What's On Dubai-February 2026

LUXURY MEETS TRADITION

Discover a peaceful retreat where luxury and tradition create the perfect Ramadan experience. Create lasting memories with family and friends at Aspen Ski Chalet.

VERA VERSILIA NEW CULINARY GEM

Inspired by the sun-soaked charm of Tuscany’s northern coastline, Vera brings the essence of Versilia to the table with contemporary finesse.

AT KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES

Indulge in an unforgettable family-friendly staycation featuring luxurious amenities, exquisite dining experiences, and unique moments of relaxation tailored just for you.

For booking, please call +971 4 341 0000 or email reservations.malloftheemirates@kempinski.com

Scan the QR Code to know more

22 HIGHLY RATED ALTERNATIVE DATES

Our collection of Valentine’s plans that dare you to say ’I do’

26 KUNG HEI FAT CHOI Khalas Year of the Snake, and marhaba Year of the Fire Horse at these Dubai dining destinations

38 TASTE MAKERS

We look at the flavour profiles from one of the city’s favourite alfresco food festivals, Taste of Dubai

Page 50

Why Jimmy Carr is the ultimate comedy vehicle

WhatsOn.ae

10 WHAT’S ON LOVES

Just a few of things that make us feel whole

12 YALLA!

February’s essential Dubai dates for your diary

REGULARS 28

CONSUME

30 INTO AFRICA

Savryn is taking up the mantle of repping food from across the continent of Africa, but is there heart in the art of their plates?

31 NONNA YOUR BUSINESS

The real Italian grandmas of Kempinski crew the kitchen at this new eatery. But is Mamabella a gimmick or masterstroke? Our review sets the rigatoni straight

40 WONKA-TASTIC

There’s more to Dubai chocolate than knafeh. Get your cocoa fix from these locally based choclartisans

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

51 BIG IN THE 80S

Big hair, big shoulder pads, and big tunes. REW!ND Fest’s generational “inixtape is a big deal for Dubai’s retro” music fans

52 SCENE-STEALING

When the shoot location is the real star. These are the biggest box o ce bangers in the UAE’s filmography

58 WELL WELL WELL

Wellness spots to sync you heart, mind, body, soul and IG posts

68 2026’S BEST EXPERIENCES

Take your travel experiences to the next level this year with paths a little less trodden

What’s On Digital Your essential guide to what’s happening in Dubai is also available on the App Store.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne

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

EDITORIAL

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

ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES EDITOR Aarti Saundalkar

FEATURES EDITOR, ABU DHABI Leonie Wagner

SENIOR ONLINE REPORTER Jumira Hancock

REPORTER Lana Du

ONLINE REPORTER Afrah Bari

ONLINE REPORTER Rasha Hassan

JUNIOR REPORTER Sammi Barnard

CONTRIBUTORS Alice Holtham-Pargin, Laura Coughlin, Miles Buckeridge, Rob Chiton

DESIGN

ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza

COMMERCIAL

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

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

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

PRODUCTION

GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar

PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran

ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Venita Pinto

WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

CREATIVE STUDIO

CONTENT PRODUCTION MANAGER Surajit Dutta

CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Mark Mathew

CONTENT PRODUCER/STUDIO MANAGER John Melencion

CREATIVE CONTENT PRODUCER Ekaterina Shirshova

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

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Iftar at Origins

Venue: Origins, Vida Emirates Hills

Time: Throughout Ramadan, sunset to 8.30pm

Prices starting from AED 215 per person

HERE FOR THE GOOD STUFF

February always feels a little different. After the optimism and momentum of January, it tends to be a quieter month – one that invites a slower pace and a bit more reflection.

Maybe it’s the natural comedown after a new year, or simply the moment we stop looking so far ahead and start checking in with ourselves. Either way, February often feels like a time to lean inward and focus on the things that genuinely make us feel good.

That’s very much the spirit of this issue. From comforting food and calming spaces to experiences that encourage

balance, connection and self-care, we’ve focused on the small but meaningful ways we find joy in everyday life here.

Whether it’s a restaurant that lifts your mood, a place that helps you slow down, or an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, we hope these pages help you discover moments that matter throughout the month.

Here’s to February – and feeling good, in every sense.

This month’s shout-out

“Recently, the team have been comparing dinner-and-a-show notes, but for me there is only one: Gatsby Dubai. A late-night, high-glam evening straight out of a 1920s fever dream – think velvet interiors, moody lighting, feathery, sparkling outfits, voices that give us chills, and dance moves that leave us stunned. The whole room is pure magic. Maybe our deeper obsession isn’t just the show, but living in that glittery fantasy world… even for a just few hours.” – Lana Du, Reporter

TEAM’S POV

We answer the questions you didn’t even ask.

Where’s

your favourite romantic date spots?

Sammi Barnard Junior Reporter

“I’m more of a stay-at-home, cook a meal and light candles kind of girl… but if we’re going out, it has to be sky-high and seriously special. Fine-dining with a view is instant romance for me – Mott 32 might just be my favourite.” @mott32dubai

Laura Coughlin

Contributing Editor

“I don’t think you can beat Honeycomb Hi-Fi. Great music, dim lights and a cosy booth.” @honeycombhifi

Alice HolthamPargin Contributing Editor

“Alici on Bluewaters. I got married in Italy, so Italian restaurants always remind me of our wedding, and none more so than this one, where the food, service and setting are pure Dolce Vita vibes.” @alicidubai

WHAT’S ON POV… THIS MONTH

Life is busy, life is fast. And sometimes, life can be stressful. Here, the team share the thing(s) they do to instantly feel better

Cuddlingwith mytwocats

There’s just something about having animals at home – they bring so much comfort and calm. No matter what’s going on, they have a magical way of making everything feel okay again.

Sammi

Barnard Junior Reporter

openSpendingtimeinnaturalspaces orquietbeachspots

myPlanning travelsfuture

I love mapping out every detail – the best times to visit, how to get between attractions, what to see, and even the souvenirs to bring home. It helps give me something to look forward to.

Aarti Saundalkar Arts and Culture Features Editor

Music

A great playlist is my therapy. At the moment, that usually involves at least one Olivia Dean track.

Alice Holtham-Pargin

Contributing Editor

Booking a vacation

Whenever I book a vacation it changes my mood in a second. One click and I am already mentally there!

Violeta Popescu

Commercial Director

timeSpending withthekids

Spending time in open natural spaces or quiet beach spots. I like putting some music on and switching everything else off. Peaceful places like Sunset Beach or Al Barari, with all its greenery and nature, always makes me feel instantly better.

Ali Mohammad Senior Sales Executive

This is going to sound a bit cliché, but it’s spending time with the kids. Being dad shifts my focus to what really matters… except when they’re hangry and irritable, then it’s hitting some golf balls at the driving range. Very therapeutic.

Thomas Woodgate Group Content Director

Gratitude

Gratitude – a quiet habit I’ve grown into. The more I practice it, the calmer, clearer and healthier I feel. It reshapes my perspective, like a subtle power beneath the surface.

Lana Du Reporter

REW!ND FEST

DXB 2026

When: 7 February 2026

Get ready to dance and sing along at Dubai’s ultimate retro music festival, REW!ND Fest, returning for its fourth year at Bla Bla Dubai. Celebrate the 80s and 90s with a lineup of iconic artists including Marc Almond, Nik Kershaw, Soul II Soul, Heaven 17, Go West, Jason Donovan, The Real Thing, Cutting Crew, Toyah, and Disco Inferno. With continuous music from 12pm.

Tickets: From Dhs395 @rewindfestdxb

Read more about Rewind Fest DXB on page 51.

YALLA

THE EVENTS WE’RE EXCITED ABOUT IN FEBRUARY

WORDS: SAMMI BARNARD

BURJ2BURJ HALF MARATHON

When: 8 February 2026

Lace up for a 21.1km run from the towering Burj Khalifa to the magnificent Burj Al Arab in the Burj2Burj Half Marathon. Enjoy live music, cheering crowds and unbeatable cityscape views along the route, then celebrate at the finisher’s park. Suitable for runners aged 16 and above. @burj2burj

JIMMY CARR LIVE

When: 21 February 2026, 6:30pm and 9:30pm

Join comedy’s sharpest mind at Dubai Opera as Jimmy Carr returns with his stand-up show Laughs Funny. Known for his quick-fire jokes, cheeky charm and clever observations, Carr delivers a night of outrageous humour. With a career spanning over two decades and acclaimed live performances worldwide, this is your chance to see one of the UK’s most celebrated comedians live in action.

Tickets: From Dhs250 @dubaiopera

TASTE OF DUBAI 2026

When: 6 to 8 February 2026

Taste the city’s top flavours at Dubai’s leading food, drink and music festival. Over three unforgettable days at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, enjoy taster-sized dishes from 16 of Dubai’s best restaurants, attend free workshops with celebrity chefs and upgrade your experience with VIP access, fast-track entry and exclusive entertainment. There’s non-stop music from DJs and live bands, plus a vibrant market of artisan producers, brands and interactive activations to explore.

Tickets: From Dhs80

@tasteofdubai

Read more about Taste of Dubai on page 38.

BOHEMIA PRESENTS JOSH BAKER

When: 7 February 2026, 6pm Josh Baker brings his vibes to Bohemia at Five Palm Jumeirah for a vibrant beachfront night of rhythm, warmth and movement. Known for hits like You Don’t Own Me with Prospa and RAHH, he’s joined by DiOSA and Quilliam, who add their own dynamic energy to the decks. From sunset into late-night.

Tickets: From Dhs100

@bohemiafivedubai

THE LAUGHTER FACTORY

When: 14 February 2026

Catch world-class stand-up at Dukes, The Palm, Dubai, with The Laughter Factory’s February show. Leading the line-up is UK comedian Paul Tonkinson, known for his infectious energy, perfect impressions and crowd-pleasing storytelling, joined by Pierre Hollins and Dubai-based rising star Liz Bains. After the laughs, stay for the relaxed after-party to mingle, chat and meet the comedians – a unique chance to connect with fellow comedy lovers.

Tickets: From Dhs140 @thelaughterfactory

DUBAI POLO GOLD CUP 2026

When: 14 February 2026

Experience the grand finale of the 17th Dubai Polo Gold Cup at Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. Six elite teams will compete for the coveted Dubai Open title, while guests enjoy live entertainment including cheerleaders, a flag parade, the Dubai Mounted Police Marching Band and an LED/laser show. Relax in the picnic area, watch a fashion show at the Gold Lounge, indulge at the food truck corner and end the day with spectacular fireworks and an after-party, all amidst a glamorous, world-class sporting atmosphere.

Tickets: From Dhs195 @alhabtoorpolo

GOOD, CLEAN, WHOLESOME VIBES ONLY

WORDS:

MILES BUCKERIDGE

People think they know Dubai. A city often presented as the poster boy for skyspearing luxury and future-proof urban glamour. But beyond its gold-paved streets lays a treasure infinitely more sublime. The real Dubai is built from bones seeped in culture, is framed by otherworldly vistas and offers adventures that speak directly to your soul.

And because this February we’ll be able to celebrate both the introspective wonder of Ramadan and the ode to interconnectedness that is Valentine’s Day – there really is no better time to dig down to our city’s truest, most authentic self. This is our guide to straying beyond the shallows, to seeking inner peace and just generally feeling good in February.

Valentine’s Day is just another day right? A commercial ploy for restaurants to hock burrata on oversized, heartshaped, set menus? But dates don’t have to be like that. We’re on team ‘do something different’. Essence-tapping, spirit-nurturing fun. Dates you can do with your people, whether that’s a partner, a mate or a full family unit. All you need is love. And perhaps a quick Apple Pay tap.

Into the fire

They say that ‘food is the quickest way to the heart’. Fundamental misunderstanding of the human digestive system aside, the start of this path can be found, appropriately enough, in the heart of Old Dubai. Frying Pan Adventures offer palate-led safaris through the flavour highlands of real hidden gems. From Dhs435 per person, you’ll explore some of the city’s best-kept secret dishes and hear spicy tales of Dubai’s formative years. Various locations. Tel: (0)56 4718 244. fryingpanadventures.com

Cruising for amusing

Nara is probably best known for its chic, boutique desert camps, but their latest venture swaps out sand for surf. Lady Nara is a modern homage to the traditional Arabian Dhow and offers sophisticated sunset spins (with soft drinks and Mediterraneanand Emirati-inspired canapes) past the collected ‘best of’ landmarks on the Business Bay Creek. Like the ship itself, the shoreline scenery blends worlds old and new, leaving you to soak up timeless golden hour views. Festival City Waterfront, daily 5pm to 8pm, Dhs330 (Valentine’s dinner package Dhs490). Tel: (0)50 336 7909. nara.ae

Just deserts

The Arabian desert has played muse to stories of romance and whimsy for millennia. It’s a beguiling land of shifting sands, granular romance and unyielding horizon. And one of the most cost-effective ways we’ve found of experiencing an ‘enhanced version’ of it, alongside a barbecue dinner, theatrical fire shows, sandboarding and camel rides, is at The Fort Lisaili. All this for just Dhs100. Lisaili, Al Qudra, 4pm to 8.30pm. arabian-adventures.com

Picture this

You never get a second chance to make a good first impressionist painting. So you might want to brush up on your art skills before heading to this alternative arty date night experience at thejamjar, Alserkal Avenue. They offer weekly group workshop sessions (from around Dhs120) allowing you to truly show off your creative side. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, Sat to Thurs 10am to 7pm, Fri 10am to 8pm. Tel: (0)4 341 7303. thejamjardubai.com

Love, laugh, live on stage

Endorphin, dopamine and oxytocin walk into a bar. It’s no joke. These are the three ‘feelgood’ neurotransmitters that are associated with laughter. And if there’s a spiritual home of LOL in the UAE, it’s The Laughter Factory. The Gulf’s oldest comedy night, typically consisting of a trio of wandering comics plying their puns (Feb’s show includes Pierre Hollins, Paul Tonkinson and homegrown hero Liz Bainz) on the stage of various UAE venues. Multiple locations, Feb 6 to 14, tickets from Dhs160. thelaughterfactory.com

Curtain call

Alserkal’s Cinema Akil is no ordinary picture house. This tribute to the golden age of film is a big screen retro vibe hive with plush sofa seating and carefully curated programmes of art-house cinema, indie classics and politically charged drama. There’s also a seasonal alfresco location at 25Hours Hotel in Once Central. Both truly represent the ultimate date for consummate cinephiles.

Alserakal Avenue, Al Quoz, Tue to Fri 4pm to 11pm, Sat and Sun, 2pm to 11pm, from Dhs50. cinemaakil.com

LOVE DON’T COST A THING

Extravagant gestures are overrated. It’s the thought that counts right? The company you keep that’s important. So here are our top picks for Dubai dates that come without a price tag. Take a Jumeirah Beach walk, run at Kite Beach, or cycle at Meydan, explore the galleries of Alserkal, enjoy a free (daily) water and light show at Festival Bay (from 6pm), camp in the lullaby locale of Al Qudra’s Love Lakes, or start a new chapter of your relationship story with a reading date at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library.

The Holy Month of Ramadan brings with it the opportunity to refocus. To meditate on our priorities and to deepen connection with those closest to us. It’s a time that invites us to count our blessings, to honour the past and to reach out to those in need. If you’d like to join us on this inward journey, we’ve put together some of our favourite ways to tap the cultural roots of the city and celebrate the deeper side of Dubai.

Old and gold

Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical District offers a glimpse into (a partly reconstructed) Old Dubai. Within its fold, a citadel of charismatic alleyways, galleries and museums awaits. Take tea in the courtyard of the XVA Art Hotel, explore the creative spoils of the Majlis Gallery, then make your way to the water’s edge for an abra ride over the Creek (Dhs2) to explore the souk district. Arriving into the Old Souq Marine Station you’re confronted with stalls and stores offering fragrant spices, glinting gold and assorted flashing, beeping, shrieking trinkets.

Park that thought

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 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

Glad Hatta

Not everyone is ready for Hatta. We’re talking about those committed to the idea that Dubai is just an extended skyscraper farm and manicured beach club. At a push, they may concede, there’s also desert. For these people Hatta’s verdant hills would be a red pill too bitter to swallow. It’s the adventure capital of the emirate, an enclave offering a dizzying spectrum of outdoor pursuits and fable-tier treks. It also houses Hatta Heritage Village, a free-toenter 3,000-year-old settlement with dwellings and evocative artefacts belonging to a bygone neolithic age.

@visithatta

Reaching an understanding

For a truly immersive dive into the threads of Emirati heritage, there are few places that operate on the level of The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (or SMCCU for those keen on brevity). Here you can speak directly with charismatic locals, learn traditional crafts, taste regional specialities and embark on special tours. For Ramadan, they offer a unique iftar experience (Dhs180) which includes a guided mosque visit, cultural talks and hands-on activities as well.

Musallah Road, Bastakiya, iftar daily throughout Ramadan from 6.30pm. Tel: (04) 353 6666. cultures.ae

Back to the future

‘Museum of the Future’ sounds like a physical impossibility. Which is fair enough because this structure, located by the World Trade Centre and previously described as ‘the most beautiful building in the world’, looks impossible. The 70 metre-tall occular edifice features a stunning facade of Arabic calligraphy, lines of poetry written by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum about the future of the city. Inside, it houses all things innovation – a flux capacitor tour through the Dubai of tomorrow where realistic video vignettes are spliced with assorted objets d’awe. Don’t miss the balcony viewing deck in the middle of the structure for an upclose view of the exterior. Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, 10am to 7.30pm, starts at Dhs169, Tel: (800) 2071. museumofthefuture.ae

You’ve been Framed

You can’t have missed it, this 150 metre tall gold structure cosplaying as a giant picture frame is clearly visible as you land at DXB airport. But what you might not realise is that inside the Dubai Frame hides a threezoned museum – with galleries illuminating the worlds of old Dubai, modern Dubai and a glimpse into future Dubai. There’s also a glass-floor walk (final boss for the acrophobic), a mesmerizing 360-degree tower-top view of the city’s stirring skyline and the botanical majesty of the Frame Garden.

Zabeel Park, Gate 4, daily 9am to 9pm, Dhs52.50. dubaiframe.ae

Jumeirah gem

The breathtaking Jumeirah Mosque first opened its doors in 1979 and was a gift to the emirate from the Late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, father of the current Ruler of Dubai, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Located in Jumeirah 1, the mosque is open to the public between 10am and 2pm every day except Fridays. You can take a story-spinning 75-minute tour through the architectural marvel for just Dhs35 per person, which includes light Emirati refreshments at the majlis before the program starts. Jumeirah 1. Sat to Thu 10am and 2pm, Dhs35. jumeirahmosque.ae

GIVING BACK

If acts of kindness are on your 2026 bingo card, there are some brilliant causes you can lend support to in Dubai. Al Noor (head office in Al Barsha) and Mawaheb are charities devoted to the care of children of determination; Emirates Red Crescent has volunteer placements for community outreach projects; K9 Friends needs helpers to look after their pack of abdandoned doggos; and Dubai Cares is always on the lookout for good humans to staff their varied, often lifesaving initiatives.

Sometimes you just need to touch grass. Taking a bold walk into nature, can recharge frazzled batteries and ground the frantic soul. Thankfully, we have plenty of soothing Yin space in Dubai to calm the fiery Yang of electric city pace. These are some of our favourite nature-frilled encounters you can enjoy right here - no bars, no cages, just open air and zero cares.

Blue Moon

This one is only for qualified members of the PADI party, aka experienced divers only. Moon Island sits off the coast of Dubai, around 70km away from the core of the city and serves up an experiential menu of rare diving delights. Join Sky and Sea Adventures Dubai (trips from Dhs550) for a sojourn under the sea, itinerary highlights may include but are not limited to barracudas, hammour and snappers. You can even arrange overnight camping trips (from Dhs1000) which tag on beach barbecues and desert island forever memories.

Pick up from Hilton - The Walk. watersportsdubai.com

Platinum membership

If you like your desert trips both intrepid and delivered with a touch of class, Platinum Heritage has a well-deserved reputation for providing sophisticated safaris. Leap into the back of a vintage 1950s Land Rover for a voyage into the sands of time. There you’ll meet the animal inhabitants of the desert, catch heritage displays of falconry and snap selfies with camels. If you want to set the bar even higher, Platinum Heritage’s sister company Hero Experiences offers hot-air balloon rides through the wild blue yonder. A quick round of spot the oryx is a lot more challenging whilst floating 4000 feet above the amber dunes, but it’s all the more rewarding. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, safaris from Dhs695, via uae.platinum-heritage.com Balloon rides from Dhs1,995 via uae.heroballoonflights.com

Give a Dam a go

We’ve already pushed our Hatta appreciation narrative earlier in this feature, but the Hatta Dam and Wadi Hub deserve their own stage. The pair of attractions sit flush against a rugged crop of Hajar Mountain peaks, with a chocolate box, duck-frequented lake that calmly demands you put down your karak and jump in a kayak (rental from Dhs60). Hatta Wadi Hub (individual activities from Dhs25, combo passes from Dhs169) offers such active outdoor attractions as archery, zip-lining and water zorbing, there’s an aerial rope course and a water slide (Dhs90) with a big air, Tony Hawk level, jump-off. We’re not done yet. Just a short drive away, you’ll find insight into the secret life of the insect world’s most industrious incidental sugar peddlers. Hatta Honey Bee Discovery Centre (Dhs50) will kit you out in full protective gear for a tour around some of the region’s most prolific hives. Finally, if you’re looking for a picturesque picnic spot, Hatta Hill Park delivers big on chequered cloth drop spotting.

@visithatta

Khor, what a stunner

Ras Al Khor is a literal desert oasis, located just a few minutes’ drive from Dubai Mall and contains 67 different species of bird within its green embrace. 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. dm.gov.ae

So Mush room for activities

Long time top pick for picnics, Dubai’s Mushrif Park is all about wide open spaces and ghaf tree-shaded places. The Park offers a 20km cycling loop and a 10km hike that winds through leafy canopy tunnels, striking sculptures and a finish line reward of Al Khawaneej Walk, a leisure space with Last Exit food trucks and shiny shopping detours. Aventura offers opportunities to scramble like a spider monkey, dangle from zip lines and work your way around challenging rope courses (from Dhs165). Far enough removed from city lights, Mushrif is well known for its winter star-gazing credentials and population of indigenous wildlife that make the perfect eye candy for I-spying ramblers. aventuraparks.com

Forget predictable plans – these alternative UAE-wide date ideas turn Valentine’s Day into something far more memorable

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

IF YOU’D NORMALLY DO FLOWERS, DINNER AND A MOVIE…

DRIFT THROUGH A MOVIE NIGHT

Umm Al Quwain

Popcorn at the ready, but leave the crowded cinema behind. At Floté Cinema in Umm Al Quwain, book a private boat for two for Dhs400 and drift beneath the stars while your favourite film flickers on the screen. Each boat accommodates only two, ensuring a secluded, romantic experience. The gentle lapping of the water, open sky, and exclusive setup make movie night magical – intimate and cinematic. Floté cinema, Machia Vellii, Umm Al Quwain mangroves. Tel: (0)55 200 3876. machiavellii.com

PICK YOUR OWN LOVE LANGUAGE

Ras Al Khaimah

Why buy flowers when you can make a day of choosing them together? Hidden in Wadi Asimah, the Emirati-owned UAE Flower Farm is a seasonal escape filled with more than 30,000 blooms, grown from seed and framed by sweeping Hajar Mountain views. Entry is just Dhs15, with pick-your-own stems priced at Dhs5 each. Add roaming animals, a small café and cooler mountain air, and it’s a quietly special way to slow down and leave with something truly meaningful. UAE Flower Farm, Ras Al Khaimah, daily 7am to 6pm (opens 1.30pm on Fridays). Tel: (0)55 992 3601. @uae_flower_farm

BREAKFAST WITH ELEPHANTS

Abu Dhabi

Take Valentine’s plans somewhere truly unexpected. At Emirates Park Zoo, breakfast comes with front-row access to gentle giants, as elephants wander nearby while you dine. Over 90 minutes, guests can feed the elephants, learn from expert handlers, and enjoy a breakfast that feels a world away from cafés and queues. Quirky and heartwarming, this is the kind of morning that turns a simple breakfast into a story you’ll tell for years. Emirates Park Zoo and Resort, Al Bahyah, 8am to 9.30am, Dhs262 per person. Tel: (0)2 501 0000. emiratesparkzooandresort.com

IF YOU WANT TO BE IN NATURE…

FALL FOR FARM LIFE

Al Ain

Swap polished plans for something refreshingly hands-on. Emirates Bio Farm offers tractor tours, vegetable picking and sunny corners for a relaxed lunch. Harvest produce together, wander the grounds and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors. It’s wholesome, grounding, and unexpectedly charming — proof that romance doesn’t always need candles to work. Emirates Bio Farm, Al Ain. Tel: (0)3 783 8422. emiratesbiofarm.com

CHASE THE STARS

Al Quaa

Stargazing is universally acknowledged as one of the world’s most romantic pursuits. Join the team at Arabian Wanderers, however, and you’ll head deep into the desert for a guided journey through the night sky at Al Quaa, the darkest spot in the UAE. Led by an expert astronomer, the experience includes telescopeled stargazing, constellations glittering overhead and the chance to witness meteor showers in near-total silence. A 4x4 ride delivers guests to a private, crowd-free desert camp, where a bonfire, games, and a top-notch BBQ dinner with drinks set the mood. Fully set up with tents, seating and facilities, spaces for February 14 is limited, so booking ahead is essential. @arabian.wanderers

RIDE THE TIDE

Ras Al Khaimah

At North Equestrian Club, couples can trot along the sand on gentle, welltrained horses. One hour is all it takes to feel completely in nature, trading noise and screens for open skies and salt air. Afterwards, wander into North Café, a real hidden gem in the emirate, overlooking the stables and serving speciality coffees, fine teas, hot brekkies and freshly baked treats. It’s relaxed and refreshingly low-key, offering an easy opportunity to reconnect and enjoy each other’s company without trying too hard.

North Equestrian Club and North Cafe, Dahaisah Street, Ras Al Khaimah, riding sessions from Dhs200 per person. Tel: (0)50 999 9999. @northcafe.uae

IF

ESCAPE TO THE MANGROVES

Umm Al Quwain

For couples craving nature without sacrificing comfort, Casa Mikoko delivers a staycation that feels quietly special. Tucked deep within Umm Al Quwain’s mangroves, this Zanzibar-inspired hideaway offers just five private chalets, each overlooking calm, glassy waters that set the tone for a slower pace. Inside, expect thoughtful luxuries from cosy interiors and in-room coffee bars to private plunge pools in select chalets. Mornings begin with floating breakfasts and days drift by to the sound of water and birdsong. It’s an intimate escape designed for switching off and spending uninterrupted time together, proof that the most memorable Valentine’s plans don’t need grand gestures, just the right setting.

Casa Mikoko, Khor Al Yeefrah, Umm Al Quwain, rooms from Dhs1,863 per night. Tel: (0)55 812 3060. @casamikoko.ae

REV UP THE ROMANCE

Sharjah

Swap candlelit dinners for sand-spraying thrills with Zerzura experiences in Mleiha. Behind the wheel of a dune buggy, you and your date carve your own path through golden dunes, launching off crests like desert daredevils. The chaos is glorious, the adrenaline addictive. End the adventure under the stars with a rustic BBQ and mezze spread, minus the crowds and belly dancers — just you and your beloved, the desert and a little post-throttle bliss. It’s not the cheapest way to spend an evening (from Dhs3,400 for two guests, including a private dinner), but it’s one of the most memorable. @zerzuraexperiences

HIT TOP SPEED

Abu Dhabi

Fuel your love on the fast track. At Yas Marina Circuit, you can get behind the wheel of a V6 Jaguar Cosworth and scream around a racetrack like you’re auditioning for F1. Adrenaline spikes, engines roar and your date might just fall in love with your need for speed. Think of it as highoctane romance — racing side-by-side beats hand-holding any day. Helmets on, hearts racing. Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, from Dhs1,490. Tel: (0)2 497 9000. yasmarinacircuit.com

IF YOU WANT SOME PLAYFUL FUN…

ROCK THEIR WORLD

Abu Dhabi

Get vertical and personal at Clymb. The UAE’s top rock-climbing centre offers boulders that challenge without terrorising, perfect for couples who want to cheer each other on. Climbing together is equal parts fun, sweaty and surprisingly intimate... helping each other up walls has a strangely romantic rhythm. Bonus: you get bragging rights without attempting the world’s tallest wall. Just two climbers, a bit of chalk and plenty of laughs.

Clymb Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Mon to Thur noon to 9pm, Fri noon to 10pm, Sat and Sun 11am to 10pm. Tel: (600) 511115. clymbabudhabi.com

BREAK OUT TOGETHER

Sharjah

DIVE FOR TREASURE

Ras Al Khaimah

For a Valentine’s experience rooted in heritage rather than grand gestures, Suwaidi Pearl Farm offers something genuinely memorable. Set against the Hajar Mountains in Ras Al Khaimah, this familyrun farm invites visitors to step into the world of traditional Emirati pearling, once the backbone of the region’s economy. Guided tours explore the life of the pearl diver, the artistry behind harvesting pearls, and the history that shaped the UAE’s coastal communities. The highlight? The chance to open an oyster yourself and possibly uncover a pearl to gift on the spot. @suwaidi_camp

If sitting opposite each other over coffee feels a little too safe, Prison Island in Sharjah offers a far more entertaining way to test your dynamic. Located in Abu Dhabi Mall, this challenge-based experience locks you and your partner into a series of themed “cells,” each packed with physical puzzles, logic games and time-pressured tasks that demand teamwork. With 24 different rooms to tackle, it’s fast-paced, slightly chaotic and surprisingly revealing—in the best way. Expect problem-solving, plenty of laughs and the occasional friendly disagreement as you race against the clock. It’s playful, energising, and a great reminder that the best dates don’t always involve sitting still.

City Centre Al Zahira, Sharjah, Dhs129 per person (one hour), Dhs199 per person (90 min). Tel: (0)52 343 2660. prisonisland.ae

NEW YEAR CHINESE WHERE TO CELEBRATE

Restaurants to ring in the Year of the Horse with dim sum, Peking duck, lion dances and more

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

MEI

The new MEI restaurant in Jumeirah Mina Al Salam approaches Chinese New Year with a more modern, indulgent hand. The set menu opens lightly with mixed mushroom salad sharpened by aged vinegar, before moving into premium dim sum. The headline is a Peking duck designed for sharing, backed up by wokseared Guilin lobster and a lemon sea bass. Traditional performances rotate across the restaurant on February 16 and 17. MEI, Jumeirah Mina A Salam, Sun to Thur noon to 1am, Fri and Sat noon to 2pm, from Dhs550. Tel: (0)4 435 6888. @mei.dxb

SHI

SHI’s Chinese New Year menu on Bluewaters leans into polished crowd-pleasers. Dim sum hits the familiar notes with har gau, chicken siu mai and a crisp prawn pancake, before moving into richer territory with Wagyu beef claypot, red snapper dressed in a punchy Gan Shao Yu sauce, and of course a Peking duck dish. Dessert lands on symbolism rather than indulgence with a Yin and Yang finish. While the set menu is available all week, lion dances and fan performances rotate across the venue on February 16 and 17, adding atmosphere without overwhelming the dining room. SHI, Bluewaters, Dubai, weekdays 1pm to 1am, and weekends 1pm to 2am, from Dhs500. Tel: (0)4 393 9990. @shi.dxb

MOSAICO

Afternoon tea gets a Lunar New Year glow-up at Mosaico, where Palazzo Versace Dubai swaps finger sandwiches for dim sum in a Chinese-themed high tea. Set in the hotel’s lavish lobby lounge, the experience pairs delicate bites with panoramic skyline views, wrapped in festive décor and traditional entertainment that leans into the spirit of the season. Available from February 15 to 20, between 10am and 7pm, the Chinese New Year high tea is priced at Dhs420 per person.

Mosaico, Palazzo Versace Dubai, Al Jaddaf, from February 15 to 20, Dhs420. Tel: (0)4 556 8888. @palazzoversacedubai

MOLI

MOLI marks Chinese New Year with a set menu offering that opens with crowd-pleasers such as duck spring rolls, turnip cake and a curated selection of handcrafted dim sum, before moving on to heartier mains including Kung Pao chicken, tender lamb ribs and a warming Sichuan vegetable pot. Set menus are priced from Dhs400 per person.

Dubai Hills Business Park, Sun to Thur noon to 1am, Fri and Sat noon to 2am, from Dhs400. Tel: (0)4 276 3338. @molidubai

CNY CONCERT AT EXPO CITY DUBAI

SHANG PALACE

At the Shangri-La’s muchloved Shang Palace, Chinese New Year is marked with a celebratory set menu running from February 16 to 20. Expect classic flavours delivered with polish, but it’s the lo hei salad – the symbolic “prosperity toss” – that steals the spotlight. Gather your table, mix with gusto and good intentions, and toast to luck, wealth and longevity for the year ahead. Book for February 17 and the festivities dial up a notch, with a traditional lion dance and a dose of old-school New Year theatre to the dining room. Shang Palace, Shangri-La, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dhs398 per person. Tel: (0)4 405 2703. @shangpalace.dubai

Away from the dim sum baskets and dinner tables, Chinese New Year celebrations take a more musical turn under the Al Wasl Dome at Expo City Dubai. The Firdaus Orchestra rings in the Lunar New Year with a one-night concert that swaps clinking chopsticks for soaring symphonies, blending orchestral grandeur with traditional East Asian melodies. Taking place on February 8 as part of Al Wasl Season, the performance by the UAE’s pioneering all-women ensemble spans classical, pop and fusion. Expect an upbeat, feel-good evening that captures the spirit of renewal without the food coma.

February 8

Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai, 7pm to 8.30pm. dubai.platinumlist.net

SAVRYN

Where a young chef leads with heart, creativity and craft, and every plate tells a story

WORDS: LANA

DU

We walked into Savryn Dubai curious and left completely won over. This is Chef Shehab Medhat’s space, and you feel it instantly – the passion, creativity and hands-on presence he brings to the counter. His dishes arrive like pieces of art, beautifully composed, then surprise you with flavours more complex than their appearance. Tucked away in Jumeirah 1, Savryn feels like a secret you’ll want to share, whether you’re planning a relaxed night with friends, a family celebration or a date that calls for something intimate and memorable, with the chef in full flow just a few steps away.

The spot

Savryn nails the low-key vibe, giving it a cosy feel with just a hint of mystery. Flowing red curtains, soft lighting and ostrich-feather lamps frame the room, adding a chic yet warm touch. The space feels close, beautifully boutqiue, and that’s the point – every seat feels like it’s a courtside to the culinary action, permitting you to watch the magic up close.

The food

The experience is shaped by Chef Shehab Medhat, and you live his creativity from the first bite. The menu travels across Africa

– Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa – with each dish arriving alongside a short story card and an explanation from the chef himself. We’d recommend the 10-course tasting menu, designed for sharing, foodie conversation and discovery. Standouts include the salmon tartare with Somali xawaash, the playful “Foie Gras Who?” chicken liver mousse, and the outstanding ostrich sambousek, crisp on the outside with deeply flavoured meat inside. Mains continue the journey, from slow-cooked golden ribs inspired by Zanzibar spice routes to te oyoo ten, where lamb, corn polenta, plantain and Ghanaian shito come together fragrantly. Here, the desserts are just as creative, especially the curveball tomato finale, a gastronomic book that ought not be judged by its cover.

The drinks

The drinks menu complements the food beautifully, with pairings that highlight the spiceled flavours without overpowering them. We tried a few standout mocktails, including the Ruby Basil – red basil, hibiscus and coconut

foam – more consumable art, this time in a glass, Soblo with hibiscus, pineapple, black pepper and ginger, and the Sweet Figs Iced Tea, a refreshing mix of figs, rosemary, lime cascara and rooibos tea. Cocktails worth exploring include the Lamuji, Champan and Papaya, each bringing its own playful profiles to the busy table.

What’s on the bill

The 10-course tasting menu is priced at Dhs465 per person.

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

Savryn sets itself apart with a chef-led experience where African flavours come alive through craft, storytelling and personality. If you’re in the mood for something truly unique – a meal that sparks conversation and feels like art on the plate – this is the table to book next.

Location: Wasl Vita Mall, Jumeirah 1 Times: Wednesday to Monday, 7pm to 11.30pm

Cost: Dhs465 per person (10-course tasting menu)

Contact: (058) 587 5771; @savryn.diningroom

MAMABELLA

Instagram-promised nonnas, comfort and chaos –we disocver if this italian eatery lives up to the hype

WORDS: MADIE MURPHY

After months of anticipation, Instagram hype and the promise of Italian grandmothers cooking your dinner, Mamabella opened its doors and we went in hungry (and curious) to see whether this much-talked-about spot is more than just a PR stunt.

The vibe

Walking into Mamabella feels like stepping into a well-dressed Italian family home rather than a polished Dubai restaurant. It’s warm, bustling and full of life, the kind of place where chatter bounces off the walls and you’re encouraged to linger rather than rush through courses.

For those wanting to have an extra special experience, there is a private dining area that looks exactly like you are stepping into the kitchen of the nonnas Think coloured tiles, fun tablecloths and one big table to share food over. The grandmothers are front and centre, rolling pasta, stirring sauces and occasionally chatting with guests like they’ve known

them for years — if you speak Italian, that is. It’s charming without feeling gimmicky and there’s a genuine sense of comfort here, like you’re sitting at the table in your own grandmother’s kitchen.

It’s not quiet, it’s not moody and it’s definitely not a place for whispering over candlelight. Mamabella is about togetherness, noise, laughter and plates being passed around.

The food and drinks

The menu leans heavily into classic Italian comfort food, and honestly, that’s exactly what you want it to do.

Portions are generous, flavours are bold and there’s nothing trying too hard to be OTT.

The recipes taste like they’ve been made with decades of practice (because, well, they have).

The homemade pasta is the star of the show. The pizza is equally satisfying, with a crisp base and toppings that keep things traditional rather than experimental.

If you’re a meat lover, you’ll be glad to know everything is wood-fired, leaning into the history and heritage behind the restaurant.

The drinks menu keeps things easygoing. Italian wines dominate, cocktails are unfussy and everything feels designed to complement the food rather than distract from it.

The

service Service is friendly, relaxed and occasionally a little chaotic, but in a way that suits the restaurant’s personality. Staff are happy to explain dishes, make recommendations and lean into the story behind the concept without overdoing it. And while the nonnas aren’t tableside entertainers, their presence adds a warmth you can’t manufacture. You’ll find some incredible performers floating around, too, as they dance traditonal Italian dances and get everyone up on the floor.

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

Mamabella isn’t trying to reinvent Italian food and that’s exactly why it works. It’s comforting, lively and genuinely enjoyable, delivering on its promise of soulful cooking and feel-good dining. Come with friends, come hungry, and don’t be in a rush to leave. This is Italian dining the way it’s meant to be: loud, loving and full of heart.

Location: Mamabella, Kempinski Hotel, Downtown Dubai Times: 12pm to 2am Contact: (04) 430 8999 @mamabelladubai

TEZUKURI

Minimalist Japanese dining with a side of vinyl-level cool

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

The spot

Dubai Opera quietly levelled up its dining credentials late last year with the arrival of Tezukuri, a poised and polished addition to the District. The concept comes courtesy of an all-female power pairing: Neha Mishra of Kinoya fame, alongside Panchali Mahendra of Atelier House Hospitality (11 Woodfire). Together, they’ve created what’s billed as a “modern Japanese temaki and listening bar”.

The main dining room is minimalist. Warm blonde wood wraps the counter, where most guests perch front-row, watching chefs work with nearmonastic focus. Lighting is low and flattering, creating depth through shadow. Tucked discreetly away is a fabulous speakeasy-style listening bar –complete with stellar surround system and record player – that serves martinis and seats 10 (at a push).

The food and drinks

At the heart of Tezukuri is the temaki, where hand rolls are served from the counter without delay or distraction. It’s Japanese dining distilled down to timing and restraint. Watch closely and you’ll see it play out: a quiet choreography

behind the counter, each roll (bluefin tuna; red prawn, uni, seaperch for example) passed directly to the guest.

The kitchen is led by Chef Tatsuya, an Osaka native whose precision anchors the experience. Beyond the hand rolls, the menu expands into kobachi and onsai, with small plates that reward attention. The chicken tsukune arrives juicy and well-seasoned, while the A5 wagyu nigiri is seared counter-side with charcoal, just enough heat to coax out the marbling without overwhelming it. There are other hits: boneless chicken wings hidden under a mound of parmesan; and a gorgeously tangy daikon salad drizzled in a sour plum dressing. The drinks programme is confident with city-inspired cocktails, a thoughtful sake selection, wine, premium spirits and well-crafted mocktails for those abstaining.

The service

If you sit at the counter (which you should), the chefs are the show, serious and not especially chatty. That said, Chef

Tatsuya, bow tie and all, brings moments of warmth between the meticulousness. Floor staff are gentle and present without appearing to hover.

What’s on the bill

Hand rolls run the gamut from Dhs35 (enoki mushroom) to Dhs200 (premium Japanese sea urchin), nigiri from Dhs30, while small plates range from Dhs45 (chicken thigh skewers) to Dhs400 (A5 Japanese wagyu tenderloin).

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

Tezukuri feels like a passion project executed with clarity. Expect repeat visits, especially to that listening bar – just remember to book.

Location: Ground Floor, Opera Grand, Downtown Dubai Times: Tue to Fri 6pm to midnight, Sat and Sun noon to midnight (Mondays closed)

Contact: (058) 141 9696; @tezukuridubai

FALCONE

Generous Italian cooking lands in Al Barsha with warmth, confidence and an easygoing spirit

WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE

The spot

Falcone has arrived in Al Barsha and if neighbourhood Italian is your thing – think unpretentious, yet top-of-theirgame dishes served amidst a backdrop of comfort and generosity – then you’ve arrived at your culinary home. The room hums from the moment you step inside and the welcome is warm. The decor leans into warmth with bright colours that scream Capri afternoons in the sun and the pace is fast without feeling rushed. It’s bright and bustling and immediately gives you that lived-in, comforting feeling.

Nonna’s meatballs, which are tender, rich and exactly as comforting as promised. Fritto misto arrives hot and light and hitting all the right notes.

The food and drinks

The menu is built for sharing and the table fills easily. In fact, it fills a little too easily because you’re likely over-order as you work your way through the crowdpleasing menu. We begin with insalata di pollo, crisp and balanced, followed by

in-house spun gelato is a sure-fire winner with the little guests as they queue to make their selection.

The

service

Service mirrors the food: warm, capable and unfussy. Plates arrive with gusto and with confidence, it’s as if they’re in a hurry to get the food tableside, even though they do so without feeling rushed or hurried. You’ll be thankful for their determination.

Pasta holds its own alongside the pizza-heavy billing. Fusilli alla vodka is indulgent without excess, glossy and warming with just the slightest kick on the tastebuds (the little ones will say it’s too spicy, but that means more for you!), while the chicken parm arrives unapologetically generous and designed for passing around, which you will do begrudgingly, such is the moreish nature of this winner. Oven-roasted potatoes are quietly excellent – super-crisp and fluffy inside. Satisfying in the most simplest way.

Then there’s the pizza. The margherita hits all the right pizza notes: the crust crackles, the tomato sauce bursts with freshness and the cheese ratio is spoton. Nothing feels overworked. Dessert brings things to a gentle close. Tiramisu is standard, but moreish, while the freshly

What’s on the bill

For a family of four, expect to pay around Dhs400-500, depending on the dishes, but prices are standard, though there is the inevitable overordering to consider...

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

A confident new neighbourhood Italian that balances pedigree with approachability. With assured pizza, generous plates and an atmosphere built for gathering, Falcone feels already established despite being newbies in Al Barsha and it’s destined to become a neighbourhood favourite in no time.

Location: Falcone, Galleria Mall - Ground Floor, Al Barsha 2

Times: Mon to Fri 12-11pm, Sat and Sun 10 am to 11pm

Contact: (04) 575 1336 @falconedxb

Iftar by the Marina

Venue: Origins, Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club

Time: Throughout Ramadan, sunset to 8.30pm

Prices starting from AED 215 per person

PEPPERONI COMEDY CLUB

Where pizza meets punchlines smack bang in the centre of 25 Jump Street

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

The spot

Rikas Hospitality has been rapidly expanding its Dubai empire, but Pepperoni Comedy Club feels like a left turn, in a good way. This is a casual, clever pivot into Americana, done in collaboration with radio heavyweight Kris Fade. The result is a refreshing dinercomedy club hybrid.

They’ve chosen their address wisely, too. 25 Jump Street is already earning its stripes as the city’s first licensed street. On launch night, the strip was buzzing and Pepperoni felt like the epicentre.

Weekends currently bring regional comedy talent into the back room, a purpose-built club that channels the intimate, basement-style venues of New York. Rows of chairs face a compact stage, with booth seating hugging the sides – prime real estate if you like to heckle quietly. Out front, the diner is a riot of design details: mismatched vintage paraphernalia, a candy-wrapped glass bar, bowling pins, model planes, oversized

pink frilly lampshades and a pinball machine for good measure. It’s chaotic and fun.

The food and drinks

The kitchen is alarmingly small for a menu this ambitious. Peer through the pass and you’ll spot a small army of chefs moving at speed, turning out American-Italian comfort food. Starters cover familiar ground. There’s arancini with Bolognese sauce, spicy potato croquettes, generous corn and avocado salads. The rigatoni arrabbiata is the sleeper hit, giving Carbone’s signature dish a run for its money.

Still, the pizza is the point. Thin, crisp pepperoni pies dominate tables — and rightly so. They’re not trying to reinvent anything here and that’s kind of the charm. This is crowdpleasing food, executed well. Drinks follow the same dual-track logic. You can keep it classic, sipping beers or cocktails from diner-style red cups, or lean into the left-field menu with concoctions like ketchup-andmustard martinis or a palomingo blending sherry, port, grapefruit and yuzu. Low-brow, high-brow, it’s your call.

The service

With a packed house and a comedy show looming, things could have unraveled. Instead, service held steady. Francisco, our server, was switched on, enthusiastic with recommendations and even offered to box up pizzas pre-show. Small gesture, big impression.

What’s on the bill

Starters range from around Dhs65 (Mama’s bruschetta) to Dhs105 (beef carpaccio). Salads hover around Dhs80, while pizzas sit at Dhs105 for the classic pepperoni.

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

A win. Dubai gets its first permanent comedy club, wrapped in a diner. Add fun food, smart drinks and a genuinely good atmosphere, and Pepperoni Comedy Club earns its place on the Street... and in the city.

Location: 25 Jump Street, One Central, World Trade Centre Times: Sun to Thur noon to midnight, Fri and Sat noon to 2am Contact: (0)4 572 7040; @pepperoni_comedyclub

WHAT’S YOUR FLAVOUR?

Taste of Dubai 2026 returns with celebrity chefs, demos and great food

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

This month, Dubai Media City Amphitheatre becomes the city’s most delicious meeting point once again. Yes, Taste of Dubai is back February 6 to 8, turning the volume up on flavour with a line-up that pulls serious culinary clout with big-name chefs, the region’s most exciting restaurant kitchens and hands-on masterclasses. After drawing more than 27,000 hungry punters in 2025, this year’s edition promises louder energy, bolder plates and plenty of reasons to come hungry.

What’s on the menu?

Sixteen of the city’s most talked-about kitchens will be firing out their greatest hits at a fraction of the usual price.

Expect a smart mix of established favourites and buzz-building newcomers, each serving four-to-five taster-size dishes created exclusively for the weekend. Among the heavy hitters include Duck & Waffle bringing its crowd-pleasing, British-leaning comfort food; Akira Back delivering polished, punchy Asian fusion from the globally acclaimed chef; and Demon Duck keeping things playful with street-food-inspired Asian classics that hit hard on flavour. Lowe Dubai represents the city’s more experimental edge, translating its seasonal, produce-driven tasting menus into festival-ready bites, while city newcomer Khadak puts a contemporary and delicious spin on South Asian barbecue and grill traditions.

Between plates, take a slower wander through the artisan stalls and local exhibitors, where you’ll find everything from proper Napoli-style gelato to boutique honeys, sweet, sticky interludes designed to reset the palate before diving back in.

The celebrity chefs

A big part of Taste of Dubai’s pull lies beyond the plates – it’s in its line-up of internationally recognised chefs taking to the stage for live demonstrations, hands-on workshops and masterclasses. This year’s roster mixes genuine culinary authority with plenty of personality.

Leading the charge is Gino D’Acampo, the Italian-British chef and TV mainstay whose knack for making proper Italian food feel refreshingly accessible has earned him legions of fans. Expect Neapolitan soul, cheeky chats and a high-energy teaching style honed across countless cookbooks and shows, including Gino’s Italian Escape. He’s joined by Matt Preston, the much-loved MasterChef Australia judge and food commentator, bringing his encyclopaedic knowledge of global gastronomy, unmistakable cravat and a sharp sense of humour to the festival stage.

Rounding out the line-up is Matthew Jones, founder of London’s Bread Ahead and a leading voice in modern artisan baking. Known for cult-status doughnuts, naturally fermented sourdough and hands-on workshops, Jones brings serious baking credibility to the festival, alongside festival regular Jenny Morris (aka The Giggling Gourmet), whose infectious energy and bold, flavour-forward dishes has made her one of Taste of Dubai’s most beloved guest stars.

Workshops, fire pits and fun

Beyond the headline chefs and restaurant stalls, Taste of Dubai leans hard into handson fun. Cook School puts you shoulder-to-shoulder with the pros in guided sessions that end with tasting your own handiwork. Meanwhile, the Fire Pit zone turns up the drama with smoke, flame and open-air cooking led by expert pitmasters, offering a masterclass in all things BBQ. For something more focused, Chefs Hub hosts intimate workshops exploring global flavours, smart techniques and seasonal skills you’ll actually use long after the festival wraps.

Sip, relax and lounge

When it’s time to down tools, the festival knows how to do downtime properly. Over-21s can drift between five licensed bars pouring drinks from international brands, soundtracked by live music, DJ sets and the occasional giveaway. For a more elevated escape, the VIP Lounge ups the ante with plush seating, dedicated bars and enhanced entertainment, plus food and drink vouchers, fast-track entry and access to every chef-led experience, all without missing a beat.

February 6 to 8

Taste of Dubai, Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, Friday and Saturday noon to midnight, Sunday noon to 11pm, Dhs80 (standard), Dhs185 (incl two food and two drinks vouchers), Dhs350 (incl three food and four drink vouchers, plus entry to the VIP Lounge). tasteofdubaifestival.com

BARS RAISED

Where Dubai goes for its very best chocolate

WORDS:

SAMMI BARNARD

Good chocolate rarely needs much introduction.

A well-made bar or box of chocolates can speak for itself, whether it is bought as a gift or kept for personal use (we’re usually guilty of the latter, to be honest!). In Dubai, access to premium chocolate has expanded well beyond the occasional personal indulgence, with international names and local specialists offering a wide range of styles, flavours and price points. From long-established European brands to home-grown makers, these chocolatiers stand out for elevating the chocolate game. You’ll thank us later.

Le Chocolatier Dubai

Le Chocolatier Dubai focuses on presentation as much as flavour, producing chocolates that are designed to be given as much as eaten. Many items can be personalised, which has made the brand a go-to for occasions such as weddings, corporate events and celebrations (Valentine’s Day, anyone?) that call for a tailored touch.

Using Belgian chocolate as its base, the boutique offers bars, assorted boxes and themed collections, alongside same-day delivery within Dubai for smaller orders. Its Jumeirah Lakes Towers bricks-and-mortar location also allows customers to browse their selections in person. lechocolatierdubai.com

Ghraoui

With origins dating back to 1805, Ghraoui is one of the oldest names on this list. The brand’s strength lies in its breadth, offering chocolates suited to a wide range of occasions, from formal gifts to family celebrations.

Available through delivery platforms as well as in-store at Dubai Mall, Ghraoui is often chosen for its reliability and traditional approach to flavour. It is less about novelty and more about familiarity, which remains part of its appeal. ghraouichocolate.com

Godiva

Godiva remains one of the most recognisable names in chocolate and for good reason. Founded 100 years ago, the Belgian brand has built its reputation on refined flavour profiles and dependable quality, making it a popular choice for formal gifting as well as everyday treats. Its range spans classic boxed chocolates, seasonal collections and dipped creations, with pricing that allows for both modest gestures and more substantial gifts. With multiple Godiva locations across Dubai – The Outlet Village, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City, and Zero 6 Mall – grabbing something special is often extremely easy. godivauae.com

Mirzam

Läderach

Swiss chocolatier Läderach is best known for its fresh, broken slabs of chocolate, which are cut to order and showcase texture as much as taste. Founded in 1962 and still family-run, the brand has expanded globally while maintaining a strong emphasis on ingredient quality.

In Dubai, Läderach stores combine retail with café seating, making them a place to slow down rather than simply pick up a box and leave. Its assortment includes classic milk and dark varieties, nut-studded slabs and vegan options, appealing to both traditionalists and those looking to try something new. Visit their chocolate store and café at Mall of the Emirates, or their chocolate only boutiques at Dubai Mall, City Centre Mirdif and City Centre Al Zahia. laderach.ae

Mirzam takes a more hands-on approach, producing its chocolate entirely in-house at its Dubai factory. Working bean-to-bar, the team roasts, grinds and refines cacao on site, with an emphasis on flavour transparency and origin.

Inspired by the historic Spice Route, Mirzam’s bars often incorporate regional ingredients and unexpected combinations. Alongside bars, the range includes drinking chocolate, truffles and caramels, with vegan options available. For those interested in how chocolate is made, Mirzam’s factory setting adds an extra layer of interest beyond the finished product. Visit their stores in Al Quoz, Al Khawaneej Walk, Al Seef, and Shada Hotel, or shop online at mirzam.com

DATE NIGHT, UP NORTH

Visiting the Northern Emirates? These are the spots to book for a romantic night out

WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN

Drift Seafood Kitchen & Bar

For couples who believe romance is best served by the sea, Drift Seafood Kitchen & Bar is an easy win. Set along the shoreline at InterContinental Fujairah, this elegant spot pairs ocean views with a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to kick back and come as you are. There’s something wonderfully old-world about dining by the water here – and it’s perfect for date nights that don’t need theatrics, just good food, great conversation and a beautiful setting.

Best for: Low-key couples looking for dinner with a view.

Where: Intercontinental Fujairah. fujairah.intercontinental.com

Shore House

Set right on the sands of Al Hamra Beach, this coastal gem delivers front-row views of the Arabian Gulf, where sunset fades seamlessly into candlelit romance. The vibe is relaxed yet refined, with soft lighting, natural textures and an ocean breeze that lulls you into relaxation. Expect Mediterranean-inspired dishes and beautifully presented plates designed for sharing. Sunset is a lovely opportunity to enjoy the last of the rays with a drink in hand, then as evening settles in, the atmosphere turns quietly glamorous, making it perfect for special occasions by the sea. Best for: Blissful beachfront romance.

Where: The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach. @shorehouse_rak

Canvas Rooftop

This laidback pool bar might not strike you as one of Fujairah’s most romantic spots by day, but once the orange glow of the lanterns illuminates at night, the ambience shifts. There’s a special package that’s perfect for couples, where you’ll get to enjoy a welcome drink followed by a three-course set menu, while gazing out from the rooftop pool bar to the calm waters of the sea. It’s priced from Dhs500 per couple. Best for: Celebrating a special occasion with a private dinner.

Where: Fairmont Fujairah. fairmont.com

Umi

This elegant Japanese restaurant is sleek, sophisticated and undeniably romantic. Dim lighting and sultry interiors set the scene for a date night that invites you to dress up and be transported to Japan. Sit at the sushi bar and watch as chefs prepare sushi, sashimi and nigiri shabu-shabu style, or take your seat for a theatrical show at the sizzling teppanyaki grill, where culinary masters whip up premium cuts on an iron plate. This is interactive dining at its best. Best for: An intimate teppanyaki experience.

Where: Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. @umi_waldorfrak

Levant & Nar

Nomani

Housed within a beautifully restored heritage property in the heart of Sharjah, this elegant restaurant blends traditional charm with contemporary finesse. The courtyardstyle setting and tranquil ambience make it instantly intimate, perfect for couples who appreciate quiet sophistication. A distinctive dining experience that fuses Japanese and Korean cuisines, it pairs the best of both cuisines, exploring rich culinary traditions but reinterpreting them for a modern palate. From comforting bowls of hearty ramen to Korean barbecue favourites and delicate sushi rolls, it’s refined while remaining informal – a true hidden gem for romantic dining in Sharjah.

Located at InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah, this intimate Middle Eastern restaurant balances elevated charm with meaningful warmth beautifully, making it a standout for romantic evenings. Dine indoors and let the fragrant aromas from the open kitchen enhance the ambience, or sit on the alfresco terrace and cosy up by the firepit. Opt for the chef’s table experience – a four-course set menu of refined mezze, Turkish favourites and premium grilled selections served at a private table – for the best showcase of the restaurant’s highlights.

Best for: Serene seaside dining.

Where: InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah.

@levantandnar

Best for: Foodies looking for an elevated meal.

Where: The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah. ghmhotels.com

Wishi

Set within the beautifully restored Najd Al Meqsar in Sharjah, Wishi offers a dining experience unlike anywhere else in the Northern Emirates. Surrounded by rugged mountains and heritage architecture, the setting feels appealingly secluded, as though you’ve discovered somewhere just for you. By night, warm lighting illuminates the stone walls, creating a warm, almost cinematic atmosphere. It’s the perfect escape for couples seeking something meaningful and memorable, far removed from the usual restaurant scene.

Best for: Adventurous couples that appreciate culture and culinary in equal measure.

Where: Najd Al Meqsar, Khorfakkan. sharjahcollection.ae

LOVE, ACTUALLY

Thoughtful Valentine’s Day gifts that will ensure Cupid’s arrow hits the target this February 14

WORDS: LANA DU

Fl owers on Valentine’s Day are always welcome, but gifts that last speak a little louder. Pieces and experiences that feel personal and meaningful become their own kind of love language, showing someone you know them well and can say what words sometimes don’t. We’ve rounded up our favourite gifts for her, him, or anyone you’re thinking about this year.

GIFTS FOR HER

Gifts that feel personal always land best. Think jewellery she can wear every day, or creative, out-of-the-box experiences made for her.

Romantic experience

Cozy Alpine dining in the heart of the desert, from Dhs690, nara.ae

If you and your partner love a cosy night, this one’s for you. Toast marshmallows, tuck into fondue, raclette and pierrade, and unwind in intimate chalet-style seating by candlelight.

Romantic dining

Dinner at Pierchic, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Price depends on menu selection

For Valentine’s dinner with a view, Pierchic sits out in the water with the Burj Al Arab as your backdrop. One of the city’s most romantic spots, it serves Italian-inspired cuisine that lives up to the setting. A night of wow-worthy food and atmosphere.

Shoulder bag

Sunglasses

Bella sunglasses, Karen Wazen, Dhs700, bloomingdales.ae

A sharp cat-eye shape gives the Bella sunglasses their edge, with clean lines that work with almost any outfit. Designed by Dubaibased Karen Wazen, this homegrown brand delivers an easy, flattering fit that works day to day.

Gold earrings

Kiku Pearl Thread Earrings in 18kt Gold, Dhs620, ounass.ae

Simple but striking. The Kiku earrings pair a fine 18kt gold chain with a single freshwater pearl that sits just below the jawline. Light, fluid and easy to wear, they work just as well with everyday looks as they do dressed up.

The Bisou Perle bag, Jacquemus, Dhs2,800, jacquemus.ae

The Bisou Perle is a structured shoulder bag in soft lambskin, set with distinctive bead details on the adjustable strap and finished with subtle logo hardware. Its compact silhouette fits essentials, while the mix of smooth leather and tactile beading gives it a modern, wearable edge – a piece that goes from day to night.

Scarf

Embroidered cashmere scarf, Dhs2,800, ysl.com

This rectangular scarf is woven from certified cashmere and finished with subtle Saint Laurent embroidery. The soft camel tone sits with almost any outfit, while the generous size lets her wear it wrapped up or draped loose – a piece that feels luxurious yet versatile.

Wellness experience

60-minute couples massage at Talise Ottoman Spa, Dhs1,380, jumeirah.com

If you and your Valentine are looking to unwind together, a 60-minute couple’s massage is a perfect pick. You’ll also get full access to the spa’s luxe facilities – heated marble beds, thalassotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, snow rooms, and a calming Thai garden – for a Valentine’s gift that’s as relaxing as it is romantic.

GIFTS FOR HIM

Sometimes it’s a treat he wouldn’t get for himself but still reflects his interests — you can’t go wrong keeping it simple.

Keychain

Bottega Veneta

Intrecciato leather keyring, Dhs1,300, bloomingdales.ae

The Intrecciato keyring’s signature woven leather is paired with silverfinished hardware, creating a simple, stylish piece he can carry daily.

Bracelet

Emanuele Bicocchi Shield Beaded Bracelet, Sterling Silver, Dhs1,190, bloomingdales.ae

Active lifestyle

Decathlon gift voucher, Decathlon, value as desired Is it safe to say most men enjoy some form of sport, fitness, or staying active? If your partner is into anything from camping to biking, water sports, or racket games, Decathlon is probably one of his favourite stores. A gift voucher lets him choose exactly what he needs to fuel his next adventure.

The Shield Bracelet pairs polished sterling silver beads with engraved shield spacers for subtle, timeless detail. Finished with a sculpted lobster clasp, it’s a refined piece that works as an everyday accessory or a statement for special occasions.

Wearable tech

WHOOP 5.0 Fitness Tracker, Dhs549, shop.whoop.com

Wellness experience

Gentlemen’s Day at Talise Ottoman Spa, Dhs890, jumeirah.com

Gentlemen’s Day offers a 45-minute signature Hammam and a 60-minute full-body massage, followed by refreshments and full access to the spa’s luxury facilities – including heated marble beds, thalassotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, snow rooms, and a calming Thai garden – for a truly indulgent experience.

Hoodie

The Gros Grain zipped hoodie, Jacquemus, Dhs1,790, jacquemus.ae

WHOOP 5.0 tracks sleep, recovery and daily strain, helping him understand his body better over time. With over 14 days of battery life and a screen-free design, it’s made for everyday wear.

This hoodie from Jacquemus ticks all the boxes: practical, comfy and stylish. Sleek design makes it perfect for everyday wear, while the brand adds a subtle, cool edge he’ll wear all the time.

Portable speaker

Beosound Explore Ferrari Edition waterproof outdoor speaker, Dhs1,450

This portable speaker goes wherever he goes, delivering rich sound and easy outdoor us — perfect for trips, workouts, or just bringing the soundtrack along for everyday life.

FOR EVERYONE ELSE

There’s more to Valentine’s Day than romance and sometimes, it’s the thought that counts... and goes a long way.

Candle holder

Emerald Deluxe gift set,

Florasis’ Emerald Deluxe set mixes tradition with modern beauty in one stunning package. Each carved makeup piece highlights Oriental craftsmanship while staying practical and wearable.

Glass Hurricane candle holder, Dhs515, crateandbarrel.me

Clean lines, soft curves, and natural marble make this a gift that works for anyone. The glass hurricane protects the flame while letting the stone’s subtle grey veining shine, adding a touch of modern style to any home.

Fragrance

Givenchy L’Interdit Eau de Parfum Rouge, Dhs520, sephora.me

Rich and sensual, L’Interdit Eau de Parfum Rouge balances warmth and elegance, making it a standout scent she’ll make her signature scent.

Card holder

Coach Mini Skinny ID case, Dhs425, bloomingdales.ae

A compact everyday essential that combines style and practicality. With multiple card slots and a clear ID window, it keeps essentials organised while adding a sleek, modern touch to daily life.

ART | THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC

THE COMEDIAN IN CARR

The

If there is indeed a Pantheon of comedy, then there must surely be an entire tier of it devoted to Jimmy Carr. He’s panel show royalty, a roastmaster, a show host and prolific podcaster, writer, and professor of comedic science – but it all starts and ends with stand-up. His sold-out arena tours, and Netflix Specials are comic masterclasses, majoring in risky, edge-courting humour, scathing suplexes on plucky hecklers and dead-pan one-liners delivered with the clinical accuracy of a special forces’ sniper. And he’s bringing his latest tour, Laughs Funny, for a twonight stop in Dubai Opera this month.

To celebrate this eagerly awaited return to our city, we’ve put together some of our favourite pieces of Jimmy wisdom in joke clothing. Jimmy Carr, not just a comedy vehicle.

On families:

“Here’s my advice for dealing with family trauma: accept the apology you’re never going to get and move on. There, I just saved you £25,000 in therapy. You’re welcome.”

On reading the signs:

UK’s stand-up king returns to Dubai WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE may

accidents ahead’; ‘Life’s a

“My favourite road sign is ‘Falling Rocks’. What exactly am I supposed to do with that information? They may as well have a sign saying, ‘Random accidents ahead’; ‘Life’s a lottery, Be lucky.’”

On the power of now:

“The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time.”

On being offended:

“Being offended on behalf of someone is [redacted]. It’s virtue signalling and it’s condescending (condescending means patronising, like when you

talk down to someone - you understand, right?).”

On mastering your own

fate:

“You know what they call selfhelp books in the third world? Firewood.”

On the folly of marketing

“You know what they call tautology: cheese

Now

“In Pizza Express you can get garlic bread with cheese and tomato. Now correct me if I’m wrong, but that’s a pizza.”

Dubai Opera on February 21 and February 22, tickets from Dhs250. dubai.platinumlist.net

LHITTING THE RIGHT NOTES (STILL)

REW!ND DXB brings the 80s and 90s to centre stage

WORDS: SAMMI BARNARD

ong after chart positions fade, certain songs will hold their place.

For many, the music of the 1980s and 1990s is less about nostalgia for its own sake and more about memory, association and shared experience. REW!ND DXB taps into that connection, returning to Bla Bla Dubai on Saturday, February 7 for its fourth edition.

Set against the backdrop of JBR, the festival brings together artists whose music once dominated radio playlists and dance floors – and whose songs still turn up at weddings, parties and late-night playlists decades later.

WHY THESE NAMES ENDURE

The appeal of REW!ND DXB lies in its commitment to the original artists. Rather than tribute acts, the line-up features performers who shaped the sound of their era, from Marc Almond’s synth-led pop to Soul II Soul’s genre-blending influence on British dance music. Acts such as Heaven 17, Go West and Nik Kershaw represent a period when pop, new wave and soul regularly crossed into the mainstream.

And there’s also Jason Donovan, who adorned many posters on many bedroom walls around the world. For audiences who grew up with this music, the familiarity is immediate.

THE EXPERIENCE

Running from midday into the evening, REW!ND DXB is designed as a fullday event with live bands performing throughout the afternoon, bringing nonstop nostalgia-packed sets and tracks as you take in the beachside setting.

The venue plays a role, too. Bla Bla’s open layout and waterfront location lends itself to a festival atmosphere that is relaxed rather than frantic, encouraging shared moments as much as hands-in-theair singalongs.

WHY IT MATTERS NOW

Events like REW!ND offer something different: continuity. They remind audiences of a time when songs were built to last and when live performance was central to how music was experienced.

That enduring appeal has helped REW!ND establish itself as a recurring fixture in Dubai’s cultural calendar. Four editions in, the festival has proven that nostalgia can still feel relevant – not as a throwback, but as a celebration of music that refuses to fade.

NEED TO KNOW

REW!ND DXB is strictly 21+, with no re-entry permitted. Tickets start from Dhs395. Where: Bla Bla, JBR

When: Saturday, February 7 from 12pm onwards Tickets available at rewindfestdxb.com @rewindfestdxb

BACKYARD CINEMA

Big blockbusters filmed here in the UAE

The combination of futuristic cityscapes, wild otherworldly desert expanses and a talented pool of filmmaking professionals living right here – it’s no wonder the UAE plays the starring role in the staging of so many bigscreen stories.

These are just some of the most famous examples of the UAE, providing backdrops and stealing scenes.

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t (2025)

Christopher Nolan’s movie The Prestige famously taught us that there are three parts to all good magic tricks. The final scenes of this, what is the third installment of the Now You See Me stage illusionist x heist franchise, suggest that this particular saga will likely extend to at least four. The film’s dramatic crescendo is also of particular interest for us UAE dwellers because it takes place in Abu Dhabi, with shoot locations including the F1, multiple Yas Island theme parks, and the pivotal mic drop moment unfolds under the architectural majesty of the Louvre Abu Dhabi dome.

Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1 (2023)

This seventh Mission: Impossible movie marks the third time the all-thrill-no-fill Tom Cruise vehicle has rolled into the UAE, and it’s an Abu Dhabi double dip. There are the scenes shot inside (and, slight spoiler, on top of) the stunning new Terminal A complex in Zayed International Airport, where the IMF team are trying to intercept the key to a terrifying advanced AI entity. Then there are the Rub’ al Khali ambush sequences where Ethan Hunt (Cruise) provides an extraction service for rogue agent Ilsa Faust.

Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)

Five out of five sweaty palms for the stunts in this, the fourth Mission: Impossible movie. The MI gang are in Dubai to intercept the sale of some launch codes and prevent nuclear war, culminating in an incredible free-climbing Burj Khalifa scene that more than makes up for the sprinkling of artistic license used in the film’s geography of Dubai. Still, you’re a more tolerant human than us if you can watch Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) run directly out of DIFC and into some unspecified Old Dubai souk, without commenting loudly on the incredulity of it all.

Dune (2020) and Dune: Part 2 (2024)

Come on down, the spice is right. The Dune series is director Denis Villeneuve’s interpretation of the classic Frank Herbert science fiction novel of the same name and serves as a reboot to the popular 1984 movie. This time around, the cast is headed up by Timothée Chalamet, Josh Brolin, Rebecca Ferguson, and Jason Momoa. The story follows Paul Atreides (Chalamet), a young man thrust into a power struggle on a distant planet, where two houses battle for control of the galaxy’s most precious resource: a ‘spice’ called Melange. The main location for the action is the desert planet of Arrakis played, rather nobly by Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter.

Star Trek Beyond (2016)

When the location scouts were searching for a futuristic cityscape to set the third installment of this sci-fi reboot saga, Dubai must have stuck out immediately. Its Tomorrowland architecture, fast cars, smart city credentials and metro stations that look straight outta 3026 make it the perfect candidate for offering a glimpse of what’s to come. So much so, that while many of the scenes were digitally enhanced, we recognised countless locations. JLT, DIFC and the Burj Khalifa all star alongside the cast’s own big names, including Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, Karl Urban, Zoe Saldana, Idris Elba and Anton Yelchin.

Furious 7 (2015)

Love them or hate them, Fast and Furious movies are a big deal at the box office. And the seventh installment of the franchise, Furious 7, takes some of its road rage out on the cinematic streets of our capital. In one of the more physics-defying scenes from a series known for playing fast and loose with the laws of nature, Brian O’Conner (Paul Walker) and Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) take a Lykan Hypersport car and jump between the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. Twice. This movie was sadly Paul Walker’s last, as he tragically passed away during filming. Impressive CGI rendering was used to fill in his final scenes to make for an emotional farewell.

F1: The Movie (2025)

Brad Pitt jumps into the driving seat of this Joseph Kosinski-directed high-stakes, overheated-brakes racing movie. The story is traditionally sports film coded: a veteran Formula One driver Sonny Hayes (Pitt) is pulled out of retirement for one last shot at the big time. There are personal and professional highs and lows, a challenging mentorship and Sonny subliminally learns how to be a better person along the way. One of the key aspects of this movie is how poetically it translates the pole-seeking driving experience to screen. That and the boatload of real world racer cameos. The genuine F1 world circuit tracks are also drafted in to add authenticity to the project, and even those who have skipped the whole Drive to Survive phenomenon, would probably be able to tell you which city hosts the thrilling conclusion to each season… Yep, our own Abu Dhabi, the footage for which was captured at the actual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December 2024, Yas Marina Circuit.

Gran Turismo (2023)

Whilst this isn’t a straight movie adaptation of the game, as Gran Turismo doesn’t have a plotline, the Gran Turismo movie follows the story of how a videogame changed a young man’s fortunes. This is the miraculous real-life tale of Jann Mardenborough (played by Archie Madekwe). Jann was an elite gamer, a Gran Turismo grandmaster who was recruited into a racing academy on a marketing exec’s (Danny Moore, played by Orlando Bloom) gut intuition that good gamers might make good drivers. It’s directed by Neill Blomkamp (District 9, Elysium) and the cast list also includes David Harbour, and Josha Stradowski. One of the movie’s key scenes is filmed right here in the Dubai Autodrome, faithfully retelling a turning point in Mardenborough’s career.

Race 3 (2018)

Race 3 was not the first and certainly won’t be the last of the big-budget Indian movies shot in Abu Dhabi. This explosive action flick has a cast list that includes Bollywood legends Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Bobby Deol. The story follows an uncle and nephew team who are embroiled in the arms trade. They battle with ferocious competitors, betrayals and a dream to return to India safely. The movie was shot in six different locations in the capital, including Emirates Palace, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island (at the time known as Yas Viceroy), the St Regis Abu Dhabi, ADNEC, Emirates Steel and Liwa.

Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)

We always knew the force was strong with Abu Dhabi, but did you know the planet of Jakku – where we first meet Rey (Daisy Ridley), the central protagonist of the concluding Skywalker Star Wars Trilogy – is actually Abu Dhabi? Or at least that’s where those scenes were filmed. Star Wars is one of the biggest movie franchises of all time, so having your location immortalised as part of the saga is a pretty big deal. Abu Dhabi actually gets a name check in the movie too, during a conversation with companion Finn (John Boyega), Rey refers to a location called ‘Liwa Outpost’. A kestral run we can plug into our sat nav, and make in less than 12 parsecs.

COMING TO A SCREEN, FROM A SHOOT LOCATION NEAR YOU, SOON…

Dune 3

Paul Atreides really has been through it in the last two Dune movies, but if the third film sticks to its genesis text, Dune Messiah (Frank Herbert), life is only going to get more complicated for the Fremen avenger. Ruling empires isn’t all tea and spice-packed crumpets, it turns out, and with the intergalactic social contact on the verge of total disintegration, some tough decisions will have to be made. We’re just going on the book, though, all we have in terms of hard facts for the movie is that NakoaWolf Momoa, Ida Brooke and Robert Pattinson are joining the cast, and that filming wrapped in November 2025, with a considerable quantity of it (as with the first two films) taking place in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa.

An as-yet-untitled Jack Ryan

movie

Back in February 2025, ex-The Office funny man John Krasinski was spotted filming in Dubai. Thanks to a post on the actor’s Instagram account, we later discovered that the shoot was to be part of an upcoming Jack Ryan movie. Krasinski has already portrayed the character created by author Tom Clancy in four seasons of an Prime Video series. The show has now come to an end, but fans can now breathe a sigh of relief at the news, that one-manarmy Jack will be back saving the world in a feature-length installment of classic Clancy-inspired espionage.

THE MAN RUNNING THE SEVEN EMIRATES p60 DUBAI’S BEST JOG SPOTS p62 WE SWEAT TEST THE NEW J CLUB PASS p64

Wellness calendar

WWORDS: LANA DU

Inside the city’s self-care calendar and how we’re showing ourselves some love

e’re only in the second month of 2026 and wellness is already part of the daily conversation. In Dubai, it’s showing up in mindful, practical ways – from science-led discussions around longevity to movement and mental clarity. Wellness, at its core, is a form of self-love: the quiet, consistent choices that help us feel our best. This February, here’s how the city is putting that into practice.

Matcha Club Dubai

If you’re looking for new ways to move, stretch and reset, Matcha Club Dubai brings warm and heated classes in Sculpt, Power Pilates, Yin, Deep Stretch and Vinyasa Flow. Each 50-minute session happens in a softly heated studio that loosens muscles, improves mobility and encourages fluid, controlled movement. Whether you’re going all out for a full-body burn, focusing on core and lower-body work, or settling into a slower restorative stretch, there’s a class to match your mood – and you’ll leave energised and ready for the week ahead.

Where: Matcha Club Dubai, Al Quoz.

When: Daily classes from 8am to 7pm – see the full schedule at matcha-club.com

Cost: Discovery class Dhs95; single class Dhs115; 5-class pack Dhs475 (interchangeable across all classes).

Contact: @matchadxb

TATTU Dubai x SEVEN Wellness Club

Start your Saturday with Pilates above the city at TATTU Dubai’s Sky Pool. SEVEN Wellness Club leads a focused, energising class that stretches, strengthens and resets you with stunning city views all around. Round off with a refreshing drink and if you’re feeling indulgent, stick around on a sunbed by the pool and enjoy light bites and sips.

Where: TATTU Dubai, Sky Pool.

When: Every Saturday, 8.15am

Cost: From Dhs175 (Pilates + drink); Dhs425 (Pilates + drink + single sunbed 9.30am to 1.30pm, Dhs100 redeemable on F&B).

Contact: @tattudubai @sevenwellness

Lagree Fitness weeklong event

Lagree Fitness brings its signature high-intensity, low-impact workout to Dubai and Abu Dhabi for the first time. Led by Sebastien Lagree on the patented Lagree Microformer, each 30-40-minute session sculpts, strengthens, and tones without straining the joints. Across five breathtaking locations, 200+ fitness enthusiasts, influencers and celebrities will come together, with select events featuring exclusive afterparties, a Guinness World Record attempt and a global livestream for those following from afar.

When: February 1-6.

Where: DIFC under The Gate, Dubai Airport Runway, BeBeach, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Aquarium Abu Dhabi. Contact: lagreefitness.com

Vibe at ReFIVE

At ReFIVE, it’s all about focused, results-driven reformer Pilates. Small classes guide you through movements that sculpt, strengthen and energise, with instructors who pay attention to every detail. Sundays are for Soulful Sunday – the perfect way to move, reset and unwind with Pilates followed by spa access, ice baths, and steam. Pair your session with a matcha, protein shake, or cold-pressed juice from Detox Me Café, making it a workout that leaves you feeling good inside and out.

When: Monday to Friday, 7am to 10am and 5pm to 7pm; Saturday & Sunday, 8am to 10am and 5pm to 7pm.

Where: ReFIVE Pilates Studio, FIVE Palm Jumeirah.

Cost: Group classes from Dhs165 (Single class); 3–20 class packs from Dhs480; private classes from Dhs450; Soulful Sunday experiences from Dhs295.

Contact: @moveatfive

Floating immersive breathwork

High above the city, this floating breathwork session combines guided breathwork with immersive sound therapy, all while overlooking Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Using noise-cancelling headphones and a curated soundscape, the experience is designed to calm the nervous system, with the floating element adding another layer of calm that carries through the session.

Where: Aura Skypool, St. Regis Hotel, The Palm Tower, 50th floor, Palm Jumeirah

When: Saturday, February 14, 6.30am; Every Sunday, 8pm to 10pm

Cost: From Dhs400 per person

Contact: auraskypool.dubai

Cross Country

Mental toughness, fresh socks and Pot Noodles will be crucial in Michael Logue’s record-breaking attempt to run across the UAE in under five days

WORDS: ROB CHILTON

Michael Logue sips a sparkling water and puts his feet up. He’s having a rest day.

Two days before meeting What’s On, the Englishman ran 50K in 4 hours and 10 minutes in preparation for the hardest challenge of his life. On February 21 Logue will attempt to run from Fujairah across the seven Emirates to the UAE/

Saudi Arabia border in under five days, a distance of 630K. That’s the equivalent of running three marathons every day. For five days

“The current record is five days and 11 hours… but I want to do it in under five days, even if my time is four days, 23 hours and 59 minutes. If I don’t … I’ll be furious,” he smiles.

The 33-year-old plans to start each day at 3am. On completing a 10K block he’ll take a food break, which could be crisps, cans of Coca-Cola or Pot Noodles – a nutritionist’s nightmare. “I need food with a good amount of calories that’s easy to digest,” he explains.

After his recent 50K – his first ever ultra marathon – Logue immediately went to McDonald’s and ordered a large Big Mac meal, two double cheeseburgers, a spicy chicken burger, and six chicken nuggets. “I demolished it,” he says with a grin.

On The Road

Accompanying Logue on his challenge will be a support team including a sports therapist, three videographers, a driver, an admin assistant, and his girlfriend Marie. “She’s aware I might have tantrums here and there,” smiles Logue. Leading the team is Chris Taylor, a former colleague from the Royal Marines who’ll shadow Logue on a bicycle. Taylor has completed endurance challenges himself and has supported other athletes on theirs. Logue has always loved running and made the England youth athletics squad as a teenager before injuries curtailed his prospects. “When I was younger,” he says, “if I was in a bad mood, my mum would tell me to go for a run. When I run I go into a meditative state and I’m in my own bubble.”

Push It

01 Trainers: “I’ll bring 10 to 15 pairs of Saucony shoes. Some will be carbon plated and some will be easy running shoes.”

Five years in the Royal Marines equipped Logue to handle mental and physical hardship better than most. He recalls one training exercise in which he had to spend five days on the run from teams of trackers and dogs, in deep English winter. At the end of the punishing week, Logue was subjected to a mock interrogation in which he had to remember a detailed backstory.

“In terms of fitness and mental toughness, I’d say I’m probably as good as anyone can be.” This grit has helped Logue win numerous international Hyrox events and endurance races, experiences which he channels into his work with clients at Athlete Fitness Dubai, the gym he owns in Al Quoz.

As he enters the final few weeks of training, Logue says, “My biggest fear is failure. I won’t be embarrassed if I fail, but I’ve set myself up to finish this. I’m sure every day I’ll wake up and think what I’m doing is pretty stupid.”

KIT LIST

02 Clothing: “I’ll bring about 20 shorts, 20 tops, and 20 pairs of socks from a French brand called Cruel Pancake.”

03 Oakley sunglasses.

04 Hat and SPF: “I went for a run the other day and got sunstroke, which knocked me out

What do you pack to run 630K in five days? and got sunstroke, Michael Logue

for a full day, so a hat is important.”

05 Apple AirPods: “I’ll listen to audiobooks, podcasts, music and maybe some talks from [motivational speaker] David Goggins.”

06 Runner’s belt.

07 High vis jacket: “I’ll need this in the evenings. We’ve booked hotels that are either on the side of the road or a 10-minute drive away.”

SOLE CITY

The best places to put your laces through their paces and join races in Dubai WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE

JOIN THE CLUB

There are lots of reasons to start running, including but not limited to: it’s a great all-round form of exercise, you can do it almost anywhere with minimal equipment, it gets you outside and (heavily) breathing fresh air, avoiding pursuing bears, and making tight connection times in unfamiliar airports. There are only really two main reasons why you shouldn’t – you’re physically unable to and it looks hard. And we’d argue the second of those is actually a reason to do it. If you’re keen to try, or are already a fully signed up member of the sole patrol, Dubai offers up some truly fantastic places to squeeze PBs and blitz those splits. These are best ways to keep your fitness goals on track in 2026.

Kite Beach

Running can be a social event, especially if you keep your heart rate in zone two and are capable of stringing sentences together. These are just some of the best run clubs in Dubai operating weekly group sweat sessions. Consult their social channels for scheduled start times and locations.

@jumeirahjohnsrunningclub, @dubaicreekstriders, and @desertroadrunners (membership fee applies).

This shoreline community hub is positively brimming with big leisure attractions. There are plenty of restaurants strewn along the sandy stretch where you can indulge your feast mode, but it’s the opportunities for activating your beast mode that really set this coastal enclave apart from its peers. Not far from the water’s edge you’ll find an 8km (with some change) long rubber-topped running track that’s kind on the knees, and blessed by a soothing sea breeze. If you want a slightly longer run, you can tag on a Dubai Canal sector – taking you through the heart of Business Bay. kitebeach.ae

Hatta

There aren’t many places you can do incline training in Dubai, it’s a famously flat city. But head to the hiking trails of Hatta and you’ll find a quad-bothering plethora of ups and downs. It’s where Ultra Trail Dubai hold their races, so just make sure you prebook a celebratory ice bath for the following day. For something a little less intense, Hatta Hill Park has its own cushioned track, and whilst (as the name suggests) Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre was built with wheeled access in mind, runners are welcome to attack the challenging climbs.

Al Ittihad Park

Found on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah, along the Golden Mile, Al Ittihad Park is a leafy leisure oasis filled with ways to help you chase down your fitness goals. The running track takes you on a loop that passes monorail stations and two separate shopping malls (Nakheel Mall and Golden Mile Galleria). Along the way, you’ll find gym equipment to help you mix up up your workout with some cross-training variety. If you want to go the extra Golden Mile, the Palm West boardwalk is just over the road.

Barsha Pond Park

Found, unsurprisingly, in Barsha (opposite Barsha Mall) and staged, equally unsurprisingly, around a giant pond, Barsha Pond Park would be our pick for putting together a Rocky-style training montage in Dubai. It’s free to access and in addition to the bounce back running track, has a whole load of open green space for aggressive warm up lunging and jumpers-for-goal-posts five-a-siding.

A TRAIL OF TWO TOWERS

Race ready? After a hugely popular first outing in 2024, the Burj2Burj is back this month for its third urban half-marathon session. It’s a run that asks runners to complete a route between two of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Starting at the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalif,a the temporary track passes live music stations and some breathtaking views before a photo finish in the shadow of the stunning Burj Al Arab.

Sunday Feb 8, Dhs320. burj2burj.com

TRIED AND TESTED

PART OF THE CLUB

What’s On contributor Laura Coughlin puts a highend lifestyle gym membership to the test – and weighs up whether it’s really worth the splurge

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

By February, the January bravado has usually fizzled out. Fitness plans are abandoned, the alarm snoozed and “this is my year” has quietly evolved into “I’ll try again on Monday”. Which is exactly when a full reinvention suddenly feels justified. Enter J Club: a gym membership that promises better workouts and a better way of living. So, we went along for a trial day to see whether the luxury price point is justified.

FIRST UP

J Club has an air of old-school Dubai about it – exclusive without being intimidating, polished without being flashy. Think Dubai Offshore Sailing Club energy, but with fewer hoops to jump through. Membership grants access to two gyms across Mina A’Salam and Jumeirah Beach Hotel, alongside beaches, pools, spa privileges, dining discounts and even hotel stay perks across the wider Jumeirah Group portfolio. In practice, it replaces several memberships at once – gym, beach

club, lap pool, recovery space and social hub – which is where the value equation starts to shift.

The Mina A’Salam gym feels calm and quietly confident. Set among lush gardens, it’s compact but thoughtfully designed, with excellent equipment, a proper indoor lap pool and a snow room that makes post-workout recovery feel borderline luxurious. The crowd skews slightly older, in a reassuring and less intimidating kind of way. At one point, a staff member glided past with a tray of electrolyte shots, offering a quick liquid boost. It’s a small, thoughtful flourish, and not something your average gym is serving up between sets.

GETTING HIGHER

A short buggy ride away, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel gym feels more hightech. Built on the former Mahiki site, it’s brighter and sleeker. The circular, spaceship-like layout means treadmills and step machines face straight out to the Burj Al Arab and the sea – a view that genuinely makes cardio more bearable. There’s also a dedicated recovery zone with leg compression boots, which feels like a small but meaningful flex.

Both locations boast excellent lap pools – one indoor, one outdoor, a rarity in Dubai gyms – alongside private beach access. It reframes exercise as part of a wider rhythm: train, swim, recover, repeat. Add in packed group classes spanning yoga, Pilates, spin, boxing and a surprisingly spirited Zumba, plus a solid café at Jumeirah Beach Hotel that encourages lingering, and the lifestyle pitch starts to make sense.

IS IT SPENNY?

At Dhs51,500 for a one-year individual membership, sure. But J Club isn’t really just about fitness. It’s selling consistency, ease and a full lifestyle reinvention. And if February is when you decide to do things properly, this is one upgrade that may well genuinely earn its price tag.

J Club, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Dubai. Membership packages start at Dhs51,500 for one year. Couple and family memberships are also available. Tel: (04) 406 8872. thejclub.com

Attractions

Activities

Dining

Health

Education

Entertainment

Real

Hotels

Shopping

The

DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS

GOING Places

Food, culture, tech and adventure – the travel moments not to miss in 2026

WORDS: YI-HWA HANNA

01

Take a street food tour

Street food offers one of the fastest ways to understand a place – it’s a glimpse into the cultural soul of how people eat and gather day to day. One of the best ways to experience the melting pot of the UAE’s expat-rich culture is with Frying Pan Adventures, compressing history and delicious bites into a few walkable hours. Eating at hidden gems where locals eat offers a unique insight beyond the headline attractions. Whether you’re passing through on a business trip, on holiday, or just playing tourist as you rediscover the city, street food tours make a compelling case for stepping off the usual route.

Soothe

your soul

Rev your engines

skyscraper features the region’s tallest ceramic façade, with fins that shade and cool the building, reducing energy use. This mixed-use icon combines luxury residences and offices as well as the Mandarin Oriental Downtown hotel, creating a truly dynamic urban hub with unique twisting architecture, vertical gardens and advanced eco-tech. 02

Motorsport distils speed, strategy and innovation into a high-stakes environment where every second counts, and events like the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Bahrain Grand Prix are powerful drivers for the regional tourism industry. F1’s 2026 season will once again feature 24 rounds that begin in Melbourne, Australia on 6 March, and conclude in Abu Dhabi, UAE on 6 December. The Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 will take place from 10-12 April in Sakhir.

Wellness travel increasingly focuses on ways to regulate our stress, sleep, attention and nervous systems, rather than indulgence. Taking place amidst the natural wonders of the ancient landscape, AlUla Wellness Festival – which typically runs for about two weeks – offers holistic experiences like yoga, meditation, music and desert adventures alongside fitness classes. While the 2026 edition’s dates have yet to be announced, the festival is typically held from late October to early November.

04

Check out an architectural marvel

The Middle East is home to some truly inspiring modern architectural feats and one of its latest is Dubai’s new Wasl Tower. This groundbreaking sustainable

05

Expand your musical

horizons

Some of the best music festivals to put on your calendar are Sole DXB – set to return for its 14th edition at Dubai Design District in December; UNTOLD Dubai, which will take place from 5-8 November; and the debut of India’s Sunburn Festival in Abu Dhabi in December.

06

Immerse into nature

In Saudi, the UNESCO-recognised Taif Rose Festival closes its rosepicking season each April, offering a chance to learn how its fragrant Damask rose is used in food, perfume, and more. In Jordan, Yarmouk Eco Lodge – a new sustainable tourism project by Jordan’s Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature and EcoHotels in the Yarmouk Biosphere Forest Reserve – is set to open in 2026.

07

Travel by rail

Etihad Rail is set to enter its passenger era in 2026. The 900km network connecting all seven emirates will begin carrying passengers from the Saudi border to Fujairah, initially linking 11 cities across the country. Saudi Arabia’s first ultra-luxury train, Dream of the Desert, will also launch in 2026 and will operate five curated routes across the kingdom, complete with fine dining.

08

Take a flying taxi

Dubai will be launching its first commercial air taxi services in early 2026. The service will be bookable via an app, with rides priced akin to premium ride-hailing services. There are four vertiports scheduled within the initial network, at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina.

09

Up your style quotient

While we’ll have to wait until 2027 for the next edition of Dubai Watch Week, in 2026, you can catch the brand-new Dubai Mall Festival of Fashion from 29-30 January, and Dubai Fashion Week from 1-6 February.

Be well-read

The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature – the Arab World’s largest celebration of the written and spoken word – has evolved into a major cultural anchor in the region and the 2026 edition will be held at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City from 21 to 27 January.

Witness a world first

When plans for Dubai’s first-ever 3D printed mosque were first announced in January 2023, the news made headlines around the world. This landmark project is a world-first, as the first fully-functional mosque built with 3D printing technology. Designed by JT+Partners, it can hold up to 499 worshippers and is expected to open by the second quarter of 2026.

12

Walk the red carpet

Events such as the Red Sea International Film Festival, Istanbul Film Festival, and El Gouna Film Festival place the Middle East firmly within the global cinematic circuit, spotlighting regional talent alongside international premieres.

13

Travel by water

Cruises can give us a sense of efficiency by offering the chance to visit multiple destinations without having to deal with constant packing, airport transfers, or logistics. New itineraries entering Middle Eastern ports include those by Celestyal, MSC Cruises and Saudi Arabia’s homegrown AROYA Cruises.

14

Take a thrill ride

Having opened at the very end of 2025, Six Flags in Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya is an immense new tourism attraction that represents the kingdom’s push to anchor entertainment within large-scale economic diversification. The park has six themed lands, 28 rides and the world’s fastest, tallest, and longest roller coaster.

15

Experience the tech of the future

The Middle East is fast emerging as one of the most tech-forward corners of the world, and the region’s innovation hubs –such as the upcoming Jaddaf Urban Tech District, a net-zero carbon innovation hub set to be the world’s largest urban tech district – provide insight into where industries – and careers – are heading. Events such as LEAP and DeepFest in Saudi Arabia, Dubai Esports and Games Festival, and the Dubai Future Foundation’s annual Dubai Future Forum bring together technologists, pioneers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and investors shaping tomorrow’s systems.

16

Watch the game of inches

Elite sport is a masterclass in marginal gains and there are few better ways to enjoy this than with a good game of golf. Tournaments such as the LIV Golf Riyadh (next held from 4 to 7 February at Riyadh Golf Club) attract the world’s top players, along with a host of global business leaders and decision-makers keen to network beyond the fairways.

Embrace mountain life

The Middle East’s mountain regions give residents and travellers alike the chance for respite from the intensity of our urban environments. Destinations such as Hatta, Jebel Hafeet, Ras Al Khaimah, and Saudi Arabia’s emerging Aseer region continue to combine outdoor adventure with growing hospitality infrastructure, from glamping experiences that allow you to see the night sky to the world’s longest zipline.

19

Indulge in fine food

The Middle East’s dining scene continues to mature, with chef-driven concepts, hyper-local sourcing and experimental formats gaining momentum. The Michelin Guide Food Festival brings together a range of world-class chefs, signature dishes and culinary creativity that foodies won’t want to miss, taking place in the grounds of Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in late October or November each year.

20

17

Treat your inner AV geek

While the Dubai Airshow only takes place once every two years – and its next edition won’t be until 2027 – in the meantime, events such as MEBAA (8-10 December at the UAE’s DWC Dubai Airshow Site), Air Expo Abu Dhabi (October, at Abu Dhabi’s ADNEC Centre), and SAHA Istanbul (5-9 May at Istanbul Expo Centre, Türkiye) are all taking place again in 2026, ready to wow aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Dine by fire

Fire-based cooking is one of humanity’s oldest culinary techniques and its recent revival speaks to a growing desire for authenticity and elemental experiences. Try it at Ras Al Khaimah’s Red Rock BBQ, a rugged open-flame experience that uses locally-sourced ingredients in a menu inspired by the emirate’s geology and flora.

21

Surf in the desert

Learn a new skill by going surfing at one of the UAE’s world-class facilities that allow you to surf in the desert. Surf Abu Dhabi boasts the world’s longest and most advanced man-made wave pool, while in Dubai, the highlyanticipated Surfbase Dubai is expected to open in 2026, which will be the city’s first-ever indoor surfing spot. Located at CityLand Mall, it’s planned to be the world’s largest indoor surf club, with a wave machine capable of producing waves up to 3m high and 30m wide. In Saudi Arabia, Surftopia – the country’s first surf park – is in Qiddiya City and uses tech from Endless Surf: a pneumatic system-based next-gen wave pool technology also used at o2 SURFTOWN MUC in Germany, and that will feature at the UK’s upcoming Surf London.

22

Fly a new airline

Riyadh Air’s much-anticipated launch at the end of 2025 marks a significant moment in Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions. The airline continues to expand its fleet this year.

Travel to the past

Get your history fix by visiting the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, which opened in late 2025. Part of the Saadiyat Island Cultural district, among the 18 immersive galleries and experiences that take you through 13.8 billion years of science and discovery. For an immersive experience, Egypt’s Abu Simbel Sun Festival offers a unique, hands-on way to experience the past: this bi-annual event takes place at the temple of Rameses II, when the sun’s rays align perfectly to beam into the building, lighting up statues deep within its innermost rooms. Thousands of tourists head to the ancient destination to witness this spectacular experience every year, when it takes place on 22 February and 22 October.

24

Stay in a new hotel

The Middle East continues to expand its pipeline of hotels, from ultra-luxury resorts to thoughtfully designed urban properties. Some key names to look out for include: Kimpton Dubai; Lux* Khorfakkan; Six Senses AMAALA; Rotana Ras Al Khaimah – The Mangroves; Rosewood AMAALA; Tivoli La Vie Muscat Hotel; Mondrian Abu Dhabi; Raffles Jeddah; SO/ Jeddah; Four Seasons Resort Ajman at Al Zorah; W Riyadh; Conrad Riyadh Laysen Valley; Six Senses The Palm Dubai; Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi; Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection – The Heart of Europe Dubai; Baccarat Dubai; and Saij, A Mantis Collection Mountain Lodge, Ras Al Khaimah.

25

Be a culture vulture

From 5-7 February, Art Basel Qatar – the renowned art show’s debut in MENASA – positions the region firmly within the global art circuit as it attracts collectors, curators, and creatives.

26

Shop ‘til you drop

Dubai Mall expanded last year with a new wing – and upgraded its famous fountain. Whether you’re enjoying a bit of retail therapy between meetings, catching up with a colleague at one of the mall’s 200+ dining venues, or enjoying its entertainment facilities with your family, it’s a prime representation of the UAE’s thriving experience-led economy.

SO/ Ras Al Khaimah

A resort elevating the allinclusive concept

WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN

THE SETTING

At the gateway to Marjan Island sits SO/ Ras Al Khaimah, the first in a series of high-profile openings coming to the isle over the next 18 months. The beachfront property unrolls along Marjan Beach, and is cleverly designed so that all of its rooms, suites and leisure facilities face the sea and the rapidly-changing Marjan Island skyline.

THE ARRIVAL

We’re welcomed into a bright, kaleidoscopically-hued lobby that leans into SO/ Hotels’ stylish roots. Check-in is swift and friendly, a watermelon juice and a refreshing towel greet us while the all-inclusive concept – and the roster of activities available during our stay – are explained. But should you happen to forget, everything is accessible on the QR code handily printed on the room key.

THE ROOM

We’re upgraded to a ninth-floor signature club room. It’s bright and spacious, flooded with natural light from the stretching sea views. Where the public spaces are a rainbow of colour, our room is more muted, calmer, its colour palette inspired by the desert and ocean landscapes of the emirate. The balcony looking out over the expansive resort grounds serves as a great spot to

watch the sun set, and we loved the nightly turndown service where a silky scrunchie and eye mask were left on the pillow.

THE FOOD AND DRINK

Elevating the all-inclusive concept far beyond a boring buffet, there are plenty of places to eat and drink. The Market serves as a typical all-day dining restaurant, with modern interiors and an expansive terrace, serving a plentiful breakfast buffet that showcases fragrant curries and pizza as well as all the typical breakfast dishes. For lunch, we head to Cabini, set adjacent to the family pool, where crowd-pleasing eats include nachos with homemade guacamole and a steak sandwich served with chunky chips. Dinner at Chiano, a beautiful Italian restaurant, is a real highlight. Although it’s too cold to enjoy the pretty alfresco terrace, the cosy vibe inside is instantly welcoming. We peruse the à la carte menu before ordering a creamy mushroom risotto with subtle truffle notes and a beef ragu – both are excellent. For dessert, the deconstructed pavlova is a must-try.

Those looking to make the most of the all-inclusive offering can expect plenty of bars, from the sultrily lit Savant on the top

floor to Bungalow, which sits next to the adults-only pool.

A special mention should be given to the entertainment – despite the hotel’s infancy, music has been well curated across the property, from the sounds of a harp playing during afternoon tea at The Concept Store – SO/ Ras Al Khaimah’s lobby lounge, to an electric violin at Chiano and live percussion poolside at adults-only

THE ACTIVITIES

Two pools, a children’s splash pool, a golden stretch of beach lined with loungers – this resort is made to make the most of its seaside location. Although it’s worth noting the pools don’t get sun until the afternoon, so mornings are best enjoyed on the beach. Alongside the sea-facing fitness centre, impressive outdoor gym complete with juice bar and a pavilion for instructor-led workouts, the daily fitness activities also include boxing classes, water aerobics, aerial yoga and a retreat experience, the latter we join for a rejuvenating Sunday morning of yoga and breathwork.

There’s also daily art workshops, which range from candle making to vision boarding and ceramic sculpture – so it’s impossible to get bored.

WHAT’S ON THE BILL

A one-night stay in February starts from Dhs2,250 based on an entry-level Sea View all-inclusive room.

THE DEETS

Location: Marjan Beach, Ras Al Khaimah

Check-in and check-out: Check in is at 3pm and check out at 12pm.

Contact: Tel: (0)7 202 9999. so-hotels.com/ ras-al-khaimah

Editor-in-Chief

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

Managing Partner & Group Editor lan Fairservice

Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne

Group Content Director Thomas Woodgate | Thomas.Woodgate@motivate.ae

Arts & Culture

EDITORIAL

Deputy Editor, Dubai

Madie Murphy | madie.murphy@motivate.ae

Features Editor

Aarti Saundalkar

Reporter

Lana Du

Senior Online Reporter

Jumira Hancock

Online Reporter

Afrah Bari

Online Reporter

Rasha Hassan

Art Director

Sheila Deocareza

CONTRIBUTORS DESIGN

Alice Holtham-Pargin, Laura Coughlin

COMMERCIAL

Features Editor, Abu Dhabi Leonie Wagner

Junior Reporter

Sammi Barnard

Commercial Director, Dubai & Northern Emirates

Violeta Popescu | violeta.popescu@motivate.ae

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Pamela Bayram | pamela.bayram@motivate.ae

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PRODUCTION

General Manager – Production

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Production Manager

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05 About Ramadan

08 Iftars in Abu Dhabi

26 Iftars in Dubai

77 Iftars in the Northern Emirates

About Ramadan KNOW YOUR STUFF

Ramadan is likely to begin on February 18 (depending on the sighting of the crescent moon), with Eid al-Fitr celebrations expected to commence on March 20. Even if you’re not personally observing Ramadan, it’s still important to be respectful towards those who are. Here’s what you need to know...

What is Ramadan?

The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is a time when Muslims around the world abstain from eating, drinking or smoking between sunrise and sunset.

Lasting about a month, it marks the time when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Extra tarawih prayers are performed at the mosque throughout Ramadan and each evening 1/30th of the holy book is recited. By the end of Ramadan, observers will have read the entire Qur’an.

Why is Ramadan so important to Muslims?

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, considered mandatory by believers. The pillars are the framework by which Muslims everywhere live, and Ramadan is considered the holiest time in the Islamic calendar. It

is a time for prayer, reflection and religious devotion, to cleanse past sins and to focus on Allah through good deeds.

Why do Muslims fast?

Fasting, or sawn, loosely translates as ‘to refrain’. So during Ramadan Muslims commit to not eating, drinking or smoking during daylight hours. But sawn isn’t just about physical restraint, it also refers to bad thoughts, actions and words.

Ramadan is often a time to spend with family, breaking fast at sunset. The fast itself is intended to help Muslims learn about selfdiscipline and enable them to empathise with those who have less.

Must everyone fast?

For Muslims, everyone is required to fast, but there are exceptions. Young children, pregnant women and the elderly and infirm

KNOW YOUR STUFF

are not required to fast due to possible health complications. Women on their monthly cycle do not fast, nor do people who are ill. If there is a temporary break in the fast, Muslims are required to make up the missed days after Ramadan.

Non-Muslims are not required to fast. However, they should behave sensitively throughout Ramadan, and be consierate of those around them who may be fasting during the Holy Month.

Does everything close during the day?

Restaurants largely remain open during Ramadan, but may change their opening times, so it’s best to call ahead at the venue. Everything

tends to happen much later in the day during Ramadan. Malls stay open later than usual. Some restaurants also may stay open later, to accommodate for suhoor. Ramadan tents are also a popular addition to many restaurants and hotels.

Do I need to do anything differently during the day?

It’s important for everyone to dress and behave appropriately during the Holy Month. Even those who aren’t fasting should make sure that their clothes are modest, covering shoulders, chest and knees. Keep music levels down to a minimum and, of course, no public displays of affection. 01

Testimony of faith

Religious devotion to Allah as the one God and Mohammad (PBUH) as the messenger. 02 Prayer

The promise to pray at the required five times every day.

03 Zakat Muslims are taught to give a certain percentage of their wealth to charity.

RAMADAN GLOSSARY PILLARS OF ISLAM

IFTAR

The meal at sunset when Muslims break their daytime fast.

SUHOOR

Technically the meal before sunrise before Muslims start fasting. Much more laid back than iftar, suhoor often starts late at night and runs into the early hours of the morning.

HILAL

The thin crescent moon marking the beginning of a new month in the Islamic calendar, which is used to predict the start of Ramadan.

SUNNAH

The teachings and practices of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Eating dates to break fast, for example, is a sunnah.

04

Fasting during Ramadan

This is an annual commitment that Muslims follow. 05

Pilgrimage to Mecca

All Muslims are obliged to do hajj, the trip to Mecca, at least once in a lifetime.

IFTARS IN ABU DHABI

WHERE TO BREAK YOUR FAST

Ramadan Nights I ar under the stars

Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa has announced its Ramadan Iftar offering, "Ramadan Nights: Iftar Under the Stars," available throughout the holy month at La Piscine.

The Iftar is priced at AED 245 per person on weekdays and AED 260 per person on weekends. Children aged 5 to 12 years receive 50% off, while children below 5 years dine complimentary.

Guests can enjoy favourites from the Sushi Corner, alongside Arabic hot and cold mezzeh, an Ouzy corner, and an Arabic mixed grill and carving station. The experience is hosted at La Piscine's beachfront and poolside outdoor restaurant lounge, featuring private gazebos and a relaxed, open-air setting.

A range of special offers is available during Ramadan. Guests can enjoy 15% off with the Early Bird offer when bookings are confirmed with a deposit before the start of Ramadan. For group bookings, one guest dines complimentary for every 10 full-paying adults.

Location: La Piscine, Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi

Price: AED 245 (weekdays) | AED 260 (weekends)

For Reservations

Call or Whatsapp, +971 56 545 0274

Email:

fbsecretary.alraha@danathotels.com

ABU DHABI IFTARS

The Abu Dhabi EDITION

Try the sunset spread at Market, running daily during Ramadan. The seating set-up deftly blurs the line between indoor comfort and open-air ease, and it’s paired with a rich buffet feast of festive flavours to start, and mains that are served to the table.

The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen, sunset to 9pm, Dhs220. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @abudhabiedition

Abu Dhabi Golf Resort

Choose between an outdoor and indoor iftar at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort. Relax, eat, enjoy with family and friends and bask in the ambiance of live Oud and violin players.

Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 9pm, Dhs255, Dhs99 children five to 12. Tel: (0)56 536 8629.

@vogoabudhabigolfresort

Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa

Try an iftar under the stars at La Piscine’s beachfront and poolside restaurant lounge, featuring private gazebos and a relaxed, open-air setting. Guests can enjoy favourites such as Arabic mezze, an ouzi corner, and a Middle Eastern mixed grill carving station. Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 11pm, Dhs245 on weekdays, Dhs260 on weekends. Tel: (0)56 545 0274. @alrahabeachresortandspa

Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi

Enjoy iftar with a view at Cyan Brasserie, set on the hotel’s 18th floor. The iftar buffet promises a diverse culinary offering, but still showcases all the traditional sundown classics like lamb ouzi and a shawarma station.

Andaz Abu Dhabi, Al Rawdah, sunset to 9.30pm, Dhs245 week 1 & 4, Dhs285 week 2 & 3. Tel: (0)2 596 1234. @andazabudhabi

ABU DHABI IFTARS

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

Head to Nahaam for a daily iftar this Ramadan, an elegant setting for gatherings with friends, family or colleagues. Enjoy an extensive selection of Arabic delicacies featuring live cooking stations manned by the expert culinary team, as well as some international dishes that cater to all tastes. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs275. Tel: (0)2 811 5666. conradabudhabietihadtowers.com

COYA

Do iftar a little differently with a four-course menu of Latin flavours at COYA. This upscale restaurant in The Galleria will start things off with dates, homemade soup and bread with hummus, followed by a selection of Peruvian appetisers like salmon maki chicken tacos and an array of anticuchos. Select a main from options like Salmon a la brasa or the signature pollo a la parilla, then end with a decadent sharing serving of COYA’s bespoke Torre de Pistachio Ramadan dessert.

COYA Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah, sunset to 8.30pm, D249. Tel: (0)2 306 7000. @coyaabudhabi

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

Taking over the stunning SkyDome, the decadent iftar at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi features over 20 stations, with international dishes, local flavours, and pop-ups from the hotel’s Michelinselected Namak and popular Thai restaurant Benjarong. Taste your way through the signature flavours from across the Arab world, with signature and unique offerings from the Levant, Maghrebi and Egyptian cuisines. Live music and Oud performances add a welcome touch of traditionality to the ambience.

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, from sunset, Dhs240, Dhs110 children aged seven to 12. Tel: (0)2 698 8888. @dusitthaniabudhabi

Erth Abu Dhabi

Try the iftar Al Khaima tent at Erth Abu Dhabi and enjoy a wide range of food from Middle Eastern to international, live music and even some interesting cultural experiences. West Bay Corniche, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 9pm, Dhs295, Dhs150 children six to 12. Tel: (0)2 497 5208. erth.ae

ABU DHABI IFTARS

Em Sherif Café

The iftar set menu for Em Sherif Café, available for Iftar only from 7pm to 9pm, offers a lavish spread of signature dishes including shorbat adas, mloukhiyeh bil zeit, fattet batenjen, taouk, and traditional desserts like em ali and knefeh, all served in a warm, welcoming, and beautifully designed setting. Corniche Road, West Bay, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 9pm, Dhs265. Tel: (0)2 691 9999.

@emsherifcafeabudhabi

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

This palatial address on the edge of the Corniche always puts on a spectacular iftar spread and 2026 is no different. They’re bringing back the beautiful Majlis by the Sea, which will take place at a new location within the resort. But as well as all of the usual gourmet stations and expansive seating areas, this year diners can look forward to pop-ups from the hotel’s acclaimed eateries including Michelinstarred Talea, Hakkasan, and Strawfire. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs365. Tel: (0)2 690 9000. @mo_emiratespalace

Giornotte

Guests can enjoy a sumptuous iftar buffet at Giornotte, featuring authentic Middle Eastern and Emirati dishes, beloved Ramadan classics and international specialities. Live cooking stations bring the experience to life, while the soft strains of the qanun enhance the evening’s ambience. Choose from being seated indoors or on the garden-lined terrace.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, sunset to 10pm, Dhs360, Dhs180 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)2 818 8203. ritzcarlton.com

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl

The lavish iftar at Sahha features a selection of hot and cold mezze and a variety of cuisine, including Arabic, Asian and Indian. Plus, all your usual beloved Ramadan juices. Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs240, Dhs120 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)2 510 1234. @grandhyattabudhabi

Grill House

This Ramadan, Acres Grill House at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club welcomes families and friends to come together for iftar in a setting shaped by community and ease. With both indoor seating and an outdoor terrace under the stars, the experience unfolds against the quiet backdrop of the club’s lush greens. Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 10pm, Dhs165. Tel: (0)50 757 4808. viyagolf.com/ramadan

ABU DHABI IFTARS

Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

Enjoy a relaxed iftar at The Courtyard this Ramadan. Dine alfresco on a curated menu of dishes, such as lamb okra and butter chicken, as well as a selection of traditional mezze and sweet desserts.

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, sunset to 9pm, Dhs210, Dhs105 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)2 208 6900. hilton.com

InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences

Byblos Sur Mer, the four-time Michelinselected Lebanese restaurant, invites guests to enjoy an elevated iftar alfresco. Enjoy the buffet featuring live cooking stations with Lebanese favourites all accompanied by live Arabic music.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences, 6pm to 8pm, Dhs240. Tel: (0)50 721 1079 @interconad

Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Resort

As the sun sets, Le Méridien Village becomes a vibrant setting to break the fast. Enjoy a carefully chosen iftar with all the Ramadan favourites including juices. Their treasured guests have the option to add shisha too.

Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Resort, from sunset, Dhs189. Tel: (0)56 688 5361 @lemeridienabudhabiresort

Iconic Ramadan Tradition

ABU DHABI IFTARS

Li Beirut

Enjoy Li Beirut’s elevated Lebanese flavours and pretty waterfront views this Ramadan. The iftar menu promises mezze, grilled kebabs and decadent Lebanese desserts, with the option to relax after your meal with premium shisha.

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, 6pm to 11pm, Dhs275. Tel: (0)2 811 5666. conradabudhabietihadtowers.com

Mijana

A Michelin Guide restaurant known for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, Mijana presents a deeply rooted Ramadan experience. Guests can break their fast with a curated iftar set menu highlighting rich regional flavours, complemented by the soulful melodies of Oud.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, sunset to 9pm, Dhs210. Tel: (0)2 818 8203. ritzcarlton.com

Ornina Arabian Lounge

Enjoy a four-course iftar on the beautiful terrace of Ornina Arabian Lounge and take in stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It’s full of the best flavours of the Middle East, unlimited Ramadan juices and even live entertainment to add to the atmosphere. Al Bandar, Al Raha Beach, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs165. Tel: (0)50 696 9312 orninalounge. com

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas

In the beautifully landscaped gardens of this luxe Saadyiat Island resort, iftar takes place under the twinkling lights of The Oasis Tent. Enjoy a memorable evening as you dine at an opulent buffet to the soft melodies of the oud and qanun. Foodie highlights include Moroccan tagine, Emirati machboos and Jordanian mansaf, across an array of live cooking stations and decadent displays of salads, mezze and dessert.

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs375, Tel: (0)2 407 1127. parkhyattabudhabi.com

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Inspired by traditional Emirati heritage, enjoy a Bedouin-inspired iftar with a luxury Anantara touch at Al Falaj’s open-air iftar. Set in the grand golden dunes, enjoy a sharingstyle menu that celebrates the rich flavours of the Levant. For iftar in a stunning setting, few compare.

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Liwa Desert, sunset onwards, Dhs485.

Tel: (0)2 886 2088. anantara.com

ABU DHABI IFTARS

Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche

A family-friendly choice, the Grand Iftar Buffet takes place until 9pm and guests are welcomed to enjoy a wide spread of traditional Middle Eastern food and international favourites from the buffet.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche, sunset to 9pm, Dhs199, Dhs99 children. Tel: (0)2 692 4999. radissonhotels.com

Rixos Premium

Saadiyat Island

At the heart of the resort, Turquoise Restaurant offers a warm and spacious option for iftar. Enjoy an abundance of choice at the buffet and decide whether you want to sit indoors or outdoors to relax and eat your fill.

Saadiyat Island, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs399. Tel: (0)2 886 2088. anantara.com

Saadiyat Beach Club

The iftar at Saadiyat Beach takes place on the Cabana Lawn with live Oud music creating a relaxing atmosphere. You can expect hot and cold mezze, salads, live stations with sushi, shawarma, lamb, and a live BBQ station.

Saadiyat Beach Club, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs260, Dhs85 children six to 12 years. Tel: (0)2 656 3500. saadiyatbeachclub.ae

Saadiyat Beach Golf Club

Look forward to an elevated iftar experience served with a side of spectacular Saadiyat Beach views. Enjoy a range of Arabic mezze to start followed by a live BBQ station featuring sizzling meats and seafood, then classic Arabic treats for dessert.

Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, sunset to 10pm, Dhs160. Tel: (0)56 660 8780. viyagolf.com/ Ramadan

ABU DHABI IFTARS

Saffron

Experience the essence of Ramadan in Saffron with authentic Arabic and international menu offerings such as hot and cold mezze, a variety of salads and soups, hearty main courses like lamb ouzi, live cooking, mixed grill, shawarma stations and lots of desserts to try. Pearl Rotana Capital Centre, sunset to 10pm, Dhs195, Dhs97.50 children six to 12 years. Tel: (0)2 307 5553. rotana.com

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort

Guests can break their fast at Flavours, Sheraton’s all-day dining restaurant, with a welcoming Ramadan buffet featuring a selection of traditional favourites and international dishes.

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Corniche Road, from sunset, Dhs186. Tel: (0)54 791 9022 @sheratonabudhabi

RAMADAN AT FAIRUZ GARDEN

Flow Kitchen at Fairmont The Palm brings the spirit of Ramadan to life in Fairuz Garden.

Celebrate the Holy Month with a generous Iftar of Middle Eastern and international favourites, live carving stations, and indulgent desserts, all accompanied by the soulful melodies of a live Oud player—capturing the true essence of Ramadan.

ABU DHABI IFTARS

Southern Sun

Abu Dhabi

Served in Balcon Lounge & Terrace this iftar spread served daily through Ramadan features typical Middle Eastern mezze and an array of live cooking stations manned by the hotel’s culinary team. It’s paired with Ramadan juices and the traditional sounds of the qanun. Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club Area, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs169, Dhs65 children. Tel: (0)56 515 3388. @southernsunad

Strawfire

Experience a refined contemporary twist on the traditional iftar, with Strawfire’s studied fusion of Japanese flavours. Begin with comforting chicken miso soup, crispy vegetable kakiage and sweet potato gyoza, followed by a sublime sushi selection. For the main course, savour

Australian Wagyu MB 4-5 Striploin with Japanese BBQ sauce, crispy vegetable hot stone rice and green beans. End on a sweet note with a Strawfire dessert platter of date pudding, baklava monaja and seasonal fruits.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, 6.30pm to 9pm, Dhs350. Tel: (0)2 690 7999. mandarinoriental.com

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

Garage restaurant in W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island has an iftar buffet featuring an exceptional selection of dishes across five distinct culinary hubs, inspired by flavours from around the world. Yas Island, sunset to 9.30pm, Dhs285, Dhs142.50 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)2 656 0000. @wabudhabi

Yas Links

Gather with loved ones in a relaxing setting overlooking the course’s serene greens and enjoy an iftar buffet that celebrates both local and international flavours. Sunset signals the service of Ramadan juices and lentil soup, then sample an array of hot and cold mezze. For the main event, a live BBQ serves up lamb kofta kebab, sumac-grilled salmon and more. Yas Links, Yas Island, sunset to 10pm, Dhs195. Tel: (0)2 404 3077. viyagolf.com

IFTARS IN DUBAI

WHERE TO BREAK YOUR FAST

DUBAI IFTARS

Address Beach Resort

The Restaurant at Address Beach Resort is a top choice for iftar. The buffet includes a selection of Arabic cold and hot mezze, shawarma, lamb, ouzi, live cooking stations and a delectable dessert spread featuring various traditional Arabic sweets.

Address Beach Resort, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs278, Dhs139 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)4 879 8866. @addressbeachresort

Address Creek Harbour

Where better to enjoy iftar than at Address Grand Creek Harbour, which has arguably one of the city’s most iconic sunset views? Taking place at Luma Pool Lounge, expect buffet-style Middle Eastern dishes followed by an a la carte suhoor offering.

Address Creek Harbour, sunset to 9pm, Dhs350, Dhs175 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 275 8833. @addresscreekharbour

Address Downtown

Enjoy iftar backdropped by the Burj Khalifa at Cetara at Address Downtown. Pick a table outside for the best views and expect an elaborate spread at the excellent buffet. The soft lights and serene surroundings add to the ambience.

Address Downtown, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs325, Dhs160 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 436 8888. @addressdowntown

DUBAI IFTARS

Address Dubai Mall

Dine with stunning Burj Khalifa views at Solara and enjoy a sophisticated iftar feast. There’s a buffet spread of traditional Ramadan dishes for starters and desserts, and for mains enjoy a sharing-style selection served hot from the kitchen.

Address Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs325, Dhs162.50 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 245 8888. addresshotels.com

Address Sky View

Take your pick from an elaborate array of delicacies, global delights and signature dishes, including mezze, sushi, salads, mains, desserts and Ramadan juices.

Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs285. Tel: (0)4 245 8888. @addressskyview

Aelia

Enjoy a full international buffet featuring an elegant selection of cold dishes, live-cooked hot specialties and carefully curated sweet creations. Live cooking stations add to the experience, where you can savour freshly prepared dishes throughout the evening. One&Only One Za’abeel, Trade Centre Area, 5.30 to 8.30pm, Dhs245, Dhs150 children aged four to 12. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @aeliadubai

Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection

Enjoy an evening under the stars on the Grand Garden Lawn of this stalwart JBR beachfront hotel. Under twinkling fairy lights, iftar stations of Arabian dishes offer something for everyone, while the live entertainment adds to the beautiful ambience.

Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection JBR, sunset to 9pm, Dhs245. Tel: (0)50 780 6342.

@alhabtoorgrandresort

Al Habtoor Polo Resort

Enjoy iftar by the neatly manicured polo fields at the Polo Terrace. Expect all the usual suspects: hot and cold mezze, grilled meats and Arabic desserts, all with a stunning backdrop.

Al Habtoor Polo Resort, from 6.30pm, Dhs159. Tel: (0)56 545 8391.

@habtoorpoloresort

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

Do iftar in the desert as it was traditionally observed. Enjoy food on a traditional Arabic coffee table with a selection of cold mezze and salad and then to offerings designed for sharing. Available on February 21 and 28, and March 7 and 14, as well as selected weekdays on February 24 and March 5. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs350, Dhs175 children eight to 11 years. Tel: (0) 4 832 9900. al-maha.com

DUBAI IFTARS

Alaya

Sufret Alaya promises a flavour flight of authentic dishes, reinterpreted with a modern elegance. The DIFC restaurant promises artfully composed dishes that balance authenticity with innovation served in Alaya’s signature atmospheric space with candle-lit interiors and open-air terraces.

Gate Village, DIFC, from sunset, Dhs220. Tel: (0)4 570 6289. alayarestaurants.com

Alizée

Putting an elevated take on the traditional iftar, enjoy table-served iftar at Alizée. At the warm, contemporary restaurant, the menu features a lentil soup, array of starters like stuffed grape leaves and smoky moutabal, then a mixed grill platter and a selection of desserts then an assortment of dates.

Alizée, Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters, from 6pm, Dhs295. Tel: (0)4 556 6466. @alizeedubai

Amelia Dubai

Try an iftar with a Nikkei lens for Ramadan this year with highlights such as miso corn soup, wagyu bao and choices of mains including wagyu tenderloin, sea bass, truffle risotto and more.

Amelia Restaurant & Lounge, Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai 6pm to 8pm, Dhs295. Tel: (0)4 328 2805. @amelia.dubai

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

Enjoy the Ramadan tent at Crescendo at Anantara The Palm and dine under the stars from an iftar buffet, listen to the gentle live oud music and break your fast together.

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs250, Dhs125 children from five to 12. Tel: (0)4 567 8304. @anantaradubai

Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort

This Ramadan, gather with loved ones for a soulful Iftar experience at Qamar. Savour a generous sharing menu inspired by regional traditions, served against the calm backdrop of the Arabian Gulf. The offer includes boat transfers.

Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort, fromsunset, Dhs395, Dhs198 children from five to 12. Tel: (0)4 567 8777.

@anantaraworldislandsdubai

Andaliman

Take a trip to Indonesia with the sharing iftar menu at Andaliman. A lush, tropical urban escape at One Za’abeel, try dishes like the Indonesian empanada, nasi kebuli Andaliman and grilled lamb shank.

One&Only One Za’abeel, Trade Centre Area, sunset to 8pm, Dhs192, Dhs90 children aged four to 11. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. andalimandubai.com

Apricot

This Ramadan, Apricot invites guests to break their fast in the enchanting setting of Old Town, with breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa from its spacious garden terrace. Apricot’s four-course Iftar menu showcases a delightful selection of Anatolian favourites and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Al Manzil, Downtown Dubai, from sunset, Dhs145 three courses, Dhs175 four courses. Tel: (0)52 159 5000. @apricotdubai

DUBAI IFTARS

Armani/Amal

Nestled on the third floor within the iconic Armani Hotel Dubai and Burj Khalifa, and framed by panoramic views of Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Fountain, Armani/Amal offers an opulent setting that brings authentic Indian flavours with contemporary flair in true Armani fashion. Enjoy a four-course iftar of both Indian and Middle Eastern flavours.

Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs375. Tel: (0)4 888 3666. armanihotels.com

Armani/Caffe

An iftar that combines Ramadan traditions and Italian comforts, Armani/Caffe in Dubai Mall is open until late so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the sharing mains like chicken stew or Branzino Zaatar with tabouleh salad.

Fashion Avenue, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 1.30am, Dhs185. Tel: (0)4 362 7888. @armanicaffe.dubai

Armani Hotel Dubai

Overlooking Burj Lake at the Burj Khalifa, Armani/Pavilion is a stunning alfresco setting for iftar. Enjoy Italian flavours from Armani/Ristorante, Mediterranean dishes from Armani/Mediterraneo and Japanese delights from Armani/Hashi.

Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs410. Tel: (0)4 888 3010. armanihotels.com

Atlantis, The Palm

The quintessential iftar event returns to Atlantis, The Palm’s renowned Asateer Tent. In addition to the elegant yet modern look and feel of the ambience and décor, diners can enjoy a fusion buffet featuring various theme nights, including international, Arabesque, Khaleeji, Persian and Turkish cuisine. There are a variety of seating arrangements, including a Royal Majlis, four VIP Majlis areas, as well as booth seating and 120 dining tables. Atlantis, The Palm, sunset to 8pm, Dhs295 (Mon to Thur), Dhs325 (Fri to Sun). Tel: (0)4 426 0800. @atlantisthepalm

Bab El Bahr

Enjoy a coastal experience for iftar in this downtown spot that’s inspired by the fisherman of the Mediterranean . Bab El Bahr by Al Hallab, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown, from sunset, Dhs195 per person, Dhs135 children. Tel: (0)4 456 2881. @babalbahr.restaurant

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort

A captivating way to spend Ramadan would be enjoying iftar at Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams. Guests experience an authentic Arabian feast alongside a souk, as well as a show with dancers, musicians, falconers, camel and horse riders

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, from 6.30pm, Dhs449, Dhs275 aged four to 11. Tel: (0)4 809 6194. @babalshamshotel

DUBAI IFTARS

BeBabel

BeBabel, the Lebanese contemporary bistro at Dubai Hills Mall, brings a modern twist to authentic Lebanese flavours this Ramadan. Savour a menu crafted to celebrate tradition, featuring delights like mixed grill and oriental rice with meat – perfect for an unforgettable Iftar.

Dubai Hills Mall, from sunset, Dhs200. Tel: (0)4 451 8222. @bebabeldubai

Barfly by Buddha-Bar

With its rooftop terrace overlooking Dubai Marina and the stretching JBR skyline, Barfly by Buddha Bar is a scenic spot for iftar. The menu promises sharing plates that combine Middle Eastern influences with the pan-Asian menu, featuring options like prawn tempura, lamb tsukune skewers, josper seabass and slow cooked lamb leg. For dessert, choose either date pudding or um ali.

Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Palm West Beach, sunset to closing, Dhs250. Tel: (0)4 230 0073. @barflydubai

Berenjak

Enjoy an iftar of rich, flavourful tasty Irani dishes served to the table, with a set menu of starters, a choice of main, then desserts. It’s available at Berenjak’s venues in both Dubai and Sharjah.

Dar Wasl Mall, 6pm to 8pm Dhs210. Tel: (0)4 295 3644. berenjakuae.com

Blue Door

If an Anatolian and Levantine iftar is what you’re after, you can find it at Blue Door. Their Iftar menu invites you to enjoy a sharing menu under the stars of soup, platters, mezze and live stations featuring Anatolian classics. For dessert, try Turkish twists like pistachio baklava and sekerpare. Delano Dubai, Bluewaters, sunset to 9.30pm, Dhs280 adults, Dhs140 children. Tel: (0)4 556 6455. delanodubai.com

Casa Amor

Head to this boho-luxe beach house on the shorefront of Mandarin Oriental Jumeira for a sharing iftar menu of signature dishes. Guests will also receive intention cards inspired by the values of Ramadan, to add to the time of reflection.

Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, 6.00pm to 8pm, Dhs285. Tel: (0)4 777 2223. @casaamordubai

Bull & Bear by Marc Hardiman

Expect an Arabic-inspired menu this Ramadan. Enjoy dishes beginning with a selection of cold and hot mezze, flatbreads, main courses and classic dessert. Waldorf Astoria DIFC, sunset to 10pm, Dhs250. Tel: (0)4 515 9888. bullandbeardifc.com

CÉ LA VI

Designed exclusively for groups of 10 and above, CÉ LA VI puts its pan-Asian cuisine into a menu of sharing-style plates perfect for sharing with colleagues and friends. Begin with date and roasted mushroom soup, a choice of burrata or prawn tempura, then main options of baby chicken or black truffle risotto with sushi rice. The set menu concludes with Persian delight or mango basil tart. CÉ LA VI, Address Sky View, sunset to 8pm, Dhs290, groups of 10 and above. Tel: (0)4 582 6111. celavi.com

DUBAI IFTARS

Centara Mirage Beach Resort

The family-focused hotel Centara Mirage Beach Resort is celebrating Ramadan with an iftar at Sheesh Restaurant and it has all the favourites. If you book before Ramadan, you’ll get 20% off, too. Centara Mirage Beach Resort, Dubai Islands, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs190, Dhs95 for children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)56 500 2180. @centaramiragedubai

China Tang

Head to China Tang in Downtown Dubai for a 4-course iftar menu. Inspired by the glamour of 1930s Shanghai, the experience honours the customs of the Holy Month while celebrating the artistry of Cantonese cuisine. Enjoy a variety of dishes like soup, dim sum, prawns, chicken in black bean sauce and aubergine with tofu.

The Lana Promenade, Business Bay, from sunset until 8pm, Dhs268. Tel: (0)4 295 7464 @chinatang_dubai

Ciel Dubai Marina

As dusk settles over Dubai Marina, East 14 welcomes diners to Iftar Illuminated, a journey inspired by Middle Eastern, Levantine and Asian cuisines. Featuring live cooking stations and an enticing array of desserts, the evening is complemented by sweeping panoramic views, offering a welcoming yet sophisticated environment for iftar.

Dubai Marina, from sunset until 10pm, Dhs225. Tel: (0)4 8153014. @dineatciel

Conrad Dubai

Conrad Dubai celebrates Ramadan at The Avery on the sixth floor. This tranquil outdoor setting is designed for meaningful moments as you enjoy a carefully created iftar buffet. There will be live music every evening to add to the atmosphere, too.

Conrad Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs280, Dhs140 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)4 444 7444. @conraddubai

The Coop House

This Mediterranean and Italian dining spot blends tradition with the brand’s contemporary approach. It’s Ramadan classics with The Coop House touch. The Coop House, Mirdif City Centre, from sunset to 9.30pm, Dhs179,. Tel: (0)4 327 5759 @thecoophousedubai

Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina

Choose from indoor or outdoor settings and break your fast in the best way, with your loved ones. The buffet changes regularly throughout the month too so you can visit again for a different experience. Teachers also get 25% off on weekdays.

Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, from sunset, Dhs209 weekdays, Dhs219 weekends. Tel: (0)54 997 8599. @crowneplazadxbmarina

DUBAI IFTARS

COYA Dubai

Peruvian hotspot COYA Dubai hosts a delectable four-course meal, which includes dates and guacamole, soups, a selection of appetisers, one main course, and a pistachio baklava for dessert. Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Rd, sunset to 9pm, Dhs249. Tel: (0)4 316 9600. @coyadubai

The Creekside Hotel

Enjoy an international iftar buffet at Nomad, either indoors or on the terrace, with live cooking stations, specially themed desserts and classic Ramadan beverages, all paired with live oud performances.

The Creekside Hotel Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs175. Tel: (0)4 230 8555.

@creeksidehoteldubai

CQ French Brasserie

This cosy French brasserie in JLT serves up a two-course menu for Dhs189. The menu features a selection of starters, alongside mains like chicken breast stuffed with fragrant rice and grilled seabass. Guests can complete their meal with a dessert for an additional Dhs40, choosing from crème brûlée, pain perdu, and more.

Mövenpick Hotel, Cluster A, JLT, from sunset, Dhs189. Tel (0)4 514 9339.

@cqbrasserie

Dusit Thani Dubai

For a quiet and calm Ramadan evening, VIEW at Dusit Thani Dubai is a great choice, plus you’ll have uninterrupted Burj Khalifa views. The whole Ramadan food experience will be there: mezze, soup, fresh juices, mixed grill platters, kebabs and of course, Arabic dessert. Dusit Thani Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs139. Tel: (0)4 317 4515. @dushitthanidubai

Em Sherif Café

A popular spot for its homely Levantine cuisine, this Ramadan, experience a Ramadan set menu that celebrates quintessential Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Expect a mezze of fattoush, kibbeh, hummus and more to start, then cooked-to-order kebabs for main, followed by a signature dessert selection.

The Heritage Hotel, Autograph Collection, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, 7pm to 9pm, Dhs265. Tel: (0)4 330 4444. @emsherifcafedubai

Emirates Golf Club

Amidst meticulously curated lawn and pavilion settings, the Royal Iftar at Emirates Golf Club has long been a favourite in the city. Priced at Dhs295 per person, this royal experience invites you to indulge in a delightful array of Middle Easterninspired dishes, perfectly complemented by the backdrop of Dubai’s skyline and the lush greenery of the golf course.

Emirates Golf Club, sunset to 9pm, Dhs295, Dhs95 children five to 12 years. dubaigolf. com/ramadan

DUBAI IFTARS

Eugène Eugène

Head to the French, green oasis that is Eugène Eugène and enjoy a four-course iftar full of food made from fresh ingredients. Dine under the stars on the terrace or in the cosy greenhouse. Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, sunset to 8pm, Dhs165. Tel: (0)4 428 7961. @eugeneeugenedubai

Eva Beach Club

Eva’s first ever iftar is introducing a new way to gather at sunset. Enjoy a Mediterraneaninspired set menu with sharing starters, a choice of main course and a mini pistachio katmer for dessert to nod to tradition. Palm Jumeirah, 6pm to 8pm, Dhs295. Tel: (0)4 510 4800. @evabeachclub

Ewaan

Break your fast at Palace Downtown’s elegant restaurant Ewaan, with iftar served from sunset to 9pm, following the Azan. Enjoy an immersive dining experience with an oud player. The extensive spread includes Arabic, Indian and international dishes, concluding with tempting Ramadan desserts and Arabic juices.

Palace Downtown, sunset to 9pm, Dhs320, Dhs160 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 428 7961. @palacedowntown

Fairmont Sheikh Zayed Road

Fumée Steakhouse is the location for iftar in Fairmont Sheikh Zayed Road this year and it’s bringing a fire-led experience to nostalgic favourites.

Fairmont Sheikh Zayed Road, 5.30pm to 8pm, Dhs240. Tel: (0)4 495 9888.

@fairmontdubai

Fi’lia

An Italian take on an iftar, the meal opens with antipasti to share, featuring cold mezze, followed by beef meatballs, pizza, grilled lamb, chicken and beef, finished off by Fi’lia’s signature dessert trolley so you can end on something sweet.

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, from sunset, Dhs265. Tel: (0)56 508 0655. @filiadubai

Fairmont The Palm

The beloved Ramadan pop-up in Fairmont’s Fairuz garden returns and it’s a stunning alfresco setting for iftar. A variety of seating options are available as you enjoy an open buffet and live music. Stations feature dishes of seafood, poultry and vegetarian staples.

Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, sunset to 9pm, Dhs315, Dhs125 children aged six. Tel: (0)4 457 3457. fairmont.com/palmdubai

FIVE Jumeirah Village

Head for a delightful iftar journey at Trattoria by Cinque, which promises to blend tradition with indulgence. Taking place on the decked-out terrace, relish juicy lamb leg ouzi, mouthwatering chicken shawarma and an array of traditional mezze and salads.

FIVE Jumeirah Village, sunset to 11pm, Dhs249, Dhs99 children. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @fivejumeirahvillage

DUBAI IFTARS

FIVE LUXE

Experience a breathtaking beachfront Iftar at Cielo, FIVE LUXE, where luxury, tradition and stunning Arabian Gulf views come together for an unforgettable Ramadan meal. Savour a generous buffet featuring Arabic classics, live cooking stations and an array of delectable dishes, all complemented by soft drinks.

FIVE LUXE, JBR, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs245, Dhs125 for children. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @fiveluxe

FIVE Palm Jumeirah

Numâ at FIVE Palm Jumeirah invites you to a luxurious iftar experience, where classic Arabic flavours meet bold international twists in a stunning setting. Under a beautifully adorned pergola, savour a lavish buffet of mezze, live cooking stations and indulgent desserts. Guests can also enjoy shisha in a relaxed lounge setting, with a modern Arabic soundtrack enhancing the ambience.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs229, Dhs149 children aged seven to 12 , Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @fivepalmjumeirah

Four Seasons Resort Dubai

The Majlis is a beautiful Ramadan pop-up that will serve iftar daily in the resort’s event garden. Laced with a contemporary touch, dine under the warm lights of this open-air majlis on a buffet featuring dishes like lentil soup to start, followed by options like lamb ouzi and the barbecue mixed grill.

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, sunset to 9pm, Dhs410, Dhs225 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 270 7777. @fsdubai

Girl and the Goose - Restaurante Centroamericano

This three-course iftar menu gives you the choice for each course from starter to dessert, all within the restaurant’s warmly layered space.

Anantara Downtown Hotel, from sunset, Dhs189. Tel: (0)4 575 3760. @girl.and.the.goose

Grand Millennium Business Bay

Sofia’s Kitchen is bringing a generous iftar buffet to Grand Millennium Business Bay that’s inspired by Sofia’s Italian roots and her love for global flavours. You’ll find comforting, heartwarming dishes that blend traditional recipes with international influences.

Grand Millennium Business Bay, sunset to 9pm, Dhs165. Tel: (0)4 545 2100. millenniumhotels.com

Grand Hyatt Dubai

This unique iftar is set within the lush indoor gardens and surrounded by sounds of running water at Grand Hyatt Dubai. Expect live cooking stations and an extensive buffet, as well as typical Ramadan drinks.

Grand Hyatt Dubai, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs249, Dhs125 children under 9. Tel: (0)4 317 1234. @grandhyattdubai

Grand Millennium Hotel

The Ramadan Grand iftar at Toshi presents an iftar worth visiting. The rotating buffet menu promises live carving stations, interactive stations, plenty of sushi and unlimited Ramadan beverages. There’s a live oud player to add to the atmosphere, too, and there’s even a kids playroom.

Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai, Barsha Heights, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Dhs149, Dhs75 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 423 4100. millenniumhotels.com

DUBAI IFTARS

The Heritage Hotel, Autograph Collection

As the sun sets, gather at Courtyard at The Heritage Hotel, Autograph Collection for a soulful al fresco iftar. The courtyard’s elegant arches and twinkling lights create a magical, inviting ambiance, while a traditional Middle Eastern buffet awaits. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs200. Tel: (0)50 447 9843. @theheritagehotel

Hai Ramadan

Expo City’s Ramadan experience is complete with markets and cultural activities. For iftar, you have two choices: Iftar Al Souk take at your own pace as you explore traditional food carts for Dhs150 per ticket, redeemable on food or drinks; Iftar Al Majlis is seated and you can enjoy the buffet in Al Wasl dome for Dhs285 for adults and Dhs185 for children aged four to 11. Expo City Dubai, open 5pm to 1am, iftar served from sunset, from Dhs150 @expocitydubai

HANU

For a minimum of two guests, this iftar at HANU invites guests to enjoy a blend of Korean and Middle Eastern flavours in a meal designed for sharing. Enjoy kimchi aranchini, gyozas, Korean-style arayes and more to start. For the mains, Meat Me at the Grill is the star of the show, featuring the chef’s selection of two cuts served with green leaf baskets and scallion salad. St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, from sunset, Dhs295. (0)4 278 4844 @hanu_dubai

DUBAI IFTARS

Hartisan

A relaxed iftar spot that’s perfect for families, enjoy your meal in this beachfront spot as they offer a spread of traditional Ramadan dishes and international options. Hilton Dubai The Walk, from sunset until 10pm, Dhs199, Dhs80 children aged six to 12. @hiltondubai

Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown

Open Sesame promises a rotation of six iftar menus for guests to look forward to this Ramadan. A mix of classic iftar dishes and comfort food, options like mezze, Arabic mixed grill, live stations of kebabs and shish taouk.

Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown, Business Bay, from sunset, Dhs199 adults, Dhs99 children aged 6 to 12. Tel: (0)4 210 2210. hotelindigodubai.com

Hyatt Regency Dubai

Try Dubai’s only revolving restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows reveal everchanging panoramic views of the city skyline. As the restaurant gently rotates, guests can enjoy a lavish iftar spread featuring traditional Arabic dishes, live cooking stations, and classic Ramadan beverages, all within an elegant setting that elevates the dining experience from sunset onwards. Hyatt Regency Dubai, from sunset, Dhs199 adults, Dhs99 children aged 6 to 12. Tel: (0)4 209 6912. @hyattregencydubai

DUBAI IFTARS

Ibn Al Bahr

Break your fast with flavours of the sea at Ibn Al Bahr, and, of course, authentic Ramadan traditions. You’ll enjoy starters, hot and cold mezze, soups, and a main course such as a choice of fish with a choice of rice.

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, from sunset to 8pm, Dhs189, Dhs99 for children under 10. Tel: 800 4262 52247. @ibnalbahr

INA

The chef-led modern grill restaurant at J1 beach is celebrating iftar under the stars. It’s a sharing-style menu, starting with flatbread and a selection of starters including lentil soup and salads. Then for mains enjoy some wood-fired kebabs with different choice of meats, lamb tagine, duck leg biryani and a range of seasonal sides.

J1 Beach, from 5.30pm, Dhs345, Tel: (0) 4 570 4766. @ina.dubai

JA Beach Hotel

At Ibn Majed Restaurant, you’ll find welcoming iftar buffet with rotating Ramadan favourites, live cooking and BBQ stations, and Arabic coffee throughout the evening. This relaxed iftar is perfect for families, with food options to suit everyone. JA Beach Hotel, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Dhs249 adults, Dhs125 children four to 11. Tel: (0)54 9979881. jaresortshotels.com

JA Ocean View Hotel

Aqua Restaurant is the setting for a stunning iftar in JA Ocean View, choose from indoors or the outdoor terrace, enjoy live cooking stations and a relaxed setting. There’s a live oud player to add to the ambience too.

JA Ocean View Hotel, JBR, 6pm to 10pm, Dhs199 adults, Dhs95 children. Tel: (0)54 9979881. jaresortshotels.com

Jamavar

Jamavar presents iftar this Holy Month, set in the venue’s grand, prettily adorned dining room. Dry fruits and dates break the fast, then there’s steamed and fried bites served to the table, followed by a kebab platter, featuring a choice of vegetarian or non-vegetarian grills and tandoors. Next, a choice of biriyani, then a choice of traditional dessert concludes the evening. Address Residences, Dubai Opera District, 6pm to 8pm, Dhs175. Tel: (0)4 553 7852. @jamavardubai

JW Marriott Hotel Marina

Celebrate the spirit of Ramadan in Dubai Marina with a buffet of Middle Eastern and international cuisine at the elegant Marina Grand Ballroom. Enjoy the live music while you eat too.

JW Marriott Hotel Marina, sunset to 9pm, Dhs240. Tel: (0)4 436 7777. @jwmarriotthotelmarina

DUBAI IFTARS

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel goes big this Ramadan with a special rooftop iftar under the stars on the terrace. Complete with live oud music, it features an extensive buffet spread with an impressive mix of Middle Eastern, Indian, Asian, and international dishes.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Business Bay, sunset to 10pm, Dhs275. Tel: (0)4 414 0000. @jwmarriottmarquisdubai

Jumeirah Al Naseem

Family-friendly venue The Palmery serves up a buffet with live stations showcasing international and classic flavours, all paired with classic music from the live qanun player.

Jumeirah Al Naseem, sunset to 10pm, Dhs320, Dhs160 for children four to 12.

Tel: (800) 323 232. jumeirah.com

Jumeirah Al Qasr

A stunning iftar within the palatial walls of Jumeirah Al Qasr, this experience features a generous buffet of international and regional dishes, live grill station, and a serene setting designed for relaxed Ramadan evenings.

Jumeirah Al Qasr, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs320, Dhs160 for children four to 11.

Tel: (800) 323 232. jumeirah.com

RAMADAN NIGHTS BY ARMANI

Evenings of quiet reflection. A setting for togetherness.

IFTAR

AED 410 per person

Available from sunset to 9 pm

SOHOOR

AED 295 per person

Available from 10 pm to 2 am

Contact us to reserve +971 4888 3666

DUBAI IFTARS

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel is going big this Ramadan with a special rooftop iftar on the terrace under the stars. Complete with live oud music, it features an extensive buffet spread with an impressive mix of Middle Eastern, Indian, Asian, and international dishes.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, sunset to 10pm, Dhs275. Tel: (0)4 414 0000. @jwmarriottmarquisdubai

Jumeirah Al Naseem

Family-friendly venue The Palmery serves up a buffet with live stations showcasing international and classic flavours, all paired with classic music from the live qanun player.

Jumeirah Al Naseem, sunset to 10pm, Dhs320, Dhs160 for children four to 12. Tel: (800) 323 232. jumeirah.com

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Returning this year is the stunning Ramadan Garden overlooking the Arabian Gulf and iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. Discover an array of live stations serving up mouth-watering dishes inspired by the traditions of the Middle East, further elevated with traditional tunes from the live qanun and oud player. There’s a dedicated kids’ area too.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, 6pm to 8.30pm, Dhs350, Dhs200 children aged four to 11. Tel: (800) 323 232. jumeirah.com

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

An iftar beneath the iconic sail, Al Diwan returns this year with an elevated experience, diners can savour a lavish iftar buffet with Arabic classics and international delights, live stations and fabulous evening entertainment

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs450, Dhs225 for children four to 11. Tel: (800) 323 232. jumeirah.com

Jumeirah Mina A’Salam

At beloved brunch spot Hanaaya, diners can enjoy a traditional iftar buffet with classic Ramadan dishes and Arabic-themed beverages, all by the water’s edge.

Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, sunset to 10pm, Dhs280, Dhs150 for children five to 11. Tel: (800) 323 232. jumeirah.com

DUBAI IFTARS

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

At Majlis Al Nafoorah, reflect under the moonlit sky and with the views of Palm Jumeirah, savour a traditional iftar buffet featuring traditional Lebanese dishes and Arabic-themed beverages, plus tunes from the live Arabic duo. Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, from 8.30pm, Dhs275, Dhs135 for children five to 11. Tel: (800) 323 232. jumeirah.com

Jun’s

Beloved chef Kelvin Cheung represents another iftar celebration at Jun’s. It begins with a signature mocktail and a lentil miso soup, then a mezze platter to share. For the main courses, Chef Kelvin has prepared a family-style menu with wagyu short rib, lamb shoulder and more. Kunafa with pistachio matcha mousse is one of the decadent choices for dessert. The Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 8pm, Dhs260. Tel: (0)4 457 6035. @junsdubai

Juña

Juña Rooftop in 25Hours Hotel One Central is a special choice for iftar. Guests can begin with a choice of hearty soups, followed by shareable cold and hot mezze that bring families together. The main course offers a variety of signature dishes, from roasted lamb shank and Moroccan meatballs to Gemistas, grilled tiger prawns, or seared seabass, complemented by flavourful sides. 25Hours Hotel One Central Dubai, sunset to 8pm, Dhs220. Tel: (0)56 509 2907. @25hourshoteldubai

Kempinski Central Avenue

The iftar at Nai restaurant features dishes crafted with the finest ingredients to make a menu of Middle Eastern and international options. Enjoy the soulful melodies of a live oud player too. Kempinski Central Avenue, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs235. Tel: (0)50 5523 4086. @kempinskicentralavenue

Kempinski Palm Jumeirah

Enjoy an iftar set in the West Lawn outdoor tent with ambient lantern-lit gardens and panoramic sea views. Enjoy hot and cold mezze, fresh sushi, live cooking stations, signature Ramadan drinks and even an Arabic tea buffet.

Kempinski Palm Jumeirah, sunset to 9pm, Dhs265 weekdays, Dhs285 weekends. Tel: (0)4 444 2000. @kempinskipalm

Kempinski The Boulevard

La Brasserie Sur Le Boulevard is hosting the iftar for Kempinski The Boulevard this year and you can expect French and international flavours with a Middle Eastern twist to honour tradition. Enjoy the outdoor terrace with the view of the Burj Khalifa or choose the elegant indoors.

Kempinski The Boulevard, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs265. Tel: (0)52 656 5462. @kempinskitheboulevard

DUBAI IFTARS

Kinara By Vikas Khanna

Indulge in a sharing-style menu of Indian dishes, perfect for ending the day with family and friends. In a sophisticated setting, the set menu, crafted by renowned chef Vikas Khanna, traverses the foodie regions of the Middle East and India, served alongside Ramadan juices and a date and nut platter.

Kinara by Vikas Khanna, JA Lake View, Jebel Ali, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs300. Tel: (0)4 814 5605. jaresortshotels.com

KIRA

KIRA welcomes Ramadan with an iftar that honours time, tradition, and the quiet joy of coming together. Enjoy the meal with incredible views of the Arabian Gulf and the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. Enjoy salads and burrata to start, choose beef, lobster, lamb shank or baby chicken for your main and end on a sweet sharing dessert platter.

KIRA, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, from sunset, Dhs295. Tel: (0)4 328 1665. @kirarestaurant

Kitchen6

Kitchen6 at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai has an extensive buffet-style Ramadan offering which features six live cooking stations and cuisines from around the world.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, 5.30pm to 11pm, Dhs225. Tel: (0)4 414 3000. @jwmarriottmarquisdubai

Kyma Beach

This chic beachfront Greek hotspot offers a refined iftar experience with a specially curated set menu, perfect for sharing. Expect elevated Mediterranean flavours in a laid-back, sea-facing setting ideal for group gatherings.

Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, from sunset, Dhs300. Tel: (0)4 666 5999 @kymabeachdubai

Lana Lusa

This Ramadan, Lana Lusa has a curated menu of authentic Mediterranean and Portuguese dishes, perfect for sharing with loved ones in an enchanting, familyfriendly atmosphere. Expect Middle Eastern favourites as well as Portuguese-inspired dishes on the set menu, so you get the full Ramadan experience with a twist. The iftar menu includes Ramadan juices too.

Four Seasons Private Residences, Dubai Canal, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs190. Tel: (0)4 380 1515. @lanalusadxb

Latest Recipe

At Latest Recipe, guests can enjoy an expansive iftar buffet designed for sharing and discovery. A key highlight is the terrace experience, where live cooking takes centre stage. Stations include a live BBQ, a streetfood inspired kumpir station, and a live kunefe station serving the classic dessert fresh throughout the evening.

Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, from sunset, Dhs205, Dhs85 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. marriott.com

DUBAI IFTARS

Layali Al Qamar

Daily throughout Ramadan, head to Jumeirah Golf Estates for a traditional Middle Eastern buffet, as well as crowd-pleasing international dishes. Begin with comforting soup, followed by fresh salads and hot and cold mezze, then tuck-in to sizzling meats from the live cooking stations, along with features like lamb ouzi and shish taouk. Don’t forget to pass by the dessert station, where Arabic sweets, umm ali and pistachio cheesecake end things on a sweet note. Clubhouse, Jumeirah Golf Estates, sunset to 9pm, Dhs180 adults, Dhs100 children aged five to 12. Tel: (0)4 586 7795. dubaigolf.com

Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai

Break your fast with a generous iftar menu that’s available throughout Ramadan with both contemporary dishes and traditional favourites. Enjoy them all in the warm and welcoming setting of Yalumba. Airport Road, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs185. Tel: (0)4 217 000. marriott.com

Madinat Jumeirah Al

Majlis

Madinat Jumeirah transforms into a majestic majlis this Ramadan. Here you’ll find an iftar buffet featuring a classic selection of cold and hot mezze, fresh bread, mains and international dishes. It will also have light instrumental Arabic music. Madinat Jumeirah, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs350, Dhs175 children five to 11 years. Tel: (0)4 366 5500. jumeirah.com

Iftar at Origins

Venue: Origins, Vida Creek Beach

Time: Throughout Ramadan, sunset to 9.00pm

Prices starting from AED 235 per person

DUBAI IFTARS

The Majlis at DWTC

A grand Ramadan majlis popular with corporate bookings, The Majlis at DWTC provides a traditional setting with lots of seating options for one of the city’s most extensive iftar buffets. While much of the spread pays homage to Middle Eastern classics, you’ll also find an Asian corner and an Indian corner. Soft oriental melodies from live oud players add to the authentic ambience.

Dubai World Trade Centre, 5.30pm to 8.30pm, Dhs250, Dhs120 children aged six to 12. majlis.ae

Mama Shelter

Mama Shelter brings its signature European playfulness to Business Bay with Mama’s Magical Iftar. Its brings a family-style menu of heartwarming dishes, paired with soft beverages and Ramadan juices. Highlights include signature ouzi, baked whole lamb and kabsa rice, and plenty of desserts including a kanafa and cupcake station. Mama Shelter, Business Bay, sunset to 9pm, Dhs160. Tel: (0)56 509 1956. mamashelter. com

Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai

The new Mandarin Oriental in Downtown Dubai is presenting an iftar on the 11th-floor rooftop terrace at Noia by the Pool. It’s a three-course, Greek-inspired iftar designed for generous sharing and a relaxed pace. Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, from sunset, Dhs385, Dhs97.50 children aged four to 12. Tel: (0)4 777 8888. mandarinoriental. com

Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai

The Majlis by Mandarin Oriental presents a refreshed ambience with warm interiors and a terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf. As dusk falls, guests can enjoy an exceptional iftar featuring Middle Eastern favourites and signature dishes from Netsu and Tasca, accompanied by live oud and qanun melodies. Whether indoors or by the sea, it’s a perfect setting to embrace the spirit of Ramadan with loved ones.

Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs395, Dhs198 children aged four to 11. Tel: (0)4 777 2223. mandarinoriental.com

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah

There’s a brand new way to break your fast overlooking Palm West Beach. Introducing Layalina Majlis, where live grills sizzle, and oud melodies weave through the air.

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs295 weekdays, Dhs325 weekends, Dhs145 children six to 18 weekdays, Dhs155 weekends, Dhs95 children aged two to six. Tel: (0)4 666 1430. @marriottresortpalmjumeirah

Meliá Desert Palm

Try iftar at Epicure, the LevantineMediterranean inspired dining destination. Enjoy a buffet with hot and cold mezze, live cooking stations offer Arabic and Irani grills, chicken shawarma and slow roasted lamb. Finish the evening with something sweet like knafeh, umm ali, baklava, cakes, mousse or fresh fruit.

Meliá Desert Palm Dubai Resort, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs220, Dhs95 children from six to 12. Tel: (0)50 170 6138. @meliadesertpalm

DUBAI IFTARS

Media One Hotel

The relaxed poolside lounge at Media One, Coco Lounge, will serve an alfresco buffet for iftar this year. Expect a live carving station, assorted Arabic salads and cheeses, and a dedicated dessert station.

Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, 6.30 to 8.30pm, Dhs175. Tel: (0)52 144 7437. @cocoloungedxb

Millennium Plaza Downtown Hotel Dubai

Enjoy iftar in the grand Jumeirah Ballroom at this Sheikh Zayed Road stalwart, with a buffet of international dishes that promises diverse cuisines and live cooking stations. There’s an offer of 50% off for bookings confirmed before Ramadan.

Millennium Plaza Downtown Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, sunset onwards, Dhs225 weekdays, Dhs275 weekends, Dhs113 children weekdays, Dhs138 children weekends. Tel: (0)54 305 7622. millenniumhotels.com

Mimi Kakushi

The fabulous Asian spot (and What’s On Award winner) has an iftar set menu that’s bound to bring you incredible flavours and quality time together. Break your fast in a three-time Michelin Guide restaurant and you’ll never forget it.

Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah, Dubai, 6pm to 1am, Dhs295. Tel: (0)4 379 4811

@mimikakushi

Iftar at The Courtyard Dine by the Marina!

Venue: The Courtyard, Vida Creek Harbour

Time: Throughout Ramadan, sunset to 8.30pm

Prices starting from AED 120 per person

DUBAI IFTARS

MiMi Mei Fair

Chic and feminine interiors, upscale Chinese cuisine, and a lovely alfresco terrace on the boulevard. That’s what you can expect from an iftar at MiMi Mei Fair. The menu promises options like dim sum platters of vegetarian and seafood options, bao buns, wontons, and a choice of main, then a banana toffee dessert. Address Residences, Opera District, Downtown Dubai, from sunset, Dhs168. Tel: (0)4 570 0825. @mimimeifair.ae

Mina’s Kitchen

Unsurprisingly, Mina’s Kitchen, the home of the award-winning Bubblalicious brunch, is hosting a fabulous iftar this Ramadan. From traditional favourites to contemporary delights, the extensive spread at Mina’s Kitchen take guests on a gastronomic journey. Alongside the dining experience, live oud music will set the tone with a relaxing mood and shisha to finish. Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, from sunset, Dhs215, Dhs95 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @minakitchen_dxb

Mowsem

The all-day-dining venue located in Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, invites guests to an exquisite buffet-style iftar featuring delicious traditional and Middle Eastern cuisine. Packed with regional flavours, live cooking stations and generous spreads, it’s designed for families, friends, and larger gatherings.

Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs225 weekdays, Dhs245 weekends. Tel: (0)4 230 0073. @hiltondubaipalm

Mövenpick Hotel Apartments Downtown Dubai

Set across the venue’s open-air terrace and garden, the iftar offers a laid-back yet festive atmosphere. The experience features authentic Arabian and regional favourites, complemented by interactive live cooking stations.

Mövenpick Hotel Apartments Downtown Dubai, from sunset, Dhs199, Dhs95 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 518 7777. @movenpickdowntowndubai

Nara

Nara Desert Camp takes on a special Ramadan theme and the camp transforms into an Arabian spice market, with live food stations serving classics, as well as international dishes. The best bits of the camp remain, including camel rides, a falcon show, and live music. After iftar, relax in the lounge with Arabic coffee, and order shisha a la carte. Shuttles to and from Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve are also included. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, 5.30pm to 9pm, Dhs490, Dhs210 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)50 336 7909. nara.ae

Netsu

Dubai’s only Kabuki-inspired iftar returns to Netsu with an exclusive Ramadan menu featuring a tantalising array of Netsu’s renowned grills and maki rolls, complemented by tempting additions like crispy rice crackers, Wagyu beef tri-tip MB4-5, and a delectable cheesecake infused with cherry blossom to conclude.

Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, 6pm onwards, Dhs285. Tel: (0)4 777 2232. @netsudubai

DUBAI IFTARS

Ninive

This refined Middle Eastern favourite serves a generous Ramadan sharing menu designed for iftar, bringing together classic Middle Eastern flavours with elevated touches, from lentil soup and cold mezze to hearty mains and traditional desserts. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, DIFC, from sunset, Dhs300. Tel: (0)4 3266 105 @ninivedubau

Oceana

A relaxed, beachfront iftar where guests come together over a wide selection of Ramadan dishes and international favourites. Live oud music accompanies the evening, with a setting designed for longer, relaxed gatherings.

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, sunset to 10pm, Dhs249, Dhs125 children six to 12. Tel: (0)5 700 4785. @hiltondubai

Novikov Cafe

Head to Dubai Mall for this iftar feast for two at Novikov Café. Start with traditional pieces such as hummus, tabbouleh and baba ghanoush, then choose your main course. Options include butterfly sea bream with pilaf rice, beef stew with chickpeas, or lamb shank with couscous. Finish it off with something sweet.

Dubai Mall, from sunset, Dhs490 for two. Tel: (0)4 320 0209 @novikovcafedubai

Olivino

Enjoy a memorable Iftar at Olivino, with stunning sea views of the Palm and soothing Arabic melodies, as you gather with family and friends. Indulge in an exceptional Iftar buffet featuring international dishes, Arabic delicacies and Ramadan favourites.

W Dubai – The Palm, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs239, Dhs119 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 245 5800. @wdubaipalm

One&Only One Za’abeel

Putting a haute spin on the traditional Ramadan tent is One&Only One Za’abeel, partnering with Moroccan-French designer Selma Benomar for a haute couture-inspired Ramadan experience. Promising an immersion of craftmanship, culture and connection, this is one Ramadan fans of the finer things won’t want to miss.

One&Only One Za’abeel, Trade Center, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs295, Dhs150 children four to 11. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. oneandonlyresorts.com

One&Only Royal Mirage

The Oriental Majlis at One&Only Royal Mirage invites guests to enjoy a generous Levantine and Arabic buffet featuring ouzi, shawarma, mezze favourites, and traditional sweets, presented in a warm and welcoming majlis-style atmosphere.

One&Only One Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina, from sunset, Dhs395, Dhs190 children four to 11. Tel: (0) 4 315 2414. oneandonlyresorts.com

One&Only The Palm

ZEST at One&Only The Palm has an iftar you won’t want to miss. Gather with your family and friends and enjoy a traditional iftar menu in a beautiful setting accompanied by the gentle sounds of live oud music.

One&Only One The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, from sunset, Dhs250, Dhs125 children four to 11. Tel: (0) 4 440 1010. oneandonlyresorts. com

DUBAI IFTARS

Orme Osteria

Orme Osteria in Palace Dubai Creek Harbour reveals a more indulgent expression of iftar. Expect an elegant buffet complemented by traditional Arabic beverages. It’s polished but welcoming and of course, children are encouraged.

Palace Dubai Creek Harbour, sunset to 9pm, Dhs295, Dhs148 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 559 8870. @palacedubaicreek

Palazzo Versace Dubai

Promising a wide selection of traditional Middle Eastern and international dishes, Giardino’s iftar buffet features a selection of live cooking stations offering kebabs, rotisserie, grilled meats, and lamb ouzi, as well as salad and fresh juices stations. The centrepiece “island” in the middle of the restaurant provides an array of additional mezze dishes and tempting desserts, setting the scene for the ultimate iftar feast.

Palazzo Versace Dubai, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs275. Tel: (0)4 556 8805.

@palazzoversacedubai

Palm Kitchen

Try an abundant iftar buffet featuring live cooking stations and traditional Ramadan favourites, complemented nicely by live oud and qanun performances, creating a warm, relaxed, and celebratory atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy together.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs239, Dhs120 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 506 0000.

@tajpalmdubai

Paramount Hotel Midtown

Head to CineScope Restaurant for an iftar shaped by warmth and reflection. There will be Ramadan favourites, plus live cooking stations where you can choose your favourites to break your fast.

Paramount Hotel Midtown, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs195, Dhs97 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 246 6777. paramounthotelsdubai.com

Park Hyatt Dubai

The Palm Garden is the perfect place for iftar at Park Hyatt Dubai and you’ll be transported to another world as you walk down the outdoor stairs. Enjoy the buffet that includes a dedicated salad bar, cold station, cheese table, and soup station, along with main courses from around the world.

Park Hyatt, Dubai Creek, sunset to 9pm, Dhs335. Tel: (0)4 246 6777. paramounthotelsdubai.com

Pincode

This restaurant by celebrity chef Kunal Kapur, has an iftar designed specifically by him. Pincode is full of timeless Indian flavours: aromatic biryanis, slow-cooked delicacies, flavourful grills, and indulgent desserts. Find it in Dubai Hills Mall. Dubai Hills, sunset to 8pm, Dhs179. Tel: (0)4 566 1424. @pincode.uae

DUBAI IFTARS

Queen Elizabeth 2

Hop aboard the QE2 and enjoy iftar under the stars within the dedicated majlis setting, where the culinary team has prepared a buffet featuring a range of regional delights, including lamb ouzi with oriental rice.

Port Rashid, 6.30pm to 8pm, Dhs285, Dhs90 children six to 11 years. Tel: (0)4 526 8040. @qe2dubai

Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Waterfront

At the Larder, we’re a promised a big Levantine buffet and live cooking stations on their terrace. It’s served up to the sounds of a live oud player.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront, sunset to 9pm, Dhs219. Tel: (0)54 583 4052. @radissonbludubaiwaterfront

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Canal View

You can expect similar vibes at this restaurant, too with a special iftar on the terrace, with Arabic mezze, mixed grills and traditional desserts.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Canal View, Business Bay, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs195. Tel: (0)4 875 3300. @radissonbluhoteldubai canalview

Raffles The Palm

Head to the luxurious Le Jardin in Raffles The Palm for an authentic iftar feast, with indoor seating in the opulent restaurant, and tables dotting the terrace by the picturesque gardens. Expect live entertainment from a qanun player, conjuring an authentic Arabian atmosphere. Raffles The Palm, sunset to 10pm, Dhs325, Dhs147.50 children six to 11 years. Tel: (0)4 248 8888. @rafflesthepalmdubai

Rang Mahal

Showcasing the vibrant and renowned flavours of India, the award-winning Rang Mahal is bringing a selection of hot and cold mezze, traditional Indian delicacies, vegetarian options and regional sweets, ideal for those who wish to spend time together in an elevated ambience this Ramadan.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, sunset to 11pm, Dhs195. Tel: (0)4 414 3000.

@jwmarriottmarquisdubai

The Ritz-Carlton DIFC

This special iftar in The Samaya Ballroom will include an extravagant buffet with live cooking stations, a seafood bar, traditional mezze, and you’ll even find a live oud player. The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, from sunset, Dhs299 for one, Dhs150 children ages six to 12. Tel: (0)4 372 2222. ritzcarlton.com

DUBAI IFTARS

Rixos The Palm

On the edge of East Crescent, head to A La Turca at Rixos The Palm for an iftar buffet. Crafted by expert chefs, this buffet-style feast features time-honoured Ramadan staples, Turkishinspired creations, and local dishes, all washed down by fresh juices, teas, and Arabian coffee. Rixos The Palm, East Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs275 on weekdays, Dhs299 on weekends. Tel: (0)4 457 5555. @rixosthepalm

ROKA

Enjoy a Japanese iftar at this buzzy restaurant. A sophisticated dining room and leafy alfresco terrace provide the backdrop for a set menu of starters like chicken karaage, rolls and salad. For mains, choose one signature dish like salmon, tiger prawn, baby chicken, a rice hot pot or beef short rib, then end with a choice of dessert from ROKA’s signature selection.

ME Dubai, The Opus, Business Bay, 6pm to 9pm, Dhs180. Tel: (0)4 439 7171. @ rokadubaiofficial

Rove Hotels

Iftar at The Daily is a wallet friendly Dhs129. Expect Ramadan juices, brewed coffee, and a buffet of salads, mezze, and hot dishes of Arabic flavours, plus a Turkish icecream station. In the spirit of giving back, those who purchase an iftar will receive a voucher for a second iftar to ‘Pass It On’ to a family member, friend, stranger, or someone in need.

Various locations including Dubai Marina and City Walk, from sunset, Dhs129. Tel: (800) 7683. rovehotels.com

Shanghai Me Dubai

Try an iftar set menu at Shanghai Me and select one salad one starter, one main, with a side dish, and a dessert. Mains include tiger prawns in chilli sauce, salmon steak with teriyaki sauce, mixed vegetables with crispy garlic, Mongolian lamb chops, sweet and sour chicken with mixed peppers, or Szechuan beef with mixed vegetables. The choice is yours. DIFC, 5.30pm to 7pm, Dhs220. Tel (0)4 564 0505. @shanghaimedxb

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

This traditional iftar spread at Hatta restaurant follows the favoured format – go with hot and cold mezze to begin, laced with Mediterranean influences, then dive into a traditional ouzi, biriyani or shawarma, or the Oriental mixed grill. For dessert, enjoy Umm ali, baklava, and an array of international pastries and puddings. Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, sunset to 8pm, Dhs199, Dhs99 children. Tel (0)4 207 1717. @sheratondubaicreek

Signor Sassi

Enjoy an Italian set menu at Signor Sassi. Designed to share and available for a minimum of two guests, enjoy sharing-style starters of burrata, aubergine parmigiana and Margherita pizzettas, followed by a choice of beef meatballs in tomato sauce or wild seabass with cherry tomatoes and black olives., and then a selection of desserts, including the quintessential tiramisu. St Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, from sunset, Dhs275. Tel: (0)4 278 4848. signorsassidubai.com

DUBAI IFTARS

Social Company

At this casual, leafy eatery in The Greens, iftar is a traditional Arabic family-style 3 course sharing menu, including Laban and special Ramadan drinks.

Zabeel House The Greens, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs125, Dhs60 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 519 1111. jumeirah.com

Sofitel Dubai The Palm

Enjoy Arabic flavours with the Ramadan buffet at Maui at Sofitel Dubai The Palm. All the beloved favourites feature – think hot and cold mezze, a lamb ouzi station, Arabic mixed grill, and sweet treats of baklava and umm ali.

Sofitel Dubai The Palm, East Crescent, sunset to 9pm, Dhs230, Dhs120 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 455 5656. @sofiteldubaipalm

St Regis Downtown

Dine by the calm waters of Dubai Canal with dates, dry fruits and nuts to welcome guests, followed by lentil soup and homemade bread with mezze. Then, enjoy hot mezze of meat kibbeh and spinach fatayer, then live grill stations as well as international dishes like stir-fried noodles and paneer butter masala. For dessert, a chocolate fountain is a fun way to round things off.

St Regis Downtown, Business Bay, sunset to 8pm, Dhs270, Dhs135 children under 12. Tel: (0)4 512 5555. @stregisdowntowndubai

The St Regis Downtown Dubai

With the stunning backdrop of Dubai Water Canal, this outdoor iftar will bring your family together.It’s a combination of traditional and contemporary.

St Regis Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, sunset to 8pm, Dhs270, Dhs135 for children under 12, Tel: (0)4 512 5522 @stregisdowntowndubai

Tagomago

This beach club and restaurant on Palm Jumeirah is offering an iftar menu that’s perfect for families, friends or even larger gatherings where groups of 10 or more pay Dhs300. Enjoy the gorgeous sunset over the Arabian Gulf as you enjoy the iftar with a Mediterranean twist.

Azure Residence, Palm Jumeirah, from sunset, Dhs375. Tel: (0)4 832 6620. @tagomagodubai

Sunset 55

Ramadan evenings at Sunset 55 bring families and friends together for a Turkishinspired iftar by the sea. Shared mezze platters open the experience, followed by live grill stations and traditional Turkish counters. Arabic coffee, and dates too, all in an open-air coastal atmosphere.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, sunset to 9pm, Dhs298, Dhs149 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 818 2222. @sunset55_dubai

Uptown Social

With a tasty set menu, Uptown Social’s Ramadan offering includes a specially created set menu. Enjoy a 3-course meal for only Dhs99 per person

Uptown Dubai, from sunset, Dhs99.Tel: (0)50 272 5729. uptownsocialdubai.com

DUBAI IFTARS

Urban Eatery

Urban Eatery invites guests to share an iftar spread starting at Dhs119 per person. The buffet brings a selection of Middle Eastern and international dishes, complemented by live grill stations. Choose to dine within the restaurant’s relaxed, earthy indoor space or opt for the outdoor seating area.

Holiday Inn Dubai Village Circle, from sunset to 9pm, Dhs119.Tel: (0)4 563 1520. @urbaneaterydxb

Vida Creek Harbour

Vida Creek Harbour’s sunset views are truly spectacular. Enjoy a buffet-style iftar spread at The Courtyard with traditional Middle Eastern delicacies and international plates, accompanied by Ramadan juices. Unwind after your meal with captivating views of Dubai’s cityscape.

Vida Creek Harbour, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Dhs265, Dhs132.50 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 428 8888. vidahotels.com

Vida Creek Beach

Head to Origins and enjoy an effortlessly chic iftar with front-row lagoon views and a laid-back coastal mood. The buffet blends traditional Arabic flavours with a modern, share-friendly twist.

Vida Creek Harbour, sunset to 9pm, Dhs235, Dhs117.50 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 542 8888. vidahotels.com

Vida Dubai Mall

Set on Vida Dubai Mall’s banquet terrace, the experience pairs live cooking stations and rich Arabic flavours with Burj Khalifa views that glow just as the call to prayer echoes across Downtown. This iftar will also be paired with soft oud music, adding to the easygoing terrace atmosphere.

Vida Dubai Mall 6.30pm to 10pm, Dhs215, Dhs108 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 549 8888. vidahotels.com

Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club

The experience brings together chic maritime style and the warmth of Ramadan dining, on the banquet terrace. Enjoy a buffet-style iftar spread with delicacies from different countries around the region. Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Dhs215, Dhs108 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 428 8888. vidahotels.com

Village Bistro

Gather with loved ones and enjoy an iftar buffet experience at the charming Village Bistro, The First Collection in JVC for just Dhs175 per person. There’s even a live oud player.

Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai, sunset to 9pm, Dhs175, Dhs85 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 275 6621. @villagebistrodubai

Vida Emirates Hills

Head to Origins for an iftar that feels like a quiet countryside escape without ever leaving Dubai. The buffet features Arabic favourites with a touch of flair, perfect if you’re looking for a more elevated experience of breaking your fast.

Vida Emirates Hills, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs215, Dhs108 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 428 8888. vidahotels.com

voco Bonnington

Head to Author’s Lounge for this take on iftar, plus it’s perfect for groups. The menu brings Middle Eastern favourites such as lamb ouzi for main course and of course, kunafa to finish on something sweet.

voco Bonnington, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, sunset to 9pm, Dhs149. Tel: (0) 50 927. 5711. @vocobonnington

DUBAI IFTARS

voco Dubai the Palm

Frenia Rooftop Lounge is bringing iftar to a tranquil rooftop setting, with panoramic views, a carefully curated buffet with live cooking stations, and a warm, lantern-lit ambience.

voco Dubai the Palm, sunset to 9pm, Dhs250. Tel: (0) 52 934 6282. @vocodubaithepalm

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

A popular iftar, Mezzerie’s Ramadan offering is infused with the essence of local spices, and the dining space seamlessly blends Western charm with delicate Arabic accents, creating a wonderful ambiance.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, from sunset, Dhs298. Tel: (0)4 818 2222. @waldorfdubai

Vyne Restaurant & Terrace

Enjoy an iftar spread of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes at the warm and welcoming Vyne. Embrace the relaxed outdoor setting for a gathering with loved ones.

The First Collection Business Bay, sunset to 9pm, Dhs169, Dhs84.50 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)4 873 4422. thefirstcollection.ae

Zenon

Tradition meets the future at this iftar by Zenon as it’s brought to life by cutting AI visuals and multi-sensory storytelling. Start with dates, bread, olives and soup, then move on to sharing starters, choose from cod or lamb for the mains and finish off with a sweet note.

Kempinski Central Avenue, 6pm to 8pm, Dhs275. Tel: (0)4 837 7222. @zenondubai

IFTARS IN NORTHERN EMIRATES

WHERE TO BREAK YOUR FAST

NORTHERN EMIRATES IFTARS

Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah Resort

Head to Sea Breeze and break your fast at an incredible iftar buffet, which brings together Ramadan favourites and Arabic classics in a setting where you can truly relax and focus on spending time with your loved ones. Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah Resort, sunset to 10pm, Dhs225. Tel: (0) 720 42222. @anantararasalkhaimah

Berenjak

Enjoy an iftar of rich, flavourful Irani dishes served to the table, with a set menu of starters, a choice of main, then desserts. It’s available at Berenjak’s venues in both Dubai and Sharjah. Misk 4 Al Jada - Muwaileh Commercial, Sharjah, from sunset, Dhs210. Tel: (0)6 539 6052. berenjakuae.com

DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island

Meze at DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island has a welcoming iftar for friends, family and loved ones. You’ll find authentic Turkish dishes, sizzling live grills and the beauty of Ramadan traditions. Enjoy the live Oud music too while you enjoy your food. DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island, sunset to 8.30pm Dhs159, Dhs79.50 children from six to 12. Tel: (0)7 203 0104. @meze.rak

Farmhouse By Syrco

Savour a soulful Ramadan menu crafted by Chef Syrco, highlighting seasonal, locally inspired ingredients. The iftar is designed for sharing, with the elegant dining experience blending sustainability with heartfelt hospitality.

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, sunset to 9pm, Dhs295. Tel: (0)7 206 7777. ritzcarlton.com

NORTHERN EMIRATES IFTARS

Kaheela

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in an authentic Ritz-Carlton iftar experience at Kaaheela. Indulge in a lavish family-style sharing menu. Taste authentic Arabic and Levantine flavours and spend quality time with family when you break your fast.

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, sunset to 9pm, Dhs295. Tel: (0)7 206 7777. ritzcarlton.com

Kan Zaman

Experience a lavish buffet beneath the starlit dunes at Kan Zaman, showcasing rich Arabic and Levantine traditions.

Live cooking stations and cultural entertainment create an unforgettable evening of flavour and festivity.

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, sunset to 9pm, Dhs345. Tel: (0)7 206 7777. ritzcarlton.com

Longbeach Campground

This unique iftar by Longbeach Campground is perfect for those wanting something different in Ras Al Khaimah. It offers a buffet on the beach featuring live BBQ stations and a warm seaside setting. You can add shisha, too, if you want/like. Longbeach Campground, Ras Al Khaimah, from sunset, Dhs115, Dhs55 children aged six to 11. Tel: 600 566 600.

@longbeachcampground

Movenpick Al Marjan

The family-friendly iftar buffet at Movenpick Al Marjan promises a rotating-menu of Ramadan classics like lamb ouzi and chicken biriyani, plus live stations of chicken shawarma and the crowd-pleasing Arabic mixed grill. Save room for Arabic sweets at the dessert station.

Movenpick Al Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah, from sunset to 8pm, Dhs160, Dhs80 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)7 246 0000. @movenpickalmarjan

Pullman Al Marjan Island

This Ramadan, Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island invites guests to experience a vibrant open-air iftar at the corniche, where the gentle sea breeze, pleasant evening weather and starlit skies set the scene for an unforgettable Ramadan gathering. Pullman Al Marjan, from sunset, Dhs129 if booked before February 15, Dhs179 after. Tel: (0)54 991 8862. pullman.accor.com

NORTHERN EMIRATES IFTARS

The Ritz-Carlton, Al Hamra Beach

Nestled along the tranquil shores of Ras Al Khaimah, this iftar offers the perfect setting to break your fast with loved ones, where the gentle sea breeze and serene ambiance play backdrop to a family-style menu.

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra, from sunset, Dhs175 per person, Dhs300 for two. Tel: (0)7 204 8888. ritzcarlton.com

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort invites you to experience a feast for the senses. Each night during Ramadan, delight in the soothing melodies of an oud player as you indulge in an iftar spread of Arabian and international cuisine, complete with live cooking stations – all backdropped by the serene beach.

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, Ras Al Khaimah, 6pm to 10pm, Dhs185, Dhs92 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)7 209 6000. @sofitelalhamra

Iftar at Level 6 Terrace

Venue: Level 6 Terrace, Vida Dubai Mall

Time: Throughout Ramadan, sunset to 8.30pm

Prices starting from AED 215 per person