Brunches, beaches and Bastille Day await.

If you thought the UAE was quiet over the summer, think again. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are filled with exciting things to do. So, whether you’re after staycations, spas or swimming – at night time, no less – here’s what you need to know. Here are the best things to do in the UAE this weekend.

Friday 12 July 2024

Book a staycation at Mövenpick Al Marjan Island

Mövenpick Al Marjan Island is offering the summer staycation deal, SUN-KISSED Getaway. One-night starts from AED 949, and includes a Deluxe Island View room, breakfast for two at The Market, and a dinner for two at Ula Beach RAK with a set menu and two cocktails each. Two-nights starts from AED 899, and includes a Deluxe Island View room, breakfast at The Market, dinner at Ula Beach RAK with two cocktails each, and a 30-minute massage for two.

GO: Call 072 460 000 or email reservation.almarjanisland@movenpick.com for more information. 


Enjoy summer stay at Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain

Dive into a swish summer getaway at Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain. Soak up the sun on pristine beaches, and unwind in your cosy chalet with direct access to the beach. Thrillseekers can enjoy a variety of water sports, and kids have a blast at the Qix Club and splash area. Gather your family and friends for magical memories filled with sun, sand, and smiles.

GO: Call +97167065000 or email hithere.uaq@vidahotels.com for more information.


Start your weekend off in style at W Dubai – The Palm

W Dubai – The Palm is home to show-stopping restaurants and bars. The options include world-renowned restaurants, from Chef Massimo Bottura’s MICHELIN-Starred venue, Torno Subito, to Chef Akira Back’s self-titled restaurant. Plus, AWAY SPA is a serene spot and offers treatments to help you unwind.

GO: Visit https://guest.iris.net for more information.  


Saturday 13 July 2024

Dig into Hamilton’s Gastropub at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

If you’re looking for a brilliant brunch, head to Hamilton’s Gastropub’s The Butcher’s Brunch. The classic butcher shop comes alive with meat cuts, cold cuts, cheeses, wines and beers. Customise your potatoes with condiments at the baked potato station, and visit the live station for traditional American lobster and crab rolls. The brunch runs every Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. The soft package is AED 295, alcohol package is AED 395, and the kids’ package is AED 150.

GO: Call 02 697 0000 or WhatsApp +971 56 994 8890 for more information.


Dive into Kyma Beach’s Aegean Nights

Join Kyma Beach this summer at its Night Pool parties. Aegean Nights runs every Friday and Saturday from 7pm onwards. Located on Palm West Beach, guests can enjoy Mediterranean luxury in Dubai. Whether you opt for a lounge, sunbed or private gazebo, you may embrace the beauty of the starry night. Join a midnight swim, savour Greek flavours and sip on crafted cocktails. The resident DJ will spin tunes to keep the energy high all night long. The event starts from AED 200 per person, which is fully redeemable on food and beverages.

GO: Call +971 4 666 5999 or email book@kymabeach.ae for more information.


Visit TATEL Dubai’s new Entre Amigos brunch

Cristiano Ronaldo is making himself at home in the Middle East. Not only is he playing for Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr FC, but he and fellow sports stars Rafael Nadal and Pau Gasol are behind the restaurant Tatel. The concept can be found in Beverly Hills, Doha, Madrid, Riyadh and now Dubai. Located in Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection, it has launched a new Entre Amigos brunch on 13 July. Expect live entertainment from DJ Gina, percussionist Matteo and sharing-style dishes. The brunch is available from 1pm to 4pm, and starts from 375 AED per person.

GO: Visit https://tatelrestaurants.com for more information. 

TATEL Dubai new restaurants in Dubai

Sunday 14 July 2024

Celebrate Bastille Day at Bar Du Port

Add a little ooh la la to your weekend. Bar Du Port is marking Bastille Day with Brunch de Folie. Running from 2pm to 6pm, Chef Hadi Saroufim showcases French classics. Dishes include Chicken Escalope, Foie Gras Mousse and Quiche Lorraine. Plus, the resident DJ will be spinning tunes. The brunch starts from AED 270.

GO: Visit https://www.sevenrooms.com for more information.

things to do in Dubai

Dine out at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi

Visit Le Royal Méridien’s La Famiglia Brunch at Amalfi Ristorante. Drawing inspiration from Italy and its nonnas, it showcases cherished recipes. The experience is great for groups and offers sharing dishes. Plus, there is live entertainment by Ada Duque. The brunch takes place from 1pm to 4pm, and starts from AED 250.

GO: Visit https://www.eat2eat.com for more information.

Le Royal Méridien

Visit SPA InterContinental – InterContinental Dubai Festival City

If you’re in need of some me-time, visit SPA InterContinental – InterContinental Dubai Festival City. The spa offers holistic treatments, massages and facials, which will leave you destressed and rejuvenated. The treatments include the Exuviance facials, which is designed to target acne, Aging and hyperpigmentation. Glow Ritual Facial starts from AED 350 AED. Radiance Facial starts from AED 450. Age Reverse Facial starts from AED 550.

GO: Call 04 701 1257, email spa.icdfc@ihg.com or visit www.dubaifestivalcityhotels.com for more information.