Will it be lunch, brunch or afternoon tea this weekend?
The third weekend in May is upon us and these are our picks of the nine best things to do in Abu Dhabi and Dubai this weekend.
Friday 17 May
Sample a saffron-infused afternoon tea
Discover the unique Saffron Afternoon Tea at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island‘s Osmo Lounge & Bar. This experience involves saffron-infused delights, ranging from savoury options like a smoked chicken with saffron aioli to sweet indulgences like saffron milk cake. The experience includes a seasonal welcome drink and unlimited saffron-infused coffee or tea. Plus, two glasses of sparkling grape or mocktails served in a picturesque setting perfect for your Instagram feed. Available daily from 1pm to 6pm. AED 250.
GO: Visit https://sevn.ly/xOgx9PcN for reservations and more information.
Feast on Thai delights at The Link
The newly-opened DuangDy at The Link will host Dylan Jones and Bo Songvisava for a series of interactive events celebrating Thailand’s culinary heritage with a sustainable twist. The husband-and-wife chef duo, renowned for their leadership at acclaimed Thai establishments Bo.Lan and Err in Bangkok will showcase their finest creations with a sustainable twist. Diners can expect a menu of salads, curries, stir-fry dishes and soup before finishing the evening with Kanom (dessert) and DuangDy tea. Available from 16 to 18 May, from 6pm to midnight. AED 495 (food only).
GO: Visit www.thelinkdubai.com for reservations and more information.
See legendary rock band Scorpions live in the capital
Iconic rock bands have come and gone, but a whopping 58 years since its inception, Scorpions is still going strong. In fact, the legendary band is going on its Love at First Sting world tour in 2024, and a pit stop in Abu Dhabi is on the roster — the concert is confirmed for 17 May at Etihad Arena. Their success has been marked by several chart-topping hits, achieving over 120 million records sold and surpassing one billion views on YouTube for the single Wind of Change. To celebrate this iconic album, Scorpions will set the stage ablaze with a whole host of smash hits including Big City Nights, Still Loving You, and more.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for tickets and more information.
Saturday 18 May
Visit the Fiesta Los Amigos pop-up
Don Bueno and Tacos Los Hermanos have partnered with Ramy Automotive in Al Quoz for a turbo-charged cookout experience this weekend. The limited-time pop-up will offer Baja Fish Tacos, Birria Tacos, Chicken Pastor Tacos, Flan, Rice Pudding, and Tres Leches, which offer flavours to fuel your night. Available on Saturday 18 May from 6pm to midnight.
GO: Follow @tacosloshermanos.dxb on Instagram for more information.
Head to Saadiyat Island’s Zen Oasis
Embark on an electrifying journey every Saturday at Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi this month. The weekly “Zen Oasis” event showcases renowned international DJs spinning sensational sets from around the globe. On 18 May, groove to the Afro Electronic mixes of DJ Mamoro, followed by Kawtar Sadik on 25 May. While you party, delight in Pacific Rim cuisine and expertly crafted beverages set against the breathtaking backdrop of Saadiyat beach. Available on Saturdays from 8pm.
GO: Visit www.buddhabarbeachabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Laugh out loud with Aziz Ansari
American comedian Aziz Ansari will perform for the first time in the capital as part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. The acclaimed actor, director, writer, and comedian, best known for portraying Tom Haverford on the television show “Parks and Recreation,” is set to showcase his comedy skills at Etihad Arena. He has appeared in several films such as “Get Him to the Greek,” “I Love You, Man,” and “30 Minutes or Less.” When he faced allegations of misconduct during the #MeToo movement, he used them as inspiration for this show, Aziz Ansari: Right Now.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for reservations and more information.
Sunday 19 May
Enjoy afternoon tea at The Lana
If you’re on the lookout for a taste of luxury and a dash of delight, a new afternoon tea has launched at The Lana, Dorchester Collection. Crafted by world-renowned pastry chef Angelo Musa, the offering includes an extensive selection of teas and an array of traditional finger sandwiches, from Smoked Scottish Salmon to Slow-Roasted Wagyu Beef. For a sweet treat, indulge in freshly baked scones with clotted cream and a tempting assortment of pastries while listening to the tunes of the house pianist. Available daily from 1pm to 6pm. AED 600 (traditional afternoon tea) or AED700 (traditional afternoon tea with a glass of NV Pol Roger Brut Réserve).
GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for reservations and more information.
Dine on a helipad
The ‘Skyline Supper by Catch at St. Regis’ offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience on the helipad at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. This spectacular event provides an exclusive opportunity for 20 guests to enjoy delightful dishes 255 meters above the ground. The menu includes crab croquettes with tobanjan aioli, 48-hour marinated miso cod, braised short ribs, pan-seared scallops, and a sushi selection before finishing with the celebrated ‘Catchamisu’ dessert. Availble on 18 and 19 May, from 6pm to 7:30pm. AED 750 per person.
GO: Visit www.catchatthestregis.com for reservations and more information.
Experience Dubai’s newest dinner show
Soul and funk aficionados will find their haven at Aretha, nestled on the rooftop of The St. Regis Gardens. With its retro-chic decor, rose gold bar and central stage, this new live music venue celebrates the swinging sixties and soulful seventies. Aretha’s offerings extend beyond the delightful dinner show, offering innovative cocktails and a menu of Dover Sole Meuniere, Grilled Rock Lobster and Wagyu Beef Rossini. Aretha is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 7pm to 3am.
GO: Call 04 880 5242 for reservations and more information.
