lifestyle and culture

If you’re stuck on what to do this weekend, here’s five amazing ideas for you to do around Dubai.
Try out a new restaurant
Escape to Aladdin’s Cave of sumptuous fabrics and chandeliers, at new restaurant Asil in the Rixos Premium Dubai. Fusing the cuisines of Turkey, Morocco and Lebanon, this new eatery serves authentic Arab dishes with a creative flair. In traditional Arabic fashion, dishes are served sharing style to the table, allowing diners to sample a wide selection from the menu that ranges from a hot and cold mezze section including the standout Köpoğlu – a dish made with fried cubes of aubergine in a buffalo yoghurt dip with a candied tomato jam. Main courses include an Ottoman Lamb Shank and the Asil Kebab with a classic Turkish Kunefe served with pistachio ice cream for dessert
Enjoy a pool day out

Soak up the sun in style by the pool at DRIFT Beach Club, which is part of the One&Only Royal Mirage resort. With views of Palm Island Bay and Dubai’s skyline, it’s the perfect setting for a chill day out with friends. Pool passes are on offer at DRIFT for Dhs150 per person during the week, and Dhs200 on the weekends.
If you’re looking for the ultimate relaxation time, opt for the daycation deal One&Only is running from 11am to 8pm for Dhs850, which covers two adults. Dhs400 of the amount is redeemable on food and beverages.
Go for gold

Why not take the time to go through your old jewellery this weekend and see if there’s any possibility to make room for some more by selling some of your gold on. Recently launched by one of the most well-known jewellery chains across the UAE, Atasay, this new e-commerce initiative sellanygold.com gives customers the opportunity to sell their gold from the comfort of their own homes. The company’s team of experts have curated an at-home kit for safe and secure gold inspections. Atasay is also now allowing customers to exchange their gold directly for new collections available. So, if you’re staying home this weekend you could make some money from the comfort of your own couch.
Try a flower-arranging workshop

Fancy learning a new skill with some friends? Well, Plaisir Cadeaux et Fleurs has launched its summer flower workshops where you can learn the best tips and tricks on how to create the perfect flower arrangement. Workshops are done by appointment only, with classes available every day except Fridays. There’s only five people allowed per session due to COVID-19, of which there are three per day at the timings of 11.00am, 3.00pm and 6.30pm. The whole session costs Dhs550 where you’ll get a mixture of fresh seasonal flowers and all the tools required to create your arrangement; a lesson on the art of flower arranging; light refreshments and a Plaisir Cadeaux et Fleurs branded square box in velvet to house the flower arrangement to take home with you.
Tuck into a good roast

While we are in the middle of summer, you can never say no to a good roast dinner. Available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Barrel 12 on The Palm Jumeirah currently has an amazing deal will all the roast dinner trimmings including a complimentary drink for Dhs159.
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While big travel plans for most are put on hold, a staycation in the UAE is the next best thing.
Given we’ve got a brief holiday coming up for Eid Al Adha, EW has rounded up some of the best staycation deals across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah.
Dubai
Caesars Bluewaters Dubai

For a truly luxury staycation, look no further than Caesars Bluewaters Dubai. Even better the resort currently has its #LikeACaesar deal with packages starting from Dhs1,036 per night which includes breakfast and also a 20 per cent discount across restaurants at the hotel, as well as the Qua Spa. The offer is valid until September 30.
Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, Bluewaters, Dubai. (04) 556 6666. caesarsdubai.ae
La Ville Hotel & Suites

For an inner-city getaway, City Walk Dubai hotel La Ville has an amazing offer on for UAE nationals and residents. With prices starting from Dhs550 for single occupancy and Dhs600 for double occupancy, this includes breakfast and dinner at Chival. Guests can relax and take a dip in the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool and soak up the incredible views of the Dubai skyline or go for a shopping session in the numerous shops in City Walk.
La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk. (04) 403 3111. livelaville.com
Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Enjoy the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah’s ‘Dream Away’ staycation package for Eid Al Adha. At the moment, guests will get 20 per cent off the best available price for a room per night.
Late check-in and check-out are also included, and early departure fees have been waived and a 24-hour cancellation with no deposit required is also available. To top it all off, upgrades on rooms will be given for free, if there is availability.
Andaz Dubai The Palm

There’s 30 per cent off available for UAE citizens and residents at the Andaz Dubai The Palm for two nights. Rates start from Dhs399 per night, which is available until September 15. Dining options include in-house restaurants Hanami and The Locale serving Japanese cuisine. Whether it’s a family getaway or a romantic couples getaway, there’s both an adults-only Cabana Pool and the family-friendly infinity pool.
Andaz Dubai The Palm. (04) 581 1234. hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/dubai/andaz-dubai-the-palm/
Raffles Dubai

For a relaxing Eid Al Adha staycation with incredible views of the Dubai skyline, opt for Raffles Dubai. With prices starting from Dhs655 per night, which includes room service breakfast and Dhs200 redeemable on food and beverages throughout the stay. In even better timing, the Raffles Spa has opened its doors giving you the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.
Raffles Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Road, Dubai. (04) 324 888. raffles.com/dubai
Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa

Enjoy a luxurious staycation at the Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa for Dhs850 per night. With the offer inclusive of breakfast at the Brasserie 2.0 and dinner at the award-winning restaurants in the resort. Located right on the beach amongst 19 acres of landscaped gardens along with many different swimming pools, relax and unwind with this package this weekend.
Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marina. (04) 317 6565. leroyalmeridien-dubai.com
Abu Dhabi
The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Escape to the St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort this Eid Al Adha for two nights. With breakfast included in the rate, guests will also receive Dhs200 resort credit each day. Not only that, a complimentary hour of non-motorised watersports, some selected group fitness classes and access to the kids’ club.
The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. (02) 498 8888. www.marriott.com
Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

If you fancy a staycation in the capital, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi is a must-stay. With prices starting from Dhs945 per night, inclusive of breakfast at the Le Vendôme Brasserie. Guests will also receive 15 per cent off food at the restaurants available at the resort.
Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. (02) 690 9000. mandarinoriental.com
Ras Al Khaimah
Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa

For Dhs999 per night guests can enjoy a stay at the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa. The price includes both breakfast and dinner at Lebanese restaurant Al Maeda.
Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa. (07) 228 8844. Hilton.com
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It’s no secret brunch is a rite of passage in Dubai. However, it can be overwhelming to decide on where to go as there is so much on offer.
To help you whittle it down, EW has rounded up some of the best brunches in Dubai, which hopefully might help you find some new favourites in your mix or help you rediscover old favourites that are just only reopening.

Of course, be mindful of the precautionary COVID-19 measures in place including social distancing, limits to how many people you can have on your table and all buffets are still suspended, so it’s table service all the way.
With that, here is the ultimate guide to brunch in Dubai, with 30 choices to pick from.
Alici

With unbeatable views of Dubai, Alici’s brunch is a must-try. This must-try seafood restaurant has an array of Italian dishes on its menu (including plenty of seafood, of course) and a lengthy cocktail list inspired by the flavours of the Amalfi coast. Their brunch package is available on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm – Dhs395 for soft drinks, Dhs495 for house drinks and Dhs595 for sparkling.
Jumeirah Al Naseem

At Jumeriah Al Naseem’s three restaurants – Kayto, Summersalt and Rockfish – brunch is back on the cards. Soft drink packages are available for Dhs395 and for alcoholic beverage packages it’s Dhs495, available Fridays from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. You can be rest assured this resort is sterilising everything to the highest of standards as it just became the first hotel in the world to become officially certified for its hygiene practices.
Zuma

If you’re feeling a spot of Japanese, then the return of Zuma’s brunch is the one for you. Running every Friday and Saturday between 12pm and 4pm with packages including Dhs395 for soft drinks, Dhs495 for wine, beer and prosecco and Dhs595 with champagne.
La Cantine

Craving breakfast foods? If so, La Cantine is the brunch you should be heading to. With their menu crammed full of breakfast dishes (of course, there are other options), head to this eatery on Saturdays between 12pm and 4pm. Packages are priced at Dhs265 for soft drinks, Dhs400 with wine and beer and Dhs650 for premium.
Cafe Belge

This brunch is definitely an extravaganza, Great Gatsby style. Run by Secret Parties (who definitely know how to throw a good brunch or two…), the new ‘Secret Brunch at The Ritz’ is certainly one to put on your brunch bucket list. Located at Cafe Belge at The Ritz-Carlton in DIFC, brunchgoers will be treated to some fine French cuisine from the popular restaurant along with some tantalising cocktails.
Running every Friday from 1pm to 5pm, packages start at Dhs295 for soft drinks, Dhs395 for house drinks and Dhs495 for bubbles.
Tortuga

Looking to enjoy a true Mexican fiesta along with picturesque views? Look no further than Tortuga, where you can enjoy some irresistible cuisine along with views of the lagoon at Jumeirah Mina A’Salam. Running every Friday from 12.30 until 4pm, packages start at Dhs270 for soft drinks and Dhs370 for house drinks.
Tasca, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira

Indulge in the flavourful delights of Portugal at Dubai hotspot Tasca. With a variety of grilled meats and seafood marinated to perfection, as well as an array of desserts, surrounded by breathtaking views of Dubai and the Arabian Gulf, this is the place to be on weekends. Running every Friday from 12:30pm to 4pm, packages start from Dhs350 for soft drinks and Dhs450 for house beverages.
La Mezcaleria

Those looking for a lively brunch and a good time with friends, this Latin American pop-up in DIFC is the place for you. Enjoy sharing-style starters with your friends, followed by your own main course and then a sharing platter of desserts. Running every Friday from 1pm to 5pm packages start from Dhs190 for soft drinks, Dhs290 for grape, Dhs360 for house beverages and mixed drinks and Dhs460 for bubbly.
OPA

A Mediterranean feast awaits you at OPA every Friday, bringing Mykonos to Dubai. Let your hair down with your friends feasting on the iconic flavours of Greece, along with some plate-smashing entertainment. Running from 12pm until 4pm, packages for this four-course brunch begin at Dhs245 for soft drinks, Dhs350 for house drinks and Dhs395 for bubbles.
We Brunch, Intercontinental Dubai Marina

For those seeking an evening brunch We Brunch: After Dark is the perfect spot. Located at Accent Restaurant in the Intercontinental Dubai Marina, We Brunch has a new a la carte menu on offer which will be served right to your table.
Running every Friday from 7pm to 10pm,  packages start from Dhs299 for soft drinks and Dhs349 for house drinks.
Jazz@Pizza Express, JLT

If it’s a lively time (with social distancing in place) that you’re looking for, this is the place to go. Running every Friday from 12pm to 4pm, you get free-flowing house drinks and food for Dhs225.
Hidden Brunch, Treehouse and Tesoro

The famous Hidden Brunch which takes place across two venues at two venues, Treehouse and Tesoro located in the Taj Hotel in Business Bay, relaunched earlier this month. Running every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, packages start from Dhs325 for soft drinks and Dhs375 for sparkling.
Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters brunch is now operating from 1pm to 5pm every Friday. Enjoy music, food and drinks with packages starting at Dhs199 for soft drinks, Dhs349 for house drinks and Dhs449 for the premium package.
Distillery Dubai

If you’re keen for classic gastropub food, then The Distillery’s brunch is for you. Running every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, packages start at Djs 149 for soft drinks and Dhs279 for house beverages.
The Penthouse

If you fancy a Thursday evening get-together with your friends, this new brunch launching this week is one to check out. With a three-course Japanese set menu available, along with a selection of cocktails and amazing views, you’re bound to have a great time. Available every Thursday from 7pm to 9pm. Prices are Dhs250 for ladies and Dhs350 for gents.
Lucky Voice, Brunch In Loud
For unlimited food and beverages, hit up Lucky Voice’s Brunch In Loud. Available on Fridays from 2pm to 5pm, packages start from Dhs195 for soft drinks, Dhs250 for house drinks and Dhs350 for sparkling.
Solo Gusto Brunch, Raffles Hotel

Running every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, enjoy some flavourful delicacies at this family-friendly brunch, Solo Gusto Brunch. On the menu are sharing portions of absolutely everything from Italy’s diverse regions – antipasti, carpaccio, pasta, pizza and fritto misto to name just a few.
Packages begin from Dhs199 per person. Children between ages 12 and 15 dine at half price while kids below 12 dine free.
El Secreto, La Carnita

If you’re feeling like a Mexican feast this weekend then this brunch is for you. Available on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, packages start from Dhs275 for soft drinks, Dhs375 for house drinks, Dhs475 for sparkling and Dhs599 for champagne.
COYA

While the famous COYA buffet is not on offer due to the current restrictions, appetizers, main plates, side dishes and a dessert platter will be served directly to your table. Running every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm, prices start from Dhs390 for a standard non-alcoholic package, to Dhs490 for the house package and Dhs59o for the exclusive premium package, which now includes Perrier-Jouét Grand Brut and Pisco Sour.
CÉ LA VI

Having only just opened at the beginning of this year, then having to temporarily close due to the pandemic there’s a high chance you haven’t tried out this gem yet. Luckily, brunch has returned to CÉ LA VI filled with plenty of Asian dishes. You also can’t beat the views of the Burj Khalifa it has.
Their brunch runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm with prices starting from Dhs290 for soft drinks, Dhs490 for house beverages and Dhs690 with champagne.
ROKA

Fancy some yakitori-negima yaki, robata grilled chicken skewers with spring onion or the Kankoku fu kohitsuji, flavoursome lamb cutlets with Korean spices and sesame cucumber? If so, then this is the brunch for you. Having just launched prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, this is the perfect time to try out ROKA.
Brunch at ROKA runs every Friday and Saturday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Packages start from Dhs295 for soft beverages, Dhs395 for house beverages and Dhs495 for premium beverages.
WHITE Beach

For an all-round beach and pool (if the pool is open this weekend) experience, this brunch at WHITE Beach at Atlantis, The Palm is a must-try.
Brunch is available every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm. Packages start from Dhs249 for soft drinks, Dhs299 for house drinks for ladies and Dhs349 for house drinks for men.
Mama Zonia, Pier 7

This staple brunch location is officially back on with the Secret Parties team. With some adjustments due to current restrictions, there will still be live music, fabulous food and drinks at this Secret Jungle Party.
Available every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, brunch packages start from Dhs255 for soft drinks, Dhs355 for house beverages, Dhs455 for sparkling and Dhs599 for champagne.
Hell’s Kitchen, Caesars Palace Bluewaters
While Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen brunch is known for its huge buffet, this is currently on hold in line with government guidelines. However, an a la carte brunch menu is on offer with prices starting from Dhs295 for soft drinks, Dhs395 for house beverages and Dhs445 for sparkling. Available on Fridays from 12.30pm until 3.30pm at Caesars Palace Bluewaters.

Lah Lah, The Greens
If you fancy a pan-Asian twist on brunch then head to LAH LAH at Zabeel House by Jumeriah, The Greens. Their brunch offers are available every Friday from 2pm to 5pm and 7pm to 10pm. Prices start at Dhs295 for soft beverages, Dhs375 for house beverages and Dhs450 for sparkling.

Nobu, Atlantis The Palm
With brunch on offer every Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 3pm, how could you pass up a good Japanese feast at Nobu Dubai?
In the available offers, guests will be treated to a selection of a la carte dishes – including chicken and avocado tacos, assorted Nobu sushi and rolls and black cod yuzu miso – along with drinks which are served to guests’ tables. Prices start from Dhs345 for soft drinks and Dhs435 for house beverages.

STK, Dubai JBR
If you’re looking for a bit of an upmarket party – albeit with social distancing rules in place – then ‘Dare to Brunch’ at STK is one to visit, and it’s now back every Friday from 2pm to 5pm and 7pm to 10pm. Offers start from Dhs400 for soft beverages, Dhs600 for house beverages and Dhs650 for sparkling.

Zero Gravity
Available every Friday and Saturday from 3pm to 6pm, Zero Gravity’s ‘late-late lunch’ is great value for money.
Fancy unlimited fresh burrata and perhaps some sushi, topped off with some truffled mushroom tagliatelle and teriyaki wings? Then this is a must-visit for you. Prices start from Dhs199 for ladies and Dhs249 for gents.

French Riviera , Jumeirah Al Qasr

Jumeriah Group has just launched a brand new dining experience on the stunning oceanfront at Jumeirah Al Qasr, French Riviera – perfect timing for post-quarantine. With French-Mediterranean food on offer, this new eatery’s ‘Bleu, Blanc, Rouge’ brunch hosted every Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 3pm is a must-visit. Packages start at Dhs350 for soft drinks and Dhs450 for house drinks and cocktails.
Roberto’s

For a truly stylish brunch on Saturday, head down to the elegant Italian dining spot in DIFC – Roberto’s. Having just launched ‘The Bacchus Brunch’ – which is a nod to Bacchus the ancient Roman God of wine, the elegant setting transports you to a luxurious Roman restaurant, where you can indulge in an array of beautifully put together Italian dishes including ricotta served with sundried tomato; homemade gnocchi with pecorino and black peppercorn; and grilled seabass and stuffed artichoke and grilled ribeye with roasted cauliflower.
Running every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm, prices start at Dhs295 for soft drinks and Dhs445 for house beverages.
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