Team What’s On share some of their top spots in the UAE
49
51 TEAM WHAT’S ON’S FAVOURITE EATS
Our most memorable dining experiences of 2025
54 REVIEW
Dubai’s biggest fire pit for food lovers
57 REVIEW
This bar was so good, we hit replay
61 TOP FLAVOURS, HAND-PICKED
Our 2025 dish obsessions 75
The performances you can’t miss in December
81 WELLNESS, BUT MAKE IT AL FRESCO Good vibes... fresh air...
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86 THAT’S VEGAS, BABY We hit the jackpot of excitement
90 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT
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Bombón nights at La Niña turn DIFC into your new Thursday ritual
FINE DINING, LATIN FLAIR, AND LATE-NIGHT ENERGY AT ICD BROOKFIELD PLACE
Some nights are made for reservations that feel like an occasion from the moment you step out of the lift. La Niña at ICD Brookfield Place has taken that idea and turned it into Bombón, a Thursday experience that marries everything the restaurant already does well. Confident food, seriously delicious drinks, a room that looks like it was designed for people who enjoy staying out, and a soundtrack that grows as the night does. From 7.30pm, the dining room shifts gear. The lights soften, the tempo rises, and Bombón starts to unfold. This is not a rigid package or theme night. It is La Niña in its element. Expect polished service, a well-heeled DIFC crowd, and a menu that moves across Latin flavours with precision rather than pastiche. Plates arrive with colour and texture, designed for sharing or for guarding selfishly, and every dish feels like it belongs in a place that takes both detail and drama seriously.
At the bar, the team builds cocktails that match the mood. Bright, layered, and thoughtfully constructed, they sit alongside a considered wine list and premium pours. The atmosphere climbs on cue as the DJs take over. Bombón brings a line up that includes Wynton Harvey, Sonya, and Glez & Effe, curating sets that slide from warm-up rhythms into late-night momentum. It feels like a house party hosted by people who understand lighting, sound, and timing.
The setting does the rest. ICD Brookfield Place gives La Niña height, glass, and skyline glimpses, while the
interiors wrap you in deep tones and statement touches. It is sophisticated without being stiff, animated without ever tipping into chaos. The kind of night where you can celebrate, date, or just arrive with friends who enjoy being in a room that looks like this.
As the festive season approaches, La Niña is also preparing a special Christmas set menu that will bring its signature Latin elegance to the holidays. Whether it is a Thursday Bombón, a long dinner, or a festive gathering, this is a room ready for winter in the city.
For reservations and more information, visit laninarestaurant.com or contact La Niña at ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC.
Location: ICD Brookfield Place, 312 Al Mustaqbal St. First floor, Zaa’beel Second, DIFC - Dubai
Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday: 12AM to 1AM & Friday to Saturday: 12PM to 2AM Visit: https://laninarestaurant.com
IT’S TIME...
Just like that… we’ve blinked and reached the end of the year. It’s that time when we all look back, feel grateful, and, if you’re in Dubai, realise there are approximately a million things happening at once. Luckily, we’ve rounded up all the big ones (and the hidden gems), so you won’t miss a moment.
This festive issue is packed with everything you need to make the season feel magical. Christmas Day brunches? Got them. Christmas Eve dinners? Absolutely. Prefer to stay home in pyjamas and make your own memories? We’ve got plenty of tips, ideas, and cosy inspo to make Christmas at home just as magical.
As 2025 wraps up, we just want to say a massive thank you. We hope you’ve had an amazing year hanging out with us at What’s On. We’ve loved discovering new spots, trying new things, and exploring this wonderful city and bringing the best of it to you every day.
Here’s to more fun, more food, and more Dubai adventures in 2026. See you next year…
MERRY MISCHIEF LANDS IN DUBAI:
AN EPIC ADVENT CALENDAR, CLEVER GIFTS AND HOME DELIVERY FROM MMI
Playful elves, limited editions, and a code for easy stocking-up all December
It’s that time of the year where you ar stuck between office parties, airport pickups and “bring something nice” invites, and it can all be a lot. But here is a shortcut: MMI has turned its Dubai stores (and its Ras Al Khaimah outpost) into a cheerful “Merry Mischief” takeover filled with elves, mini wonderland décor, gifting corners and expert staff ready with pairing tips. Add in MMI Home Delivery, MMI Cheers Club App and a handy WHATSON20 code (20 per cent off, exclusions apply), and the seasonal stock-up stops feeling like a chore and starts looking a lot like fun.
Headlining the festive line-up is the Merry Mischief Advent Calendar, a crowd-pleasing box of 24 mini bottles from much-loved labels including Moët & Chandon, Bombay Sapphire, Absolut, Bottega Gold and Jameson. It is the sort of present that gets opened early, shared widely, and talked about long after the tree comes down. You will find it in stores and online, but do not dither, stock is limited and available while supplies last.
New this season, MMI is also rolling out “Sips & Spills,” a cheeky, limited-edition board game that brings festive dares to a Snakes & Laddersstyle format. It is pitched squarely at grown-up gatherings (audience 21+), and it pairs perfectly with a grazing board and your favourite playlist. Like the calendar, it is available in stores and for delivery, and yes, it’s the easy, last-minute “secret Santa” solution you have been hunting for.
Gifting is where MMI’s merry machine really hums. The shelves are lined with curated picks and limited-edition gift packs, and the team can help with personalised wrapping and packaging so you look like you had this plan all along. Not sure what pairs with your Christmas Eve menu or New Year’s lunch, ask in-store. MMI’s beverage specialists are on hand with thoughtful food-and-wine pairing advice that keeps budgets sensible and flavour right. If you are going big for New Year’s
Eve, look out for magnums and premium bubbles that play nicely with countdown moments and guest lists that seem to double overnight.
Prefer to take the celebration outside? The “Cocktail Mayhem” series pops up around town with festive serves crafted by Travis Kuhn (MMI Bar Academy) and poured at Swingers (Bluewaters), BB Social (DIFC) and The Address Dubai Mall. It is a neat way to taste something new before you recreate it at home, or simply to slide a fun stop into your December plans without adding another decision to the list.
Of course, convenience is half the battle in peak season, and this is where MMI Home Delivery earns its place on your phone’s home screen. Browse the full range, tap for mixed baskets, and get it sent to your door in festive-wrapped vans, complete with personalised recommendations and Cheers Club perks if you have downloaded the MMI App. Do not forget the WHATSON20 code at checkout for 20 per cent off (T&Cs and category exclusions apply).
If you are an in-person shopper, you are covered too. MMI has 27 stores across Dubai plus one in Ras Al Khaimah, each dressed for the season and ready with tastings on select days. Pop in for the big shop, or dash through for the host gift you nearly forgot. Pro tip - sketch your calendar from now through New Year’s, list the gatherings and likely headcounts, and shop once, building in a few “just in case” bottles for the ring-in-2026 plans that appear out of nowhere.
Whether you are filling stockings, prepping a long table, or lining up a living-room countdown, the theme is the same: make life easier, keep it thoughtful, and add a little mischief. With the Advent Calendar, Sips & Spills game, gift services, cocktail collabs and delivery savings, MMI has bundled the hard part so you can get on with the good part.
Where to start: drop into your nearest MMI in Dubai (27 locations), or MMI Ras Al Khaimah, or order from mmihomedelivery.ae or the MMI Cheers Club App. WHATSON20 gets you 20% off on MMI Home Delivery or the MMI Cheers Club App (exclusions apply; limited time only). The Advent Calendar and Sips & Spills are available while stock last.
Good to know: Service is for customers 21+. Please drink responsibly.
WATCH A MOVIE IN THE SKY AT AURA SKYPOOL
When: December 11
This Christmas, Dubai’s breathtaking sky-high infinity pool and bar, Aura Skypool, invites guests to get into the festive spirit with a Christmas movie night – screening Miracle on 34th Street on December 11. The evening begins from 8.30pm, where you’ll toast to silly season with free-flowing bubbles and graze on festive canapes, while admiring the views from the Aura Lounge. @auraskypool.dubai
BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN DECEMBER YALLA
WORDS: MADIE MURPHY
EID AL ETIHAD FIREWORKS
When: December 1 to 3
There are various fireworks around the city to celebrate Eid Al Etihad (National Day). At Festival Bay in Dubai Festival City the fireworks begin at 8pm on December 2; in Global Village they’re every evening from December 1 to 3, and on JBR,its on December 2 at 9pm. @thebeachbyjbr
SEE PITBULL LIVE
When: December 14
Global superstar Pitbull is coming to the Coca-Cola Arena and bringing his explosive I’m Back Tour to Dubai. Mr. Worldwide delivers a night packed with his biggest hits, including Give Me Everything, Fireball, Timber, and Don’t Stop the Party. @cocacolaarena
BARKFEST BY FEASTIVAL
When: December 13
This much-loved dog festival returns this month. And for the first time ever, it’s heading to the shores of Dubai. Taking place at Barasti Beach, it’s a jampacked day of festival fun and pawfect for your four legged friend. Bark-fest.com
DAVID GUETTA AT USHUAÏA DUBAI
When: December 19
Award winning DJ and producer David Guetta will take over Ushuaia this month. The hit maker is set to keep the dance floor open with hits like Titanium, Memories and Bad @ushuaiadubai
OUTDOOR CINEMAS
When: Throughout December Did summer give you cabin fever? Fear not, it’s that time of the year where being outdoors is welcomed and what better way to enjoy a movie on the big screen then at an outdoor cinema. You can try out Moonlight by Vox Cinema’s or Cinema Akil at 25hours Dubai. @voxcinemas
HEAD BACK TO NAMMOS DUBAI
When: December 8
Nammos Dubai set the benchmark for Dubai beach clubs when it brought high-octane seaside dining to Four Seasons Jumeirah in 2019. Now, after a six-month transformation, it’s back, reopening on Monday, December 8. @nammos.dubai
AN INTIMATE TIESTO SET
When: December 20 He played to thousands at UNTOLD in 2024 and now he’s back in Dubai for a more intimate gig at Surf Club on West Beach, Palm Jumeirah. For house and EDM lovers, he’s a must see but tickets will be limited.
@surfclubdubai
SOLE DXB
When: December 12 to 14
Sole DXB returns to Dubai Design District this December, bringing three days of music, fashion, street culture, and art, making it an unmissable events in Dubai. This year’s headliners include South African singer-songwriter Tyla, American R&B sensation Miguel, and Canadian DJ Kaytranada. @soledxb
THE UAE ACCORDING TO...
Through MY EYES WO TEAM
Each month we ask residents to share a guide to the UAE through their eyes – from their must-try restaurants and standout attractions to favoruite staycations and hidden gems. This month is a little different, the What’s On team share their hidden gems, favourite staycation spots and where to relax, because no one knows the UAE better than What’s On.
Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia, located in Jumeirah Al Qasr, is my go-to. You take an abra to get there, and the setting is beautifully calm - right on the water and surrounded by greenery. The food is pure comfort Indian cuisine, elevated with stunning presentation. Every visit feels special, and it’s easily one of my favourite spots. @atrangi.dubai - by Sammi Barnard
Anantara Qasr Al Sarab has to be my favourite hotel in the UAE. It’s a secluded getaway that’s 2 and a half hours outside of Abu Dhabi and it’s worth the drive. This hotel is hidden in the dunes of the desert and transports you to a different world. Book a villa with a private pool, it’s worth every dirham. @anantaraqasralsarab - by Madie Murphy
Need a proper chill day? Head to Tagomago on Palm Jumeirah. Think mini Balearic vibes, deep oranges, bursts of greenery, and a sun-kissed, island-life feel. The adultsonly pool is pure calm; the beach is family-friendly – pick your vibe. Go solo or with a friend. Grab a sunbed, take a dip, sip coconut water, and nibble on Spanish tapas while mellow tunes play, you’ll end up staying all day, feeling completely recharged.
@tagomagodubai - by Lana Du
Talise Spa at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island is the kind of place that makes your shoulders drop the moment you step inside. It’s calm in a way that feels earned. Time slows, the light softens and the sunset puts on a show only Saadiyat can pull off. Treatments drift between soothing and transformative, and the whole space feels like it was designed for people who forgot how to breathe properly. If you need a place to exhale, this is your must try sanctuary. - by Leonie Wagner
If there is one thing I enjoy doing (after drinking karak), it’s going on a roadtrip. The open road, dunes that go on for miles and a playlist featuring Masego, what more could you need. The UAE offers many stunning roadtrips but so far, my adventure to the Al Qua’a Desert remains a highlight and one everyone should experience. @arabian.wanderers offer regular stargazing trips.
- by Liam Joyce
Al Fahidi – the beating heart of Dubai. Here, history doesn’t sit behind glass and every corner surprises, from wind towers to a sunlit courtyard, a wooden door worn smooth by generations, a gallery tucked inside a centuries-old home, and of course, those glittering Creek views..” - by Aarti Saundalkar
IChristmas in the trees:
Aventura
turns Mushrif Park into a festive zipline playground
Santa by zipline, movie nights under the stars, and 24 lines of pure whoosh
f your ideal December mixes twinkling lights with tree canopy thrills, Aventura Parks is your north star. Tucked inside the ghaf forest of Mushrif Park, the UAE’s largest zipline and rope adventure park is rolling out a month of festive fun that works for every kind of crew, from little climbers to full-tilt thrill seekers, from office teams to families hunting for an easy day out.
Circle Saturday December 13 for the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, the night the forest flips into holiday mode. Santa makes a grand entrance by zipline, there are photo moments baked in, and the glow of the lights sets the tone for the rest of the season. Arrive a little early, grab a hot drink from The Ghafé Restaurant, and pick your vantage point before the countdown begins.
Day or night, the course is set for your next challenge. The Zipline Park spans five circuits, 80 plus obstacles, and 24 ziplines, graded so you can build confidence or go straight for bragging rights. The Extreme Circuit is the headline grabber with a 25-metre Tarzan jump and a surfboard ride through the trees that feels made for your camera roll. Younger guests can stick to the Discovery Playground, a safe space to test balance and bounce without the big heights, while families and friends can switch gears with Forest Escape Games, the team challenge that trades climbing for clever problem solving while navigating the forest.
After the adventure, savor live music and nature-inspired bites surrounded by the beautiful ghaf tree forest. Movie Nights run every Friday, a bring-your-crew ritual under the stars. Live music lands every Saturday and Sunday at The Ghafé, so you can pair a climb with an easy dinner and a set list. The restaurant handles the nature-inspired eats, and the team can scale up to five-star catered spreads for private and corporate celebrations. It is a simple formula, a single venue that can host a team day, a birthday,
or a full end-of-year gathering without the spreadsheet headache.
Part of the appeal is how close it all is. The park sits about 20 minutes from Downtown, far enough to feel like an escape, close enough to make plans on a whim. Tickets are Dhs75 to Dhs375 depending on the activity, and there is an Dhs20 visitor pass for anyone who wants forest vibes, restaurant access and chill zone time without clipping in. Seasonal timings vary, so check the website and book ahead for the December 13 tree lighting as capacity is limited.
Where: Aventura Parks, Mushrif Park, Dubai When: Festive programming all December, Tree Lighting on December 13 Tickets: Dhs75 to 375 for activities, Dhs20 visitor pass Info and bookings: aventuraparks.com
CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24
WORDS: SAMMI BARNARD
Brasserie Lutetia
Beef Bistro
Gourmet Christmas Eve set menu curated by Chef David Gache, featuring premium cuts and fine wines, with live saxophone entertainment to elevate the festive evening.
Location: Beef Bistro, Le Méridien Dubai
Hotel & Conference Centre
Times: December 24, 7.30pm to 11.30pm
Cost: Set menu Dhs450; wine pairing
Dhs700
Contact: (04) 702 2455
@beefbistrodxb
Bla Bla
Featuring an elegant four-course menu with seasonal favourites like wagyu tenderloin, Christmas turkey, and porcini risotto. Enjoy gourmet dishes, cheerful vibes, and signature cocktails in a festive Dubai setting.
Location: A Casa by Bla Bla, The Beach, JBR, Dubai
Times: December 24, from 7pm onwards
Cost: Dhs275 per person
Contact: (058) 606 3535
@blabladubai
Christmas Eve dinner with Parisian charm, golden roasts, exquisite entrées, and handcrafted desserts, all accompanied by live entertainment. Elegant interiors and twinkling décor create a festive, heartwarming atmosphere.
Christmas Eve dinner with a curated three-course menu. Start with refined
East 14
snacks like chestnut mousse and wagyu beef tartare, followed by elegant starters such as seared foie gras with apricot chutney or dill-scented salmon gravlax. Main courses include beef rossini with truffle, slow-cooked lamb loin, or a vegetarian butternut, Roquefort, and chestnut pithivier. Finish with festive desserts like dark chocolate peppermint torte or gingerbread-spiced parfait.
Location: Bull & Bear, Waldorf Astoria
DIFC
Times: December 24, 7pm to midnight
Cost: Three-course menu Dhs495 per person
Contact: (04) 515 9888
Casa Mia
Cosy Italian Christmas Eve dinner with a festive set menu and fine wine pairings, accompanied by live saxophone tunes for a warm, celebratory atmosphere.
Location: Casa Mia, Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
Times: December 24, 7.30pm to 11.30pm
Cost: Set menu Dhs450; with wine pairing Dhs700
Contact: (04) 702 2455
Cetara
Enjoy a festive sharing menu with alfresco dining, live entertainment, and elegant dishes celebrating the season. Perfect for toasting under the Dubai skyline or enjoying an intimate festive gathering.
Cost: Soft Dhs295; selected beverages Dhs395; children 6 to 12 Dhs140; children under 5 complimentary
Contact: (04) 436 8888
@cetaradubai
Christmas Eve dinner featuring bold Asian flavours, hand-pulled noodles, live dim sum and sushi stations, sizzling woks, and decadent desserts, all with stunning Dubai Marina views. Perfect for families and friends.
Location: East 14, Ciel Tower, Dubai Marina Times: December 24, 6pm to 11pm
Cost: Soft Dhs325; house Dhs475; sparkling Dhs595; children under 6 free; ages 7 to 12 50% off
Contact: (04) 499 7300
Elaia
A Mediterranean three-course set menu. Share starters like melitzanosalata and honey-baked feta, enjoy mains such as roasted leg of lamb or seabream fillet, and finish with rum baba and panettone semifreddo. Complimentary festive drink for guests wearing an ugly Christmas jumper.
Christmas Eve four-course set menu featuring Mediterranean and Arabianinspired dishes. Soft or house beverages complement the festive flavours in an elegant, Arabian-inspired setting.
Location: Ewaan, Palace Downtown, Downtown Dubai
Times: December 24, 7pm to 10.30pm
Cost: Soft Dhs425; house Dhs525
Contact: (04) 428 7961 @palacedowntown
Flow Kitchen
Indulge in a buffet with global festive flavours, including roasted turkey, succulent meats, seafood, and decadent desserts, prepared live at interactive stations. Entertainment includes Santa’s appearance and surprise gifts for children.
Location: Flow Kitchen, Fairmont the Palm
Times: December 24, 6.30pm to 10.30pm
Cost (Indoor): Soft Dhs250; house Dhs325; kids 6 to 12 Dhs150; kids 3 to 6 Dhs105
Cost (Outdoor): Soft Dhs299; House Dhs399; kids 6 to 12 Dhs150; kids 3 to 6 Dhs105
Contact: (04) 457 3457 @fairmontthepalm
Garden on 8
Quizmas Eve finale with festive trivia, themed rounds, mulled wine, ugly sweaters, and prizes. Swap your usual pub quiz for a full-blown holiday edition and enjoy the ultimate festive fun.
Location: Garden on 8, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City Times: December 24, 8pm to 10pm; happy hour until 8pm
Cost: Happy hour till 8pm, select drinks from Dhs32; Bucket & Tower deals from 8pm, from Dhs189
Contact: (052) 144 7438 @gardenon8dxb
Gohan
A festive three-course set menu showcasing Gohan’s signature Japanese finesse. Begin with delicately seasoned edamame, enjoy refined main courses that highlight traditional technique and flavour, and finish with a decadent dessert for a festive finale.
Location: Gohan, Delano Dubai, Bluewater Island Times: December 24, 7pm to 11pm
Cost: Dhs400 per person, three-course set menu
Contact: (04) 556 6622 @gohandubai
LIV
Christmas Eve festive buffet with sparkling drinks, Santa’s visit, live performances, and kids’ activities for the whole family.
Location: LIV, W The Palm, Dubai Times: December 24, 7pm to 11pm
Cost: Kids 6 to 12 Dhs165; under sixes free; soft Dhs299; house Dhs429; Prosecco Dhs599
Contact: (04) 245 5800
La Tablita
Christmas Eve Noche Buena Fiesta with authentic Mexican flavors, Latin beats, and festive vibes. Enjoy roasted turkey with a Mexican twist, tamales, tacos al pastor from live stations, and signature margaritas. Entertainment includes a live Latin singer and a piñata.
Location: La Tablita, Dubai Times: December 24, 7pm to 11pm
Cost: Dhs250 per person; kids Dhs150; beverages à la carte with festive drink promos available
Contact: (04) 553 1282
Mi Amie
Christmas Eve brunch with rooftop festivities, live entertainment, gourmet dishes, signature cocktails, and spectacular performances – all with Mi Amie’s festive magic.
Location: Mi Amie, Jumeirah Emirates
Towers, Downtown Dubai
Times: December 24, 8pm to 11pm; afterparty 11pm to 2am
Cost: Soft Dhs525; house Dhs295; house (food + drinks) Dhs625; premium Dhs795
Contact: (04) 319 8567
Moana Seafood Restaurant
Christmas Eve festive night brunch with live stations, fresh seafood, and seasonal specialities, all served in Moana’s signature pagoda-style seating with stunning Palm views.
Cost: House Dhs635; soft beverage package Dhs485; ages 13 to 20 Dhs235; ages 6 to 12 Dhs145
Contact: (04) 455 6677
@sofitelthepalm
Porterhouse Bar & Grill
Christmas Eve four-course dinner featuring the finest cuts of meat and seasonal ingredients, served with a sparkling welcome drink. Enjoy live vocal entertainment by Alexxa Bash.
Location: Porterhouse Bar & Grill, Sofitel, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Times: December 24, 6.30pm to 11pm
Cost: Four-course Dhs455 (includes sparkling welcome drink); wine pairing Dhs200; ages 13 to 20 Dhs235; ages 6 to 12 Dhs175; under 5 complimentary
Contact: (04) 455 6677
@sofitelthepalm
ADSocial
Italian Christmas dinner featuring a five-course festive menu curated by Chef Carmine Faravolo and his Nonna, celebrating soulful recipes passed down through generations. Enjoy the warm ambiance and Italian hospitality for a memorable holiday meal.
Location: Social, Waldorf Astoria Dubai
Palm Jumeirah
Times: December 24 and 25, 6.30pm to 10.30pm
Cost: Dhs550 per person
Contact: (04) 818 2222
The Gourmet Yard
Christmas Eve family-style dinner with live cooking stations and festive highlights. Enjoy roast butternut squash soup with cinnamon and pumpkin spice, glazed turkey with velouté sauce and sage stuffing, and finish with sweet orange honey crème brûlée with double vanilla bean ice cream.
Location: The Gourmet Yard, Embassy Suites by Hilton Dubai Business Bay
Times: December 24, 7pm to 10.30pm
Cost: Soft Dhs199; house Dhs299
Contact: (050) 326 3305
Tutto Passa
A coastal-inspired Italian feast with seasonal Southern Italian flavours. Start with pumpkin tortelloni or seafood fregola, move on to lamb saddle or sea bream al cartoccio, and finish with classic tiramisu and panettone. Perfect for sharing and festive indulgence.
Location: Tutto Passa, Delano Dubai, Bluewater Island
Times: December 24, 7pm to 11pm
Cost: Soft Dhs395; house Dhs495; kids Dhs200; a la carte available
Contact: (04) 556 6255
@tuttopassadubai
Qwerty
Christmas Eve three-course dinner with warm, comforting dishes and a seasonal twist. Guests can choose non-alcoholic options or wine pairings.
Location: Qwerty, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City
Times: December 24, from 6pm onwards
Cost: Dhs175 per person (drinks charged on consumption)
Contact: (052) 144 7437
@qwertydxb
New Year’s Eve
A LA CARTE WITH FESTIVE CHEF’S SPECIALS, WITH A MINIMUM SPEND OF AED 1,500 PP
DECEMBER 25
CHRISTMAS DAY
WORDS: SAMMI BARNARD
Amaseena
Experience a magical open-air Christmas brunch beneath Bedouin-inspired tents. Guests can enjoy a lavish buffet featuring Mediterranean dishes, grilled meats, seafood, and festive desserts, all set to live entertainment. Santa’s visit and kids’ activities make it perfect for families.
Location: Amaseena, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, JBR
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs595; house Dhs695; champagne Dhs895; kids Dhs250
Contact: (04) 318 6150
@ritzcarltondubai
Akira Back
Gather your loved ones for a lively Christmas Brunch at Akira Back. Expect bold flavours, festive beats, live Taiko drumming, and a surprise visit from Santa for a fun family celebration. The menu features the signature sushi platter with the screaming turkey roll, sake sake with salmon sashimi and cream cheese, plus hot favourites including AB Wagyu tacos, miso black cod, and rock shrimp tempura.
Location: Akira Back, Dubai
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs399; house Dhs499; Champagne Dhs599; kids 6 to 12 Dhs199
Contact: (04) 245 5800
Café Belge
Adult Christmas Brunch with a sophisticated mix of served-to-table dishes and a lavish buffet. Guests can enjoy unlimited alcoholic drinks with the house package, or top up for free-flowing Champagne. Live DJ and entertainment set the festive mood. Perfect for adults to celebrate the season in style.
Location: Café Belge, The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC
Times: December 25, 12:30pm to 4pm
Cost: House Dhs550; Champagne top-up Dhs150
Contact: (04) 372 2323
@cafebelgedubai
CÉ LA VI Dubai
Celebrate Christmas high above the city skyline with a special festive set menu at CÉ LA VI. Expect refined dishes, elegant drinks, and incredible Burj Khalifa views. A DJ sets the vibe.
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs450; house Dhs650; bubbly Dhs850; kids 6 to 12 Dhs225
Contact: (04) 376 6290
@nikkibeachdubai
CLAW BBQ
Christmas Day brunch with an American style festive menu offering roasted turkey, comfort sides, live games, DJ entertainment and kids’ activities.
Soak up beachfront bliss this Christmas with Café Nikki’s signature laid-back brunch featuring seafood, roasted meats, salads, and festive desserts. Enjoy live music, a relaxed vibe, and views over the Arabian Gulf. Families can enjoy fun activities and a special visit from Santa.
Location: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
East 14
Cost: Three course set menu from Dhs149 per person
Contact: (04) 230 0054
@clawbbqpalm
Be amongst the first to celebrate Christmas at the world’s tallest hotel, Ciel Dubai
Marina. East 14 presents an unforgettable festive dining experience with Palm Jumeirah and Marina views. Expect an elegant buffet of seasonal favourites, creative cocktails, and live entertainment, all set in a chic new setting perfect for a stylish Christmas celebration.
Location: East 14, Ciel Dubai Marina
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs495; house Dhs695; Champagne Dhs995
Contact: (04) 215 2121
@east14dubai
Garden on 8
Garden on 8 turns into a Christmas playground with live BBQ stations, drink stalls, artificial snow, décor, crackers, gift giveaways, a live drummer, and DJ Leysan on the decks. Dress up in your best Christmas sweaters and enjoy unlimited food and drinks while soaking in festive cheer.
Location: Garden on 8, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City
Times: December 25, 1pm to 5pm (Happy Hour till 8pm)
Cost: Soft Dhs199; house Dhs299; premium Dhs399
Contact: (052) 144 7438
Gohan
On Christmas Day, Gohan presents a refined festive set menu blending Japanese precision with holiday indulgence. The three-course experience features contemporary dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients, balancing freshness and flavour. Guests can expect an elegant atmosphere, perfect for a sophisticated yet intimate celebration.
Location: Gohan, Delano, Dubai
Times: December 25, 7pm to 11pm
Cost: Dhs400 per person (three-course set menu)
Contact: (04) 501 8666 @gohandubai
Jones the Grocer
AD
Gather your loved ones for a heartwarming Christmas brunch at Jones the Grocer with stunning Dubai Marina and sea views. Feast on holiday-inspired dishes while enjoying live festive tunes and a lively atmosphere with an in-house DJ setting the perfect vibe.
Location: Jones the Grocer, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Times: December 25, 1pm to 5pm
Cost: Soft Dhs349; house Dhs499; premium Dhs599; kids 6 to 11 Dhs199; kids 3 to 5 Dhs119
Contact: (04) 230 0073
LARTE
Studio One Hotel offers a cheerful, three-course Christmas Day brunch with unlimited house drinks for adults. Kids can enjoy a scavenger hunt, games, and Christmas movies, while Santa makes a special appearance for festive fun.
Location: LARTE, Studio One Hotel, Dubai Studio City
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Dhs750 for 2 adults + 2 children under 12 (house drinks); under sixes free; individual brunch packages available on request
Contact: (04) 581 6870
McGettigan’s Factory
Get into the holiday vibes with a full-on festive feast at McGettigan’s Christmas Day Brunch. Enjoy pints on tap, live tunes, and Irish merriment.
Location: McGettigan’s Factory – The Palm, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Times: December 25, 12:30pm to 4:30pm
Cost: Soft Dhs399; house Dhs499; premium Dhs599; kids 6 to 11 Dhs239
Contact: (04) 230 0073
Roast by Bubbalicious
This iconic Dubai brunch goes all out for Christmas with an epic festive edition. Expect a lavish buffet spread, carving stations, live entertainment, and endless festive cheer. Perfect for families and groups looking to celebrate in style.
Location: Bubbalicious, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs695; house Dhs895; Champagne Dhs1,095; kids Dhs250
Contact: (04) 399 4141 @bubbaliciousdubai
Available
from December 1st to January 5th
Rockfish
Gather for Christmas by the sea at Rockfish, where Mediterranean seafood meets festive flair. Enjoy dishes like freshly shucked oysters, roasted sea bass, and festive desserts served with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. A live band sets the perfect mood for a relaxed yet luxurious Christmas lunch.
Location: Rockfish, Jumeirah Al Naseem
Times: December 25, 12.30pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs595; house Dhs795; Champagne Dhs995
Contact: (04) 432 3232
@rockfishdubai
Suq
Enjoy festive favourites like roast turkey with all the trimmings, seafood, sushi, and desserts t Suq. Perfect for families, kids will love the dedicated play area and Santa’s special visit, while adults can enjoy live entertainment and free-flowing beverages.
Location: Suq, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs650; house Dhs850; bubbly Dhs1050; children 6 to 12 Dhs325
Contact: (04) 270 7777
@fsdubai
Tasca by José Avillez
Enjoy a Michelin-starred Portugueseinspired Christmas overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Expect signature dishes, seafood, and a lively yet refined atmosphere with festive flair.
ADLocation: Tasca by José Avillez, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai Times: December 25, 12.30pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs750; house Dhs950; Champagne Dhs1,250
Contact: (04) 777 2231
@tascabymoj
The Restaurant
Toast to Christmas at The Restaurant’s Holly Jolly Brunch, set against a stunning beach backdrop. Guests can indulge in a spread of festive dishes, live stations, and signature beverages, accompanied by live entertainment. Families will enjoy the joyful ambience, complete with special treats for children and a visit from Santa.
Location: The Restaurant, Address Beach Resort Times: December 25, 1pm to 5pm
Cost: Soft Dhs755; house Dhs955; premium Dhs1,055; Champagne Dhs1,255; kids 6 to 12 50% off
Contact: (04) 879 8866 @addressbeachresort
The Coterie
The Coterie offers festive fun with a threecourse Christmas lunch or hearty roast supper. Kids enjoy a two-course menu, Santa’s Grotto, bouncy castle, live singers, and DJs. Guests in Christmas jumpers or Santa hats receive a free glass of mulled wine.
Location: The Coterie, Level 2, P6 Car Park, Ibn Battuta Mall Times: December 25, from 12pm
Cost: Three-course menu Dhs345; twocourse kids menu Dhs125 (up to 12 yrs); drinks package for two hours Dhs230pp/ three hours Dhs300pp; after party Dhs250pp
Contact: (058) 566 4240
The Dubliner’s
Celebrate with roasts, Guinness dishes, and live entertainment from Martin & Jo, ideal for families wanting a Irish style Christmas.
Location: The Dubliner’s Times: December 25, 12pm to 6pm
Cost: Soft Dhs220; standard Dhs340; premium Dhs410; kids Dhs125
Contact: (04) 702 2455
The Maine Land Brasserie
Enjoy Christmas Day in style with a festive feast of oysters, roasts, and signature dishes served in a sophisticated brasserie setting. Expect live jazz, elegant décor, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Location: The Maine Land Brasserie, The Opus, Business Bay Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs495; house Dhs695; premium Dhs895
Contact: (04) 564 8899 @themaineblb
OPA’S FESTIVE SEASON BRINGS BIG GREEK ENERGY TO DUBAI
LIVE SHOWS, DANCING, AND A TASTE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN AT FAIRMONT DUBAI
There are many places to have dinner in Dubai. There are far fewer places where dinner turns into a story you retell for the rest of the season. OPA Dubai has built its reputation on that difference. Tucked inside Fairmont Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road, this is a venue that feels alive from the moment you step in. Blue-and-white details, warm lighting, bougainvillea touches, and the hum of a crowd that did not come out to sit quietly. As the festive season arrives, OPA turns up every part of that experience.
From 7pm to 2am, every night runs on a steady rhythm of generous Greek dishes, expressive service and signature OPA theatre. Plates land with colour and comfort: mezze to share, fresh salads, grilled seafood, skewers, slow-cooked favourites and flaky pastries that demand a second spoon. It is food that invites you to linger, to pass dishes around, and to treat the table like the centre of the evening rather than a pause between plans.
Then there is the energy that made OPA famous. As the night unfolds, live performers and dancers fill the space with Greek spirit, music swells, napkins twirl, and there are moments where the whole room feels like one big table. The line-up features regular appearances from much-loved performers including Paraskevas and dancers, Ntinos, and
Katerina and Minas, with a rotating schedule that keeps the atmosphere fresh while staying faithful to the Athens-meets-Dubai mood guests come back for.
For those planning ahead, OPA is also preparing a special Christmas set menu for the holidays, created for groups who want all the flavour and theatre of an OPA night with a festive twist. Think long tables, shared plates, storytelling dishes and an atmosphere that feels more like a celebration than a formality. Guests can enquire on pricing and details when reserving, making it an easy choice for endof-year gatherings, office celebrations or family dinners with personality.
OPA’s story now stretches beyond Dubai, with outposts in destinations such as Bodrum, Saint-Tropez, Doha, Bahrain and Mumbai, but the flagship spirit remains firmly rooted here. It is a place for late nights, milestone moments, visiting friends, and anyone looking for a dinner that does not fade the second you step outside.
If your festive calendar calls for somewhere with flavour, theatre and a guaranteed good time, OPA Dubai is ready.
Location: Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road
Opening Times: Daily, 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Website: www.opadubai.com
Méridien Village Terrace & Warehouse
Enjoy international flavours, live music, and family fun at the Village and Beer Garden with carol singers and a Santa visit.
Location: Méridien Village Terrace & Warehouse
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs399; standard Dhs529; premium Dhs699; kids Dhs165
Contact: (04) 702 2455
Mama Zonia
Step into the jungle for a tropical Christmas celebration at Mama Zonia. The lively brunch includes bold flavours, free-flowing drinks, and electric entertainment with dancers and DJs.
Expect festive twists on signature dishes and an atmosphere that brings the Amazon to the Marina.
Location: Mama Zonia, Pier 7, Dubai Marina
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs450; house Dhs650; Champagne Dhs950
Contact: (04) 240 4747
@mamazoniadubai
Vera Versilia
Christmas Day brunch with a festive buffet featuring a wide selection of holiday favourites, seasonal dishes, and indulgent desserts. Guests can enjoy live entertainment while little ones are entertained with fun activities. Toast the occasion with soft, house, or premium bubbly beverage packages.
Location: Vera, Kempinski MOE Hotel
Times: December 25, 12pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs450; house Dhs595; premium Dhs795; children 6 to 12 Dhs295; under sixes free
Contact: (04) 409 5111
@verakempinski
White Beach
Celebrate Christmas beachfront style with a lively brunch at White Beach, featuring festive roasts, seafood, live stations, and seasonal cocktails. Families can enjoy live entertainment, kids’ activities, and Santa’s visit for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Location: White Beach, W Dubai – The Palm
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs495; house Dhs695; Champagne Dhs995; kids Dhs250
Contact: (04) 245 5800
@w_dubai
ZETA Seventy Seven
Christmas Day brunch with stunning skyline views and the city’s highest infinity pool. Enjoy a gourmet buffet with free-flowing beverages and sangrias, live entertainment, and festive energy. Guests can also book sunken lounges or private cabanas for a premium experience.
Times: December 25, 1pm to 4.30pm; 5pm to 8.30pm; 9pm to 12.30am
Cost: Dhs977 (open house beverages & sangrias); Dhs1,777 per couple; Dhs2,777 Sunken Upgrade; Dhs2,777 Cabana Upgrade
Contact: (04) 879 8866
@addressbeachresortdubai
Zuma
Dine in style this Christmas Day at Zuma with a contemporary Japanese brunch featuring a three-course festive menu. Guests enjoy sushi, sashimi, grilled dishes, and desserts in an energetic, stylish setting. Live music and seasonal cocktails complete the experience, perfect for adults and families alike.
Location: Zuma, DIFC
Times: December 25, 12.30pm to 4pm
Cost: Soft Dhs450; house Dhs650; Champagne Dhs850; kids Dhs250
Contact: (04) 425 9888
@zumadubai
UNWRAP A CULINARY CELEBRATION
Celebrate Christmas Day with an extravagant brunch featuring festive roasts, indulgent seafood, decadent desserts and family-style cheer. A joyful gathering designed for laughter, delight and magical moments. Meet Santa, enjoy live music and join fun children’s activities at the Kids Club.
25 December | 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
BOXING DAY IN DUBAI
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
Boardwalk
For a touch of comfort, make reservations for Nonna’s lunch where you will get comforting Italian-inspired dishes in a breezy Creekside setting. Live entertainment adds to the laid-back atmosphere allowing you to unwind and hear all the stories from Christmas Day from your loved ones.
Location: Boardwalk, Dubai Creek Resort, Port Saeed
Date/Time: 12pm to 4pm on December 26
Costs: Dhs295 soft; Dhs395 house
Contact: (04) 602 1583
@boardwalkdubai
BOTA Café
Looking to enjoy a post-Christmas refresh? Do it poolside at BOTA Café at Emirates Golf Club. You can reset with fresh flavours with sushi, cool drinks and laid-back atmosphere backed by sunshine and smiles by the water.
Location: BOTA Café, Emirates Golf Club, Al Thanyah 3, Dubai
Date/Time: 6pm on December 26
Costs: From Dhs199 per person
Contact: (04) 586 7769
@bota.dubai
Graze Gastro Grill & Bar
While not technically Boxing Day per se, on December 28, ladies can keep the festive spirit live with Graze’s Boxing Day Ladies Night. Your night will include a three-course set menu for Dhs120, which you can enhance with two hours of freeflowing rosé for an additional Dhs80. The night’s vibes will be backed by DJ Yana spinning nostalgic ‘80s and ‘90s hits.
Location: Graze Gastro Grill & Bar, La Ville Hotel and Suites, City Walk, Dubai
Date/Time: 8pm to 10pm on December 28
Costs: From Dhs120 per person
Contact: (04) 403 3111 @grazedubai
Horse & Hound
Hillhouse Brasserie
The Festive Plate returns to the Hillhouse Brasserie with a classic bronzed roast turkey, all the traditional trimmings and seasonal cocktails available throughout the day.
Add a touch of elegance to your Boxing Day and unwind with a magical brunch at Le Jardin in Raffles the Palm with an array of international dishes and live performances.
Location: Raffles the Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Date/Time: 1pm to 4pm on December 26
Costs: Packages from Dhs395 per person; children under six free Contact: (04) 248 8888 @ejardin
This Boxing Day, it’s all about comfort food at Horse & Hound at Al Habtoor Polo Club. On offer is the Recovery Day Roast with a spread of juicy roast meats, classic sides and indulgent desserts, all served with warm mulled wine.
Location: Horse & Hound, Al Habtoor Polo Club, Wadi Al Safa 5, Dubai
Ease back into normal life at MYAMI’s laid-back Boxing Day brunch. Enjoy classics like eggs Benedict, avocado toast, pancakes, and light bites – perfect for a relaxed recovery after the celebrations. With free-flowing mimosas, chill tunes, and sunshine vibes, it’s the ultimate postparty unwind.
Location: MYAMI, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Date/Time: 11am to 3pm (two-hour package) on December 26; alcohol from 12pm
Costs: Dhs149 soft; Dhs295 house; under fives dine for free
Celebrate Boxing Day by the sea and a three-course set menu from the chefs of Seagrill Bistro. Sit back, relax and enjoy the live entertainment and free-flowing drinks, all in a chic Mediterranean setting.
Location: Seagrill Bistro, Fairmont the Palm, Palm Jumeirah
Date/Time: 12.30pm to 4pm on December 26
Costs: Dhs275 soft, Dhs375 house; children six to 12 Dhs175
Contact: (04) 457 3457 @fairmonthepalm
The Croft
Post Christmas Day, gather with loved ones for a hearty British feast featuring succulent cuts, crispy golden roasties, and fluffy Yorkshire puddings for a comforting and indulgent post-Christmas treat.
There’s live entertainment from 7pm, too.
Location: The Croft, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina
Date/Time: 12.30pm to 11pm on December 26
Costs: Dhs150 (food only)
Contact: (04) 319 4000 @croftdubai
Topgolf Dubai
One of Dubai’s top attractions is keeping the fun going post-Christmas Day with a Boxing Day bash at Toad in the Hole. There’s two hours of festive flavours paired with free-flowing drinks, a round of Topgolf, party games, live DJ beats and non-stop cheer.
Location: Toad in the Hole, Topgolf Dubai, Emirates Golf Club
Date/Time: 1pm to 4pm on December 26
Costs: Dhs299 soft; Dhs429 house; Dhs499 premium; Dhs1099 Champagne; Dhs199 per child over six Contact: (04) 371 9999 @topgolfdubai
The Bolt Hole Indulge in roast turkey breast and all the trimmings, including roast potatoes, glazed carrots, Brussels sprouts, red cabbage, rich gravy and cranberry sauce at The Bolt Hole. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming and just what you need if you want to extend the magic of Christmas.
Location: The Bolt Hole, Villa Nova Dubai
Date/Time: 3pm to 10.30pm on December 26
Costs: Dhs135 per person
Contact: (800) 666 353 @theboltholedubai
The Duck Hook
Keep the Christmas spirit alive this Boxing Day at The Duck Hook with its indulgent Christmas Plate, featuring turkey breast, roulade, veal pigs in blankets, and all your favourite trimmings. A relaxed, delicious way to spend the day with friends and family.
Location: The Duck Hook, Dubai Hills Golf Club
Date/Time: 12pm onwards on 26
December 2025
Costs: Dhs135 per person
Contact: (800) 666 353 @theduckhookdubai
The Bolt Hole
Topgolf Dubai
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
IN THE UAE
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
Fort Island transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland this festive season with an immersive market, a 36-foot Christmas tree, and a live band playing seasonal tunes. You can also go on the North Pole train ride, throw a snowball at the snow fight zone, get your thrills by bungee jumping or take a spin on the Venetian carousel. Best of all, it’s free entry.
Location: Fort Island, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Date/Time: December 6 to 31, Mon to Thurs 3pm until late; Fri to Sun 12pm until late
Cost: Free entry
Contact: jumeirah.com; @madinatjumeirah
Winter City at Expo City
Winter City returns to Al Wasl Plaza at Expo City Dubai telling the story of the Candy Cane Comet – a guiding light that shines only with the help of children. There will be activities, a signature market and workshops, plus live entertainment and seasonal dishes. A tree lighting ceremony takes place every evening adding to the festive cheer.
Location: Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai
When: December 6 to 31, from 4pm
Cost: Dhs50, under threes free
Contact: expocitydubai.com; @expocitydubai
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
Barkfest by Feastival at Barasti Beach
Barkfest by Feastival is bringing its dog-friendly celebration to the shores of Dubai for the very first time. Expect sunshine, sand and seasonal spirit. In short, one paw-fect day by the sea. There will be a visit from Santa, carol singers, a Christmas tree lighting, dog show, and even snow. Browse through stalls to find an amazing Christmas gift. And yes, your pup can even enjoy a dip in the sea. For kids, there’s a play area and the whole family can enjoy a full a la carte menu packed with treats. Make sure you read all the terms and conditions before you purchase your tickets on Platinumlist.
Location: Barasti Beach, Le Meridien Mina Syahi Beach Resort & Marina
Date/Time: December 13, from 1pm
Costs: Pre-booking Dhs20, on the day Dhs30; free entry children up to 12 and pets
Contact: bark-fest.com; @dubaifeastival
Winter Wonderland at Ski Dubai
You can’t get any closer to winter vibes than Ski Dubai and, thankfully, its magical winter wonderland returns this December. The destination will get a makeover with festive décor alongside plenty of activities and warm treats including a hot chocolate. There’s even the chance to meet and greet Santa, and enjoy the snow park’s activities.
Location: Mall of the Emirates
Date/Time: December 1 to 25
Costs: From Dhs160
Contact: skidxb.com; @skidubai
Winter District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Winter District is setting up once again at Jumeirah Emirates Towers. Visitors can enjoy fun food concepts, plenty of kids’ activities including Santa’s grotto, inflatables and a huge Christmas tree. Additionally, there will be games, workshops, an escape room, plus live entertainment.
Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers
When: December 13 to 28
Contact: winterdistrict.com; @winterdistrict3
Winter Wonderland at Festival Bay
Over the festive season, the waterfront district of Dubai Festival City Mall transforms into a lively winter escape. Families will be able to explore the market, join creative workshops, play games and take photos among glowing light trails.
Location: Festival Bay, outside Dubai Festival City Mall by the waterfront, Dubai
Date/Time: Throughout December
Costs: Free
Contact: @dubaifestivalcitymall
TO BOOK IN DUBAI FESTIVE PERFORMANCES
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
The Great Christmas Elf Bake Off
This December, Theatre by QE2 is hosting a family-friendly interactive show perfect for kids aged three to 11. The Great Christmas Elf Bake Off puts a seasonal twist on the treasured TV show where two elves compete in a gingerbread bake-off filled with songs, comedy, and plenty of festive chaos.
Location: Theatre by QE2, The QE2, Port Rashid, Dubai
Date/Times: December 6 and 7, 11am and 3pm
Costs: Dhs75
Contact: (058) 838 3107; @theatrebyqe2
Magic Phil’s Christmas Cracker
This Christmas, see the UAE’s favourite family-friendly entertainer, Magic Phil, at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel Theatre for his Christmas Cracker Show. The one-man show is packed with magic, mayhem, and merry mischief – and your little ones are sure to love it.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Hotel Theatre, Umm Suqeim, Dubai
Date/Time: December 12, 4.30pm; December 13 and 14, 10.30am and 2.30pm
Costs: Prices from Dhs110
Contact: (04) 348 0000; @jumeirahbeachhotel
Nutcracker
Complete your Christmas with the timeless magic of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. This magical tale is cherished around the world and is one filled with enchantment, childhood dreams and love. Accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score and paired with dazzling choreography, this is a heartwarming Christmas experience for the whole family.
Location: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Date/Time: December 18 and 19, 8pm; December 20 and 21, 2pm and 8pm
Costs: Prices from Dhs380
Contact: (04) 440 8888; dubaiopera.com
Carols Re-Imagined
Enjoy an evening where timeless Christmas carols are reimagined with warmth, power, and passion. Singers from around the world will come together with the Nabra Chamber Choir and a lineup of world-class musicians on the day to unite cultures and voices in music. Prices from Dhs200.
Location: Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Date/Time: December 19, 8pm
Costs: Prices from Dhs200
Contact: (056) 611 2719; @artforalluae
A Fairytale for Christmas
Fairytale brings timeless stories to life on stage, complete with stunning costumes and a dazzling stage design. It’s a show for audiences of all ages so you can bring the little ones.
Location: The New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
Date/Time: December 19, 7pm; December 20 and 21, 1.30pm and 7pm
Costs: Prices from Dhs195
Contact: (04) 296 6205; @coventgardenmarketdxb
Carols by Candlelight at Expo City
Get ready to belt out your festive favourites as the much-loved Carols by Candlelight returns to Expo City this December. Expect enchanting performances by the Firdaus Orchestra, uplifting carol-singing, dancers, and magical Christmas projections illuminating the iconic Al Wasl Plaza. You might even spot Santa and Mrs Claus making a surprise appearance. And the best part? Your ticket also grants you access to Expo’s Winter City.
Location: Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai, Dubai
Date/Time: December 20 to 24, 6pm to 7.35pm
Costs: Dhs150
Contact: (800) 3976 2489; @expocitydubai
ABBA Reunion - A Christmas Special Live
The timeless tunes of ABBA never get old. And this December, ABBA Reunion will be treating you to the golden age of pop sprinkled with festive sparkle and holiday cheer onboard the QE2. Expect all the timeless classics, stunning live vocals, glittering costumes and fun choreography. It’s a night for both lifelong fans and those just looking for a good night out.
Location: Theatre by QE2, The QE2, Port Rashid, Dubai
Date/Time: December 27, 8pm
Costs: Prices from Dhs127.50
Contact: (058) 838 3107; @theatrebyqe2
FESTIVE AT HOME
HOW TO HOST THE PERFECT WINTER DINNER IN DUBAI
WORDS: LANA DU
December in Dubai usually means beachy brunches and over-the-top festive dinners – the kind the city does best. Getting dolled up for an evening out is a vibe, but sometimes staying in feels... cosier.
Whether you celebrate the season properly or just love an excuse to gather everyone at home, hosting a winter dinner in Dubai can be simple: a few thoughtful touches, great food (ordered or homemade – no judgment), and small details that make the evening feel warm and festive. If you’re planning a cosy night in this year, here’s how to do it.
Set the scene
Start with the atmosphere. Soft lighting is everything – think fairy lights, candles, or lanterns – to give your home a warm, inviting glow. A small Christmas tree or a festive centrepiece instantly sets the seasonal mood, while touches like pinecones, sprigs of rosemary, or metallic accents add that extra sparkle. Background music, from jazzy classics to mellow festive tunes, can also elevate the vibe without taking over the conversation.
Food & drinks
Touches that sparkle
Small details make a festive dinner truly special. Choose elegant tableware and seasonal napkins. Little touches, like seasonal scented candles – think cinnamon, pine, or vanilla – make the evening feel intimate and warm. Try Marks & Spencer or Home Centre for lots of festive options. @marksandspencerme
Interactive fun
If you want to add a playful touch to your festive evening, there are plenty of interactive options to keep guests entertained. Consider hiring a Santa Claus to surprise the little ones (or adults who still love the magic of the season), or a live illustrator to create quick, personalised drawings for your guests. Scarlett Entertainment offers professional Santas, while Bella Entertainment provides talented artists who can create quick, personalised portraits for your guests.
@scarlett_entertainment
The menu is the heart of the evening. For ease, mix simple homemade dishes with a few store-bought or catered options. Think comforting mains like roasted meats, wintery vegetables, or festive pasta dishes. Add shareable appetisers – cheeses, dips, and finger foods – so guests can nibble while mingling. For a touch of five-star flair at home, Sofitel Dubai, The Palm offers handcrafted gourmet boxes, with boneless roast turkey options or a whole turkey for Dhs795, all accompanied by appetisers, sides, and dessert. For drinks, a signature cocktail or mulled wine adds a fun, seasonal touch, or source wines from Le Clos for an effortlessly festive selection. Where: Sofitel Dubai The Palm Cost: Dhs479 to Dhs1,479 (boneless roast turkey), Dhs795 (whole turkey) Orders: (04) 455 6677 or email dining.palmdubai@sofitel.com
RING IN THE NEW YEAR AT NINIVE BEACH
Double fireworks views, lively entertainment, and festive flavours create a night to remember
THE FESTIVE GIFT EDIT FOR EVERY PERSONALITY
Think of it as gifts that say “I get you”
WORDS: LANA DU
You know that feeling when someone gives you something and you’re like – wow, they really know me? That’s the goal this year. Skip the random candles and last-minute vouchers; start with who they are. From the scent collector to the sentimental soul, finding the right gift gets way easier when it matches their vibe (and they’ll actually use it). Here’s some inspo for your festive gift shopping in Dubai this season.
Multicolour summer picnic scarf, Dhs400, available on farmrio.ae
The style curator
For the person who treats fashion like self-expression. Their outfits tell stories and their accessories have personality.
Le Specs Outta Love sunglasses, Dhs260, available on levelshoes.com ,
The sentimental soul
For the one who values memories over material things.
Customised painting, price upon request, available in dubaicustomartworks.com
Holiday Cheers French Bulldog decoration object, Dhs485, available on Swarovski.ae
Luv Aj The Formentera Bangles, set of 3 Dhs400, available on ounass.ae
Jacquemus The Spiaggia Round Bag, Dhs2,750, available on jacquemus.ae
Sagittarius zodiac sign plaque necklace, Dhs450, available on maje.ae
Birthstone bracelet, Rhodium plated, Dhs440, available on swarovski.ae
The jetsetter
For the friend who’s constantly between flights (or planning the next one).
Bale bag travel neck pillow beige, Dhs199, available on linkstore.ae
The Zen master
For the one who’s into balance, rituals, and all things self-care. Their vibe: calm and glowing inside and out.
Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones, Dhs179, available on sonyworld.ae
essential oil
(candle burner), Dhs349, available on aromatierra.com
The design lover
Their eye for detail is unmatched, everything they own feels intentional.
on thatconceptstore.com
Odyssey, travertine stone
diffuser
Talise Spa, 90min muscle recovery massage, Dhs1,100, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
Gel manicure mini travel kit, Dhs190, available on sephora.me
Alo lightweight warrior mat, Dhs595 and uplifting yoga block, Dhs130, available on aloyoga.ae
Elsa large glass tealight candle holder, Dhs85, available on crateandbarrel.me
Shani wool and cashmere scarf light brown, Dhs350, available on sandro.ae
Assouline Dubai Wonder, Dhs 420, available
The beauty queen
Obsessed with serums, palettes, and anything that adds radiance, with a passion for exploring new trends and upgrading every routine.
Calendar, Dhs295, available on sephora.me
The foodie friend
Every plan revolves around what to eat next – loves dining out as much as cooking in and all things foodie-related.
Forza Italia gift hamper, Dhs1,100, available on jonesthegrocer.com
Octavia small marble serving board with cheese knives, Dhs89.95, available in crateandbarrel.com
Yves Saint Laurent libre gold set + mini rouge pur couture nude muse perfume set (90ml + 10ml), Dhs625, available on faces.ae
Gisou on-the-go honey hair trio, Dhs230, available on sephora.me
Huda Beauty glossiest gloss trio, Dhs142, available on hudabeauty.com
The homebody
Soft lighting, good coffee, and cancelling plans – their love language.
Spice Deluxe Collection Dhs286, available on thespicehouse.com , Bayle throw blanket, Dhs274, available on revolve.com
Assorted chocolate seasons greetings gift 20pc, Dhs140, available on lesbonbons.com
Mid-century wood lantern, Dhs474, available on westelm.ae
The White Company jersey satin trim robe, Dhs410, available on bloomingdales.ae , Dhs410
Sun, sand, and sea, winter in Dubai means it’s time to hit the beach
Dubai’s glorious winter weather is officially here, and there’s no better way to make the most of it than with a day by the sea. Whether you’re after a lively beach with buzzing cafés and water sports, a quiet stretch of sand for some downtime, or a spot to stroll with your four-legged friend, Dubai’s coastline has it all. Grab your sunscreen, pack a towel, and get ready to make the most of those perfect blue-sky days.
JBR Beach
If you like your beach days busy and buzzing, JBR Beach is the place to be. The vibe is upbeat, the promenade is packed with restaurants and cafés, and there’s always something going on. Families can enjoy playgrounds and the inflatable Aqua Park, while thrill-seekers can try parasailing or jet skiing. Once you’ve soaked up the sun, grab a bite at Eggspectation or Catch22, both just steps from the sand. Stay until sunset for stunning views of Ain Dubai lighting up the skyline.
Active, social, and full of life, Kite Beach is where fitness lovers, foodies, and families all meet. Try your hand at paddleboarding or kite surfing, grab a smoothie from Tropical or perhaps you fancy a volleyball or padel game? Then take a walk along the running track and you’ll find courts along the way towards Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. For something more indulgent, track down Salt’s famous sliders and enjoy them with your toes in the sand.
Location: Behind Umm Suqeim 1
WORDS: SAMMI BARNARD
Sunset Beach
If your perfect beach day involves peace, soft sand, and postcard-perfect views, this one’s for you. Also known as Public Beach, this wide, open stretch is calm and familyfriendly. Surfers ride the waves early in the morning, while others simply relax and watch the sun dip behind the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. Pack a picnic, take a book, and don’t miss that magical golden hour.
Location: Next to Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
Jebel Ali Public Beach
Dubai Islands Beach
For something more low-key, head south to Jebel Ali Public Beach. It’s quieter than most Dubai beaches, which makes it perfect for a peaceful escape. Bring your own snacks or check out the occasional food trucks for a coffee or ice cream. It’s also a great spot for paddleboarding or a simple seaside walk. Just you, the sound of the waves, and endless blue.
Location: Mina Jebel Ali
A newer addition to Dubai’s beach scene, Dubai Islands Beach has fast become a favourite for dog owners and families. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with calm waters and soft sand ideal for swimming or long walks. After a stroll with your pup, grab a coffee from Starbucks nearby and treat them to a pup cup. The views of old Dubai from the shore give it a completely different vibe from the city’s more glitzy coastline.
Location: Dubai Islands
Mercato Beach
This hidden gem offers all the nostalgic beach-day feels. Think sandcastle building, shell collecting, and paddling in the shallows. It’s quieter than JBR or Kite Beach, making it perfect for families or anyone after a laid-back afternoon by the sea. Once you’ve had your fill of sun, head to Mercato Mall for a scoop of gelato, or wander to 3Fils at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour for some of the best sushi in town.
Location: 13A Street, Jumeirah 2
EAT | DRINK
TOP RESTAURANTS OF 2025
Dubai welcomed a stellar class of restaurants in 2025, and these are the ones
that won the What’s On team over
Liam Joyce, Editor
Some restaurants simply feed you. Manao on the other hand, folds you into its world. I walked in on an ordinary weeknight and left plotting who I could bring back next. It opened in December 2024, but it is new to me, and in a year of very good dinners this was the one that felt special from the first warm greeting to the last polished detail.
The set up is simple, a compact room, chefs within touching distance, a seasonal tasting menu that moves with the market, and a non-alcoholic pairing that feels considered rather than obligatory. The craft is Thai at its core with light and clever detours. Heat is handled with restraint and acidity is bright but never sharp. Flavours stack quietly until they
SANA, JUMEIRAH MINA AL SALAM
Madie
Murphy, Deputy Editor
For my Restaurant of the Year I have chosen a place where East meets West, in the best way possible.
Sitting on the edge of the serene blue waters of Madinat Jumeirah, SANA is Dubai’s newest Uzbek dining destination inspired by the historic Silk Road, where rich culture, craftsmanship, and bold flavours meet. Brought to life by BIK Hospitality Group, who are the minds behind names you might recognise like African Queen and Cutfish, SANA
reimagines the legendary Uzbekistan Restaurant Moscow for Dubai’s cosmopolitan crowd. The restaurant is full of earthy palettes, muted tones and woven textures and it creates a warm atmosphere for those dining.
The food is comforting and hearty, many of it heritage dishes with a modern twist. If you’re a lamb lover you’ll have plenty choice in dishes that will tickle your fancy. The braised leg of lamb for sharing is a great option for those with a plus one. The bar menu mirrors the East-meets-West spirit, think vodka-based twists, herbaceous spritzes, and tea-infused creations.
There is even a secret lounge tucked within the restaurant, MOON by SANA will keep you there long after dessert.
For the best experience, grab a seat on the terrace and enjoy the serene waters
sing. There were dishes I still think about. A clear, fragrant broth that held the soul of tom yum without the noise and a salad that looked like a garden and ate like a memory of Bangkok at dusk. Dessert arrived as a playful nod to mango and sticky rice, reworked with finesse and none of the usual heaviness.
Service is the other headline. Calm, warm and present. The team explains without lecturing and reads the table perfectly. I never reached for water. I never wondered where the next course had gone and timing was a metronome.
Dubai does drama very well. Manao does intimacy, balance and confidence. That is why it is my pick for favourite new restaurant of 2025.
Location: Manao, Wasl Vita Jumeirah 1
Times: Tues to Sat, 7pm to 11pm
Contact: @manao_dubai
with the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab towering behind you.
Location: SANA, Jumeirah Mina Al Salam Times: Daily, 12pm to 2am Contact: @sana_restaurantdxb
REVOLVER
Aarti
Saundalkar, Arts & Culture Features Editor
If you’re in Dubai and enjoy bold, adventurous dining, Revolver is a musttry. Originally from Singapore and led by Michelinexperienced Chef Jitin Joshi, it serves South Asian cuisine with fire, flair, and a contemporary twist. What’s On was invited for an early look at the restaurant, and after tasting the menu for the first time, I was instantly hooked – so much so that I claimed the review for our monthly magazine. And I wasn’t disappointed. My evening, mirroring the excitement of the shoot day, was bursting with flavour from the very first bite. The menu, a clever fusion of modern and traditional tastes, kept us deliberating over what to order, each dish growing more intense and satisfying as it arrived at the table. While the food itself was a highlight, the service truly elevated the experience. Our waitress guided us expertly through the menu, sharing insights and little stories that brought warmth and personality to the evening. Oh, and the interiors? Equally impressive blending
JULITH COFFEE & ROASTERY
Sammi Barnard, Junior Reporter
Julith Coffee & Roastery - the homegrown roastery, brew lounge, omakase spot, and social hub that landed in Al Quoz this July and has already become the place everyone’s talking about.
Julith takes Dubai’s coffee culture and gives it a seriously elevated twist without ever losing that laid-back, neighbourhood feel. The vibe is calming, with a peaceful atmosphere for Al Quoz, and a cherry blossom tree in the centre that somehow
industrial-chic with subtle theatrics. In short, Revolver delivers a fully immersive dining experience, where every dish surprises and delights. From playful starters to dramatic mains and a perfectly satisfying finale, it’s a fiery, unforgettable journey for anyone who loves South Asian flavours executed with creativity, precision, and passion.
Location: Revolver, The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay Times: Mon to Sat, 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 12.30am
Contact: @revolver_dubai
ILIANA
Lana Du, Reporter
ties it all together. Whether you’re there to work, switch off, or linger over a long coffee, the space just works. You’ll also find private little work cabins upstairs, perfect for deep-focus days or just hiding from the world for an hour.
Their cherry-flavoured coffee is especially worth the detour - bright, fruity, and genuinely unlike anything else. And if you’re popping in for breakfast, the shakshouka is an absolute must, it’s hearty, and just the kind of dish that makes you want to linger. Service leans casual and friendly.
Location: Julith, Al Quoz
Times: Daily, 7am to 8pm
Contact: (055) 585
4849
@julith.coffee
If you’re in Dubai and into Greek food, chances are you’ve tried a spot or two. Anyone from Greece will tell you proper Greek food is simple, generous, and all about quality ingredients. My favourite new restaurant in Dubai this year that does exactly that. Iliana, set at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab with a chic rooftop, Chef Andreas Gkipalis brings his Greek heritage to every dish, creating Mykonian-inspired plates made with simple, highquality ingredients. Inside, it’s elegant yet relaxed; outside, the terrace frames the sea and Burj Al Arab, with soft textures, clean lines, and warm natural light making it feel airy and inviting, perfect for a long lunch, a relaxed dinner, or sunset drinks with friends. The menu opens with Greek classics like freshly baked pita and dips you keep reaching for, followed by cold and hot appetisers from salads to raw seafood. For mains, there’s a fish market where the catch of the day is cooked your way, alongside meats, pastas, and orzo dishes. Service is attentive and passionate, with the team sharing little stories about dishes that feel just like home.
Location: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Umm Suqeim 3
Times: Daily, 12pm to 12am
Contact: @ilianadubai
INA
If INA has been on your radar, keep reading…
The Spot
Set along J1 Beach, INA Dubai brings together food, culture, and nightlife in a way that feels current. Part restaurant, part lounge, it’s fully alive. The mix of open-fire seasonal flame grilled cooking, live music, and interiors that flow from intimate dining to a lively lounge captures exactly what Dubai does best – dining that turns into a night out.
The Vibe
The setting balances laid-back and dramatic. Warm tones of burnt orange and deep red meet layers of greenery and soft lighting that flatters everything (and everyone). It’s the kind of place where taking photos feels like a proper shoot. Handcrafted woodwork, rich textures, and a retractable roof give the room a sense of movement. The night we went, a DJ spinning Afro house beats, a drummer, and dancers in feathery costumes kept the space buzzing from start to finish.
The Food and Drinks
INA Dubai’s menu, created by Chef Glen
❑ Tomato carpaccio with green herb puree
Ballis focuses on open-fire cooking and high-quality ingredients. Seafood and steaks take centre stage, with plenty for vegetable lovers too, from char-grilled seasonal veg to lighter, ingredient-led appetisers. For meat and seafood fans, selections include premium tender steaks, whole fish, and flame-grilled cuts, complemented beautifully by subtly seasoned vegetables.
Drinks range from world-class wines that suit the menu to inventive cocktails for those just there for the vibe. There’s something for everyone, whether a glass of wine with steak or a lighter cocktail alongside seafood and veg.
The Service
Knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly. The team knows the menu inside out, offering personal recommendations. Everything arrived at a relaxed pace, while making sure we were looked after throughout the evening.
What to Order
❑ Tuna tartare with truffle and potato gratin
❑ Westholme beef carpaccio, caviar, green dressing
❑ Grilled medjool date with Wagyu ham and manouri cheese
❑ Barbecued calamari with tomato vinaigrette
❑ Char-grilled asparagus with whipped ricotta
❑ Westholme striploin (there are plenty of other steak options, too)
What’s On the Bill
Expect to spend around Dhs 1,100 to 1,500 for two or three people if you go for the full line-up of appetisers, mains, and drinks.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
We loved the energy, the interior, and how the space gets groovy at night. Would we go back? Absolutely – partly for the food, but mostly for the atmosphere, live music, and, of course, the photos. The grilled dishes are smoky, juicy, and satisfying without feeling heavy, making it a standout spot in Dubai.
Location: J1 Beach, 71A St, Jumeirah 1 Times: Monday to Thursday 6.30pm to 1am; Friday & Saturday 6.30pm to 2am; Sunday 6.30pm to 1am
Contact: (04) 570 4766 @ina.dubai
Festive Fun? Say No More!
This festive season hits different when you’re at UBK. Good food, festive sips, and the kind of vibes you can’t fake. Come through and make the season count.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
HONEYCOMB HI-FI
Vinyl, soul, and very good energy
While catching up with friends recently, one of them casually said, “Honeycomb Hi Fi is the best bar in Dubai.” That’s a statement in a city full of favourites, where it’s impossible to pick just one, but after revisiting, it’s easy to see why. Though not new on the scene, Honeycomb Hi Fi is still a one-of-akind spot in the city, with something cool happening every month.
The Pour Point
Though Honeycomb Hi-Fi carries speakeasy vibes, it’s already a favourite in Dubai while keeping that ‘if you know, you know’ energy. Created by VKD Hospitality, known for some of the city’s most innovative concepts, Honeycomb Hi-Fi is a vinyl-listening bar that pairs high-fidelity sound with an Izakaya-style kitchen. You enter through what feels like a record store, browse rare vinyl, then move into “The Listening Room,” where a custom speaker system by Devon Turnbull sets the tone.
The Scene
The energy isn’t clubby or loud; it’s refined and chill, for people who love music and just want to chair dance to upbeat sounds while sipping cocktails. Quietly cool, retro-inspired with a modern edge, the space feels like a secret bar in Europe or a friend’s stylish, music-obsessed living room. The crowd is laid-back – friends, dates, or even solo at the bar.
The Sips
Drinks at Honeycomb Hi Fi hit that sweet spot, inventive yet light, with each cocktail carrying its own vibe. From High Note and Sakura Tonic to Green Velvet and Stolen Time, crafted with whisky, gin, sake, and Japanese liqueurs. For anyone sticking to the classics, there’s wine, beer, sake, shochu, umeshu, and yuzushu.
The Bites
Start light with the midori salad, seaweed sunomono, or yellowtail tartare – ideal first-round snacks. Still in the mood to munch? Try the chicken or mushroom gyoza, or chicken yakitori. Meat lover? Go for the Wagyu rib eye or Wagyu katsu sliders. Desserts stay on the lighter side, with black sesame cheesecake, chocolate miso with whisky ice cream, and chocolate kinako marquise.
The Service
The bartenders know their craft, mixing drinks in sync with the DJ’s groovy beats,
while the team brings genuinely good energy, making sure you have the best time and guiding you through the menu like pros.
The extras
Besides the usual groovy DJ sets and month-long themed events, December at Honeycomb Hi-Fi has something special for New Year’s Eve. On Wednesday, December 31, there’s a multi-course menu with all the bar’s favourites. There are three packages to choose from: nonalcoholic Dhs600, house Dhs700 with signature cocktails and sake, or premium Dhs800 for top-shelf spirits and the full inventive cocktail lineup.
What’s On the Tab
Expect to spend around Dhs950 to Dhs1200 for two to three people if you’re going all out with starters, a few mains, drinks, and dessert.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Honeycomb Hi‑Fi nails “the vibe” and easily secures its spot as one of Dubai’s best bars. From concept and interiors to music, energy, drinks, and bites, everything is perfectly in sync. Intimate, soulful, and impossible not to fall for.
Location: Pullman Dubai Downtown, Level 2, Business Bay Times: Wed to Thu & Sun to Tue, 7.30pm to 2am; Fri to Sat, 7.30pm to 3am Contact: @honeycombhifi
COCINA TRES
The Spot
Cocina Tres is the newest opening from the ever-cool VKD Hospitality (the crew behind Honeycomb Hi-Fi and Miss Lily’s) bringing coastal Mexican cuisine to Dubai with serious intent. Sitting right next door to Honeycomb, the space has sat vacant this entire time, held back until they were ready to reveal a concept that felt fully formed.
The Vibe
VKD has once again delivered a room with gravitational pull. Bold, striking colour blocks, playful shadows and an indoor–outdoor rhythm nod to the work of Mexican architect Luis Barragán, known for his saturated palettes, clean lines and poetic use of light and textured surfaces. The team even flew in a specialist painter to achieve the perfectly weathered, bubbling concrete walls so synonymous with the Mexican modernist aesthetic. The result is transportive and instantly cool.
The Food and Drinks
The menu is the product of a month-long research and eating trip across Mexico, and you can taste their homework. Bright, coastal flavours arrive with personality and polish: a rich red adobo-brushed fish cooked over open flame and served with fresh tortillas and house-made salsas (ask, quietly, for the off-menu spicy one if you think you can handle it); guacamole crowned with halal corn chicharrón that delivers the perfect salty crunch; seafood-forward ceviches that swing from citrusy to herbaceous to fiery, each bringing its own mood; and tuna tostadas that land like edible art. The standout, though, is a bubbling pan of cheesy Mexican vermicelli fideo seco, topped with grilled prawns (think a rich, indulgent meeting of paella and raclette, all umami-forward and irresistibly gooey). The baby chicken, with its citrus brine, doesn’t quite hit the same highs, but by then you’ll likely be too distracted by the dessert tray, a
very Contramar-coded moment loaded with creamy pies, milk-soaked cakes and churro-doughnut hybrids designed to undo any self-restraint.
Drinks are playful with a grown-up edge. Frozen margaritas are already a hit, Palomas are on the way, and the coffeeinfused old fashioned is a dangerously smooth cocktail that’ll put hairs on your chest. The kitchen is helmed by chef Brandon Arriago, who has some serious pedigree, having come from Pujol – the Mexico City institution consistently ranked among the world’s best for redefining modern Mexican cuisine –making this a notable coup for the team.
The Service
Service has the personality and warmth VKD has become known for. In these early weeks, the Honeycomb Hi-Fi floor team is doubling up here too, bringing familiarity, confidence and genuine enthusiasm. They’re still settling into the rhythm of a new menu, but it’s clear they’ve eaten their way through it, and their recommendations land with conviction.
What to Order
❑ Tuna tostadas (Dhs78)
❑ Pescado Zarandeado (Dhs200/Dhs395)
❑ Crispy sea bass tacos (Dhs68)
❑ Aquachile Negro (Dhs125)
❑ Guacamole with corn chicharron (Dhs65)
❑ Fideo seco (Dhs74)
What’s On the Bill
Expect to pay around Dhs600 for two people (excluding drinks).
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Cocina Tres feels like a passion project built with obsessive attention to detail and a big, beating heart for Mexican cuisine and culture. It’s already shaping up to be the city’s next mustbook dining room. Go now, while it still feels like a secret.
Behold, the most unforgettable, most delicious things we’ve eaten in the city this year
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
Chilean sea bass at Bâoli Dubai
Our love for Bâoli now runs deep. It’s the North Star of beachfront restaurants on J1. We adore its outrageous ability to knock the socks off everyone who walks in. It can smash out 450 covers (and that’s on a Thursday). It’s become the party-restaurant venue, and it could rest on its laurels, but it doesn’t, thanks in large part to Omar Basiony leading the enormous pass. There are literally two kitchens, churning out Asian-leaning bites from sashimi platters to flame-licked mega-plates. But the dish we couldn’t stop talking about for days afterwards was the Chilean sea bass brushed with a Japanese salted plum and miso glaze, resting in a tangy FrenchJapanese fusion sauce, and topped with fresh herbs.
Price: Dhs240
Book: baoli-restaurant.com
Beef tartelette with caviar at Hanu
At his Palm Jumeirah stunner Hanu, chef Kyung Soo Moon has returned to his roots, and the results are sublime. His modern interpretation of Korean cuisine takes familiar flavours and elevates. The beef tartelette is the perfect example all jewel-like, and almost too pretty to eat. Beneath a soft quail egg and a crown of caviar lies a rich soy-brasied beef filling that defies logic, leaving only happy, involuntary “mmm’s” in its wake.
Price: Dhs110
Visit: @hanu_dubai
Pastelitos at Girl and the Goose
Every culture has its version of the humble dumpling. Those golden little parcels that hide something wonderful inside. The British have their Cornish pasties, the Chinese their xiao long bao, Nepal has momos, and across Latin America, there’s the empanada. But thanks to chef Gigi at Girl and the Goose, we’ve fallen hard for Nicaragua’s answer to them all: the pastelito. Hers are crisp, moon-shaped pastries, all flaky, baked goodness. Of the many fillings, the goat cheese and caramelised onion is our star: sweet and tangy, and made even better with a generous dunk in Gigi’s punchy chimichurri.
Price: Dhs53
Book: girlandthegoose.com
French toast at FZN by Björn Frantzén
Hello, tiny titan of taste. Trust Björn Frantzén and his team to transform a humble toast into an object of reverence. What lands before you is less canapé, more composition with spelt sourdough cradling slow-stewed onions, crowned with seared foie gras, and finished with the whisper-thin salt and smoke of house-made beef charcuterie. Each bite is precision-engineered, rich yet balanced, indulgent yet impossibly light. So perfect that it deserves a moment of silence.
Price: Part of the tasting menu, Dhs2,000 Book: restaurantfzn.com
Peking Duck, MEI
With its prime waterfront setting along the Madinat, you might be forgiven for thinking that MEI is just for tourists. But this pan-Asian restaurant at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam is both style and substance. A standout dish from this diverse menu that celebrates the finest flavours from Japan and China is the Peking Duck, a dish designed to share between three to four. The perfect balance of tender duck and crispy skin, it’s served with piping hot pancakes and a punchy Hoi sin sauce. It’s carved table side for added theatre. This is Dubai, after all.
Price: Dhs455
Book: meidxb.com
Steak Frites at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
A Parisian institution with queues that wind around the block, Le Relais de l’Entrecôte has built its legend on a single dish – steak frites. In Dubai, the formula remains gloriously untouched. There’s tender sirloin, golden matchstick fries, and that famously secret sauce, a family recipe whispered down through generations of French culinary masters. Maybe another reason we love this dish so much is that once you’ve finished your first helping, your plate is magically refilled with more steak, more fries, and more sauce.
Price: Dhs155 (for a walnut salad and steak frites)
Visit: @relaisdelentrecotedubai
What’s On contributor
Alice Holtham says:
What’s On contributor
Iain Akerman says:
Wagyu pastrami pie, Piehaus
In the summer, Stasha Toncev and Milan Jurkovic, the duo behind the beloved 21grams Balkan Bistro, debuted their second venue, a high-ceilinged, shinier space devoted to a concise menu of buttery pies. One standout, eaten (and re-eaten) over multiple visits since, is the tender, butter-laden wagyu pastrami pie, dressed to impress with a side of fuchsia pickled onions and a killer hollandaise sauce.
Price: Dhs84
Visit: @piehaus.dubai
Cheesecake slice at Middle Child
When Middle Child opened on Alserkal Avenue, it immediately charmed the neighbourhood with its sunlit interiors, communal tables, and shelves lined with cookbooks and pantry treasures. But beyond the aesthetics, the food has been quietly stealing hearts. It’s comfort cooking done with conviction featuring hand-cut chips stacked high, hearty Bolognese, and a properly indulgent club sandwich. And then there’s the classic cheesecake. It’s a rich and thick marvel that takes the proverbial biscuit, latching onto the top of your mouth. Easily one of 2025’s great desserts.
Price: Dhs49
Visit: @middlechildmiddlechild
What’s On contributor
Medialuna, Pancita Bakery
Patatas bravas at Boca
Our love for tapas is deep and unshakable, and a recent return to Boca reminded us why. Under Chef Patricia Roig, this Green Michelin-starred kitchen has been busy reinventing classics while introducing exciting new dishes, none more so than their latest take on patatas bravas. Each Idaho potato is chosen for its starchy texture, baked slowly until soft, then fried to achieve a perfectly crisp exterior. Layered into delicate mille-feuille stacks, they’re dressed with a punchy tomato sauce so vibrant we almost asked for a jar to take home. A scatter of aioli, spring onions, and crispy garlic chilli magnifies each bite. Simple touches, expertly executed.
Price: Dhs52
Book: boca.ae
The yeast fermentation process means it takes three days to make a medialuna, which seems a sad waste of effort because it only takes six seconds to eat one. These astonishingly delicious croissants from Pancita Bakery have a crispy top and come in a variety of flavours. Our pick is the sweet and savoury combo of cheese and date syrup with a sprinkling of sesame seeds on top. When these gourmet pastries appeared at Le Guepard in Alserkal Avenue for a three-month pop-up earlier this summer, word went round Dubai’s Argentinian community faster than you can say ‘Diego Maradona’. Available on Talabat, let’s hope the medialuna finds a bricks and mortar home soon.
Price: Dhs28
Order: talabat.com
Rob Chilton says:
THE UAE’S DREAMIEST DESERT/WINTER CAFÉS
Coffee, dunes, vibes
DUBAI
Hidden Dubai
True to its name, Hidden Dubai feels like a world apart from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just 45 minutes from the city, this desert café is set among golden dunes and gently swaying palms. Kick back with a coffee in boho-chic surroundings, from white deck chairs to rattan sofas piled with plush cushions around a cosy campfire. The real showstopper? A mirrored installation that captures the stunning desert backdrop, creating a picture-perfect moment at every angle.
Location: Lisaili Fort, Al Lisaili (road to Al Lisaili Stables) Times: Daily, 4pm to 1am @hidden_dubai
Limited Dubai
Limited is back for its third edition this winter, and it’s the perfect escape from Dubai’s hustle and bustle. Set against the
serene lakes of Al Marmoom Desert, the pop-up glows under a canopy of golden lights, making it a dreamy spot to unwind. Sip on a hot drink and soak up the cosy vibes, or treat yourself to a dessert. Feeling hungrier? The menu has you covered with fresh salads, crowdfavourite starters like jalapeño poppers, lemon butter corn cups, and dynamite prawns, plus hearty mains including noodles, burgers, and even a kids’ meal for the little ones.
Location: Al Marmoom Lakes Times: Daily, 5pm to 11pm @limited.dubai
SHARJAH
MySpace Cafe
One Degree Winter Cafe
No 4x4? No problem. You can still get your desert and dessert fix at One Degree Winter Café in Mushrif Park. Surrounded by palm trees and soft sand underfoot, this laidback spot brings all the desert vibes without the drive. Kick back with a hot drink or a hearty meal, enjoy live entertainment, horse and camel rides, and join in on family-friendly games and workshops. Before you leave, wander around, as there are plenty of Insta-worthy corners waiting to be snapped.
Location: Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej Street Times: Daily, 5pm to 12am @onedegree.ae
Sadeem Dubai
Sadeem is so visually stunning that HH Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, paid the desert pop-up not one, not two, but three visits. The last edition’s space played on the elements of lights, and it made every visitor’s Instagram pop. Sadeem Dubai is expected to open at the end of November. We will be keeping our eyes peeled for the announcement. Location: Al Marmoom, near Al Qudra Lakes Times: 7am to 11pm @sadeemdubai
A 50-minute drive away from Sharjah, head to Al Qasimia City for a cool outdoor experience among the desert dunes with plenty of Instagrammable spots. On the menu, there’s speciality coffee, hot and cold drinks and desserts. Want to enjoy a whole meal? There are dishes available for all tastes. The whole family can enjoy the fun games area with billiards, table tennis, basketball, PlayStation and more. Additionally, there are daily activities for children and fire shows. The best news? It’s dog-friendly so your four-legged family member can have a good time, too.
Location: Al Qasimia City Times: Daily, 4pm to 1am @myspace.cafe
Savour Citronelle’s Festive Takeaway featuring expertly roasted duck, chicken, or boneless chicken, paired with fragrant rice and seasonal vegetables. Please place your order at least 48 hours in advance.
Glutinous rice stuffed with water chestnut & mixed mushrooms, truffle chicken jus, wok-fried vegetables.
AED 320
TIGER BRUNCH
Lemongrass-marinated with peanut satay sauce, served with egg-fried rice and wok-fried vegetables.
AED 290
TIGER BRUNCH
Christmas Edition
Keep the Christmas celebrations going with Citronelle’s Evening Tiger Brunch! Indulge in signature dishes, artfully curated dim sum, grills, Asian salads, and starters, all served at your table.
Toast to 2026 in style at Citronelle’s New Year’s Eve Tiger Brunch! Delight in a table-served festive feast, featuring Chef Yu Lin's succulent roasted duck, artfully crafted dim sum, grills, Asian salads, and starters. Sip on curated beverages, enjoy live entertainment, and immerse yourself in a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere.
Over two decades after her ground‑breaking book, 50 Great Curries of India, became a global phenomenon, Camellia Panjabi is back with a long‑awaited new release: Vegetables: The Indian Way
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
NOT TO MISS
A brilliant line-up to fuel your love for the arts, culture and music in Dubai
Peggy Gou
When: December 6
Where : Five LUXE JBR
Global music icon Peggy Gou will be performing at Pacha Icons at FIVE LUXE JBR in Dubai for one night only on December 6. The Berlinbased, South Korean DJ, producer, and style icon is known for her genreblending sound that fuses house, techno, and acid influences, and has become the most in-demand names on the global electronic music scene. Tickets are from Dhs150 – grab them on Platinumlist.
@pachaicons
Franz Ferdinand
When: December 13
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
Franz Ferdinand is bringing their signature blend of sharp riffs and infectious energy to the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on December 13. Fans can expect a high-octane night of classic anthems like “Take Me Out” alongside fresh tracks from their latest album, The Human Fear @cocacolaarena
Japan Culture Con
When: December 12 to 14
Where: Burj Park, Downtown Dubai
If you’re travel bucket list includes Japan, head on over to Downtown Dubai for a little sneak peek as a three-day cultural festival is taking place from December 12 to 14. Japan Culture Con celebrates the very best of Japanese tradition and contemporary culture, offering something for visitors of all ages. Prices start from Dhs90 for a single-day pass, with couple and group ticket options available. Get your tickets on Platinumlist at platinumlist.net
When: December 14
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
Pitbull, one of the biggest names in global pop is touching down in Dubai this December. He is bringing his I’m Back tour to the city, after touring major cities across Europe and Australia. All his shows have attracted a huge fan base and we can expect the same energy when he performs here in Dubai. Be prepared for all his bangers including Timber, Rain Over Me, Give Me Everything, and much more. Tickets are priced from Dhs344 and available at coca-cola-arena.com @cocacolaarena
Cinderella
When: December 17 to 29
Where: Jumeirah Beach Hotel Theatre
Take the whole family to see Cinderella, the beloved fairytale come to life on stage. The story follows kindhearted Cinderella as she rises above her evil stepmother and horrible stepsisters to make it to the Royal Ball, thanks to the help of a little fairy dust and her friend, Buttons. Expect a traditional panto, with a mix of magic, music and slapstick. Tickets are priced from Dhs100 and available on Platinumlist. @jumeirahbeachhotel
When: December 19
Where: Ushuaia Dubai Harbour
The king of EDM is coming to town. French superstar David Guetta is set to perform at Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour this December 19, and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest nights of the year. Expect the full Guetta experience, pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and that unmistakable Ibiza-style atmosphere that Ushuaïa is famous for. Prices start from Dhs1,250 via the Platinumlist website.
@ushuaiadubai
Tiesto
When: From 6pm on December 20
Where: Surf Club Dubai
Last year, Tiësto lit up the stage at Untold Dubai and while he’s not on this year’s festival lineup, fans won’t have to wait long to see him live again. Why? Well, the legendary Dutch DJ is set to return to Dubai this month for an exclusive, intimate set at Surf Club on the shores of West Beach, Palm Jumeirah. Tickets will be available on surfclubdubai.com @surfclubdubai
When: From 6pm on December 27
Where: Ushuaia Dubai Harbour
Ushuaia has bought some huge international DJs to Dubai Harbour this season and DJ Black Coffee is part of that line-up. The acclaimed South African DJ is making his highly anticipated return after selling out a massive gig last year – so if you missed him last time, nab your tickets now. Prices start from Dhs195 via platinumlist.net @ushuaiadubai
Pitbull Live in Dubai
DJ Black Coffee
David Guetta
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
OArmando Christian Pérez, the 44-yearold Cuban-American from Miami, has been shaping the soundtrack to our lives since the early 2000s. From Hotel Room Service to Give Me Everything, Timber to Fireball, his songs defined dance floors, road trips, and school parties. Sure, at CULTURE //
FROM OVERPLAYED TO ICONIC
How Pitbull became the Gen Z hero we didn’t know the world needed
nce the ubiquitous voice of 2000s parties, radio anthems, and school discos, Pitbull, Mr Worldwide himself, has gone from tolerated pop staple to cult hero, adored by a generation that didn’t even exist when he first hit the charts. Come Sunday, December 14, he’ll take Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena by storm on his I’m Back tour, and if recent social media trends are anything to go by, the crowd will be dressed like him. Bald caps, suits, sunglasses – thousands strong.
the time, Pitbull was easy to dismiss –overexposed, auto-tuned, a party machine cranking out hits with catchy choruses and relentless energy. But nostalgia and irony have a funny way of turning overexposure into reverence. Add a dash of meme culture, and suddenly Pitbull is Gen Z’s favourite ironic icon.
The meme phenomenon began on TikTok, where young fans jokingly declared themselves “bald for Pitbull”, mimicking his trademark shaved head and sharp suits. What started as a laugh has become a full-blown fandom. On recent tours in the UK, concertgoers turned up just in bald caps and sunglasses, with many pushing it step further in complete Pitbull ensembles: black ties, fake facial hair, the works. Pitbull himself has been thrilled by the devotion. “It’s an honour,” he told the BBC. “Seeing thousands of people dressed like me is priceless. I’ve been in the game 25 years, and to see every demographic participating, everyone singing in Spanish and English, it’s the ultimate trophy.”
This evolution says a lot about Pitbull’s career: in the Latin world he was “too English”, in the English-speaking market he was “too Latin”, yet through sheer persistence and a keen ear for pop crossover, he’s now one of the few artists able to merge worlds seamlessly. With 25 million albums sold, 100 million singles, and a career that spans decades, he’s proven he knows how to play the game. He’s smart, too – he understands the cultural currency of irony and has leaned into it, embracing the costumes, the memes, and the fan theatrics.
Come December 14, Dubai will get to see it live. Expect to dance and sing along, and if you’re feeling bold, expect to do it dressed like Mr Worldwide himself. Pitbull’s appeal lies in his unapologetic energy, his ability to bring everyone together, and the sheer fun of it all. From overplayed to iconic, from radio staple to meme legend, Pitbull is back, better, sharper, and arguably more beloved than ever.
How to dress like Pitbull
Because at a Mr. Worldwide concert, why not go full fan?
Bald cap
Grab a bald cap to mimic Pitbull’s signature shaved head. TikTok fans started it as a joke, now it’s a full-on ritual.
02 Sunglasses
A pair of sleek metal-framed aviators essential.
Suit up
Think sharp and slick. Black suit or crisp blazer. Tie recommended for maximum Mr. Worldwide vibes.
Accessories for the bold Fake goatee? Pocket square? Some fans go full ensemble, some keep it minimalist – either way, confidence is key.
SOLE POWER
SOLE DXB: Where sneakers and street culture collide
What started as a humble sneaker meetup in 2011 has exploded into what is now called, SOLE DXB – Dubai’s premier festival of sneakers, street art, music, and sport. This year, it returns from December 12 to 14, bringing together sneakerheads, artists, and music lovers in a celebration that’s as much about culture as it is about kicks. Held in the Dubai Design District (d3) –one of Dubai’s coolest neighbourhoods, the festival is one huge sensory playground. All visitors can explore a world of street culture from live mural installations, pop-up sneaker swaps, and interactive brand activations from giants like Nike, Adidas, and Puma. The basketball courts pulse with high-energy tournaments while DJ sets and live acts keep the festival floor alive late into the night.
A LINEUP WITH GLOBAL REACH AND LOCAL SOUL
The artists confirmed for this edition reflect SOLE’s reputation for blending international icons with rising regional talent. Headliners include Kaytranada (Friday), whose genre-bending beats set the tone; Tyla (Saturday), bringing her amapiano-fueled heat; and Miguel (Sunday), closing with soulful R&B flair. But the surprises don’t stop there. Back for its second year, Stage Two, powered by Sole Sound System, broadens the festival’s music lineup to include dance, world, indie, jazz, hip-hop, and soul. The full lineup also features eclectic names like Gilles Peterson, the Grammy-winning Tuareg band Tinariwen, hip-hop legends Black Star, and Indian rap pair KR$NA & Raftaar, offering a truly global soundscape.
CULTURE, COMMUNITY AND MARKETPLACE
Beyond the stages, SOLE DXB is shaping up as a cultural ecosystem. Festivalgoers can jump into a Sneaker Swap, explore a Vintage and Thrift Market, and check out immersive brand activations from over 55 participating labels.
Creative talks, panels, and workshops will run across the weekend – covering design, sustainability, music production, and more. For sports lovers, there’s no shortage of action either with street basketball tournaments or skate jams taking place add a raw, kinetic layer to the cool festival.
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD
At SOLE DXB, the culinary experience is just as vibrant as the street culture. d3 comes alive with a curated selection of food vendors and popup stalls brought in from across the city. You’ll find everything from gourmet comfort food to festival-style bites, creative eats, local favourites, and bold flavours at every turn. And don’t forget, the Design District itself also offers elevated dining options from chic cafés and restaurants to concept-driven spots and much more.
Location: Dubai Design District
Dates: December 12 to 14, 2025
Cost: Prices from Dhs299 @soledxb
Ticket details
Three-day General Admission pass: Dhs549 per person. Single day pass: Dhs299
Golden Circle tickets and other options also available on PlatinumList.net
The Maine
Miguel
Tyla
This Festive Season at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah & Hilton Dubai The Walk
WHERE TO GET ACTIVE OUTDOORS
December is the perfect time to be outdoors, thanks to cooler temperatures and blue skies
Padel
Padel is one of the fastestgrowing and most popular racquet sports in Dubai, blending tennis and squash for a fast-paced, social, and fun game. Ideal for all skill levels, it’s perfect for friendly matches, or competitive play. With easyto-learn rules and a focus on teamwork, Padel has quickly become a favourite sport across the UAE.
Location: Just Padel, Kite Beach, Dubai
Times: Daily, 6am to 12am
Cost: Dhs220 for 45 minutes, Dhs180 for an extra 45 minutes
Contact: (055) 992 8022
@justpadel_ae
Beach Volleyball
Rent a beach volleyball court and enjoy a funfilled day with friends under the sun. Suitable for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for a casual match. If you’re alone, you can connect with fellow volleyball enthusiasts, join organised games, and make new friends while enjoying this exciting sport.
Location: Kite Beach, Dubai
Times: Daily, 5am to 3am
Cost: Dhs100 per hour per court
Contact: volley.ae
@esperia.volleyball.dubai
Crystal clear kayaking
Crystal clear kayaking is exactly what it sounds like: a see-through kayak that turns Dubai’s coastline into a moving aquarium and your paddle into a photo op. You sit low in a transparent hull, glide over calm, pale-blue water, and watch fish flicker beneath you while the skyline does its thing in the background. Paddles start from Jumeirah 2 Beach up to Jumeirah Bay. While great for an upper body workout and getting an iconic Instagram shot, this experience can be turned into a romantic moment with add on packages for anniversaries and even birthdays.
Location: Jumeirah 2 Beach, Dubai Times: Daily, 6.30am to 4.30am
Cost: Dhs160 for 1 person, Dhs190 for 2 people
Contact: (056) 473 8459
Bike rental
Get some outdoor exercise in Dubai and ride along the smooth, wide footpath that runs the perimeter of the waterway in the heart of Dubai Marina. Or catch a winter sunset along Kite Beach, perfect for casual cyclists looking for a scenic, safe, and fun ride.
Location: Careem Bike Stations, Dubai Marina Walkway and Kite Beach Times: Daily, 24 hours
Cost: Dhs1.20/min for pay-as-you-go, Dhs10 for every additional 30 minutes on single trips. Daily, weekly, and monthly passes available through the app.
Contact: careem.com @careemuae
7 side football
One of Dubai’s most popular football experiences, the 7-a-side pitch at Rad Sports Al Barsha is perfect for leagues, tournaments, kids’ academy sessions, or casual social football. With over 500 daily social players, this facility consistently attracts a large community of football enthusiasts. Book early to secure your preferred time, and enjoy a fun, fast-paced game in a safe and well-maintained environment. Established in 2019, Rad Sports combines professionalquality pitches with a vibrant football community, making it ideal for players of all ages and skill levels.
Location: Al Barsha, Smart Vision, Dubai Times: Daily, 6am to 12am
Cost: Dhs420 for 60 minutes, Dhs600 for 90 minutes
YOUR GUIDE TO OUTDOOR WELLNESS IN DUBAI THIS SEASON
Wellness by the pool at Jumeirah
Burj Al Arab
Dubai’s parks, beaches, and gardens are calling for your next reset
Yoga at the Balloons
Start your Saturday with a Hatha yoga session at Al Qasr, set by the Balloons at the Palace. Move through gentle stretches while taking in stunning views of the Dubai skyline and the sparkling Arabian Gulf. After class, enjoy a healthy breakfast to keep the good vibes flowing – a relaxed, feel-good way to begin the weekend.
Location: Balloons at the Palace, Jumeirah Al Qasr
Times: Every Sunday, 8.30am to 10am
Cost: Dhs350 per person (includes yoga mat, towel, water, and breakfast)
Contact: @balloonsatthepalace @jumeirahalqasr
Micro Lagree at Aura Skypool
Take your wellness journey to the next level with a poolside yoga session led by Adrienne Everrette at Jumeriah Burj Al Arab’s SAL Beach Club. This exclusive poolside yoga class offers a moment of calm and balance, designed to reset your mind and body. Breathe in the tranquility of the surroundings and let Adrienne guide you through a mindful practice that leaves you feeling revitalised and centred, ready to take on the day.
Location: SAL, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Jumeira St Times: Every Friday at 8.30am
Cost: Dhs250 per person
Contact: hwhstudiodubai. com @hwhstudiodubai
Looking for a workout that hits both body and mind? Micro Lagree at Aura Skypool is a 40-minute full-body session designed to sculpt, strengthen, and energise while keeping you centred and focused. Each precise, mindful movement helps reduce stress, improve clarity, and leave you feeling balanced. You’ll build lean, sculpted muscle, strengthen your core, joints, and posture, and accelerate fat-burning during and after the workout. The class includes an immersive session with a Longevity Wellness Hub expert instructor, a wellness shot to kickstart your practice, use of the Micro Lagree reformer, an AURA reusable water bottle with infused water to take home, and a nutritious breakfast in the lounge with your choice of one dish from the set menu paired with a hot or cold drink.
Location: Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Tower, 50th Floor
Times: December 20 at 7am and 8am
Cost: Dhs400 per class
Contact: auraskypool.com @auraskypool.dubai
TRIED AND TESTED
CAN WE BE FITTER AT 40?
What’s On contributor Laura Coughlin tackles eight weeks at Embody Fitness, the personal training gym that doesn’t mess around
Ilove a gym class, but mostly for the coffee and chat afterwards. But at 40, I surrendered that I probably needed more. Stronger bones, a resilient body, a back that doesn’t ache – basically, a version of myself that can keep up with life. Enter Embody Fitness, a personal-training-only gym where there’s nowhere to hide, and the results aren’t optional.
From the o , Embody makes it clear that it means business. The space is vast but intimate, bathed in natural light, with polished floors, highspec equipment, and an attention to detail that feels luxurious. There’s a quiet energy that motivates, a sense that every corner, every machine, every recovery tool has been considered.
And right now, at 11am o -peak, I have the gym to myself. Peak times are
busier but never crowded, because no one trains here unless they have a dedicated PT session.
The team’s ethos hits instantly: Embody is all about you. Strength, conditioning, nutrition, recovery, sports therapy, it’s a complete ecosystem, and every coach is working toward the same goal –transformation that lasts.
Harjeet Singh, my trainer – and Embody’s Performance Director – is Irish, purposeful, and completely no-nonsense. He doesn’t want to hear about my weekend antics or my brunch choices, he wants to get results. And in his presence, I can’t coast. The hour splits across machines and free weights, alternating legs and arms in four rigorous rounds, then moving on to other exercises with precise timing.
I’m clamouring on the leg press one moment, then hitting my back muscles with controlled rows. Split squats, pull downs, and accessory work follow, every movement analysed, every angle corrected. By the time we hit the conditioning finisher, I’m pushing a 50kg sled across the floor, then grabbing a heavy medicine ball and slamming it until I collapse, each
thud reverberating across the room. Sweat drips, muscles scream, but it’s deliberate, and, dare I say, kind of satisfying?
Once the session ends, the recovery suite beckons. Infrared saunas, ice baths, hot-cold therapy, Embody integrates recovery as part of the plan. My muscles loosen, tension melts, and the benefits are tangible.
I’ve been at it for about six weeks, and I’ll be honest, the scales haven’t budged. Dining out most nights, a five-day trip to Vegas… that’s on me. But my strength has skyrocketed. My data proves it, and that’s what matters. I can lift more, move better, and feel capable in a way I haven’t in years. And for me, that’s the goal – sustainable, meaningful progress.
Whether your target is strength, endurance, or a complete life reset, the chances are high that Embody will get you there.
Personal training packages start at Dh15,990 for a high-intensity eightweek programme, which includes 24 PT sessions, three assessments, and two recovery suite sessions. Meal plans are also provided at an additional cost.
Harjeet Singh, Performance Director at Embody Fitness
What kind of transformations have you typically seen in clients following a full Embody programme?
I would say transformations that go beyond just aesthetics. Clients gain strength, confidence, energy and longterm habits that reshape how they live, not just how they look.
How would you say Embody differs from other gyms or PT setups around town?
Embody feels different because everything is truly personal. Clients are not just members, they are truly looked after. Our coaches know their goals, lifestyle, and struggles, and they guide them on every step. It’s supportive, private, and genuinely caring. People come here to change, and we walk that journey with them.
How would you describe your own PT style and personality?
My style is very structured, calm, and professional, but also supportive and realistic. I’m big on education, helping people understand why they’re doing something rather than just telling them
what to do. I like to keep things simple and systems-driven. My personality in the gym is reassuring and measured. The goal is always to guide people towards long-term results, not overwhelm them or complicate the process. As Performance Director, that naturally carries into how I mentor the team as well: high standards, honest feedback, and a steady leadership style that helps people feel supported.
How have you found training Laura so far? Be honest!
Training Laura has been genuinely enjoyable. She’s attentive, she listens well, and she’s willing to put the work in without overthinking things. Her
energy is always high, she always shows up punctually, asks the right questions, and takes feedback constructively. What I really appreciate is her consistency and her willingness to trust the process. She’s motivated, but also realistic, which makes programming and progression much easier.
Who are the types of people you train?
It’s a real mix, to be honest. I like to train people who appreciate structure, clarity, and high-quality service. Some are high performers in their careers, some are parents juggling life and health, and others are beginners simply wanting to feel better and build confidence. What they all have in common is that they value being guided properly and they want a coach who’s invested in their progress.
And just for fun – what’s your guilty pleasure meal?
It’s usually a solid butter chicken from one of the small Indian spots that get the flavours right. My particular favourite is Amritsr restaurant in Karama. The food there is amazing.
DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS
VIVALas Vegas
Here’s how to dive headfirst into Sin City
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
If ever there were a twin city to Dubai, it’s Las Vegas –two desert metropolises that traded sand for spectacle and built playgrounds from pure ambition. Both glow brightest after dark, and both make you question what’s real and what’s just really well-lit.
Las Vegas is built on escape. It’s a shimmering mirage that’s mastered the art of distraction, a place that urges you to hit pause on reality and live entirely in the now. For decades, the city’s promise has been simple and irresistible: come here, lose yourself, and maybe a little of your dignity. The slogan may have evolved from “What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas” to “What Happens Here, Only Happens Here,” but the mission remains the same, to make sure you experience something that can’t quite happen anywhere else.
And somehow, in a world where everything is available at your fingertips, Vegas still feels unique. It’s brash and wonderfully surreal, a city that thrives on spectacle. From billion-dollar domes to neon backstreets, from bottomless brunches to drive-thru weddings, it’s a high-definition dreamscape where the absurd and the amazing coexist happily.
So, whether you’re here to max out your camera roll or credit card, these are the six things you absolutely must do on your first trip to Las Vegas, the ones that define the city’s spirit of all-out, unapologetic fun.
1. STEP INSIDE THE SPHERE
Location: The Strip
You’ll see it before your plane even lands, a glowing, 366-foot orb that pulses with light like the world’s biggest mood ring. The Sphere is Vegas’ newest obsession, a $2.3 billion venue that’s part concert hall, part alien spaceship. Inside, 270 degrees of visuals wrap around the audience in dizzying high-definition, while sound travels through vibrating seats for a fully immersive experience. The Sphere has already hosted icons like U2, Phish, and Dead & Company, and its calendar is only getting bolder. Even Delta Airlines is using it for CES keynotes, because in Vegas, even corporate presentations come with pyrotechnics. It’s the future of live entertainment, and it happens to live right on the Strip.
2. EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH THE WYNN BUFFET
Location: Wynn Las Vegas
3. DARE TO WANDER DOWN FREEMONT STREET
Location: Downtown Las Vegas
There are two kinds of Vegas visitors – Strip people and Fremont people. The first group chases bottle service and curates perfection; the second dives headfirst into the city’s weird, wonderful underbelly. Fremont Street is old-school Vegas turned up to eleven. It’s where neon signs, street performers, vintage casinos, and the world’s largest LED canopy collide in glorious chaos. Locals love it because it feels real. Grab a cheap beer, zipline under a ceiling of flashing lights, and remember why Vegas became legendary in the first place.
Vegas practically invented the buffet, and the one at Wynn is its crown jewel. Forget soggy eggs and carving stations, this is a global food parade where lobster Benedicts and red velvet chocolate chip pancakes share the stage with pizza, tamales, and barbecue ribs. Sixteen stations, endless plates, and an “Endless Pours” upgrade that keeps the mimosas flowing. Enter through an avenue lined with royal palms and prepare for sensory overload.
Freemont Street
The Sphere
Wynn Buffet
4. CRASH A DRIVETHRU WEDDING
Location: The Little White Wedding Chapel, Downtown
Vegas weddings are an institution. The Little White Wedding Chapel has married everyone from Britney Spears to Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez. It’s also the birthplace of the 24-hour drive-thru wedding window, a happy accident that started when a groom in a wheelchair couldn’t make it inside. You don’t need to be tying the knot to enjoy the spectacle. Park nearby and watch as couples roll up in pink Cadillacs for their five-minute “I dos.” It’s utterly Vegas – where love, like everything else, comes with a side of showmanship.
5. SEE THE BELLAGIO FOUNTAINS
Location: The Strip
It’s impossible to overstate the drama of the Bellagio Fountains, a perfectly choreographed water ballet set to Sinatra, Gaga, and whatever else the hotel decides to blast that hour. Every 15 to 30 minutes, the fountains leap, twist, and shimmer in perfect time with the music, sending tourists scrambling for the best selfie angle. It’s touristy, but you’ll find it fun regardless.
6. LEAVE THE CITY AND TAKE THE GRAND CANYON MULE TOUR
Location: Book through Xanterra
When you’re ready to detox from neon and noise, a mule ride through the Grand Canyon is the ultimate reality reset. The sure-footed mules wind along cliffside trails that have changed little in centuries, ending at Phantom Ranch by Bright Angel Creek. It’s physically demanding and reviews mention “occasionally terrifying”, but that’s the point. After days of air-conditioned indulgence, this is Vegas’ wild counterpart: nature’s version of a high-stakes adventure.
Bellagio Fountains
The Little White Wedding Chapel
Grand Canyon
WHERE TO STAY
WYNN LAS VEGAS
Las Vegas has never been short on spectacle, but Wynn plays in a league of its own, where indulgence comes dressed in impeccable taste. Opened in 2005 and still one of the Strip’s crown jewels, Wynn Las Vegas is the epitome of a casino resort: less carnival, more couture.
Inside, the design is classic Wynn. Grand and playful. Sunlight filters through glass ceilings, florals tumble across mosaic floors, and every corridor feels carefully curated. The interiors are a masterclass in hospitality theatre, orchestrated to make guests feel cocooned and dazzled at once. From the perfumed air to the hushed efficiency of the staff, every detail creates a seamless, soft-focus reality.
Rooms are spacious, and soundproofed from the Strip’s frenzy below. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame either the neon sprawl or the serene Wynn Golf Club, the only 18-hole championship course on Las Vegas Boulevard. Beds are cloud-soft, marble bathrooms gleam, and automation lets guests adjust everything from drapes to lighting with a touch. It’s the Vegas fantasy and meticulously maintained.
Meanwhile, dining here is its own universe. The Buffet at Wynn is a kaleidoscopic sprawl of global flavours that turns the humble all-you-can-eat concept into a high-gloss performance. Delilah, a glittering 1950s-inspired supper club, serves live jazz, martinis, and prime rib under gilded chandeliers, and Mizumi offers artful Japanese dishes beside a koifilled lagoon.
Wynn’s wellness scene is quietly exceptional, too. The spa bathes in whispered luxury, blending Eastern
philosophies with modern techniques. Pool decks are lush and secluded and the shopping arcade features Chanel and Hermès. You literally never have to leave the resort. Most never do.
By night, Wynn transforms again. The Lake of Dreams, a 40-foot waterfall backed by LED artistry, a singing frog and surreal projections, becomes the hypnotic heart of the resort. Whether sipping champagne at Parasol Down or watching from the terrace, it’s an orchestrated spectacle of awe.
And soon, this signature glamour travels east. Residents of the UAE will have the chance to experience Wynn’s ethos closer to home when Wynn Al Marjan Island opens in spring 2027, a taste of Vegas luxury for the Arabian Gulf. Aren’t we lucky?
Rates for a Wynn Resort King room in December start at Dhs879 (excl taxes) per night. wynnlasvegas.com
Al Zorah Beach Resort
A serene retreat undergoing an exciting transformation promises relaxation and rejuvenation
SET THE SCENE
Change is afoot on the sleepy Al Zorah shorefront. The luxury resort once known as The Oberoi has been taken over by Four Seasons, and will be reimagined into the Four Seasons Ajman at Al Zorah in 2026. In the interim, it’s simply known as Al Zorah Beach Resort, while hospitality heavyweights Four Seasons inject their signature five-star service and reimagine the culinary and wellness offering.
THE LOCATION
In under an hour, we’ve left Dubai’s soaring skyscrapers for Al Zorah’s verdant, low-lying landscape, a welcome serenity oozes from the Al Zorah Beach Resort from the second you pull up at the valet. It’s close enough to the city to be convenient, but far enough away to feel like you’re on holiday.
THE DESIGN
The lush landscaping gives Al Zorah Beach Resort a tropical feel, with swaying palms and bushy trees offering seclusion, privacy and a welcome immersion into nature.
The contemporary, modern aesthetic runs from the lobby, flooded with natural light
and expanding out onto shallow pools, right through to guest rooms, villas, and the duo of signature restaurants.
THE ROOM
Our Premier Ocean View Room was light and spacious, and welcome amenities of fresh fruit and sweet macaroons were a lovely touch. We sank effortlessly into plump feather pillows after a day of shorefront relaxation, and the crisp sheets and springy mattress offered one of the best night’s sleep we’d had in ages. A generous bathroom featured a huge walkin shower and sumptuous free-standing tub, plus fragrant Le Labo amenities. The first floor balcony facing over the pool and towards the sea offered blissful alfresco serenity, the sound of chirping birds providing our morning wake-up call.
THE ACTIVITIES
A stretching swimming pool is a standout feature, perfectly chilled and lined with sun loungers and shaded cabanas. Pro tip, arrive in good time, during busy periods
these quickly fill up. The property will benefit from an adults-only pool (part of Four Seasons’ forthcoming enhancements) for those looking to truly switch-off, as families fill the current poolside. At the spa, a pampering massage using fragrant ALQVIMIA oils is relaxing – the therapist using just the right amount of pressure to work out any tension. Those looking to up the ante with activities can enjoy watersports from the beach, or perfect their swing on the adjacent 18-hole Al Zorah Golf Course.
THE FOOD AND DRINK
Breakfast at Vinesse provides a simple but well-stocked continental buffet, complimented by an extensive a la carte menu where eggs a dozen ways, staple sweet treats and international dishes can be ordered as you like. Dinner is best enjoyed by the sea at Aquario. Order from the seafood bar to sample locally caught delicacies, like tiger prawns simply drizzled in chilli butter – a standout dish during our stay.
THE FINAL SAY
A welcome antidote to busy city life, Al Zorah Beach Resort is an oasis of calm where local flavour and natural beauty make for a thoughtful stay.
WHAT’S ON THE BILL
A one-night stay for two starts from Dhs1,650 room only, or Dhs1,800 with breakfast. Al Zorah Beach Resort’s expansive collection of villas, which range from one to three bedrooms and are ideal for group getaways, start from Dhs4,200.
THE DEETS
Location: Al Zorah, Ajman
Check-in/check-out: 3pm/ 12pm
Contact: (0)6 504 4888, @alzorahbeachresort
07 NYE EVENTS IN DUBAI
55 NYE EVENTS IN ABU DHABI
63 NYE EVENTS IN NORTHERN EMIRATES
Editor-in-Chief
Obaid Humaid Al Tayer
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lan Fairservice
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Madie Murphy | madie.murphy@motivate.ae EDITORIAL
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Deputy Editor
Arts & Culture
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COMMERCIAL
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PRODUCTION
General Manager – Production Sunil Kumar
Production Manager
Binu Purandaran
Assistant Production Manager Venita Pinto
As the UAE gears up for its biggest night of the year, expect sky-splitting fireworks, oncea-year dining experiences, and celebrations that stretch long past midnight. Whether you’re chasing the perfect skyline view, booking a bucket-list dinner, or dancing into 2026, this is your guide to making NYE unforgettable. Let’s ring in the new year, UAE-style.
Web Developer Firoz Kaladi
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DUBAI
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
99 SUSHI BAR
This New Year’s Eve, 99 Dubai invites guests to an evening of refined indulgence, combining Michelin-starred Japanese cuisine, world-class entertainment, and front-row views of the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks. Savour a multi-course menu and free-flowing drinks across a four-hour package.
Address Downtown, Dubai, 8pm, Dec 31, from Dhs1,199 to Dhs9,999. Tel: (0)4 547 2241. @99sushibaruae
ABOVE ELEVEN DUBAI
Above Eleven’s NYE Carnaval is set to be a fabulous soiree of Peruvian-Japanese cuisine and craft cocktails. Dine on the open-air terrace and enjoy live entertainment from a DJ and saxophonist, plus firework views, or with an indoor table,
entertainment comes in the form of the resident Ritmo Arriba trio.
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 12.30am, Dec 31, Dhs1,500 indoors, Dhs2,250 outdoors. Tel: (0)54 990 6135.
@aboveelevendubai
ADDRESS BEACH RESORT
Take your New Year’s Eve celebration to extraordinary heights at ZETA Seventy Seven, Dubai’s iconic rooftop destination. Revel in a luxurious atmosphere with panoramic city views, front-row access to dazzling fireworks, and a vibrant ambience set by live singers and electrifying DJs.
An elegant ambience, live stations and prime firework views, that’s what guests can look forward to at The Garden at Address Downtown’s gala dinner. The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by live entertainment featuring a DJ and saxophone, a trio band, and captivating duet performances. Address Downtown, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs5,500 soft, Dhs6,500 house, 50% discount children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 436 8888. @addressdowntown
ADDRESS DUBAI MALL
A chic poolside celebration invites guests to embrace stunning views and a glamourous setting at Solara. Guests can choose from indoor dining and the vibrant terrace to the pool deck or a private cabana, and dine on festive flavours while watching captivating live performances from a three-piece band, magician and DJ.
Address Dubai Mall, 6.30pm to 1.30am, Dec 31, from Dhs2,700 soft, from Dhs3,500 house. Tel: (0)4 245 8888. @addressdubaimall
AKIRA BACK
Ring in the New Year with spectacular firework views at Akira Back. Indulge in a specially curated Omakase set menu and raise a glass to 2026 with bold flavours, vibrant energy and the pulse of Taiko drummers and captivating dancers.
W Dubai – The Palm, 8pm to 12am, Dhs6,000 to Dhs15,000 min spend per table. Tel: (0)4 245 5800. @akirabackdubai
Above Eleven Dubai
Akira Back
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
AL MAHA
A joyful dinner in the desert is the plan for December 31 at Al Diwaan. The evening begins with champagne cocktails and live entertainment, followed by a seven-course menu complemented by a selection of fine wines. As midnight approaches, the desert sky comes alive with music and merriment, welcoming 2026.
Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,500. Tel: (0)4 832 9900. @almaha_resort
AL MUNTAHA
Ring in the New Year above the clouds with Chef Saverio Sbaragli’s Michelin-starred artistry. Indulge in a culinary journey featuring exquisite flavours and breathtaking panoramic views.
Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs8,000. Tel: (800) 323232. @jumeirahburjalarab
Al Maha
Al Muntaha
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
ALBA
At this chic Downtown restaurant, New Year’s Eve unfolds across both its top floor and ground floor dining spaces, serving a four-course menu, Champagne toasts, and live entertainment. Guests will also enjoy front-row views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks.
Dubai Opera Plaza, Downtown Dubai, 7pm, Dec 31, from Dhs1,000 ground floor, from Dhs1,500 top floor. Tel: (0)58 147 9888. @albarestdubai
AMELIA
Foodies and music lovers unite for a high-octane evening of opulent dining, dynamic DJs and live performances on New Year’s Eve. Choose from a selection of experiences, with seating available across the restaurant, bar and lounge. Book by December 10 for early bird rates.
Address Sky View, 7pm to 3am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,500 min spend restaurant, from Dhs2,000 min spend bar. Tel: (0)4 328 2805. @amelia.dubai
Amelia Alba
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
ARMANI/RISTORANTE
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with an elegant sevencourse set menu at this fine dining address in the Burj Khalifa. Courses include oysters with caviar, gnocchi with white truffle and Wagyu beef tenderloin, presented against the backdrop of live music. Panoramic terrace views add to the unforgettable New Year’s Eve ambience. Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, 5pm to 10.30pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,685. Tel: (0)4 888 3010. @armanihoteldxb
ATLANTIS, THE PALM
For all-out opulence, few gala dinners compare to the extravaganza that takes over Atlantis, The Palm. This year, a headline set from Grammy Award-winning Maroon 5 will be paired with a winter wonderland theme, 30-piece live band and a dazzling culinary showcase. Atlantis, The Palm, 6pm, Dec 31, from Dhs6,500 adults and Dhs4,500 children four to 13. Tel: (0)4 426 0000. @atlantisthepalm
Atlantis, The Palm
Armani/Ristorante
BANYAN TREE DUBAI
In the gardens of Banyan Tree Dubai, a gorgeous gala dinner promises live music, fire dancers, a drone show and a stunning fireworks display as the clock strikes twelve. Enjoy gourmet dining from across the resort restaurants and free-flowing drinks. Bluewaters, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs3,500 adults, Dhs1,750 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 556 6666. @banyantreedxb
BAR DES PRÉS, IL GATTOPARDO & 1920
Atop ICD Brookfield Place, Bar des Prés, sister restaurant Il Gattopardo, and upstairs bar 1920 team up for a dazzling celebration called Dinner & Beyond. Priced at Dhs5,000 per person, you’ll enjoy a gourmet set menu, prime window seat for the midnight spectacle, premium cocktails, and a bottle of Dom Pérignon per couple to toast the arrival of 2026. The evening continues with open bar access on selected beverages until 1.30am.
ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, 7pm to 1.30am, Dec 31, Dhs5,000. Tel: (0)4 498 1616. @bardespres.dubai, @gattopardodubai
BCH:CLB
BCH:CLB transforms its iconic beachfront into a glittering ballroom for BCH:BALL on December 31. Expect a red carpet welcome, dazzling décor, live music, and panoramic fireworks views over the Marina, Atlantis, and Burj Al Arab.
W Dubai – The Palm, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, from Dhs745. Tel: (0)4 834 3803. @bchclb
Banyan Tree Dubai
BCH:CLB
Il Gattopardo
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
BEEFBAR
New Year’s Eve at Beefbar adopts a ‘glitter night’ theme for 2025, with a la carte dining, live music and a vibrant atmosphere befitting of the final night of the year. Set against the backdrop of the Burj Al Arab fireworks, minimum spends start from Dhs800.
Jumeirah Al Naseem, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs800 min spend bar, Dhs1,200 min spend terrace, Dhs1,500 min spend dining room. Tel: (0)4 423 2238. @beefbar_dubai
BILLIONAIRE DUBAI
Dazzling dinner and a show Billionaire may have a new location, but you can expect the same wow-worthy dining and entertainment experience at the new venue in Mandarin Oriental Downtown. They turn up the heat on New Year’s Eve with a set menu, glass of bubbly for the countdown, and a sensational show of singers, dancers and acrobatics. Mandarin Oriental Downtown, 9pm, Dec 31, from Dhs3,800. Tel: (0)54 329 4984. @billionairedubai
BISOU
Against the dramatic backdrop of the Burj Khalifa fireworks, guests will be treated to a four-course set menu, accompanied by soft drinks and two glasses of Champagne. Live entertainment adds to the glamour, promising an evening of elegance and an excellent view of Dubai’s most iconic firework display. Dubai Opera Plaza, Downtown Dubai, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,000. Tel: 058 140 6888. @bisou.dubai
Atlantis, The Palm
Bisou
Unwrap Joy This Festive Season
Embrace the joy of the season as the holidays sparkle to life. From festive feasts to vibrant celebrations, explore exclusive offers for a truly unforgettable season.
Cluster J, Jumeirah Lakes Towers
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
BLA BLA
A retro New Year’s Eve party takes over Bla Bla on JBR, taking guests on a musical journey through the decades from the 1970s to the present day. Expect an unforgettable night filled with live music, DJs, roaming entertainment, and breathtaking views of the Ain Dubai fireworks.
The Beach, JBR, 7pm, Dec 31, from Dhs500 minimum spend bars, from Dhs800 set menu in the restaurant. Tel: (0)58 606 3535. @blabladubai
BOHEMIA
Dance your way into 2026 with globally renowned DJ Sonny Fodera, who takes over the decks at Bohemia. After his sold-out show earlier this season at FIVE Palm, Sonny Fodera returns to close out the year with global hits including Asking, You & I, One Night, and Somedays.
FIVE Palm Jumeirah, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs400 ladies, Dhs500 gents, Dhs500 dancefloor access with two drinks. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @bohemiabyfive
Bla Bla
Bohemia
THE BOLT HOLE
Villanova’s beloved community pub, The Bolt Hole will serve up a family-friendly celebration with a festive buffet, lively entertainment and free-flowing drinks on December 31. Villanova, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs295 soft, Dhs425 house, Dhs525 sparkling, Dhs95 children four to 12. Tel: (800) 666 353. @theboltholedubai
BULL & BEAR
Welcome 2026 with an elegant five-course New Years Eve Gala Dinner featuring caviar, seafood, and wagyu highlights, complemented by live music and Burj Khalifa fireworks.
Waldorf Astoria DIFC, 7pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs1,200. Tel: (0)4 515 9888. @waldorfdifc
BUSSOLA
Ring in the New Year the Italian way with a gala dinner at Bussola. Evenings begin with smoked salmon topped with black truffle and king crab with caviar, followed by carnaroli risotto with scallops or seared veal rack, and concluding with a raspberry mousse. As midnight approaches, raise a glass to 2026 as the Dubai fireworks illuminate the sky.
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,290. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @bussoladubai
CANARY CLUB
Welcome 2026 under the JLT skyline at Canary Club, where coastal California meets Latin flair. Guests can dine from Dhs595 per person in the restaurant or head upstairs to the rooftop terrace from Dhs795 per person, complete with live beats, signature Latin-American-inspired bites, and flowing cocktails.
Banyan Tree Residences, JLT, 8pm, Dec 31, from Dhs595 restaurant, from Dhs795 rooftop.
Tel: (0)4 584 5999. @canaryclubdxb
Bussola
The Bolt Hole
Bull & Bear
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
CALA VISTA
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a luxurious five-course Italian set menu by the Arabian Gulf, complemented by live performances from 30 entertainers, including a live band, percussionists, dancers, and a DJ. Enjoy the spectacular fireworks show and exclusive access to the after-party, with an open bar until 2am. Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, 8pm to 12.30am, after-party until 2am, Dec 31, Dhs6,500 adults, Dhs3,250 children four to 11. Tel: (800) 323232. @calavistadubai
CASA AMOR
For its second Dubai season, Casa Amor invites families to ring in 2026 on the shorefront of Mandarin Oriental Jumeira. A set menu inspired by the Mediterranean invites guests to dine and imbibe, followed by a midnight ritual on the beach and dancing into the early hours. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs1,500. Tel: (0)4 777 2233. @casaamordubai
Casa Amor
Clay Dubai
CÉ LA VI
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
CÉ LA VI
With a Michelin-recognised menu, prime Burj Khalifa firework views, and a sensational performance from Britain’s Got Talent stars, Jack Pack, CE LA VI is all set to host one of the most show-stopping New Year’s Eve parties in town.
Address Sky View, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs5,000 min spend. Tel: (0)4 582 6111. @celavidubai
CHEZ WAM
Head to Chef Hadrien’s for a set menu of inventive dishes in a cosy and inviting setting on December 31. There’s a minimum spend of Dhs895, a DJ spinning retro 80s and 90s hits, and firework views at midnight from the terrace. St Regis Gardens, 6pm, Dec 31, Dhs895 min spend. Tel: (0)4 410 6707. @chezwamdubai
CHINA TANG
China Tang Dubai invites guests to welcome the New Year with an exclusive à la carte menu available only on December 31 – featuring signature dishes served against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa’s dazzling fireworks. As midnight strikes, the festivities continue with live performances by DJ Simo Sax and a lively afterparty in the upstairs lounge.
The Lana Promenade, Business Bay, 6pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,500 min spend indoors, Dhs2,500 min spend outdoors. Tel: (0)4 295 7464. @chinatang_dubai
CITRONELLE
Roar into 2026 with Citronelle’s Tiger Brunch NYE Edition. Feast on Asian-inspired delights, sip on curated beverages, and celebrate with friends in a stylish, energetic setting. SO/ Uptown Dubai, 8pm to 11pm, Dec 31, Dhs499 soft, Dhs589 house, Dhs689 bubbly. Tel: (0)4 820 8888. @citronelle.dxb
CLAY DUBAI
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at CLAY Dubai with live entertainment, including a DJ, dancers, and a percussionist, paired with a signature Nikkeiinspired menu. Enjoy stunning views of Ain Dubai, the island’s drone show, and spectacular fireworks, making it an unforgettable night. Bluewaters, 7pm to 2am, Dec 31, from Dhs800 min spend. Tel: (0)4 422 5600. @claydubai
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
CQ BRASSERIE
Bid farewell to 2025 with Parisian flair at CQ French Brasserie. Whether you’re gathering for a celebratory dinner or pre-party drinks before the countdown, CQ sets the mood with its timeless French charm, menu of classic comfort food and festive spirit. There’s a Dhs399 minimum spend per person.
Mövenpick Hotel, Cluster A, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs399 minimum spend. Tel: (0)4 514 9339. @cqfrenchbrasserie
DREAM
DREAM Dubai’s spectacular plans for New Year’s Eve 2026, promising an unforgettable night of luxury, theatre, and celebration. Guests will indulge in a 10-course sharingstyle menu showcasing oysters, truffle burrata with caviar, Canadian lobster, Angus beef tenderloin and more, paired with free-flowing beverages from 9pm to 1am. The celebration continues with bottle service until 4am, with a few DREAM-style surprises along the way. Address Beach Resort, JBR, 9pm to 1am, Dec 31, from Dhs3,000. Tel: (0)4 220 0224. @dreamdubai
CQ Brasserie
DREAM
Drift Dubai
DRIFT DUBAI
A sparkling New Year’s Eve awaits at DRIFT Sea Lounge, featuring vibrant entertainment, a luxurious Provençal menu and a spectacular fireworks display. Embrace the sparkle of the evening with a silver-themed dress code, whilst enjoying a premium selection of beverages, live performances and a DJ setting the perfect festive mood.
One&Only Royal Mirage, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,500 minimum spend. Tel: (0)4 315 2200. @driftbeachdubai
DUKES THE PALM
A spectacular dinner on the shores of Palm Jumeirah, this gala dinner promises a brilliant buffet, dancing until the early hours, and views of the fireworks across Marina and Palm Jumeirah.
Dukes The Palm, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs2,200 house, Dhs2,700 premium, Dhs1,600 teens, Dhs990 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 455 1111. @dukesthepalm
ELAIA
The newest addition to Pier 7’s gourmet offering, Elaia welcomes 2026 with an elegant three-course menu of Mediterranean flavours. Sharing starters and desserts are paired with an a la carte choice of mains plus free-flowing drinks.
One of Dubai’s premier New Year’s Eve celebrations is back and better than ever. The night unfolds on the lawns of Emirates Golf Club with performances from Abri, Mica Paris and Matt West on sax. Guests will indulge in a lavish buffet and flowing beverages, as anticipation builds to the spectacular midnight fireworks display that lights up the Dubai skyline.
See in 2026 with a festive, family-friendly celebration at Eugene Eugene. Embrace a chic French greenhouse-style setting, and choose between a set menu for Dhs350, or go a la carte. No minimum spend required.
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs350 food only. Tel: (0)4 379 8963. @eugeneeugenedubai
FAIRMONT THE PALM
Ring in the New Year with a lavish buffet at Flow Kitchen, featuring international favourites, festive specials and a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere. Choose from indoor or outdoor seating, and be entertained by a live DJ and four-piece band.
Fairmont The Palm, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,200 soft, from Dhs1,400 house, from Dhs1,600 sparkling, from Dhs800 children six to 12, from Dhs500 children three to five.
Tel: (0)4 457 3388. @fairmontthepalm
Elaia
Eugène Eugène
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
FIVE JUMEIRAH VILLAGE
Step into 2026 in true Soul St. style with a lively New Year’s Eve Gala. Known as Dubai’s hottest street food destination, you’ll tuck into mouthwatering live food stations, sip on unlimited drinks and dance the night away with a live DJ and top-tier entertainment.
FIVE Jumeirah Village, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs999. Tel: (0)4 455 9988. @soulstreetdubai
FIVE LUXE
A duo of high-octane performances invite guests to enjoy a night of music, glamour and unforgettable fun at FIVE LUXE. Grammywinning house legend Roger Sanchez takes the stage alongside Gipsy King Chico Castillo, the voice behind Bamboleo and Djobi, Djoba. For one night only, FIVE LUXE JBR’s outdoor area transforms into a stunning stage, offering prime views of the Arabian Gulf and Ain Dubai along with a 7-minute fireworks display. With lavish food stations and worldclass entertainment, this is the ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration in JBR.
FIVE LUXE, JBR, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,500 adults, Dhs1,000 children. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @fiveluxejbr
FIVE Jumeirah Village
FIVE LUXE
FIVE PALM JUMEIRAH
Make your final celebration of 2025 one to remember with a spectacular feast featuring live cooking stations, global culinary classics, a sushi showcase, BBQ favourites, and more. The night comes alive with dazzling entertainment, including a live band, singers, dancers, and a DJ spinning high-energy beats as the countdown begins. For the grand finale, take in uninterrupted views of Dubai’s breathtaking fireworks.
FIVE Palm Jumeirah, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,500 adults, Dhs1,000 children. Tel: (0)4 445 9999. @fivepalmjumeirah
FISH BEACH TAVERNA
Ring in the New Year seaside at Fish Beach Taverna, where Mediterranean magic meets festive celebration. Indulge in a seafoodinspired dinner bursting with Aegean flavours, paired with refreshing cocktails and a breezy coastal ambience.
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, 8.30pm to 12.30am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,290. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @fishdubai
FOGUERIA
Welcome 2026 Rio style at this rooftop spot on JBR. The night begins with a glass of sparkling, followed by a vibrant churrascaria experience, with succulent meats served tableside and drinks flowing until midnight. A live band and samba dancers create a memorable atmosphere. Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach, 6pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs999 soft, Dhs1,299 house, Dhs1,799 sparkling. Tel: (0)50 189 6214. @fogueira.dxb
FOUR SEASONS RESORT AT JUMEIRAH BEACH
A chic celebration by the shore toasts to 2026 at Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach. Sip on welcome drinks in the pretty surrounds of Jou Jou Brasserie from 7pm, then head to the lavish buffet and dance beneath the stars on the resort’s lawn. Midnight fireworks add to the memorable moments.
Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,800 soft, Dhs4,500 premium, Dhs1,375 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 270 7950. @fsdubai
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
GARDEN ON 8
This New Year’s Eve, the garden turns neon for a Glow on 8 party. From 8pm to 1am, enjoy live food stations, unlimited drinks for five hours, glow paint, bold colours, games, and fireworks visible from the garden. DJ Jono keeps the vibe alive with countdowns from around the world.
Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs299 house, Dhs299 premium. Tel: (0)52 144 7438. @gardenon8dxb
GIGI RIGOLATTO
Expect an extraordinary night filled with live performers, DJ sets, a dazzling fireworks display, and plenty of stylish surprises. Guests can indulge in an exclusive menu crafted for the occasion. Think carabineros with béarnaise and caviar, Rossini filetto with foie gras and black truffle, and a decadent red berry mille-feuille.
J1 Beach, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs3,500 min spend. Tel: (0)4 498 3900. @gigi_beach_dubai
Gigi Rigolatto
Girl and the Goose
Garden on 8
GINGER MOON
A vibrant New Year’s Eve dinner and after party bring the vibes to Ginger Moon on December 31. Enjoy stunning marina views, free-flowing Champagne and new Californian cuisine. Think red prawn carpaccio, slow-cooked Wagyu rib and chocolate churros. As the clock nears midnight, the energy turns up with a lively poolside after-party complete with DJ beats and handcrafted cocktails.
W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Al Sufouh, 8.45pm to 12.30am dinner, 10pm to 2am after-party, from Dhs990 dinner, from Dhs350 after-party. Tel: (0)50 794 3078. @gingermoondxb
GIRL AND THE GOOSE
Acclaimed chef Gabriela Chamorro welcomes guests to her restaurant’s first-ever New Year’s Eve celebration, bringing the heart of Central America to Dubai. With a minimum spend of Dhs399 per person, savour dishes such as the red snapper passionfruit ceviche or lobster bisque yuca gnocchi.
Grand Ceremonia is Gitano Dubai’s onenight-only New Year’s Eve celebration of flavour, fire, and flair. Guests will dine and dance beneath the stars with elevated modern Mexican cuisine, live Mariachi performances, and DJ sets leading to a spectacular midnight fireworks display at J1 Beach.
J1 Beach, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs995 house, Dhs1,500 premium, Dhs2,026 Champagne (all indoor), Dhs1,500 (terrace and beach minimum spend). Tel: (0)58 566 2320.
@gitanodubai
Gitano
Ginger Moon
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
AL HABTOOR GRAND, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
Dine, dance and celebrate under the stars with the gala dinner at Habtoor Grand. Taking over the resort lawn, live performances, unlimited drinks and a festive menu await guests. Habtoor Grand, Autograph Collection, 7pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs1,950 adults, Dhs950 children six to 12. @alhabtoorgrandresort
HANU
HANU’s first New Year’s Eve celebration invites guests to enjoy contemporary Korean cuisine at St Regis Gardens. On December 31, HANU will present a special à la carte and festive set menu crafted by Chef Kyung Soo Moon. Each dish blends artistry and cultural heritage, reflecting HANU’s signature balance between modern craftsmanship and Korean tradition. As the evening unfolds, guests can enjoy live DJ performances and spectacular views of the Atlantis fireworks, visible from HANU’s terrace. St Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, 6pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,200 min spend. Tel: (0)4 278 4844. @hanu_dubai
HIGH SOCIETY
High Society is The Lana’s impressive rooftop pool and restaurant lounge, offering a tranquil setting with panoramic views of Downtown Dubai, including Burj Khalifa. Guests are invited to usher in the new year in true High Society style, where elegance, music and unforgettable moments come together.
The Lana, Dorchester Collection, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,000 minimum spend. Tel: (0)4 541 7755. @highsocietyatthelana
HILLHOUSE BRASSERIE & THE DUCK HOOK
Bid farewell to 2025 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration shared between Hillhouse Brasserie and The Duck Hook at Dubai Hills Golf Club. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Dubai skyline and watch the city’s fireworks light up the night sky from the expansive outdoor terraces at both venues, while indulging in a buffetstyle dinner featuring festive specials and international flavours. A selection of premium beverage packages and live performances from singers, guitarists, and saxophonists will set the scene for an unforgettable evening of celebration.
Guests are invited to glam up for a night at the Oscar’s with Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah’s glamourous gala dinner. A lavish buffet and live culinary stations offer added wow-factor, with dazzling entertainment to raise your glasses to.
Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs2,200 adults, Dhs1,100 children six to 11, Dhs400 children three to five. Tel: (0)4 230 0073. @hiltondubaipalm
INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI MARINA
Welcome 2026 with live music, a lavish buffet, sparkling beverages, and breathtaking views at Accents. Celebrate in style as you bid farewell to 2025 and step into the New Year with unforgettable memories.
InterContinental Dubai Marina, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs695 sparkling, Dhs945 Champagne.
Tel: (0)4 446 6669. @icdubaimarina
ISOLA RISTORANTE
Ring in 2026 with flair at Isola Ristorante’s Capodanno celebration. The evening features a specially curated festive menu and live entertainment, followed by a DJ set from DJ Josho, set against the elegant backdrop of Jumeirah Islands.
Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs500 adults, Dhs250 children five to 10.
Tel: (0)4 583 3124. @isolaristorantdubai
JA BEACH HOTEL
Don your most eye-catching attire and step back into the roaring 20s as you ring in the new year in style at JA Beach Hotel’s Great Gatsby Gala Dinner. Transforming Palmito Garden into a glittering haven, the celebration kicks off with a sumptuous dinner paired with free-flowing pours and dazzling performances from live bands, DJs, and dancers. Finally, as the clock strikes 12, the sky above ignites in a sea of colour with a spectacular fireworks display.
JA Beach Hotel, Jebel Ali, 7pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs2,000, Dhs1,000 children four to 12. Tel: (0)4 814 5604. @jaresorts
JARA BY MARTÍN BERASATEGUI
Ring in the new year with a masterfully crafted six-course menu inspired by authentic Basque cuisine, paired with free-flowing Champagne, and striking views of the Burj Khalifa as the clock strikes twelve.
The Lana, Dorchester Collection, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs4,950. Tel: 04 541 7755 @jarabymartinberasategui
Isola Ristorante
Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah
JETTY LOUNGE
Celebrate the arrival of 2026 in true coastal style at Jetty Lounge, where barefoot elegance meets seaside glamour. Guests are invited to savour handcrafted festive cocktails, free-flowing beverages, and a selection of gourmet canapés, while listening to the sound of a live DJ and enjoying the sophisticated seaside ambience. One&Only Royal Mirage, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs1,750. Tel: (0)4 315 2414. @jettylounge
JONES THE GROCER AT HILTON
DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH
Welcome 2026 with Jones the Grocer’s memorable all-white party at Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah. Enjoy a festive buffet, live music, and a front-row view of the fireworks display by the beach. Expect great food, vibrant energy, and unbeatable views of the Dubai Marina skyline for the midnight fireworks. Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs899 soft, Dhs1,199 house, Dhs1,499 premium, Dhs549 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 230 0038. @jonesthegrocer
JUMEIRAH AL QASR
Celebrate the final night of the year in grandeur at Al Qasr’s spectacular gala dinner. Guests can indulge in an opulent international buffet with live cooking stations and an array of freeflowing beverages, all set to the sounds of a live band. Enjoy mesmerising views of the fireworks illuminating the iconic Burj Al Arab for a truly unforgettable evening.
Jumeirah Al Qasr, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs5,500 house, Dhs3,000 children four to 11. Tel: (800) 323232. @jumeirahalqasr
Hilton
Jetty Lounge
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY
Enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere and decadent meal this New Year’s Eve. Begin the evening with a cocktail reception, followed by a five-course set menu paired with your choice of beverages at the Zabeel Theatre gala dinner.
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, 7.30pm to 11.30pm, Dec 31, Dhs3,850 house, Dhs6,500 premium, Dhs9,500 Champagne, half price for children five to 16. Tel: (0)4 453 0444.
@jumeirahzabeelsaray
JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOTEL DUBAI
The terrace at Aqua transforms into a chic poolside setting for the final night of the year. Welcome 2026 with free-flowing drinks, gourmet dining, and a sophisticated alfresco setting. Packages run until 12am, with a cash bar until 2.30am.
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, 7pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs895 soft, Dhs1,200 house, Dhs1,500 Champagne, Dhs495 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 414 0000. @jwmarriottmarquisdubai
KEMPINSKI CENTRAL AVENUE
Enjoy live music and an international buffet with Middle Eastern flair, complemented by interactive cooking stations and grills, all set against the breathtaking spectacle of Burj Khalifa fireworks. Be mesmerised by captivating performances from Pamela Farhat & her band, followed by energetic DJ sets, belly dancing, and a vibrant Dabkeh Tabla show.
Kempinski Hotel Central Avenue, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs3,250. Tel: (0)50 523 4086.
@kempinskicentralavenue
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
KIRA
On December 31, guests are invited to board The KIRA Midnight Express. The evening begins at KIRA’s reception, where a beautifully reimagined train carriage, then, from 8pm, guests can savour signature dishes, complemented by premium bottle packages, as the celebration unfolds across the restaurant and terrace. As the night gains momentum, a live band, DJ, and dancers bring vibrant energy to the festivities, leading up to a breathtaking fireworks display, the perfect finale to 2025.
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,500 min spend bar, Dhs3,500 min spend lounge, Dhs6,000 min spend dining. @kirarestaurant
KYMA
Step into 2026 in style with a New Year’s Eve celebration by the beach. A Greek-inspired set menu with Mediterranean delicacies, panoramic views of the fireworks, and vibrant live entertainment, featuring DJ, singers, and musicians - this is how Kyma celebrates the most-awaited night of the year.
Palm West Beach, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,400 soft, Dhs1,800 premium, Dhs1,200 children under 12. Tel: (0)4 666 5999. @kymabeachdubai
L’AMO BISTRO DEL MARE
Enjoy a front row view to the fireworks that illuminate the Dubai Marina skies from the terrace of L’Amo Bistro Del Mare. Adorned in festive elegance, guests can dine on the a la carte menu masterminded by chef Alessandro Salvatico while listening to the sounds of a four-piece band.
Dubai Harbour, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,500 min spend indoors, Dhs3,000 min spend outdoors, Dhs500 min spend children. Tel: (0)4 278 4800. @lamobistrodelmare
LA CAMERA! BY TOTÓ
For one final fiesta of 2025, La Camera! By TOTÓ transforms into a buzzing Europeaninspired celebration. Expect electric energy, flowing Champagne, and a crowd that came to dance their way into 2026, dolce vita style. Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, 9pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs650. Tel: (0)4 215 2121. @lacamerabytoto
LA CANTINE BEACH
For New Year’s Eve, festive French cuisine with vibrant beats await in a chic coastal setting at La Cantine Beach. Guests are invited to dine beneath the stars with a thoughtfully curated New Year’s Eve set menu that features options like the king crab and fennel, grilled Wagyu tournedo and a 24 karat chocolate cake. Enjoy a Champagne toast at midnight and dancing until the early hours with an after-party at Gohan or Rose Bar.
Bluewaters, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,500. Tel: (0)4 556 6622. @lacantinebeachdubai
La Cantine Beach
KIRA
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
LA PETITE MAISON
Celebrate in style with a white & gold masquerade party at LPM. Guests are invited to wear their finest attire and masks for a night of live music and entertainment by the dynamic duo “Mr. & Mrs” and a resident DJ. Gate Village, DIFC, 6pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,000 min spend. Tel: (0)4 439 0505. @lpmdubai
LAH LAH
A Pan-Asian style buffet and free-flowing drinks. That’s the plan for December 31 at beloved neighbourhood eatery Lah Lah at Zabeel House The Greens. Live stations serve up favourites like Peking duck, dim sum and pad Thai. A DJ, saxophonist and fire dancers keep the energy high.
Zabeel House The Greens, 8.30pm to 12.30am, Dec 31, Dhs595 soft, Dhs725 house, Dhs895 sparkling, Dhs185 children five to 12. Tel: (0)4 519 1151. @lahlahdxb
LION IN THE SUN
Newly opened at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Lion in the Sun will offer a family-friendly seating from 6pm to 8.30pm, followed by an adults-only black tie dinner from 9pm. The second sitting offers a set menu, a complimentary glass of Champagne and spectacular fireworks views.
Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Sheikh Zayed Road, 9pm, Dec 31, from Dhs2,750. Tel: (0)56 573 8283. @lioninthesundubai
LUNA DUBAI
This sophisticated rooftop bar at Four Seasons DIFC promises prime Burj Khalifa firework views, craft cocktails and an array of elegant plates. There’s a minimum spend of Dhs500 for guests from 8pm to 11pm, or those arriving from 11pm to 3am can expect to spend a minimum of Dhs800. It’s strictly adults only. Four Seasons DIFC, Gate Village, 8pm to 3am, Dec 31, Dhs500 min spend 8pm to 11pm, from Dhs800 min spend from 11pm to 3am. Tel: (0)4 270 7968. @lunadubai
MAIDEN SHANGHAI
The multi-award-winning Naughty Noodles Brunch dials up the wow-factor for a New Year’s Eve special. Where exceptional Chinese cuisine meets non-stop entertainment in a night of pure excitement, feast on a decadent spread of flavours, indulge in premium beverages, and revel in a vibrant atmosphere that will keep you partying into the New Year.
FIVE Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs950 sparkling indoor, Dhs1,500 sparkling first floor outdoor, Dhs2,500 premium rooftop, Dhs800 children five to 12. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @secretpartiesdxb
Luna Dubai
Maiden Shanghai
THE MAINE LAND BRASSERIE, THE MAINE OYSTER BAR & GRILL, THE MAINE STREET EATERY
Ring in the New Year with The MAINE’s signature flair. Each of the restaurant’s three venues serves up a seated dinner offering a set menu with open bar until 1am, plus a bottle of bubbly to toast to the start of 2026 in style.
ME Dubai, The Opus, Business Bay, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs990. Tel: (0)4 577 6680. @themainedxb
DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs650. Tel: (0)4 457 6719.
@themainedxb
Studio One Hotel, Studio City, 8pm to 1am, Dhs650. Tel: (0)4 557 2468. @themainedxb
MAISON REVKA
On New Year’s Eve, guests are invited to ring in 2026 in quintessential Maison Revka style. Think exquisite cuisine, sparkling Champagne, and Dubai’s dazzling skyline as the ultimate backdrop. This year’s theme is ‘A Timeless New Year’s Eve’, and as the evening unfolds, the venue transforms into a haven of effortless sophistication.
Delano Dubai, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,500 min spend outdoor, Dhs3,000 min spend indoor. Tel: (0)4 543 2900. @maisonrevka_dubai
MAUSAM
With prime Burj Khalifa views from its terrace, Mausam is an enviable spot for New Year’s Eve in Dubai. There will be a multicourse menu and a DJ setting the tone, with seating priced from Dhs3,000 indoors and Dhs4,000 for outdoor seating.
The Dubai Mall, 6pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs3,000 min spend indoor, Dhs4,000 min spend outdoors. Tel: (0)4 438 4001.
@mausamdubai
MCGETTIGAN’S FACTORY THE PALM
Ring in the New Year at McGettigan’s Factory with friends and family. Enjoy a festive sharing menu, live band, and fun-filled vibes. Celebrate the night the Irish way with great food, flowing drinks, and plenty of craic to keep the party going till the early hours.
Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs399 soft, Dhs549 house, Dhs699 prmeium, Dhs249 children six to 11.
Tel: (0)4 230 0073.
THE MEAT CO
World-class steaks, fine seafood and exceptional drinks are the stars of the show at The Meat Co, a fine dining gem in Madinat Jumeirah. Set along the waterfront, the evening features a curated à la carte menu, live DJ music and stunning views of the Jumeirah fireworks.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, 8pm to 12am, Dhs800 min spend indoors, from Dhs1,500 min spend outdoors, Dhs150 min spend children under 12. Tel: (0)4 368 6040.
@themeatcome
The MAINE Land Brasserie, The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill, The MAINE Street Eatery
McGettigan’s Factory The Palm
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
MEI
MEI will ring in 2026 with an elegant New Year’s Eve celebration set against the sparkling Madinat waterways and the iconic Burj Al Arab. Guests can enjoy a vibrant night of music with a roaming band, live percussionist, and DJ leading the countdown.
Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, 7pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,000 min spend bar, Dhs2,500 min spend indoor dining, Dhs4,000 min spend outdoor dining. Tel: (0)58 691 0029. @mei.dxb
MELIA DESERT PALM
Set on the Grand Portico Terrace, overlooking the estate’s palm-lined pathways and gently lit polo fields, guests can welcome 2026 with a five-course set menu paired with free-flowing drinks and music from a duo band and DJ, soundtracking a memorable night.
Melia Desert Palm, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dh449 soft, Dhs649 house, Dhs849 Champagne, Dhs210 children six to 12. Tel: (0)50 170 6138. @meliadesertpalm
MEZZANINE
A brilliant British gastropub in the Madinat, Mezzanine pairs a three-course meal of classics with four hours of unlimited drinks. A live DJ and prime firework views add to the festive ambience.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs495. Tel: (0)58 599 4659.
@mezzaninedubai
MI AMIE
Set against captivating views of Dubai’s skyline and the Museum of the Future, Mi Amie is a vibrant spot for Latin and Japanese flavours, free-flowing drinks and a high-octane ambience complete with DJs, dancers and a saxophonist.
Emirates Towers, DIFC, 8pm to 11pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,599 soft, Dhs1,949 premium, Dhs899 drinks-only. @secretpartiesdxb
MIMI KAKUSHI
Be transported to 1920s Shanghai for an opulent celebration on New Year’s Eve with lively DJ beats, sparkling skyline views and Mimi Kakushi’s signature gourmet dining. There’s a minimum spend of Dhs995 in the restaurant, Dhs550 for the bar and sushi counter, or opt for the special New Year’s set menu for Dhs1,100.
Four Seasons Restaurant Village, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,100 food only. Tel: (0)4 379 4811.
@mimikakushi
Mezzanine
Mimi Kakushi
MERCURY LOUNGE
Mercury Rooftop promises a vibrant New Year’s Eve beneath the stars, with sweeping 180-degree views that capture the fireworks over both the Dubai skyline and the sea. Guests will be treated to festive cocktails, gourmet canapés, and live DJ sets that carry the celebration into the early hours.
Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,600 soft, Dhs1,300 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 270 7950. @mercurydubai
MONKEY BAR
This vibrant rooftop bar invites guests to an affordable New Year’s Eve party, with entry tickets starting from Dhs250, including a welcome drink. Those looking to book tables can expect minimum spends from Dhs700. 25hours Hotel One Central, 9pm, Dec 31, entry from Dhs250, tables from Dhs700 min spend. Tel: (0)56 508 9855. @25hourshoteldubai
NETSU
Ring in the New Year with Omisoka, Japan’s traditional end-of-year celebration, reimagined with Netsu’s signature flair. The evening begins with a lavish sharing-style dinner accompanied by live band and DJ performances.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs995 lounge seating. Tel: (0)4 777 2232. @netsudubai
Mercury Lounge
Monkey Bar
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
NINIVE
Ring in the New Year under the stars at Ninive, with an evening of a la carte dining, live entertainment and beats from a live DJ. Indulge in a menu that traverses the Middle East and North Africa, then dance the night away in the beautiful open-air setting.
Jumeirah Emirates Towers, DIFC, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs950 min spend. Tel: (0)4 326 6105. @ninivedubai
NUSKA
Dine on Mediterranean and Levantine flavours in a stunning seaside setting at Nuska. A set menu features highlights like Wagyu carpaccio, lobster manti and black truffle chocolate mousse. Premium drinks and firework views add to the festive ambience.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs5,500 adults, Dhs3,000 children. Tel: (800) 323232. @nuskadubai
ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE
As the final sunset of the year fades over The Palace Gardens, One&Only Royal Mirage invites guests to welcome 2026 in spectacular style. Beneath twinkling lights and swaying palms, the evening begins with a lavish welcome of oysters, caviar, and champagne. A sumptuous four-course dinner follows, with an eleven-piece band setting the rhythm for the night, carrying guests from dinner to an enchanting afterparty beneath the stars.
One&Only Royal Mirage, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, from Dhs4,000. Tel: (0)4 315 2414. @ooroyalmirage
PARK HYATT DUBAI
Welcome 2026 in timeless glamour as Park Hyatt Dubai marks its 20th anniversary with The Great Gala of the 20s, an unforgettable evening inspired by the elegance and extravagance of the Roaring Twenties, complete with a lavish Traiteur-style dinner, free-flowing champagne and live entertainment.
Park Hyatt Dubai, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs2,800 adults, Dhs1,400 children. Tel: (0)4 602 1814. @parkhyattdubai
PIATTI BY THE BEACH
For a night of coastal glamour, Piatti by the Beach fuses the warmth of Italian hospitality with Dubai’s legendary celebratory spirit. Guests can enjoy a sharing-style Italian feast, live entertainment, and sweeping views of fireworks from The Palm to Burj Khalifa. As the clock strikes midnight, the restaurant transforms into a lively disco with à la carte drinks served until 3am.
Raffles The Palm, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 12.30am, Dec 31, from Dhs2,200 adults, Dhs1,500 teenagers, Dhs1,100 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 248 8889. @piattibythebeach
Ninive
Piatti by the Beach
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
PIERCHIC
Pierchic presents an elegant gala dinner featuring a luxurious five-course menu, live entertainment, and stunning views of the fireworks. The party continues until 1am. Jumeirah Al Qasr, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs6,500. Tel: (800) 323232. @pierchicdubai
QE2
Bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 in one of Dubai’s most iconic venues, the Queens Room. Savour the global flavours of our gala dinner buffet, paired with live entertainment and unlimited drinks. At midnight, head to Pavilion and the boat deck, to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine as Dubai’s spectacular fireworks light up the night sky.
QE2, Mina Rashid, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs575 soft, Dhs775 house, Dhs250 children 8 to 12. Tel: (0)4 526 8835. @qe2dubai
RAFFLES DUBAI
Welcome 2026 in the ballroom of Raffles Dubai, featuring captivating live entertainment, free-flowing drinks and festive delights for an unforgettable start to the New Year.
Wafi, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs495 soft, Dhs695 house, Dhs275 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 324 8888. @rafflesdubai
RAFFLES THE PALM
Step into the stars this New Year’s Eve as Raffles The Palm Dubai presents A Journey Beyond Midnight. Inspired by the cosmos, the Raffles lawn will be transformed into an elegant celestial stage, setting the tone for the year ahead to be beautiful, elegant and full of sparkle.
West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, 7.30pm to 1am, Dec 31, from Dhs2,800 house, from Dhs3,000 Champagne, from Dhs2,400 teenagers, from Dhs1,400 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 248 8888. @rafflespalmdubai
ROKA
Celebrate the new year at ROKA Dubai with a vibrant night of modern Japanese dining, live DJ sets from 9pm, and panoramic views of the city skyline. Enjoy à la carte or premium tasting menus featuring ROKA’s signature dishes and exclusive New Year’s Eve specials, from black cod to wagyu rib eye. There’s a family-friendly seating from 6pm to 8.30pm, then it’s adultsonly from 9pm.
ME Dubai, The Opus, Business Bay, 6pm to 8.30pm or 9pm onwards, Dec 31, Dhs800 minimum spend (indoor), Dhs1,200 minimum spend (terrace). Tel: (0)4 439 7171 . @rokadubaiofficial
RÜYA
Anatolian flavours and a festive ambience, that’s what guests can look forward to at Rüya this New Year’s Eve. A curated menu, freeflowing drinks and live entertainment start from Dhs995.
St Regis Dubai The Palm, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs995 indoor, Dhs1,395 outdoor, Dhs495 children under 12. Tel: (0)56 501 4827. @ruyadubai
Raffles The Palm
SALMON GURU
This colourful cocktail bar in the ME Dubai promises a fun-filled take on the final night of the year, with unconventional cocktails, bold bites and views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks from the outside terrace.
ME Dubai, The Opus, Business Bay, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs500 minimum spend. Tel: (0)52 814 9537. @salmongurudubai
SĀN BEACH
A chic beachfront celebration on Palm West Beach is the plan for December 31 at SAN. Expect refined dining, captivating entertainment, and a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a sharing set menu curated by Chef Rizwan and a night filled with music, fire dancers, and a magician performing throughout the evening. The Club, Palm West Beach, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,000 food-only. Tel: (0)4 458 0499. @sanbeach.dubai
SHANGRI-LA DUBAI
Ring in the New Year beneath Dubai’s dazzling sky with front-row views of the Burj Khalifa and its spectacular fireworks. At Shangri-La Dubai’s iKandy lounge, packages start from Dhs1,600, while Horizon 42 rates start from Dhs2,500.
Shangri-La, Sheikh Zayed Road, 8pm to 12.30am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,600 iKandy, from Dhs2,500 Horizon 42. Tel: (0)4 405 2703. @shangrila_dubai
SHI
This New Year’s Eve, guests at SHI will enjoy an evening of seasonally-inspired dishes and dazzling entertainment. Offering a breathtaking, panoramic view of the sea and stunning views of the annual fireworks display, prices start from Dhs1,000 per person. Bluewaters, 8pm, Dec 31, from Dhs1,000. Tel: (0)4 393 9990. @shi.dxb
SHIMMERS
Ring in the New Year with a beachfront dining experience at Shimmers, featuring a five-course Greek-Mediterranean sharingstyle menu. Enjoy live performances from a live band, percussionists, dancers, and a DJ, followed by a stunning fireworks display. After dinner, continue the celebration at the exclusive after-party with an open bar until 2am.
Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, 8pm to 12.30am, after-party until 2am, Dec 31, Dhs6,500 adults, Dhs3,250 children eight to 11. Tel: (800) 323232. @calavistadubai
Salmon Guru
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
SMOKI MOTO
Enjoy a gourmet four-course sharing menu, welcome drinks, live entertainment and front-row views of Dubai’s fireworks this year at Smoki Moto. Guests can enjoy the DJ, live vocalist and fully interactive dining experiences at the premium grill tables, indoor lounges, terrace tables or private dining rooms.
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 12.30am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,850. Tel: (0)4 666 1417. @smokimotodubai
SOFITEL DUBAI DOWNTOWN
Ring in 2026 with fine flavours and unforgettable views from Sofitel Dubai Downtown’s gala dinner. Dine on an array of international dishes, be entertained by live performances, then tilt your eyes to the skies at midnight for the show-stopping fireworks. Sofitel Dubai Downtown, 7pm to 12am, Dec 31, from Dhs2,299. Tel: (0)4 503 6666. @sofiteldubaidowntown
THE ST REGIS DOWNTOWN
The St Regis invites guests to welcome 2026 with an exclusive New Year’s Eve Gala dinner with a golden era theme. Guests can enjoy towers of seafood, sushi and sweet desserts. The St Regis Downtown, Business Bay, 8pm, Dec 31, from Dhs2,250 adults, Dhs1,650 children. Tel: (0)4 512 5555. @stregisdowntowndubai
Smoki Moto
Sofitel Dubai Downtown
STREETXO
STREETXOLAND dials up the ante for a highenergy New Year’s Eve edition of its vibrant brunch. Dine on an inventive set menu of bold StreetXO dishes and sip free-flowing drinks in a festive setting.
One Za’abeel, 9pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs1,111. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @streetxo.dubai
SUSHISAMBA
Ring in the New Year at dizzying heights with Sambazonia, Sushisamba’s legendary all-white celebration in the sky. Inspired by the Amazon rainforest and Brazil’s vibrant Revellion tradition, the night promises live entertainment, flavourful culinary creations, and signature drinks. As the clock strikes midnight, guests can take in panoramic firework views.
Set within the pretty winding waterways of Madinat Jumeirah, a casual feast of inventive Japanese artistry awaits at Sushiyaki. There’s no set menu, just a minimum spend of Dhs600 for waterfront tables and Dhs400 for nonwaterfront tables. Guests can enjoy great views of the fireworks from the outdoor terrace. Madinat Jumeirah, 7pm, Dec 31, from Dhs400 min spend. Tel: (0)4 451 9170. @sushiyaki.dxb
TAGOMAGO
Set against the best, uninterrupted views of The Burj Al Arab and The Palm Jumeirah fireworks, Tagomago’s Balearic-inspired celebration will be filled with delicious Spanish cuisine, a warm ambiance, and live music to keep the beats flowing. There’s indoor and outdoor seating available, with an open bar until midnight included in the package.
Azure Residences, Palm Jumeirah, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs1,200. Tel: (0)4 832 6620. @tagomagodubai
TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA THE PALM
Dress to impress and step into a sambasoaked celebration at Taj Exotica, with live performances and themed live stations serving up global gourmet delights. When it’s time, watch the iconic Dubai Palm fireworks illuminate the sky.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, East Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, 9pm to 3am, Dec 31, Dhs2,250 adults, Dhs1,450 children. Tel: (0)4 275 4444. @tajpalmdubai
Sushiyaki
StreetXO
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
TASCA
Ring in the New Year with a Michelinstarred menu, a live band, DJ and front-row seats to Dubai’s dazzling fireworks at Tasca. Acclaimed chef Jose Avillez’ rooftop Dubai restaurant provides a stunning vantage point for the midnight spectacle.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs3,250 soft, Dhs4,500 Champagne, Dhs2,500 children four to 11. Tel: (0)4 777 2231. @tascadubai
TATTU DUBAI
For its first New Year’s celebration, Tattu will go all out with three floors of packages. Dining in the 74th floor restaurant from 9pm, pairs a set menu of Japanese fusion flavours with premium drinks with packages from Dhs1,750. A black tie ball at the Tattu Sky Pool from 8.30pm offers signature dishes, free-flowing drinks and a chic open-air setting from Dhs1,750 per person. While the 81st floor sky lounge promises a Champagne experience from 9.30pm with views from 364 metres high, with half bottles of Champagne and signature drinks priced from Dhs1,000.
Ciel Dubai Marina, 8.30pm, Dec 31, from Dhs1,000. Tel: (0)4 498 5400. @tattudubai
TÊTE-À-TÊTE
Putting a fabulously fun French spin on the New Year’s Eve dinner party is Tête-à-Tête . Think a menu of French favourites, freeflowing drinks, and a front row view of the JBR fireworks as the clock strikes twelve.
FIVE LUXE, JBR, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,800. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @teteatetedubai
Tasca
Tattu Dubai
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NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
THIPTARA
Thiptara sets the stage with its intimate Thai-inspired interiors and its unrivalled outdoor terrace overlooking the shimmering Burj Khalifa for a dazzling New Year’s Eve. The evening is elevated by a specially curated four-course set menu, paired with a selection of premium beverages for a truly indulgent experience.
Palace Downtown, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, from Dhs2,950 soft, from Dhs3,550 house, from Dhs1,475 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 428 7961. @palacedowntown
TOTÓ
Ring in the New Year with Italian elegance at TOTÓ. The refined restaurant in Downtown will serve up an a la carte menu with festive specials, complemented by live piano and vocal performances with quintessential Italian flair. At midnight, head out onto the Boulevard to admire the dazzling Burj Khalifa fireworks, then keep the celebrations going at La Camera! By TOTÓ with sips and beats from the guest DJ. Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs800 min spend for the restaurant. Tel: (0)4 215 2121. @totorestaurantdubai
TUTTO PASSA
A Dolce Vita New Year’s Eve awaits at this pretty restaurant at Delano Dubai. Dine on a curated Italian feast, sip premium bubbles, and dance to the sounds of a live band and DJ soundtracking the night. As the clock strikes twelve, guests can enjoy a dazzling fireworks show.
A chic alfresco soiree by the lagoon takes place at Twiggy on New Year’s Eve, where fireworks light up the night sky above the creek. Guests can enjoy a glamorous evening accompanied by the beats of a house DJ, a captivating live vocal performance, and a special New Year’s Eve menu, with a minimum spend of Dhs1,500 per person.
Park Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Creek, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs1,500 min spend. Tel: (0)4 602 1814. @twiggydubai
VANITAS
Celebrate the new year with a sophisticated Italian soirée at Vanitas. The evening begins with an elegant cocktail reception at Mosaico, followed by a decadent five-course set menu featuring authentic Italian favourites, before transitioning to the poolside afterparty.
Palazzo Versace Dubai, Al Jaddaf, 7pm to 11pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,999 food only, Dhs2,199 soft, Dhs2,399 house, Dhs2599 premium. Tel: (0)4 556 8805. @palazzoversacedubai
Tutto Passa
TOTÓ
VERA VERSILLA
Welcome 2026 at Vera Versilia’s exclusive New Year’s Eve gala, where vibrant décor, a live band and resident DJ set the tone for a glamorous celebration.
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, 8pm to 10pm, Dec 31, Dhs900 soft, Dhs1,250 house, Dhs1,500 premium, Dhs450 children six to 12. Tel: (0)4 409 5111. @veraversilia
VIDA DUBAI MALL
The newest addition to Vida Hotels’ Dubai portfolio promises prime Burj Khalifa views this New Year’s Eve. Celebrate in style with a lavish international buffet, free-flowing beverages, and live entertainment that sets the perfect tone for an evening of joy and celebration.
Vida Dubai Mall, 7pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs2,999 soft, Dhs3,999 house, Dhs4,499 premium. Tel: (0)4 549 8888. @vidahotels
VIDA DUBAI MARINA & YACHT CLUB
A glittering New Year’s Eve soirée takes over the terrace at Level 6. Dressed in elegant black and gold, expect international cuisines, flowing drinks and panoramic marina views.
Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, 9pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs799 soft, Dhs1,199 house, Dhs1,299 sparkling, Dhs2,099 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 550 8888. @vidahotels
VIDA EMIRATES HILLS
With views overlooking the golf course, Vida Emirates Hills is a serene setting for New Year’s Eve, with festive lights, live music and unlimited sips all part of the package.
Vida Emirates Hills, 9pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs699 soft, Dhs949 house, Dhs1,199 sparkling, Dhs1,999 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 872 8888. @vidahotels
VIETNAMESE FOODIES
From its enviable position on the Downtown Boulevard, Vietnamese Foodies promises prime Burj Khalifa firework views. Coupled with an all-you-can-eat buffet of signature dishes, it’s a wholesome and hearty way to welcome 2026.
Burj Vista, Downtown Dubai, 8.30pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs1,000 indoor, Dhs1,500 outdoor, half price for children under 12. Tel: (0)50 958 0014. @vietnamesefoodies
VIEW 180
With panoramic firework views, take your celebrations to the rooftop of NH Collection
The Palm this New Year’s Eve. There’s an international buffet, a glam dress code, and children over 12 are welcome.
NH Collection The Palm, 8pm to 12.30am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,800. Tel: (0)56 687 6319. @view180dubai
Vietnamese Foodies
Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club
NEW YEAR’S EVE DUBAI
WALDORF ASTORIA PALM JUMEIRAH
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a curated Southeast Asian dinner at LAO, featuring signature sharing dishes, refined flavours and delicate desserts, paired with speciality teas or wines.
Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, 6.30pm to 11pm, Dec 31, Dhs688 food only, Dhs888 wine pairing. Tel: (0)4 818 2222. @waldorfdubai
WESTIN DUBAI MINA SEYAHI
BEACH RESORT & WATERPARK
Disco fever is the theme of this year’s gala dinner in the ballroom at The Westin. Expect a night of glitz, glamour and gourmet dining designed to transport you to the golden era of music, with soul and funk beats. Dine on an indulgent buffet, sip premium drinks, and dance the night away.
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, from Dhs1,950. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @westindubai
WET DECK
Raise your glass by the beach and watch the sky burst into a dazzling fireworks spectacle to welcome the New Year. A vibrant feast and flowing bubbles frame the night, while captivating entertainment unfolds, including a saxophone and live band.
W Dubai – The Palm, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs750, Dhs1,500 premium. Tel: (0) 04 245 5800. @wetdeckdubai
XU
Immerse yourself in a cinematic experience with a New Year’s Eve edition of Brunchflix at XU. Think live entertainment, interactive karaoke and live stations serving up all the festive flavours – a blockbuster way to say goodbye to 2025.
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, 8pm to 11pm, Dec 31, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs490 prosecco, Dhs625 premium. Tel: (0)4 394 6252. @xurestaurantdubai
LAO
XU
A LATIN NYE LIKE NO OTHER
MIAMI VICE - NEW YEAR’S EVE
FROM 9:00 PM till late
Ring in 2026 with Miami glam, and open-air energy at Coco Lounge
Includes house drinks until 11:45pm, then a cash bar
Coco Lounge par tners with GRANCARIBE to bring world-class Latin enter tainment, fire shows, capoeira, and high-energy performances that keep the dance floor alive all night DJ POLIN AND THE LATIN GRAMMY-NOMINATED A
PALM FIREWORKS VIEW
NIGHT OF BOLD STYLE & FIRE
Unlimited bites & drinks with premium canapés and curated beverages keep the par t y flowing, taste, toast, repeat!
NEW YEAR’S DAY DUBAI
NEW YEAR’S DAY
ANDALIMAN
A Balinese-inspired brunch invites guests to refresh and unwind in the verdant, sunsoaked poolside setting of Andaliman. Savour fragrant seasonal dishes designed to be shared with friends and family, and toast to the start of 2026.
One Za’abeel, 1pm to 4pm, Jan 1, Dhs350 soft, Dhs449 house, Dhs120 children four to 12. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @andalimandubai
ARMANI/DELI
Continue the festivities on January 1 with an elegant New Year’s Brunch at the Burj Khalifa featuring Italian classics and skyline views. Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, 1pm to 6pm, Jan 1, Dhs395 soft. Tel: (0)4 888 3010. @armanihoteldxb
BLUE DOOR
The Turkish Garden Brunch at Delano Dubai is a celebration rooted in renewal and tradition. Guests are invited to linger over vibrant Anatolian dishes served across live stations in the garden’s whimsical setting, with swaying trees and ambient music creating a peaceful setting for the first brunch of the year. Delano Dubai, Bluewaters, 1pm to 4pm,
Welcome 2026 in Parisian style with a New Year’s Day Brunch at BrasserieLutetia. The afternoon unfolds in a celebration of renewal and indulgence, complete with live entertainment, festive classics, and elegant French classics, from golden croissants to seafood platters and sweet desserts. Sofitel Dubai Downtown, 1pm to 5pm, Jan 1, Dhs349 soft, Dhs499 house, Dhs75 children. Tel: (0)4 503 6666. @sofiteldubaidowntown
Casa Amor
Armani/Deli
CASA AMOR
Ease into 2026 with soulful rhythms and vibrant flavours at Casa Amor. Enjoy a New Year’s Day edition of their signature Bohemian Brunch, complete with sharingstyle dishes, free-flowing drinks and a social gathering by the sea.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm, Jan 1, Dhs495 soft, Dhs695 house, Dhs895 Champagne, Dhs250 children four to 11. Tel: (0)4 777 2233. @casaamordubai
GIARDINO
Ease into the New Year in the grandiose surroundings of Giardino. Designed with families in mind, there’s an international buffet, free-flowing drinks and live entertainment for the little ones.
Palazzo Versace Dubai, 1pm to 5pm, Jan 1, Dhs400 food only, Dhs500 soft, Dhs620 house, Dhs860 premium. Tel: (0)4 556 8805. @palazzoversacedubai
GIRL & THE GOOSE
Start the new year at Girl & the Goose, with ¡A La Mesa! The Weekend Table extending from January 1 to 4. Enjoy a set menu of signature dishes for Dhs249 with sharing starters, hearty mains and a sweet treat to conclude.
Begin 2026 on a refreshing note with La Cantine Beach’s recovery morning, complete with ice baths, IV drips, and wellness shots. Follow it with a vibrant New Year’s Day brunch of sophisticated French flavours and free-flowing drinks.
Bluewaters, 1pm to 5pm, Jan 1, Dhs485 soft, Dhs585 house, Dhs695 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 556 6622. @lacantinebeachdubai
MINA’S KITCHEN
Start 2026 the Bubbalicious way with a special edition New Year’s Day brunch. A lavish afternoon of gourmet live stations, towers of fresh seafood and decadent desserts can all be paired with free-flowing soft or alcoholic drinks. Live entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere make for a fun-filled New Year’s Day soiree.
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Al Sufouh, 1pm to 4pm, Dec 31, from Dhs485. Tel: (0)4 511 7373. @minaskitchen_dxb
PRIME68
Begin 2026 with refined dining, exceptional service and spectacular skyline views with an elegant three-course brunch at Prime68.
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, 1pm to 4pm, Jan 1, Dhs350 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs595 Champagne, Dhs175 children 8 to 12. Tel: (0)4 414 0000. @prime68dxb
Girl & the Goose
NEW YEAR’S DAY DUBAI
SAL
Enjoy a breezy day by the shimmering Arabian Gulf and welcome 2026 with a luxurious seaside dining experience at SAL. Snag a table in the restaurant and dine on Mediterranean-inspired flavours and premium beverages.
Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, 12pm to 5.15pm, Dhs790 soft, Dhs1,090 premium, Dhs1,590 Champagne. Tel: (800) 323232. @jumeirahburjalarab
TASCA
Ring in the New Year in true Tasca style, surrounded by sunshine, sea views and the soulful sounds of a live band. Enjoy a relaxed Portuguese sharing menu crafted for the occasion, complemented by signature drinks and stretching views.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm, Jan 1, Dhs495 soft, Dhs695 house, Dhs895 Champagne, Dhs250 children aged four to 11. Tel: (0)4 777 2231. @tascadubai
VERA VERSILIA
Begin 2026 in true Italian style with an exquisite array of culinary delights and signature creations by Chef Marco. Celebrate the first day of the year with vibrant live entertainment, perfectly paired with signature drinks.
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, 1pm to 5pm, Jan 1, Dhs395 soft, Dhs495 house, Dhs695 sparkling, Dhs795 Champagne. Tel: (0)4 409 5111. @veraversilia
WALDORF ASTORIA PALM JUMEIRAH
Ease into the new year with a relaxed brunch at Mezzerie, featuring an abundant buffet of wholesome dishes, Waldorf signatures and a healthy corner with detox sips. Expect vibrant salads, live cooking stations, and comforting classics alongside sweet desserts. A feel-good start to 2026 for families and friends.
Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, 1pm to 4pm, Jan 1, Dhs350 soft, Dhs550 house, Dhs175 children six to 11. Tel: (0)4 818 2222.
@waldorfdubai
ZUMA DUBAI
For those looking to continue the celebrations on January 1, Zuma invites guests to enjoy an extensive selection of dishes from its world-class tasting menu at the New Year’s Day Brunch in the restaurant. Bringing a sophisticated twist on the classic izakaya style of informal eating, Zuma’s award-winning brunch incorporates all the best they have to offer. A la carte dining options are also available in the lounge.
Gate Village, DIFC, 12.30pm, Jan 1, from Dhs545. Tel: (0)4 425 5660. @zumadubai
Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah
ABU DHABI
DHABI
99 SUSHI BAR
Savour a lavish Japanese multi-course Michelin-starred menu featuring Kobe beef, caviar, oysters, truffle, toro, and uni, complemented by free-flow premium drinks from 8pm to midnight. The evening promises an elegant atmosphere, complete with a live DJ and captivating dance performances by the serene waterfront to keep the celebration alive late into the night.
The Galleria, Al Maryah, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,399 sofa seating, Dhs1,799 window seating, Dhs2,100 semi-open terrace.
Tel: (0)2 672 3333. @99sushibaruae
AL WATHBA DESERT RESORT & SPA
As the year draws to a close, Al Mabeet Desert Camp transforms into a breathtaking stage for celebration. Guests can savour a lavish gala dinner beneath the open sky, accompanied by live entertainment and a DJ, all set against the glow of lanterns and the timeless magic of the Arabian sands.
Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa Abu Dhabi, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs750 soft, Dhs1,000 house, Dhs375 children six to 12.
Tel: (0)2 204 4444. @alwathbahotel
ANANTARA SIR BANI YAS
Guests are invited to a night beneath the stars at Amwaj Beach at Anantara Sir Bani Yas. Live cooking stations of global flavours are served in a serene, open-air setting beside the water. After dinner, guests can carry on the party with music, fireworks and drinks chargeable based on consumption.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas, 8pm to 11pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,299 soft, Dhs649 children six to 11, Dhs349 for two hours of house drinks.
Tel: (0)2 895 8700. @anantarasirbaniyas
99 Sushi Bar
Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa
BUDDHA-BAR BEACH ABU DHABI
Count down to 2026 by the beach with a gourmet buffet of live stations paired with premium tipples as you listen to Lexter and the band and a resident DJ providing high-energy entertainment. Guests can choose from the beachfront terrace with unparalleled views of the fireworks or the chic ambiance of the indoor dining room.
St Regis Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs950 indoor, Dhs1,250 outdoor, Dhs1,500 lower deck, Dhs500 children indoor, Dhs950 children outdoor. Tel: (0)2 498 8888. @buddhabarbeachabudhabi
CYAN BRASSERIE
Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi is throwing a glamourous gala dinner with haute cuisine, live entertainment and a sparkling midnight toast under the stars from the 18th floor terrace. Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, 8.30pm, Dec 31, Dhs475 soft, Dhs595 house, Dhs755 bubbly. Tel: (0)50 765 6435. @andazabudhabi
EMIRATES PALACE MANDARIN ORIENTAL
Grammy Award-winning musician John Legend headlines Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental’s dazzling New Year’s Eve celebration, inviting guests to sing along in the lead-up to midnight with hits including All of Me, Ordinary People and Glory. The glamourous gala dinner will offer gourmet live stations, premium beverages and dazzling fireworks. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, 8pm, Dec 31, from Dhs3,500. Tel: (0)2 690 8888. @mo_emiratespalace
Cyan Brasserie
Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi
John Legend
GRAND HYATT ABU DHABI HOTEL & RESIDENCES EMIRATES PEARL
Bid farewell to 2025 with a dazzling gala dinner. An opulent setting of gold and pearl sets the tone for a sophisticated soiree of gourmet dishes, free-flowing drinks and entertainment from a live band and DJ.
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences
Emirates Pearl, 8pm to 2am, Dec 31, from Dhs899 soft, from Dhs1,199 house, from Dhs1,499 premium, from Dhs450 children six to 11. Tel: (0)2 510 1234. @grandhyattabudhabi
JUMEIRAH SAADIAYT ISLAND
White, Mare Mare, and Tean are all inviting guests to enjoy a remarkable gala-style dinner to say goodbye to 2025 in style. Guests can indulge in exquisite gourmet dishes, enjoy a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere, and toast to new beginnings surrounded by elegance and festive cheer.
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs1,550 soft, Dhs1,600 house, Dhs1,800 premium, Dhs675 children six to 11.
Tel: (0)2 811 4342. @jumeirahsaadiyatisland
MATÉ ABU DHABI
Celebrate Christmas Day at Maté Abu Dhabi with an authentic Argentinian asado, masterfully crafted by Chef de Cuisine, Belén Pracilio. Savour premium cuts, ocean-fresh seafood, and seasonal specialities with live entertainment and beats from a DJ.
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, 1pm to 4pm, Dec 31, Dhs525 soft, Dhs640 house, Dhs825 premium. Tel: (0)54 309 6027.
@parkhyattad
Oak Room
Maté Abu Dhabi
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pear
OAK ROOM
The Abu Dhabi EDITION’s signature steakhouse is a stylish spot for gourmet fine dining on New Year’s Eve. The menu begins with starters of foie gras mousse and lobster carpaccio, followed by a choice of main –the surf & turf would be our choice – and a decadent black forest baked Alaska for dessert. The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina, 7pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs695 soft, Dhs795 house, Dhs895 bubbly. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @abudhabiedition
QASR AL SARAB BY ANANTARA
Ring in 2026 in the open-air majlis of Al Falaj, where the last night of the year is marked with a curated dining experience featuring live cooking stations, global flavours, and signature dishes. Surrounded by the rolling desert and twinkling stars, it’s a memorable setting for a special evening. Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to 11.30pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,650 soft, Dhs1,850 house, Dhs2,026 Champagne, Dhs825 children four to 12. Tel: (0)2 895 8700. @anantaraqasralsarab
RIXOS MARINA ABU DHABI
Le Cabaret Rouge is the theme of the New Year’s Eve gala dinner at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi’s Imperial Ballroom. Delight in a four-course dinner, sip on free-flowing drinks and be entertained by an array of themed live performances. Once the gala concludes, the afterparty keeps the energy high at Ant:Dote bar.
Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, 6.30pm to 4am, Dec 31, Dhs2,500. Tel: (0)2 498 0000.
@rixosmarinaabudhabi
RIXOS PREMIUM SAADIYAT ISLAND
This red and silver-themed gala dinner at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island on December 31 begins with a lively cocktail reception and entertainment, followed by a decadent feast of international flavours with more live entertainment. As the countdown sparkles into midnight, celebrations continue under the stars with DJs, dancing, and a magical kids’ party at Rixy Kids Club, ensuring a night to remember for all.
Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 6.30pm to 3am, Dec 31, Dhs2,950.
Tel: (0)2 492 2222. @rixospremiumsaadiyat
Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi
NEW YEAR’S EVE ABU DHABI
SAADIYAT BEACH CLUB
A glam and gold New Year’s Eve party by the beach is what you can expect on the final night of the year at Saadiyat Beach Club. Be entertained by a three-piece live band, groove to live DJ tunes, and indulge in a gourmet buffet that features a caviar bar, seafood stations and a selection of live grills. Saadiyat Island, 8.30pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs849 soft, Dhs999 house, Dhs1,299 premium, Dhs299 children six to 12. Tel: (0)2 656 3500. @saadiyatbeachclub
SAL
Dine by the beach on December 31 and indulge in an exquisite five-course Mediterranean set menu. Guests can enjoy the evening’s culinary journey accompanied by live music by the pool, creating a relaxed yet festive ambiance under the stars.
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs1,450 soft, Dhs1,950 bubbly, Dhs725 children 7 and above. Tel: (0)2 811 4342. @sal_saadiyaisland
SONTAYA ABU DHABI
Ring in the New Year with a sumptuous Southeast Asian–inspired buffet set against the stunning Saadiyat shoreline. Guests can savour the vibrant flavours of the region and enjoy joyful moments with loved ones before celebrating midnight beneath a sky illuminated by fireworks. The experience includes a sharing-
style set menu and live stations. St Regis Saadiyat Island, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs750 indoor, Dhs850 outdoor, Dhs250 children.
Tel: (0)2 498 8088. @sontaya_stregis
SUSHISAMBA ABU DHABI
Ring in the New Year at Sushisamba Abu Dhabi and experience an unforgettable celebration. Immerse yourself in high-energy samba dancers, electric DJ sets, and the sounds of a live saxophonist as the countdown to midnight begins. There’s no minimum spend for the first eating from 6pm to 8.30pm, while minimum spends start from Dhs1,000 for the 9pm seating.
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, 6pm to 8pm first seating, 9pm onwards second seating, Dec 31, Dhs1,000 min spend ground floor indoor, Dhs1,300 min spend ground floor outdoor.
Tel: (0)2 811 5882. @sushisambaabudhabi
ZUMA
Bid farewell to 2025 and ring in the New Year with style and flavour at Zuma Abu Dhabi on December 31. Guests can enjoy an award-winning à la carte dining experience showcasing Zuma’s iconic favourites, with a Dhs1,000 minimum spend applying to both restaurant and lounge dining.
Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, 8pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,000 minimum spend. Tel: (0)2 401 5900. @zumaabudhabi
Saadiyat Beach Club
Zuma
Samba Soirée New Year 2026
Celebrate under the stars with vibrant beats, dazzling performances, and front-row views of a spectacular fireworks show.
AED 1,650 per person
7:30 pm - 1 am | 31 December 2025
|
NORTHERN EMIRATES
NEW YEAR’S EVE NORTHERN EMIRATES
ANANTARA MINA RAS AL KHAIMAH
New Year’s Eve is celebrated in true Anantara style with The Final Toast, a beachfront gala dinner featuring Champagne, live music by Brent Harris and Thee Jam Band, fire performances, and a dazzling countdown under the stars.
Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah, 7pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs3,000 premium, Dhs1,500 children five to 11. Tel: (0)7 204 2222. @anantararasalkhaimah
BOONS, MOVENPICK AL MARJAN
Enjoy a sparkling shorefront celebration at Boons Brasserie. The five-course menu promises gourmet delights like lobster ravioli, beef medallion and foie gras and sweet desserts, all paired with free-flowing drinks. Keep the party going with access to Neo Sky Bar afterwards for prime views of Ras Al Khaimah’s record-breaking fireworks. Movenpick Al Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah, 7pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs499 soft, Dhs599 house, Dhs849 including Neo Sky Bar package. Tel: (0)7 246 0000. @movenpickalmarjan
THE COVE ROTANA RESORT
Step into an unforgettable night of glamour, fine dining, and celebration. Savour a lavish festive menu, live entertainment, and the countdown to 2026 by the water.
The Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs699 soft, Dhs899 house. Tel: (0)50 463 7216. @thecoverotana
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON MARJAN ISLAND
Step into 2026 with a glittering gala by the poolside. Begin with a glass of sparkling to toast to the final night of the year, dine on a lavish buffet, and enjoy cooked-to-order dishes from live stations. A live band sets the tone for a glamourous evening, with fire shows and performances turning up the heat.
DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs1,099. Tel: (0)7 203 0104. @doubletreemarjanisland
FARMHOUSE BY SYRCO
Step into an evening where mindful dining meets New Year’s Eve glamour at Farmhouse by Syrco. Each festive dish is prepared from the season’s finest ingredients, complemented by exceptional wines and live music. Set against a backdrop of rustic charm and refined elegance, welcome the new year with flavour, warmth, and memorable moments.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs1,200 soft, Dhs1,950 Champagne, Dhs600 children six to 12. Tel: (0)7 206 7777.
@ritzcarltonalwadidesert
KAN ZAMAN
Welcome the new year under the enchanting desert sky with a lavish international buffet with Levantine flair, flowing champagne, and enigmatic live entertainment.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, 8pm to 12am, Dec 31, Dhs1,200 soft, Dhs1,950 Champagne, Dhs600 children six to 12. Tel: (0) 206 7777.
@ritzcarltonalwadidesert
KARMA KAFE BY BUDDHA-BAR
At Karma Kafé by Buddha-Bar, guests can enjoy a five-course dinner with free-flowing beverages, entertainment, and prime firework views as they toast to the New Year
Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, 7pm, Dec 31, from Dhs500. Tel: (0)7 209 0090.
@karmarak_bybuddhabar
LAVA BEACH CLUB
A dazzling beachfront celebration turns Lava Beach Club into one of Fujairah’s most sensational New Year’s Eve celebrations. Indulge in a gourmet international buffet, sip premium beverages, and enjoy live performers.
Fairmont Fujairah, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs599 soft, Dhs799 house, Dhs899 sparkling, 50% off children six to 12.
Tel: (0)9 204 1111. @fairmontfujairah
DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr invites you to welcome 2026 with vibrant fireworks by the sea, exquisite dining, and an evening of refined elegance. For reservations, call +971 2 654 3333 or email dining.bab@fairmont.com
NEW YEAR’S EVE NORTHERN EMIRATES
LONGBEACH CAMPGROUND
Glamp your way into 2026 at Longbeach Campground with a beachside celebration filled with music, flavour, and festive cheer. Enjoy a BBQ by the beach with live entertainment, including a DJ, dance show, live singers, and a grand countdown at the Floating Theatre. Longbeach Campground, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs399 adults, Dhs199 children six to 11. Tel: (600) 566 600. @longbeachcampground
NEO SKY BAR
Enjoy front-row views of the New Year’s Eve fireworks from this rooftop hotspot on Marjan Island. Graze on sharing platters and freeflowing drinks as you toast to 2026. Movenpick Al Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs550 house, Dhs700 premium. Tel: (0)7 246 0000. @movenpickalmarjan
RADISSON RESORT RAS AL KHAIMAH
Welcome 2026 under the stars with a beach gala dinner, with live barbecue stations, fresh seafood, and a lavish dessert spread, all paired with five hours of unlimited beverages. Entertainment includes a belly dancer, tanoura performance, party dancers and a live DJ, leading up to the countdown to the fireworks. Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah, 7pm to 2am, Dec 31, Dhs750 soft, Dhs999 house, Dhs425 children six to 12. Tel: (0)50 419 4908. @radissonresortrasalkhaimah
THE RITZ-CARLTON RAS AL KHAIMAH, AL HAMRA BEACH
A gala dinner awaits at Shore House with lobster thermidor, caviar, oysters, and prime steaks. A live DJ will take you into 2026. The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach, Ras Al Khaimah, 8.30pm to 11.50pm, Dec 31, Dhs1,100soft, Dhs2,200 house, Dhs990 drinks only, Dhs550 children six to 12. Tel: (0)7 204 8888. @ritzcarltonalhamrabeach
RIXOS AL MAIRID RAS AL KHAIMAH
Check-in to Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah over NYE and enjoy access to their grand beachfront gala dinner. Expect elegant dining, entertainment and a fireworks display. Little ones can enjoy the Rixy Kids Club Party with games, shows, and a special kids’ countdown. The night is exclusive to in-house guests.
Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah, 7pm, Dec 31, exclusive to in-house guests with a minimum two-night stay. Tel: (0)7 228 8844.
@rixosalmairid
RIXOS BAB AL BAHAR
At Rixos Bab Al Bahr’s Masquerade Gala Dinner, savour an elegant buffet paired with a live band, musicians, captivating dance shows, and roaming artists. The countdown crescendos into a fireworks display at midnight, followed by an after-party that carries on the celebrations. Young guests enjoy their own Snowflake Masquerade at Rixy Kids Club.
Rixos Bab Al Bahr, Ras Al Khaimah, 7pm, Dec 31, exclusive to in-house guests with a minimum two-night stay. Tel: (0)7 244 4400.
@rixosbabalbahr
SOFITEL AL HAMRA
Ring in the New Year with loved ones at Réunion, where French flair meets island elegance. Your gala dinner is paired with live entertainment and festive performances
Sofitel Al Hamra Ras Al Khaimah, 8pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs1,600 adults, Dhs800 children six to 11. Tel: (0)7 209 6000.
@sofitelalhamra
ULA, MOVENPICK AL MARJAN
Dance into 2026 on the sand at boho chic beach club, ULA. The adults-only seaside soiree promises a three-course menu, beats from a live DJ, free-flowing drinks and firework views.
Movenpick Al Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah, 7pm to 1am, Dec 31, Dhs750 house, Dhs950 premium. Tel: (0)7 246 0000.
@movenpickalmarjan
BRAZILIAN NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER, FREVO
Ring in the new year the Brazilian way at Frevo — bold flavors and live Latin entertainment by Giselle & Diego. Enjoy vibrant tunes, exceptional cuisine and a beautifully elevated atmosphere.
31 December | 7:00 pm - 1:00 am
NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER, FLOW KITCHEN
Ring in the New Year with a lavish buffet, featuring international favourites, festive delicacies and a vibrant celebratory atmosphere with live entertainment by renowned Brazilian singer Winck.
31 December | 7:00 pm - 1:00 am
NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER, LITTLE MISS INDIA
Ring in the New Year with a vibrant sharing-style Indian menu, crafted house beverages and endless celebrations at Little Miss India.
