg cocotte and Wagyu bavett with sides like crispy fries and broccolini – ensuring something for everyone. Make a day of it and enjoy beach access before or after brunch.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs365 house, Dhs495 Champagne. Tel: (0)2 690 7999.

@broadway.uae

CAFÉ DEL MAR

Bringing the flavour of the Balearics to the shores of Yas Island, Café Del Mar is a luxe spot for a brunch that combines crowd-pleasing plates, refreshing sips, live entertainment and pool access, too. Start with trips to the buffet, move to dips in the pool and finish up grooving to percussionists and saxophone players. Brunches take place every Friday to Sunday. Yas Bay, Yas Island, Fri to Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs345 Friday, Dhs399 Saturday and Sunday. @cafedelmarabudhabi

CENTRAL

Easily one of the best family brunches in Abu Dhabi, Central’s Saturday brunch means burgers, fries, shakes and more, all served within the confines of an arcade with gaming machines, simulators and bowling open to all. Best of all, all brunch packages come with Dhs100 worth of game credit. Yas Bay Waterfront, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs250 soft and teens 12 to 21, Dhs350 house, Dhs200 children five to 12. Tel: (0)4 423 8311. @central_uae

COOPER’S BAR & RESTAURANT

Unlimited roasted prime rib, braised brisket, fish ‘n’ chips, shepherd’s pie and much more – all accompanied by bottomless beverages, live entertainment from the resident DJ and live band make this a proper brunch feast. Teachers, cabin crew and nurses enjoy 35% off. Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, Sat, Dhs239 soft, Dhs329 house, Dhs379 premium. Tel: (0)2 657 3325. @coopersabudhabi

CRUST

Indulge in a gourmet buffet brunch at Four Seasons Abu Dhabi. Executive chef Christian Buenrostro and executive pastry chef Rasika Weerasinghe team up to present a curated array of dishes from across the globe in a family-friendly setting. Four Seasons Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs345 soft, Dhs445 house. Tel: (0)2 333 2444. @fsabudhabi

DINO’S BISTRO ITALIANO

A bubbly Italian weekend brunch for Dhs280 per person. That’s the signature deal at Dino’s where guests enjoy Italian delights and assorted desserts alongside free-flowing cocktails, wine and bubbly. With its warm, casual and friendly atmosphere, Dino’s continues to bring the finest flavours of Italy to the capital.

Pearl Rotana, Sat and Sun, noon to 4pm, Dhs220 soft, Dhs280 bubbly, half price for children. Tel: (0)2 307 5555. @dinosbistroitaliano

FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHR

The Grand Brunch brings together dishes from around the world, from all-day dining at CuiScene, to the elevated Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Marco’s Italian. Feast on the best of Asia, India, the Mediterranean, Japan, Italy and more, all paired with live entertainment from an in-house singer. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs345 soft, Dhs495 house, half price for children six to 12. Tel: (0)2 654 3333. @fairmontbabalbahr

GRAND HYATT ABU DHABI

Wander live cooking stations designed to transport you around the world, sip on all your favourite drinks – including refreshing Aperol Spritz – and enjoy the sounds of a live DJ at Sahha’s family-friendly brunch. Little ones will have a ball in the dedicated kids corner, with interactive activities and entertainment aplenty.

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs365 house.

Tel: (0)50 693 2957. @grandhyattabudhabi

HAWKSBILL

Enjoy a family-friendly Saturday brunch overlooking the greens of Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. Guests can look forward to laidback bites and refreshing drinks, with two-hour packages available between 12pm and 5pm. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Saadiyat Island, Sat, 12pm to 5pm (two-hour packages), Dhs199 soft, Dhs299 house, Dhs99 children six to 12. Tel: (0)56 660 8780. @hawksbill.sbgc

JUMEIRAH SAADIYAT ISLAND

Beautiful all-day dining venue White hosts Saturday brunch with live cooking stations that bring together cuisines from across the globe. While savouring the delicious dishes, enjoy lively music and percussion to keep the energy high.

Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs415 soft, Dhs535 house, Dhs675 premium, Dhs200 children five to 11. Tel: (0)2 811 4342. @jumeirahsaadiyatisland

McCAFFERTY’S

Bringing proper Irish craic to Hilton Abu Dhabi – Yas Island every Saturday is McCafferty’s. Their wallet-friendly brunch is a four-hour package of non-stop food and fun, featuring sharing starters followed by a choice of main, all served up to rocking live entertainment. After brunch, the party continues with a threehour drunch deal for Dhs199.

Hilton Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Yas Bay, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs199. Tel: (0)58 598 3623. @mccaffertysyas

MIKA

Set sail on a journey to the heart of the Mediterranean with the Riviera Brunch at Yas Marina hotspot MIKA by Chef Mario Loi. Catch up over small plates and sharing platters, curated to showcase Mediterranean flavours, alongside handcrafted seasonal cocktails and boutique wines. A live DJ sets the tone for an afternoon of refined fun.

Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Sat, 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs299 soft, Dhs449 house, Dhs595 Champagne. Tel: (0)56 433 1422. @mika.abudhabi

NAHAAM

Nahaam’s Brunch 2.0 features live entertainment and free-flowing beverages alongside a buffet brimming with variety. From unique salads to delicious seafood, there is something for everyone including enticing starters and irresistible desserts. Family-style mains are served directly to the table, creating a communal dining experience.

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs525 house, Dhs695 premium. Tel: (0)2 811 5666.

@nahaam2.0

NALU RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Step into a unique Saturday experience at Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, with a brunch of Latin American flavours. Start with fresh seafood and crispy tortillas, then graze on slow-cooked meats while listening to rhythmic live music and sipping delicious free-flowing drinks.

Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house. Tel: (0)2 419 8509. @nalu_restaurant

PARADISO

Mediterranean vibes with Italian flair await at trendy Paradiso, a gorgeous waterfront spot at Yas Bay. They host a duo of Italianthemed brunches on Saturdays and Sundays, with indoor and outdoor seating that oozes Dolce Vita appeal.

Yas Bay Waterfront, Sat and Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs450 sparkling. Tel: (0)50 437 2869. @paradisoabudhabi

PARK HYATT ABU DHABI

Brunch at the Park is an all-star Saturday spread that invites you to dine around the world on delectable stacks of ocean-fresh oysters, platters of sushi, flame-grilled meats and Middle Eastern specialities. Perfect for the whole family, Camp Hyatt keeps little ones entertained all afternoon long.

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs415 soft, Dhs525 house, Dhs720 Champagne. @parkhyattad

RIXOS PREMIUM SAADIYAT ISLAND

Saturdays are made for indulgence at Turquoise Restaurant. Over a three-hour package, discover an abundant buffet featuring international favourites and Turkish-inspired specialities, crafted for a leisurely Saturday afternoon.

Saadiyat Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs525. Tel: (0)2 492 2222. @rixospremiumsaadiyat

ROSEWOOD ABU DHABI

Rosewood Abu Dhabi’s Aqua Brunch brings entertainment and cuisine from around the world to Al Maryah Island. Expect live music from a saxophonist as families tuck into a brunch with something for everyone, with live stations from across the globe, where artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, rustic breads and seasonal accompaniments evoke the charm of a Mediterranean market.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs329 food only, Dhs399 house, Dhs599 Champagne. Tel: (0)2 813 5550. @rosewoodabudhabi

SAND & KOAL

Unrolling against picturesque vistas of the Arabian Gulf, Sand & Koal hosts a laidback seaside brunch every Saturday. Pick five dishes from the tapas menu for Dhs200, with options like heirloom tomato with burrata, crispy squid and seared octopus, then pair it with a drinks package of either soft, house or premium drinks.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs400 house, Dhs650 Champagne. Tel: (0)2 690 7999. @sandandkoal.uae

SAADIYAT BEACH CLUB

Celebrate weekends with a vibrant brunch experience at Safina, where seasonal flavours and sustainable ingredients take centre stage. There’s a gourmet buffet featuring options like sourdough simit and salmon poke bowls to live carving stations, Mediterranean antipasti and towers of seafood.

Saadiyat Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs345 soft, Dhs445 house, Dhs545 sparkling. Tel: (0)2 656 3500. @saadiyatbeachclub

SIDDHARTA LOUNGE

Sensory Brunch at Siddharta Lounge is an immersive evening experience. The dazzling rooftop venue sets the tone for an evening of pan-Asian dishes and unlimited drinks, all

served up to a DJ spinning high-energy beats. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sat, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs259 soft, Dhs359 house, Dhs459 sparkling. Tel: (0)50 601 1194.

@siddhartalounge_abudhabi

SOFRA BLD

One of the most popular Saturday brunches in Abu Dhabi, Sofra bld situated at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, hosts a ‘Gardens of Babylon’ brunch. Expect extravagance and an over-the-top sensory feast with unlimited drinks, plus live entertainment.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs378 soft, Dhs478 house, Dhs578 sparkling. Tel: (0)2 509 8555. @shangrilaabudhabi

ST REGIS ABU DHABI

An ode to New York’s gilded age, the grand Astor brunch is a sophisticated Saturday soirée. Set to the soothing sounds of live jazz, indulge in a refined culinary journey featuring artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood, tandoori delicacies and exquisite desserts. Sip on constellation-inspired cocktails from the Zodiac Trolley, or rejuvenate with wellness elixirs from Vitamin House.

St Regis Abu Dhabi, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs345 soft, Dhs475 prosecco, Dhs680 Champagne. Tel: (0)2 694 4553. @stregisabudhabi

TEATRO

The GuiltyFish sushi brunch at Teatro is a highenergy affair from one of Abu Dhabi’s best-loved spots. Of course, you’ll fill up on a delicious menu of sushi, while catching up to the sounds of DJ Brent Anthony on the decks. Once brunch finishes, the after party continues until 7pm with drinks packages from Dhs159.

Park Rotana, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs495 premium. Tel: (0)2 657 3317. @teatroabudhabi

TIKI PACIFICO

A Polynesian paradise in Al Bandar Marina, a string of wallet-friendly deals awaits at this tropical spot. On Saturday, snag a table on the terrace for waterfront views or book a seat indoors and enjoy a set menu alongside freeflowing drinks, dancers and a live DJ.

Al Raha Beach, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs199 soft, Dhs299 house, Dhs399 premium, Dhs99 children five to 12. Tel: (0)50 696 9298. @tiki.pacifico

W ABU DHABI – YAS ISLAND

The B.I.G Brunch is an appropriate name for this gourmet extravaganza that takes place every Saturday at Garage. Rev-up your weekend with food and drinks from five vibrant dining hubs, including a refreshing mezze spread, exciting Asian flavours and premium meat cuts from the Vault. It’s paired with lively tunes and drinks from a dozen taps.

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs390 soft, Dhs475 house, Dhs590 sparkling. Tel: (0)2 656 0000 @wabudhabi

THE WB™ ABU DHABI

Head to The Director’s Club at The WB™ Abu Dhabi on Saturday, where premium meats take centre stage. The three-hour feast comes with unlimited drinks, a selection of desserts and live entertainment to round out the afternoon.

The WB™ Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs275 soft, Dhs399 house, Dhs599 sparkling. @thewbabudhabi

ZUMA

Zuma’s Baikingu Brunch incorporates all the best that Zuma has to offer, beginning with a selection of starters, including Zuma’s signature shrimp tempura, crispy fried squid, as well as an assortment of sashimi, nigiri and maki. Plus, options from the live robata cooking station, followed by signature main courses, including miso marinated black cod and grilled Australian wagyu ribeye, finishing things off with an assortment of desserts from the eclectic food display.

Al Maryah Island, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs495 soft, Dhs595 Prosecco, Dhs695 Champagne, Dhs195 children four to 12. Tel: (0)2 401 5900. @zumaabudhabi

DAI PAI DONG

The Yum Cha Brunch at Rosewood Abu Dhabi combines modern Cantonese cuisine with free-flowing drinks and a relaxed, yet refined, ambience. Indulge in a culinary journey that starts with salads and soups, followed by an array of dim sum, including steamed shrimp and beef short rib. For mains, there are signature dishes like Canton roasted duck and BBQ specialities at a live station. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs298 soft, Dhs398 house, Dhs528 premium. Tel: (0)2 813 5550. @rosewoodabudhabi

ILIOS

Indulge in a sophisticated Sunday at the Aegean Brunch, inspired by the rich flavours and charm of the Greek Islands. The menu promises fresh grilled seafood, slow-cooked meats and a selection of mezze, served up at a stunning beachfront setting.

Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs325 soft, Dhs450 house. Tel: (0)2 419 8508. @ilios.abudhabi

KAI BEACH

Sun-soaked vibes and delicious bites are the theme of Kai Beach’s family brunch every Sunday. A family-style sharing brunch concept, Kai’s Family Table brunch includes a lemonade bar, plus sharing plates of mussels, prawns, beef tenderloin and lemon-infused desserts. Beach access is included with all packages.

Saadiyat Island, Sun, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs300 house, 50% off children five to 11. Tel: (0)50 2835 795. @kaibeachsaadiyat

LA PETITE MAISON

At this acclaimed French Riviera-inspired restaurant at The Galleria, Sundays are for refined dishes and unlimited drinks. Start with a viennoiserie basket, followed by a choice of eggs, and a selection of tartines all inspired by the South of France’s Mediterranean beauty.

The Galleria Al Maryah, Sun, 12pm to 4.30pm, Dhs390 soft, Dhs465 house, Dhs640 Champagne, Dhs195 children. Tel: (0)2 692 9600. @lpmabudhabi

SONTAYA

The Himalayan brunch at Sontaya is a flavour flight that takes you on a culinary journey inspired by the flow of two rivers – the Ganges and the Mekong, where Southeast Asia and India connect. Expect succulent kebabs, aromatic curries, wok-fired delicacies and vibrant street food.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs495 sparkling, Dhs175 children five to 12.

Tel: (0)2 498 8443. @sontayaabudhabi

ESCAPE THE EVERYDAY WITH A LUXE PALM JUMEIRAH STAYCATION AT ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT

From lagoon-view rooms and overwater villas to relaxed beach day passes, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is inviting UAE and GCC residents to rediscover a tropical escape without leaving Dubai

Set along a private stretch of beach on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Anantara

The Palm Dubai Resort offers a slice of tropical tranquillity just minutes from the city’s skyline. Inspired by the brand’s Thai heritage, the resort blends serene lagoon landscapes, lush gardens and beachfront living to create one of Dubai’s most distinctive resort experiences.

Now, residents across the UAE and GCC have two new reasons to check in. The resort has launched a pair of experiences designed for easy escapes close to home: a staycation package ideal for an overnight retreat and a flexible pool and beach day pass for those looking to spend a leisurely day by the water.

A resort-style staycation

For residents craving a change of pace without leaving the country, the UAE & GCC Staycation Special offers an indulgent resort break paired with generous perks.

Guests can choose between elegant lagoon-view rooms or spacious private villas, each designed with subtle Thai-inspired touches and generous outdoor areas made for unwinding. The property itself features 293 rooms and villas set around temperature-controlled lagoons, creating a peaceful island-style atmosphere rarely found elsewhere in the city.

DETAILS

UAE & GCC Staycation Special includes:

 Up to 10% savings on accommodation.

 Daily resort credit of up to AED 500.

 Daily breakfast for two adults and up to two children under 12.

Among its standout features are Dubai’s only overwater villas – a unique accommodation option that adds an extra sense of exclusivity to a stay on the Palm. Mornings begin with a generous breakfast, while daily resort credit allows guests to explore the resort’s award-winning dining venues or indulge in treatments at the spa. Additional benefits include savings on dining, leisure activities and wellness experiences, alongside the convenience of early check-in and late check-out, allowing guests to make the most of their time at the resort.

 Flexible cancellation and amendment policy. OFFER

 10% savings at the resort’s restaurants (excluding in-room dining).

 20% savings on selected leisure activities.

 30% savings at the spa.

 Early check-in at 11am and late check-out at 5pm.

With its private beach, serene lagoons and diverse dining experiences, the staycation package offers a chance to fully unwind without ever leaving Dubai.

A day by the water

For those who prefer a shorter escape, the resort’s Pool & Beach Day Pass Special provides access to the property’s beach and pool facilities, along with dining or spa credit to enjoy throughout the day.

Guests can spend the afternoon lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun on the private beachfront or enjoying a relaxed meal or drinks at one of the resort’s restaurants and bars. It’s an easy way to experience the laidback atmosphere of the resort – whether for a midweek break or a leisurely weekend outing.

POOL & BEACH DAY PASS SPECIAL

Weekdays (Monday-Thursday):

 AED 200 per adult, including AED 250 dining or spa credit.

 AED 100 per child (3-11 years), including AED 100 dining credit.

Weekends (Friday-Sunday and public holidays):

 AED 250 per adult, including AED 200 dining or spa credit.

 AED 100 per child (3-11 years), including AED 100 dining credit.

AMMOS

A coastal escape without the flight to Greece, the Thalassa brunch is a lively affair taking over Ammos every Friday night. Enjoy sharing starters served to the table, an à la carte choice of main, concluding with sharing desserts. The highlight of the brunch is the live roaming band – Gavin and the Supernovas – who will entertain all night long. Rixos Premium Dubai JBR, Fri, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs355 house, Dhs395 sparkling. Tel: (0)52 777 9473. @ammosgreekdubai

ASIA ASIA BUSINESS BAY

Enjoy a flavour flight through four courses of pan-Asian dishes inspired by the Spice Route paired with pretty skyline views at the Business Bay outpost of this beloved homegrown restaurant. Renaissance Business Bay, Fri and Sat, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs375 soft, Dhs525 wine, Dhs550 house, Dhs650 sparkling. @asiaasiauae

AURA SKYPOOL

Aura Skypool’s, quite literally, elevated Friday evening brunch takes place 50 floors up The Palm Tower. Your night includes a Pan-Asian sharing menu, three hours of free-flowing drinks, live entertainment, scintillating beats and some of the best brunch views in the city. Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Fri, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs550 house, Dhs800 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 566 2121. @auraskypool.dubai

BOHEMIA

You might know and love Bohemia for its epic Saturday parties at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, but it’s also now home to an electric Friday party, Lost at Bohemia. A free-spirited celebration, guests can enjoy immersive performances, live DJ sets, a set menu and unlimited drinks. There’s both afternoon and sunset packages, with VIP booths available and special packages for birthdays.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah, West Beach, Fri, 12.30pm to 4.30pm or 5pm to 8.30pm, Dhs150 ladies drinks only, Dhs200 ladies package, Dhs250 ladies premium package, Dhs395 gents, Dhs495 gents premium package. Tel: (0)58 102 6643. @lostatbohemia

THE BLACK SHEEP

Wind into the weekend with a main dish and three hours of unlimited drinks at this JLT favourite. On the menu, pick from sausage and mash, fish and chips, or pie of the day and sip on a selection of house drinks and jam to live music from 7pm to 10pm. Pullman Hotel, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Fri, 7pm to 10pm, Dhs265. Tel: (0)58 599 5664. @theblacksheepdubai

CASA AMOR

Savour a generous sharing-style menu paired with craft cocktails at Casa Amor, the stunning beachfront restaurant at Mandarin Oriental, Jumeira. Gather for a lively evening with friends while listening to the sounds of a live DJ. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Fri, 7pm to 10pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs550 house, Dhs750 Champagne, Dhs250 children four to 11. Tel: (0)4 777 2223. @casaamordubai

GALLERY 7/40

If a party brunch sounds like the best thing you could do to kick-off your weekend, then you need to head to Gallery 7/40 for the sellout Big Fat Greek Brunch by Secret Parties. Tuck into Greek delicacies washed down with unlimited drinks and enjoy an evening filled with live entertainment and a bit of plate-smashing fun. Gallery 7/40, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, Fri, 7pm to 10.30pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs475 house, Dhs575 premium. @secretpartiesdxb

JONES THE GROCER

Start your weekend by the sea with a Friday night brunch at the Hilton Palm Jumeirah outpost of this Aussie favourite. Tuck into a buffet of international crowd-pleasers, all paired with free-flowing drinks. Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Fri, 7pm to 10.30pm, Dhs249 soft, Dhs329 house, Dhs429 premium. Tel: (0)54 998 6162. @jonesthegrocer

MIMI’S POOL CLUB

Dive into a Caribbean-themed poolside takeover at MiMi’s. Move to the rhythm of Afro, Caribbean and Latin grooves spun by resident DJs, while you feast on tacos, quesadillas and soak up the sun, FIVE-style.

FIVE Jumeirah Village, JVC, Fri, 1pm onwards, Dhs195 house. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @mimispoolclubdubai

SANTÉ RIA

Kick off the weekend in style at Sante Ria’s

Azucar Brunch, a lively celebration of flavours and fun every Friday night. Expect Latin beats and three hours of delicious bites and zesty, free-flowing drinks.

The First Collection, JVC, Fri, 9pm to 12am, Dhs250 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs450 premium. @santeriadubai

STK DUBAI JBR

At this high-energy steakhouse, a weekend of brunches begins on Friday night with RARE, where throwback R&B tunes set the tone alongside a premium three-course menu and unlimited beverages.

Rixos Premium JBR, The Walk, Fri, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs390 soft, Dhs450 wine, Dhs475 house, Dhs525 sparkling. @stkdubaijbr

ULA

Ula’s Candlelit Boho Brunch is a relaxed way to spend a Friday evening. Amidst bohemian decor and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, sample a three-course menu featuring dishes from across the Mediterranean and beyond.

Dukes The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Fri, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs375 soft, Dhs475 house, Dhs550 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 566 3041. @uladxb

101 DINING, LOUNGE & MARINA

Catch of the Day is the Saturday brunch bringing a taste of the Riviera to One&Only The Palm. The elevated experience promises decadent seafood and unlimited sips, and is set to live music, a DJ and beautiful sea views. One&Only The Palm, Sat, 12pm to 3pm, Dhs390 soft, Dhs590 house, Dhs990 premium. Tel: (0)4 440 1010. @101_dxb

FIVE IRON

Swing, sip and socialise with the double brunch at this super-sized golf bar inside The Westin. Both the afternoon session (2pm to 5pm) and the evening round (8pm to 11pm) come with three hours of simulator time in private bays, a selection of bites, freeflowing drinks and access to lots more games like darts, shuffleboard and billiards.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Sat, 2pm to 5pm and 8pm to 11pm, Dhs245 soft, Dhs345 house, Dhs445 draught beer. Tel: (0)4 396 6867. @fiveirongolf.uae

ABOVE ELEVEN

Bringing the party 14 floors up at Palm West Beach is the Yunza-11 Brunch. As you gaze out over views of Dubai Marina, Harbour and the Palm, enjoy a menu of Nikkei flavours with dishes like sushi, ceviche and prawn tempura. Every hour there are surprises to be had and when dessert is served, the lucky partygoer who finds a gold coin will only have to pay AED 11 for their brunch. An after-brunch party

from 4pm to 6pm comes with drinks packages from Dhs199.

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs495 Prosecco, Dhs650 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 666 1420. @aboveelevendubai

AFRICAN QUEEN

Bringing the vibes to J1 Beach is African Queen’s ‘Call of the Jungle’ brunch. Taking place every Saturday, the menu promises a flavourflight through French-Mediterranean dishes, plus free-flowing drinks and live entertainment.

J1 Beach, Jumeirah, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs580 house, Dhs690 premium, Dhs850 Champagne. Tel: (0)52 778 0760. @africanqueen_dubai

AKIRA BACK

A firm favourite on the brunch social calendar, Candypants’ Brunch Refined at Akira Back promises Japanese cuisine with Korean and international influence and spectacular views of Palm Jumeirah, paired with high-energy fun that only the Candypants masters can create.

W Dubai – The Palm, Sat, 1pm to 4.30pm, from Dhs399 soft, Dhs449 house, Dhs549 premium. Tel: (0)4 245 5533. @candypantsdxb

ALICI

This Bluewaters Island brunch is a breezy weekend affair, presenting a specially curated menu of Italian seafood across its double brunches on Saturdays and Sundays. Think crudo, antipasti, main courses, desserts, Italian wines and more.

Bluewaters, Sat and Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 275 2577. @alicidubai

AMAZÓNICO DUBAI

Step out of DIFC and into the jungle at Amazónico. DIFC’s vibrant rainforestinspired hotspot transforms every Saturday into a lively celebration, with a menu of Nikkei flavours, pulsing Latin house beats and immersive percussion performances creating a high-octane experience.

DIFC, Sat, 12pm to 4.30pm, Dhs495 soft, Dhs595 house, Dhs795 bubbly. Tel: (0)4 571 3999. @amazonicodubai

ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT

The beloved Fork and Cork brunch is a superb all-you-can-eat feast, taking over Crescendo every Saturday. Expect cooking stations and sizzling grills amidst serene Palm views, all

served up to some excellent live entertainment. Desserts are always a highlight.

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs575 sparkling, Dhs750 Champagne, Dhs220 children five to 11.

Tel: (0)4 567 8304. @crescendodubai

ASIA ASIA PALM

With a beautiful alfresco terrace, it makes sense to host a sunset brunch at the third Dubai outpost of Asia Asia. The Palm Jumeirah iteration of the Spice Route brunch offers stretching sea and skyline views alongside a four-course menu.

Andaz Dubai The Palm, Sat, 5pm to 8pm, Dhs375 soft, Dhs550 house, Dhs650 sparkling. @asiaasiauae

ATTIKO

The hip rooftop terrace at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi serves up a stylish Saturday soiree, where guests can enjoy a pan-Asian sharingstyle set menu of dishes, free-flowing drinks and entertainment from a live DJ and saxophone player.

W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs390 soft, Dhs490 house, Dhs590 sparkling, Dhs790 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 350 9983. @attikodubai

BARASTI

A sunset pool brunch is the fun-filled Saturday brunch offering at Dubai’s OG beach bar, Barasti. You’ll get three hours of free-flowing drinks and one bite from the brunch menu, while a DJ spins lively tunes. After brunch, the party continues with flamingo loungers, LED floaters and live entertainment.

Le Meridien Mina Seyhai Beach Resort & Waterpark, Sat, 5pm to 8pm, Dhs229 ladies, Dhs269 gents. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @barastibeach

BAR DU PORT

Bringing the fiesta to Dubai Harbour is Bar du Port, which promises top tunes, a tasty spread of Mediterranean flavours and free-flowing drinks every Saturday afternoon. The menu features dishes like burrata, lemon butter shrimps and pan-seared seabass – but really, it’s more about the music and drinks, so expect an impressive selection of cocktails, too.

Bar du Port, Dubai Harbour, off Dubai Marina, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs430 wine, Dhs560 sparkling and cocktails, Dhs780 premium. Tel: (0)4 332 4868. @barduportdubai

BARFLY

The evening brunch experience at Barfly by Buddha Bar features live entertainment like no other. A spectacular fire show, live dance performances and a special illusionist will keep you entertained all evening as you feast. The menu features a fusion of Asian and international cuisine complemented by expertly crafted beverages.

Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 7.30pm to 11.30pm, Dhs365 soft, Dhs445 house, Dhs545 premium. Tel: (0)4 230 0057. @barflydubai

THE BLACKSMITH BAR & EATERY

This evening brunch takes place at Blacksmith’s Dubai Marina location every Saturday. Tuck into succulent, Southern-style meats paired with an array of drinks and sit back and enjoy a fun evening of entertainment.

The First Collection Dubai Marina, Sat, 7pm to 10pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs375 house, Dhs475 sparkling. @theblacksmithdubai

BRASSERIE 2.0

A kaleidoscope of global cuisines, an idyllic garden setting and ‘voyage’-themed entertainment provide a trifecta of reasons to visit Brasserie 2.0’s Saturday brunch. Although there’s both indoor and outdoor seating, the alfresco tables are the seats to book for ordering fresh seafood and meat cooked-to-order exactly as you like it. Book and pay by Thursday each week for a 20% discount.

Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, JBR, Sat, 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs545 sparkling, Dhs795 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 316 5555. @brasserie2.0

BREWDOG

The popular Scottish entertainment bar has landed in Dubai and on Saturdays, brunch means three hours of sharing starters, an á la carte choice of main and sharing desserts. The drinks list features a selection of wine, beer, spirits and cocktails, plus there’s half-price darts and duckpin bowling for brunchers.

Bluewaters, Dubai, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs450 premium.

Tel: (0)52 956 5688. @brewdogbluewaters

BRASS MONKEY

This beloved entertainment bar dishes out a dose of nostalgia with its weekend brunch: think throwback tunes from the ’90s and ’00s, a crowd-pleasing menu of bar bites and old-school desserts like banana splits. Keen to get competitive? There’s 50% off bowling and selected arcade games, too.

Bluewaters, Dubai, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs425 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 582 7277. @brassmonkeysocial

BUBBALICIOUS

Whether you’re a Dubai veteran or a newbie on the brunch scene, The Westin’s Bubbalicious brunch is always wow-worthy. Forget moderation and prepare for a party that is a perennial hit with families, couples, friends or visitors. The beachfront property packs plenty in on the day with three restaurants teaming up, chefs at hot cooking stations, drinks stations galore and entertainment for all ages. It’s a longstanding classic that thoroughly earns its place among the best.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Beach Resort & Marina, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs485 soft, Dhs625 sparkling, Dhs715 premium, Dhs325 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @westindubai

BUSSOLA, JGE

A relaxed family brunch is what Saturdays are for at Bussola in JGE. During the cooler months, a table on the terrace is a lovely spot to enjoy a sharing menu of Italian classics and free-flowing drinks.

Jumeirah Golf Estates, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs570 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 586 7760. @bussolabyjge

CANARY CLUB

Good food, good vibes and an open bar – Tiki’s Rituals Brunch on the rooftop of Canary Club is an all-singing, all-dancing party of resident and guest DJs, dancers and entertainment, plus a three-course meal. Stay for the after-party where drinks packages start from Dhs275. Banyan Tree Residences, Hillside, JLT, Sat, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs325 soft, Dhs425 house, Dhs525 bubbly, Dhs625 premium. Tel: (0)4 584 5999. @canarayclubdxb

CAFÉ NIKKI

This relaxed and refined restaurant at Nikki Beach Resort serves up an impressive spread of fresh international dishes buffet-style, with sharing mains served tableside. In signature Nikki Beach style, a resident DJ and musician entertain guests and there’s beach access at the resort after brunch for those who wish to carry on the afternoon.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa, Pearl Jumeira, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs500 house, Dhs700 premium, Dhs175 children three to 12. Tel: (0)4 376 6162. @nikkibeachresortdubai

CÉ LA VI

The elevated Skyline Brunch at CÉ LA VI pairs refined modern Asian dishes with the iconic views this hotspot is known and loved for. The menu highlights signature dishes and introduces some new highlights, too – such as a show-stopping seafood tower. Feeling fancy? Upgrade to the premium package, which also offers oysters and tender grilled baby chicken.

Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs390 soft, Dhs490 house, Dhs690 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 582 6111.

@celavidubai

CASABLANCA BEACH CLUB

At Atlantis, The Palm, enjoy a Saturday brunch in the restaurant of this colourful beach club, where a vibrant Mediterranean spread is designed to share over sun-drenched afternoons of drinks, bites and entertainment. Atlantis, The Palm, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs365 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs545 premium. Tel: (0)4 426 1000. @casablancabeachclubdxb

CHIC NONNA

The chic L’estate Chic Brunch takes over Chic Nonna every Saturday. The menu celebrates rich and refined Italian flavours, with rounds of hot and cold starters, a pasta course and à la carte choice of main. High-quality ingredients shine through the menu and generous portions designed to share are silver served with finesse by the team. As the music goes up, a curtain is pulled away to reveal a decadent dessert room, a fabulous final course to conclude an afternoon of Dolce Vita dining.

DIFC, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs575 house, Dhs800 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 605 2000. @chicnonnadubai

CHINA TANG

The Grand Tier Brunch at China Tang draws inspiration from Sir David Tang’s famously flamboyant dinner parties, fusing culinary storytelling with tableside theatrics. The fivecourse sharing brunch is paired with three hours of unlimited drinks and set to stunning live music that makes for a memorable afternoon. The Lana Promenade, Business Bay, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs398 soft, Dhs598 house, Dhs798 premium. Tel: (0)4 295 7464. @chinatang_dubai

CITY SOCIAL

A chic Saturday brunch awaits at City Social from Jason Atherton, where the food is close to flawless, the drinks flow all afternoon and the vibes are high from the moment you arrive. Brunch for free if it’s your birthday month, valid for bookings of six or more.

Grosvenor House Dubai, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs850 bubbly. Tel: (0)4 402 2222. @citysocial_dubai

CLAP

Explore innovative dishes, inventive cocktails and stunning decor for Instagram-worthy moments at the Buranchi brunch. Indulge in sushi, sashimi and other sharing platters, and enjoy fun-filled entertainment. Prepare for a lively one.

Gate Village Building 11, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs598 house, Dhs798 premium. Tel: (0)4 569 3820. @clapdxb

CLAW BBQ

Sure, it’s in a beautiful hotel on the Palm, but Claw BBQ is as close to an American dive bar as we’re going to get in Dubai. Head there for a lively All-American brunch, with games galore and a wild, mechanical bull to conquer.

Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft, Dhs299 house, Dhs399 premium, Dhs99 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 230 0054. @clawbbqthepalm

CLAY

Clay brings the party to Bluewaters every Saturday afternoon with its high-energy entertainment from Latin musicians and a DJ on duty. Book a table on the terrace for prime Ain Dubai and JBR views and stick around for the after-party, with drinks packages from Dhs150.

The Wharf, Bluewaters, Sat, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs445 house, Dhs545 premium. Tel: (0)4 422 5600. @clay_dubai

COYA

One of the most popular brunches in Dubai, Coya’s party brunch has been a staple on the city’s brunch scene for over a decade. A Peruvian feast of flavourful dishes, it’s all paired with bottomless cocktails – including Pisco sours – plus live music and DJ performances to keep the good times rolling. Four Seasons Village, Sat, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs405 soft, Dhs629 house, Dhs699 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 316 9600. @coyadubai

CROWNE PLAZA

DUBAI DEIRA

Family time, food and fun – that’s the order of the day at Spice Island’s Saturday brunch. There’s global cuisines from a selection of live cooking stations and a dedicated kids corner to keep little ones entertained with everything from face painting to baking. Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira, Sat, 12.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs125. Tel: (0)4 262 5555. @crowneplazadeira

DEMON DUCK

Indulge in fiery fare by chef Alvin Leung at this sophisticated restaurant at Banyan Tree Dubai. A three-hour package of signature dishes –including a sharing tower, dim sum station and BBQ station – is paired with free-flowing drinks and a live DJ.

Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs595 house, Dhs795 premium. Tel: (0)4 556 6466.

@demonduckdubai

EN FUEGO

Where better to fiesta than at Atlantis, The Palm’s South American restaurant? En Fuego’s Fiesta Mexicana Saturday brunch features live cooking stations whipping up a whole host of South American favourites. If the three hours of partying isn’t enough, the after-party from 4pm to 6pm will definitely add fuel to the fire. Atlantis, The Palm, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs550 sparkling. @enfuegodubai

EVA

A stylish party brunch at Palm West Beach, Eva’s lively Saturday soirée is as much about music and drinks as it is about the multi-course menu, although you’ll be impressed by the food: think oysters, burrata, truffle pizza and pistachio ice-cream. Once brunch concludes, the afterparty keeps things going until 8pm.

The Club, Palm West Beach, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs575 premium. Tel: (0)4 510 4800. @evabeachclub

FAIRMONT THE PALM

The whole family will love the Golden Ticket brunch at Fairmont The Palm’s all-day dining restaurant, Flow Kitchen. Inspired by Willy Wonka, this whimsical brunch invites guests into a world of culinary wonder with chocolate fountains, edible masterpieces and playful treats.

Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 1 pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs495 premium, Dhs595 Champagne, Dhs125 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 457 3388. @fairmontthepalm

FARINA BAR & GRILL

A social and stylish Saturday brunch awaits at Address Beach Resort. Tuck into a sharing-style menu in an upbeat atmosphere, all backdropped by some of the city’s best Ain Dubai views. Address Beach Resort, The Walk, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs275 soft, Dhs375 house, Dhs475 cocktails, Dhs775 Champagne, Dhs100 children four to 11. @addressbeachresort

FARMERS COMMONS

Saturdays at Farmers Commons are meant for slow afternoons and comfort food, as guests can enjoy the Generation Games Market Brunch, a farm-to-table buffet from 1pm to 4pm. A familyfriendly affair, there’s a play area and splash pad for the little ones.

Hotel Local Dubai, Jumeirah Village Triangle,

Autograph Collection, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft, Dhs299 house, Dhs399 premium. Tel: (0)4 545 2000. @hotellocaldubai

FELICITA

Secret Parties are at it again with a brand new addition to their roster of high energy Saturday afternoons, now bringing Secret Italiano Brunch to Downtown. Bringing together classic Italian dishes, cocktails and an atmosphere designed to impress, expect memorable performances, feel-good Italian anthems and an energetic afternoon.

Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai, Sat, 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 premium. Tel: (0)52 394 8090.

@secretpartiesdxb

FI’LIA

Fi’lia, the female-led Italian restaurant, presents La Festa Italiana, set on the outdoor terrace overlooking the breathtaking Burj Khalifa. Guests are invited to enjoy a spread of Italian classics served sharing style, two live stations the Panino station and a Cannoli trolley for dessert. With entertainment throughout the afternoon, it adds to the lively energy of the terrace, creating a space for long afternoons of food, conversation and fantastic company.

SLS Dubai, Business Bay, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs299 soft, Dhs449 house. Tel: (0)56 508 0655. @filiadubai

FIRELAKE GRILL HOUSE & COCKTAIL BAR

This backyard grill at the Radisson Blu hosts the Deep South Social on Saturdays, featuring American cuisine with a southern vibe and live entertainment. Think barbecue bites, small plates and seafood licked by fire. Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront, Business Bay, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 sparkling, Dhs110 children six to 12. Tel: (0)56 404 4169. @radissonbludubaiwaterfront

FLYING ELEPHANT

Music and mixology make the brunch at Flying Elephant a lively one. On the food front, there’s unlimited starters, a choice of main and then a choice of dessert. Danish Khan leads the live band and an after-party keeps things lively until 9pm.

Novotel Dubai Al Barsha, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft, Dhs299 house, Dhs399 premium. @flyingelephant.ae

THE FORE

Putting some serious wow-factor into the quintessential Dubai pastime is The Fore, a brunch that brings together four restaurants at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Enjoy dishes from Umi Kei, Madame Li, Mirabelle and The Bombay Club at this multi-concept culinary experience, with entertainment and marina-side terrace views adding to the spectacle.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs500 soft, Dhs750 Champagne, Dhs250 children over four. Tel: (800) 323232. @jumeirahmarsaalarab

GALLERY 7/40

After Secret Parties’ plate-smashing, statuedancing Friday evening brunch at Gallery 7/40 proved so popular, they added a new Saturday daytime offering. At Big Fat Greek Day Brunch, guests can tuck in to gourmet live stations and free-flowing drinks. The vibes are kept high all evening with singers, dancers, DJs and special acts, followed by an after-party from 4.30pm where brunch guests inevitably kick on to.

The Club, Palm West Beach, Sat, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs475 house, Dhs575 premium. Tel: (0)52 394 8098. @secretpartiesdxb

GARDEN ON 8

Why experiment with Saturday brunch elsewhere when you’ve got a trusted favourite like Garden on 8 hosting a grand garden party every week? That’s what the team at this cheeky little pub on the 8th floor of Media One will tell you. But as a beloved Saturday garden party, it remains a firm favourite on the expat circuit. Media One Hotel, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs299 house, Dhs399 premium. Tel: (0)52 144 7438. @gardenon8

GASTRO KITCHEN

Brunch in Bloom is a garden-inspired afternoon that promises colourful plates and playful vibes. Guests can enjoy an international spread of dishes and live entertainment. Be sure to bring your swimwear – there’s full access to the hotel pool and beach included.

Gastro Kitchen at Doubletree by Hilton DubaiJumeirah Beach, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs299 soft, Dhs399 house, Dhs499 bubbly, Dhs99 children under 12. @gastrokitchenjbr

GINGER MOON

Cool vibes, epic bets and gourmet eats. That’s what’s on the menu at Palmera brunch taking over this Cali-cool spot at W Dubai – Mina Seyhai. They offer a unique take on Californian cuisine: think crudo towers, oysters on ice, soft shell crab and skirt steak. W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Sat, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 cocktails, Dhs485 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 509 9998. @gingermoondxb

GITANO

The Saturday night fiesta at Gitano is where flavour, fire and flair collide, all under the sparkle of the beach club’s iconic disco balls. A high-energy evening, expect small plates like crispy chili chicken and Hamachi tostada to start, then signatures from the live station, mains, and an epic sweet finale of churros and tres leches.

J1 Beach, Jumeirah, Sat, 8pm to 11pm, from Dhs350 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 premium, Dhs795 Champagne. Tel: (0)58 566 2320. @gitano.dubai

GLORIA OSTERIA

From Milan to Dubai comes Gloria Osteria: a larger-than-life Italian restaurant with spectacular interiors and a picturesque outdoor terrace. Settle into a whimsical booth for a sundrenched Saturday afternoon of bold sharing plates paired with free-flowing drinks. Dessert lovers won’t want to miss the making of a supersized tiramisu.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, DIFC, Sat, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs400 soft, Dhs550 soft, Dhs800 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 577 8546. @gloriaosteria.dxb

GRAND HYATT DUBAI

Weekends are for food, family and fun, which is exactly what you can look forward to every Saturday at The Collective by Market Café. Set in the lush indoor gardens of Grand Hyatt Dubai, dine around the world at live stations, while little ones run wild with activities like face painting, balloon twisting and more. Grand Hyatt Dubai, Sat, 12.20pm to 4pm, Dhs249 soft, Dhs349 house, Dhs125 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 317 1234. @grandhyattdubai

THE GUILD

Brunch Society is a decadent ode to the good life at oh-so-chic The Guild. The first hour is for welcome Champagne and canapes, then service officially begins from 1pm. Expect live stations of brasserie delights and free-flowing drinks to keep both plates and glasses full.

ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, Sat, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs449 soft, Dhs549 house, Dhs749 sparkling.

Tel: (0)4 321 9142. @theguilddubai

HILTON DUBAI AL HABTOOR CITY

Turn your Saturday into a celebration of flavour at The Market. Wander through premium live cooking stations, indulge in dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world, and let little ones delight in fun-filled activities in the dedicated play area.

Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs269 soft, Dhs369 house, Dhs99 children. Tel: (0)4 435 5577. @hiltondubaiahc

HUTONG

Hutong presents guests with a brunch concept inspired by one of the grandest meals documented in the Chinese culinary legacy. The Imperial Brunch pays tribute to the Manchu-Han Imperial Feast, a legendary banquet in the Qing dynasty. The brunch begins with unlimited starters and delicate dim sum. For the main course, guests may select one specially curated dish each and end the evening on a sweet note with Hutong’s sharing dessert platter.

DIFC, Sat, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs288 soft, Dhs448 house, Dhs488 Prosecco, Dhs688 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 220 0868. @hutongdubai

INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

Every Saturday, Anise at InterContinental Dubai Festival City transforms into a global culinary journey, featuring eight live cooking stations where you can pile your plate with Arabic, Asian, Indian and European cuisines. There’s family entertainment and engaging kids’ activities, making this a brilliant one for all ages. InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs245 soft, Dhs345 house, Dhs125 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 701 1111. @intercondfc

IRIS

Iris’ multi-award-winning Saturday brunch with DJ Paul Svenson on the decks is the ultimate weekend party, with drinks packages, delicious bites and non-stop fun. Meydan, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs260 soft, Dhs360 wine, Dhs460 house, Dhs720 premium. Tel: (0)4 334 3355. @clubiris

JAMAVAR

The Royal Brunch at Michelin Starred Jamavar is a culinary celebration of India’s rich culinary heritage. There are vegetarian or nonvegetarian menus, each featuring rounds of street food, South Indian samplers and an à la carte choice of main, concluding with a burnt mango tart for dessert. Address Dubai Opera Residences, Downtown Dubai, Sat and Sun, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house. Tel: (0)4 553 7852. @jamavardubai

JOSETTE

This fabulously feminine DIFC hotspot Josette offers an exciting brunch serving a variety of French brasserie classics. Guests are treated to a beautifully presented, sharing- style menu offering freshly prepared viennoiseries, entrees, mains and decadent desserts.

ICD Brookfield, DIFC, Sat, noon to 5pm (threehour packages), Dhs395 soft, Dhs550 house, Dhs750 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 275 2522. @josettedubai

JOU JOU BRASSERIE

Be transported to sun-soaked days on the Mediterranean with a family-friendly brunch at this elegant Four Seasons spot. Seasonal dishes are presented at a gourmet buffet, alongside free-flowing drinks to further enhance the refined afternoon.

Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs485 soft, Dhs715 house, Dhs850 Champagne, Dhs240 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 270 7803. @joujoubrasserie

JUMEIRAH AL QASR

Lovers of decadent brunch spreads find the Al Qasr stalwart a perfect start to any weekend. Expect an elegant culinary feast with sumptuous delicacies from across the globe. The brunch menu includes an eclectic mix of international cuisines, all served from live cooking stations, paired with some brand new drink stations for the winter season.

Jumeirah Al Qasr, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs495 soft, Dhs595 house, Dhs695 sparkling, Dhs795 premium, Dhs350 children four to 12. Tel: (800) 323 232. @jumeirahalqasr

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL

Be transported under the sea with the magicmakers behind Family Brunch Dubai. Taking over Jumeirah Beach Hotel’s all-day dining restaurant every Saturday, this aquatic-themed afternoon promises mermaids, magic and a host of friendly sea creatures to entertain little ones, while adults enjoy the gourmet spread of international cuisines and live music.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Sat, 12.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs345 soft, Dhs445 house, Dhs525 premium, Dhs730 Champagne, Dhs165 children four to 11.

Tel: (0)50 836 1513. @undertheseabrunch

JUMEIRAH MINA AL SALAM

Experience a whole new world of wonders while indulging in colourful cuisines from around the world at the fun-filled Agrabah family brunch. Take in the stunning Burj Al Arab views and enjoy non-stop entertainment that will leave little brunchers in awe, from princess appearances to magic shows.

Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs430 house, Dhs530 premium, Dhs730 Champagne, Dhs150 children four to 11.

Tel: (0)50 836 1513. @agrabahbrunchdubai

KAIMANA

Lost in Paradise is the name of Candypants’ newest party brunch, which takes over the tropical Kaimana at J1 Beach every Saturday afternoon. There’s a menu of bold pan-Asian dishes that have been laced with island flair to graze on, plus themed cocktails, live entertainment and a solid soundtrack of all your favourite party hits.

J1 Beach, Sat, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs475 house, Dhs675 premium, Dhs775 Champagne. Tel: (0)58 177 9831. @kaimanabeachdubai

KAYTO

Indulge in Kayto’s coastal-inspired Nikkei brunch, where bright, balanced flavours take centre stage with a menu of curated ceviches, handcrafted sushi, robata-style grills and flavourful desserts. Set against iconic views of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, this leisurely Saturday experience is relaxed and refined. Jumeirah Al Naseem, Sat, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs600 house, Dhs795 Champagne. Tel: (800) 323232. @kaytodubai

LA BRASSERIE SUR LE BOULEVARD

Set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, this alfresco brunch brings France’s finest foodie regions to life through a delectable Saturday afternoon spread. From vibrant Provençal markets to the azure coasts, expect fresh seafood on ice, à la minute shucked oysters, pan-seared Foie Gras, pasta prepared on a parmesan wheel and a live grill featuring an assortment of meat cuts. For dessert, savour the sweet end with French waffles, Crepes Suzette, and more.

Kempinski The Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs320 soft, Dhs450 house. Tel: (0)4 561 8888. @kempinskitheboulevard

LA NIÑA

Experience the vibrant spirit of Spain at La Comida, La Niña’s take on the traditional Spanish brunch. Indulge in a sharing-style set menu featuring authentic tapas like truffle croquettas, garlic prawns and a langoustine paella. The afternoon quickly becomes a lively affair with live music elevating the ambience. ICD Brookfield, DIFC, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs450 house, Dhs550 premium. Tel: (0)4 395 1300. @laninadubai

LAPITA

The Lu’WOW Weekender Brunch at Lapita brings a vibrant tropical twist to Dubai’s brunch scene every Saturday. Taking over several venues – including Kalea and Kahun – guests can expect an afternoon of themed dancers, circus acts, roaming characters and plenty of kids’ activities at this Polynesian-inspired paradise, making for a fantastic afternoon of family fun. Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs300 soft, Dhs400 house, Dhs500 sparkling, Dhs150 children four to 11. @luwowbrunchdubai

LOCK STOCK & BARREL, JBR

Not for those with sensitive ears, Lock Stock is loud and proud with a maddening crowd. Come for a good time, dive into the bar bites, down all the drinks and enjoy live music as the confetti canons go boom – it’s wild.

Rixos Premium JBR – The Walk, Sat, 5pm to 8pm, Dhs275 soft, Dhs325 house, Dhs425 sparkling. @lockstockuae

LUCIA’S

Perfectly framing the Burj Al Arab, experience a trip to Southern Italy with quintessential Dubai wow-factor at Lucia’s. It’s as much about food as it is entertainment, with a playful interactive Sgroppino trolley and live musicians creating a festive ambience.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs625 premium. Tel: (0)4 262 3595. @luciasdubai

MAIDEN SHANGHAI

Saturdays at FIVE Palm Jumeirah is a party brunch rite of passage. Head to the multiaward-winning Naughty Noodles Brunch from 1pm onwards and enjoy unlimited gourmet Chinese food and specially crafted cocktails with fabulous roving live entertainment and a DJ spinning high-energy tunes. Join in the fun at the after-brunch party from 4.30pm until 7pm and take advantage of three drinks for Dhs120 offer – it is the weekend, after all.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs550 premium. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @maidenshanghaidubai

THE MAINE OYSTER BAR & GRILL

Oh My Grill is the name of the Saturday brunch at this much-loved JBR brasserie. A sharing-style menu starts with shucked oysters, then continues with the stalwart fish tacos, among the starters. For the main course, there’s options like prawns a la plancha, NY sirloin and the always popular Maine burger, alongside top-shelf sides that include the house salad and the What’s On fave, the charred Brussels sprouts. Expect a fully open bar, featuring a variety of specialty crowd-favourite bloody Marys that you’ll only find at The Maine.

DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR, Sat and Sun, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs440 house, Dhs630 prosecco, Dhs750 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 457 6719. @themainedxb

MAYABAY

Nestled in the corner of Jumeirah Al Naseem’s turtle lagoon, MayaBay offers an eclectic Asian-inspired brunch with multiple choices of starters, main courses and desserts along with free-flowing dim sum, sushi and sashimi. Jumeirah Al Naseem, Sat and Sun, 12pm to 3pm, Dhs425 soft, Dhs595 house, Dhs795 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 275 2500. @mayabaydubai

McGETTIGAN’S JLT

The Grafton Street Saturday Brunch means unlimited access to the carvery and buffet, plus drinks, live music, and fun and games. Guaranteed good times, with the option to keep the party going with after-party packages between 5pm to 8pm from Dhs149. Cluster I, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs199 house, Dhs299 premium. @mcgettigansjlt

MEZZANINE BAR & KITCHEN

The three-course brunch menu at Mezzanine is all about British classics, unlimited drinks and live music in a scenic waterfront setting that’s perfect for when you’ve got visitors in town. Pick your three-hour slot from 12pm to 7pm. Madinat Jumeirah, Sat, 12pm to 7pm (threehour packages), Dhs365 house. Tel: (0)58 599 4659. @mezzaninedubai

MI AMIE

This colourful rooftop serves up Miami vibes with its Havana Nights every Saturday evening. Vibrant food, entertainment and drinks promise the ultimate party atmosphere, with a four-course sharing menu paired with stunning views and a fun-filled feel.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers, DIFC, Sat, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 premium, Dhs795 Champagne. Tel: (0)52 394 8090. @secretpartiesdxb

MIMI KAKUSHI

This slick spot sharpens its sushi slicing knives for a three-hour session every Saturday and Sunday. Leading the unstoppable global Japanese culinary takeover, Mimi Kakushi’s impeccable team presents an impressive menu of signatures paired with wines, sake and cocktails, with the ambience enhanced by a live singer and pianist.

Mimi Kakushi, Four Seasons Resort, Sat and Sun, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs599 house, Dhs765 premium. Tel: (0)4 379 4811. @mimikakushi

MOTT 32

On Saturdays, Mott 32 is Brunch No.32, where guests can tuck into the best dishes that combine contemporary Hong Kong cuisine with traditional Asian cookery. There’s a premium for terrace seating, which comes with jaw-dropping views from the 74th floor.

Address Beach Resort, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs545 house. Tel: (0)4 278 4832. @mott32dubai

NETSU

Dubai’s first Warayaki-style brunch takes place at this sleek Japanese steakhouse. Diners can sample a wide-ranging menu of Netsu’s favourites including the warayaki tuna tataki, Korean fried chicken and salmon tacos, followed by a choice of main from options like the Australian Wagyu ribeye and miso Chilean seabass. A live DJ and musician make the Netsu brunch an elevated, vibrant way to spend a Saturday.

Mandarin Oriental, Jumeira, Sat, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs550 house, Dhs750 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 777 2232. @netsudubai

NINIVE BEACH

This Middle Eastern-inspired spot at J1 Beach is a beautifully refined space for a Saturday afternoon that turns into evening. Its sunset rituals brunch offers three packages from 2pm to 5pm, 5.30pm to 8.30pm or 9pm to midnight, pairing a set menu with unlimited drinks. J1 Beach, Sat, 2pm to 5pm, 5.30pm to 8.30pm, 9pm to 12am, Dhs450 soft, Dhs650 premium, Dhs750 Champagne. @ninivebeachdubai

NUSKA

A chic beachfront setting backdrops laidback weekend brunches at Nuska. The culinary spotlight here shines on Mediterranean and Levantine flavours, masterfully combined and artfully plated across a three-course brunch –with each accompanied by thoughtfully paired beverages for an iconic dining experience. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Sat and Sun, 12pm to 3pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house. Tel: (800) 323232. @nuskadubai

O BEACH DUBAI

Ibiza’s ultimate pool party destination has landed in JBR, bringing with it a roster of lively events featuring wow-factor entertainment and those orange cups. On Saturdays, it’s all about O Brunch, taking place from 1pm to 5pm in collaboration with Secret Parties. Sure, you can tuck in to dishes like spicy prawn tacos and loaded nachos, but it’s all about the pool access and entertainment, which comes in the form of a saxophonist, drummer and live DJ.

Habtoor Grand, Autograph Collection, JBR, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs345 soft, Dhs425 house, Dhs475 premium, bed packages from Dhs2,000 for four. Tel: (0)52 394 8098. @secretpartiesdxb

PAI THAI

Journey through the ancient flavours of Thailand at Pai Thai. Perched serenely on the edge of the Madinat Jumeirah waterways, it’s a lovely setting for a sharing-style menu of signature dishes.

Jumeirah Al Qasr, Sat, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs275 soft, Dhs395 house. Tel: (800) 323232. @paithaidubai

PALAZZO VERSACE HOTEL DUBAI

A big hitter on the family fun brunch scene, Palazzo Versace’s Giardino’s Into the Jungle brunch guarantees an exclusive and enjoyable experience for the whole gang with DJs, a magician and loads of kids’ activities. Bring your swimwear – as there’s complementary pool access post-brunch.

Palazzo Versace Dubai, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs570 sparkling, Dhs810 premium, Dhs165 children four to 11. Tel: (0)4 556 8888. @intothejungledubai

PAPAFUKU

New at Media One Hotel, this vibrant panAsian restaurant’s new Saturday brunch is the perfect mix of sharing dishes served to the table, live stations, stretching views of Media City and live entertainment.

Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, Sat, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs299 soft, Dhs399 house, Dhs499 cocktails. Tel: (0)4 328 1561. @papafukudxb

PAPAS

A new chapter of warm hospitality and lively Italian dining at Papas comes with the Nonna’s House brunch. Start with a classic spritz from the Aperol trolley, then settle in for a sharingstyle Italian feast, complete with pastas made in cheese wheels, then round out the afternoon with a trip (or two) to the dessert table. With limoncello surprises, free-flowing drinks and toe-tapping tunes, expect a fun-filled afternoon by the Marina.

Intercontinental Dubai Marina, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs325 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs450 sparkling. @papasdubai

PIATTI BY THE BEACH

Bringing La Dolce Vita to Raffles The Palm’s shorefront every Saturday afternoon is Piatti by the Beach’s Southern Italian brunch. There are quintessential Italian flavours – concluding with a refreshing lemon sorbet and timeless tiramisu, served to a resident DJ and live singer.

Raffles The Palm, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs380 soft, Dhs450 wine, Dhs550 house, Dhs900 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 248 8888. @piattibythebeach

RADISSON DUBAI DEIRA CREEK

Bringing back old favourites from their first restaurants back in 1975 is Aseelah’s nostalgic heritage brunch. There’s Middle Eastern, Western, Indian and seafood stations to discover, with guests invited to pile their plates as many times as they wish.

Radisson Blu Dubai Deira Creek, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs245 soft, Dhs99 extra for 5 drinks, Dhs149 extra for unlimited drinks. Tel: (0)4 205 7033. @radissonbludxb

THE RITZ-CARLTON DUBAI, JBR

The much-loved London Social Garden Brunch at The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, serves up a spread of wow-worthy international dishes all backdropped by stunning Ain Dubai views. Quintessential British beverages and live entertainment further elevate this brilliant alfresco brunch.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, JBR, Sat, 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs399 soft, Dhs599 sparkling, Dhs899 Champagne, Dhs200 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 399 4000. @ritzcarltondubai

ROKA

Renowned for its award-winning contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine, Roka Dubai now offers a Saturday live station brunch. The live stations feature cold and hot starters, while main courses served to the table include sea bream fillet and cedar roast baby chicken. This is a family-friendly affair, with games, toys and activities for little ones.

The Opus by Omniyat, Level 1, Business Bay, Sat, 12pm to 3pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs495 Prosecco, Dhs150 extra for Champagne. Tel: (0)4 439 7171. @rokadubaiofficial

SAFFRON

Dubai’s most iconic brunch party is a musttry Dubai experience. Brunch-goers can sip on bubbly or secret sauce slushies from one of Saffron’s legendary drink stations and take their pick of cuisines from across the globe with more than 220 delicious dishes to choose from. Alongside live DJs, Dubai’s bucket-list brunch also features round-the-clock entertainment, including dancers and singers. Strictly over 21s. Atlantis The Palm, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs525 house, Dhs575 sparkling, Dhs775 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 426 2626. @saffronbrunch

SEXY FISH

Home to one of Dubai’s newest brunches – and the city’s most Instagrammable toilets – London-born Sexy Fish presents a generous all-inclusive package every Saturday afternoon. Elevated dishes and craft cocktails are paired with a line-up of live music, DJs and performances that make this a thrilling afternoon experience.

Innovation One, DIFC, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs480 soft, Dhs640 house, Dhs811 premium. Tel: (0)4 381 9000. @sexyfishdxb

SHANG PALACE

This renowned Asian restaurant showcases a rich Cantonese dim sum tradition at the Dim Sum Brunch. Of course, there’s an extensive dim sum selection, but the menu also includes soups, spring rolls, pan-fried shrimps and a wok-fried section, plus sweet desserts.

Shangri-La Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Sat and Sun, 12pm to 3.30pm, Dhs228 soft, Dhs388

house, Dhs588 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 405 2703. @shangpalace.dubai

SHI

Every Saturday and Sunday, SHI at Bluewaters Island presents the Dynasty Brunch, a decadent journey through modern Asian flavours. Dishes like Peking duck rolls, sweet and sour chicken and beef in black pepper sauce are just a handful of the highlights, served up alongside free-flowing drinks. Pick between a 1pm or 2pm timeslot to start.

Bluewaters, Sat and Sun, 1pm to 4pm or 2pm to 5pm, Dhs325 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs650 premium. Tel: (04 393 99 90 @shi.dxb

SOBREMESA

Hacienda Brunch at Sobremesa brings bold flavours, lively music and share-style dining together for a spirited afternoon. With a live soundtrack from “That Mexican Guy” DJ and playful moments like the table-nominated Piñata smash, expect great food, lots of fun and guaranteed good times.

Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs275 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs395 premium. @sobremesa.dubai

SON OF A FISH

Saturdays at Son of a Fish are made for long, laid-back lunches that gradually turn up the volume. The experience begins with a generous selection of cold and hot mezedes, followed by your choice of main, sides, and dessert. From chicken souvlaki and classic moussaka to chargrilled tenderloin and Mediterranean seabass, it’s a foodie-meets-party brunch.

Dubai Harbour, Sat, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs290 soft, Dhs390 wine, Dhs490 house, Dhs660 premium. @sonofafish

SOUL KITCHEN

Big Bad Brunch is Soul Kitchen’s bold take on the Saturday brunch scene. Taking their Lebanese-Latin fusion food to the next level, the there are five different types of brunch package, messy plates, flavour fusions and some of the best entertainment in town.

Marasi Drive, Business Bay, Sat, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs225 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs495 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 836 0900. @soulkitchendxb

SOUL ST.

The SoulCaliCool Brunch at FIVE Jumeirah Village takes over both graffiti-laden Soul St and vibrant Mimi’s Pool Club for an afternoon of global street food, colourful entertainment and free-flowing drinks. The after-party keeps things going until 7pm.

FIVE Jumeirah Village, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs249 ladies, Dhs299 gents. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @soulstreetdubai

THE SPANIEL

The Spaniel Brunch brings playful British spirit to Bluewaters with generous brasserie plates, free-flowing drinks and a soundtrack that builds from live singer to DJ-led celebration. Designed for lively afternoons that turn into evenings, it’s a social, high-energy brunch for those who like their weekends done right.

The Wharf, Bluewaters, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs299 soft, Dhs399 house, Dhs499 premium. Tel: (0)52 773 4874. @thespanieldxb

STK DUBAI JBR

There’s a regular rotation of brunches and ladies’ nights at this perennially popular JBR steakhouse. These days, Saturdays are for the Vegas brunch, with dazzling performances and a party atmosphere dictating the tempo at both the afternoon and evening packages. Expect a tasty three-course meal all while enjoying a matinée of epic proportions.

Rixos Premium Dubai JBR – The Walk, Sat 1pm to 4pm, Dhs425 soft, Dhs475 wine, Dhs525 house, Dhs550 premium. @stkdubaijbr

THE STRAND

The sunset brunch at The Strand is a threehour experience of Mediterranean dishes and laidback vibes. Start with tzatziki and eggplant dip on arrival, then pick a starter from options like baked feta or fish tacos, mains like steak and chips or spinach ravioli, then desserts of burnt basque cheesecake or churros. The drinks selection includes signature cocktails and prosecco with the house package.

Palm Views West, Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 5pm onwards (three-hour packages), Dhs330 soft, Dhs495 house. Tel: (0)4 430 2221. @strandcraftkitchen

STREETXO

Embark on a flavour-packed journey through diverse dishes, paired with Instagrammable cocktails and show-stopping entertainment. The sharing-style menu promises elevated street food with global inspirations, particularly from Spain and the Far East. Dishes include Wagyu croquetas, sweet and sour hamachi octopus tacos, and bogavante featuring king crab and caviar.

One&Only One Za’abeel, Za’abeel 1, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs444 soft, Dhs555 house, Dhs777 premium. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @streetxodubai

TABŪ

The Samurai Night Brunch is a fusion of elevated Japanese dishes, unlimited drinks and live entertainment from roaming performers and DJ sets. The menu begins starters of sushi, hamachi tartare and crispy squid, then a choice of mains from options like misoyaki cod, striploin beef or lamb chops. The experience concludes with a decadent dessert platter featuring TABŪ’s signature chocolate bomb.

St. Regis, Downtown Dubai, Sat, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs333 soft, Dhs444 house, Dhs555 premium. Tel: (0)4 512 5555. @tabudubai

TASCA

Curated by chef José Avillez, this Michelinstarred restaurant serves up one of the best brunches in town. Back after a summer break, dine on the alfresco terrace or inside near the show kitchen and embark on a culinary flavour flight through Portugal’s finest ingredients across five courses.

Mandarin Oriental, Jumeira, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs550 house, Dhs750 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 777 2231. @tascadubai

TÊTE-À-TÊTE

Tête-à-Tête at FIVE LUXE, JBR, hosts the Bisou Bisou Brunch, a chic French Riviera–inspired Saturday affair featuring a threecourse menu, free-flowing drinks and live performances. After brunch finishes, the parties flows over to Paradiso Dubai to keep the energy high.

FIVE LUXE, JBR, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs550 bubbly. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @teteatetedubai

TJ’S

This relaxed gastropub in Taj JLT serves up a whole host of wallet-friendly deals, from the longest happy hour in JLT to ladies’ nights and hotelier specials. And on weekends, Saturday nights at TJ’s mean great food, handcrafted drinks, and a lively yet laid-back sports bar atmosphere ideal for catching up with friends. Taj JLT, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Sat, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs149 soft, Dhs199 house, Dhs349 sparkling. @tjs.dubai

TRADER VIC’S

HILTON DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH

Experience a Tahitian holiday in just one afternoon with Trader Vic’s’ Puka Puka brunch. Available to enjoy only at Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, guests are treated to the best Trader Vic’s has to offer – including unlimited Tiki Puka Puka’s.

Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs325 soft, Dhs375 house, Dhs625 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 230 0050. @tradervicspalm

TRAITEUR

The classic Traiteur brunch is one of the dining highlights of Dubai’s alfresco season. An exquisite culinary experience with stunning views of the creek, expect outstanding cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs450 soft, Dhs575 sparkling, Dhs795 bubbly, Dhs895 premium. Tel: (0)4 602 1814. @parkhyattdubai

TUTTO PASSA

Experience the vibrant Taste of Amalfi brunch, a lively celebration of Italian flavours, music and sunshine. Set against interiors inspired by the golden hues of the Amalfi Coast, the brunch offers a buffet-style feast featuring live stations, immersive kids’ activities, and live music that keeps the energy flowing nicely throughout the afternoon.

Delano Dubai, Bluewaters, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs375 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs695 Champagne, Dhs150 children four to 12. Tel: (0)4 556 6466. @delanodubai

VERA VERSILIA

Be transported to the sun-soaked Italian Riviera with a relaxed Versilia Brunch. In true Tuscan spirit, the brunch celebrates Ferragosto, where long, leisurely feasts, laughter and sunshine define a day of togetherness and culinary indulgence.

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Sat, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs695 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 409 5111. @veraversilia

VIDA EMIRATES HILLS

The Sol Saturdays brunch at Origins promises brunch classics with a wide selection of cocktails and mocktails to be enjoyed poolside. Bring your swimmers for a sunbathe post brunch.

Vida Emirates Hills, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs220 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs299 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 872 8888. @vidahotels

WALDORF ASTORIA DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH

Once Upon A Brunch is a family-friendly affair at the Waldorf, taking place every Saturday within Mezzerie. Enjoy an afternoon of international food stations, live music, princess singers, fairy trails, balloon magic and a host of other garden games.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs549 house, Dhs690 premium, Dhs100 children seven to 12. @onceuponabrunch

WEST 13

On the 13th floor of the world’s tallest hotel, West 13 invites guests to dine in its bright, naturally lit dining room on a menu of Mediterranean flavours. Think sharing plates served up to live entertainment, with plenty of drinks to keeps the vibes high.

Ciel Dubai Marina, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft, Dhs299 house, Dhs550 Champagne.

WORLD CUT STEAKHOUSE

A sophisticated and indulgent afternoon of fine flavours and premium dining awaits at World Cut, the elevated steakhouse in Habtoor City. Curated for true connoisseurs, savour premium meats, house sips and listen to live entertainment.

Habtoor Palace, Habtoor City, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs795. Tel: (0)4 435 5577. @alhabtoorpalace

XU

Brunchflix is the Saturday offering at XU, serving up entertainment and dishes deserving of the big screen. Whether you’re dining in the restaurant by the bar or DJ, or enjoying the tropical feel of the terrace, expect three hours of sharing plates and free-flowing drinks, perfect for grazing on as you catch up.

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Sat, 1pm to 5pm (three-hour packages), Dhs295 soft, Dhs425 house, Dhs585 premium. Tel: (0)4 394 6252. @xurestaurantdubai

ZALA

Retreat to the desert for a garden-inspired brunch at Bab Al Shams. Indulge in a buffet of international flavours, great beverages, live entertainment and plenty of space for the little ones to blow off some steam in a charming desert setting.

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs495 house. Tel: (0)4 809 6194. @babalshamshotel

ZENZI BEACH

Enjoy a family-friendly afternoon on the shores of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray with the Jardin Rosé Family Brunch. Enjoy a set menu of dishes

served to the table, with live entertainment from a DJ and saxophonist. You can also make the most of the alfresco season by dining on a table on the terrace.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs450 premium. Tel: (0)4 453 0444. @zenzibeach

ZETA 77

A high-energy Saturday brunch with not one –but three – seatings at this stunning adults-only spot atop Address Beach Resort. Think panAsian sharing platters and bites, free-flowing drinks (don’t miss the Aperol Spritz station) and live entertainment.

Address Beach Resort, JBR, Fri, 1pm to 4.30pm, 5pm to 8.30pm and 9pm to 12.30am, Dhs377 soft, Dhs477 house, Dhs577 premium, Dhs777 Champagne. @addressbeachresort

ZUMA

Zuma’s Baikingu Brunch incorporates all the best that Zuma has to offer, beginning with a selection of starters, including Zuma’s signature shrimp tempura, crispy fried squid, as well as an assortment of sashimi, nigiri and maki. Plus, options from the live robata cooking station, followed by signature main courses, including miso marinated black cod and grilled Australian wagyu ribeye, finishing things off with sweet desserts.

Gate Village 06, Podium Level, DIFC, Sat, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs545 soft, Dhs645 Prosecco, Dhs795 Champagne, Dhs255 children four to 12. Tel: (0)4 425 5660. @zumadubai

THE 305

Be transported to the sun-soaked shores of Miami at The 305, with tropical dishes, chilled vibes and the typical poolside glamour you’d expect from Palm West Beach. Dine on a three-course menu of Cali-cool cuisine and sip on refreshing drinks with an afternoon of fun in the sun. The Club, Palm West Beach, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs300 soft, Dhs350 house, Dhs450 sparkling. @the305dubai

AL NAFOORAH

Take a trip to the heart of Lebanon every Sunday with the Cedar Brunch by Al Nafoorah. A truly nostalgic brunch experience headlined by traditional mezze, mixed grills and kunafa – among other delicacies. Jumeirah Al Qasr, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs375 soft, Dhs475 house, Dhs575 sparkling, Dhs175 children five to 12. Tel: (800) 323 232. @alnafoorahdubai

ALIZÉE

Taking place every Sunday at the picturesque Alizée Restaurant’s terrace in Banyan Tree Dubai, this family-friendly spread comes with a sharing-style menu, dedicated kids corner and live entertainment. Keep an eye out for pass-around trolleys serving up seafood platters and the filet de boeuf.

Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs495 soft, Dhs595 house, Dhs695 premium, Dhs175 children four to 12. Tel: (0)4 556 6466. @alizeedubai

ANDALIMAN

Bringing a taste of Bali to an urban setting at One&Only One Za’abeel is Andaliman’s Sunday brunch. Taking place from 1pm to 4pm, the Andaliman Sunday brunch invites guests to step into a tropical paradise where the scents of Indonesian cuisine blend seamlessly with the enchanting décor and lush poolside greenery. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, a live DJ spins soulful rhythms. One&Only One Za’abeel, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs245 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs120 children seven to 12. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @andalimandubai

ARROGANTE

Enjoy a family-friendly afternoon feast with La Dolce Domenica Sunday brunch. Traditional dishes include a fresh salad station to start, á la carte choice of main and dessert to end things on a sweet note. Perfect for families, there’s pizza making for children and an ice-cream station. Address Residences, Dubai Opera District, Downtown, Sun, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs375 house, Dhs425 premium.

Tel: (0)4 570 3653. @arrogantedubai

BE BEACH

A stunning afternoon of fun in the sun awaits at Be Beach’s Saiana brunch. Gaze out over the Dubai Marina skyline while dining on a menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes from live cooking stations and free-flowing drinks. Dubai Harbour, Sun, 2pm to 6pm, Dhs320 soft, Dhs420 house, Dhs520 premium. Tel: (0)54 751 1119. @bebeachdxb

THE BEAM BY NICK ALVIS

A brilliant new addition to the restaurant scene at Le Royal Meridien, star chef Nick Alvis’ tribute to European bistro-style dining welcomes all ages for a family Sunday brunch. The three-course menu features highlights like the pulled burrata with baby vine tomatoes, grilled seabass with lemon and beurre blanc and poached rhubarb crumble and custard. For an extra Dhs190, opt for the premium-roast – a show-stopping dry-aged Westholme Wagyu sirloin.

Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs495 premium, Dhs145 children five to 12. Tel: (0)4 316 5555 @thebeamdubai

BLA BLA DUBAI

The ultimate Sunday indulgence takes place at Bla Bla’s poolside brunch. Dive into a range of dishes and unlimited house drinks while listening to DJ and enjoy roaming entertainment. Your sun lounger is included. Bla Bla Dubai, JBR, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs399 house. Tel: (0)4 584 4111.

@blabladubai

BOARDWALK

Nonna’s table is a relaxed way to enjoy Sunday afternoon dining alfresco at Boardwalk. A celebration of authentic Italian cooking, dishes are made using recipes that have been passed down through the generations. Dubai Creek Resort, Sun, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs200 food only, Dhs350 with two hours of free-flowing drinks. Tel: (0)4 602 1583.

@boardwalkdubai

BOHEMIA

While Saturdays see a roster of international DJs grace the decks of Bohemia, on Sundays, the FIVE Palm beach club is the backdrop for a Nikkei-style feast. There’s deep house tunes and soulful live instruments providing the entertainment, with sharing-style dishes and free-flowing drinks keeping you fuelled.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Sun, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs289 soft, Dhs349 house, Dhs429 premium. Tel: (0)58 100 9289.

@bohemiabyfive

BUBBALICIOUS (THE ROAST)

Hosted in the grand surroundings of Mina’s Kitchen, The Roast by Bubbalicious offers several carvery options, plus whole suckling pig, seafood, shepherd’s pie, charcuterie, a fish ‘n’ chips stand, and a range of drinks carts and pop-up bars serving up gin cocktails, bubbly and espresso martinis.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Beach Resort & Marina, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs315 soft, Dhs385 house, Dhs485 premium, Dhs175 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 511 7373.

@westindubai

BUSSOLA

Enjoy a delightful foray of the chef’s specials with Italian house drinks, overlooking the Westin’s idyllic beach at this long-standing Italian. In alfresco season, few places are better than the split-level terrace, where tables enjoy lovely views of the beach.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs365 house. Tel: (0)4 511 7373.

@bussoladubai

CALA VISTA

Settle in for a chic Italian Sunday brunch, where generous plates of hearty Italian classics are designed for sharing with loved ones. Sip on a choice of refreshing drinks and listen to a feel-good soundtrack in a gorgeous Burj Al Arab-facing terrace.

Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, Sun, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs375 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 sparkling and cocktails. Tel: (800) 323232.

@calavistadubai

Bussola

CHEZ WAM

If you don’t go to brunch at this St. Regis Gardens gem for chef Hadrien’s all-star menu, then definitely go for the retro tunes, putting the fun into Sunday afternoons with hits that you’ll love singing along to. Interactive additions include a song request sheet and a DIY Bloody Mary station.

St. Regis Gardens, Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Sun, 1pm to 5pm, Dhs395 soft, Dhs425 rosé wine, Dhs535 house, Dhs775 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 410 6707.

@chezwamdubai

CQ FRENCH BRASSERIE

At CQ French Brasserie’s Sunday Lunch, guests gather over a two-course meal of the brasserie’s best-loved dishes. Perfect for family catchups and get-togethers with friends, enjoy classics like steak frites and free-range chicken, paired with free-flowing drinks – and an optional dessert upgrade for Dhs33. Movenpick JLT, Cluster A, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs218 soft, Dhs268 wine, Dhs347 wine and beer. Tel: (0)4 514 9339. @cqbrasserie

LAGUNA BEACH TAVERNA

Round out the weekend with a seaside celebration. Catch-up with your besties over Mediterranean bites and pours of crisp rose wine, while enjoying the relaxed beach setting at Sofitel Dubai The Palm.

Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs150 food only, Dhs294 including two hours of house wine. Tel: (0)4 455 6677.

@lagunabeachdubai

LAKEVIEW

A great way for families to finish off the weekend, the Backyard Movie Brunch has endless activities for little ones – including an alfresco movie screening while the adults enjoy musical entertainment and all the latest live sports while feasting on crowd-pleasing brunch dishes.

Dubai Creek Resort, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs195 soft, Dhs325 sparkling. Tel: (0)4 602 1524. @lakeviewdubai

LEÑA

Soulful Sundays invites guests to experience Leña’s take on a Spanish weekend, where the aroma of fire-cooked dishes lingers, guests sip on Leña’s signature crafted drinks and the smooth sounds of De Cruz Jazz Duo fill the air. Choose to dine either in Leña’s wood-soaked dining room, or out on the spacious terrace. St Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs275. @lenadubai

MARE BY BUSSOLA

A sun-soaked Sunday escape, enjoy a day of laidback luxury at Mare by Bussola. Indulge in a spread of fresh seafood, homemade pasta and grilled specialities, all served against the backdrop of serene poolside views with

entertainment from a DJ and live musicians adding to the Riviera-inspired ambience. The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Sun, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 bubbly.

@westindubai

MIMI MEI FAIR

The Dim Sum Dynasty Brunch at MiMi Mei Fair offers a refined celebration of Chinese culinary heritage. The experience begins with a theatrical unveiling of the grand Dim Sum Dynasty basket, followed by an individual choice of main, then a beautifully presented dessert platter.

Downtown Dubai, Sun, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs198 food only, Dhs288 soft, Dhs398 house. Tel: (0)4 570 0825. @mimimeifair.ae

MOWSEM

Unicorns, singing princesses, magicians and wizards – the brand-new Imagination Sunday Brunch at Mowsem in Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah is a fun-filled family affair. As the kids are thoroughly entertained all afternoon, adults can dig into Chef Christian’s big buffet. Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Sun, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs325 soft, Dhs425 house, Dhs525 sparkling, Dhs150 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 230 0073. @hiltondubaipalm

SEAGRILL BISTRO

Sit back and take in all that a Mediterranean menu can offer at this stalwart restaurant at Fairmont The Palm. On Sundays, a spread of hearty dishes from salmon tartare to grilled seafood is served against a backdrop of scenic Arabian Gulf views.

Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs225 soft, Dhs295 house.

Tel: (0)4 457 3457. @fairmontthepalm

SOFITEL DUBAI THE PALM

The Family Fiesta Brunch at The World Eatery has something for all ages. There’s cuisines from around the world – taking you to Latin America, Asia and Europe – freeflowing drinks for adults and a play area for little brunchers, featuring balloon modelling, magic shows and arts and crafts.

Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs120 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 455 6677. @sofiteldubaipalm

TAMOKA

Make the most of beach weather with an outdoor brunch at this elevated South American restaurant on JBR. On the foodie front, think hearty grills and fresh ceviches, while live Colombian entertainment and gorgeous views create a lovely sun-soaked ambience for all.

The Ritz-Carlton, JBR, Sun, 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs379 soft, Dhs499 house, Dhs299 food only, Dhs200 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 318 6099. @tamokadubai

THAI KITCHEN

Be transported to the Golden Triangle with Thai Kitchen’s Sawasdee Sunday Brunch. Delight in a family-style sharing menu of signature Thai dishes that tantalise the tastebuds with flavours that range from sweet to spicy to sour.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Creek Resort, Sun, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs220 soft, Dhs375 house. Tel: (0)4 602 1814. @thaikitchendxb

YALUMBA

A Sunday funday the whole family will love, Yalumba’s Sunday afternoon feast is designed to offer endless thrills for little ones. There’s a play zone featuring activities like face painting, balloon art, magic shows, puppets, and arts and crafts. And while the little ones are entertained, adults can tuck into an international buffet of live stations with unlimited drinks.

Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Sun, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs225 soft, Dhs325 house, Dhs395 premium, Dhs115 children six to 12.

Tel: (0)4 702 2455. @yalumbadubai

THE BEACH HOUSE, ANANTARA MINA RAS AL KHAIMAH RESORT

A breezy Saturday brunch by the sea awaits at The Beach House. Enjoy the sea views from the terrace or keep cool inside and unwind with a family-style set menu of Mediterranean delights. Sip on three hours of drinks while listening to soulful tunes spun by the live DJ.

Anantara Mina Al Arab, Sat, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs275 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs650 premium. Tel: (0)7 204 2222. @anantararasalkhaimah

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON RESORT & SPA MARJAN ISLAND

“What happens at brunch, stays at brunch.”

That’s the motto at the cheeky Saturday fiesta

The Islander’s Brunch at the DoubleTree, a long-standing party brunch in Ras Al Khaimah. From burrata stations to Italian, South American and Asian cuisines, travel around the world one bite at a time, with a huge buffet and unlimited drinks for three hours.

DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs219 soft, Dhs319 house. Tel: (0)7 203 0104. @islandersbrunch

INTERCONTINENTAL RAS AL KHAIMAH MINA AL ARAB RESORT & SPA

At Levant & Nar, Brunch & Nar is a culinary voyage across the Levant, featuring aromatic mezze, fresh tabbouleh and classic brunch dishes. It’s all set against performances from a live duo, serene seaside views and wonderful surroundings. Stick around for the post-brunch party, with unlimited drinks until 6pm priced at Dhs150.

InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs175 soft, Dhs275 house, Dhs375 Champagne, Dhs85 children three to 12. Tel: (0)7 202 6666. @intercontinentalrasalkhaimah

McGETTIGAN’S FUJAIRAH

A trip to McGettigan’s is a rite of passage for any UAE resident, with this stalwart Irish pub found in locations across the emirates. On Saturdays, the Fujairah outpost puts a quintessential Irish twist on the beloved brunch format, with themed dishes, unlimited drinks and, of course, live music.

Fujairah Tennis Country Club, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs199 house, Dhs259 premium. Tel: (0)9 224 4880. @mcgettigansfjr

MÖVENPICK RESORT AL MARJAN ISLAND

Get your free-flowing weekend cheer in a family-friendly ambience every Saturday from 1pm to 4pm at Boons restaurant. International buffet selection, kids buffet and outdoor play area, live band, plus beach and pool access – it’s the perfect formula for a family day out. Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs225 soft, Dhs325 house. Tel: (0)7 246 0000. @movenpickalmarjan

RADISSON RESORT RAS AL KHAIMAH

The Seafood Shack is the place to head for a laidback Saturday brunch with friends and family. Enjoy signature dishes from the raw bar, small plates, mains and desserts all served to the table, three hours of free-flowing drinks and a live DJ playing commercial tunes.

Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah, Marjan Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs175 soft, Dhs235 house, Dhs295 sparkling, Dhs95 children six to 12. Tel: (0)7 204 9000. @radissonresortrasalkhaimah

ULA

Head to the beach of Ula Ras Al Khaimah for the glamourous Boho Brunch. Soulful and bringing with it the much-loved sounds of those laid-back Ibiza days, indulge in a superb sharing menu, accompanied by unlimited wines and crafted cocktails. Plus, there’s pool access until 10pm.

Al Marjan Island, Sat, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs300. Tel: (0)7 246 0199. @ulabeachrak

BDP BEACH

Linger longer with a sun-soaked afternoon at Ras Al Khaimah’s newest beach club, BDP Beach. With laidback vibes and a chic setting, guests can relax and enjoy the sounds of a resident DJ while tucking into French-inspired dishes designed to share. Hayat Island, Mina, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs240 soft, Dhs370 house, Dhs490 prosecco, Dhs640 Champagne. @bdpbeachrak

MEKONG, ANANTARA MINA RAS AL KHAIMAH

Taking you on a flavour-filled journey down the Mekong River path from the Tibetan Plateau to Southeast Asia, is the Sunday brunch at Mekong. Overlooking the serene mangroves, enjoy a sharing-style brunch served to the table, designed to round out the weekend in style.

Anantara Mina Al Arab, Sun, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, Dhs275 soft, Dhs395 house, Dhs137.50 children six to 12. Tel: (0)7 204 2222. @anantararasalkhaimah

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