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SHARING THE LOVE
We’ve been feeling a real sense of pride lately. Seeing UAE flags adorning buildings, cars and homes has been a simple but powerful reminder of the togetherness being felt across the country.
In the office, that’s translated into more conversations about the people and ideas shaping the UAE from the ground up – the brands and businesses building something here, day in, day out.
Because so much of what defines life in the UAE isn’t just what’s around us, but who’s behind it. The cafés we return to, the products we pick up, the names we come to recognise – all part of the everyday fabric of life here.
That spirit runs through this issue. Inside, we’re shining a light on the UAE’s
This month’s shout-out
homegrown heroes – from restaurants and wellness concepts to fashion labels, food producers and creative talent. We hear from the people behind them, sharing what the UAE means to them and how it continues to shape what they do. It’s a snapshot of what’s being made right here, right now.
Wherever this month takes you, we hope it leads to a few new discoveries (desserts or otherwise – see below), a few familiar favourites, and a renewed appreciation for the creativity and community around you.
Enjoy the issue.
The team entered into a hotly debated topic recently: ultimate desserts. And it sparked a lively conversation. There were claims that chocolate cakes can be more miss than hit, while one team member – who shall remain nameless – admitted to having never tried a banoffee pie! [Said team member has been ordered to remedy this immediately.]
TEAM’S POV
We answer the questions you didn’t even ask.
What’s your current food obsession?
Thomas Woodgate Group Content Director
“The coconut-smoked short ribs in a sticky rice roti at Manao. Such delicate handling of the rib with restraint use of smoking and a creative take on a roti – it’s a culinary out-ofbody experience.”
Leonie Wagner Features Editor, Abu Dhabi
“Right now, it’s all about chocolate desserts. The richer, the better. I keep going back to Novikov and LPM because they just get it right every time. That perfect balance of indulgent without being too much.”
Madie Murphy Deputy Editor
“Chebab from Tuk Tuk food truck in Al Barsha. Cream cheese and honey in a pancake. Don’t sleep on it.”
WHAT’S ON POV… THIS MONTH
Obviously, Team What’s On are currently living the dream through their day jobs, but what would they hope to be doing if life had taken a different turn work-wise?
Afootball presenter
Somethinginthe artworld…
A football presenter for sure. Sitting around watching and talking about football all day and night would be my idea of heaven. I’d like to think my talking game is much better than my playing game…
Thomas Woodgate Group Content Director
Definitely in the FBI
I’m basically an investigator at heart. Growing up, my dad literally nicknamed me “CNN” because I was always asking questions, digging into everything and needing to know the full story. It’s very much a “don’t worry, Sammi will find out for us” type of energy.
Sammi Barnard Contributing Reporter
The
F1 social mediaperson
Being the annoying F1 social media person chasing the drivers around the paddock for videos. The dream.
Aarti Saundalkar Arts and Culture Features Editor
Something simple
Something in the art world, yes, but not the one with the paintbrush; I’d be the one spotting great artwork, helping bring pieces together, and giving people a reason to actually stop and look. Basically, mooching around galleries and calling it work.
Jumira Hancock Senior Online Reporter
Performing inmusicals
I’d love to be performing in musicals on the West End. I can’t sing or dance, though, so maybe I’d be the tree in the background.
Madie Murphy Deputy Editor
I’d want to be dancing through the streets of Cuba. Or I’d be on a remote island, barefoot, teaching hula lessons to kids and curious travellers who wandered in. Something simple, a little joyful, and completely removed from emails and deadlines.
Leonie Wagner Features Editor, Abu Dhabi
Openinga restaurant
My husband and I have often talked about opening a restaurant, so I’d like to hope I’d be doing that. Somewhere cosy, by the sea, with incredible sunset views.
Alice Holtham-Pargin
Contributing Editor
Supporting local businesses is easy when your community looks like this...
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
You hear a lot about ‘the American dream’. The idea that, with a bit of talent, some hard work, and the glint of a sparkling idea in your eye, you can completely change your circumstances. Build a business empire, turn your wildest whims into concrete reality. In 2026, this feels more like a UAE dream than anything else. No other country is doing more to support entrepreneurs, remove bureaucratic barriers to success, reward effort and encourage enterprise. Dreamers, especially those who dream big, are being actively headhunted to come and make a life here. It’s a country filled with stories of bootstrap business leaders and homegrown magnates. A place of inspiring spires and creative fires, where impossible is a dirty word.
It’s for these reasons - and many more - that the UAE is recognised as one of the most start-up friendly innovation hubs anywhere in the world. And in the midst of challenging circumstances, those businesses need our support. Community spirit is a powerful thing here, and nowhere does it come alive with more palpable passion than in times of crisis. Our purpose in this article is to share some of our favourite local businesses with you, ‘homegrown heroes of the hustle’ that are proudly flying the UAE flag, so that you can support them should you so choose. There are, of course, more examples of these locally based legends than we have space for on the pages, so the precise names are not as important as the fact we all choose to support local.
3fils
An, at first glance, unassuming eatery along the waters of Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, 3Fils was one of the first homegrown Dubai restaurants to really capture the awe of respected international good food guides. It began life as a chef Akmal Anuar project – and continues to serve an incredible range of innovative, modern Asian dishes with ovation-courting sidesteps (see: triple-cooked chips, charcoal, and mean leaf). The best news is for capital-based 3fils super fans? Abu Dhabi now has its very own outlet in The Abu Dhabi Edition. @3.fils
Pickl
Restaurants
Girl
What started with the impassioned rumblings of a frequently sold-out supper club is now a full tropical cyclone of electric Centroamericano flavour-craft. Girl and the Goose is the bricks-and-mortar manifestation of self-taught chef, Gabriela Chamorro – an edible Ted Talk on the finer points of Central American cuisine. It managed to secure an entry into MENA’s 50 Best listing within the first year of operations and includes such palate-top savour safaris as short-rib clay pots, ceviches, steak, and lobster gnocchi. You’ll find it in the Anantara Downtown Hotel, Business Bay. @girl.and.the.goose
This brand might not have kicked off the current Dubai burger-naissance, but it certainly lit the fire that’s under it. A combo of consistent classics, red-hot special menu items, legendary sauce, and masterful marketing strategies created a stable platform to take the homegrown brand global. The secret beef blend in the smash chuck is a knock-out. Add that to the eponymous pickles and potato bun, and it’s easy to see why Pickl will always be a contender for the UAE burger crown.
@pickl.mena
and the Goose
3fils
Pickl
Girl and the Goose
Chef Gabriela Chamorro
Lilo Molino
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with smashing an aldesko Taqado in your lunch break, but if your Mexican fancy is for something a little more authentic, complex and filled with farm-to-table nutritional charm, Chef Shaw Lash’s Lilo Molino is the answer. No sombreros, no gimmicks, this Alserkal cafe and tortilleria assembles a fiery cast of Central American flavour profiles –tamales, tostadas, tacos, tortas, salads and pescadillas. There’s even a Mexican deli where you can pick up niche ingredients for taco nights su casa.
@lilamolino
Jun’s
We’d argue homegrown, Downtown Dubai, multi-award-winning restaurant, Jun’s is very much an authentic representation of the UAE. Not because it serves Emirati cuisine, it doesn’t in any traditional sense, but because its holistic offering is such an amalgam of international influences and styles, it captures the essence of this, our cosmopolitan country that so thrives on diversity. The man behind the menu is Chef Kelvin Cheung, a proud ambassador of thirdculture cooking who infuses his dishes with personality, skillfully intertwining nostalgia, innovation, and stories from his childhood, to create culinary masterpieces. For a real gastronomic galavant across the menu, opt for the tasting ensembles. junsdubai.com
Bait Maryam
Fusion Ceviche
Another supper club to MENA 50 Best restaurant phenomenon, Fusion Ceviche is an authentic Peruvian eatery in JLT. It’s a raucous carnival of sublime Latin flavour, with special attention paid – as the name hints – to citrus-cured fish dishes. The beautiful mind behind this restaurant is Penelope Diaz, a self-taught chef whose journey to Dubai restaurateur began with a circle-of-trust supper club out of her apartment.
@fusioncevichedxb
Bait Maryam’s chef-owner Salam Dakkak often says that she wants people to treat her restaurant like a family home (which is where the Bib Gourmand eatery derives its name). The irony is, of course, if families had this sort of cooking at home, they’d never eat out. It’s a JLT masterclass of Middle Eastern cuisine with ancient recipes faithfully retold and remastered for the soul-food-seeking palate. And the family has now grown, with the addition of Chef Salam’s latest fine-dining foray, Sufret Maryam. @bait.maryam
Marmellata
This low-fi Mina Zayed eatery was brought to life by father-son duo, Raj and Sebastian Dagstani. The achingly cool, endearingly cosy restaurant hosts guests at a scant collection of indoor tables alongside several more on the outdoor patio. That level of intimacy is manifest on their menu too, which has evolved to an apex line of pizzas and a selection of focaccia. Marmellata really shines in the topping department, many of their gourmet scatters have been given a local touch with mushrooms plucked from a UAE desert farm and figs from Liwa. @marmellatalove
Lilo Molino
Bait Maryam
Kinoya
If you’re looking for UAE expat success stories, you should probably start here. In the nine short years between 2017 and now, chef Neha Mishra has taken her enterprise from an underground supper club (A Story of Food) to a hot ticket Japanese restaurant delivering best-in-city ramen – Kinoya, found in Dubai locale: The Greens; and onto international expansion with a 20-seater eatery in the world’s most iconic food hall, Harrods of London. In the last few months, she’s opened (in partnership with Panchali Mahendra) the highly regarded hand-roll sushi restaurant, Tezukuri. @kinoya.ae
Mamafri
The much-loved Jumeirah-born, Asian fusion restaurant proved so popular that expansion plans included a border-crossing, with a capital-based cousin in Sheikha Fatima Park. On the menu, diners can fill their bellies with dishes like brioche buns with crispy fried chicken and sambal sauce, Japanese ramen, Malaysian shrimp curry, and kimchi fried rice. @lovemamafri
Bu Qtair
This Dubai Fishing Harbour seafood stunner represents the evolution of an old-school icon. What was once a low-key polystyrene plate and patio furniture fit-out now has a full permanent address in one of Dubai’s most popular seafront leisure districts. Don’t be fooled by the covers that they’ve got, it’s still Qtair from the block – serving up richly marinated fish and prawns by weight, and proudly providing textbook Middle Eastern hospitality. It’s a national treasure. buqtairrestaurant.com
Al Ustad Special Kabab
If you’re not willing to take our word for it (odd choice of reading material but you do you), the fact this local legend has been around (just) longer than What’s On (since 1978) and that it counts royals and international A-listers (many of whom are plastered pictorially across the venue) amongst its devoted patrons, should help to persuade you of its worthiness for carrying ‘Special’ as its middle name. It represents incredible value, delivers outstanding meaty feasts, it’s consistent and a saj-wrapped, nostalgia-steeped, delicious dose of local history.
@ostadi_1978
Three Bros
This latest concept from one of Dubai’s best-respected dish-designing dynasties –the Orfali brothers – is a bon continuation of their mantra on allowing the symphony of simplicity to hit the high notes on their menu. Three Bros is the younger, more accessible sibling (and neighbour) to the highly decorated Orfali Bros, and presents an ensemble of internationally-inspired small plates alongside more substantial dishes, all with a little soupçon of Syrian razzledazzle. The roster includes what we’d argue is the best burger in Dubai (the OB cheeseburger), ‘pidza’ (not pizza), the OBimported headliner – shish barak a la gyoza, top tapas tier gambas, and a pon con tomate that is far more than the sum of its parts.
@threebros_kitchen
The new burger joint from the culinary creatives behind Rare, Hella did not come to town to flip ungratifying patties. A relative unknown to most at the time, they turned up at the Dubai Burger Championships 2026 this January and took home the best homegrown title, taking down huge local names in the melee of the bun fight. Their signature smash is a roundhouse kick of purist burger excellence straight to the olfactory bits, and whilst the operation is limited to delivery (in certain areas) and the occasional pop-up, you can expect big things from this brand in the future. Hella big things.
@hella.gd
Mamafri
Kinoya
Three Bros
Fashion & Beauty
Chic Le Frique
Founded by marvellously modish entrepreneur Sara Rahbari, Chic Le Frique is perhaps best-known for its must-have linen two-piece sets that just scream ‘sartorial summer’. From humble roots in the region, Chic Le Frique is now making international waves, although the great news for customers here is that, despite the meteoric expansion, Dubai addresses can still benefit from same-day delivery. @chiclefrique_official
CTZN Cosmetics
For unapologetically cool UAE-born cosmetic brands, look no further than CTZN. It comes from the fiery firmament of the Khan sisters (Aleena, Aleezeh and Naseeha) who launched the brand with a deliberate focus on inclusivity. The products are designed to work across skin tones, cultures and identities rather than catering to one narrow idea of beauty.
@ctzncosmetics
SWTZ
On-trend, female-founded athleisure empire SWTZ was born right here –under the UAE sun. Their product range stretches with Pilateslevel flexibility, from sassy beachwear and accessories to Hyrox fits and loungeappropriate hoodies. Hitting ‘follow’ on their social media channels gives you an insight into the sense of fun that runs casual Ultras through the DNA of the brand.
@swtzofficial
SMPL SKIN
A strong shout for anyone who likes their skincare to do exactly what it says on the bottle. SMPL SKIN is all about paredback, performance-led formulas that skip the fluff in favour of hydration, protection and everyday usability. Clean, direct and very in tune with the region’s appetite for streamlined routines that still deliver.
@simpl.skin
LC
Now a firm household (and gym floor) name, LC is the top-tier athleisure brand that deliberately sets out to provide pieces to fit a more inclusive range of shapes and sizes. Born from the inspired mind of Lyndsay Doran, the catalogue of garments prioritises functionality for fitness without compromising on fashionable form, with classic sets of gym shorts and leggings that can be paired with sports bras in neutral and signature colours. More recent additions include seasonal collections, menswear and childrenswear.
@lcofficial
The Giving Movement
The phenomenal success of The Giving Movement is an easy thing to understand, and even easier to cheer. The streetwear label launched in April 2020, and in the short space between now and then has managed to amass a prolific collection of instantly iconic apparel, with its signature oversized Tees becoming part of the national streetwear fabric. The Giving Movement also honours its name – with donations of Dhs15 made to charity for every item sold. There are trendy threads for ladies, gents and children, all of which are made from sustainable, locallysourced materials.
@thegivingmovement
Nuami Collective
Taking the viral coral tote bag to the next level, Huda Al Nuaimi is a luxury print and product design maestro. Nuami does more than bags, though. From their online store, shoppers can choose from a gorgeous range of intricately designed fabrics, kaftans, summer dresses and iPhone covers. Al Nuaimi’s eye for high style has helped her secure international brand collaborations with names such as Kiko Milano, Waitrose, Lancome, Piaget and Gio Bressana.
@nuaimi_collective
Krump
The ultimate UAE stretch class flex, Krump was conceived by Dubai-based Pilates professional, Freja Rampe. Their accessory line was specifically designed with the form and fun of your workout in mind. The Krump collection includes invariably chic wearable weights, grip socks, band straps and suede mats, as colourful companions for your next mat or reformer workout.
@krump.ae
Suited and Booted
And finally one for dapper chaps and discerning, ahem, geezers (primarily, they do also offer women’s suits).
Suited and Booted is a British-owned, bespoke tailors with locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They have a huge collection of fabrics, with design options to cater for casualwear, office fits, weddings, and secret agent missions in foreign casinos (tuxedos).
Beyond the tailored two-pieces, snazzy jackets and sophisticated slacks, they also offer relaxed shirts, chinos and even swimwear at their Al Quoz store and studio.
@suitedbooteddubai
CRANK
Health & Wellness
Longevity Wellness Hub
Longevity Wellness Hub is one of the more distinctive homegrown names in the UAE’s evolving wellness scene. The concept aims to honour its ‘longevity’ promise through a calibrated ensemble of diagnostic and healing practices that focus on performance, recovery and biohacking. The hub’s impressive high-tech facilities enable hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cold-water immersion, infrared sauna, red light therapy and Lagree-based training.
@longevity.wellness.hub
Bodytree
Founded in Abu Dhabi in 2007, the Al Ashkar Street studio has established itself as one of the capital’s longest-running wellness spaces, with a canopy of expertled classes across yoga, Pilates, functional training, dance and holistic therapies all under one roof. The studio also offers masterclasses in areas such as nutrition, breathwork, massage and Reiki. @bodytreestudio
The Hundred Wellness Centre
Founded by Emirati entrepreneur Asma Hilal Lootah, The Hundred began with Pilates and has evolved into a broader wellness destination offering classes that dial into movement, holistic therapies and nutrition all within the suitably Zen surrounds and lush botanical overtures. @thehundredwellness
Reform Athletica
Reform Athletica in Jumeirah 1 brought a polished, design-conscious boutique
fitness concept to Dubai, inspired by the studio cultures of New York, London and LA. It now sits firmly in the city’s luxury wellness conversation, with a schedule line-up that includes Megaformer Pilates, TRX and yoga.
@reformathletica
Contrast Wellness
Contrast is one of the city’s best-loved hubs for recovery-led wellness. Cofounded by Layla Kardan and Hamdan Al-Khafaji, the concept centres on sauna, ice bath and other longevityfocused therapies, offering a more contemporary route to feeling good.
@contrastwellness
HWH Studio
HWH Studio leans into a more elevated vision of wellness, with yoga, Pilates and sound-led experiences. It is one of the newer names in the community, but has built an identity around expertly-conceived classes.
@hwhstudiodubai
Founded in 2017 as a UAE-born boutique concept focused on indoor cycling and strength-based classes. Its sessions have become something of a local institution, and they now have two outposts in Dubai (the original Alserkal location and Town Square), as well as an Abu Dhabi location in Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Park.
@crank.uae
Bikeera Cycle Club
Alongside its retail arm, the homegrown brand runs regular group rides and endurance sessions, bringing together committed cyclists and more casual riders who are in it as much for the camaraderie as the kilometres. Their sessions take place at Kite Beach, Al Qudra and beyond.
@bikeera.uae
Dubai Creek Striders
Founded in 1995, Dubai Creek Striders is one of the city’s longest-running organised run clubs and was later formally registered as a nonprofit social club in Dubai. It has decades of credibility and still feels deeply rooted in the city’s running culture.
@dubaicreekstriders
Jumeirah Johns
A relative newcomer to the Dubai fitness scene, Jumeirah Johns Running Club is a vibe tribe for all levels and split paces. They offer at least three free weekly runs across several locations, including Dubai Marina and Kite Beach.
@jumeirahjohnsrunningclub
Yoga Ashram
Found in the Jumeirah Bay X3 building, they major in authentic yoga styles, meditation, breathwork, prenatal classes, teacher training and Pilates in a community-first setting.
@yogaashramuae
Bikeera Cycle Club
food
Mazaraa Farm Shop
Mazaraa in Abu Dhabi is widely described as the UAE’s first certified organic farm, with fresh produce, eggs, honey and a proper farm-shop feel that makes it as much a local food destination as a producer. It brings a wholesome, field-to-shelf vibe to any midweek fridge stocking mission.
@mazaraashop
House of Habanero
Haute-sauce heat-seekers, this one’s for you. House of Habanero launched in Dubai as a specialist chilli concept and has quickly grown into a one-stop shop for hot sauces, spice blends, condiments and all things fiery. It has the energy of a passion project turned proper cult retail destination, which is usually where the best food brands begin. They now have a bricks-and-mortar store in Alserkal Avenue where you can pit your palate against a rapidly escalating scale of Scoville scorch.
@houseofhabanero.ae
Below Farm
Desert oases can take many forms, not least because there’s so mushroom for diversity. Dad jokes firmly out of the system now. Abu Dhabi’s Below Farm grows premium specialty mushrooms locally, including oyster, king oyster, shiitake and lion’s mane, using controlled-environment farming and a sustainability-minded approach that makes clever use of regional waste biomass. Fresh, futuristic and very Abu Dhabi. @belowfarm
Curious Elephant
A Dubai-born pantry hero bringing fiery Far Eastern flavours into home kitchens across the UAE. Curious Elephant started with handcrafted Asian chilli sauces sold on a stall at the Ripe market, the brand has since built out a loyal following for its big flavours, thoughtful recipes and richly authentic taste. The range now includes dumplings and products that can be purchased online through the website, Deliveroo, Instashop, Kibsons, Waitrose, Spinney’s and more. @curious.elephant
FIX Dessert Chocolatier
Dibba Bay Oysters
One of the UAE’s most impressive local produce stories. Dibba Bay grows gourmet oysters in the waters of Fujairah and is widely described as the first and only gourmet oyster farm in the Middle East. They also now have their own restaurant (JBR) which offers special sundowner deals with bargain bivalve pricing from Dhs8 per shuck.
@dibbabay
Tapenaz
In the pantheon of gourmet condiments, tapenade sits alone. This olive-based spread is an umami tsunami, that upcycles almost any cracker, salad, rustic tartine, fish or grazing board. And if you’re looking for a UAE-made version of this pantry-essential flavour-enhancer, look no further than Tapenaz. This product gives the classic tapenade a more modern, giftable spin with olive-based spreads that provide the kind of polished, small-batch presentation that screams ‘picnic hamper me now’. @tapenaz_by_naz
House of Pops
What began with a bike, a farmers’ market and a handful of natural ice pops in Dubai has become one of the UAE’s most craved better-for-you treat brands. House of Pops makes plant-based, natural frozen pops with a clean-label, feel-good positioning, and still feels homegrown despite its expansion. @houseofpops.ae
The brand that turned ‘Dubai chocolate’ into a full-blown global obsession. FIX began life in Dubai and built its name on thick, glossy bars stuffed with pistachio, kunafa, brownies and other maximalist fillings that transcend the idea of the traditional chocolate bar and enter a Wonka-esque wonderland of dessert, souvenir and social-media ASMR event. Viral, yes, but also genuinely inventive. @fixdessertchocolatier
Mazaraa Farm Shop
Dibba Bay Oysters
House of Habanero
House of Pops
People cope in different ways. Some sweat it out, some sit still and breathe through it, others head straight for the fridge. And then there are those who make a beeline for the bar. We’re not here to rank coping mechanisms, but there is something uniquely restorative about a really good city bar: inventive cocktails, a room that buzzes, music that’s on-point, and a crowd that’s up for it.
Right now, the UAE’s bar scene is less “on the up” and more full-blown bloom. There’s serious talent
The mix masters, must-visits and can’t-miss pours shaping the UAE’s drinks scene
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
behind the stick – award-winning bartenders who treat drinks like the artistic craft that it is – and they’re helping to shape a new beverage-forward culture. Over the next few pages, we tap into their go-to spots, as well as our editor picks. There’s also a quietly booming non-alcoholic scene for those skipping the hard stuff. From blink-and-you-miss-it speakeasies to polished restaurant bars and gloriously scruffy pubs, the UAE is mixing, shaking and stirring with intent. Consider this your hit list…
THE LEGENDS IN DUBAI
Jetty Lounge
Set within One&Only Royal Mirage, Jetty Lounge has long been a Dubai favourite, an oceanside escape where city dwellers swap skyline views for the soft glow of lantern-lit pathways and the gentle lapping of waves. It’s all low-slung sofas, lantern glow and horizon-gazing, with a crowd that arrives for sundowners, and stay well past dark. Signature cocktails lean into tropical flavours, perfect for sipping as the sun dips. A crisp, citrusy Jetty Cooler might be your first pick, or a spiced twist on a classic G&T. Mezze platters arrive in leisurely fashion, and the service, unhurried but always polished.
One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina. Tel: (0)4 315 2412. oneandonlyresorts.com
The Duck Hook
For a country club-style experience, The Duck Hook provides a fun retreat at the Dubai Hills Golf Club. Featuring oak floors and whimsical duck-themed artwork, the atmosphere is relaxed – and particularly busy with residents right now. The menu showcases hearty British gastropub classics, with standout dishes like duck scotch egg, duck confit, and steak and ale pie. The ‘tipples and tinctures’ menu sports lagers from Dhs20, glasses of wine from Dhs40, plus a range of cocktails and shooters. It’s a catch-all kind of pub. Being pet-friendly is an added bonus.
Consider yourself lucky if you can gain entry to this cocktail bunker. Access is quietly rationed – dinner guests get first dibs, but it can be booked privately –adding to the sense that you’ve stumbled into something intentionally small. Inside, it’s all vinyl crackle, low light and exacting detail, where martini cocktails are built behind a tiny bar counter top, by a very discreet bartender. Boy, the tales they could tell... Opera Grand, Ground Floor, Downtown Dubai. Tel: (058) 141 9696. @tezukuridubai
Salmon Guru
Imported from Madrid, Salmon Guru, housed within The Opus by Omniyat in Business Bay, leans gleefully into excess. Neon, colour, and a touch of madness set the tone, while drinks arrive dressed to impress and engineered to deliver. There’s structure behind the spectacle, though, with a drinks menu that plays across flavour profiles rather than categories. Hot tip for those in the know: don’t leave without trying the Gilda. These intensely flavorful skewers of anchovy, olive, and pickled pepper are a salty, umami-packed homage to Spanish tapas tradition, and absolutely divine with a crisp, citrus-forward cocktail.
The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay. Tel: (0)52 814 9537. @salmongurudubai
Blind Tiger
Hidden deep within the marble-veined corridors of Jumeirah Al Naseem, Blind Tiger strikes a neat balance between speakeasy intrigue and full-throttle live music energy. Fresh from its nod on the The World’s 50 Best Bars Discovery list, it vibes with confidence. The room leans theatrical, mirrored ceilings, chinoiserie flourishes, a crowd that loosens as the night deepens, especially once Katty Gold and her slick Cruise Band take hold. Cocktails are the headline, of course: playful and polished.
Blind Tiger, Jumeirah Al Naseem.
Tel: (800) 323 232, @blindtigerdxb
1920
Perched high above the city on the 52nd floor of ICD Brookfield Place, 1920 channels old-school New York glamour with a sultry, speakeasy twist. Behind a red velvet curtain lies an Art Deco gem. Think plush booths, skyline views, and a live jazz band setting the tone. The cocktail list leans into the era – classic builds, properly made – but it’s the Old Fashioneds and Negronis that feel most at home here. ICD Brookfield Place. Tel: (0)4 498 1920. @1920dubai
GABA
By day, GABA is all calm restraint as a serene tea lounge; by night, it slips into something far more interesting. Tucked along Dubai Marina, it channels the quiet confidence of Tokyo’s hidden bars – think precise, spirit-forward cocktails and a sake and shochu list that rewards curiosity –with just enough Bangkok buzz to keep things lively. It’s still slightly under the radar, but beloved by those in the know. Marina Promenade, Dubai Marina, Tel: (0)55 397 6973. @gaba.dubai
Mimi Kakushi
Since opening, Mimi Kakushi has built a reputation on style and substance, but increasingly, it’s the bar that steals the show. With a menu inspired by jazz-era Japan and a format that riffs on vinyl culture, it feels both playful and considered. Recognition from the The World’s 50 Best Bars list only confirms what regulars already know: this is a bar worth its weight in margarita salt – and the margaritas, for what it’s worth, are genuinely excellent. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. Tel: (0)4 379 4811. @mimikakushi
Blind Tiger
Honeycomb Hi-Fi
Honeycomb Hi-Fi is the city’s cool-crowd hangout, where audiophile vibes meet contemporary Japanese dining, all low-lit and sultry. Guests enter through a teeny vinyl records shop, before stepping into the main venue. Wooden panels, mid-century seating, and Ojas speakers create a sleek, immersive atmosphere, while the central bar pulses with theatrical mixology and high-ball cocktails that put hairs on your chest. Honeycomb HiFi feels effortlessly in-the-know, even if most have heard of it by now.
Pullman Dubai Downtown, Business Bay.
Tel: (0)4 412 6666. honeycombhifi.com
Zuma
Regularly perched at the top of The World’s 50 Best Bars rankings in the region, Zuma Dubai proves it’s far more than just a dining heavyweight. Up on the top floor of its DIFC address, the bar has a life, and following, of its own. Cocktails take their cues from Japan without feeling formulaic, while the spirits list reads like a well-curated obsession. In short: go now while the city is quieter as you’re (finally) more likely to find some space at the bar.
Podium Level, Gate Village, DIFC. Tel: (0)4 425 5660. @zumadubai
La Petite Maison Dubai
Few places have the staying power of La Petite Maison Dubai. Located in DIFC, its bar is a masterclass in effortless buzz, always full, never frantic. The crowd leans polished, the mood reliably upbeat, and the ritual of a Tomatini remains one of the city’s small pleasures. It’s familiar (and other bartenders around town clearly love it), but in a city that moves this fast and unpredictable, familiarity feels divine. Gate Village 8, DIFC. Tel: (0)4 439 0505. @lpmdubai
Fibber Magee’s
An institution since 1996, Fibber Magee’s is proof that not everything needs reinvention. It’s snug and noisy – an Irish pub through and through. It may not be the slickest spot in town, but that’s why people love it. Sometimes, you just want a proper pint poured without theatre, and this is one of the originals. Saeed Tower 1, Sheikh Zayed Road. Tel: (0)4 332 2400. @fibbermageesdxb
THE PROS’ PICKS
Where Dubai’s bartenders and taste-makers drink off-duty
Zuka Khuntsaria
Head Bartender at Mayabay
“There are plenty of great bars in Dubai, but my ultimate favourite has to be Fibber Magee’s. It’s affordable and unpretentious, with brilliant live music and genuinely good food. It probably pours the best Guinness in town. What I love most is that it feels like what a bar used to be: a place for socialising and having fun. You almost forget you’re in Dubai. Nobody judges you, and it transports you to those movie scenes where friends are simply hanging out over a pint of Guinness and having real conversations.”
Claudiu Mnerau
Head Bartender at Baoli
“My go-to bar in Dubai is La Petite Maison (LPM). Hands down, it serves some of the best drinks in the city. The atmosphere is great and the team behind the bar is fantastic. You can never go wrong with a Tomatini or a La Piscine from the signature cocktail menu, although every now and then I’ll try something different depending on the mood. Either way, you’re in safe hands and the drinks are consistently excellent.”
Jenna Ba
World Class UAE
Lead at Diageo “That’s a hard question! It really depends on the time and my mood. I love having a super-cold 5:1 Tanqueray No.10 Gin Martini at Avli by tashas; they always give me extra olives, and they’re the
best in town. A Rika Tonic at Zuma is also a safe bet for a great night out. But I’m equally fond of the Jass Lounge. It’s such a special spot. I’m almost reluctant to say it, because it’s so small and it’s just so good.”
Zahra Erfanian Mixologist, Carbone
“I like La Petite Maison (LPM) for its effortless vibe. You can actually have a conversation, the music is perfectly balanced, and the drinks are consistently excellent. I’d also highly recommend LITT at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab; it’s a friendly, high-energy spot where the bartenders are as good as the drinks. Nobu by the Beach is always a fun one, too, with cool atmosphere, a great DJ, and some genuinely creative cocktails designed to pair with the sushi.”
Sharfin Akter Auni
Head Bartender, Nobu Dubai
“My personal go-to in Dubai is La Petite Maison Dubai (LPM). I love the team – great drinks, consistently, and delicious food.
Tibor, Brent, Zoli and Asli are all incredibly talented. I always order a tomatine – you simply can’t not.”
THE LEGENDS IN ABU DHABI
Craft by Sidehustle
Abu Dhabi is, frankly, lucky to have landed it first. At Craft by Side Hustle, the UAE’s first licensed brewery, beer is brewed and poured on-site, upending the capital’s long-standing reliance on global tap lists. Inside The Galleria Al Maryah Island, 29 taps run from bright, tropical IPAs to hazy Belgian witbiers and fruit-forward doubles, all developed by brewmaster Mitch Dougherty with a focus on clarity, balance and drinkability. A tight food offering from beloved chef Troy Payne leans into South Louisiana smokehouse flavours, built to match the beers.
Below Rosewood Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island. Tel: (0)2 631 9855. @craft_by_sidehustle
Library Bar
Tucked inside The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Library Bar leans into its literary brief with art-lined wooden walls and design motifs inspired by language and the written word. Low-set lounge chairs and sapphire banquettes set the tone for a quieter, more intimate drinking space. The cocktail programme balances experimental serves with polished classics. A regular roster of guest shifts and an extensive menu position it firmly among Abu Dhabi’s more considered cocktail destinations.
The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @oakroomabudhabi
Buddha-Bar
Beach
Abu Dhabi
At Buddha-Bar Beach, it’s the setting that does the early heavy lifting with bone-white sands, open skies and the Arabian Gulf stretching out beyond. Come sundown, the terrace fills for easy, fruitforward cocktails with an Asian inflection, best taken against a front-row sunset. As the evening shifts, so does the energy. The tempo lifts with DJ-led sets and a crowd that drifts from dinner into drinks. The bar programme covers both polished classics and house signatures. An alfresco spot that’s hard to beat.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. Tel:(0)2 498 8888. @buddhabarbeachabudhabi
McCafferty’s
Big and boisterous, McCafferty’s brings a slice of Donegal Town to Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, and arguably does it better than anyone else in the capital. Inside, it’s all dark wood panelling, snug booths and tucked-away corners that feel lifted straight from a rural pub back in Emerald Isle. The drinks lean classic and generous, best enjoyed alongside live music and a crowd that’s firmly in it for a good time. With sports screenings and a lively terrace, it’s a natural choice for group outings, particularly for pre-drinks before a show at Etihad Arena. Hilton Yas Island. Tel: (058) 598 3623. @mccaffertysyas
Dragon’s Tooth
Hidden behind Dai Pai Dong at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Dragon’s Tooth trades on secrecy (oops sorry!). Accessed via a discreet ‘tea room’ entrance, the compact, Shanghaiinspired speakeasy leans into low lighting, dark woods and an unmistakably 1920s mood. The drinks list is Asian-influenced, with a parallel focus on whisky, while cocktails draw on the mythology of historic empresses. The result is a cocktail menu that is complex and theatrically presented. With space for little more than a few dozen guests, it’s best approached as an intimate, latenight hideaway – great for date nights. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island. Tel: (0)2 813 5520. @rosewoodabudhabi
Dragon’s Tooth
Craft by Sidehustle
Library Bar
THE RISE OF ZERO
How Erika Blazeviciute-Doyle is reshaping the UAE’s drinking culture – one non-alcoholic pour at a time
There was a time – not so long ago – when opting out of alcohol in the UAE meant settling for something saccharine and second-rate. “I could only find low-quality malt beverages and sweet sparkling juices in champagne-style bottles,” recalls Erika Blazeviciute-Doyle, who moved to the UAE in 2019 and was struck by the absence of premium alternatives “like a tonne of bricks.”
That gap, it turns out, was less a niche and more a blind spot. Today, the zero-proof category is not only viable, it’s booming.
Erika’s own journey began earlier, in the UK, where she gave up alcohol in 2015.
“I’ve always been a very sociable person who enjoys hosting and entertaining,” she says. “I was looking for sophisticated, premium non-alcoholic options so I didn’t feel left out.” At the time, those options were few and far between. But the seed was planted.
By 2020, in the midst of a pandemic that upended consumer habits and accelerated e-commerce, she decided to act. “I was convinced there were many more people like me,” she adds. “And
during Covid, I felt like I had nothing to lose.” What began as a digital storefront quickly grew into something more ambitious – an ecosystem supplying hundreds of retailers and over a thousand hospitality venues across the UAE.
If the early days were defined by scarcity, the present moment is characterised by abundance, and credibility. “Global, well-recognised brands in 0.0% are now available,” she notes, citing familiar names like Guinness 0.0, Corona Cero and Tanqueray 0.0. “That really helps with consumer trust.”
But brand recognition is only part of the story. The real shift, she argues, is behavioural. “The consumer mindset is
now fully aligned with why the category exists in the first place – it’s the consumers who are driving the growth.” Health and wellness, once a fleeting trend, has calcified into something more permanent.
“It’s no longer a trend,” she says. “It’s a new way of life.”
Erika Blazeviciute-Doyle
Hospitality, ever attuned to both cultural currents and commercial realities, has followed suit. “They’re actively trying to improve their nonalcoholic offering, not just for customer satisfaction, but because premium nonalcoholic drinks generate more margin than soft drinks.” In other words, the zero-proof movement isn’t just good optics, it’s good business.
The category itself is evolving at pace. Non-alcoholic beers, she notes, are “leading the charge” –accessible, familiar, and increasingly indistinguishable from their fullstrength counterparts. Meanwhile, alcohol-free wines and 0.0% spirits are carving out space on serious menus, particularly in high-end venues where pairing matters.
That shift is evident across the UAE’s dining scene. At Roberto’s and La Petite Maison Dubai, non-alcoholic wine lists now sit alongside their traditional counterparts, while venues like Row on 45 are pushing things further with dedicated zero-proof pairings, often made in-house. Even more casual favourites, such as 3Fils, are part of the conversation.
For Erika, the mission remains both personal and expansive: “We are working tirelessly to make premium non-alcoholic options available everywhere our customers are.” It’s a far cry from the limited shelves of 2015, and a sign that, in the UAE at least, drinking less no longer means settling for less. drinkdrystore.com
Alcohol-free but fun
Thoughtfully prepared mocktails for the sober-curious crowd
Zero-proof drinks used to be an afterthought, cloyingly sweet takes on mojitos and margaritas that nobody actually wanted. Not anymore. A decade of serious zeroproof spirit makers, combined with bartenders who’ve fully embraced the craft, has transformed the category. Here are four places in Dubai doing it properly.
MANAO
Chef Mohamad Orfali’s unlicensed, one-Michelin-star Thai-inspired restaurant is a natural fit for fermentation-forward pairings. Working alongside chef Abhiraj Khatwani, the beverage programme leans into kombucha with real intent: a manosteen and chamomile, and a strawberry with makwen spice are the standouts.
@manao_dubai
TRESIND STUDIO
Himanshu Saini’s three-Michelin-star institution has long set the bar for Indian fine dining, and sommelier Nikhil Surve has built one of the UAE’s most ambitious spirit-free menus to match it. Lactofermented blueberries with kokum and tea; sweetcorn and buckwheat
tea that sounds improbable and tastes revelatory. Everything is made in-house, and it shows.
@tresindstudio
WINDOW
Open barely a month, Window has already become one of Alserkal Avenue’s most talked-about new arrivals – its steaks and burgers pulling serious crowds. And what pairs with a great burger? Thankfully, the team thought ahead: Biere des Amis 0.0% Belgian Blonde is now on the menu, full-bodied and malty enough to hold its own against the kitchen’s heavier plates.
@window.dxb
MIMI KAKUSHI
Manja Stankovic’s zero-proof genso –a refreshing balance of matcha, strawberry, yuzu and coffee – is one of the cleverest drinks in the city. It sits within a broader programme of 0% ABV cocktails, mocktails, and five alcohol-free wines and beers. Consider this the benchmark for how a full non-alcoholic menu should feel.
@mimikakushi
Mimi Kakushi
Manao
Tresind Studio Window
Run towards the roar at these fantastical botanical UAE spectacles
FWORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
or a relatively compact nation, the UAE wears quite the wardrobe of geography.
Contained within its confines, intrepid explorers can roam rolling desert dunes, make for manmade island archipelagos, wander in the shadows of huge futuristic tower clusters, hike the spine of entire mountain chains, thunder down (indoor) ski slopes, comb beaches, make tracks
through ghaf forests and snorkel over vibrant coral reefs. One biome that doesn’t frequently feature on most lists however, is the jungle. But if you listen closely, you can hear its call in certain corners of the country. Places you can go to curl and unfurl within the verdant embrace of calming canopies. These are our favourite jungle-themed experiences in the UAE.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
The Green Planet
Without hesitation, contemplation or doubt – The Green Planet Dubai is the closest single experience in the whole of the UAE to an actual jungle expedition. This rainforest-simulating biosphere is a tower block in fancy floral dress, staged around a gargantuan artificial Amazonian Kapok tree. Visitors can tour the various levels of the humidity and temperaturecontrolled attraction, weaving in and out of the central trunk, finding themselves in sloth-bothering, sugar glider-coddling, face-to-furry-face animal encounters and learning about the plight of this disappearing ecosystem. Fun add-ons include periodic overnight camping trips, JNGL café visits, feeding opportunities and an alfresco adventure playground. City Walk, Al Wasl, daily 10am to 6pm, from Dhs139. @thegreenplanetdubai
Ready Set Go
Rather than go for the obvious, hyper Amazonian realism and living walls of green present in many other entries on this list, Ready Set Go has opted for a cartoonish jungle theme and a triggering absence of commas. But what it lacks in punctuation, it more than makes up for in junior crowd-pleasing, soft-play fun. There are slides and cosy hides, net walks, ziplines, sensory talks, crafting and triking, climbing and dancing, mascot meets and enthralling showtime feats. Al Quoz, Mon to Fri from 10am, Sat and Sun from 9am, from Dhs75. @readysetgodubai
Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts
This Polynesian-inspired hotel can be found within the greater metropolitan area of Dubai Parks and Resorts. They’re currently offering some great staycation rates for the summer, which include access to the neighbouring theme parks. But it’s the botanical credentials that qualify Lapita for this particular round-up, infused – as
it is – with veins of vibrant green, and shade-giving palms. Lying by the pool, with a cheeky tiki mocktail in hand, you could almost convince yourself you’re in Hawaii. Dubai Parks and Resorts, room rates from Dhs326. @lapitahoteldubai
The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi
One of the newest attractions to emerge from the formative crysalis of Abu Dhabi’s Al Qana is The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi. Inside the geodesic glass domes lies a metamorphic menagerie of Pantone colour swatches, butterflies from farflung corners of the globe in all their mesmerising forms. And it’s not just the insects on parade, keen eyes should remain on stalks to spot sloths, humming birds, giant squirrels, whatever bearcats are and a curious species of anteater. The only thing that’s missing is the David Attenborough voiceover.
Al Qana Walk, Mon-Fri 10am to 8pm; Sat-Sun 9am to 8pm, Dhs55; Dhs150 combined with The National Aquarium. @thebutterflygardensuae
The Glass House
Found in the rolling rural expanse of Al Khawaneej, Quranic Park is a
symphonic mix of nature and heritage. The 64-hectare park provides visitors with an experientially immersive insight into the teachings of the Holy Quran. Access to the park is free, though we’d recommend paying the very reasonable Dhs5 ticket price to enter The Glass House (a biodome featuring the 51 plant species mentioned in the Quran), and the Cave of Miracles.
Al Khawaneej, Sat to Thurs 8am to 10pm, Fri 3pm to 10pm, Dhs5 per person to visit Cave of Miracles and The Glasshouse. dm.gov.ae
Anantara Mina Ras
Al Khaimah
Resort
This is admittedly a bit of a stretch. It’s often likened to a Maldivian hotel solely on account of its overwater villas, so as comparisons go, we’re on established ground. The 174-key resort property’s main leisure highlights include a spa, an expansive outdoor swimming pool complex complete with sunken bar, watersports and padel tennis courts. But the real jungle joy is found in a kayak tour of the mangroves (from Dhs100).
Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah, pool villas from Dhs4,590 anantara.com
Sharjah Safari Park
It’s not the only safari park in the UAE, but it is arguably the most immersive. It’s home to 120 species, including the ‘king of the jungle’ – the African lion. They’ve separated the park into 12 distinct zones, and some of them do incredible work cosplaying as real African topographies –including the Savannah, the Serengeti, and Nkorongoro. It’s the Zanzibar Village that really tempts the mind to stray from its GPS coordinates, though, with faithfully recreated buildings encroached by the untamed wilderness.
Sharjah, priced from Dhs40. @shjsafari
Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts
Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah Resort
The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi
BARS AND RESTAURANTS
Mama Zonia
Pier 7’s answer to the question – what if we just put a botanical garden with a banging Nikkei menu in the middle of Dubai Marina? Known for wild brunches, business lunches and flame-grilled tranches of prime beef. Pier 7, Dubai Marina. @mamazoniadxb
Monkey Bar
Berlin import Monkey Bar has plugged itself into the Dubai scene from a nest on top of a reputation-appropriate monolith of mode – 25hours Hotel. Come for the scintillating Latin menu, the leafy jungle vibes, a glimpse of the future (the Museum of the Future), or the beat parade from its nightly lineup of live DJs. 25hours Hotel, Dubai One Central. @monkeybardubai
Amazonico
Amazonico’s rainforest theme permeates every layer of the venue. But it’s the rooftop terrace that affirms its rare verdant beauty. Whether you’re dropping in with mates for a round of sharing plates, or heading to the roof for alfresco sundowner mixology, you cannot escape the ‘cool’ of the wild.
DIFC Pavilion. @amazonicodubai
The Guild
One of the most wonderful aspects of this ICD Brookfield-based restaurant is that its
modular dining concept includes Potting Shed and Nurserie, an organic bear hug of bio-aesthetic vitality, with dim lights and gourmet brasserie bites, it’s the perfect place to huddle close to friends and lose yourself in a manufactured jungle.
ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC. @theguilddubai
Coya
This intricately designed, Peruvianinspired restaurant has locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Inside, the botanical decor theme continues with plants framing the bar and seating areas. Browse the expertly storied cocktail list for more Amazon-inspired experiences, including a blended beverage that pays homage to a certain spiritual brew. Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort. @coyadubai
Raclette
Located along the desert island dining strip at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Raclette’s interiors paint the story of an art deco jungle, whilst the menu offers its own safari through fine-dining highlights of French cuisine. Their strong weekly promotions pair expertly well with the venue’s talismanic coastline views. Mamsha Al Saadiyat. Abu Dhabi. @racletteuae
The Farm
An oasis of soothing leafy calm and zen coaxing waterways, The Farm is famed for its breakfast as much as its obvious physical beauty, and its core allure goes deeper still. A menu that gracefully
pivots from AM to PM consistently delivering delicious, sustainably-sourced, nutritionally-optimised international fare. Al Barari, Dubai. @thefarm_dubai
SEVA Table
A no-longer-particularly-well-kept-secret, the barefoot-friendly courtyard is scattered with age-gnarled trees, cushions, wooden tables and soft music, creating a relaxed escape from the city. The plant-based menu focuses on wholesome, nourishing dishes, from smoothie bowls to fresh juices and speciality coffees. There are books to browse if you feel like lingering a little longer and wellness classes to help further align your bliss with the backdrop. Jumeirah. @sevaexperience
Treehouse
Up on the 8th floor of Taj Dubai, the openair venue is rooted by a central circular bar, the annular ring revealing the venue’s legacy status. And with its strategically arranged green sleeves, it’s every bit the up high urban hideaway. Taj Dubai, Business Bay. @treehousedubai
Ninive Bab Al Shams
A true, though manmade, desert oasis in the breathtaking dune-hemmed resort of Bab Al Shams, this second Dubai incarnation of Ninive plays to the ‘enchanted garden’ strengths of the original. It’s a sophisticated sundowner spot that offers flavourful fluency in Iranian, Iraqi, Turkish, and Moroccaninfluenced cuisine.
Bab Al Shams. @ninivebabalshams
Amazonico
Mama Zonia
UNDERWATER JUNGLES AND WILD WETLANDS
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
This submarinal jungle offers completely free-of-charge views of its main tank to Dubai Mall visitors, but what more does a trip inside offer you? Your underwater safari begins with a walk through a tunnel that bores through the statement tank, allowing new perspectives and proximity to the curious creatures behind the glass. The basic package also entitles you to a little BTS tour of the hatchery, up close views of penguins, a truly colossal ‘King Croc’, otters, rays, tropical birds, reptiles, bats and an unwieldy biomass more. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Sun to Thurs 10am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 12am, from Dhs178. @dubaiaquarium
Jubail Mangrove Park
Sandwiched between two of Abu Dhabi’s most famous island idylls, Yas and Saadiyat, sits the humble and meek, but oh-so deep, Jubail Island. Out on a quiet outcrop of the still largely undeveloped isle, you’ll find Jubail Mangrove Park. It features a meandering 2.3km boardwalk that quite literally draws you right into nature. And there are plenty of ways to explore the capital’s serene green Everglades including boardwalk meditation sessions ranger-led, guided tours (from Dhs50), kayaking (from Dhs110), and e-dragon boat excursions. Jubail Island, 7am to 9pm. jubailisland.ae
The Lost Chambers Aquarium
Grab Poseidon by the beard and explore an underwater world inspired by the legend of Atlantis at this atmospheric aquarium. Saunter through kaleidoscopic tunnels and shadowy chambers filled with sharks, rays and thousands of marine creatures, all set among ancient ruins and glowing displays.
Atlantis The Palm, daily 11am to 8pm, Dhs85. aquaventureworld.com
Snoopy Island
Snoopy Island is one of Fujairah’s bestloved landmarks and is named after the famous dog, the cartoon, not the rapper, which the island is said to resemble. It’s a leisure pursuit pearl offering some of the best ‘sight-seaing’ in the UAE. The natural jungle of reefs provides a home for a kaleidoscopic clique of fishy friends, visiting turtles, and even the odd white-tip reef shark. On a day trip to Snoopy Island, the whole family can mask up for a team snorkel, or stay above the surface for an afternoon of paddle boarding or kayaking
– the gear for all of which can be rented from the shore. Those looking to make a weekend of it can check-in to Sandy Beach Hotel, the legendary Fujairah resort that sits smack bang in front of Snoopy Island. sandybeach.ae
Ras Al Khor
This vibrant protected wetland is located just a few minutes’ drive from Business Bay and contains within its green embrace 67 different species of bird. Its most famous resident is, of course, perennial Barbiecore ambassadors, the flamingos. The reserve holds three viewing hides dotted around the perimeter of the sanctuary. Best of all, the sanctuary is completely free to enter.
Ras Al Khor, daily 7.30am to 5.30pm, free. dm.gov.ae
The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s The National Aquarium is the largest aquatic vivarium in the Middle East. It’s home to 46,000 creatures spread across 10 experiential zones. It provides live encounters, aims to educate visitors on ecology and performs noble ‘rehabilitation and release’ conservation work for local wildlife. Interior highlights include the region’s longest underwater tunnel experience, tank-top glass-bottom boat tours, a National Geographic exhibit, and sharks, lots of sharks.
Al Qana, 10am to 10pm, Dhs110, under 3s free. @thenationalaq
Ras Al Khor
Snoopy Island
The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
LADIES
The Abu Dhabi locations to be merry at with the girls
WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER
Ladies’ night is not just about drinks deals and playlists. It is about permission. Permission to exhale, to laugh too loudly, to dance badly, to talk honestly. It is a pause button on deadlines, expectations and the carried mental load. Sometimes it is deep chats over coffee.
Sometimes it is dancing like you are Beyoncé’s backup dancer and owning every second of it. Whatever shape it takes, ladies’ night matters. And in Abu Dhabi, the city understands the assignment.
Here are some of the best ladies’ nights to bookmark right now.
W Lounge Abu Dhabi
Sipz and Glam is the kind of ladies’ night that understands rhythm. The DJ reads the room perfectly, knowing when to slow things down and when to push the tempo, so no two Fridays ever feel the same. It is glamorous, chic and quietly sexy, the sort of night that starts with sipping and ends with dancing. From the moment you arrive the lounge slips into full unwind mode with low lighting, crafted cocktails and a soundtrack that builds as the night goes on. Ladies can enjoy unlimited selected beverages for Dhs85 after purchasing one drink from the special menu, with Japanese-inspired bites like Norigami sushi tacos and yuzu cucumber rolls from Dhs40.
Location: W Lounge, W Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Time: Every Friday, 9pm onwards
Cost: Dhs85 per person for unlimited selected beverages with one special menu drink purchase. Food from Dhs40 Contact: (02) 656 0000
Ladies’ Coffee Mornings, Viya Golf Performance Institute
Not every ladies’ night happens after dark. This feel-good morning series is about confidence, fresh air and learning something new, with golf coaching paired with coffee and easy conversation.
Location: Viya Golf Performance Institute, Yas Acres
Time: Weekly morning sessions
Cost: Dhs495 for four sessions
Contact: (02) 208 7222
Crafty Fox, Yas Links Abu Dhabi
Midweek never looked this good. Vixen Soirée is relaxed, social and ideal for long catch-ups over drinks and discounted comfort food.
Location: Crafty Fox, Yas Links Abu Dhabi
Time: Tuesdays, 5pm to 9pm
Cost: Complementary selected drinks and 50% off selected menu items
Contact: (02) 404 3081
Siddharta Lounge
Grown, sexy and effortlessly stylish, this rooftop lounge comes with marina views and a polished crowd. Siddharta Lounge is ideal for dressing up, ordering another round and settling into the night with your girls. Ladies’ Night runs from 7pm to 11pm with unlimited selected beverages while you dine, or opt for unlimited bevvies from 10pm ‘til late for Dhs99 if you’re in it for the long haul.
Location: Siddharta Lounge, Yas Bay
Time: Every Thursday, 7pm to 11pm
Cost: Dhs99
Contact: (050) 601 1194
W Lounge Abu Dhabi
Ladies’ Coffee Mornings
Siddharta Lounge
W Lounge Abu Dhabi
Bla Bla Bar, Yas Island
There’s something about Bla Bla Bar that pulls you in before you even plan on staying. This is a night where you lose track of time and possibly your voice. Loud music, high energy and free-flow house drinks make it a guaranteed dance floor situation. The DJ mixes hip hop, RnB, afrobeats and amapiano so smoothly your shoulders can’t help but react.
It is wholesome, fun and completely unforced, where the music and the mood follows naturally. House drinks are free for ladies, which only adds to the sense that this is one of Abu Dhabi’s quietly top-tier nights out.
Location: Bla Bla Bar, Yas Island
Time: Thursdays, 8pm to 11pm
Contact: 02 639 9078
Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa
Start slow, end loud. This Friday affair moves seamlessly from a chilled Ladies’ Day into a buzzing Ladies’ Night, making it an all-day beach-to-bar plan.
Location: Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa
Time: Fridays. Ladies’ Day 1pm to 5pm, Ladies’ Night 8pm to 12am
Cost: Ladies’ Day Dhs149. Ladies’ Night
complimentary free-flow for ladies
Contact: (056) 358 4458
Tiki Pacifico
This is your island escape without the flight. Expect a naughty, playful night filled with tropical energy, unlimited drinks while dining, and a luau vibe that makes you forget what day it is.
Location: Tiki Pacifico Al Bandar, Al Raha Beach
Time: Mondays, 7pm to 11pm
Contact: (050) 696 9298
JazzBar, Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi Corniche
JazzBar draws you in early and makes leaving feel unnecessary. Live music sets the tone, the crowd knows how to have a good time, and Fridays stretch comfortably into the early hours. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow easily between songs and the energy builds without feeling forced. Ladies can enjoy five selected drinks for Dhs109, plus 20% off the à la carte menu, making it a solid choice for a late, music-led night out.
Location: JazzBar, Radisson Blu Hotel and Resorts, Abu Dhabi Corniche
Time: Fridays, 7pm to 2am
Cost: Dhs109 for five selected drinks plus 20% off à la carte
Contact: (056) 104 1114
Tiki Pacifico
Bla Bla Bar, Yas Island
Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa
The Overlook, The WB Abu Dhabi
Sunset views, rooftop vibes and an infinity pool make this a dreamy Thursday plan. It is relaxed, scenic and quietly indulgent.
Ishtar, Yas Marina
Arabian-inspired glamour meets lively entertainment at this upbeat ladies’ night. You’ll be treated to unlimited beverages, bold flavours and a belly dancer who keeps the energy high.
Location: Ishtar, Yas Marina
Time: Tuesdays, 8pm to 12am
Contact: (050) 402 2293
Location: The Overlook, The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton
Time: Thursdays, 6pm to 9pm
Cost: Three complementary drinks, 25% off food
Contact: (02) 815 0000
Moon Deck, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi Resort
Moonlit Queens is all about soft lights, shisha clouds and unhurried conversation. It is a calm, cosy midweek reset with just enough sparkle.
Location: Le Meridien Abu Dhabi Resort
Time: Wednesdays, 5pm to 10pm
Cost: Dhs99
Contact: (056) 688 5361
Barbossa,
Yas Bay
Easy vibes, no fuss, no spend pressure. When you’re here, the night unfolds naturally and no-one is checking the time.
Location: Barbossa, Yas Bay
Time: Thursdays, 7pm to 10pm
Cost: Free-flowing house spirits, wine and prosecco
Contact: (050) 185 8068
Ishtar, Yas Marina
EAT | DRINK | SHOP
SIENA
SIENA
Paris had it first – now DIFC gets its turn
WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE
When new restaurants arrive with a pre-existing backstory, expectations are immediately high. Born in Paris in 2023, Siena spent three years becoming a name-drop location and now with its arrival in Dubai it’s looking to replicate this must-visit status. The pressure’s on.
Happily, the room earns its confidence. The interior draws on Tuscan references – Italian wall frescoes, sculpted mouldings, marble tabletops, bespoke bird chandeliers – it’s glamorous without being oppressive, a space that works equally well for a business dinner as it does a romantic rendezvous. Instantly, Siena feels right at home in DIFC.
The food
The menu is built around Italian generosity – proper portions, serious sourcing – with a French sensibility around the edges. The lobster roll arrives on a soft focaccina bun baked fresh each day, a twist on the American classic that immediately delights. The prawn carpaccio is a study in restraint: red prawns from Marzara del Vallo in Sicily dressed with nothing more than a little lemon oil. The prawns are sweet and
dissolve rather than chew. There’s real confidence in leaving a dish this unadorned.
The arancini are more playful – a lemon risotto base balanced against salmon and caviar, the acidity cutting through the richness superbly. It’s a fusion move, but an elegant one. The cacio e pepe is finished at the table in a cheese wheel, managing to feel theatrical without tipping into gimmick. The beef fillet – Australian wagyu – is properly marbled and properly cooked with the knife gliding through seamlessly on contact.
Dessert is where the meal ends well. The tiramisu carries obvious personal weight for the kitchen – the chef
hails from the Veneto region where the dish originated – and is deeply flavoured, classically assembled, not fussed with. The pavlova, by contrast, is a more architectural affair, built with passionfruit and mango in place of the usual strawberries. The result is a balance between sweet and sharp that comes together as a fitting finale.
The service
Genuine, warm and informed. The staff know the menu intimately and make recommendations that felt like personal suggestions, not recitations.
What’s on the bill
Prawn carpaccio (Dhs160), lobster roll (Dhs140), arancini (Dhs125), cacio e pepe (Dhs115), beef fillet (Dhs395), tiramisu (Dhs65), Pavlova (Dhs65).
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Siena arrives in Dubai carrying significant expectations and meets them with real composure. The Italian bones are solid, the French polish is evident, and the room merely adds to the whole experience.
Location: Gate Village 7, DIFC, Dubai Times: Tue to Sun from 7pm Contact: (04) 317 6000 | @sienarestaurant.dubai
BEACH HOUSE ABU DHABI
Italian soul, sea views and a tiramisu you won’t forget
WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER
The spot
Beach House sits right on the shoreline at the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas. A short stroll past the hotel’s pools and sun loungers leads to tables and low-slung sofas angled towards the water, looking out across Saadiyat’s pristine beach. The menu leans into the flavours of the Italian coastline, with home-style dishes designed for sharing and slow, relaxed meals.
The vibe
There is something easy about the atmosphere here. You are outdoors, close enough to the water to feel the breeze, but still in the comfort of a polished terrace. No sand, no wind in your food, just the sound of the sea and the occasional bird eyeing your plate like it paid for a reservation. Keep
an eye out for the resident ravens, too. They patrol the terrace like regulars and are not shy about making a move if your plate is left unattended. As the sun sets, the light softens and a DJ adds low, lounge-style beats that never overpowers the conversation. It feels relaxed. It’s where people settle in for sunset, order another round, and let the evening unfold at its own pace.
The food & drinks
We started with the fritto misto, a generous mix of baby squid, shrimp and crisp sweet potato chips, served with a punchy yuzu chilli mayo. Light, crunchy and dangerously easy to keep picking at. The spinaci e avocado salad is fresh and thoughtful, with baby spinach, green apple, toasted nuts and pops of raspberry that lift the
whole dish. It feels clean, balanced and very much in tune with the beach setting. For mains, the risotto ai frutti di mare delivers comfort with a coastal twist. Creamy carnaroli rice comes packed with seafood and a rich, savoury sauce that feels indulgent without being heavy. Then came the tiramisu. Silky mascarpone, properly soaked ladyfingers and deep espresso flavour, finished with delicate cocoa pearls. It is light, rich and quietly addictive.
The service
Service is excellent. Friendly, attentive and well-paced, with staff who know when to check in and when to step back. It adds to the easy, unhurried feel of the evening.
What’s on the bill
You’ll spend around Dhs450 for two people for starters, mains and dessert. For this setting inside a luxury resort, it feels fair.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Beach House delivers proper Italian comfort food, calm sea views and a tiramisu worthy of an award.
Location: Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, Saadiyat Island
Time: Daily, 12:30pm to 12am
Contact: (02) 407 1380; @beachhousead
YAVA
A friendly neighbourhood restaurant that leans into its Palestinian roots
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
When Yava opened in Wasl 51 in late 2021, it cast its net wide across the Mediterranean. But owner Basil Yassin has since gone home –to his family’s roots in Palestine – and let that lineage recolour everything.
“You won’t find batata harra on our menu,” he tells What’s On, with quiet confidence. What you will find are Palestinian home dishes: the things his family cooked not from recipes but from memory and instinct. That distinction, rather than lowering expectations, should raise them.
The room takes its palette from Jaffa – stony blues and weathered greens. Outside in the shared Wasl 51 courtyard, tables sit beside orange trees. It is one of the loveliest spots to eat in winter.
The food
Begin with Tante Nora, the tabbouleh named after Basil’s mother’s best friend – a woman who apparently never wrote her recipe down yet managed to nail it every time.
We also loved the honey fatteh (Dhs66), a savoury riff on kunafa – playful, and fun.
The Yaffawifa (Dhs57) is non-negotiable. It’s a spiral pie of crispy baklava-thin dough, minced beef, homemade labneh and chilli oil that’s both indulgent and delicious. It is the dish that you’ll happily retire your usual kibbeh order for.
But the maqloubeh (Dhs99) is the thing. That famous dish of the Arab diaspora – layered rice, eggplant and meat, typically flipped onto the plate to reveal itself – here arrives under a tagine lid, a lamb shank standing upright inside after four-to-five hours of slow cooking. When Basil lifts the lid tableside and
removes the bone, the flesh falls apart like butter. The seven-spiced rice is properly glossy, with almonds toasted thick and dark atop. Make no mistake, this is the dish to come for.
The service
If Basil is there – and he almost always is – you win. He sits outside with the easy watchfulness of someone who cares deeply but knows not to hover.
Location: Wasl51, Al Wasl Road, Dubai Times: Daily 8am to 11.30pm Contact: (0)4 548 5733; @yavadubai
25 MINUTES TO TULUM
A taste of Mexico on our own shoreline
WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER
The spot
25 Minutes to Tulum is perched on the sand at Bab Al Nojoum and is easily one of the best things to happen to Hudayriyat Island. Hudayriyat already has that open sky, wide water feeling, but this place adds colour and character. There are woven lights, wooden tables, low seating and the sea right in front of you. It leans into its Mexican inspiration without feeling forced. You come for lunch and end up planning your next visit before you’ve paid the bill.
The vibe
Horses drift through the shallow water nearby like they are part of the décor. The breeze rolls in off the sea and does wonders for your mood. It feels cinematic without trying too hard. Barefoot energy, sun on your shoulders, music humming in the background, it is relaxed and lively at the same time. Sunglasses stay on, cocktails arrive cold and tables fill up as the sun starts to dip.
The food & drinks
The tacos – soft and flavourful – taste incredibly authentic, as if they were made using traditional, home-style recipes handed down by a grandmother. The Trio of Salsas arrives with crisp tortillas that demand quick action. Each one hits differently. One brings heat, one is sharp and citrusy, another deep and smoky. You’ll keep going back for more.
The watermelon salad with ricotta, mint and tajin is a standout. Sweet, salty and fresh, it’s a dish that makes you rethink what a salad should be. Ceviche Acapulco with prawns, avocado, onion, green chilli and cilantro is bright and clean, perfect in the heat. Then there is the Tulum Burger: chipotle, cheese, caramelised onions and toreados stacked high, with fries that vanish quickly. It is messy, indulgent and worth it.
If you still have room, order the churros. Warm, soft in the middle, rolled in cinnamon sugar and dipped into dulce de leche. They are seriously addictive.
The service
You are welcomed warmly at the door, but service at the table can be inconsistent and a little slow. Still, the food and the setting carry the experience.
What’s on the bill
Dhs150 to Dhs200 is enough for two people if you share a few dishes. Portions are generous and sharing is the way to go.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
It is a proper escape that happens to be just 25 minutes from the city. Service may wobble, but the food, the view and that watermelon salad make it a gem worth the drive.
Location: Bab Al Nojoum, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Time: Daily, 9am to 1am
Contact: (02) 691 0222; @25minutestotulum
RISE & GRAZE
Aleppo eggs, huevos rancheros
and Sri Lankan kothu roti headline
Neighbourhood Food Hall’s new weekend breakfast play
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
Four years in, Neighbourhood Food Hall has figured out the formula. Twelve stalls, a loyal local crowd, families claiming tables like territorial animals – it works. What it didn’t have, until now, was a reason to get there before lunch.
Owner Nicky Ramchandani heard the community loud and clear: they wanted mornings. So, he made them happen. Every weekend from 9am to noon, six of NFH’s stalls flip their menus for a dedicated breakfast service – and a roster of local musicians, including Filipino artist Bonz and singer-songwriter Johann Gerard, keep things from feeling like a quiet brunch.
Here’s where to put your money…
OMA
[BAKERY & COFFEE]
The newest arrival to NFH and already drawing queues since the day it opened, OMA is Rahul Grover’s homegrown bakery and coffee counter, and the first stop any sensible morning should make. The freshly baked croissant (Dhs14) is properly good; the Nutella version (Dhs21) a naughtier option if you’re up to it. But the move – the real move – is to buy your croissant here, walk it over to Mashawi next door, and ask them to make it Aleppo-style: fried egg, cheese, the works. Nobody will stop you.
@taste.oma
Kokum
Kokum & Kari
Tacos Los Hermanos
Mashawi by Dukkan
[MODERN SYRIAN GRILL]
Salam El Baba moved her entire operation to NFH about three months ago and Motor City is measurably better for it. The Aleppo set (Dhs54) is the breakfast centrepiece –a metal platter of fried eggs cooked over charcoal, labneh balls, olive oil and zaatar, feta, olives, fresh veg and warm saj bread. It looks generous because it is. Eleven dishes on the breakfast menu, including eggs and scallions on saj (Dhs32), but the set is the one that earns its keep. Syrian breakfast, done properly, hits differently when there’s live music in the room.
@mashawi_by_dukkan
Sandwich Nerds
[NFH’S NEWEST SARNIE SPOT]
New to NFH and already staking a claim. Sandwich Nerds usually deals in homemade sourdough toasties – halloumi melts, Cubano beef situations – but breakfast has them leaning into a different gear. The OG Melt (Dhs29) is a four-cheese operation: yellow cheddar, red cheddar, emmental, mozzarella, with house-made chilli sauce, fried onions and chilli flakes. The Morning Kickstart (Dhs32) takes it further: chilli cheese egg toast with scrambled eggs.
@sandwich.nerds
Oriental Dining
Neighbourhood Food Hall, Motor City, Dubai, Sat and Sun 9am to noon (musicians perform until 3pm), free entry. @neighbourhoodfoodhalls
Oriental Dining
[MALAYSIAN FAVOURITES]
Owner Ming keeps it focused and true: this is a Malaysian breakfast, built the Malaysian way. The kaya toast set (Dhs35) – thick-cut toast with coconut jam, two very soft-boiled eggs and a pulled teh tarik – is a humble accoutrement. Sweet, savoury, and mega authentic. It’s the antidote to every avocado toast brunch menu in the city, and it costs a lot less, too.
@orientaldining
Tacos Los Hermanos
[MEXICAN STREET FOOD]
Brothers Isaac and Josue have been making the case for Mexican food in this city for long enough that the argument feels settled. Their breakfast contribution is textbook: huevos rancheros (Dhs35), two crispy tortillas, refried beans, two sunnyside eggs and a salsa ranchera that earns its keep – charred tomatoes, onion, garlic and jalapeños, finished with cheese and coriander. The sauce is made in-house. You can taste the effort.
@tacosloshermanosdxb
Kokum & Kari
[COASTAL INDIAN & SRI LANKAN]
The Sri Lankan kothu roti (Dhs32) is NFH’s wildcard breakfast dish and arguably its most exciting. Shredded paratha, scrambled egg, onions, curry spices, all cooked together in one loud, clattering pan – the dish’s nickname, taka tak, is the sound it makes. It’s deeply comforting in the way that only food cooked fast on high heat can be. If you’ve never had it, Saturday morning is a fine moment to start.
@kokumandkari
OMA
Mashawi by Dukkan
Sandwich Nerds
EL BOTIK
The vibe: An eclectic designled brand that draws heavy inspiration from the capital’s landmarks and hidden gems, you’ll find clothing as well as fun retail pieces such as neon lights, foam fingers, sticker sets, baby onesies, and more.
The hero piece: It’s hard to pick one, but heavy metal fans will love the Metallica-inspired “Abu Dhabi” tees, motorheads will appreciate the Abu Dhabi Drifting Hawaiian-style shirt, and Crocslovers will delight in the ‘Pixel Habibi’ pack of shoe charms. elbotik.com
LEIA K
The vibe: Fine jewellery that focuses on meaningful symbols and delicate craftsmanship, often highlighting regional pride.
The hero piece: The ‘United for the UAE’ necklace. A dainty piece that features the country map in different colours of stone as a symbol of the Emirates, sometimes accompanied by an enamelled palm tree, so you can keep a piece of home close to your heart. leia-k.com
STYLED WITH PRIDE
From regional cult-classic snack socks to skylineinspired silks, these UAE-based labels are making it easier than ever to rep the Emirates in style
WORDS: YI-HWA HANNA
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newly-arrived expat, there comes a point where the UAE stops being just a location and starts being home. A growing number of local designers
GYM SOX
The vibe: High-performance athletic wear designed to withstand the toughest workouts while keeping a sense of community at its core.
The hero piece: The ‘Dubai is Home’ socks. These aren’t just for the gym; they’re a cushioned, breathable nod to the city we love, featuring bold typography that looks just as good with sliders as it does with running shoes. gymsox.co
are tapping into that collective pride, creating pieces that go far beyond the standard souvenir. We’ve rounded up some of the homegrown brands celebrating the spirit, culture, and iconic symbols of the seven emirates.
The vibe: Effortless, comfortable basics for the modern resident who values quality and a sense of belonging with an East-Meets-West aesthetic inspired by Arabic pop culture. The hero piece: The ‘Home Is’ clothing series. From T-shirts to hoodies and caps proclaiming that home is the UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras al Khaimah, or Sharjah (and Jeddah and Beirut, for our friends from those places, or those with more than one home!), these pieces are as cozy as the sentiment printed on the chest. thefaem.com
LUMENA MAISON
the UAE, this brand focuses on sustainable,
pieces ‘rooted in this land’ that reflect the local landscape and urban centres. The products use heavyweight 260 GSM cotton and finishes made to stand the test of time – and the brand dedicates proceeds from every order to supporting Ghaf tree conservation and restoration efforts.
The hero piece: The ‘Dubai Visionary’ tee, the ‘Abu Dhabi – The Capital’ tee, and the ‘UAE Vintage – The Golden Era’ tee. Whether you’re Team AD or Team DXB, these minimalist tees and sweaters pay tribute to the specific charm of each emirate. ghafwear.com
AMRI AMARNIA
The vibe: Urban-inspired headwear and apparel that merges local identity with global street trends, and is all about celebrating the ambition and vision of the city’s energy.
The hero piece: The ‘Dubai Number One’ cap. A play on the city’s discipline and the spirit of those who seek to be at the top, this cap is a statement of Dubai’s “can-do” reputation. amriamarnia.com
BATTA OFFICIAL
The vibe: A brand built on the pillars of unity and purpose, Batta focuses on high-quality oversized fits that carry a deeper message. AED 15 of every purchase is donated to a charity organisation, with one of the brand’s partners being the Al Jalila Foundation.
The hero piece: The oversized UAE T-shirt. This cotton tee features a clean, graphic embroidered representation of the UAE, designed to symbolise the strength found in the country’s diversity. battaofficial.com
The vibe: Luxury accessories that blend art with fashion, specialising in premium silk fabrics with graphic art-inspired intricate storytelling. All of their designs are inspired by life in the UAE, from tennis games in Abu Dhabi, to the Dubai skyline, the Emirati dhow, the country’s equestrian heritage, and more.
The hero piece: The Burj Al Arab silk scarf. Part of a wider collection that features the same print across pocket squares, kimonos, and more, this piece serves as a wearable tribute to one of Dubai’s most famous architectural marvels. lumenamaison.com
LOUD MOOD
The vibe: A contemporary streetwear label that focuses on “loud” expressions and minimalist aesthetics that resonate with the regional youth culture.
The hero piece: The ‘+971 Here to Stay’ cap. Featuring the UAE country code, this baseball cap (available in multiple colours) is a subtle but definitive statement for those choosing to make their life in the desert a longterm choice. There are matching T-shirts, too. loudmood.shop
TERRIBLY REAL
The vibe: A brand that aims to capture the “real” side of living in the UAE through relatable, meme-adjacent streetwear, it has clothing for kids as well as adults.
The hero piece: The 971 drop with “UAE Verified” tees and hoodies, printed with iconic UAE symbols (and the classic passport visa stamp) and made of 100% terry cotton. terriblyreal.com
NABAT AND HAGAT
The vibe: A creative label deeply rooted in Emirati culture and heritage, it translates traditional motifs and cultural nuances into modern fashion. In keeping with their name – which means ‘Plants and things’ in Arabic – their ‘wearable art’ is inspired by the iconic plants familiar to those that grew up in the Middle East.
The hero piece: The Ghazal Emirati line’s adults and kids tees, tote bags, and sticker sheets, with creative prints that symbolise the feeling of being “strong as falcon, radiant as a ghazal.” nabatandhagat.com
EMIRATI EDITION
The vibe: A premium label dedicated to celebrating national identity through highquality apparel and accessories that lean into local pride.
The hero piece: Their Emirati-themed limitededition pieces, from signature tees to the ‘Al Wasl camel’, ‘Bo Ras Emirati Pin’, and ‘Zayed Stamp’ shirt. emiratiedition.ae
PRO BOXS
The vibe: This fun and playful sock brand celebrates the “small things” that define the childhoods of many UAE residents, featuring iconic snacks with a taste of nostalgia. The hero piece: The UAEfoodie-favourite-inspired socks. Featuring prints of cult classics like Chips Oman, Vimto, Karak, and Laban Up, these will put a smile on the face of anyone who knows the true taste of an old-school UAE cafeteria visit. proboxs.com
PIECE OF YOU
The vibe: A fine jewellery brand specialising in personalised and thematic collections through ethical craftsmanship.
The hero piece: The ‘UAE Pride’ collection. This range of necklaces, rings, and pins includes charms and pendants that pay tribute to the nation and its future through country outlines, flags, dirham coins, and falcon symbols. pieceofyou.ae
TEESING CLOTHING
The vibe: A playful, pun-heavy lifestyle brand that takes iconic elements of UAE daily life – from cafeteria culture to local landmarks –and turns them into wearable conversation starters made from cotton and sustainable bamboo fabric.
The hero piece: The ‘Dubai Heartbeat’ tee, ‘Not Today Habibi’ tee, and ‘Dubai is always a good idea’ tee, with ‘if you know, you know’ feelings in clean, minimalist styles. teesingclothing.com
THE MAY EDIT: WHAT’S ON AND WORTH IT
A
curated run of events, experiences and everything worth leaving the house for
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR & LEONIE WAGNER
Roll Racing DXB
When: May 1 and 22
Where: Dubai Autodrome
Got a need for speed? Go headto-head with fellow drivers in this adrenaline-fuelled (but safe) drag race at Dubai Autodrome. Participants start with a rolling speed of 80kph before launching down a 400-metre strip – a pure test of power and nerve. Open to both cars and SUVs, it’s the perfect chance to push your limits and show off your skills under the lights of a world-class track.
Dhs30 main grandstand for spectators (bought on-site), Dhs420 per car (online discounted rate) dubaiautodrome.ae
Art Dubai
When: May 14
Where: Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Art Dubai is one of the Middle East’s leading art fairs, bringing together galleries, artists and collectors from around the world. The fair showcases a mix of contemporary, modern and digital art, with a strong focus on the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. Alongside exhibitions, the fair also features talks, installations and cultural programmes. For further details, stay tuned to whatson.ae artdubai.ae
CATS
When : 14 to 24 May
Where : Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS lands in Abu Dhabi this May, bringing with it the kind of theatre that grabs your attention from the first note. It is colourful, slightly strange and completely captivating, with dancers moving like actual cats and a score that stays with you long after. For families, it works beautifully as a first big theatre outing. There is spectacle, there is story, and then there is “Memory”, which tends to stop the room.
Tickets: from Dhs90 @etihadarena
DXB Snow Run
When: May 17
Where: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
The city’s most unique fitness event, DXB Snow Run, returns to Ski Dubai, where participants run through a sub-zero, snow-covered obstacle course. Designed for all fitness levels, it features shortdistance races (3km or 5km) through the icy slopes and snowy trails, offering a fun, slightly surreal challenge that mixes endurance with a chill-factor twist – literally.
Dhs50 spectator pass, from Dhs115 per participant skidxb.com
Alserkal Art Month
When: Until May 18 (weekends)
Where: Alserkal Avenue, Dubai
For years, Alserkal Art was a week-long affair, but the popular district has upped its game, expanding into a month-long initiative that brings art lovers together on a shared platform during a challenging time. The month’s evolving programme is inspired by Shilpa Gupta’s work “Still They Know Not What I Dream” – an installation located at The Yard in Alserkal Avenue. Throughout the month, visitors can expect a dynamic line-up of new gallery exhibitions, public art commissions and interventions, a collaborative commercial exhibition at Concrete, Majlis Talks, space takeovers, and workshops, alongside open studios, performances and reading groups hosted by the Alserkal Arts Foundation. The programme will culminate in a closing week that coincides with Art Dubai 2026, featuring special art commissions developed in partnership with the fair.
Free entry to the art fair, select experiences and workshops available at an additional cost. @alserkalavenue
Swedish House Mafia
When: May 16
Where: Ushuaia, Dubai Marina
Swedish House Mafia – Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso – are set to headline the final show of the Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour
Experience season. Formed in Stockholm, the trio quickly rose to become one of the most influential names in modern electronic music, earning GRAMMY nominations and selling out arenas and festival stages worldwide.
Tickets from Dhs250 ushuaiadubai.com
Incanto at Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi
When: 16 May
Where: Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi
Incanto brings together dancers from Fantasia Ballet
Abu Dhabi for a one-night performance that leans into grace, control and quiet storytelling. The choreography moves between classical ballet and softer, more contemporary moments, giving the show a layered feel. It is not about big drama, but about feeling something shift as the music and movement build. If you are looking for something gentle but still deeply engaging, this is an easy yes.
Tickets: Dhs35
When: Until 31 May
Where: Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Picasso, the Figure exhibition traces how Picasso returned to the human form again and again, reshaping it in ways that still feel bold today. There are pieces on loan from major institutions, alongside works that connect his influence to the region. It is thoughtful without being heavy, and surprisingly accessible, even if you are not deep into art. One to take your time with.
Tickets: adults Dhs70; kids under 18, free @louvreabudhabi
The Way Back Home
When: May 8 & 9 and May 16 & 17
Where: Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi (May 8 & 9); The New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai (May 16 &17)
Oliver Jeffers’ much-loved story makes its way to the stage in a production that feels just as imaginative as the book. It follows a young boy who finds a plane in his cupboard and ends up stranded on the moon, where he meets an alien in the same situation. What follows is a story about figuring things out together, even when everything feels unfamiliar. It’s a sweet tale of friendship, teamwork and the idea that differences melt when someone needs help. It is playful, warm and easy for younger audiences to follow, with enough heart to keep adults quietly invested too.
Tickets from Dhs135 @newcoventgardentheatredxb
Picasso Exhibition at Louvre Abu Dhabi
SUN SCREENINGS
10 scintillating blockbusters to look forward to this summer
The Devil Wears Prada 2
Expected UAE release date: May 1
This latest entry into the trend catalogue of age-gap sequels (it’s been a full 20 years since the release of the original), The Devil Wears Prada 2 features returning talent Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci in a follow-up to one of the fashion world’s most iconic motion picture outings. Like its predecessor, it’s a comedy that tackles the eccentricities and egos of the catwalk and its coverage, with Miranda (Streep) adjusting to magazine couture in the current cash-for-clicks era. You won’t believe number two.
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
The Mandalorian and Grogu
Expected UAE release date: May 22
The Star Wars universe’s favourite modern double act, Mando and Baby Yoda (shhh, we know) are swapping episodic streams for the big screen this May. The story will likely build on the successful formula of the serialised show, which was essentially an intergalactic samurai saga – with The Mandalorian (Pedro Pascal) now performing mercenary shift work for the New Republic. Expect legacy Jedi cameos, Grogu binge-eating from a smorgasbord of exotic critters and high-stakes scrapes with helmet-rattling blaster fire. This is the way.
Disclosure Day
Expected UAE release date: June 12
Plot information on this Spielberg-directed, Emily Blunt-led sci-fi picture has been locked down tighter than a set of Majestic 12 meeting minutes, but we can make some assumptions given the film’s name and the director’s extra-terrestrially tinged track record. The term disclosure relates to governmental confirmation of an alien presence on Earth, and it really feels onbrand for 2026. It’s from one of the directing world’s GOATs, whose past work in this field includes War of the Worlds, AI, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, anybody else feel like he’s trying to tell us something?
Masters of the Universe
Expected UAE release date: June 4
By the power of Grayskull! Via the proxy of Amazon MGM. This live-action reboot of the classic 80s cartoon will likely heavily rely on the currency of late-millennial nostalgia, middle-aged dads dutifully inflicting their own childhood memories on kids unequipped to appreciate them. This film does offer a fresh take on He-Man lore, framing the character in the real world, before he discovers his birthright – the Sword of Power, and the Throne of Eternia. If it doesn’t take itself too seriously (and if your titular character’s uniform includes a leather kilt, how can it?), there’s a chance Masters of the Universe could tick the right Barbie-esque boxes. Get it wrong, and it could be a Morbin-time-tier fiasco (interestingly also starring Jared Leto as Skeletor).
CULTURE
Toy Story 5
Expected UAE release date: June 18
Animated franchises really don’t come much bigger than Pixar’s Toy Story collection, so this is a pretty safe bet for summer screen popcorn fodder. This is the fifth full-length feature in the ongoing series, which gives the viewer an imagined insight into the secret life of toys and in doing so, somehow manages to explore themes such as impermanence, consumerism and the death of innocence. What more could Andy’s toy box possibly hope to teach us? Well, number five reportedly looks at the proliferation of electronic toys – iPads and Roblox over adjustable action figures with pull strings, in-app purchases over boots with snakes in. It’ll have to dig deep to meet the standard set in the fourth instalment, but Pixar has a recognised track record for going to infinity and beyond.
Moana
Expected UAE release date: July 10
Make way, Disney’s live-action remake of one of its most beloved modern hits lands in July, with Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui and Catherine Laga‘aia playing Moana. This story of a young, steel-spirited Polynesian adventurer feels like a natural fit for Disney’s relentless deanimating machine, with a soundtrack of stone-cold sing-a-long bangers and comic relief from Hei-hei, the film world’s most beloved cross-eyed rooster.
Supergirl
Expected UAE release date: June 26 Fresh from her scene-stealing, dogriling, emo-pouting cameo in James Gunn’s 2025 Superman reboot, Milly Alcock’s eponymous Supergirl will be landing in UAE box offices this June for her own dedicated adaptation. The supporting cast includes the fan-cast favourite of Jason Momoa as comic book biker villain Lobo and Eve Ridley as Ruthye, the child who encounters Supergirl during her intergalactic birthday celebrations, enlisting her to avenge her father’s murder.
The Odyssey
Expected UAE release date: July 17
What’s the recipe for a 24k solid gold Oscar bet? Christopher Nolan plus Homeric tragedy plus an IMAX-first cinematic format. An epic 2,700 years in the making, with a cast of absurdly stellar billing (including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Benny Safdie, Elliot Page, Himesh Patel, John Leguizamo, Mia Goth, Corey Hawkins, and Samantha Morton), it’s the story of Odysseus, the Greek king of Ithaca, chronicling his return from the Trojan War. Which, rather appropriately (and definitively), is a bit of an odyssey.
The End of Oak Street
Expected UAE release date: August 14
Described as a mystery sci-fi survival thriller (nope, not actual day-to-day life in 2026) from Warner Bros. – The End of Oak Street, starring Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor, answers the question ‘what if your street were to be ripped from its earthly plane, to be transported to some unfriendly corner of existence?’ It’s a less than ideal, a grass-isn’t-actually-greener situation that benefits in no small way from genre icon J. J. Abrams’ production assistance. A must-watch.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Expected UAE release date: July 31
Tom Holland must have genuine Spidey-strength in his lower back muscles because he really is carrying the entire cinematic Marvel adaptation load for Sony at the moment. This will be his fourth dedicated outing as the Queensborn webslinger, and despite having saved the world from spandex-toting ne’er-do-wells on multiple occasions, this latest peril aversion quest is likely to be his toughest yet. Not just because he’s facing off against a fresh roster of mega-villains, but also because his on-screen (and real-life) paramour, MJ, is moving on to partners new. The franchise has given so much to fans, and if the conspiracy theories generated by the trailer (Man-spider, Sadie Sink as Jean Gray, the return of Daredevil and alt universe Spideys) are anything to go by, this could be another crowd-pleasing clutch of radioactive Easter eggs.
THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT
WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER
Inside Abu Dhabi’s Butterfly Gardens, where calm comes naturally
Lately, everyone seems to be looking for a bit of calm, so a trip to the newest attraction in Al Qana felt like the right idea. The Butterfly Gardens sits next to The National Aquarium, and inside we didn’t just find the calm we were searching for – we found a quiet and surprising sense of wonder, too.
It’s around 3pm when we visit The Butterfly Gardens. After stepping inside, things immediately slow down. As the doors close, the air instantly shifts, and for a second nothing happens. Then a flicker. A soft rush of colour just past your shoulder. And then another.
More than 10,000 butterflies, moving through the space like they’ve always been there.
They don’t stay still long enough for you to take them in all at once. You catch them in pieces. A flash of electric blue that disappears before you can focus. A pale, almost translucent white drifting low like a loose petal. Black wings edged in gold that open slowly, deliberately. Some hover close to your face, curious. Others dart past, quick and erratic. And then there are the ones that settle.
Set in Al Qana, just minutes from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the whole experience is fully indoors, climatecontrolled, and designed so you can wander without a set route, stopping at the pond, doubling back to the butterflies, or just standing still.
A SEA OF COLOUR
Along the path, there’s a fruit platter. Slices laid out like a quiet offering. And this is where everything slows. Butterflies gather, clustering gently, wings opening and closing as they feed. Bright orange pressed against soft yellow. Blue layered over white. Nearby, a cabinet of pupae hangs in stillness. Small, delicate, almost jewel-like. Some metallic gold, catching the light. Others green, blending into the leaves. This is the part you don’t usually see – the waiting stage. The quiet before everything begins again.
You realise this place isn’t just about the flutter. It’s about the whole cycle.
Kids notice the butterflies first, but not always with excitement. There’s hesitation. A step back. A tight grip on a parent’s hand. Then one lands close enough to study. Not on them, just near. That’s all it takes for the fear to soften. Curiosity takes over and minutes later they’re leaning in, laughing, trying to stay still enough for one to land.
It happens quickly. That shift from unsure to completely at ease. And somewhere in that, you slow down, too.
TWO DOMES, TWO WORLDS
The Butterfly Gardens stretch across two biodomes, each with its own feel, shaped around ecosystems from Asia and the Americas.
The first is dense and immersive. Tall planting, soft filtered light, butterflies moving constantly around you. It feels full and alive.
Then you cross over and everything opens. The second dome is calmer. There’s a koi pond where orange and white fish glide past each other without urgency. You find yourself standing there longer than you meant to, just mesmerised.
Around you, more life reveals itself slowly: a two-toed sloth, barely moving, tucked into the branches; a Palawan bearcat watching quietly from above; a Sri Lankan giant squirrel darting across the trees in flashes of rust and cream: a dwarf caiman, still and prehistoric; finches cutting through the air in quick bursts of colour.
You could be in and out in under two hours, or you take your time by sitting by the pond. Whichever way you choose to experience the Butterfly Gardens, there’s something rather magical about it – the colours, the way they move, the calm that settles in without you noticing. Nothing here is rushing you. For a little while, everything feels lighter, quieter, and just a bit more gentle.
The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi
Location: Al Qana Walk, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Rabdan
Time: Mon-Fri 10am to 8pm; Sat-Sun 9am to 8pm
Cost: Dhs55
Contact: (056) 584 1769
IT’S GAME TIME
Gamers, get ready to press Start
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
There’s a lot for gamers to be excited about right now with the release of Forza Horizon 6, 007 First Light, Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, and Yoshi and the Mysterious Book – and that’s just a taste.
But for gamers in the UAE, there’s even more reason to get excited: a major gaming festival is returning to Dubai this month, and it’s enough to turn even the most seasoned players into full-on worldbeating button mashers.
The Dubai Esports and Games Festival is backed with an itinerary of activities. Gamers, ready up for the biggest and immersive edition to date with exclusive meet and greets, unreleased game previews, world-first glimpses and more.
GameExpo
When: May 22 to 24
Where: Dubai World Trade Centre, Za’abeel Halls 2 and 3
A part of the Dubai Esports and Game Festival, this gaming expo is open to families and gamers of all ages, and no… it doesn’t matter what genre you’re into. Whether it’s motorsport racing, simulation, action, adventure, esports,
and so on, you will come together with the gaming community in Dubai to enjoy all the fun.
Ticket holders will be able to explore some cutting-edge gaming products, new titles, and even meet regional and global gaming stars.
And of course, what’s a gaming convention if there isn’t a little competition involved. You can either be a part of the action at Gaming District, where you can play the latest games across consoles and PCs, or cheer on your fellow gamers having a go at PlayBeyond at the Main Arena.
Over at Velocity Garage, you can feel the need for speed across difference simulators. If that doesn’t get your heart racing fast
enough, the action-packed laser tag at the Battle Arena will surely do the trick.
Oh, and gamers, Halloween might not thrill you – but the epic cosplay at this expo will, and there’s even a championship battle. So don’t just throw on a mask and cape and say you’re sorted.
For the anime fans, there are futuristic and anime-inspired worlds with immersive experiences, and of course, for the little ones there is a large family zone with easy-to-play games and activities for different ages.
And, for that one person who just tagged along and isn’t into gaming, there’s The Narrows – a marketplace featuring local and Emirati businesses, artists, creators and unique collectables.
For the LEGO fans, for the first time, Dubai Esports Festival 2026 will feature a collaboration with LEGO Certified Stores, and will introduce a dedicated LEGO experience. Everyone in the family will be able to show off their creativity and imagination as they create some unique builds in the building zones, and take on creative challenges that celebrate storytelling, problem-solving and play.
TICKET DETAILS
• Per adult (over 18s): Dhs13.75 for a one-day pass, Dhs28.75 for a three-day pass.
• Per family (2 adults and 4 children): Dhs28.75 for a one-day pass, Dhs63.75 for a three-day pass
• Student pass (with valid ID): Dhs10 for a one-day pass, Dhs15 for a three-day pass.
• Under 6s can enter for free.
• Make your purchase on dubai.platinumlist.net
AN A-Z GUIDE TO WELLNESS IN THE UAE
One of the realities of life in the UAE is pace. It’s fast, full, and often non-stop, which is why carving out time for yourself isn’t indulgent, it’s a necessity.
Wellness here comes in every form: high-energy, slow and mindful, deeply restorative, or just simple habits done well. Whether you’re easing into a routine or pushing things further, here’s an A–Z of ways to feel better – without overcomplicating it.
A is for Ashtanga Yoga
WORDS: LANA DU
How to move, reset and feel good this month
This isn’t the kind of yoga where you drift in and out. Ashtanga is structured, repetitive and quietly intense – the kind of practice that builds over time. If you stick with it, you’ll feel the difference. Classes are led by experienced yogis dedicated to authentic, mindful practice.
Where: Ashtanga Yoga, Al Quoz, Dubai
Contact: @ashtangayogadubai
B is for beach volleyball
Sounds casual. Isn’t always. A few rallies in and you’ll realise how quickly it turns competitive. That said, the local players at Kite Beach keep it relaxed –turn up, join a game, and see how long you last in the sand.
Where: Kite Beach, Umm Suqeim 1, Dubai
Contact: @kitebeachdubai
C is for cold plunge therapy
Cold plunges aren’t subtle – you feel them immediately. The first few seconds are a shock, then something clicks: your breathing steadies, your focus sharpens, and you step out feeling strangely reset. Beit Sisu offers private suites with plunges ranging from 3.5-8°C, giving you a personal, restorative experience.
Where: Beit Sisu, Arjaan by Rotana Dubai Media City, Dubai
Contact: @beitsisu
F is for freestyle swimming
Simple, effective, and hard to beat. Swimming laps clears your head while working your entire body – no noise, no distractions, just rhythm and breath. At Etizan Fitness, you can make the most of their 50m Olympic pool – eight lanes, 2.4m deep, indoors – perfect for a focused swim or a few energising laps.
Where: Etizan Fitness, Khor Al Maqta, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Road, Abu Dhabi
Contact: etizan.ae
D is for detox
“Detox” can mean anything from eating cleaner for a few days to going all in. If you’re leaning towards the latter, a structured retreat removes the guesswork and, for a few days at least, the distractions, too. Go all out with a three-night wellness retreat at Zoya Health & Wellbeing Resort, where their personalised Zoya Detox Program is designed to improve metabolism, boost energy, and support clearer skin and better digestion.
Where: Zoya Health & Wellbeing Resort, Al Zorah, Ajman
Contact: @zoyawellbeing
E is for early morning runs
What better way to start your day than with a scenic run? In Dubai, you can hit the beachfront at Kite Beach or JBR, run along the Dubai Canal, explore Creek Park, Marina Walk, the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, or the Meydan Sobha Track. Heading to Abu Dhabi, routes from Al Qana and Hudayriyat Island to Jubail Mangrove Walk and the Abu Dhabi Corniche offer sea views and city streets to energise your morning. Lace up your sneakers, put on your headphones, and enjoy a refreshing start to the day wherever you are.
G is for guided breathwork
Some days, your mind won’t switch off. That’s where breathwork comes in. Done properly, it forces you to slow down and you’ll leave feeling lighter than when you walked in.
Where: The Chi Room, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai
Contact: @thechiroomdxb
H is for hydrafacial
Quick, efficient and results you can actually see. If your skin’s feeling dull or congested, this is the kind of treatment that makes you look more awake without much downtime. A medical-grade treatment that deeply cleanses, exfoliates and hydrates the skin while helping to clear congestion, acne and impurities. At Aqua Face Facial Bar, your skin is analysed and the treatment customised to your needs, all completed in just 60 minutes for a quick, glowing refresh.
Where: Aqua Face Facial Bar, Damac Towers, DIFC, Dubai
Contact: @aquafacefacialbar
I is for infrared sauna
Infrared saunas provide deep, detoxifying heat that relieves muscle and joint tension, boosts circulation and promotes relaxation and better sleep. Regular sessions can support detoxification, improve skin tone and even aid weight management by increasing metabolic rate.
Where: The Hundred Wellness Centre, Street 53B, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
Contact: @thehundredwellness
J is for journaling
No rules here. A few lines in the morning, a brain dump before bed – whatever works. It’s less about writing well and more about clearing space in your head. A simple yet powerful habit, just a few minutes a day can bring focus, balance and clarity to your daily routine.
K is for Kundalini Yoga
A little different from what most people expect. Breath, movement and sound all come into play, and the setting matters: somewhere calm and where you can actually switch off.
Where: SEVA Experience, Jumeirah 1, Jumeirah Beach Road
Contact: @sevaexperience
L is for lymphatic drainage massage
Gentle, slow and surprisingly effective. If you’re feeling puffy, sluggish, or just off, a lymphatic drainage massage stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce fluid retention, ease swelling and support detoxification and circulation.
Where: Aeon Clinic at Atlantis
The Royal, Crescent Rd, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Contact: @theaeonclinic
N is for nutrition
What works for someone else won’t always work for you. Getting a clearer picture of what your body actually needs – rather than guessing – can change everything. The gut sits at the centre of overall health, influencing digestion, metabolism, immunity and mood. Smart Salem Medical Fitness Centre offers AI‑powered gut microbiome analysis with personalised recommendations, alongside advanced screenings like blood tests and body composition checks.
Where: Smart Salem Medical Fitness Centre, Index Tower, Happiness Street, Zaa’beel Second, DIFC, Dubai
Contact: @smartsalemdubai
O is for outdoor fitness
Take your workout outdoors with MOVE at FIVE. The studio offers group sessions like bootcamps and full‑body sculpt classes designed to strengthen and energise every muscle. They also run a complementary community run club for anyone who prefers logging miles in the open air.
Where: FIVE Palm Jumeirah Hotel, No. 1, Palm Jumeirah
Contact: @moveatfive
M is for meditation
While there’s no shortage of online guided sessions you can follow from home, Eclipse Wellbeing Hub & Yoga Studio – a leading meditation institute in Dubai – offers a hands on experience for deeper practice. Their diverse range of meditation styles caters to seekers of calm, spiritual growth and self discovery, from Kundalini and Vipassana to mantra and full‑moon sound meditations.
Pilates looks controlled – and it is – but don’t mistake that for easy. Slow, precise movements have a way of catching up with you quickly. In a good way.
Where: Villa 34, Mileih Street, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @flo_studio
Q is for quality sleep
Sleep is the most underrated yet fastest recovery tool for your body and mind. Go to bed earlier, blackout your room and put your phone down – even one or two solid nights can reset your energy and mood. Treating quality sleep as essential is one of the simplest ways to boost wellbeing and feel balanced.
S is for Sketchers Performance Run
Lace up and join the Sketchers Performance Run, where you can walk, run or sprint the 3 km, 5 km or 10 km courses around Meydan and Nad Al Sheba. The traffic-free routes pass palm trees, serene neighbourhoods and offer stunning views of Dubai’s cityscape, perfect for beginners, casual runners or anyone looking to push their limits.
Where: Start/finish near Meydan Hotel, Dubai. Location map available at premieronline.com
When: Sunday, May 24, from 6am
Cost: From Dhs125
Contact & registration: premieronline.com
R is for RTT Therapy (Rapid Transformational Therapy)
RTT is a powerful, award-winning method that blends hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, NLP and cognitive behavioural techniques to access the subconscious – where most beliefs, emotional patterns and behaviours are formed. By uncovering the root causes of anxiety, overthinking, emotional eating, fears or confidence issues, RTT reframes and releases patterns at their source, with results often felt within just 1-3 sessions. Not always easy, but often worthwhile.
Where: Online sessions
Contact & registration: @freetheroot.byrazan
T is for traditional hammam
A traditional hammam is a deeply cleansing and rejuvenating ritual, perfect for detoxifying the skin, improving circulation, and leaving your body and mind refreshed. At Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental, try the Oriental Rose Hammam – a rose-petal ritual with fresh rose & lavender black soap, Kessa exfoliation, and rose rhassoul for body and hair. It finishes with a rose rinse, argan & Oud oil, and rose quartz for balance.
Where: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
Cost: 60 min, Dhs850
Contact: mandarinoriental.com
U is for unwind… at a daycation
Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is step away completely. No schedule, no rush – just a full day of doing very little, properly. Start with a spa treatment, enjoy a nourishing meal, then sink into a sunbed by the beach with the sound of waves and warm sunshine all around. For a day like this, head to Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, where you can enjoy the full experience. Where: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa, Pearl Jumeira, Dubai Cost: Dhs499 includes a massage treatment, full access to pool & beach, an ice bath session, and a two-course lunch at Café Nikki. Contact: @nikkibeachresortdubai
V is for Vinyasa
If you prefer movement over stillness, this is where yoga feels more fluid. Wake up with energy at Aura Skypool with a Power Vinyasa session designed to get your body moving and your mind centred. The class blends breathwork, mindful flow and dynamic poses to help you build strength, increase flexibility and start the day feeling focused and balanced.
Where: Aura Skypool, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
When: Daily, 7-8am
Cost: Dhs250 includes 60-minute class, welcome wellness shot, Aura yoga mat & towel, water bottle & infused water to take home, and gourmet breakfast.
Contact: @auraskypool.dubai
X is for X Fitness
If you prefer to work out at home, creating your own setup can make all the difference. X Fitness is a go-to for building a space that works for you, whether you’re starting small or going all in. From smart training equipment to strength gear and recovery tools, it’s everything you need to stay active without leaving the house.
Where: X Fitness, Al Shamsi Building, Near Lamcy Karama, Dubai
Contact: @xfitness.me
W is for water sports
Not every workout needs to feel structured. Out on the water, it’s just movement, balance and a bit of adrenaline – whether you’re gliding across calm waters in a kayak, bouncing along on a banana boat, soaring high with parasailing, zipping along the coastline on a jet-ski, or catching waves while surfing, the options are as endless as the ocean views. These activities are not only energising but also a great way to stay active and connect with nature.
Where: Sea Life Watersports
Dubai, Dubai International Marine Club, Dubai
Contact: @sealifedubai
Y is for Yin Yoga
Slow, still and surprisingly challenging in its own way. Holding poses for longer forces you to sit with the discomfort – and eventually move through it.
Where: Zen Yoga
Dubai, Jumeirah Park East Centre, Dubai Retail
Contact: @zenyogadubai
Z is for Zen moments anywhere
Not everything needs to be scheduled. A quiet walk, a few minutes of stillness, even a pause between tasks – it all counts. Sometimes the smallest resets are the ones you actually stick to.
TRIED & TESTED
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Downtown
A thoughtfully designed spa where tailored treatments and a slower pace do all the work
WORDS: LANA DU
You step out of the lift expecting the usual spa calm, but this feels different. Darker, quieter, more cocooned from the city below.
High above Sheikh Zayed Road, the space leans into low lighting and soft, muted tones, creating an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down almost immediately. The treatment rooms are positioned to follow the light – east-facing for softer, energising mornings, west-facing for slower, more restorative evenings. It’s subtle, but it works.
Nothing feels overdesigned or showy. Just considered, and intentionally calm.
The treatment
What makes the experience here stand out is how tailored it feels from the start. Before anything begins, you sit down with your therapist to talk through exactly what your body needs that day – tight shoulders, low energy, general fatigue – and the treatment is adjusted accordingly.
The Organics Signature Bioenergetic Aromatherapy Massage is a strong place to start if you’re unsure. The pressure builds gradually, never abrupt, working deeper into tension without feeling overly intense.
At some point, you realise you’ve stopped thinking about anything else.
If you ask, elements of Thai technique can be worked in – stretching, acupressure, a bit more movement through the body – which adds variety and gets into areas that standard massage can miss. It feels intuitive rather than routine.
The facilities
The vitality pool is the standout. Set against a full city view, it’s warm, quiet, and easy to lose time in. Hydrotherapy jets working steadily in the background while everything else fades out
The rest of the space supports that same feeling. A steam room that softens the air and opens everything up, an infrared sauna that settles deeper into
tired muscles, and treatment rooms that feel deliberately uncluttered – nothing competing for your attention.
There’s also a fitness studio, brighter and more open, with soft stone finishes that make it feel far removed from a typical gym. Outside, a rooftop terrace and pool overlook both the ocean and the skyline, with Noia by the Pool just steps away if you want to extend the experience into something more social.
The experience
There’s no friction here. No waiting around, no over-explaining – everything moves quietly, exactly when it should.
The team are warm without being overbearing, and the whole experience feels smooth from start to finish. You switch off quickly – not because you’re told to, but because there’s nothing pulling your attention elsewhere.
By the time you leave, it’s noticeable. Clear head, lighter body, and no real urge to rush back into the day.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Not the flashiest spa in the city, but easily one of the most considered. Everything feels intentional, from the lighting to the treatments to the pace of the experience. It delivers what you want from a luxury spa in Dubai, without overcomplicating it. You leave feeling reset – and already thinking about when you’ll come back.
Signature Bioenergetic Aromatherapy Massage, priced at Dhs750
Contact: (04) 777 8888; mandarinoriental.com
DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS
There’s a quiet truth circulating among the UAE’s residents: right now couldn’t be a better time for a staycation. With international visitor numbers down, hotels that would normally require early booking and a small miracle are suddenly dangling room upgrades, redeemable credits and late checkouts. The pool is less crowded. The brunch has more seats. The complementary beach cabana is waiting for you. Seize the moment, because it won’t last.
RESIDENT Perks
The UAE’s hotel scene is pulling out all the stops for residents – these are the May deals worth checking out
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
MARRIOTT RESORT PALM JUMEIRAH
Ideal for: Families, spa stays.
Price: From AED 749 / night
Important bits: Dhs500 daily resort credit | 10am check-in / 6pm checkout | Private beach cabana | Kids’ club access
The sprawling Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah is fully leaning into its beachfront credentials with The Palm Escape. It leads strong: a Dhs500 daily resort credit to spend across restaurants, bars or at Saray Spa, depending on whether you’re in the mood to indulge or switch off entirely. Sea View rooms put you right on the edge of it all, opening onto the beach and pool, with private cabana access and solid family perks (Kids’ Club and Teen Room included). Another flex? A 10am check-in and 6pm checkout, which promises a full, unhurried day, rather than the usual blink-and-it’s-over hotel experience. Tel: (0)4 666 1111. @marriottresortpalmjumeirah
Marriott Resort Palm
Jumeirah
ATLANTIS THE ROYAL
Ideal for: A rare one-night stay at one of Dubai’s most talked-about resorts.
Price: Dhs1,616 per night
Important bits: Breakfast | Daily access to Nobu By The Beach Pool | Unlimited access to the waterpark | Access to The Lost World Aquarium
An extraordinary one for Dubai staycations: the Atlantis UAE Resident Offer is running until May 22, with 25 per cent off stays across rooms, suites and signature penthouses, and, unusually for Atlantis The Royal, the option to book just one night. Book direct and the extras are solid: complementary access to Aquaventure World and The Lost Chambers Aquarium, plus preferential rates on dining and wellness. It’s a limited-time window to experience one of Dubai’s most talked-about resorts at a more accessible price point, and, with some dirhams saved, a good excuse to book into Estiatorio Milos, Ling Ling or Carbone while you’re there.
Tel: (0)4 426 0000. @atlantistheroyal
W DUBAI – THE PALM
Ideal for: The brunch loyalists.
Price: From Dhs573 per night
Important bits: Brunch for two | 11am check-in / 6pm checkout | 20 per cent off spa & dining | Pool & beach access
If your idea of a perfect Saturday involves an unhurried morning on a private beach followed by one of the city’s top brunches, W Dubai – The palm has quietly assembled the optimal package. The anchor is a Saturday session at Akira Back Dubai, bold JapaneseKorean flavours, unlimited dishes, curated drinks, Candy Pants-led – running from 1pm to 4.30pm. Before and after, there’s the WET Deck, the pool, and the beach. The 11am checkin and 6pm checkout mean you’re not racing anywhere.
Tel: (0)4 245 5555. @wdubaipalm
HILTON DUBAI THE WALK
Ideal for: A beachfront family break where kids stay and dine free.
Price: From Dhs460 per night
Important bits: Kids under 18 stay and dine free | Breakfast and dinner included
A straightforward, value-led staycation right on the beach at JBR, built for families who want everything in one place. Kids under 18 stay and dine free, making it one of the more compelling family offers in Dubai right now, with both breakfast and dinner included for all guests. The setting does most of the work here with direct beach access, easy downtime, and plenty nearby if you do decide to step out.
Tel: (0)4 374 7999. @hiltondubai
MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOWNTOWN DUBAI
Ideal for: City-dwellers ho want urban luxury.
Price: From Dhs1,152 per night
Important bits: 20 per cent off stay rate | Free upgrade | Beach access included | 12pm check-in / 4pm checkout
One of the city’s most talked-about arrivals, Mandarin Oriental, Downtown Dubai landed late last year with serious presence – all sculptural curves and sky-high views. Set inside the twisting silhouette of Wasl Tower, it’s typically a stay reserved for special occasions or tourists with deep pockets. For now, though, it’s playing differently. The Meaningful Pause package strips away some of that barrier to entry with 20 per cent off the best available rate, a complementary upgrade, daily breakfast, flexible check-in from noon and checkout until 4pm, plus beach access at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira. Add in spa and dining savings, and it’s a fabulous option for anyone craving something elevated, without fully leaving the city behind.
Tel: (0)4 777 8888. @mo_downtowndubai
THE ABU DHABI EDITION
Ideal for: A classy family stay.
Price: From Dhs900 per night
Important bits: Breakfast for two adults and two children | 25 per cent off spa treatments | Two pieces of laundry
A calm, design-led staycation in the heart of the city. The 24-hour stay concept at The Abu Dhabi EDITION means you arrive and leave on your own schedule. Mornings start with breakfast at Market at EDITION, included for two adults and two children, while the rest of the day can drift between the pool, spa and waterfront setting. With added touches like spa savings, laundry and possible upgrades, it’s an easy, well-priced reset. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @abudhabiedition
CROWNE PLAZA ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND
Ideal for: Theme park fun.
Price: From Dhs852 per night
Important bits: Free Yas Express Shuttle | Theme park tickets | Breakfast Yas Island’s Stay and Play packages are a strong option for a family staycation, pairing a hotel stay with access to one of the island’s major theme parks, including Ferrari World Yas Island, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Yas Island or SeaWorld Yas Island. Most of the parks are indoor or partially climate-controlled, making them ideal year-round and especially useful in the UAE heat, with plenty of rides and attractions designed to keep kids entertained all day. Several Yas Island hotels offer Stay and Play deals, but Crowne Plaza is often one of the most competitively priced, making it a practical way to bundle accommodation and theme park access into a single, easy family break.
Tel: (0)2 656 3000. @crowneplazayasisland
ANANTARA SIR BANI YAS ISLAND
Ideal for: Nature seekers.
Price: From Dhs595 per night
Important bits: Wildlife drives included | Daily breakfast | Children stay free | Late checkout
Two and a half hours’ drive from Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas island is home to one of the region’s most significant wildlife reserves (giraffes, Arabian oryx, gazelles roaming freely) and three distinct resorts. The Island Discovery staycation layers wildlife drives, cultural excursions and coastal stillness into a break that is genuinely hard to replicate elsewhere. Of the three resorts, Desert Islands Resort & Spa offers a coastal base overlooking the Arabian Gulf, and is the most competitively priced of the trio. Children stay complementary, making it an easy win for families.
Tel: (0)2 801 5400. @anantarasirbaniyas
QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA
Ideal for: Remote workers, families, and pets.
Price: From Dhs1,080 per night
Important bits: Pet-friendly | Kids’ club included | Up to 40 per cent off villas | Minimum three nights
Ninety minutes from Abu Dhabi and approximately a world away from your troubles, Qasr Al Sarab sits deep in the Rub’ al Khali. The Desert Workcation Retreat is built for longer stays: reliable connectivity, in-room or villa work setups, access to meeting facilities, unlimited coffee, and complementary printing, so the practical side is handled. Children get supervised Kids’ Club sessions with curated activities. Pets are welcome. When the laptop closes, there are dune drives, camel trekking, and the particular satisfaction of doing absolutely nothing while staring at a very large, very empty desert. Discounts run up to 30 per cent on rooms and 40 per cent on villas. Tel: (0)2 886 2088. @anantaraqasralsarab
JA OCEAN VIEW HOTEL
Ideal for: The commitment-friendly or long-stay experimenters.
Price: From Dhs5,000 per month
Important bits: 25 per cent off all dining | Weekly padel | Pool & gym access | 30 per cent off laundry
Caught between leases, or holding out to see what the rental market does post-summer? This is your soft landing. JA Ocean View Hotel’s monthly stays won’t necessarily win the rent-vs-hotel debate outright, but it makes a strong, low-commitment case. You get uninterrupted Gulf views, 25 per cent off all restaurants, weekly padel, and full access to the gym and pool. There’s also 30 per cent off laundry. It’s an easy, no-fuss setup in JBR.
Tel: (0)4 814 5599. @jaoceanviewhotel
RADISSON BLU RESORT, FUJAIRAH
Ideal for: The value-hunters who still want a proper resort feel.
Price: Dhs399 per night
Important bits: Fully redeemable dining credit | Room upgrade included | 3pm late checkout | Pet-friendly
At Dhs399 a night with the full room rate returned as dining credit, this is about as close as the staycation market gets to a free hotel stay. The credit covers breakfast, lunch, or dinner, meaning those who play it right will eat very well and technically spend nothing on the room itself. Add a room upgrade, a 24-hour stay window, a 3pm late checkout, and free pet stays, and Radisson Fujairah has assembled a brilliant offer for anyone who wants a proper escape without the theatre of it. The East Coast setting –calmer, greener, quieter than Dubai – is, frankly, underrated. Tel: (0)9 204 3100. @radissonblu.fujairah
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Ja Ocean View Hotel
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
The family day out that doesn’t feel like a compromise
WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE
There’s a particular kind of exhaustion that comes with a “relaxing day” at a waterpark. It usually sets in around hour two (sometimes sooner if the little ones are in one of their moods). The queues, the noise, the chaos of it all. You love your children, but this is not always the most relaxing of days on the weekend. You just sometimes wish a family day out didn’t have to feel like crowd management with sunscreen.
The Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach offers an alternative family day out by the water that remedies the above scenario. Set among lush gardens along a pristine stretch of the Arabian Gulf, it’s a property that has thought hard about what families actually need – and arrived at a solution that doesn’t require sacrificing the adults entirely in the process. The key detail: separate pool areas for families and grownups. It sounds like a small thing. It isn’t.
THE DAY
The resort’s relaxed pace is most welcome. Lush, well-maintained grounds give way to a picture-perfect beach that instantly starts to divide your time up in your head – where to first, when to change, when to revert. They’re the best kind of decisions.
The family pool is well set up for younger guests – plenty of shallow space (though sufficiently deeper for older kids as the pool stretches towards the direction of the beach), safe and animated enough to keep all children happy – while the adults-only pool sits round the corner. Just far enough to muffle out the excited noises coming from the kids’ pool. This means – as we find on our day – a parent can take a turn in the calm while the other manages the shallow end, and neither feels like they’ve drawn the short straw. That balance is, genuinely, rare.
The beach itself is a drawcard. Wide, well-managed, and giving out onto the Gulf with something approaching serenity, it earns its reputation through repeat visits rather than Instagram moments – though it manages those, too. There’s a settled quality here, a sense that the staff know what a family day looks like and have quietly ensured everything is where it needs to be.
THE FOOD
This is where the Four Seasons earns particular credit with parents. A kids’ buffet at Dhs150 means younger guests eat freely and happily – no negotiating over menus and no small person rejecting
something that took 20 minutes to order. While they’re sorted, the poolside menu handles the adults with an extensive selection that runs well beyond the expected. The tuna poke bowl and steak sandwich are standouts and the attentive poolside service means drinks and food arrive without anyone having to abandon their sunlounger, or, for those wanting to really settle in for the day with comfort and luxury, a poolside cabana. The latter is highly recommended. It is, frankly, one of the more civilised arrangements in the city.
STAYING OVER?
This is a truly restorative daycation option, but for those wanting to extend the day, the resort’s rooms bring the same considered approach. Gardens, private pools, and a spa make for a staycation where the day that was awaits you again in the morning…
GOOD TO KNOW (CURRENT STANDOUT OFFERS)
Day Escape Pass: Dhs500 per person (fully redeemable on F&B; pool and beach access, 20% off spa and padel).
Day Retreat Pass: Dhs800 per person (gym access, 60-minute massage, pool and beach access, Dhs150 F&B credit).
Oasis Day Pass: Dhs3,500 per couple (private cabana, breakfast, Champagne, Dhs500 F&B credit, pool and beach access).
