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    9 fabulous things to do this weekend

    by

    Life

    August 22, 2025

    As August edges forward, the city begins to stir again. With summer escapes winding down and the rhythm of work life resuming, weekends take on a new kind of momentum.
    Whether you’re seeking a relaxing reset or a refined way to transition back into the buzz, Dubai’s scene is ready, with elevated menus, chic escapes, and curated experiences that match the mood. We have the perfect line-up in this edition of the Emirates Woman’s weekend guide for 22-24 August.
    Book a Michelin star Onam Sadhya

     For the very first time, Jamavar Dubai marks Onam with a one-of-a-kind culinary tribute, presenting Leelamma’s Onam Sadhya. This multi-course feast is a celebration of Kerala’s harvest season, inspired by the heritage of the Nair family. Reimagined through a regal banana leaf-style presentation, each dish pays homage to Kerala’s culinary identity and the legacy of their beloved matriarch, Leelamma.When & Where: From 26 August to 5 September for lunch and dinner at Jamavar, The Address Residences, Downtown Dubai. Book this weekend to secure your table.
    Experience a relaxing breath work session under the moonlight

     A brand-new, relaxing sea-floating breathwork experience is now in Dubai. The weekly event sees a group float off the coast of Palm Jumeirah under the moonlight while guided through breathwork rituals. Sessions begin with a somatic activation on the sand before you’re guided onto a velvet-topped lilo to float on the Arabian Gulf with noise-cancelling headphones.When & Where: Sunday evenings. Meet at MGallery The Retreat Palm Dubai. Participation costs Dhs350 per person.
    Visit the Acqua di Parma pop-up café

     The Italian lifestyle brand teams up with Bloomingdale’s for its very first pop-up café experience in the Middle East. Expect a vibrant space designed by Dorothee Meilichzon, a vintage gelato cart, and a menu of Italian coffee classics and mocktails like the Capri Spritz. It’s a stylish escape from the city heat.When & Where: Now open at Caffetino on the first floor of Bloomingdale’s, Dubai Mall.
    Honour Emirati Women’s Day at Guerlain Spa

    In honour of Emirati Women’s Day, Guerlain Spa at One&Only The Palm unveils the “Path to Calm”, a three-hour sanctuary. The ritual includes the Dubai Harmony Treatment with Ice Bubbles and the Aura Nobile Face Treatment, harnessing the power of the rare Gold Nobile orchid. The experience concludes with an indulgent afternoon tea at The Lounge.When & Where: Available until 30 September 2025 at Guerlain Spa, One&Only The Palm. Priced at AED 1,985 per person.
    Dubai’s coolest new restaurants worth booking this weekend

    Get a taste of Japan at Ongaku

     Tucked away within CLAP Dubai, Ongaku offers a one-of-a-kind escape inspired by the electric nightlife of Tokyo. You could visit there over the weekend to soak in the atmosphere or op for their weekly ladies’ night. The night, named Tokyo Room, recreates the mystery of Tokyo nights through Japanese-inspired decor and vibrant beats. The package includes three signature dishes and free-flowing beverages for three hours.When & Where: Every Thursday from 8pm at Ongaku, CLAP Dubai, DIFC. The ladies’ package is AED 240.
    Order in from an Emirati-owned restaurant

    Celebrate Emirati Women’s Day by supporting incredible homegrown concepts led by inspiring Emirati women. Order from iconic brands like SALT founded by Amal Al Marri and Deem Albassam, the innovative coffee of Masraana by Tasnim AlGergawi, the creative cuisine of Fifth Flavour Founded by sisters Aisha and Noor Alabbasi, or favourites like Home Bakery and Cocoville.When & Where: Order via Deliveroo any day this weekend to celebrate.
    Unwind with a rainforest & tea experience

    Banyan Tree Dubai invites guests to celebrate strength and grace with a serene experience. The offering combines the signature 60-minute Rainforest Experience at their spa with a refined Japanese-inspired Afternoon Tea at Tocha, creating an intimate setting to pause and connect.When & Where: From 23rd to 31st August at Banyan Tree Dubai. Priced at AED 450 per person for groups of up to six.
    Indulge in a Spa & Dining Escape in Ras Al Khaimah

     The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach marks Emirati Women’s Day with a luxurious spa and dining experience. Guests can enjoy a 60-minute Emirati massage with a complimentary 30-minute express facial. To complete the experience, Shore House is offering a bespoke afternoon tea for two.When & Where: From 24 August to 6 September at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach. The spa offer is AED 540 per person.
    Enjoy a Themed Afternoon Tea at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk

     Step into a world of timeless grace at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk. Gather with women who inspire you over Dubai’s award-winning afternoon tea, Le Goûter Vault, served in an iconic pink vault at Bijou Patisserie. For a sky-high experience, opt for the version served at Club Millésime on the 51st floor.When & Where: Daily from 2pm to 6pm at Bijou Patisserie, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk. Prices start from AED 195 per person.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @dianashex More

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      7 amazing ways to celebrate friendship day in Dubai

      by

      Life

      July 30, 2025

      True friendship is a rare and precious bond—one that deserves to be celebrated with thoughtfulness, indulgence, and shared moments of joy. This International Friendship Day, elevate your traditions beyond the ordinary with these curated experiences designed to honor the extraordinary people in your life. From artisanal chocolate to shimmering soirées, Dubai offers unparalleled ways to express gratitude for those who make life brighter.
      Gift Swiss chocolate excellence from Läderach

      For the confidante who knows your heart, only the finest gesture will suffice. This Friendship Day, surprise your dearest friend with the unparalleled craftsmanship of Läderach, Switzerland’s most revered chocolatier. Each piece is a masterpiece, crafted from bean to bar with single-origin cocoa and hand-tempered to perfection. Since 2012, Läderach has redefined luxury chocolate, and their Mall of the Emirates boutique is a haven for those who appreciate the artistry behind every velvety praline and crisp FrischSchoggi slab. A box of these exquisite treats is more than a gift—it’s a testament to the sweetness of your bond.
      Visit @laderach_uae for more information.
      Deliver a heartfelt gesture with the Deliveroo X Joe & the Juice’s limited-edition cups

      From July 29th to 31st, Joe & the Juice transforms your daily caffeine ritual into a celebration of friendship. Every 16oz hot beverage ordered via Deliveroo arrives in an exclusive cup adorned with whimsical florals and a blank canvas for personal notes—be it a heartfelt message or a playful inside joke. This collaboration is a poetic ode to the little things that define true camaraderie: the shared laughter, the knowing glances, and, of course, the perfectly remembered coffee order. Available across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it’s a tender reminder that sometimes, the simplest gestures carry the most meaning.
      Visit @deliveroo_ae and @joeandthejuiceuae for more information.
      Elevate sentiment with a bespoke Flowwow bouquet

      Flowers have long been the language of emotion, and Flowwow’s meticulously curated bouquets speak volumes. Imagine presenting your friend with a vibrant arrangement that mirrors their personality—bold, radiant, and unforgettable. Each stem is a brushstroke in a living masterpiece, designed to evoke the joy of summer’s peak. Whether it’s a spontaneous gesture or a planned surprise, a Flowwow bouquet is an enduring symbol of appreciation, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories.
      Visit @flowwow for more information.
      Rejuvenate together with Skin Laundry’s HydraGlow facial

      True friendship isn’t just about shared secrets—it’s about shared glow-ups. This season, Skin Laundry invites you and your closest confidante to experience their best-selling HydraGlow Facial, now offered at an exclusive rate of AED 699 (normally AED 1,500). This transformative treatment delivers intense hydration and luminosity, perfect for reviving sun-weathered skin or prepping for a glamorous soirée. Available until August 31st, it’s the ultimate indulgence for those who believe self-care is better in pairs.
      Visit @skinlaundrymena for more information.
      Visit the Bar Du Port x L’OCCITANE’s Shimmering Ladies’ Night

      Friendship Day calls for celebration, and Bar Du Port has crafted an evening as dazzling as your closest relationships. In collaboration with L’OCCITANE, their July 30th Ladies’ Night is a shimmering affair where the first 30 guests receive a luxurious Shimmering Oil, and an online competition offers the chance to win a lavish beauty hamper. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Dubai Harbour, this event blends gourmet dining, effervescent cocktails, and the art of living well—because the best friendships are those that sparkle.
      Visit @barduport and @loccinateme for more information.
      Savor the Art of Connection at STIR’s BOGO Coffee Experience

      There’s an alchemy to friendship that’s mirrored in the perfect cup of coffee—rich, nuanced, and deeply satisfying. This Friendship Day, STIR pays homage to this bond with a buy-one-get-one-free offer for the first 50 pairs who visit. Their meticulously brewed beverages, from velvety lattes to vibrant matcha, serve as the ideal accompaniment to heartfelt conversations and shared dreams. Because while friendships may begin over coffee, the best ones endure like a finely roasted blend—only getting better with time.
      Visit @stircoffee.ae for more information.
      Strengthen Bonds (and Core Muscles) at Balans Studio

      Friends who sweat together, stay together. At Balans Studio, the reformer Pilates classes offer more than just a workout—they’re a symphony of strength, grace, and mutual encouragement. The studio’s sleek, sun-drenched interiors provide an inspiring backdrop for challenging sessions that enhance flexibility, posture, and connection. Whether you’re beginners or seasoned enthusiasts, a class here is a celebration of growth, resilience, and the unspoken support that defines true friendship.
      Visit @balansstudios for more information.
      In a world that often moves too fast, Friendship Day is a poignant reminder to pause and honor the people who make the journey worthwhile. Whether through the decadence of chocolate, the rejuvenation of a facial, or the simple pleasure of a shared coffee, these experiences are more than gestures—they’re tributes to the irreplaceable souls who stand by us.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images & Feature Image: Supplied More

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      7 Greek restaurants in Dubai that transport you straight to the Aegean

      by

      Life

      July 21, 2025

      Dubai’s culinary landscape offers globetrotting foodies an impressive array of international flavors—no passport required. For those craving the sun-drenched simplicity of Greek cuisine, where olive oil flows freely and feta is treated as a way of life, the city boasts an impressive selection of tavernas, high-end eateries, and lively spots where plate-smashing is practically mandatory. From creamy tzatziki to smoky grilled octopus, these seven restaurants bring the authentic taste of Greece to your table with remarkable authenticity.
      GAIA

      A crown jewel in Dubai’s dining scene, GAIA by acclaimed chef Izu Ani elevates Greek-Mediterranean fare to an art form. The sophisticated, neutral-toned space—accented with tasteful pops of color—sets the stage for a menu that changes with the seasons. This summer’s offerings sing with Mediterranean brightness: think tomato salad drizzled with Cycladic olive oil, marinated peppers with roasted garlic, and a sea bream carpaccio that’s as photogenic as it is delicious. The modern take on moussaka is a revelation, while the hidden NYX Bar (a celebrity favorite) offers an exclusive nightcap spot.
      Perfect for: Special occasions when only elevated Greek will do.
      OPA

      If your ideal Greek experience involves dancing on tables and shouting “Opa!” at the top of your lungs, this is your spot. More than just a restaurant, OPA is a full-blown celebration of Hellenic hospitality, complete with Zorba dancing, napkin-twirling, and the occasional plate smashed in jubilation. The vibrant, foliage-filled space sets the scene for a feast of shareable classics—creamy tzatziki, slow-cooked lamb, grilled halloumi—best enjoyed with a group of friends and a bottle of ouzo.
      Perfect for: Late-night revelry and unforgettable group dinners.
      Avli by tashas

      From renowned restaurateur Natasha Sideris, Avli brings a touch of Grecian elegance to DIFC. This chic spot is ideal for everything from power lunches to romantic dinners, with a menu that balances tradition and modernity. Start with an array of dips (the taramasalata is a must), then move on to grilled octopus or tender chicken souvlaki. The adjoining Galaxy Bar makes it easy to transition from dinner to cocktails in style.
      Perfect for: Impressing clients or dates with refined Greek flavors.
      Mythos Kouzina & Grill

      Despite the influx of new Greek spots, Mythos remains the gold standard for no-frills, authentic Hellenic cuisine. The original JLT location (now joined by a City Walk sibling) feels like a cozy taverna straight out of Mykonos, complete with a charming terrace for cooler evenings. The menu is a greatest-hits compilation of Greek comfort food: gemista (stuffed tomatoes), moussaka layered with velvety béchamel, and a mixed grill platter featuring succulent lamb chops. The baked feta, drizzled with honey and sesame, is legendary.
      Perfect for: A comforting, home-style Greek feast that won’t break the bank.
      Taverna Greek Kitchen

      Tucked into the picturesque waterways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, this relaxed spot offers a taste of Greece with a side of Dubai’s signature waterfront charm. The menu sticks to the classics—crispy calamari, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, flaky cheese pies—with ingredients imported directly from Greece. The laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for a leisurely lunch or a casual dinner after exploring the souk.
      Perfect for: A low-key Greek meal in one of Dubai’s most scenic settings.
      AMMOS

      With its whitewashed walls, airy interiors, and marina views, AMMOS channels the breezy elegance of a seaside Greek taverna. The kitchen sources most ingredients directly from Greece, ensuring an authentic experience—standouts include the orzo seafood and perfectly grilled Greek sea bass. The weekly Greek Night brings an extra dose of authenticity (and plate-smashing) to the mix.
      Perfect for: A relaxed yet sophisticated taste of the Aegean.
      OIA Greek Restaurant

      Named after Santorini’s most famous village, OIA brings a slice of the Cyclades to Dubai with its blue-and-white terrace, olive trees, and views of Ain Dubai. The menu is packed with Aegean flavors—grilled meats, fresh seafood, and mezze—all at surprisingly reasonable prices (even the ribeye stays under AED 200). The bright pink bougainvillea adds a pop of color, making this one of the city’s most Instagrammable Greek spots.
      Perfect for: Affordable Greek with vacation-worthy vibes.
      Whether you’re craving a refined seafood supper or just a simple plate of moussaka that tastes like a Greek grandmother made it, Dubai’s Greek restaurants deliver it.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pinterest More