We sit down with some of Dubai’s leading lady entrepreneurs
30 TREND MAXXING
Food trends to look out for in Dubai this year
Page 40 Ride ‘n’ dine Dubai tasting menus
08 WHAT’S ON LOVES
Welcome to our 2026 travel vision board
12 YALLA!
March’s essential Dubai dates for your diary
36 HASTA LA GLORIA
Has this Milanese import got the chops to cut in Dubai?
We separate the weat from the tru e
44 DXB OGS
Our love letter to Dubai’s long-standing taste makers, the stories behind their staying power, and the secrets in their sauce
46 GIFT HOUSE
Your essential guide to Eid gifting. A collection of presents with the presence to outlast the holidays
60 SOFT RESET
52 BIG DUNE BEATS
Everything you need to know about making shapes in the sand at Keinemusik’s Pacha Icons desert rave-up
54 MORE TO MUSEUMS
Wellness activities to help you switch off (and back on again)
68 BRAND GLAMP
Up the luxe with the UAE’s best new glamping spots
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.
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Forget guided tour headsets, these UAE cultural hubs are going beyond the crimson rope to give your visit real substance WhatsOn.ae
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TIME TO COUNT OUR BLESSINGS
Ramadan provides the perfect lens to analyse and appreciate our privileges. To empathise with those less fortunate – yes, but also to seek out silver linings and refocus on meaningful aspirations too. We are incredibly lucky to be living this life of ours, in a country as blessed as ours, and with the arrival of Eid this month we get an to opportunity to celebrate all of it. This is the core mandate of the issue: making the most of UAE living. Inside, we’ll show you how to travel the globe, whilst safely remaining within the seven emirates (p.14); we’ve got cost effective and wildly inventive ways to absorb the attention span of littl’uns over the spring break (p.24); a shout out to the
Obsession Confession
UAE’s entrepreneurs building a brighter tomorrow (p.20); a round of applause for Dubai institutions that have stood the test of time (p.44); and how to bring it all back into balance (p.60).
Yin and yang, privilege and purpose, learning and celebration – may we be judged by what we do when nobody is watching, and not on the quality of our Instagram posts. Although if we can help make those feeds look a little more exciting, we’ll take that as a win, too.
May your March be all you need it to be. Enjoy the issue.
With Ramadan this month, the office focus has moved away from the usual musings of food and music and, bizarrely, found itself fixated on catchphrases from old memes and early internet vines. Some of the headline acts have been: “bye driver”, “what’s a matter baby?”, “look at all those chickens”, and “you’re joking, not another one”. Sure it shows our age, but it’s seasonally appropriate bonding and if you have a problem with it, you can “cash us outside, how bow dah?”
TEAM’S POV
We answer the questions you didn’t even ask.
What are you watching or reading this month?
Pamela Bayram Senior Sales Manager
I am reading The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak for the second time after 10 years. It’s a beautiful novel about love, life and God. It’s amazing how different the story feels now.
Madie Murphy Deputy Editor
If you’re after an easy watch, stick on Clarkson’s Farm. You don’t need to know a thing about farming (trust me, neither does Clarkson), but watching Jeremy attempt to run a farm is pure entertainment.
Miles Buckeridge Contributing Editor
At Home by Bill Bryson. It’s old, but I’m making my way through the author’s greatest hits. Nobody can spin a non-fiction, historically accurate yarn like Bryson. The quality of his words keeps my writing ego in check.
WHAT’S ON POV… THIS MONTH
The rest of this magazine puts forward the case for staying in the UAE over the Eid break, so in the interest of balance, we’re sharing our 2026 travel goals with you
Manchester
Manchester. I typically have a bucket list full of far-flung destinations to tick off, but my sister is due to give birth in a few weeks, and I’m really feeling the distance right now. So the next flight I’ll be taking is home to meet my new nephew - I can’t wait!
Alice Holtham-Pargin
Contributing Editor
Osaka
Ireland
Ireland. Nothing makes you appreciate Dubai weather quite like non-stop rain for your entire trip. I do miss those green fields, though.
Madie
Murphy
Deputy Editor
Lebanon
Cuba
Cuba. I want colour and music and streets that feel like a film set. Ever since watching Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, I’ve romanticised the whole thing. The sun on my skin, salsa in the air, zero emails. That’s the dream.
Leonie Wagner Features Editor
Osaka. The city is safe for families, clean, and has excellent shopping options. It’s also home to some of the most incredible street food in Asia… takoyaki, yakisoba and butaman. If I close my eyes, I can almost taste it.
Sheila Deocareza Art Director
Lebanon. *Clicks ruby slippers* because there is no place like home.
Pamela Bayram Senior Sales Manager
Florence
Florence. I fell in love with the Duomo after reading Brunelleschi’s Dome by Ross King long before I finally visited in 2023. And yet, every so often, I feel an irresistible pull to stand beneath that dome again. Maybe this time I’ll even climb the 463 narrow and steep steps to the top.
Aarti Saundalkar Arts and Culture Features Editor
Australia
Australia. My best friend (who also happens to be my sisterin-law) has just welcomed a beautiful baby boy and my sister is getting married, so double the celebrations, double the excitement. Safe to say, aunty Sammy duties are officially ON… and I cannot wait.
Sammi Barnard Junior Reporter
ADAARAN SELECT HUDHURAN FUSHI, MALDIVES
More choice than you can imagine
If you’re the kind of traveller who wants options – lots of them – Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi might just be your perfect Maldives match. This expansive private island is designed around choice, meaning every guest can holiday their own way.
The island itself sets the tone. It’s large and lush, with banyan trees, palm-fringed beaches and a wide lagoon, so you can choose between lively activity or quiet stretches of sand. Early-morning snorkelling or diving session? Slow beachfront stroll? Poolside cocktail? It’s all on the table.
The 24-hour premium all-inclusive experience adds another layer of flexibility. Beyond unlimited dining and selected beverages, guests can dip into daily activities and scheduled excursions too. Prefer something more tailored? Private dinners, specialty excursions and premium services are available as add-ons, letting you customise the experience to suit your style.
Dining is where the variety really shines. With four restaurants and four bars, you can switch from generous buffet spreads with live cooking stations to refined à la carte dinners or casual beachfront bites. There’s even a 24-hour poolside cocktail bar, so whether you’re an early riser or night owl, you’re covered.
Families have their own choices too. The Koamas Kids Club offers supervised activities ranging from creative workshops to treasure hunts, while calm, shallow waters and beginner-friendly water sports equipment make it easy to explore together. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy fishing trips, sunset cruises, dolphinwatching excursions and special experiences such as guided reef walks and island nature trails.
Add in spa rituals, yoga, cultural performances like bodu beru drumming and Maldivian cooking demonstrations, and high-energy water sports, and you’ve got a resort that genuinely caters to everyone – adventurers, foodies, wellness lovers and families alike.
For best available rates and to plan your stay, scan the QR code and visit the website.
SCAN HERE TO BOOK YOUR STAY
Through MY EYES Chef Sperxos
THE UAE ACCORDING TO...
We ask residents to share a guide to the UAE through their eyes, their favourite places, hidden gems and brands they love. This month, Chef Sperxos, CEO and founder of Efzin Group, shares his recommendations. He moved to Dubai over 11 years ago and started Efzin Group seven years ago to create personal and meaningful dining experiences. What began as one idea has now grown into more than five concepts and 15 outlets.
Readles
Culinara, One Za’abeel
Readles is a one-of-a-kind museum experience, billed as the world’s first museum dedicated to artificial intelligence. Designed as an immersive and interactive space, it blends storytelling, art and technology, using AI to create fresh ways to experience culture and creativity. @readles.ae
Culinara is a social dining hall on the 24th floor of The Link with panoramic views. It brings together multiple kitchens and bars under one roof. Every Friday and Saturday, live music and DJ sets create a great atmosphere. @culinaradubai
One&Only One Za’abeel
A luxury hotel with modern design and stunning city views. It’s a great place to stay if you want comfort, style and exceptional service. @ooonezaabeel
Efzin Fresh, Dubai Hills
I’m always thinking about what I eat, so I choose healthy food whenever I can. Efzin Fresh uses seasonal, sustainable ingredients and offers balanced meals that fit into everyday life. @efzin.ae
RAMADAN CANNONS
When: Daily until 19 March 2026
As the sun dips below the skyline each evening, a ceremonial blank shot signals the moment of iftar. The Ramadan cannon – a longstanding tradition in the UAE – is fired twice at the start of the holy month, followed by a single shot at sunset each day. You can witness the tradition at permanent locations including Al Khawaneej Majlis, Burj Khalifa, Damac Hills, Expo City Dubai, JA Hatta Fort Hotel and SALT Camp at Kite Beach. Mobile locations this year include The Meydan Hotel, Za’abeel Park, Dubai Festival City, Madinat Jumeirah, Uptown Mirdif and Kite Beach.
Tickets: Free
THE EVENTS WE’RE BOOKING THIS MARCH YALLA
WORDS: SAMMI BARNARD
RAMADAN FIREWORKS NIGHTS
When: Everyday to 19 March
Looking to add a little sparkle to your Ramadan evenings? Head to Al Seef, where the night sky lights up with free fireworks displays at 9.30pm throughout the holy month. It’s an easy, family-friendly outing that still feels special – wander the waterfront, settle in before sunset and stay for the show.
Tickets: Free @alseefdubai
MO GILLIGAN LIVE
When: 18 March 2026
Dubai Opera is about to get loud! Mo Gilligan returns to the city for one night only, bringing his rapid-fire punchlines and brilliantly chaotic storytelling back to the stage. The British comedy heavyweight first broke through with viral social clips before landing a co-hosting role on The Big Narstie Show and selling out arenas across the UK. His material blends sharp cultural observations with off-the-cuff crowd work – the kind that has audiences laughing long after the curtain falls.
Trade the treadmill for twinkling skyscrapers. This midweek night run kicks off from Meydan Royal Bridge at 7.30pm, with Sheikh Zayed Road and Business Bay as your glittering backdrops. Choose from 3km, 5km or 10km and rally your friends, family or office crew to the start line. Cross the finish and you’ll leave with more than bragging rights: every runner receives a race shirt, medal, certificate and refreshments. Fitness, but make it social.
If your teenage playlist featured Big Time Rush, consider this essential. The pop group brings its In Real Life Worldwide Tour to Coca-Cola Arena for what promises to be one of the biggest nostalgia-fuelled nights of the month. Expect a tightly choreographed, hit-heavy set packed with fan favourites, slick production and full-throttle singalong moments. Special guests Katelyn Tarver and Stephen Kramer Glickman – familiar to many as Gustavo from the TV series – add to the throwback appeal.
Doors open at 6.30pm.
Tickets: From Dhs295 @cocacolaarena
THE LAUGHTER FACTORY: MARCH
When: 6 to 14 March
DUBAI CHALLENGE CUP
When: 7 to 14 March
Where else can you sip something sparkling while worldclass athletes thunder past on horseback? The Dubai Challenge Cup returns to Al Habtoor Polo Club for a week of high-level competition and polished social energy. Part of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series, this 8- to 10-goal championship is one of the region’s most anticipated tournaments – and the only one recognised by the World Polo Tour and played under Hurlingham Polo Association rules. Expect fast breaks, flying turf and serious skill as international teams battle for the trophy. Off the field, the atmosphere is just as compelling. Think polo picnics, live entertainment and a well-dressed crowd. Upgrade to the VIP Lounge for fine dining and prime views of the action. Tickets: Various packages available @dubai.polocup
Your March diary just found its punchline. The Laughter Factory returns with a triple bill of stand-up talent touring Dubai, led by Irish comic Andrew Ryan alongside Yash Bhardwaj and Rula Korbann. Ryan, known for sold-out tours across Ireland, the UK and Europe, brings quick wit and razor-sharp timing. He’s joined by Flamingo Live founder Yash Bhardwaj, fresh from the Adelaide Fringe Festival, and Rula Korbann, whose storytelling leans into sharply observed, relatable life moments. Three comics, one stage, guaranteed laughs.
Tickets: From Dhs140 @thelaughterfactory
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
WHY GET ON A FLIGHT THIS EID
HOLIDAY, WHEN EVERYTHING YOU NEED IS HERE?
The Eid al Fitr holidays have traditionally been a time when the thoughts of UAE residents turn to trips abroad. Last-minute flights to far-flung corners of the globe, in search of rest, relaxation and wringing every last drop of free annual leave from the long weekend. But what if we told you that
there was a better way to sate your wanderlust? One that doesn’t involve panic-stricken visa appointments, rapidly escalating airfares or using ChatGPT to give you mental arithmetic crib notes on how many dong to the dirham. We can show you the world habibi, and it’s all right here in the UAE.
Honeymoon vibes, white-washed walls and Santorini surf.
UAE DUPE: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
Given this property’s name, this is lowhanging fruit. But if it is indeed fruit, then it is the Persephonean pomegranate of Grecian myth, tempting us to eat of its seed and embark on its odyssey. The Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat is no gimmick hotel, it’s not one of those celebrity tribute acts that only bear resemblance when you squint your eyes and tilt your head. It’s a studied homage, a Venn overlap of bleached domes, sun parched pebbles and striking blues, a 22-key boutique bolt hole on the secluded shoreline of Ghantoot. All of this plus 24hour butler service and zero queueing for sundowner selfies at the local beauty spots. Prices from around Dhs3,230 per night, @anantarasantorini
The lush greens and storied hill forts of Rajasthan.
We’re fully aware that this isn’t an exact like-for-like, but allow us to put forward evidence for why the comparison should stand. Both locations are known for their lush green embrace: Rajasthan is India’s ‘Land of Colours’, featuring a patchwork of deep verdant jungle, whilst the oases and palm forests of Al Ain have helped earn it the moniker of ‘The Garden City’ in the UAE; both locations have tigers (although it should be stated that Al Ain’s are in a zoo); you’ll find soul-stirring examples of hill forts in both destinations, and whilst Rajasthan might have the edge in Maharaja architectural majesty, some of Al Ain’s own UNESCO-backed homesteads date back to the Neolithic period.
UAE DUPE: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
Cosying up with hot chocolate and marshmallows in a Swiss mountain chalet.
UAE DUPE: Hatta’s Damani Lodges, Dubai
If your idea of an Alpine escape is more about what happens après ski, than during the actual ski – it might make financial sense to swap Zermatt for Hatta this year. The chance of seeing snow at these secluded mountain lodges is almost zero, but the vibes remain suitably chill. The eco-cabins of Damani Lodge Resort come with their own fire pit for toasting s’mores and a mountain-view terrace for tranquil contemplation. If you absolutely have to disrupt the peace with some form of active pursuit in place of skiing, you’re in luck. Hatta’s valleys over-runneth with ways to spend your calories – including kayaking, hiking, biking, zorbing, and archery. Lodge stays from Dhs938 per night for two people, visithatta.com
Snorkel tours of the Red Sea’s reefscape.
UAE DUPE: Snoopy Island, Fujairah
For diving enthusiasts based in the UAE, the waters around Fujairah’s Snoopy Island are an essential bucket (and spade) list tick. Swim, snorkel, or scuba dive around the iconic island, known for its impressive collection of marine life. Frequented by turtles and reef sharks, underwater tours can take divers over living reefs and mysterious shipwrecks. And, back up on land, you can stay at Sandy Beach Hotel and Resort – a relaxed, chalet-style retreat known for its bohemian festivals and laid-back vibe. With affordable day passes, an infinity pool, and Fujairah’s only waterpark, it has the low-key charm of a boutique Sharm El Sheikh. Hotel stays at Sandy Beach Hotel and Resort start at around Dhs735, @sandybeachresort
Neon marina sunsets, food with fuego and Miami F1 glamour.
Same same, but different. Especially with some of Yas Marina’s more glamorous recent F&B additions, Bar Du Port and Bla Bla. There’s the synergy of beach proximity and F1 tracks (and it’s not just for race month, you can tackle the lanes and chicanes of Yas Marina Circuit on bike and in-car throughout the year); the entertainment attractions that include Florida-tier theme parks; both locations have easy access to famous golf courses and are regional ambassadors for nightlife and mega yachts; there’s the world-class Etihad Arena just down the road from Yas Marina, hosting (among other things) thick sporting slices of Americana; and what are mangroves if not the UAE’s own Everglades? Party in the city where the heat is on, all night, on the beach ‘til the break of dawn, welcome to Abu Dhabi.
The calming lull of Maldivian over-water villa living.
UAE DUPE: Bab Al Nojoum
Hudayriyat Villas, Abu Dhabi
There are now a few different UAE resorts offering over-water villa stays, but some of them don’t feel like an atoll, at all. Here on Hudayriyat Island – the deep blues and untroubled views feel like a cleaner nod to Indian Ocean pearls. These villas at Bab Al Nojoum can sleep up to five people, and feature their own private plunge pools and sundowner decks. There’s no seaplane transfer required and no long queues at immigration, but if you fix your eyes on the horizon you might still be able to spot a dolphin or two.
UAE DUPE: Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi
Exploring the ancient artifacts of New York’s museums.
UAE DUPE: Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
There are few places on Earth that can rival the amount of museums Manhattan manages to squish into its 12 districts. But Saadiyat Island, at roughly half the size, might have gone a step further – fitting six huge heritage institutions (with a Guggenheim on the way) into one Cultural District. It would take days to fully explore all that the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abrahamic Family House, Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, have to offer. There are opportunities to absorb art, history, science, culture, huge immersive ‘living installations’, interstellar objects that are older than the earth, priceless masterpieces and mysterious manuscripts. And whilst New York might have skyscrapers and subways, it doesn’t have Saadiyat’s glorious unspoiled beaches on its doorstep, year-round sunshine or Raclette’s baked camembert. All of which are fully deserving of their own museum space.
The dazzling lights and fever dream themes of Las Vegas.
UAE DUPE: Global Village, Dubai
There will be a few more natural contenders for this dupe crown in a couple of years, with construction on Wynn Al Marjan Island well on the way in Ras Al Khaimah and the MGM Resort island megaproject in Dubai set for completion in 2028. Until then we have Global Village, a twinkling ChatGPT prompt interpretation of what Vegas might be sans the casinos. It’s practically a town-sized attraction that includes pavilions cosplaying as nation states; faux palaces and floating markets; funfair rides and carnival games; concerts; step-right-up emporiums; roaming entertainment; a myriad food stops; fireworks; and big, almost Vegas-esque, shows. It features the same bulb-bedazzled visitors wandering around in a daze of distraction, unable to take in the full spectacle of each blink. It’s cheer and themed clothing, neon and noise, pitch and floss, kitsch and awe – all rolled into one near irresolvable desert pocket. It’s Vegas baby, just as the rest of the world knows it. Tickets from around Dhs25, @globalvillageuae
Feeling the Balinese breeze blow through a thatchsheltered beach club.
This popular spot in one of the UAE’s lesser talked about emirates really is ‘giving’ Bali. Or perhaps Tulum. It’s an image aided by the surfable swells, thatched parasols, timber beach huts, natural-material-constructed restaurant, and alfresco ‘jungle gym’. The operators know exactly what they’re evoking and they lean into it. The relatively unengineered skyline of the locale, also adds to sense of distance from the frantic rhythm of UAE urban sprawl. It’s the best bits about Bali, in one of the quieter, more accessible quarters of the Middle East. Beach days from Dhs75, @kitesurfbeachcenter
Taking a scenic walk through an old European capital.
UAE DUPE: French Village, Riverland Dubai
There are a few UAE places that come to mind when you consider homegrown simulations of European cities. City Walk can feel, in various corners, a bit like London’s South Bank (as long as you don’t think about it for too long); Fashion Avenue shares big name boutiques with those of the Champs-Élysées; there’s some vague Berlin vibes in Alserkal; Nice is nice, but J1 Beach offers similar coastal glamour and is significantly closer. But if you really want to trick your frontal cortex into a bout of Riviera reverie, French Village in the central staging area of Riverland (Dubai Parks and Resorts), could be just the billet. It’s a detailed replica of a an old provencal town –with watermills, treelined courtyards and cobbled pretty much everything. In truth it’s uncanny valley territory, real enough to sell the pictures, and just artificial enough to offer uneasy liminal allure. Free to visit, @riverlanddubai
UAE DUPE: Kite Surf Beach, Umm Al Quwain
Meet the female founders behind Dubai’s homegrown success stories
WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN
LUCY GIBSON
Founder of Sand Dollar and Heart Cottage Lane
Why is Dubai a great city to be a female entrepreneur?
One major factor is the flexibility to juggle home life and work. Safety and stability, world-class schools and extra support - I have amazing help at home and a flexible husband who helps with school drop-offs – they really do aid my success.
What inspired you to start your businesses?
It was due to a combination of being young and willing to take risks (I didn’t have children and responsibility when I started Sand Dollar), I wanted to work for myself after working hard under strict leadership, and it was the right place and the right time. I saw a gap in the market in an environment of sunshine all year and thought I’d give it a go!
Founder of Jetlagged Chef
What inspired you to start Jetlagged Chef?
The story behind Jetlagged Chef starts with my love of cooking; I’ve always enjoyed the small details that go into creating meals that bring people joy. When I saw an opportunity to bring that same feeling into the calorie-tracked world, I jumped at it. I love getting creative with our meals and giving people something they don’t expect from meal prep.
What’s your favourite way to spend a day in Dubai?
Even on my days off, I usually end up doing something cooking-related. There’s something very therapeutic about cooking, apart from the cleaning up. I love making Aussie-inspired breakfasts or hosting my girlfriends for dinner.
What piece of advice would you give to someone at the start of their business journey?
Start slow and build your business organically. Do not rush and remain resilient. If it were that easy, everyone would be doing it. Work through the hard times and don’t give up.
What’s your favourite way to spend a day in Dubai?
Away from the five-star restaurants and fancy beach clubs, I enjoy going back to basics with a mountain walk in Ras Al Khaimah or the Mushrif Park hiking trail, or a rustic trip to Oman, where I used to live as a child. Old school Dubai resorts are another place I love to go, such as JA, where the beaches are quiet. @sanddollardubai, @heartcottagelanedxb
ELIZA HUTCHINSON
What piece of advice would you give to someone at the start of their business journey?
Get involved in as many areas of your business as possible. Knowledge is power, and understanding your product, team, customers and company better than anyone else will always be a superpower. Listen to your customers but try not to take everything to heart. All feedback is useful. And of course, have fun.
What’s the best part about being a female founder in Dubai?
The community of female founders here is incredibly warm and empowering. Dubai is a city where women genuinely want to connect and collaborate simply to support one another. It really does feel like a business sisterhood.
@jetlagged_chef
Sand Dollar
Lucy Gibson
Eliza Hutchinson
SOPHIE MALPASS
Founder of Super SUP Fit
How did you come to start Super SUP Fit?
I vividly remember seeing someone do a downwardfacing dog on a stand-up paddleboard on holiday in Greece in the sea around 7 years ago –it felt like a lightbulb went off in my head. I wanted to create a workout I wish I could go to. Trained as an exprofessional dancer, fitness classes lost their magic, so I’m massively passionate that movement should be celebrated and, above all, fun! Being in water with sunshine instantly boosts energy, and having permission to splash as an adult is something we never really do anymore. The balance adds an extra challenge, and I wanted to create a unique and really special mind and soul experience in some of Dubai’s most incredible locations.
GABRIELA CHAMORRO
What inspired you to start your business?
Girl & the Goose began as a deeply personal project. I wanted to tell my story through food and give Central American flavours a voice in a city where they were largely missing. The supper club allowed me to cook honestly and build a community around one table, without pressure or pretence. A restaurant was never the initial goal. After five years of hosting supper clubs, the idea evolved naturally through relationships built on trust. It became a true collaboration grounded in shared values, respect, and a long-term vision.
Why is Dubai a great city to be a female entrepreneur?
Dubai rewards ambition and action. It’s a city where ideas are taken seriously,
What’s the best part about being a female founder in Dubai?
The opportunities are literally endless! I could only have dreamt of some of the experiences I have had here. The help and support of other women, both in and out of business, has been so warm, genuinely heartfelt and collaborative.
What piece of advice would you give to someone at the start of their business journey? It will never be perfect (trust me), just start, and you can work it out as you go – that’s the best part. Life is too short to build someone else’s dream, so just go for it.
@supersupfit
@girl.and.the.goose have mindset grow
regardless of gender, age, or background. As a female entrepreneur, I’ve found the ecosystem to be incredibly open-minded, fast-moving, and supportive. There is space here to build something from scratch, to test, adapt, and grow quickly. More importantly, there is genuine respect for women who lead with clarity, discipline, and purpose.
What’s the best part about being a female founder in Dubai?
The sense of community. There’s a strong network of women here who lead with generosity rather than competition. Being a female founder in Dubai means being part of a broader conversation about building responsibly, supporting one another, and creating businesses that have meaning beyond profit. That shared mindset is empowering.
Founder of Girl & the Goose
Super SUP Fit
Girl & the Goose
Gabriela Chamorro
Sophie Malpass
BECKY BALDERSTONE
Founder of The Ripe Market
What’s your favourite way to spend a day in Dubai?
With my family, enjoying the outdoors, discovering new homegrown food concepts, and making time for health and wellness. There’s always something new opening here, and I love how the city constantly evolves while still offering space to slow down.
What inspired you to start your business?
I recognised a gap in the market for accessible, locally grown organic produce and a need for stronger community connection. What began as a way to support local farmers and small businesses quickly evolved into something much bigger. As Ripe grew, I realised there was a real demand for platforms that champion homegrown talent, creativity, and entrepreneurship and that vision continues to drive everything I do today.
Founder of SOTA Salon
Why is Dubai a great city to be a female entrepreneur?
Dubai truly is the land of opportunity, which is why it’s such a powerful place for female entrepreneurs. You can have an idea here and genuinely bring it to life. Not everyone has the drive or mental strength to build something from the ground up, but if you do, Dubai is a place where you can thrive. It supports growth on a different level, puts you in rooms you never imagined, and shows you what’s possible when ambition is matched with action. There are no limits to growth here if you’re willing to do the work.
What piece of advice would you give to someone at the start of their business journey?
If you have a goal or even a plan, you’re already halfway there. Take the risk and just go for it! You won’t have everything figured out at the
What’s the best part about being a female founder in Dubai?
One of the best parts is the sense of possibility. Dubai is a place where ideas can turn into reality very quickly and being a female founder here means being part of a growing, inspiring community of women who are building meaningful businesses across industries. There’s a strong culture of collaboration and support, and I’ve found that people are genuinely open to backing ideas that create value and impact.
@ripemarket
SOPHIE JONES
beginning, and that’s okay. Rome wasn’t built in a day’ Consistency and core values matter, especially when building a team. Choose wisely, take your time, from experience rushing this can be detrimental. Make sure the people you bring into your business truly align with what your brand stands for.
What’s your favourite way to spend a day in Dubai?
My favourite days are when I get to watch my team win, supporting them as they reach both personal and professional goals is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing their growth reminds me of why I built SOTA the way I did.
@sota.salon
The Ripe Market
SOTA Salon
Sophie Jones
Becky Balderstone
Alphabet parenting
For kids, school holidays are peak living – essential respites from the relentless attempts of educators to stuff little brains full of life-sustaining, futurebrightening knowledge. For parents, however, it’s more often a time of anxiety. Of peer pressure to be present, panic playdate scheduling, and chronic screen time guilt. Thankfully, the UAE has been very deliberate
in curating its family-friendly activities. So much so that we’ve been able to run through the full alphabet of entertainment enticements for children, with precisely no mention of Robux, Brain Rot, or those infuriating *does hand gesture* two numbers. Giving the little ones a school holiday to remember this spring break? It’s as easy as A, B, C...
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
is for... Aventura
Found amongst the emblematic ghaf trees of Mushrif Park, Aventura is a 35,000 sqm activity park that treats gravity with the high-handed contempt it deserves. Composed of circuit-style obstacles, elevated assault courses, a discovery playground with animal encounters, forest escape games and more than 24 ziplines, it’s a great way to get kids out in the fresh air, actively engaged and consequently nap-ready for the car journey home. Activities from Dhs80. aventuraparks.com
is for... Building confidence
One location that’s always found amongst our top picks for sneaking some covert STEM learning into the school break is OliOli. Inside the Al Quoz FunderDrome, you’ll find eight experiential galleries, each offering its own uniquely enthralling hands-on edutainment challenges. From building pneumatic rockets to diving into the fun side of fluid dynamics (sounds unlikely, we know, but true) and conducting an orchestra of holographic sea creatures – it’s a day of play that’s best suited to kids aged between two and six years old (though toddlers over 12 months have their own zone, and children up to 16 can enter the main galleries). Tickets from Dhs169. OliOli.ae
is for... Camping in the desert
Core memories don’t have to be built out of extravagant gestures. Sometimes it’s as easy as loading up the car and heading for the dunes. For camping first-timers, and those without access to off-road vehicles, it makes sense to head for established, easily accessible sites. If you’re based in Dubai, the Al Qudra Lakes Campground ticks a lot of boxes. Wildlife (ducks and flamingos), scenic lakeside space for tent pitching, barbecue friendly sites, and it’s far enough away from city lights to do a spot of s’mores-fuelled cosmos gazing.
is for... Dinosaurs
We’ve got yabbadabba-two dinosaur-themed adventures for you here. The first, fair trigger warning, does involve screens. Dinosaurs: The Immersive Odyssey at Dubai Festival City Mall, claims to reimagine Jurassic Park (though for its own sake, we presume sans the opencage policy and resultant litigation) through a VR tour, an interactive science lab, and an invite to ‘meet life-sized’ dinos (Dhs59). There’s more raptor-charged rapture at Dubai Parks and Resorts, where T-Rex Glamping is now available. Safari-style tented accommodation is supplemented by visits from Triassic Megapoda and entry to the adjoining theme park of your choice (from Dhs959 per night). dinosaursodyssey.com, dubaiparksandresorts.com
is for... Emirates Bio Farm
The real aura farming happens at Emirates Bio Farm. Just over an hour’s drive from Dubai, this Al Ain agri-entertainment centre manages to effortlessly thresh together children’s play zones, into-the-maize-field treks, mini train tours, insights into the operations of a modern organic farm, and the Farmer’s Table restaurant. Over Ramadan, they also hold daily iftars from sundown (adults Dhs180; children between three and 12, Dhs80). Your Instagram-ready checklist should include: kids sitting in the tractor, the famous hammock swing x sunflower field shot, and picking up fresh eggs from the farm store. Dhs50, @emiratesbiofarm
is for... Fossil Rock
If ancient geological structures that are free to visit and furnish the soul with a simultaneous sense of awe and significance are on your spring break bingo card, boy, do we have news for you. Fossil Rock is found in the Mleiha region of Sharjah (about an hour from Dubai) and contains stirring relics from a world 80 million years ago. There are hiking trails nearby for the compass-curious, and guided tours are available from the adjacent Mleiha Archaeological Centre.
is for... Golf
We’ve got two well-above-par family-friendly golf options for you. First up, TopGolf at Emirates Golf Club is a driving range with a huge gamified difference. Here, mini McIlroys can hit, chip, whack and wallop a continuous stream of balls into neon-lit targets across a round of engaging game types. The next course is 3D Blacklight Minigolf on the JBR, basically the hole-y matrimony of crazy golf and 90s rave aesthetic. Putt your way through challenging obstacles and unforgiving tee-offs, all against the luminal hum of UV strip lighting. From Dhs160 per hour, per bay, topgolfdubai.ae. From Dhs90 @3d_blacklight_minigolf_dubai
is for... Indoor climbing
is for... House of Hype
This Dubai Mall-based immersive wonder hub consists of 28 unique worlds, secret portals, dance performances, games, fever dream digital projections, ingenious puzzles and physical challenges. It’s like an architectural rendering of an ADHD brain with all the tabs open. Definitely worthy of the Hype. Dhs149, house-of-hype.com
The traditional school syllabus is focused on getting the youth of today ready for the corporate world of tomorrow. It’s the job of parents to make sure they’re ready for all other eventualities. Like the Zombie Apocalypse. Obviously that’s not going to happen, but just in case you want to be extra-curricularly diligent – climbing is the number one zombie avoidance skill. You can practise (the most important form of) scaling at Adventure Zone by Adventure HQ (Times Square Centre and The Galleria Mall). There are options for caving, fun wall spider monkeying, rope routes, ninja courses and a pinnacle climb. From Dhs79, @adventurehq
is for... Jubail Mangrove Boardwalk
Sandwiched between two of Abu Dhabi’s most famous island idylls, Yas and Saadiyat, Jubail Island is a yawning stretch of verdant calm. Jubail Mangrove Park features a meandering 2.3km boardwalk that quite literally draws you right into nature. And there are plenty of ways to explore the capital’s serene green Everglades, including boardwalk yoga sessions (Dhs105) ranger-led guided tours (from Dhs40), kayaking (from Dhs110), and e-dragon boat excursions (from Dhs110). Dhs10, jubailisland.ae
is for... Khorfakkan
Khorfakkan, found along the picturesque eastern coast of the emirate, offers up a collection of attractions that blend culture and nature, alongside a dusting of artisanal farm-to-mouth grandeur. Like many of the UAE’s outdoorsy hot spots, trail-treading (along with biking and horse galloping) is chief amongst the recommended activities (check out Shees Park, and the Rabi Trail), but if little feet get too tired you could always head to the beach; make a trip to the ominous-sounding Shark Island. Too sharky? Attractive trip pivots are available at Al Rabi Tower, Al Rafisah Dam and the iconic amphitheatre for entertainment under the stars. visitsharjah.com
is for... LEGO
It may be celebrating its 96th birthday this year – but the fandom for the world’s least comfortable underfoot flooring shows no sign of waning. There are a few places in the UAE that offer opportunities to get your mitts on multi-coloured bricks with –addressing the huge block-built elephant in the room – Legoland probably being the most obvious and emphatically on-brand choice (from Dhs230). But if you fancy something a bit more low-key with a focus on DIY builds (and almost unlimited materials), Like Bricks has locations in malls across the UAE (from Dhs120). It’s an open call to Dubai’s skyscrapers-smiths of the future. @legolanddubai, likebricks.com
is for... Majlis story time
Pillow forts, but make them regionally appropriate. The majlis is a Middle Eastern institution, a safe space for sitting, hosting and entertaining, for doing business and holding court. You can build your homage to it, in your own home with nothing more than blankets and sofa cushions. Apologies if that slid into a spat of expat-splaining, but the core message is this: bedtime stories are always better in cosy nooks and illuminated by torchlight, so build your majlis, clamber in, and travel to worlds beyond the ordinary.
is for... ‘Owzat
is for... National Aquarium
Abu Dhabi’s The National Aquarium is the largest aquatic vivarium in the Middle East. It’s home to 46,000 creatures spread across ten experiential zones. It provides live encounters, aims to educate visitors on ecology and performs noble ‘rehabilitation and release’ conservation work for local wildlife. Interior highlights include the region’s longest underwater tunnel experience, tanktop glass-bottom boat tours, a National Geographic exhibit, and sharks, lots of sharks. From Dhs110, @thenationalaq
Located within Megaplex Dubai, next to the Grand Hyatt Dubai, Tiger Strikes is a pay-per-play entertainment destination from Dubai Golf. Inside, a rich tapestry of competitive challenges and twinkling LEDs call for your attention. Earn your stripes and rack up strikes across six lanes of neon-lit bowling; or swing for slips-hit sixes with WIKIT, an impressive augmented reality cricket simulator featuring real-time immersive graphics feedback. Activities priced separately from Dhs30. @tigerstrikes.dxb
is for... Pew pew pew
Adventure has a new name in the UAE, or a new surname at least… Adventure Island at Bahar Plaza on the JBR has phasers set to stun, with its signature Laser Island experience. This is a rootin’, tootin’, pew pew-shootin’ version of laser tag, cast across an intersecting network of nooks and camping-friendly crannies. Groups of up to 24 can lock and load for a battle royale – running and gunning in just-forfun free-for-alls or team-based firefights. Priced from Dhs59. @adventure.island.ae
is for... Questions
If you’re a fan of the TV quiz show format, The Quiz Room located (almost too perfectly), in Al Quoz (Al Quiz?), might be the answer you’ve been looking for. Teams of one-to-18 players (aged eight and up) will be able to go head-to-head, and buzzer-to-buzzer in tests of trivia and musical knowledge. It’s been set up to simulate the quiz show experience, emphasising fun and the spirit of friendly competition. Not the spirit of flipping over the Trivial Pursuit board because “your questions were easier”. You know who you are. Groups of three to six players Dhs120, @quiz_room_ae
is for... Rain Room
Rain Room Sharjah is a permanent art installation that makes the enticing promise of allowing you to walk through the eye of a dimly lit storm, without the use of an umbrella, and yet somehow staying dry. Mostly. We experienced dribble quantities approximating an overstimulated Labrador on our visit. It’s not an all-day activity – but does provide a fun half-hour or so, and the cleverly curated staging is just perfect for snagging artsy profile snaps. Dhs25 per ticket, rainroom.sharjahart.org
is for... Sharjah Planetarium
The stars have aligned in Sharjah to offer a fascinating focus on the local and distant ends of our cosmic manor. Serving up educational exhibits, a collection of meteorites, laser shows, and dome-projected theatrics covering topics such as black holes and the birth of planet Earth – there’s more than enough awe to inspire any knee-high deGrasse-Tysons.
Adults from Dhs50, kids from Dhs25, saasst.ae
is for... The Castle
Growing up in the 90s, getting locked in a room over the school break was a punishment. Today, escape rooms have turned it into a top tier leisure activity. And few places put together their extrascholastic cerebral-gymnastic spaces quite as well as No Way Out. They’ve got locations across Dubai, and whilst – as with most escape rooms – a lot of their themed challenges are geared towards adults, the City Walk branch offers a special room that’s open to kids over 10 years old. The Castle feels loosely based around a sort of Game of Thrones saga, which charges players with tracking down a dragon egg and saving a kingdom from a despotic tyrant. From Dhs160 per person, nowayout.ae
is for... Umm Al Emarat Park
Manicured to perfection and full of thoroughly interesting attractions, Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi is a wonderful space to roam, including a poignant memorial to the words of Sheikh Zayed, an animal barn with camels, goats, donkeys, a botanical garden, weekend market, falcon show and a seasonal outdoor cinema. Dhs10, ummalemaratepark.ae
is for... Waterpark
is for... VR Park
There are some incredibly well-curated VR experiences in Abu Dhabi (our top pick is Pixoul) and Dubai, but if you’ve got a chronically online Fortnite fan in your family unit, or a relentless Roblox user, we have the perfect recommendation for you. Battleworld in Al Quoz lets gamers play out their FPS bouts in real-world three-dimensional space. So whilst it might still be screen-based, it’s social and it gets the litt’uns active. The VR Arena (available from Dhs99 per person) offers a virtual, team-centric, pain-free alternative to paintball. Winner winner, chicken dinner. battleworld.ae
We really are spoiled for waterpark choice in the UAE. Yas Waterworld, Aquaventure, Wild Wadi, Jungle Bay and the new Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark are well worth the admission prices and each have their own unique ways of finesse flooding your nasal cavities, but don’t ever sleep on the OG. Umm Al Quwain’s Dreamland Aqua Park (adults from Dhs99, kids from Dhs49) comes touting an H2Overindulgence of hydraulic frolics and retro rides. You can even camp next to the park. What it might lack in polish compared to its more modern regional counterparts, it makes up for in good old-fashioned, nod-and-go-down-the-slide, authentic adrenaline and lazy river fun. dreamlanduae.com
is for... XPark Jr
It’s our firm belief that young children should be encouraged to dabble in the occasional spot of outdoor ‘feral time’. Supervised feral time of course, which is largely (in the best possible way) the ethos behind XPark Jr – a place where kids truly can be kids. This little sister to the neighbouring adrenaline-spiking XPark, the Jr family member is all about muddy knees, leafy trees, dammed streams, wood forts, animal encounters and living free. From Dhs80, xdubai.com
is for... Yalla Bowling
If bowling is right up your alley, get the fun times rolling at one of the two, audaciously wallet-friendly Yalla funtropolises. In the Mirdif City Centre location, players can strike it lucky in a game of traditional 10-pin bowling for just Dhs40 per frame. If you don’t fancy staying in your lane, it’s worth noting that both sites are attached to the enduringly popular arcade pull of Magic Planet. magicplanetmena.com
is for... Zabeel Park picnic
If you go down to Zabeel Park today, you should probably bring supplies. If you go down to the park today you should be aware of its size (because at the equivalent area of 45 football fields, it’s massive). And every sport that ever there was, from jogging to mini-golf, cricket to lacrosse, is catered therein because this is the way residents like to enjoy their picnics. Ahem. You’ll also find barbecue facilities, live music, boat rides, food kiosks, and seasonal flea markets. Dhs5, visitdubai.com
12 Dubai dining trends to look out for in 2026
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
If you live in Dubai for any length of time, you learn to expect the unexpected. It’s a city that frequently finds itself at the serrated edge of exciting new fashions, and nowhere is it more visible than with dining trends.
These are just a few of the latest fads, fixtures, themes and memes we’re predicting will proliferate in 2026.
A lot at steak
The smash burger will never die. It’s a fashionproof archetype – like Ford Mustangs, 501 jeans, and the music of Blink 182. But its omnipresence in Dubai’s gourmet burger joints has been at the expense of its thicker, juicer aunt patty. They’re big, they’re bold, they’re brick-thicc boys and by golly are steakhouse burgers sooooo back this season.
Hands down favourite
Pioneered in the city by Alserkal Avenue’s house of edible artistry, Kokoru: handroll sushi, or ‘temaki’ is on something of a, ahem, roll at the moment. This delicately prepared Japanese statement dish requires the utensil-free manipulation of rice and nori alongside the usual sushi suspects. It’s an Osakan taco, a Sapporo sub – and it’s fast becoming Dubai’s favourite new modality of enhanced street food. You can also find it at the masterful new Tezukuri (from chef Neha and Panchali Mahendra); at the Dubai outpost of London’s Ram&Roll; and the well-worth-a-visit Reif Othman-led Yubi. We predict a bonne continuation of this theme and why not? Let the good times roll.
Home by 11
Nothing good happens after 10. That is the millennial mantra that’s at the heart of this soirée curtailing trend. The movement calls for earlier seating times, music without autotune vocals and a change of comfortable shoes for the walk to the cab rank. It’s not a new demand, but it is one that’s received a lot of attention recently thanks to events like Please Leave By 10. This is a nightclub experience that invites revellers to go hard on the dancefloor. Up to a point. And that point is 10pm. Afterwards the lights come on to exaggerated yawns, tapped watch dials and early exits. That means you can get home, tucked up in bed and fully rested for a 7am run along Kite Beach the next day.
The Neapolitan Renaissance
Time to call it a day
Older millennials may be calling time at 10pm, but the international assembly of Gen Z is going even further. They’ve sanctioned a preference for starting their raves at 10am. And whilst all signs point to café clubbing culture likely hitting its foamy zenith in 2025 (with events like those hosted by @fredscoffeeparty), nothing stops the late corporate adopter iteration train. It’s for that reason we’re going on record with a big call: 2026 will see even more matcha keggers, bakery blowouts, mocktail morning mash-ups, and sandwich shop shindigs. The coffee rave bus moves until the wheels fall off.
If there was a zodiac of pizzas, 2024 and 2025 would have absolutely been the years of the New York slice (or the more inclusive, American style pizza). Allow us to present to the jury: Za Za Slice and Pull Me Pizza. In addition to that, we had the continued meteoric rise of Pitfire Pizza (not a traditional New York slice, but we’d argue certainly more ‘stars and stripes’ than *gestures intensely with tapered fist*). And Abu Dhabi import, Antonia, landed in Dubai and provided a strong use case for the Roman-style rectangle, pizza al taglio. But it feels like 2026 could the (re)dawning of the age of Neapolitan bases. Charred air-pocket-filled, age-fermented dough, quick-fired in an insanely hot oven, just like nonna used to make. Real ones know it never went away (we’re looking at you Blu Pizzeria, Luigia and L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele), but with recent additions like Falcone, Pizza Guys, and Naughty Pizza – it really feels like a chant of Forza Napoli. Maybe it will happen, maybe it won’t but you can’t blame us for at least attempting to manifest the Italian way.
Shawarma drama
Elevated, swanky shawarma will be the next big thing, you mark our words. And when it does, remember that it all began with Mitzumami. We understand – gilding refined gold, painting the lily, charging Dhs30+ for what is traditionally a Dhs8 sandwich – but anyone that sampled their wood-fired lamb in pita pockets will understand. It was ahead of its time, but it now appears that the slowly rotating meat baton has been passed. The kitchen at Jun’s – headed by the always creative, never less than brilliant, chef Kelvin Cheung – is now serving his own interpretation of the regional classic. Its components include slow cooked lamb neck, charred pineapple salsa macha xo, lemon labneh and Palestinian sumac. We can borderline guarantee this concept will be copied, pasted, and imitated (but never replicated) ad absurdum before the end of the year.
The rise and rise of Filipino cuisine
It’s not easy to stand tall in the flavour field of East Asian cuisine. You have the culinary Leviathans of Japan, China, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia to compete with, all flexing their wellestablished and globally beloved food forms. But with a passionate community of ambassadors here in the UAE, and a fully-stocked larder of diverse island delicacies, the Philippines was always destined to break through the canopy and find its rightful place in the sun. And it’s impossible to talk about this manifested ascendency here without acknowledging the trail, blazed brightly, by chef JP and his eatery Kooya (new location in Market Island Food Hall, Dubai Festival City Mall). It wasn’t the first Filipino restaurant in Dubai, but it’s one that challenged assumptions, celebrated traditions, and embraced innovation. This trend entry also comes fresh off the back of the debut Michelin Guide for Manila and Environs & Cebu (announced in October 2025), and an increasing worldwide interest in the archipelago’s unique blends of sweet, sour, salt, fat and spice. Balut might not catch on immediately but for the broader menu offerings, all we’re saying is... watch this space.
Table for GLP-1
Protein maxxing
From the generational slang that brought you ‘looks maxxing’ and ‘aura maxxing’ –protein maxxing is the culinary x fitness collaboration of the year so far. Piloted by creatine scene gym bros and the ‘big cottage cheese’ cabal, this trend is all about making the most of the key muscle amping macro. And it’s not just for home-cooked meals, we’re seeing an increasing number of menus that are doubling down on meat and fish infusions, offering explicit protein content upgrades and meal plans to get you no-shirt ready for your next Hyrox event.
Lite bites. Just what the doctor ordered. Especially if you’re on one of the increasingly prevalent GLP-1 receptor inhibitor medications. These, frequently referred to as ‘skinny jabs’, work by simulating the sensation of fullness, essentially cutting cravings and appeasing appetites, and have been shown to be highly effective in doing so. To, ahem, cater for the popularity of these medications some restaurants have been (ironically) indulging in some mid-menu spread. Bulking out their ‘just nibbles’ and ‘bar bites’ offerings for the customers that just “aren’t feeling that hungry” for some reason. It’s a tapas revolution, by another name.
African food finally getting the representation it deserves
We acknowledge that using ‘African’ as a grouping taxonomy for food is problematic. It’s the same as saying ‘European cuisine’ – it strangles nuance and obscures the merit of individual countries, cities and regions. We’re able to invoke it here because, unfortunately, culinary underrepresentation seems to be an African continent-wide theme in much of the world. There are some exceptions of course, Egyptian and Ethiopian restaurants have a reasonable foothold here for example; Kiza is a Pan African DIFC institution and has been around for over a decade; and brands like Tashas Group, The Meat Co, Nando’s, Tribes and Hyperama are proudly flying the flag for South Africa. That still leaves a lot of space for tongue-top tales from the hemispherestraddling, 50+ countries of the mother continent. The good news is that signs seem to point to a gathering groundswell, and in a way that shows the versatility of dining experiences from across Africa. We’re seeing new examples of high-end representation in places such as Marsa Al Arab’s The Cullinan, and the modern masterpiece that is Savryn. And for something not new, but highly recommended for incredible food in an intimate setting, try The ChopBelleFull Express (@thecbfexpress) supper club. Outstanding cuisine, creatively conceived and expertly delivered. More of this in 2026 please.
Old square, new square
Not technically a dining trend, but if we were to pick a cocktail to captain the 2026 line-up, it would be the recently resurgent, highly potent, New Orleanian special – Vieux Carré. This bougie blended beverage comes straight from the land of jazz and bayous, is composed of whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and two types of bitters. It’s like a mixological marriage between a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned – and it’s a sipper not a slurper. It’s giving Benoit Blanc, it’s giving ceiling fans and peanut bowls, syncopated piano medleys and creole stews on the stove. It’s giving sophisticated sipping for 2026.
New ‘Dubai’ Chocolates
Stop it. We may not be able to see you, but we can still feel those eye rolls. We know, like us, you’re taking nothing away from the incredible achievements of Fix in putting Dubai front and centre on the confectionary GPS, but thanks to non-domestic forces... It’s getting out of hand now. Every chocolate manufacturer from here to the Wonka’s fictional factory has got their own version of a ‘Dubai chocolate’ and if you think it’s a trend that’s going to end soon, you haven’t been paying attention. Kunafa, we’re afraid, is in for a rough ride of ‘reimagining’ and ‘redefining’ with as many flavours and collaborative brand crossovers as its deliciously flaked form can take.
EAT | DRINK | SHOP
GLORIA OSTERIA
GLORIA OSTERIA
The larger-than-life restaurant from Milan makes a suitably energetic splash in DIFC
WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN
The spot
Much-anticipated Gloria – the Dubai debut from restaurant heavyweights Big Mamma Group – has found a home in The Ritz-Carlton DIFC. Known and loved for their over-the-top décor, charming Italian hospitality, and menu of crowd-pleasing sharing plates, they’re looking to replicate the smash-hit success they’ve found in Europe in one of Dubai’s most competitive dining destinations.
You’re greeted by a triple height reception, where walls laden with rainbowhued bottles that offer instant wow-factor. Once you enter the restaurant, the interiors are just as striking: kaleidoscopic hues, clashing prints, kitsch interiors – it’s bold and busy in all the right ways. Outside, an expansive terrace is where we choose to sit on a sunny weekend afternoon. The whimsical, Wonderland-esque space, with its floral prints and pops of red, wouldn’t look out of place in a Lewis Carroll novel.
The food
The menu is well thought out and accessible, and very well priced for this part of town. A caprese carpaccio is a light and refreshing way to begin, simply seasoned, chunky slices of juicy tomato and mozzarella drizzled with a homemade basil pesto.
We eye up generous bowls of truffle pasta being served to tables around us in parmesan wheels, before ultimately deciding to opt for the spaghetti chitarra all’astice, where meaty chunks of lobster are tossed in a rich but well-balanced datterini tomato sauce and a light lobster bisque alongside perfectly al dente pasta. Our second main course, a wagyu striploin, is similarly flavourful – if a little over-cooked from our medium-rare order, seasoned with rock salt and served with a sticky jus de viande and your choice of side – our crispy French Fries provide a classic combo.
With eyes bigger than our bellies, we order the torta al Limone, and when we see the towering slice – complete with 12cm meringue – heading our way, we know we made the right call. The crunchy base, zesty lemon and creamy meringue hit the sweet spot.
The service
Polite and knowledgeable, although not quite as friendly and fun as those familiar with its European locations might expect.
What’s on the bill
Starters range from Dhs70 to Dhs100, while mains are affordably priced, largely between Dhs85 and Dhs220. The mustorder torta al Limone is Dhs58 – and is definitely designed for sharing.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Big, bold and beautiful – Gloria makes an impact with its Instagrammable décor and photo-friendly menu to match. Terrace tables are the ones to book for alfresco dining with wow-factor.
Location: The Ritz-Carlton DIFC Times: Daily 12pm to 2am Contact: (0)4 577 8546. @gloriaosteria.dxb
AMARU DUBAI
It’s dinner and drinks with a side of drama, a pinch of AI, and a whole lot of flavour
WORDS: MADIE MURPHY
The spot
The first thing you notice? The bar. Sitting proudly at the centre of the space, it’s the heartbeat of the restaurant and the perfect place to kick off the evening. Grab a drink from the carefully created cocktail menu, soak it all in and let the night unfold from there.
The dining room wraps around it in warm clay tones and textured stone, inspired by ancient Latin American temples. There’s an elevated upper level if you like a bit of people-watching, and a chef’s table for those who want a more intimate, yet immersive experience.
The food
The menu takes you on a trip across Latin America, pulling inspiration from Peru and Brazil to the Andes and Guatemala, bringing a mix of pan-Latin flavours that feel both diverse and deeply rooted in tradition. There is a modern blending of street food favourites with refined technique. It’s bold, smoky and packed with flavour.
We tried a mix of everything and each dish was as tasty as the nex; make sure you try the beef empanadas and corn ribs! For dessert, the churros are a delicious sweet treat. All the details have obviously been carefully chosen, right down to the cutlery.
The drinks are just as carefully crafted. Signature cocktails lean into tropical ingredients and unexpected twists.
The best bit
As dinner winds down, Amaru flips the script. What starts as a warm, atmospheric restaurant gradually transforms into a late-night bar in the slickest way, with AI-led projections washing over the walls and columns like a live art show. Add in roaming performers and live entertainment that build the energy course by course, and suddenly you’re not just out for dinner, you’re in the middle of the party.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Amaru is the kind of place you book when you want the night to feel like an occasion. Great for date nights, birthdays, or whenever you’re in the mood for big flavours and even bigger vibes.
Location: Souk Madinat Jumeirah Times: 6pm to 3am daily
Contact: @amaru.dubai
SON OF A FISH
An easy, breezy, good-time Greek restaurant in Dubai Harbour
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
The spot
Besides those wealthy enough to live in those gleaming Emaar apartments, or the cruise-liner crowd docking nearby, there’s been little reason to trek out to Dubai Harbour. For a while, Bar du Port carried the area’s social ambitions almost singlehandedly. Now it has company.
Late last year, AlphaMind added another notch to its belt with Son of a Fish, a Greek restaurant that understands modern dining is as much about mood as mezze. The space channels the strippedback glamour of the Aegean with pale tones, breezy lines, floor-to-ceiling windows and a terrace that’s been custom-built for long lunches.
As the sun dips, the soundtrack shifts. Mediterranean-inflected electronica hums into life, DJs take over, and what began as a polite lunch suddenly finds its rhythm. It’s very Athens-by-way-of-Dubai.
The food
The menu is a greatest-hits tour of Greece, lightly remixed for an international crowd. It’s built for sharing, which is both philosophically Greek and practically
sensible when everything looks tempting. There’s a fresh fish display that nods to seaside tavernas, while the rest of the menu roams from land to sea with ease.
Spanakopita arrives crisp and generously filled. A prawn tartare is served with whipped avo, basil oil and lime zest. The sea bass fillet leans confident rather than flashy, while char-grilled Aussie tenderloin is given the Dubai treatment with a drizzle of truffle sauce.
This is food that doesn’t overthink itself. It trusts good produce, familiar flavours, and the fact that people are happier when plates are passed and glasses refilled.
The service
Friendly, warm, and clearly keen though big tables can cause a mild wobble. Drinks occasionally lag behind the pace of the party, suggesting a team still finding its flow. That said, goodwill goes a long way, and the energy is positive rather than chaotic.
A place particularly strong for group outings. Expect to be dancing with your neighbour tables, even on a “relaxed” Sunday.
Location: Dubai Harbour Pier Club, Dubai Harbour Times: Daily from 12am until 2am Contact: (0)4 832 6177; sonofafishdubai.com
CQ FRENCH BRASSERIE
The second serving of this beloved brasserie hits all the right notes
WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN
The spot
When the founders of Rosy Hospitality exited Couqley in JLT 2025, they created a new homegrown brasserie, CQ. And now CQ is bringing quintessentially cosy Parisian vibes to a second location, Grand Millennium Barsha Heights. It’s still got the same inviting, laidback, French brasserie feel of the original CQ in JLT, but with a few more glamourous touches: an open kitchen, gold-tinged bar and chic artworks make everything feel more elevated. Perhaps the most welcome new addition at CQ Barsha Heights is the terrace, a sprawling space where bistro tables are shaded by ruby red awnings, and a bar lined with stools serves as a lovely spot to make the most of the after-work happy hour. There are tables for big groups, cosy corners for date night, and even a section that converts into a private dining room that would be just as suitable for a board meeting as it would be for a birthday.
The food
we delight in heaping with salty butter. Perfectly crunchy on the outside with a spongy centre, it’s a challenge not to fill up before starters arrive.
The service
Sincere and friendly, CQ’s handpicked team really value true hospitality, and the passion they have for service shines through.
All the classics from the original are found on the menu here, as well as the roster of affordable daily deals that cover you from business lunch to ladies’ night. A special mention should be given to the bread, which arrives as still-warm baguettes that
We order the cult classic escargot and are encouraged to try the new miso butter flavour. We’re glad we do, the slightly sweet yuzu note is subtle but impactful, adding a lovely buttery coating. Sticking with the signatures, the CQ steak frites arrive soon after starters have been cleared. It’s a generous plate of perfectly cooked medium-rare beef served with their delicious CQ sauce, a portion of crispy golden fries, and a side salad, drizzled with a French dressing. It’s faultless.
What’s on the bill
Starters are typically between Dhs75 and Dhs100, while mains sit between Dhs110 and Dhs150, although a menu of premium cuts is worth exploring for meat lovers –with steaks priced between Dhs189 and Dhs499. Their signature steak frites, priced at Dhs149, remains one of the best value dishes in town.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Grown-up without losing its charm, this is a welcome evolution of CQ French Brasserie, without compromising on the bits we know and love.
Location: Grand Millennium, Barsha Heights Times: Daily 12pm to 1am Contact: Tel: (0)55 491 0097. @cqbrasserie
Ziad and Rowan Kamel - Founders of CQ French Brasserie
IN GOOD TASTE
Whether it’s 4 courses or 12, Dubai loves a tasting menu. Here are some of the best worth your time
City Social
Chef’s Table at City Social Dubai offers an exclusive dining experience with a tasting menu designed to highlight the finest seasonal ingredients and inventive culinary techniques. Dishes range from delicate fish and chips with whipped cod’s roe and marmite custard tart with oscietra caviar, to expertly prepared wagyu tenderloin and Australian lamb rack. Guests enjoy front-row views of the kitchen, direct interaction with the chefs, and optional wine pairings to elevate the experience. Perfect for special occasions or a memorable night out, this intimate experience combines exceptional food with a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere.
City Social Dubai, Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dhs600 per person. @citysocialdubai
WORDS: MADIE MURPHY
OSSIANO
Ossiano is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a 10-course tasting menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the sea. Each dish is carefully prepared to highlight natural flavours and sustainable produce. The restaurant is set next to a large aquarium, allowing diners to watch fish, sharks and other sea creatures swim past while enjoying their meal.
Ossiano, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dhs1,250 per person, @ossianodubai
TRÈSIND STUDIO
Trèsind Studio brings a contemporary twist to Indian cuisine in a small and private setting on The Palm. Led by chef Himanshu Saini since 2022, it has just 20 seats, making each visit a personal and attentive experience. The dining space is designed so that all guests can watch the chefs in action. Every dish is carefully crafted with precision, producing striking presentations and bold flavours.
Trèsind Studio is also the first Indian restaurant in the world to be awarded three Michelin stars, making its tasting menu a must-try in Dubai.
Trèsind Studio, St Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, Dhs1,350 per person, @tresindstudio
SAVRYN
The experience is shaped by Chef Shehab Medhat and you feel 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. The 10-course tasting menu is designed for sharing, foodie conversations, 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, moving from slowcooked Golden Ribs inspired by Zanzibar spice routes to Te Oyoo Ten, where lamb, corn polenta, plantain and Ghanaian shito come together perfectly. Desserts are just as creative, especially the tomato finale that looks one way and tastes entirely another. Wasl Vita Mall, Jumeirah 1, Dhs465 per person, @savryn.diningroom
FZN
FZN is the Dubai branch of the award-winning Frantzén from Stockholm. The restaurant serves a nine-course tasting menu where Nordic cooking meets Japanese flavours. The space is boutique with only 27 seats, 13 of which are around the open kitchen, so you can watch the chefs at work and enjoy a very personal dining experience. The menu includes dishes such as duck with yuzu and foie gras and turbot with cured wagyu. Guests can select from different drink pairings or explore the wine cellar themselves.
FZN by Björn Frantzén, Atlantis The Palm, from Dhs2,000 per person, @restaurantfzn
KIGO
KIGO at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai DIFC is an intimate Japanese dining destination that opened last year, offering a seasonal Kaiseki menu crafted by Head Chef Akinori Tanigawa. The Spring Kaiseki Menu, available from February 5, showcases the first flavours of the season through exceptional ingredients, including seasonal mountain vegetables, Ōmi beef and the rare Mitsuoka Kiwami strawberry. Each course, from firefly squid with wild shoots and young wakame to Saikyo miso, is designed to highlight precision, balance and seasonal authenticity. The design-led space enhances the experience, inviting diners to savour the subtlety and elegance of Japanese cuisine.
KIGO, Four Seasons Hotel Dubai DIFC, Dhs2,500 per person (12-course) / Dhs2,000 per person (8-course). @kigodubai
LOONA
Loona brings modern Italian flair to Downtown Dubai. Their 12-course tasting menu, Loona Russa, begins with a selection of refreshing fruit drinks and blends Italian tradition with Russian ingredients. It features wagyu, king crab, scallops with black caviar, and chorizo caviar pizza. Some courses arrive with fire or ice smoke and the dessert is made with the house ‘Dubai chocolate’, making it not just a meal but a full dining experience. Loona, Vida Residence Downtown, Downtown Dubai, from Dhs485 per person, loona.ae
DELANO DUBAI
Teppanyaki: The Delano Way invites diners to settle in for a progressive set menu crafted live by a dedicated teppanyaki chef. Each course is prepared before your eyes, turning dinner into a sensory showcase of precision, technique and flavour. The refined Japanese menu begins with lighter openers such as salted grilled edamame, Akami Maguro sashimi with yuzu ponzu and chawanmushi with king crab, before moving into richer highlights including foie gras with miso mirin and A5 Wagyu served with fresh wasabi and garlic fried rice. Desserts like Ichigo Shiso with soya foam and calamansi sorbet round off the experience. The evening concludes with a post-dinner cocktail at Rose Bar, adding a final touch of understated elegance to the journey. Vegetarian options are available upon request. Delano Dubai, Bluewaters, Wed to Sun 7pm and 9pm, Dhs790 per person. @delanodubai
DUBAI, THE ORIGINALS
Pull up a plastic chair, share a table with strangers, and eat like Dubai used to (and still should)
WORDS:
LAURA COUGHLIN
Dubai likes to move fast, but these restaurants never bothered keeping up, and thank goodness for that. Long before tasting menus, valet queues and soft openings, these places were quietly feeding the city with confidence. Decades on, they’re still here, buoyed by loyal regulars, dependable dishes and the comforting knowledge that some things simply don’t need updating.
Fibber Magees (1996)
Everybody loves Fibbers: long-time residents, Irish expats, students. Everybody. Not so much a cafe as it is a legendary local hangout, Fibbers has been around since the summer of 1996 and is the oldest Irish pub in the UAE. It checks all the Irish-pub boxes – hearty Irish eats, non-halal platters, proper pours of Guinness and a lot of Irish music.
Fibber Magees, Saeed Tower 1, off Sheikh Zayed Road, daily 8am to 3am. Tel: (0)4 332 2400. @fibbermageesdxb
Barasti Beach (1995)
Long before West Beach on the Palm (or even the existence of Palm Jumeirah itself) there was Barasti Beach. Opening in the late 1990s as the humble beach club of Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort, it has steadily evolved over the years. There have been renovations, added levels and the merciful removal of that old dodgy pool (falling into it on a night out was practically a rite of passage). Today, it’s had a glow-up with a bohemian edge, yet it still retains its legendary status. From live match screenings and mega beach parties to hangover cures and at least a dozen What’s On blowouts, we’ll always hold a torch for this OG beach club.
Barasti Beach, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, daily 10am to 2am. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @barastibeach
Barasti Beach (1995)
Fibber Magees (1996)
Bu Qtair (1980s)
Once a scrappy shack by the sea, Bu Qtair is now a full-blown pilgrimage site for seafood lovers. Just next to Umm Suqeim Fishing Harbour, this family-run spot serves local fish cooked Keralan-style (pomfret, shari, prawns) plus fish curry and flaky parathas. Pick your fish and they do the rest. It’s basic but brilliant and blissfully unpolished. Bu Qtair, Fishing Harbour 2, Umm Sequim, Mon to Fri 7am to 6pm, Sat and Sun 8am to 6pm (Ramadan timings vary). Tel: (0)55 705 2130. @buqtair
Ravi Restaurant (1978)
Few Dubai institutions inspire the devotion Ravi does. For more than 40 years, it’s been dishing up robust Pakistani and Indian classics such as fiery curries, smoky kebabs and biryanis that never disappoint. There’s no décor to speak of, just plastic chairs, clattering plates and a crowd that spans construction workers to CEOs. That’s the magic. Ravi’s is gloriously democratic, proudly no-frills, and famously affordable. Come hungry, leave happy, and don’t overthink the order.
Ravi Restaurant, Satwa, daily 5am to 2am (Ramadan timings may vary).
Tel: (0)4 331 5353.
@ravirestaurantsuae
Al Ijaza Cafeteria (1990)
Arabian Tea House (1997)
Tucked inside Al Fahidi’s historical neighbourhood, Arabian Tea House feels like a secret garden time forgot. Founded by Ali Al Rais in a restored pearl trader’s home, it trades city noise for birdsong, and white rattan chairs. The menu is vast with Emirati classics like balaleet, khabisah and reqaq bread that sits alongside an encyclopedia of teas, from herbal infusions to karak. Today there are multiple branches, but the original remains one of Dubai’s most charming escapes. Arabian Tea House, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, daily 7am to 11pm. Tel: (0)56 9989030. @arabianteahouse
Al Ijaza is peak Dubai nostalgia. Famous for its fruit juices and flatbread shawarmas, this Jumeira classic is best experienced from your car: pull up, honk, order, repeat. The star is the Hassan Mathar, a pressed flatbread shawarma slathered in secret sauce, and just Dhs9. Pair it with a fresh juice; the Abud, a sweet melon blend, is the cult favourite. Opened in the 90s, Al Ijaza remains gloriously unchanged. Eat here and you’ve earned your Dubai stripes.
Al Ijaza Cafeteria, Beach Road, Jumeira, Mon to Fri 10am to 2am, Sat and Sun 11am to 2am (Ramadan timings may vary). Tel: (0)4 336 5550. @alijazacafe
Al Ustad Special Kabab (1978)
Al Ustad is less restaurant, more rite of passage. The Al Ansari family has been quietly perfecting Persian cooking here for over four decades, turning out legendary kebabs with monk-like focus. Mutton, chicken and tenderloin are marinated in yoghurt; others are slow-cooked with dill, mint and tarragon, arriving alongside saffron rice studded with roasted nuts. The walls are a glorious time capsule of celebrity snapshots and family memories. Portions are heroic, prices delightfully unfussy. Squeeze onto a communal table, roll up your sleeves, and surrender to the joy of simple things done exceptionally well. Al Ustad Special Kabab, Bur Dubai, daily 11am to 1am (Ramadan timings vary). Tel: (0)4 397 1944. @ostadi_1978
Al Ustad Special Kabab (1978)
CANDLE HOLDER
Lorin small taper holder, Crate and Barrel, Dhs155, crateandbarrel.ae
Concrete meets luxe in these sculptural taper holders. Rising from slim bases, Lorin curves airy circles and ovals that lift your candles off the table. Subtle textures give them an artisan feel, making them a statement alone or grouped for a playful display.
EID, WELL GIFTED
Gifts with heart that last long after Eid
WORDS: LANA DU
Eid Al-Fitr is rooted in tradition and part of that is visiting loved ones in their homes, with gift-giving long seen as a way to show thoughtfulness and appreciation during these visits. From artisanal chocolates to hand-
GOLD NECKLACE
Celestial moon and star necklace, CZ by Kenneth Jay Lane, Dhs725, bloomingdales.ae
A yellow gold-plated brass necklace featuring a pavé crescent moon set with 1.5 carat equivalent cubic zirconia and a delicate dangling star. Light-catching and playful, it works layered or worn solo, bringing a subtle cosmic edge to day or evening looks.
STUD EARRINGS
Una stud earrings, Swarovski, Dhs485, swarovski.ae
Gold-tone plated studs set with a brilliant central Swarovski crystal, framed by a halo of smaller round-cut stones. Light-catching and refined, they add an effortless sparkle to both everyday outfits and evening looks.
crafted homeware and stylish keepsakes, the best gifts are personal, meaningful, and enjoyed long after Eid ends. Here’s our edit.
ESSENTIAL OIL BURNER
Brass oil burner, Aesop, Dhs810, aesop.ae
A refined, sculptural alternative to traditional burners, designed by Studio Henry Wilson for Aesop. Crafted from solid brass, this piece combines substance and beauty for a timeless, elegant addition to any space. this and
DECORATIVE VASE
Hinge bronze cast aluminum vase, CB2, Dhs700, cb2.ae
A cast aluminium vase with a warm bronze finish and distinctive hinge detailing at each corner. The structured square silhouette gives it a strong, modern presence –striking styled solo or paired with fresh blooms.
LEATHER COASTERS
Stella coasters – set of 6, Madame Malachite, Dhs925, ounass.ae
A set of six leather coasters featuring a concentric motif that adds colour and structure to any table. Stylish and practical, they protect surfaces while bringing a decorative touch – a chic Eid gift for anyone who loves style and function.
INCENSE HOLDER
CANDLE GIFT SET
Monochrome core collection
scented candle gift set of 12, Crate and Barrel, Dhs650, crateandbarrel.me
GOLD RING
Leaftrail incense holder, La DoubleJ, Dhs1,100, thatconceptstore.com
An elongated incense holder featuring the graceful Leaftrail motif in a calming blue palette. Sculptural and serene, it creates a refined focal point in any mindful space while adding a sense of ritual to everyday moments.
Delicate filigree meets sparkling champagne diamonds in this stunning Azza Fahmy piece. Crafted in 18K gold and sterling silver, it works beautifully for special occasions or adding a touch of elegance to everyday looks – a statement ring that stands out.
A set of 12 scented votive candles presented in a sleek, gift-ready box. Each monochrome metal tin is filled with a coordinating wax shade, with fragrances ranging from fresh citrus notes to deeper, earthier blends. A striking addition to any home and a refined pick for candle lovers. gold
INDOOR PLANT
Bird of paradise plant, 80cm tall, Dhs299 (including pot), plntd.ae
An elegant 80cm Bird of Paradise plant, perfect for brightening any room. Lowmaintenance and light-loving, it also helps purify the air while adding a touch of greenery and style to interiors.
COFFEE CUP SET
Fete Vos Jeux 4-piece coffee cups set, Vista Alegre, Dhs999, galerieslafayette.ae
A porcelain set of four coffee cups with an architecture-inspired design, combining fun and elegance for any coffee occasion.
DESSERT PLATE SET
Icon porcelain dessert plates – set of 4, Electric Coast, Dhs305, innacarton.com
A set of four fine China dessert plates featuring hand-illustrated icons inspired by sunshine and summer, bringing a cheerful, graphic touch to any table.
A desert-inspired stoneware teapot featuring cacti, cowboy boots, blazing suns, and the empowering message
“You can do anything.” Finished with a speckled glaze and a playful striped lid, it’s a cheerful, modern addition to any
THROW BLANKET
Chenille throw with fringed edges, Zara Home, Dhs159, zarahome.com
A soft chenille throw with delicate fringed edges, made from RCS-certified recycled polyester. Cozy, stylish, and sustainably made – an easy way to add warmth and style to someone’s home this Eid.
A bold fragrance wrapped in a gold serpent bracelet. Opening with pink pepper, bergamot and blackcurrant, it unfolds into a heart of jasmine, lavender, saffron and rose, settling into a warm base of Madagascar vanilla, tonka bean and patchouli. A luxurious, statement-making gift for anyone who loves daring, elegant scents.
ARABIC COFFEE SET
Deluxury deco Arabic coffee cup holder with 6 cups, Crate and Barrel, Dhs599, crateandbarrel.me
A stylish coffee set crafted from corrosion-resistant 18/10 stainless steel, complete with six anti-fall glass cups featuring gold rims and a serving tray. Perfect for bringing a touch of elegance to coffee time, and a thoughtful Eid
gift for anyone who enjoys hosting in style.
TEA INFUSER
Royal white tea infuser, Pip Studio, Dhs95, bloomingdales.ae
Crafted from delicate porcelain, this elegant tea infuser features fine blue painted accents and subtle gold detailing from Pip Studio’s Royal White collection. Timeless yet fresh, it brings a refined edge to any tea ritual and makes a thoughtful pick for hosts who appreciate standout tableware.
Designed by Lluis Clotet, this wrinkled stainless steel serving piece draws on industrial and architectural influences. With four sections for nuts, dry fruits, crackers or sweets, it works just as well at the breakfast table as it does styled by the entrance for small essentials.
SPA EXPERIENCE
Amara signature 60-minute massage, Amara Spa at Park Hyatt Dubai, Dhs700, dubaicreekresort.com
If your loved one is craving a little me-time, this massage treatment is the perfect treat. Warmed signature aroma oils – a soothing mix of frankincense, amber and sandalwood – ease tension while the deep, rhythmic strokes leave the body and mind completely relaxed.
ART | THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC
DESERT EUPHORIA
Keinemusik swaps the shoreline for the sands in an immersive
open-air showcase
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
Did you know the UAE is 80% desert? This March, the sands are about to come alive like never before as Pacha ICONS presents Keinemusik for a first-ever desert performance in the UAE.
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, the Berlin-based house collective Keinemusik will step away from their usual Playa Pacha stage at FIVE LUXE JBR. Instead, they’ll take over the vast Bab Al Shams
Arena, one of the region’s most striking open-air venues. Pacha ICONS brings the legendary music experience of Ibiza to audiences around the world, from Dubai’s Playa Pacha to Destino Five Ibiza. Known for fusing world-class DJs with highspec production and immersive audio-visual storytelling, the series’ desert takeover promises to push boundaries and redefine nightlife in the Middle East.
Who’s headlining in Dubai?
The full Keinemusik trio – &ME, Rampa, and Adam Port – will headline, following Rampa and Adam Port’s standout Pacha ICONS debut in April 2024.
Keinemusik are the Berlin-born collective redefining electronic music with a blend of house, techno, and irresistible groove. More than a label, they’re a movement – known for hypnotic sets that turn any night into an unforgettable journey. Their sleek, soulful, unmistakably Berlin sound has produced global anthems, including the viral MOVE by Adam Port, Stryv, and Malachiii, consistently drawing full-capacity crowds worldwide. Their Dubai desert debut will be no exception.
The Bab Al Shams Arena will transform into a spectacle of expansive stages, immersive lighting, and striking visuals – all designed to elevate the trio’s emotionally charged sound. Expect a high-octane, open-air experience unlike anything else in the region.
Make sure to rest up, because the party kicks off at 8pm and doesn’t stop until 4am.
TICKET DETAILS
■ Early entry before 10pm: Dhs375 per person.
■ Dancefloor access (21 and above) Dhs450 per person.
■ Purchase your tickets on ticketmaster.ae
Note: Guests entering after 10pm will be asked to pay for the price difference between their pre-purchased ticket and the door rate. pachaicons.com
OTHER MUSIC FESTIVALS IN THE UAE TO BOOK IN 2026
OFFLIMIT Music Festival
When: April 4.
Tickets: Prices from Dhs495.
OFFLIMIT is one of the UAE’s largest music festivals and it returns to Etihad Park on Yas Island in April. This bold, genre-blending music festival features pop, rock, electronic, alternative and more styles, all sharing the same stage. Global superstar Shakira tops the bill, with Jonas Brothers, NE-YO, Biffy Clyro, KALEO and rising British star Myles Smith also performing. offlimits.com
Hyperound K-Fest
When: April 18.
Tickets: From Dhs200. K-Pop fans, get ready for one unforgettable night at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi on April 18. Chart-topping acts
ENHYPEN, Ten, FIFTY FIFTY, Dabin, and ARTMS will light up the stage with jaw-dropping performances. Experience the energy, fan chants, and exclusive moments you won’t see anywhere else – a must for every true K-Pop fan! etihadarena.ae
Sunburn Festival
When: December 2026.
Tickets: TBA.
Abu Dhabi is gearing up for the UAE debut of Sunburn Festival this December – Asia’s biggest electronic dance music extravaganza. Past festivals have featured legendary names like Martin Garrix, David Guetta, DJ Snake, Swedish House Mafia, Armin van Buuren, Marshmello, and Alan Walker to the stage, and expectations are sky-high for the Abu Dhabi edition. Full line-up and details will be revealed soon, so keep your eyes on whatson.ae sunburn.in/abu-dhabi
EXHIBIT B
A look beyond the ritual and relics of UAE museums
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
Why do you go to museums? The obvious answer is to see art and historical exhibits. But today’s museums go far beyond the stereotype of hushed galleries and forbidden frames, they’re now dynamic destinations designed to engage visitors of every age. Join us on a curated tour of the immersive experiences, interactive installations, film screenings and hands-on workshops these prestigious cultural spaces are now offering.
Al Shindagha Museum
Looking out for activities that include the whole family (and possibly teamwork)? Al Shindagha Museum offers a fun way to explore its museums with its ‘Windows Family Trail’. The activity takes place every weekend at selected clusters of the museum’s expansive baits (houses) and will have you and your little ones exploring each window and solving puzzles. The best news? It’s entirely free and you will learn many new things along your journey. You can partake every weekend from 10am to 7pm. The museum even hosts numerous workshops over the weekend from 4pm to 7pm, including a jewellery workshop where you can walk home proudly wearing your creation, boat-making and more. alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae
Al Shindagha Museum
The Cultural Foundation
Perched along Abu Dhabi’s historic Corniche, in one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, the Cultural Foundation is a central hub for arts and creativity. Inside, rotating exhibitions showcase contemporary and traditional art, photography, and heritage displays, offering visitors a glimpse into the UAE’s artistic landscape across generations. Beyond the exhibitions, the Cultural Foundation comes alive with a vibrant lineup of programs. In March, there’s silk painting workshops on Sunday, watercolour sessions on Wednesday, jewellery making on Thursday, and so much more. Prices vary, and there are package sessions available, too. Visitors can even catch live theatre, music, and dance performances, or attend film screenings and cultural talks. culturalfoundation.ae
Hatta Heritage Village
Louvre Abu Dhabi
If you like your history with fresh mountain air, consider Hatta Heritage Village your very own open-air museum. The space is a beautifully restored 16th century mountain village that offers a glimpse into traditional Emirati life. Expect stone houses, wooden doors and palm-frond roofs showcasing life from centuries past. You can also make your way up watchtowers, explore courtyards and see wonderful traditional crafts. If you’re working on your photography skills, you will walk away with some brilliant snaps. While you’re there, you can add on to your trip and check out the Hatta Dam, as well as enjoy a picnic at Hatta Hill Park. Or, go a different route and learn about beekeeping and honey production in the region with Hatta Honey Bee Discovery Centre. You can even participate in workshops and hands-on activities (while suited up to protect yourself, of course) which is included in with your Dhs50 ticket. Book your tickets on hattahoney.ae visithatta.ae
For art lovers – tourists or residents – a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a must. But did you know that beyond its more than 6,000 works of art, there’s a whole world of experiences waiting to be discovered? Visitors can also kayak around the museum to admire its striking architecture from the water or set sail on a private catamaran cruise for a memorable experience. With major exhibitions like the ongoing Picasso, the Figure, the restaurant works with the museum to create dishes inspired by the artist. The degustation menu will be available until May 31 for foodies to indulge (and hopefully, fall in love with the art). There are family treasure hunts, VR attractions, alfresco under dome yoga sessions, and during the cooler months, the museum hosts outdoor movie screenings along its promenade. On March 20, you can watch The Red Turtle – an 80-minute film inspired by the Abu Dhabi Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Project. louvreabudhabi.ae
The Cultural Foundation
Hatta Heritage Village
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Located on Saadiyat Island, Manarat Al Saadiyat is a vibrant cultural hub where art, creativity, and community come together. Inside, rotating exhibitions showcase contemporary art, photography, and heritage. Beyond the galleries, the venue hosts handson workshops for adults and children, from painting and photography to pottery, ceramic, design and other creative projects. Sessions run throughout the week with prices for teens and adults and cost Dhs100, while junior workshops (children ages six to 12) cost Dhs75. They even offer drop-in sessions daily for ceramics, painting, and printmaking with prices from Dhs30. Additionally, performances, music events, and seasonal festivals bring the space alive, while outdoor installations and projections offer immersive experiences against the backdrop of Saadiyat’s waterfront. manaratalsaadiyat.ae
Museum of Candy
Love an Instagrammable attraction? Museum of Candy hits the sweet spot with colourful, immersive and interactive rooms featuring playful installations including a gummy bear pool, a cotton candy tub, and an ice cream chill-out zone. Children and adults can unleash their inner child as they go from room to room, collecting candy along the way. Make sure you visit the Candy Lab where you can create your very own sugary treat blending different flavours and techniques. And don’t stress, there will be expert ‘candy scientists’ to help you create your sweet treat masterpiece. Tickets are priced from Dhs109 for adults and Dhs89 for children. themuseumofcandy.com
Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future in Dubai is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful museums in the world. Inside the jaw-dropping eyeshaped structure, visitors can immerse themselves in cutting-edge displays that bring science, technology, and innovation to life. From AI-powered installations to immersive futuristic environments, each exhibit feels like stepping into tomorrow. Outside the exhibitions, the museum comes alive with workshops for children and adults alike, which in the past have included AI-powered music, the future of food and sustainable cooking, digital finance, careers in augmented reality, and more – led by experts and innovators shaping the future. museumofthefuture.ae
Museum of Candy
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Museum of the Future
The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is the largest museum of its kind in the region and takes take visitors on a journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history. It explores life on Earth from the Big Bang to the rise of humans, including the evolution of dinosaurs and the planet’s biodiversity. Beyond the cool dinosaur bones and immersive galleries, the museum also hosts learning experiences and storytelling for children. The programme for March is to be confirmed, but in the past children could partake in digging for fossils, learn about sustainability, and more.
@nhm_abudhabi
Qasr Al Watan
The Flying Saucer
Sharjah Art Foundation has a remarkable talent for transforming the strange and curious into something beautifully imaginative. The Flying Saucer – a rehabilitated 1970s landmark that has been transformed into a community art space – is just one example.
The striking retro futuristic space blends architecture, art, and community life offering panoramic views.
Qasr Al Watan opened in 2019 and is a cultural landmark housed within the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi. Translating to ‘Palace of the Nation’, Qasr Al Watan is a working palace that hosts official state visits and summits. It boasts stunning Arabian architecture, and while its white and gold exteriors will leave you in awe, you haven’t seen anything until you step inside. The palace boasts one of the largest domes in the world – measuring 37 metres in diameter.
Inside, visitors can also gain a deeper understanding of the UAE’s governing traditions and values and explore a vast collection of historic artifacts and manuscripts. There is also a library and a large Presidential banquet hall where major state banquets are held.
Plan your visit so you can catch sunset after your visit to catch the Palace in Motion light and sound show. The striking immersive display lights up the exterior of the palace and tells the story of the past, present and the future vision of the nation. It takes place every evening, though timings vary, so plan ahead. Tickets for the show alone are priced at Dhs12 for children and Dhs25 for adults, while access to both the palace and the show costs Dhs80 per adult and Dhs40 per child. qasralwatan.ae
While there’s a public art library filled with books and catalogues, a social area, and film screenings, there are also creative programs offered from calligraphy to photography, art sessions and more. On April 4, little ones ages three to five can learn the art of line drawing in the hand-on art workshop. More sessions will be added and updated on sharjahart.org.
Want another reason to visit? Beneath the saucer, you’ll find a sunken circular courtyard with lush vegetation and natural light. Sit here to get some work done, journal or simply pick a book from the library and read. visitsharjah.com, sharjahart.org
Qasr Al Watan
The Flying Saucer
The Natural History Museum
THE GENTLE RESET
WORDS: LANA DU
Easy ways to move, stretch and find your flow again
DUBAI
Amonth of fasting encourages the body to adapt; energy is used more efficiently, daily habits become more intentional, and there are real benefits in that. When it ends, it’s tempting to snap straight back into packed diaries, tough workouts and heavy dinners. But the smarter move is holding on to what Ramadan taught us: awareness, discipline, balance and easing back in gradually. This means embracing low-impact sessions and making the most of mobility work. Here’s where to begin your gentle reset in the UAE.
Beauty Day at eforea Spa, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Spend a morning dedicated to wellness and skincare at eforea Spa, in collaboration with HydroPeptide. Start with a gentle yoga session to wake up the body, then enjoy light refreshments before a hands-on beauty masterclass with step-by-step guidance and a beauty bar experience. All participants receive travel-size HydroPeptide gift bags, followed by a wellness lunch at Jones the Grocer and a 30% off voucher on treatments to use later.
Where: eforea Spa, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah. When: Sunday, March 29, 9am to 12.30pm.
Cost: Dhs350 per person (advance booking required by March 23).
Contact: @eforea.dubai @hiltondubai
International Women’s Day with Samadhi & Maison Santé at Banyan Tree Dubai
Celebrate the spirit of Women’s Day (a day in advance) with a morning of movement, wellness and insight. Start with a gentle Vinyasa Flow Yoga session led by Estefa Pastor from Samadhi, enjoy breakfast on Tocha Terrace, then join a relaxed, informative chat with Natalia Belaiche from Maison Santé about the female ecosystem: Hormones, gut, pH, and the nervous system, and why looking after them together supports long-term wellbeing.
Where: Tocha Terrace, Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters.
When: Saturday, March 8, 8.30am to 11am.
Cost: Dhs390 per person.
Contact: @samadhimywellness @banyantreedxb
Yoga and Pilates at HWH Studio
Wake up with a gentle stretch or wind down in the evening. HWH Studio offers classes that move your body, calm your mind, and ease you back into your daily rhythm. From Reformer Pilates to Morning Flow, Sunset Flow, and Power Vinyasa, sessions help build strength, improve flexibility and restore balance – all designed to fit your schedule.
Where: Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Delano Dubai, SIRO One Za’abeel.
When: Daily, 5.30am to 7pm – see full schedule at hwhstudiodubai.com
Cost: Starting from Dhs250 per class.
Contact: @hwhstudio
Somatic Yoga at Talise Spa, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
Slow things down with this monthly Somatic Yoga session at Talise Spa. Designed around mindful, intentional movement, the class focuses on releasing tension, improving mobility and reconnecting body and mind. Expect gentle flows, breath-led awareness, and nervous system reset – against the backdrop of stunning sea views.
Where: Talise Fitness Terrace, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab.
When: March 25; 4.30pm to 5.30pm.
Cost: Dhs700.
Contact: @jumeirahmarsaalarab
GYROTONIC private sessions at The Hundred Wellness Centre
The Hundred Wellness Centre lets you try this unique workout that blends yoga, ballet, swimming, tai chi and gymnastics. Using the GYROTONIC Expansion System, you’ll move in circular motions that strengthen and stretch the body, improving posture and coordination. Sessions are fully bespoke, suitable for all levels, and focus on building endurance and full-body mobility.
Where: The Hundred Wellness Centre, Street 53b, Jumeirah 1.
Contact: @thehundredwellness 04
When: Saturday to Thursday, 7am to 8pm.
Cost: Price varies per booking.
06
AURA Skypool
210 metres above Dubai, AURA Skypool offers mindful movement and a gentle reset. Enjoy sunrise yoga to wake the body slowly, evening breathwork to release stress, and immersive sound healing sessions to calm the mind. Each experience is designed to restore balance, improve focus, and help you reconnect with your body, with stunning 360° city views. Perfect for easing back into movement at your own pace.
Where: AURA Skypool, St. Regis Hotel, Palm Tower, 50th Floor, Palm Jumeirah.
When: Daily classes from 5.30am to 8pm. See the full schedule at auraskypool.com
Cost: From Dhs300 per person.
Contact: @auraskypool.dubai
ABU DHABI
07
Exclusive Sports Club at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
Set on Saadiyat’s white sands with the Arabian Sea as your backdrop, this club is all about moving, stretching and recharging. Try Fly Yoga in the airy yoga room – hammocks help open up your body and ease tension while keeping the flow gentle. Or dive into Aqua Activities in the pool for a low-impact workout that boosts strength and mobility without adding undue strain to your joints.
Where: Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Yoga Room (Fly Yoga) & Pool (Aqua Activities).
One of Abu Dhabi’s longest-running wellness studios, Bodytree provides consistent, high-quality instruction in a light, airy villa setting. From Foundation and Athletic Reformer Pilates to Beginner Yoga, Yin/Yang Vinyasa classes, there’s something for every level. The studio also runs workshops on posture, movement awareness and injury prevention to help deepen your practice.
Where: Al Manhal, Abu Dhabi.
When: Daily, 8.30am to 6pm; see full schedule at bodytreestudio.com
Cost: Varies by class.
Contact: @bodytreestudio
Forward, March
From canal runs to wellness summits, here’s how the UAE is shaping up this month
WORDS:
LANA DU
March lands in that in-between moment –Ramadan in full flow, yet wellness and activity remain on the calendar. From runs and fitness challenges to nutrition-focused events and expert-led sessions, there’s something for every active lifestyle. Whether you’re racing, testing your limits, or exploring the science behind performance, March has something for every way you like to stay active.
Motion, Mercato Mall
Motion’s newest studio in Mercato Mall has opened, bringing its signature indoor cycling programme together with Lagree Megaformer workouts under one roof. In a dedicated space equipped with the latest machines, Lagree sessions offer slow-burn, full-body strength training while cycling classes retain Motion’s soulful, high energy vibe. The studio is currently featuring a special Ramadan package for anyone looking to stay active this season.
Where: Mercato Mall, Jumeirah 1, Dubai.
When: Monday to Saturday, 7am to 10pm; Sunday 9am to 10pm.
Cost: As part of their Ramadan offer, unlimited access to Cycling + Lagree Megaformer is Dhs 1,490 for 30 days, unlimited Lagree Megaformer is Dhs 1,190 for 30 days, and unlimited Cycling is Dhs 990 for 30 days.
Contact: motion‑cycling.ae
Dubai World Cup 2026
One of the highlights of the global racing calendar, the 30th edition of the Dubai World Cup takes place at Meydan Racecourse, bringing together elite thoroughbreds, top jockeys, and international trainers for a day of world-class competition and celebration. Featuring multiple Group races and a total purse in the millions, the event combines high-stakes sport with fashion and entertainment. Whether you’re there for the finishes or the atmosphere, it’s a signature date in Dubai’s sporting year.
Where: Meydan Racecourse, Dubai. When: Saturday, March 28 (gates typically open mid-afternoon, with racing through the evening).
Contact: dubairacingclub.com
Dubai World Cup 2026
Motion,
Mercato Mall
Dubai Canal Run
Set against the scenic Downtown Dubai backdrop, the Dubai Canal Run welcomes runners of all abilities with 3km, 5km, and 10km options. The race village features live music, entertainment, and a dedicated 1km kids’ run with activities for the little ones, making it a fun day out for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.
When: Sunday, 29 March – Race Village opens at 6am for checkin, with the first distance (10km) starting at 7am.
Where: Dubai Canal, near Dubai Design District (D3).
Contact: @dubaicanalrun
VITASHOW Dubai 2026
Part of DUPHAT 2026, the Middle East and Africa’s largest pharmaceutical and nutraceutical gathering, VITASHOW Dubai is the region’s premier platform for vitamins, supplements, and wellness products. Covering 4,293 sqm of exhibition space, it brings together leading multinational and regional brands to showcase fast-moving products in health, nutrition, and preventive wellness. Exhibitors and visitors can connect with distributors, pharmacists, and buyers – all under one roof, making it a key hub for anyone in the wellness and nutrition industry.
Where: Dubai World Trade Centre.
When: March 24–26 (start time to be confirmed).
Contact: vitashowdubai.ae
2026 DEKA FIT Skydive Dubai
International Conference on Nutrition and Physical Activity
Dive into the latest research and trends in health and wellness at the International Conference on Nutrition and Physical Activity, organised by SCIENCENET. This full-day event brings together researchers, scholars, industry professionals, and decision-makers for workshops, presentations, and plenary sessions designed to inform, inspire, and spark collaboration. An opportunity to connect with experts and explore the future of nutrition and physical activity.
Where: Al Ain, UAE.
When: Friday, March 27.
Contact: sciencenet.co
Set against the iconic waterfront of Dubai Harbour, DEKA FIT returns as the region’s ultimate functional fitness race. Athletes tackle 10 challenging zones across 5km of running, all laid out within a single course, with age group and elite competitors facing the same obstacles and weights. Compete solo or as part of a team, and push your limits in this high-energy test of strength, endurance, and teamwork. The event space combines purposebuilt zones with stunning views of Dubai Marina, making it as visually impressive as it is physically demanding.
Where: Skydive Dubai, Dubai Harbour.
When: Saturday, March 28, 7am
Contact: spartan.com
Dubai Canal Run
International Conference on Nutrition and Physical Activity
DEKA FIT
VITASHOW Dubai 2026
DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS
glamping GONE
The sun is shining, the great outdoors is calling. Those looking for weekend adventures with a luxury touch are in safe hands in the UAE with a string of new glamping spots, where open-air fun comes with five-star touches
WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN AND MILES BUCKERIDGE
Luxeglamp, Umm Al Quwain
Putting an elevated spin on the glamping experience in Umm Al Quwain is Luxeglamp, with its futuristic glass domes that line a boardwalk, which gazes out serenely over the mangroves. Those looking for privacy and romance will find themselves blissfully taken care of inside these zen-inducing dome tents, where Bali-inspired interiors are befitting of the offgrid location, and plush upgrades like plunge pools and even private saunas further enhance the facilities on offer. Inside, you’ll find all the modern comforts you’d want: AC, an ensuite bathroom; and even a mini-bar stocked with soft drinks. Plus, if you’re celebrating a special occasion, add-on packages include bespoke balloon setups for birthdays, personalised anniversary cakes, and floral petals laid out if you book the romantic package. Activities range from in-villa floating breakfasts and pizza making in the restaurant, to alfresco pursuits that immerse guests in the local environment. Think guided walks through the mangrove forests or kayaking adventures that invite you to discover the range of birds and fish that call the water home. Whether you’re looking to drop-and-flop or experience all there is on offer, you’ll find a glamping staycation that suits your style.
Rates: From Dhs1,950 per dome per night for two adults, including breakfast. Book: uae.luxeglamp.com
Parvara, Fujairah
Unrolling against the craggy backdrop of Jabal al-Hamri – one of Fujairah’s highest peaks – Parvara is self-described as a luxury mountain pavilion sanctuary, thoughtfully designed to blend comfort with simplicity. A new kind of glamping escape designed for those looking to switch into DND mode, this off-grid escape is rooted in local heritage and nature. You book one of their curated journeys — which range from one to six nights — and enjoy the curated activities that come with it. Book a 24-hour digital detox and your stay will feature a sunrise trail, morning water and stone-based ‘Oasis Tub’ experience, and evening bonfire; while the two-day ‘Active Renewal’ experience promises yoga at dawn, ‘tree of life’ dinner, and guided walks. There are no restaurant or menus, instead, meals are crafted ahead of time with local flavours and regional ingredients in mind and can be served in open-air settings around the space, inviting you to relax and reconnect on your own rhythm.
Rates: Packages from Dhs7,345 with the special UAE resident direct booking rate.
Book: parvara.com
Caravan Hatta by Our Habitas, Dubai
Hatta is one of the UAE’s most treasured spots when city-dwellers are craving a return to nature. And it’s already impressive glamping options are set to be further enhanced with the arrival of Caravan Hatta, a destination of 50 Airstream trailers. Created by Our Habitas, the Tulum-born hospitality brand that’s already behind a stunning caravan glamping spot in AlUla, Caravan Hatta marks the brand’s first UAE project and will open very soon. Inviting guests to immerse themselves in Hatta’s natural beauty, the 50 bespoke airstream trailers will be backdropped by the craggy Hajar mountains and calm waters of the Hatta Dam. Each will come with sweeping views over the valley or lake and will combine locally sourced materials with organic textiles, further adding to the grounding experience. Away from their airstream address, guests will be able to enjoy a wealth of experiences at The Lake House, which serves as the property’s central gathering point. An infinity pool backed by mountain views will sit at the beating heart, but a wider roster of cultural and wellness experiences will also be central to Caravan Hatta. Think creative workshops that draw from Hajar traditions, a nature-inspired hot and cold therapy area with a barrel sauna, outdoor cold plunge and hot tub, plus sound healing, yoga and meditation. Of course, the local landscape will also be the perfect playground for adventurous pursuits, with hiking and biking trails, plus kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake. After dark, an observatory deck invites guests to discover the constellations with guided stargazing.
Rates: TBC
Book: ourhabitas.com
Nomad, Sharjah
Sharjah Collection are the creators of some of the UAE’s best glamping experiences. Perfectly framing Sharjah’s stretching landscapes, they include the out-of-this-world Moon Retreat, where guests bed down in dome tents with private plunge pools in the desert, and the beautifully Bedouin Najd Al Meqsar, which has transformed a hilltop village in Khorfakkan into a rustic-luxe glamping retreat that takes you back in time. And the newest addition to Sharjah Collection’s array of luxe glamping getaways is Nomad. Set on rugged natural terrain in Kalba’s mountains, Nomad is a collection of 20 eco-luxury trailers dotted across a vast landscape, each of which comes with a private BBQ area perfect for alfresco dinners under the starry night sky. Those who prefer to leave the cooking up to the professionals can enjoy an on-site restaurant, complemented by seasonal activities that encourage you to make the most of the beautiful location. Think birdwatching, outdoor yoga and stargazing.
Rates: From Dhs1,004 per trailer per night for two adults, including breakfast.
Book: sharjahcollection.ae
T-Rex Glamping, Dubai
Looking for a roar-some family getaway? Trade the traditional hotel stay for the world’s first dinosaur-themed glamping retreat at Dubai Parks & Resorts. Putting a prehistoric spin on staycationing, there are 57 tents in total based on different eras, from Triassic Megapods to T-REX Terahavens. Opt for the Signature Jurassic Tents, which include garden views and BBQs, or the Premium Tent, which comes with private pools and added luxuries. Beyond your glamping tent, there’s plenty of themed activities to enjoy. Families with little ones can dig, discover, and uncover hidden fossils at the Excavation Site, watch the past come alive at the Lava Watchpoint, or take a dip in the Dinosaur Footprint Pool. And when the sun sets, families can gather around the fireside or watch a movie under the stars while the little ones enjoy playtime at the dedicated Kids’ Academy. The dino-themed entertainment continues in the dining experience. At the Roaring Dinosaur Café and Splashing Raptor pool bar, the whole gang can enjoy prehistoric-inspired meals and drinks. That’s not all. Depending on the length of stay, you’ll also get access to a number of Dubai Parks and Resorts’ theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Legoland Water Park and Real Madrid World, plus entry to Riverland Dubai – making this an action-packed escape all ages are sure to love.
Rates: From Dhs1,081 per tent per night for up to four, breakfast included. Book: trexglamping.dubaiparksandresorts.com
Al Marmoon Domes, Dubai
Away from Dubai’s glitzy skyline, Al Marmoom is a unique, experiential resort in Dubai of glamping domes that unroll within the emirate’s golden desert landscape. Tucked inside the UAE’s largest unfenced nature reserve, guests stay in glass domes that offer 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape and have been fitted out with wooden decks where you can recline on a lounger or take a dip in your private pool. While there’s plenty of five-star amenities inside each abode, you’re much better off using your glamping getaway as a base to discover the wealth of desert and Emiratiinspired experiences on offer. Enjoy camel and horseback rides, take part in cultural workshops or get a traditional henna tattoo, and take time to explore the rich biodiversity, spotting Arabian Oryx, gazelles, and over 150 species of migratory and native birds. After dark, delight in an authentic Arabian dinner at the Oasis, then watch as the skies become your own planetarium with stargazing in the tranquility of the desert.
Rates: From Dhs3,550 per dome per night for two adults, including breakfast. Book: almarmoondomes.com
Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat Camp, Abu Dhabi
Located on Abu Dhabi’s full-blooded adventure island Hudayriyat, accessible by bridge from the Al Bateen area on the mainland. The main attractions of Bab Al Nojoum are the range of tentS and more luxurious ‘camping’ options (including Airstream trailers) and, of course, blissful beach relaxation – curling up in a shaded hammock with a gripping page-turner. One of the latest additions to this desert island leisure treasure, the string of over-water villas that seamlessly cosplay Indian Ocean decadence. It might be a stretch to call this particular sort of stay, glamping, we’re simply saying it’s an option. A very fine option. The communal on-site facilities also offer outdoor cinemas, wellness journeys, and a rowdy roster of active exploits that includes watersports; volleyball, and the adrenaline thrills found just a short stroll away in the rest of Hudayriyat.
Rates: From Dhs1,600 for two nights in a Duplex Tent, based on double occupancy, breakfast included Book: babalnojoum.com
The Nest by Nara, Dubai
After establishing itself as one of the frontrunning desert safaris of choice for luxury travellers, Nara expanded into overnight accommodation by adding The Nest, an aesthetically sympatico glamping destination adjacent to its premium desert camp in Dubai. Each nest is built into the dunes, seamlessly creating your own private hideaway for an evening of outdoor dwelling. Inside, there’s a bedroom area, ensuite bathroom, and an outdoor majlis for surveying the sunset. There’s pizza and tapas for dinner (or you can add on the Sonara Camp experience next door), and a bougie Bedouin-style breakfast served from sunrise the next morning. Activities like camel riding and soft desert drives are part of the package, but you can also further enhance your stay with alcoholic drinks served at the bar, and exclusive experiences like a dreamy outdoor cinema setup just for you.
Rates: From Dhs2,070 for one night in a Dune Nest tent (up to four people)
Book: nara.ae
Pura Eco Retreat at Jebel Hafit Desert Park, Abu Dhabi
Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jebel Hafit is Abu Dhabi’s tallest peak, located in Al Ain, about 90 minutes’ drive from the capital city. Now operated by Pura Eco Retreats, the team that brought you those gorgeous glamping on Jubail Island, the campground offers static high-end tented accommodation, mountain lodges and panoramic bubble domes, as well as pitches for those that wish to bring their own canvas and poles. Holiday-makers come here to hike the heritage trails, mountain bike (rental available), enjoy dune buggy tours, ride camels and breathe in the rare fresh air (and lack of light pollution) that contributes to the perfect conditions for astronomy. Those with a historical thirst should make the trek to Jebel Hafit’s two archaeological sites. One, a Neolithic excavation, dates back 8,000 years — whilst the other, a 5,000-year-old tomb was excavated in 1959 on the orders of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Rates: From Dhs1,827 for two nights, Deluxe Mountain Lodge, breakfast included Book: jhdp.ae
Longbeach Campground, Ras Al Khaimah
The homestead spread at Longbeach runs the full glamping gamut, from basic budget “sleeping bags and midnight snacks by torchlight” options, right through to Panoramic Dome Tents and Sunset Terrace Suites. The central attraction of this low-impact oasis is that it’s located on a 300-metre stretch of dreamy Ras Al Khaimah beachscape. Headline attractions include a pool with slides, a dedicated beach, outdoor spa, infinity pool bar, a kiddos’ club, water sports, and even a floating theatre. Days are dedicated to activities for families, couples, and groups, with everything from live cooking stations to water-top adventures on offer. For those looking to lock-in their stay, all-inclusive options are also available. Rates: Basic tents from Dhs627 (two nights, with breakfast), Safari Suite Tents with an all-inclusive package start at Dhs5,240 (two nights) Book: bmhotelsresorts.com
Sir Bani Yas Island
Into the wild... with a side of luxury
WORDS: LEONIE WAGNER
THE STAY
The journey begins at Jebel Dhanna Ferry Terminal, where a 30-minute boat ride carries you across to Sir Bani Yas Island. We left just before sunset, the mainland shrinking behind us, the sky turning syrupy gold. Sir Bani Yas Island is a 30-minute ride away, but it feels further. We split our weekend between Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort and Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort. One on the beach, one deep in the wild. Two very different moods. Both unforgettable.
THE SETTING
Sir Bani Yas is the UAE’s largest natural island and home to more than 11,000 free-roaming animals. It sounds like a marketing line until you see an Arabian oryx stroll past your vehicle like it owns the place. Because it does. This island is one of the region’s great conservation stories. What was once barren land is now a protected reserve where endangered species are bred and released.
THE ROOM
Al Yamm sits right on the beach with the ocean on your doorstep. Our villa had a private plunge pool and a deck made for
slow mornings with coffee. It feels private in the best way. No noise. No rush. Just sea and sky. Al Sahel is tucked into the savannah, it feels like a safari lodge. Earthy tones, wide wooden decks and wildlife wandering past as if on cue. You wake up, pull back the curtains and there are gazelles grazing a few metres away.
THE FOOD AND DRINK
Dinner at Olio on the first night was all Italian comfort with a sea view. Fresh pasta, good olive oil, the kind of meal that signals the weekend has officially begun.
But the standout was Savannah. Lunch was lively, with gazelles and peacocks wandering near the terrace as if they had reservations, too. Breakfast the next morning came with the same audience.
Then there was the Boma dinner. Open flames. Meat grilled properly. The smell of smoke in the air. It was warm and unpretentious and quietly perfect.
THE ACTIVITIES
The wildlife drive is non-negotiable. Our guide took us across dunes and through open plains where Arabian oryx, addax and blue wildebeest roam. It is humbling to
sit still while a giraffe decides whether to acknowledge you. We did an early morning kayaking session through the mangroves. The water was calm, birds lifting off in small flocks as we glided past. Everything here circles back to conservation. From rare species encounters to mangrove restoration and sustainability projects behind the scenes, this is luxury with a conscience.
THE EXPERIENCE
This weekend was about contrast. Beach to bush. Salt air to dry desert wind. It was about watching the sun dip below the horizon from a boat deck and realising you have not checked your phone in hours. About breakfast with gazelles. About remembering that wild spaces do something to you that no five star lobby ever can. The staff strike that perfect balance: present, warm, never intrusive.
THE COSTS
Villa rates vary by season, but expect beachfront villas at Al Yamm and safari style villas at Al Sahel to sit firmly in the luxury bracket. This is a special occasion stay. At Al Yamm, beachfront and pool villas can start around Dhs1190 to Dhs1400 per night. At Al Sahel, villas in the savannah sit in a similar range, from Dhs1190 per night.
THE FINAL SAY
Sir Bani Yas Island is a reminder that the UAE has wild corners that surprise you. You leave a little windblown, a little sun kissed, and quietly grateful. For the animals. For the silence. For the boat ride back, watching the island fade into the distance, already planning your return.
THE DETAILS
Sir Bani Yas, pool villas from Dhs1,722. Tel: (0)2 801 4200. anantara.com
