9 fabulous activities to do in the UAE this weekend
Life
by Sarah Joseph
2 hours ago
Your weekend in the UAE, December 20 to 22, 2024.
Chic city escape with a luxury staycation
Escape to the newly opened Delano Dubai on Bluewaters Island for a chic and luxurious staycation. This reimagining of the iconic Miami brand offers 251 stylish rooms and suites, including ground-floor suites with private pools and balconies overlooking lush gardens or the Arabian Gulf. The hotel boasts signature dining experiences like the revived Rose Bar and Blue Door restaurant, a wellness studio, and the famous Delano Pool with its iconic sunken furniture. Guest rooms, named with evocative titles like Rising Light and Waking Eclipse, feature a calming tonal palette, white oak flooring, custom rugs, luxurious beds, and textured boucle furniture, complemented by Byredo amenities and Dyson hair dryers. For the ultimate indulgence, the five-bedroom Delano Penthouse, designed by La Bottega Interiors, occupies the entire seventh floor with a private elevator, multiple living and dining spaces including a Bulthaup kitchen, a shaded terrace with a bar, and a separate family wing with an infinity pool and breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline or the sea, ensuring an unforgettable staycation experience.
For more information visit delanohotels.com
Book a glamping experience
For a complete wellness experience, this bespoke retreat lies in the heart of Jubail Mangrove Park with several activities such as kayaking, waterslides and yoga sessions surrounding nature. There are also several options for your camping experience, such as individual camping, serviced camping, and luxury camping. With minimalist chic domes with neutral hues and a hands-on active camping experience in the tents, guests can wander amid nature in utmost tranquility. The domes with breakfast start at Dhs1,750 for the packages and are not to be missed out on.
For more information visit visitabhabi.ae
Unwind at one of J1 Dubai’s beach club
If you’re looking for a change from the usual spots in Dubai, the emirate’s newest and most exclusive destination, J1 Beach has opened its doors. By redefining beachfront luxury and elevating the city’s renowned culinary scene. J1 Beach promises to redefine Dubai’s dining landscape through its blend of innovative offerings, beachfront luxury, and world-class service. It’s not just a place to dine; it’s a destination where guests can explore, unwind, and savor life in true Riviera style. From Gitano to Aftican Queen, the options are endless to unwind alone or with your friends. See our Emirates Woman editor-approved guide to Dubai’s J1 Beach.
Savour a festive lunch
Throughout December at ALAYA, guests can savour a selection of carefully crafted festive-inspired dishes. Blending the vibrant flavours of the Middle East and Mediterranean with a festive twist, indulge in delectable specials, including ALAYA Panettone, a traditional Italian fruit cake infused with pistachio and saffron. Guests can also sip on four exclusive and tantalising holiday-inspired beverages, ensuring every mouthful transcends borders,creating atruly unforgettable experience. Overall, visitors can indulge in an array of tempting festive dishes and beverages, surrounded by breathtaking décor that creates an inviting winter wonderland.
For more information visit alayarestaurants.com
See this lavish Christmas tree
Garrard, the world’s oldest jewelry house, has partnered with Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, to celebrate the hotel’s fifth anniversary with a breathtaking sapphire-inspired Christmas tree and the brand’s first ever pop-up boutique in the UAE. Reflecting Garrard’s “Enchanted Night” theme, the tree is adorned in the brand’s signature Garrard Blue. Golden branches are beautifully embellished with whimsical motifs, iconic designs, and oversized midnight-blue baubles, evoking the magic of a starry night sky. A cascading ribbon of light adds an ethereal touch, symbolising Garrard’s timeless elegance and creativity. This magnificent display not only showcases the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship but also brings the festive season to life with sophistication and charm.
For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
Visit this new Peruvian spot
Designed with a perfect blend of elegance and energy, JATO offers guests a modern space where creative cuisine meets art and design, topped with curated entertainment and live music. The venue caters to Dubai’s sophisticated crowd, offering an energetic space for vibrant social gatherings, intimate evenings or professional networking. The menu at JATO will showcase creative cocktails and a rich south-American cuisine that draws its main inspiration from Peruvian influences. Designed with a perfect blend of elegance and energy, JATO offers guests a modern space where creative cuisine meets art and design, topped with curated entertainment and live music. The venue caters to Dubai’s sophisticated crowd, offering an energetic space for vibrant social gatherings, intimate evenings or professional networking. Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s stunning skyline, with views spanning from Blue Waters and Palm Jumeirah to Burj El Arab, JATO promises to redefine upscale lounging in the city at Media One Hotel.
For more information visit jato.ae
Experience breathtaking creek views
Visit the newly opened Duo Gastrobar at Dubai Creek Harbour, the latest addition to Dubai’s dynamic dining scene. Following the success of its Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognised venue in Dubai Hills, Duo has expanded to this vibrant new location, offering an exciting destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu stays true to Duo’s signature dishes, like Young Cabbage with Black Truffle and Oxtail Pie with Taleggio, with every dish crafted using locally sourced ingredients.
For more information visit opentable.ae
Rejuvenate at a sailing session
Sailing season has officially kicked off at Wind Rises in Dubai’s iconic Mina Rashid Port. Following the success of last year, Wind Rises is welcoming sailors of all levels to a year of adventure, learning, and competition on the water. Wind Rises has become Dubai’s go-to sailing community, offering accessible, affordable, and inclusive experiences for beginners and seasoned sailors alike. Whether you’re looking to race for the Wind Rises Cup, improve your skills, or simply enjoy stunning views of the Dubai skyline, there’s something for everyone. Sessions are available daily, starting at just Dhs220.
For more information visit dubai.windrises.com
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Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @tialineker More