TOP DAY-TRIP ITINERARIES FOR VISITING FRIENDS AND FAMILY P15
21 THE GREAT SARNIE BARNEY
Our favourite examples from the Dubai sandwich scene’s golden generation
27 DATING DAZE
We’d swipe right on these incredible Dubai daytime date ideas
Page 62
Later skater: We drop in on the UAE’s most gnarley skate parks
in touch
10 YALLA!
The best things to do in Dubai this month
13 THROUGH MY EYES
Romance CEO Rhiannon DownieHurst shares her most loved places in the UAE
74 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT
We check-in to check out Telal Al Ain
WhatsOn.ae
35 REVIEW
Is new DIFC opening, Duck & Waffle, all it’s quacked up to be?
36 PICNIC PLACES
The most scenic Dubai spots for a DIY alfresco meal
44 SHOP
Valentine’s shopping on a shoestring? You’ve come to the right place
61 REPORTING FOR DUTY
Our smashing guide to all the tennis aces and racket action of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
50 FUNNY GALENTINE’S
We’ve picked our favourite alternative Valentine’s movies you can stream in the UAE now
68 GCC YOU THIS YEAR
The biggest 2025 hotel openings in the Middle East
Our travel guide to the glorious Scottish capital, Edinburgh
Our stunning website is packed with news, restaurants, culture, shopping, sport and spas. It’s your online destination for stuff to do in the UAE. Get clicking. What’s On Digital Your essential guide to what’s happening in Dubai is also available on the App Store.
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer
MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice
CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne
EDITORIAL
GROUP EDITOR – WHAT’S ON David Rivers david.rivers@motivate.ae
DEPUTY EDITOR, DUBAI Miles Buckeridge miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae
DEPUTY EDITOR, ABU DHABI Dinesh Ramanathan dinesh.ramanathan@motivate.ae
ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES EDITOR Aarti Saundalkar
SENIOR REPORTER Madie Murphy
SENIOR ONLINE REPORTER Jumira Hancock
ONLINE REPORTER Afrah Bari
ONLINE REPORTER Manaal Fatimah
ONLINE REPORTER Lana Du
DESIGN
ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza
CONTRIBUTORS
Laura Coughlin, Alice Holtham-Pargin, Maverick Buckeridge
COMMERCIAL
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PRODUCTION
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CREATIVE STUDIO
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NOT MUCH IS CERTAIN IN LIFE...
EDITOR’S PICKS
Malaysian Chili Sambal, Curious Elephant Dhs60. curious-elephant.com
But death, taxes and change are as close as it gets to a given. And whilst choice isn’t a common side order for the courses on that menu, we are at least given the opportunity to choose our reaction to them. Which is handy because change is a fairly integral part of life in Dubai. Rarely is a city so illuminated by the sparks of flux as our own fair metropolis. Change is both the product and prerequisite of progress, shifting desert sands that bare fruits of rebirth, fresh faces, new horizons and a never ceasing conveyor belt of cool stuff to coo over.
Last month we had to say farewell to our outgoing Group Editor, Alice – a lady who, among her many glittering, chiffon-embroidered attributes, embodied positivity towards change. So it’s with that spirit I’m looking towards the next chapter of What’s On. I hope she will be *delighted* with it. The Greek philosopher, Hierocles once said that we can never step into the same river twice, but if we bring an out-sized novelty inflatable, a pair of sunnies and a decent playlist we can at least make a day out of it.
This month we welcome the very first edition of our What’s On Northern Emirates print magazine, and we have a new Group Editor – David Rivers, who brings novel perspectives and plans to explore exciting as-yet-untrodden paths. But, at our core, we remain committed to the same mission. We still want to show you the best of What’s On offer in this ever-changing land, whether that’s sandwiches to make you salivate (page 20), the region’s best dates (page 26), where to skate (page 62), or the most exciting new things on our plate (page 43).
We’ve already boarded the abra ride to a fresh tomorrow, and I’m confident we’ve brought the correct change.
Enjoy the issue,
Oversized Palestine Hoodie, The Giving Movement Dhs399. thegivingmovement.com
The Last of Us Part II: Remastered, PS5, Virgin Megastore Dhs159. virginmegastore.ae
Dubai Creek Painting, Drawdeck Dhs85. drawdeck.com
WHAT’S ON
Trying brilliant Basque delicacies at… Jara
I recently checked out Jara by Martin Berasategui at The Lana, Business Bay, and it’s safe to say I have a new favourite spot. We’re big on Spanish food in the What’s On office, so my eyes lit up when I saw its brilliant Basque offering on the menu. Even by Dubai’s standards, Business Bay views decorated by a nighttime Burj Khalifa are enough to stop you in your tracks. When you’re done admiring that, tuck into the lobster. Chef’s kiss.
@jarabymartinberasategui
– David Rivers, Group Editor
Singing along with the stars… at Saadiyat Nights
It’s no secret the capital has been hosting some incredible names from the entertainment world of late, because let’s face it, that’s all you’ve been concerned with these past few weeks. But several miles from the madness, there’s another cool series of concerts happening, and it’s called Saadiyat Nights. The series is staging several great artists under the stars over the next few weeks, including Christina Aguilera and the great Lionel Richie in February – so make sure you go down and check it out. It’s classy, placid, refined, and one for your diaries.
@saadiyatnights
– Dinesh Ramanathan, Deputy Editor, What’s On Abu Dhabi
Smelling like a treat with… Kayali
A brand who I didn’t discover until I moved to the UAE two years ago and now I’ve turned into a collector, trying to gather all of the different smells like Pokémon. They last so well but not overpowering either. My favourite at the moment is the Juicy Apple. Delicious.
@kayali
– Madie Murphy, Senior Reporter
My new morning obsession… Nespresso Gran Latissima
I’ve finally treated myself to my first Nespresso machine, the Gran Latissima. As much as I’d love to go full barista and master the art of brewing coffee the old-school way, I’m not there yet. But this machine is a game-changer for how simple it is to use, and I’m loving it so far. That first warm sip every morning has quickly become my favourite way to start the day – it’s like a little boost of energy to set things in motion.
@nespresso
– Lana Du, Reporter
Erasing the steaks at… Three Cuts
If cooking is an artform, there a few purer, more authentic mediums than the preparation of steak. It’s traditionally kept free from the medaling distractions of the side show – with no overpowering garnish to hide behind, the providence and the skill with which it has been cooked, are laid bare. And you’ll find few new places in Dubai that demonstrate both the quality and excellence of execution as well as Three Cuts. It’s a rare highlight of simple stuff well done.
@threecutsdxb
– Miles Buckeridge, Deputy Editor, What’s On Dubai
Getting a little too obsessed with F1 thanks to… Formula 1: Drive to Survive
I started watching the Netflix series because I didn’t want to attend Abu Dhabi Grand Prix absolutely clueless. But slowly, I found myself getting hooked. It even led me to booking tickets to the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix in April, and I am so excited. Jeddah, here I come.
@netflixmena
– Aarti Saundalkar, Arts & Culture Features Editor
Taking long lunch breaks with… Mohalla
Indian hotspot Mohalla has a brand new menu with a variety of new regional Indian dishes and we all love a good Indian takeaway in the office. Quite graciously, we were sent a selection to sample in the office, and we had quite the lavish feast. We recommend the matka murgh, the sorshe dum aloo, the nimona paneer and the doodhiya khadai masala. You may or may not want to take a big, fat nap afterwards, but that’s not on us.
@mohallarestaurant
– Manaal Fatimah, Online Reporter
PARTY WITH BLOND:ISH
When: Friday, February 7
Feel the energy at Playa Pacha Pool and Beach Club on February 7 as Blond:ISH takes over the decks. Known for her infectious beats and magnetic vibe, this is an evening designed for music lovers who crave a vibrant, immersive experience. Expect electrifying beats, good vibes, and unforgettable moments at this exclusive event. Early access tickets are priced at Dhs150, Dhs250 including one drink, and Dhs9,000 for VIP tables up to six guests.
@iconsbypacha
YALLA
BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN FEBRUARY
Words: Lana Du
TREAT YOURSELF TO THE ULTIMATE WAGYU FEAST
When: Opening February
Calling all foodies and meat lovers: This February, step into a world of melt-inyour-mouth Wagyu at Ken. With Japan’s finest Awa Wagyu, expertly prepared and paired with fresh seafood flown in from Japan, the omakase menu is a celebration of craftsmanship and flavour. Whether you’re a Wagyu lover or just simply after something new and exciting, this is one spot you won’t want to miss.
RECONNECT WITH YOUR INNER CALM
When: Throughout February
Step away from the noise and embrace serenity at Ré social wellness club. Located in Dubai’s One Central District, this haven of self-care invites you to unplug, pause, and nurture your well-being. From personalised wellness consultations, holistic physical therapy, and tailored personal training sessions to yoga and Pilates classes, followed by a relaxing infrared sauna and a refreshing ice bath, this wellness haven invites you to prioritise selfcare in the most serene setting. @reonecentral
EXPERIENCE THE ARTISTRY OF KOREAN CUISINE
When: Opening February Hanu, a family-friendly gem opening at St Regis Gardens, combines contemporary Korean flavours with stunning design. Helmed by Chef Kyung Soo Moon, the menu dazzles with dishes like Korean beef tartare and oversized Kimbap. Don’t miss the interactive ‘Meat me at the grill’ experience for a unique dining adventure.
@hanu_dubai
CELEBRATE DUBAI’S CREATIVE EDGE
When: February 1 to 6
The global fashion spotlight turns to Dubai this month. Featuring Autumn/Winter 2025/26 womenswear and menswear collections, it’s the region’s premier platform for trendsetting designers and innovative style. With exclusive runway shows and events at Dubai Design District (d3), Dubai Fashion Week blends emerging talent with established designers, showcasing the city’s role as a rising fashion hub.
@dubaifashionweek
ENJOY EMIRATI CUISINE WITH A TWIST
When: Opening February
This is Gerbou, a soulful celebration of Emirati heritage. Opening this February in Nad Al Sheba, this homegrown concept blends sustainability with a deep reverence for Arab culture. Housed in a beautifully renovated 1987 building, its design is inspired by the warm tones and textures of the region, creating a space that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. Expect a menu that pays homage to Emirati cuisine with a creative twist, served in an inviting atmosphere that feels like a modern majlis. Whether you’re there for the food, the ambiance, or both, Gerbou promises to be a standout addition to Dubai’s dining scene.
@gerbou
RELIVE THE MAGIC OF THE 80’S AND 90’S
When: Saturday, February 22
REWIND Festival, the UK’s biggest 80’s and 90’s music extravaganza, returns to Dubai on Saturday, February 22. Held at Bla Bla Dubai, the event features legendary artists like Tony Hadley, Midge Ure, The Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Tunde (voice of the Lighthouse Family), The Christians, Katrina, Toyah, Tiffany and Disco Inferno. Tickets start at Dhs395, so dust off your retro gear and get ready for a blast from the past.
@blabladubai
Pick n Icks
Shakespeare really nailed it when he said “the course of true love never did run smooth”. So to celebrate Valentine’s Month in a more authentic way, the What’s On team are sharing what makes their heart flutter, and their shoulders shudder about that crazy little thing called love.
David Rivers, Group Editor
PICK:
Dubai feels a little like a love language itself. Serene sunsets, romantic restaurants and golden beaches can make living here feel like a constant honeymoon with the right person. As for that right person? Picks include a sense of humour, adventure and willingness to laugh at my jokes…
ICK:
Being rude to staff, family or friends is an excellent way to give me the ick. Who do you think you are, exactly?
PICK:
Aarti Saundalkar, Arts & Culture Features Editor
I’m not wowed by fancy restaurants (and the four digit bill that comes along with them). Take me out for chicken wings, maybe a hot pot or a lovely breakfast... Save the spenny stuff for special occasions.
ICK:
Lacking a sense of humour. I’m a gal who likes to laugh. So you need to keep me entertained. Basically, you need to be the Chandler in my life. Be my best friend so you know the type of stuff that gets me laughing my heart out (and know when to stop).
Madie Murphy, Senior Reporter
PICK:
Random flowers, just because. Especially when you’ve had a bad day, it makes everything better.
ICK:
Leaving laundry NEXT TO the wash basket. I’m airing my husband’s dirty laundry here… literally. Honestly, just put your dirty socks a few centimetres to the right and we’re good.
Miles Buckeridge, Deputy Editor
PICK:
Sass. I’m naturally attracted to confidence and wit, I think we all are – but the extent to which I’ll race through a field of red flags just to be close to it, is pathologically unhinged. And authenticity. People who truly understand themselves, that’s real beauty to me.
ICK:
You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, I’m not, but if you have no interest in self-improvement, or examining the swirling profundities of the universe and the human soul, it’s a hard no from me.
Lana Du, Online Reporter PICK:
Someone with great taste in music and a genuine appreciation for it – especially when our tastes align. It’s an instant connection for me.
ICK:
If you’re not an animal lover, and if you think my cat is “just a cat,” then we’re not on the same wavelength – it’s a hard pass for me.
Dinesh
Ramanathan, Deputy Editor
PICK:
Knowing what you want. If you’re clear in your head about what you want (and don’t want), that’s more help than any filters an app can give you.
ICK:
Time wasters. Don’t let anyone waste your time (and please don’t waste anyone’s). We’re all struggling to find some to ourselves amid the chaos of life, and the last thing you want is someone that doesn’t respect your time (or you).
Manaal Fatimah, Online Reporter
PICK:
My husband and I are usually on opposing ends of a debate, and we end up there a lot, and while he can drive me up a wall sometimes, I love that we can do that and then resume regularly scheduled programming.
ICK:
I have a name. I think it’s a pretty okay name. I prefer to be called it. I don’t prefer honey cruffin or buttercup baby or sugar moo blah blah whatever.
Through MY EYES
THE UAE ACCORDING TO...
Rhiannon
Downie-Hurst
Each month, we ask residents to share a guide to the UAE through their eyes, from their favourite haunts to hidden gems, must-try dishes and local brands they stand behind. For February – the month of love – we spoke to Rhiannon the Founder of Bride Club ME and Co-Founder of The Big Proposals (@brideclubme @thebigproposals), institutions that know a thing or two about romance. Here she shares some essential spots that you ought to have on your love radar.
To me, the desert at sunset is undeniably romantic. There’s something magical about the stillness of the dunes and the sunsets. I particularly love private dining experiences in the desert, as they offer a truly intimate and unforgettable moment. One of my favourites is the Platinum Heritage Private Dining Experience, set in their exclusive oasis in the heart of the desert and a protected reserve. @platinumheritage
The helipad at the top of the Burj Al Arab is up there as an extravagant proposal spot. For those who want to go all out, along with bespoke décor by a proposal planner, it’s one that will leave you speechless.
The UAE has so many amazing options, and each one offers something unique. For romantic stay vibes, my husband and I really enjoyed The Ritz Carlton, Al Wadi Desert in Ras Al Khaimah. Another favourite is Qasr Al Sarab in Abu Dhabi, with its secluded and romantic atmosphere. As a family, we absolutely love the Intercontinental Fujairah, and its beachfront location, family-friendly amenities, and activities that keep adults and kids happy. @ritzcarltonalwadidesert @anantaraqasralsarab @intercontinentalfujairah
There are so many stunning venues to choose from, including some gorgeous options emerging in Abu Dhabi, like the breathtaking Anantara Santorini. However, I’d be a traitor if I didn’t mention my own wedding venue, The Melia Desert Palm in Dubai. It’s a boutique venue surrounded by lush greenery and expansive lawns, with charming and unique event spaces. Adding to its charm, you’ll often see beautiful horses around. The venue has a truly magical energy, and I had the most incredible wedding day there. @anantarasantorini @meliadesertpalm
The best sunsets I’ve seen have been in the desert, where light pollution is minimal, and sunsets are clear. It’s so peaceful and serene and during the cooler months, my family and I try to enjoy them as much as possible. Al Qudra lake is also a pretty spot to enjoy a picnic as the sun sets.
A visit to my favourite area of Dubai, Bastakiya, is a must. Strolling through the cobbled backstreets, enjoying a traditional Emirati breakfast at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, shopping at the souks, and having lunch at the Arabian Tea House are all wonderful experiences. To top it off, a traditional abra ride across Dubai Creek offers a simple yet charming way to soak in the old-world charm of Dubai and connect with its rich heritage. @smccudubai @arabianteahouse
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WORDS :MILESBUCKERIDGE
to rest
When you’re confronted by convention-defying, record-breaking sights every day it’s easy to forget how awesome they truly are. You may now scarcely look up as you pick your way through the hordes of tourists enraptured by the dance of fountains and selfie opportunities with the world’s tallest building – your disgruntled tuts the insidious symptoms of the amnesia of familiarity. Dubai is a city so disproportionately rich in artefacts and landmarks of wow and wonder that
our calloused apathy descends quickly and becomes hard to shake. Every now and again though we should seek to see things through the eyes of outsiders. And playing tour guide to visiting friends and family can be a potent reminder of the spellbinding beauty of our host city. If you want to get the most out of these custodial duties, we’ve put together some of our favourite day trip itineraries. And if you don’t have tag-a-longs, that’s fine too. They work just as well for appreciation refresher courses.
ITINERARY ONE:
Find yourself in the Dubai desert Find yourself in the Dubai desert
There’s been a lot of talk about the relatively recent trend of commoditising experience. It’s a societal shift that’s largely attributable to the life goal agenda of Millennials and Gen Z – a demographic that values ‘feels’ far more than ‘things’. And whilst this notion is not necessarily a new one – people have been banging on about travel broadening the mind or “not being able to take your toys with you” for centuries – it’s an aspiration modality embraced with unprecedented gusto by these wise young souls. I fully agree with this tidal turn, although my advocacy of their ‘memories not Maseratis’ campaign would be significantly easier to cheerlead for if they weren’t so insistent about charting every second of it, with pantomime-level pouting, on their social media channels. There is a point to this preamble, I promise. The Dubai desert, with its nomadic sand, fleeting fauna and forever horizon is an archetypal form of the unique experience ‘finding yourself’ bucket list tick, and a true glimpse into the immortality of the immaterial.
You don’t have to spend the whole day in the desert, in fact my suggestion would be to save your morning for exploration elsewhere and instead do an afternoon, evening and overnight within the amber dunes. You should feel no shame in stepping away from DIY delusions that building an expedition yourself is always cheaper or better. Leave it to the experts and save yourself an admin, and possible vehicular, breakdown. If you book a desert safari with Arabian Adventures (evening from Dhs479, overnight from Dhs895 per person), you can expect a pick-up at around 3pm for a transfer into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR).
Along the way, your knowledgeable guide can field any burning questions you might have on topics including, but not limited to, venomous scorpions, ancient seas, biome flora and life-giving aquifers. Cruise the dunes, play I-spy with the native wildlife and watch the horizon flip through a swatch book of candy hues as you make your way to a secluded sundown spot, before climbing onto a camel for a dromedary transfer into the Bedouin-inspired camp. There you can enjoy themed entertainment, star-spotting opportunities, a grand barbecue dinner, entirely optional gin bar provisions and a night nature walk before taking up residence in your safari tent. You’re up at the ‘squawk of falcons’ the next morning for a rustic breakfast and an early wildlife drive before the sad journey home.
As mentioned above, it is entirely possible to plan your own desert excursion – one of my favourite Dubai activities is a family star-gazing trip. But going on safari with a trusted company means you can access uniquely charismatic areas of the desert, and outsource the entertainment duties. And isn’t that just another wonderful aspect of Dubai life that’s easy to take for granted?
ITINERARY TWO:
Take a walk back in time to Dubai’s goneby Take a walk back in time to Dubai’s goneby
Our retrospective adventure begins at the Creekside leisure community of Al Seef, so start by using the Canopy by Hilton as your launch pad for a scenic stroll along the waterfront. Breeze past the modern restaurants and bobbing dhows, and you’ll notice the aesthetic style of the buildings slowly slip from new and shiny to rustic and old-timey. It’s all recently built, but the architectural fashioning deliberately calls back to the storied past of Dubai’s early settlements. You’ll find, amongst the faux-mud-and-stone facades, what looks like the world’s oldest Starbucks, Emirati culinary kingpin Al Fanar, and a Museum of Illusions (entrance is Dhs80 for adults) – a worthwhile brain-befuddling, enfantentertaining pit stop.
Take a few more steps, and you’re in the enchanting embrace of the Al Fahidi Historical District – explore its traditional alleyways, galleries and museums. We recommend refreshments to be taken in the courtyard of the XVA Art Hotel, an underrated cultural gem, or the legendary Arabian Tea House. Homages to heritage,
these spaces really paint the most poetic sort of whimsy on their walls and across their menus.
Al Fahidi Fort houses The Dubai Museum (currently closed for renovation) and, with a birth date of 1787, represents the oldest building in Dubai.
Afterwards, smart sojourners take an abra ride over the Creek (Dhs2) to explore the souk district. Arriving into the Old Souq Marine Station – egress immediately confronts you with stalls and stores offering fragrant spices, glinting gold and assorted flashing, beeping, shrieking trinkets – it’s a genuine safari of the senses. All that promenading got you peckish? Al Bait Al Qadeem is a classic Middle Eastern restaurant within easy snacking distance. Get the meat majboos for a fitting locally-inspired curtain close on a day of cultural appreciation.
ITINERARY THREE:
Sit down, buckle up, and keep your arms inside the moving vehicle because we’re going to have to move fast to fit all this in. It’s an early start, 5am and we’re headed for the hills. Hatta’s hills to be precise. Early birds can make the beginner-friendly hike to see the famous Hollywood-inspired sign, but the culturally curious amongst you should take a trip to Hatta Heritage Village (free). The 3,000-year-old settlement gives an insight into the arcane life of our ancient forebears – less traffic, but a much lower life expectancy, just another case of swings and DIFC roundabouts. Whilst in Hatta, you should make time for some active alfresco pursuits. There are mountain bike trails at Hatta Wadi Hub; 35km of hiking trails through the Hajar hills; an aerial adventure park (packages from Dhs199); water slides and paraglides (from Dhs95); rock climbing (from Dhs50), trampolining (from Dhs15), net-walking (from Dhs15), gel ball (a high energy, low-impact version of paintball from Dhs85), zorb football (from Dhs35), ziplining (from Dhs110), slingshot canons and plenty more on the way.
Take a deep dive into Dubai culture, served with a side of adventure
Take a deep dive into Dubai culture, served with a side of adventure
The next stop on the magic carpet ride through Dubai requires a visit to Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz, the de facto art capital of the emirate. If you’re hungry, grab hand-roll sushi at Kokoro or some matcha-based beverage action from Pekoe. Wander through contemporary galleries like Leila Heller or Carbon 12 (free access); create a bespoke, paint-daubed masterpiece at thejamjar studios (from Dhs105); your own signature scent at Oo La Lab (from Dhs320); and finish the day with an indie cinema showing at Cinema Akil (you’ve really hit the sweet spot if you arrived during their consistently excellent Reel Palestine programme). If you want a little, uncomplicated fun palate cleanser before bed time – head to Chaos Karts next door. It’s augmented reality karting drome with ticket prices starting at around Dhs179 for a 20-minute session.
ITINERARY FOUR:
Jump out of the frying pan and into Asian street food fire
Jump out of the frying pan and into Asian street food fire
Balance is important in life, and if your metabolism is stoking a walk-fuelled calorie bonfire, well – you’ve earned the right to a few edible indulgences haven’t you? Sure, by the end, the walk may be more of a waddle, but that’s ok, we’re all in it together. Whilst Dubai has more than its fair share of fancy diners, it’s those accessibly priced, full of flavour, street eats that we’re currently craving. So join us, as we go on an Asian flavours tour into the juicier cuts of Satwa.
The savour safari begins at, where all good stories should, a roundabout. Satwa Roundabout to be precise. And the only way to open your street food account in Satwa is with the Dubai institution that is, Ravi Restaurant. Best enjoyed from a Karachi tapas angle – with sharing portions of authentic chicken tikka, kebabs, lamb chops, biryani, daal, and mutton kadai. Freshly baked naan and roti should be subbed in for cutlery.
But you’ll need to peel yourself out of your seat at some point because we’ve got plenty more to see (/ eat). Head east along Al Diyafah Street (towards The H Hotel), soaking up the vibrant street life and shop fronts that make Satwa a people-watching paradise. Your next stop is Pars Iranian Kitchen for a true taste of traditional Persian dishes. Indulge in their famously fragrant kebabs, delicate mounds of saffron rice, and hearty stews like ghormeh sabzi and gheimeh bademjan.
We’re switching gears now, and exploring another titan of Asian cuisine at the aromatic Filipino Market centred around Al Hudaiba Road. Set your Snack Nav for a visit to Bilaot Restaurant and prepare for an edible TedTalk on the finer points of Pinoy cuisine. There’s a strong range of seafood, sharing platters, street food, and island staples such as adobo, sisig and breaded milkfish. If you’re waving a white flag already, a leche flan here is a respectable way to call it a day, but for those that are brave of heart and led by stomach, we have a special treat for the grand finalé.
Our saga draws to a close with a degustation detour for a choice between two of the region’s most acutely adored sweet treats, baklava and kunafa. And when in Satwa, it has to be Firas Sweets (next to AlBaik on Al Diyafah Street). Get a fresh slap of the gooey, crunchy, nut stuff and enjoy it with Arabian coffee. Then head home, because it’s probably well past your bedtime, and you’ve got some treadmill miles to rack up tomorrow.
Dubai’s sandwich scene is in a golden age
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
Fun bit of trivia for you: The sandwich was invented by a British Earl in the 18th Century because, and I kid you not, he wanted a portable meal that meant he wouldn’t have to get up from his gaming table. The man whose name is now eternally bonded to the bread-pillowed snack stack, revolutionised food forever because his parents never set the equivalent of screen time boundaries. Whatever the muse, his creation spawned an endlessly branching tree of unique and beautiful forms, until reaching its gastronomic zenith – the Dubai sandwich scene, 2025.
This is our autopsy of the best sandwiches in Dubai, from daunting doorsteps to slimline sarnies, chaotic cross sections to bougie baguettes. If it’s between bread, has thrilling fillings, and represents a pearl worthy of the Earl that spawned its name... you’ll find it sandwiched in here somewhere. Come on down and join the club.
Meat shawarma, Al Safadi, Dhs15
No good stories start with a salad, but few end without a shawarma. Singling out any one shawarma joint for GOAT status is a labour destined for conflict and misery, but I have to pick one, and for me it’s Al Safadi. It’s a classic coupé, stuffed with premium meat, fries and pickles and dripping in silk touch tahini. An outstanding example of the regional favourite.
@alsafadirestaurants
The Tribbiani, BRIX Café, Dhs49
You’re always checking in on other people, but rarely does a sandwich ask... how you doin’? This is where that one-way traffic stops. BRIX’s signature sando is looking to make F.R.I.E.N.D.S and inspire people. Within its toasted sesame embrace you’ll find buttery tranches of beef pastrami, smooth emmental cheese, and a mustard mayo. You’re more than welcome to join me on a trip to Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1 to get it, but sharing is a moo point. @brixcafe.ae
The Chopped Cheese, Rascals Deli, Dhs68
Chopped sandwiches really are having a moment right now, as well they should. It’s basic sandwich geometry, chopped contents mean more surface area, which in turn means a greater coating of sauce. It also results in less filling real estate being frivolously given away to that vaccuous thief of joy, air pockets. The chopped cheese from Wasl Square deli, Rascals is a riff on a classic, a ballerina in Air Force Ones – a chopped beef patty, cheese, lettuce, onions and a weapons-grade special sauce all loaded into a real Philly-style hoagie. Youse guys already know. @rascalsdeli
Brooklyn Hero, Gino’s Deli, Dhs49
Gino, whomever they be, has placed a real emphasis on the figurative arms of their sandwich hugs. I’m talking about the bread, the format of which is freshly baked, sinfully crispy panuozzo, making every serving an irresistible moody hybrid of pizza and sando. That’s not to say what goes into the hug is paid any less attention. Gino revels in the minutiae of top billing fillings, but my pick of the crunch bunch, is the Brooklyn Hero. It’s peak barrio chic – smoked turkey, Italian salami, dill pickles, American cheddar and a saucy slap of mustard-mayo. Available for lunching aldesko via Deliveroo.
@ginos_deli
Constanzia, Wise Guys, Dhs54
Found in DIFC but with unmistakably Italian-American NJ roots, Wise Guys is the Tony Soprano of Dubai sandwich shops. The general, el capo, the big don daddy. And the ratios? Fugget about it. There’s more meat packed into one of their carby parcels than there are mangled vowel sounds in the New Jersey pronunciation of ‘coffee’. They also extend their protective racket to vegans too, the Constanzia is a raucous mix of marinated tomatoes, onions, celery sticks, pickled roasted peppers, grilled eggplant, raisins, and fermented chili honey. It’s an offer not even habitual carnivores can refuse.
@wiseguysdubai
Wagyu katsu sando, Reif Kushiyaki, Dhs198
Paying a sum just shy of Dhs200 for a sandwich might feel like the kind of carefree capitalist abandon that lead to the global financial crisis, but that’s only before you know what goes into it, and just how good it tastes. It’s a toasted milk bread ensnared, deep-fried wagyu beef tenderloin, rugged up in charcoal panko crumbs, and slathered in a stadium rock sauce. You can pick it up in several of the Reif Othman outlets, but our recommendation is to get it from the Dar Wasl source. Rumoured to be one Chef Reif’s favourite menu items, it’s just pure sando art aristocracy.
@reifkushiyaki
Cubano, Maxzi, Dhs55
Captain’s Tuna Melt, Birch Bakery, Dhs45
Mixing fish and cheese is considered a hate crime in the culinary heartlands of Italy, which makes the tuna melt something of a rebel. A bad boy, whose fondant-pulls don’t play by the rules, and thus automatically all the more attractive. Joe & the Juice’s version has proved to be a popular addition to the Dubai sandwichsphere, but if you want to pay real heretical homage-io to pesce e formaggio, it’s all about Birch Bakery’s sultry little off-theshoulder, open sandwich, umami tsunami number. Find it in Al Quoz.
@birch.bakery
This Al Quoz hidden gem has a treasure trove of glittering foodie finds including what are, pound-for-pound, some of the best burgers in Dubai. But we’re here to focus on the brands ‘wich game – and their bread-hemming prestige doesn’t end with the natty patties. Choosing between their Cubano and salted beef options for brand ambassador was a genuinely fraught task, but ultimately – you have to side with Che Guevara’s spirit sandwich. Slow-cooked veal brisketta, seeded sourdough bread, mustard, rocket, pickles, and garlic mayo. Viva la bread-a-lution.
@maxzithegoodfoodshop
Posh cheddar and pickle baguette, Pret A Manger, Dhs36
Café chain Pret might have a fancy French name, but the heart of this creation beats to the drum of Albion. Cheese and pickle is a uniquely British substrate for sandwiches – and as with most delicacies from the Sceptered Isle, it’s a bit of an acquired taste. Which isn’t always a polite euphemism for ‘bad’. The stone-baked baguette features sharp cheddar, acerbic pickle relish, sweet roasted tomatoes, red onion, rocket and mayo. It’s le ploughman’s au pain. @pretuae
Cheese tawouk
sandwich, Malak Al Tawouk, Dhs28
Lebanese import Malak Al Tawouk doesn’t care if you have a personalised number plate, it’s not keeping score on your pronunciation and has zero opinion on the decentralisation of currency. All it’s bothered about is serving up zero-fuss, great-tasting Middle Eastern comfort food. Exemplified by their signature cheese tawouk melt, with marinated chicken breast, cheese, garlic, coleslaw, fries, and pickles. 28cm (or 38cm for Dhs31) of showboating protein.
@malakaltawoukuae
Pastrami Reuben, Mattar Third Culture Barbecue, Dhs85
If you’d back any human in the region to piece together a world-class beefbased sandwich, the safe bet is Pit Master General, Hattem Mattar. The meatmancer, brisket whisperer, a man surely born of smoke & fire, he is the ultimate authority on high-brow, cooked-cow ensembles in the UAE.
And in his tenured faculty at Souk Al Bahar, you can wrap your chops around his interpretation of the classic reuben, which includes 14-day aged pastrami, sourdough bread, pickles and house mustard. One Mattar, I’ll never get tired of dealing with.
@mattar.ae
New York smoked salmon Bagel, 1762, Dhs46
I know. I’ve gone rogue. But this is an inclusive list, and banning bagels just because they’re different smacks of snacking in justice. Plus 1762’s (in JLT) deep-filled smoked salmon bagel is absolute bread-with-a-hole goals. It’s a thick deli wodge of cured salmon, spring onion cream cheese, red onion and the briny, juicy pop of tiny wee capers. @1762.mena
French beef dip sandwich, Cassette, Dhs82
If you’ve ever wandered into The Courtyard of Al Quoz, you’ll be able to attest to its transportive qualities. It’s like Dubai’s own Diagon Alley. Outside the Hala taxis cruise past gentrified warehouses, inside – you keep expecting an Italian woman to open a window, hang out her washing, and bark the tail end of a heated conversation with a hidden agent provocateur. Cassette’s French dip sandwich is possessed of that same trans medium sourcery, it’s Parisian bistro birria – braised beef with smokey raclette, dijon mustard mayo, and a beef jus dip.
@cassettedxb
Furrata, La Fabbrica Italiana, Dhs55
You don’t need to put anything on 72-hour fermented sourdough focaccia, but if you feel compelled to gild the lily – let it be with something that doesn’t dull its natural sparkle. Sesame seeds perhaps, creamy stracciatella cheese, and a light lacing of extra virgin olive oil. Find La Fabbrica Italiana in Wasl 51.
@la_fabbrica_italiana
Bahn mi with roasted duck, Saigon Station, Dhs37 Vietnam’s contribution to the world of sandwiches, the bhan mi, is apex Franco-Asian fusion food. And at Saigon Station (Silicon Oasis), we urge you to take a sensorial safari through their between bread collection, where you can tuck into saucy, spicy chicken, egg, fish and beef variants. But their best work, in my opinion, is demonstrated in the dazzling roasted duck bhan mi, a traditional baguette section packed with aromatics on tender meat. A Hannoi heist at just Dhs37.
@saigonstation
From the classic to the quirky, don’t disappoint with our guide to the best daytime date ideas in the UAE
WORDS:
LAURA COUGHLIN
While the UAE might get a bad rap for dating, it’s an underrated city for a date, especially daytime fun. Seriously, the options could not be more impressive: The country’s niche workshops, interesting parks, ocean sports and hiking trails that lead across our mountains are ideal for swooning. Here, we’ve done the hard part for you – coming up with 15 daytime ideas in the UAE that are sure to woo a first date or reignite the spark with a long-standing significant other.
SET SAIL TOGETHER
There’s something incredibly romantic about being out on the open water, with the wind in your hair and the horizon before you. With Wind Rises Dubai, you and your partner can take a hands-on sailing lesson on a FAREAST 28R racing keelboat. Whether you’ve always wanted to try sailing or are seasoned seafarers, the company offers expert-led lessons that’ll teach you the basics of coastal sailing in the beautiful waters of Mina Rashid Marina. It’s a fantastic way to spend quality time together while learning a new skill. @windrisesdubai
LAZY RIVER ROMANCE
Sometimes, all you need for a perfect date is to relax and let the world float by. That’s exactly what you and your boo can do on a lazy river. Just lying there, legs flopped over an inner tube is undoubtedly one of mankind’s best inventions to incite joy and having tried all of the options in the UAE, it’s the long, twisty one at Aquaventure that gets our stamp of approval. It doesn’t matter how old you are, lazy rivers are epic and floating down a river, with your better half in tow, is guaranteed feel-good vibes. @aquaventureworld
MAKE A RACKET
Learning to play padel as a couple is one of the best date ideas because it’s all about teamwork, communication, and having fun – three things every relationship needs. Padel is usually played in doubles, so you’re constantly working together, strategising, and – hopefully – having fun through the game. Plus, it’s a great way to stay active while enjoying each other’s company. Head over to the super stylish Padel Edition in Al Quoz for a coaching session and pick up some pro tips in a laid-back setting.
@padeledition
SHOOT YOUR SHOT
The couple that shoots together stays together. Or so say the folks running the JA Shooting Club in Jebel Ali. For those not totally sure what clay pigeon shooting is, it isn’t literally a clay pigeon. It’s a kind of pottery discus that is flung by a launcher into the air while you blast away at it with a shotgun. It’s a lot of fun and makes for an exciting date. Plus, with the scenic desert backdrop and expert guidance, it’s a fantastic way to bond while trying something new together. jaresortshotels.com
RIDE HIGH
The UAE has a long-standing equestrian heritage, and what better way to experience it than by taking a romantic horse ride through the desert? Al Jiyad Stables, located near Al Qudra, offers the perfect setting for a couple’s ride, with private lessons or group rides available depending on your skill level. With stunning views of the desert landscape, riding through this serene environment gives you both a chance to connect with each other and nature. Whether you’re seasoned riders or beginners, it’s a timeless date that captures the magic of the UAE’s natural beauty. @aljiyadstable
BIRDWATCH
A means of escape, birding offered a reprieve from heavy thoughts and anxieties, with time spent outdoors simply observing wildlife. Buy some binoculars and head over to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary together, which offers bird watching through customised bird hides placed in strategic locations around the reserve. The area is famous mainly for the flamingos, but it’s also a great winter spot for seeing migrating birds, including the Greater Spotted Eagle. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, 7.30am to 5.30pm (October to March), 6am to 6pm (April to September). Tel: 800 900. dm.gov.ae/discover-dubai/ ras-al-khor
LET LOVE SOAR
OK, we might be hitting proposal territory with this one, but it’s pretty high on the romance scale. Book a 20-minute helicopter tour over Dubai’s iconic landmarks. Passengers will glide over Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, The World Islands and Burj Khalifa, with each turn offering breathtaking views. The aerial views provide an unforgettable perspective of the city’s most famous sights. helidubai.com
GET LOST IN THE WOODS
With perfect weather at your doorstep, why not make it a date to remember and explore the new urban hiking trail at Mushrif Park? This 10km walking path is Dubai’s first free-to-use track, offering everything from easy strolls to more challenging hikes for seasoned adventurers. Along the way, you’ll find stairways, bridges, sculptures, and public facilities, giving you plenty of chances to stop, enjoy the views, and share a quiet moment together. For a bit more excitement, head to Aventura, a thrilling tree-top adventure course where you can swing from branches and zipline across 80 exciting challenges.
@aventuraparks
BE BOWLED OVER
Is bowling the most obvious date idea ever? Sure. But that’s because bowling is really fun and an excellent way to get a little insight into your potential paramour. Are they competitive? A good sport? Do they eat nachos with their hands right after putting their fingers in the bowling ball? How do they feel about bumpers (read: cheating)? Our favourite place to go is Brass Monkey in Bluewaters, which has a classic bowling alley vibe. @brassmonkeysocial
POTTER ABOUT
STIR UP ROMANCE
A cooking class is a great way to do something different on your next date. The UAE is filled with delicious restaurants, but some now offer cooking classes. Sagra is a lovely – and relatively new –Italian restaurant in Dubai, and they offer group pasta-making workshops on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at their trattoria in Jumeirah 3. They range from intro classes to freestyle classes focused on Sagra’s recipes. Alternatively, private pasta-making sessions can also be arranged. @sagra.dubai
Try something different for your next date by getting your hands dirty at a pottery taster session at stylish ceramics studio. Spend an afternoon learning the basics of hand-building and come away with a few pieces that can be glazed and fired – the perfect memento of a successful date.
If you’re lucky, you could have a Ghost moment by the end of the class. @okaceramics or @studioclay
TAKE A HIKE
Hiking makes for a fantastic date idea because it gives you time to connect while surrounded by nature. If you’re looking for an easy but scenic trail, the Wadi Showka trail, just an hour from Dubai, is perfect for beginners. The path is fun, easy to follow, and offers stunning views throughout. You can enjoy a gentle stroll, chatting and soaking in the scenery, or if you’re seasoned hikers, you can bond over an activity you both love. Don’t miss the 700-step cemented staircase near the Dam –climb to the top for incredible panoramic views.
PICNIC BY AL QUDRA LAKES
Embrace the peace and quiet of the Dubai desert in a prime spot at Al Qudra Lakes. A picnic in a pretty spot is the antithesis of an over-the-top expensive meal at a flashy restaurant. Picnics are low-pressure –you don’t even need to pack a hamper, just grab some snacks from the local shops and settle in.
TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
If your date is an animal lover, there’s no better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a thrilling day at Dubai Safari. Embark on a 35-minute safari tour and get up close with over 35 animal species in their natural habitats, from lush rainforests to rugged mountains. Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including savannahs and wetlands, while learning about wildlife conservation. You can even feed friendly giraffes, rhinos, and elephants, making it a truly interactive and unforgettable experience. @dubaisafari
GAME ON
Board games used to have a bit of a boring reputation, but not anymore. These days, they’re cool, and the UAE has embraced the trend with a growing number of board game cafés. So if you’re looking for a bit of a nerdy date this year, try DNA in Abu Dhabi – the capital’s first board game café offering unlimited access to the massive board game library, or the What’s On award-winning Unwind café in Dubai. @eat.play.dna, or @unwinddubai
Celebrate love this Valentine’s with timeless elegance, where romance meets luxury and unforgettable memories await.
Symphony for Two at Seagrill Bistro
Embark on a gastronomic journey with a thoughtfully curated 4-course set menu designed to mimic the stages of falling in love. Let your taste buds intertwine in a culinary love affair, accompanied by the complimentary sparkling on arrival.
February 13–15th
AED 550 per couple
Tranquil Oceanfront Affair at BASK
Boldly Unattached Brunch at BA-Boldly Asian
Celebrate love-free indulgence with bold avors, quirky vibes, and a delicious escape from typical romance—no Cupid needed!
February 14 & 15th
Starting at AED 250
Escape to a romantic day on the beach with a private cabana for two. Enjoy chilled champagne with berries, a delightful exotic fruit platter, sharing bites, and a heart-shaped cake, all set against the serene backdrop of the ocean. The perfect way to celebrate love in style.
February 14–16th
AED 1,500
Celebrate Love. Indulge in Romance
Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day at Serenity Spa. Indulge in exclusive specials designed for romance, relaxation, and unforgettable moments with your partner. Escape together into pure bliss. Couple’s Massage AED 1,900
REVIEW:
JOU JOU BRASSERIE
The Mediterranean on your plate…
They say the sense of smell has a unique way of connecting directly to our emotions. Sitting on the breezy terrace of Jou Jou Brasserie, I took my first bite of a dish laced with lemon zest flown in from the Amalfi Coast, and it instantly drew me in. It’s exactly what a lemon is meant to be –fragrant and organic, yet with a special intensity that sets it apart. Though I’ve yet to experience the Amalfi Coast, in that moment, I could almost see the golden cliffs, the vast blue sea, and trees heavy with fruit. This wasn’t just a garnish; it was an invitation to experience something far beyond the table. I love olive oil, but Jou Jou’s is special. Arriving from Northern Spain, it’s rich and velvety. If you’re an olive oil aficionado, you’ll understand the urge to forego utensils entirely and just tear
into fresh, warm bread, dipping it again and again – not as a side note, but as the main act. Its silky texture was simple yet deeply satisfying.
The dishes themselves carried the same kind of charm. We started with the Taste of Jou Jou (Dhs285): an artful selection of vitello tonnato, creamy burrata, braised Romanesco artichoke, croquetas, gnocchi fritti, cecina de Wagyu, roasted turkey ham, beef salciccia Calabrese, provolone dolce PDO, Italian Nocellara olives, and mostarda. Every dish brought something unique to the table. The burrata was pure creaminess, the bluefin tuna loin tartare (Dhs120) was as delicate and bold, but the pear and ricotta ravioli stood out (Dhs115): soft, sweet ricotta balanced with just the right touch of citrony zest, a note that felt like a secret ingredient unlocking the whole dish. The lobster mafalde pasta was a showstopper too (Dhs220) – each strand coated in a silky, rich sauce, with delicate pieces of lobster adding layers of flavour without trying too hard. Then came the grain-fed
black Angus striploin (Dhs220), with its perfectly caramelised crust and melt-inyour-mouth texture. A rich, flavourful sauce accompanied it, adding depth without overpowering the quality of the meat, allowing its natural flavour to shine. And let’s talk about the churros: crisp on the outside, soft within, served with dipping sauces that wrapped up the meal with just the right amount of sweetness. The flan, meanwhile, was whisper-light – a sweet finale that didn’t overwhelm and left us wanting more.
But Jou Jou isn’t just about what’s on the plate. The ambiance pulls you in – the elegant décor, a terrace kissed by a gentle breeze, and the kind of lighting that makes everything (and everyone) glow.
The experience, from the view to the food, was a reminder of how dining should be: more than just the meal, it’s the way a place can make you feel. And at Jou Jou, I felt like I had found a little piece of the Mediterranean in the heart of Dubai.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Monday to Saturday 7am to 11.30am, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, 6.30 to 11pm, Sunday from 7am to 11.30am, brunch 1pm to 4pm, 6.30 to 11pm. @joujoudubai
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
With standout Mediterranean dishes and a breezy terrace, Jou Jou Brasserie is here to stay.
RESTAURANT REVIEW:
DUCK & WAFFLE DUBAI
Cutting through the waffle
As an ex-Londoner, the Duck & Waffle name means something to me. I’ve had many bleary-eyed breakfasts in the Bishopsgate original, overlooking the City of London, where the restaurant was born in 2012. On a wave of growing popularity, an Edinburgh branch followed and now the mallard express has landed in Dubai, specifically DIFC ’s Innovation One Tower.
I have to admit, I was skeptical of the location as the restaurant isn’t particularly high up the floors of the tower, and the view really was part of what made the London outpost such an iconic venue, however I quickly learned that those nostalgia hued vistas were largely just window dressing.
THE INTERIOR
surrounding booths for a cocktail before dinner if you’re tempted, with a selection of mixology (including mocktails) to please any tough critic. As you’re guided through to the main restaurant, you pass an open kitchen that allows you to see the chef’s team in action as they prepare their dishes.
The first few steps into the restaurant are as warm and inviting as the golden hue that illuminates the whole room. The staff are waiting with wide smiles and polite greetings. There is a small bar area with
The high ceilings of the restaurant open out into the outdoor terrace, which is as large as the inside, dotted with greenery and red fabric accents, giving a cosy but elegant feel. The city skyline hangs in the
// REVIEW
Words: Madie Murphy
background, not overly close, so you can still appreciate the calm of the dark sky.
THE FOOD
The food is really what made the experience for me. Each dish blends’ sweet and savoury tastes and the combination is amazing. We tried various different dishes throughout the evening, some of my favourites being the beef bacon wrapped dates (Dhs33), the spicy ox cheek doughnut (Dhs70) and I couldn’t get enough of the foie gras creme brûlée (Dhs92). For mains we had to try the duck and waffle signature serving, the dish that of course dictated the restaurant’s name. It is a crispy leg confit, a fried duck egg and mustard maple syrup. There’s a reason it’s the name of the restaurant, it’s an incredibly flavourful dish, and they have a veggie version too. The service is amazing, as expected in Dubai, but there’s something so genuine about the staff here.
The green side of Dubai: Top picnic spots to explore
Dubai is renowned for its towering skyscrapers, futuristic architecture, and vibrant city life. But beyond the glittering high-rises and buzzing streets lies a quieter, greener side to the city that’s just waiting to be explored – and the cooler winter months are the perfect time to discover it. With the perfect weather for outdoor activities, there’s no better opportunity to pack a picnic basket and enjoy Dubai’s beautiful parks, lakes, and natural landscapes. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful escape or a fun day with friends and family, here are some of the best picnic spots in Dubai.
Safa Park
Zabeel Park
Zabeel Park offers more than just a picnic experience – it’s an adventure. Home to the iconic Dubai Frame, the park has sprawling green lawns, shaded picnic areas, and plenty of spots to enjoy a relaxed afternoon. Barbecue facilities and pedal boat rentals make it ideal for a day out with family or friends, and the variety of walking trails lets you explore the park’s scenic landscapes. Zabeel Park, Zabeel Area, Near Al Jafiliya Metro Station, Dubai
For years, Safa Park has been a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. Spanning 64 hectares, it offers ample green space for picnicking, jogging paths, and even barbecue zones. With its stunning views of the Dubai skyline, it’s a perfect blend of city life and nature. Families gather here for the kids’ playgrounds, while adults can retreat to the park’s quieter areas, making it a versatile spot for everyone to enjoy.
Safa Park, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai
Al Qudra Lake
Looking for a peaceful retreat away from the city noise? Al Qudra Lake is your perfect spot. Tucked away in the desert, it offers a tranquil environment for a leisurely picnic, where you can watch the wildlife and enjoy the vast open space. The lake is home to over 170 species of birds, so nature lovers will find plenty to admire while you relax and take in the stunning sunset.
Al Qudra Lake, Madinat Latifa, Dubai
Creekside Park
Located along Dubai Creek, Creekside Park is another top picnic spot for families and groups of friends. With plenty of open space, barbecue areas, children’s playgrounds, and even a putting green, it’s perfect for an active yet relaxing day out. Don’t miss the chance to hop on the cable car for a bird’s eye view of the city.
Hatta Dam
For those willing to venture a bit farther, Hatta Dam is a scenic gem. Surrounded by mountains and calm waters, it offers the ideal setting for kayaking, hiking, or simply enjoying an outdoor meal in a spectacular landscape. This spot promises a more adventurous picnic experience, perfect for those who want to add a little thrill to their outing.
Hatta Dam, Dubai
Jumeirah Beach Park
Dubai Municipality Headquarters, Deira, Dubai
Dubai Miracle Garden
Al Barsha Pond Park
Often overlooked, Al Barsha Pond Park is a peaceful, family-friendly spot perfect for a picnic. With a large pond, walking tracks, and even cycling paths, it’s a great place to enjoy a quiet afternoon. You can rent pedal boats to explore the pond or simply unwind by the water while enjoying your picnic.
Al Barsha Pond Park, opposite Al Barsha Mall, Al Barsha 2, Dubai
While it may not be your typical picnic spot, Dubai Miracle Garden is a mustvisit for nature lovers. During the winter months, the garden bursts into colour, with flowers arranged in stunning displays. While you might not be able to spread a blanket on the grass, you can still enjoy snacks and take in the floral beauty of one of the most picturesque locations in Dubai.
Dubai Miracle Garden, Street 3, Al Barsha, Al Barsha South, Dubai
Want to combine a beach day with your picnic? Jumeirah Beach Park is the place to be. With its clean sandy beaches, shaded picnic areas, and barbecue zones, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The sound of the waves adds a calming touch, making it a relaxing setting for your winter outing.
For a unique picnic experience, head to Mushrif Park. Known for its desert appeal, it’s one of Dubai’s largest parks, with more than five square kilometres of space to explore. Picnic areas with barbecue facilities, camel rides, and cycling tracks make it a fun-filled destination for everyone. The park also features an international village with tiny houses representing different countries, adding a quirky charm to your picnic day.
Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej St, Mushrif, Dubai
Words: Miles Buckeridge
BUSINESS LUNCH REVIEW:
JATO
Introducing Media City’s best-kept secret
There’s only ever one response to “pssst, can you keep a secret?”
And that is “yes”. Because people who can keep a secret are likely to be fully transparent about their lock-andkey capabilities, and people who can’t keep a secret will lie, because they are functionally incapable of taking another breath until they find out what that secret is. But I’m about to share a secret that you shouldn’t keep – you should, in fact, shout it from the rooftops either metaphorically or from the actual rooftop on which it’s situated, enjoying what I would argue is the best lunch in Media City.
Jato is a Peruvian restaurant, bar and lounge slotted into the space left by Baby Q on level 43 of the Media One building. The loft of this Latin croft means you get privileged views of the surrounding Dubai Marina towerscape, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Harbour. On the other side
of the windows you’ll notice subtle style distinctions between the various functionbased spaces – but with a convergent theme of South American sartorial glamour. Nazca limes, Cuzco crimson, Mayan marbling and flecks of Aztec gold. We sampled the business lunch menu, which offers such outlandish value, you genuinely will feel compelled to check with the staff that you’ve understood the deal correctly. “Yes sir” it really is one starter and a main for Dhs109, or two starters and a main course for Dhs129. This thrifty economy would make sense if certain elements of service, or quality were offered up to the sacrificial altar, but as we soon found out, not one drop of experiential luxury is spared. The full culinary might of Peruvian chef John Evans is brought to bear on your accumulated plates. Our party of six were able to experiment with a fair swathe of the entree spread, aided by our tables’ – and Media City’s hardest working – lazy Susan. The corn empanadas with uchucuta sauce, so lovingly parcelled and densely packed with rustic flavour, sparkle with rare treasure allure. Within this starter collection, you’ll find the wildly exotic and unequivocally authentic – like the excellent prawn Mancora tacos, aji
croquettes, and the absurdly well-dressed botanical masterpiece that is the Andean salad – alongside more modern or fusionled dishes: usuzukuri, the superb wagyu coriander brisket stew-filled gyoza and PFC (Peruvian Fried Chicken).
Chef Evans isn’t done with the showand-tell performance just yet. The mains are so good, despite the fact you’re walking out at least Dhs109 lighter – you’ll still feel like you’re transporting stolen property. You’d unhesitantly pay twice the set menu price for the juicy, fiery, gloriously Latin mess that is the wagyu burger, alone. The wagyu tenderloin comes with a refined mash potato foam – but search and you’ll find passionate flashes of aromatics and nods to Jato’s jaguar spirit. The chicken tallarin enjoys a similar blending of worlds, with its strips of fettuccine luxuriating in a Peruvian pesto and huancaina sauce.
If you’re partial to sweet treats and have the urge to explore, make your way through Granny’s chocolate cake (Dhs45), she’s eager to oblige.
WHAT’S
ON VERDICT
By no means should you restrict your Jato visits to lunchtime – there’s so much more on offer, but it’s a great entry point, and the perfect start to a no-shame, no-secrets, Latin love affair.
Level 43 Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, business lunch Mon to Fri midday to 3pm. @jatodxb
The only date you need in your Mayan Calendar.
Words: Manaal Fatimah
DUBAI BLING BLING...
Homegrown jewellery brands you need to know about…
For many, jewellery isn’t just a piece of metal or an adornment - it’s a way to express oneself, create a distinct identity and sense of style. In fashion, it’s your personality made manifest, a unique marker of who you are. Accessorising can jazz up any bland or beige outfit – and if you’re looking to expand your collection of bling, here are some amazing homegrown labels to shop from.
Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery
Founded by Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum, Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery is for the real lovers of luxury. Collections aimed at empowering women with stunning creations, they’re inspired by her grandmother, a woman with remarkable strength, an entrepreneur and a visionary. The collection is made with white, rose and yellow gold, with ethically sourced diamonds and gems.
@sanaalmaktoumofficial
Enso Design Lab
Bymystique
Based in Dubai, Enso Design Lab taps into that minimalist trend, with the brand’s designs focusing on sustainability, craftsmanship, simplicity, functionality, and high-quality materials. They really pull together that chic-abstract-clean-girl aesthetic and if you’re looking for long wear and use, this is it for you. Explore their collection of women’s and men’s jewellery pieces as well as sunglasses, haircombs, and more.
@enso.design.lab
It’s all about the celestial realm – Bymystique’s jewellery is handcrafted in the UAE and draws inspiration from the sun, the moon, the stars and all that glitters in the celestial realm. The brand uses 18-karat recycled gold, and adorns the designs with sparkling pavé diamonds, mother of pearl and miniature coloured gems. @bymystiqueofficial
Gafla
Created by Hamad Bin Shaiban and Abdulla Beljafla, this is a brand deeply infused with Emirati heritage and beauty. The brand reinvents the traditional stories and symbols of Arabic culture and brings it to life in a contemporary, fine jewellery look. They have numerous collections to choose from - take your pick. @gafla
Enso Design Lab
Gafla
Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery
Bymystique
Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin
REVIEW: THE SPANIEL
Can this British brasserie make its mark on Bluewaters 2.0?
There’s somewhat of a renaissance happening on Bluewaters. It started with the arrival of two new lifestyledriven hotel brands – Delano and Banyan Tree, replacing Caesars Palace. They brought with them a duo of brilliant beach clubs: sporty chic La Cantine, and eccentric and glamourous Maison Revka. And now, with Ain Dubai back turning, the restaurant and retail scene is getting some welcome new arrivals, bringing dynamic and exciting new flavours to the island.
Among them is The Spaniel, which promises a quintessential British brasserie experience for guests. Historically, British fare elevated anything beyond the traditional boozer doesn’t work so well in Dubai: long-standing Dubai residents may remember The Ivy or The Rivington Grill, while more recent closures have included Geales and Marina Social. But The Spaniel looks to change that, with a keep-it-simpleyet-refined approach to its décor, service, and menu.
It certainly looks the part. Fronted in a smart racing green, it’s instantly cosy and inviting, and stands out from its rather clinical looking neighbours in The Wharf. Inside, brown leathers, warm chandeliers, and aged woods adorn the two-floor space, and while downstairs feels more casual, we’re guided upstairs on our Sunday
afternoon visit, where the seating is still relaxed, but the whole aesthetic feels a little fancier, thanks to paintings hung in gold frames, and a grand glass-backed bar to one side. The space is flooded with natural light with being inside The Wharf, but it doesn’t affect the ambience, and as live music begins to play – an acoustic soloist performing renditions of hits by the likes of Oasis and Ed Sheeran – you’d be mistaken for thinking you were back in a posh gastropub back in England.
On the culinary front, former Marina Social head chef Will Stanyer has a passion for reinterpreting British classics, and his menu is extensive and interesting. The menus arrive in green and ruby red leather covers, and we peruse the a la carte menu before turning our attention to the Sunday roast, deciding bits from both menus are the way to go.
We order several starters to share, like The Spaniel Scotch egg (Dhs55), which is a little dry, despite the walnut ketchup it’s served with; and the stilton and walnut salad (Dhs65), a surprise tablewide-hit, with the cheesy stilton, sweetness of the Hatta honey and crunch of pear creating a dish that’s full of flavour. The crab on toast (Dhs115) is also excellent, with a zesty lemon mayo and notes of apple – it’s another creative and well executed dish.
The roast menu (available Sundays from midday) has four options (beef,
chicken, lamb, and celeriac, but we go for the beef (Dhs135). It’s quality meat cooked to perfection with a tender pink middle. A light and airy horseradish is more cream than sauce, and we slather it onto the meat, which arrives plated with three crispy roasties and a Yorkshire pud that’s slightly overcooked for our preference. We then heap our plates with the sides that swiftly arrive at the table – a bowl of thick gravy, a cauliflower cheese with the perfect ratio of melty cheese to nicely cooked cauliflower, a buttery carrot and swede mash, and crunchy green beans. They’re generous portions of everything, and all arrive piping hot. Which makes choosing whether to have dessert, all the more challenging. But after perusing options like sticky toffee and Bakewell Alaska, we opt for apple crumble (Dhs55) and after eight chocolate tart (Dhs55). We’re glad we forced ourselves to make room. While the crumble is fruity and warming, the chocolate tart is rich and indulgent, well balanced with a scoop of mint ice-cream.
Both encourage us to lick our spoons clean.
The Spaniel, The Wharf, Bluewaters, 12pm to 12am Mon to Thurs, 12pm to 1am Fri, 9.30am to 1am Sat, 9.30am to 12am Sun. Tel: (0)4 554 3728. thespanieldxb.com
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Casual and approachable service and interiors –paired with a brilliant menu from a team that clearly know their stuff – make this the perfect Sunday lunch spot.
BREAKFAST REVIEW:
TOTO
Is Cristiano Ronaldo’s restaurant breakfast menu goals..?
Football fan or not, it’s near impossible you haven’t heard of Cristiano Ronaldo.
But what you may not have done yet is dined at TOTO, the Dubai restaurant where the iconic footballer is an investor.
The Downtown Dubai venue first opened its doors in the summer of 2024, with backing not just from the ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star but tennis legend Rafael Nadal, too.
goal is to capture the Italian cinema era of the 1950s and 60s, and it works.
Large, black and white photos hang on the wall, with large chandeliers and high ceilings.
But the weather is too inviting so I opt to sit outside, starting with an English breakfast tea.
I’m glad I did, the entire area remains covered in shade throughout the morning while offering sunny views of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, which is still far away enough for the noise of cars not to disrupt a conversation.
The furniture feels expensive and heavy, with grey tables, cushions and crockery.
Dhs65 (Eggs Benedict with salmon).
I start with the Omelette Al Parmigiano (Dhs50). A win for tastiness, the egg and cheese come together for an excellent dish. If not that, then go for the scrambled eggs with veal, mozzarella and spinach, hitting that spot of the comfort food you’d expect on the lazy Sunday morning.
One of these in isolation won’t quite fill you up, though, so I recommend adding something sweet.
I go for the Croissant Pistachio (Dhs45). While it’ll look incredible on your Instagram story, it doesn’t quite hit the buttery notes that really make a pastry pop.
But there are a decent range of other options if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, though, with Yoghurt Granola (Dhs45) and Pancakes (Dhs40) among them.
Just like a business lunch, a breakfast menu can be a great hack to experience a swanky restaurant at cheaper prices.
Recently, it launched a new breakfast menu running from 9am to 1pm with some eye-catching dishes.
So What’s On decided to spend a sunny Sunday morning checking it out. Here’s what we thought...
Inside, TOTO is gorgeous to look at. The
It’s also pet-friendly, so animal lovers will welcome the company of four-legged visitors perching up next to them (they may want your food, though).
But while I’d love to sip a cuppa and watch the world go by, I’m hungry, and a few things on the menu catch my eye.
On the sweet menu, dishes start at Dhs30 (Cornetto croissant) going no higher than
TOTO offers that with a setting, outdoors and indoors, tailor-made for a chilled weekend morning (although it runs every day of the week).
Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, open daily from 12pm.
@totorestaurantdubai
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Another goal scored for Ronaldo.
Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin
FEBRUARY
What’s Trending:
THE LADIES’ NIGHT: UNWINE AT THE NICE GUY
Free-flowing drinks and live music are the basis of the award-winning UnWine ladies’ night, which has found a new home at The Nice Guy this year. Running from 8pm to 10pm at the LA hotspot’s sultry Hush Hush room, expect two hours of wine and the soulful sounds of Jamie Deville every Wednesday. @unwine.dxb
THE NEW OPENING: NALA Trust Natasha Sideris, the inspirational foodie entrepreneur and founder of tashas Group, to make us realise that a fancy canteen is exactly what Dubai needed. New in Alserkal Avenue, there’s a neat space to dine-in, as well as a counter overlooking The Yard where you can pick up bits to-go. From inventive French toasts to creamy pesto pasta, and drinks that include the Nalagato, a zesty sorbet-based serve with cold brew and bottled faux-gronis, it’s the perfect place to meet your mates. @enjoynala
In the sea of new openings, dining deals and drinks offers that pop-up almost daily in the UAE, it can be hard – no, impossible – to know where to spend your time and dirhams. But fret not, because we’re here to strip through the noise and present you with the best of what’s on, new and and noteworthy this month
Waldorf Salad and steak cooked just the way you like it with a side of crispy golden fries – at an affordable Dhs155. @relaisdelentrecotedubai
THE LUXE STAYCATION:
ANANTARA AL YAMM
Anantara Sir Bani
Yas has long been a treasured spot for a unique staycation that’s worlds away from the city. But no longer just about its golden beaches and wildlife reserve, one of its three resorts – Ananatara Al Yamm Villa Resort – has undergone a facelift, reimagining its 30 luxurious villas into contemporary oases of barefoot luxury. They feature inviting pools and invite guests to recline on extended outdoor decks, enjoy butler service and embark on an array of wellness and culinary adventures. Rates start from Dhs1,995. @anantarasirbaniyas
What’s (NOT) Trending:
OVERPRICED VALENTINE’S DEALS
Do you know what says I love you? Handwritten letters, homecooked meals, and thoughtful gestures. Do you know what doesn’t say I love you? A sub-standard four-course meal for two with a bottle of bin-end sparkling wine, for the extortionate price of Dhs2,000. Dubai restaurants, take note.
THE ONE-DISH MENU: RELAIS DE L’ENTRECÔTE
With queues around the block for the original in Paris, a recipe for its sauce so secret that it’s kept in a vault, and a menu featuring just one main course, Relais de L’Entrecôte is a must-try new Dubai restaurant. Taking up residence in ME Dubai, it prices its two-course menu of a
THE CONCERT SERIES:
SAADIYAT NIGHTS
Super-sized stadium tours are out – intimate concerts are in. Saadiyat Nights is coming to the end of its second season, and this open-air venue has become my favourite. With Robbie Williams, Michael Buble and Boyz II Men already under its belt, this month Saadiyat Nights rounds out in starry style with Christina Aguilera and Lionel Richie.
@saadiyatnights
UNNECESSARILY LOUD MUSIC
If I’m meeting someone for dinner, it’s probably because I want to talk to them. So your DJ drowning them out with a techno remix of The Ketchup Song gets a big thumbs down.
Words: Madie Murphy
Selection box of cookies, Dhs52.50, billionairecookiesdubai.com
Phone holder, Dhs95, sanddollardubai.com
BARGAIN HUNTING
Rack up those brownie points on a budget with these Valentine’s Day gift ideas. Remember it’s the thought that counts…
The J1 iteration of Dubai’s stalwart Greek restaurant hits the high notes by the beach
It’s been six years since Gaia made its smash hit debut on the DIFC dining scene. The star pairing of hospitality heavyweights Fundamental (then Bulldozer Group) – lead by Evgeny Kuzin; and chef Izu Ani, formerly at the helm of foodie favourites like LPM and La Serre, put upscale Greek dining on the DIFC culinary map, paving the way for a slew of successful homegrown restaurants. Fast forward to 2025, and the two have unveiled Sirene Beach by Gaia, a seaside iteration of the beloved GreekMediterranean restaurant, one of a dozen new additions to J1 Beach.
And how does Sirene look to stand out in a sea of new beach clubs? Firstly, by being the world’s largest – the sprawling space is part-restaurant, part-beach club, and the two are linked by whitewashed bars, a sparkling swimming pool, and a lounge arranged around a DJ booth where guests dine with their toes in the sand – it’s all big, bold and beautiful. The neutral shades and endless white stone are laced with pops of colourful bougainvillea in shades
of cerise and orange – the whole aesthetic reminiscent of the ohso-chic Cyclades.
There’s plenty of nods to the original Gaia in DIFC – a fresh fish display, lovely neutral uniforms worn by the team, and plenty of big tables covered in crisp white tablecloths that ensure the air of sophistication remains, even at the beachfront. There’s a more chilled vibe at the pool and beach, where plump loungers all gaze down towards the water; so if you’re here for the party, book the restaurant. Under the cover of the indoor space, there are more tables for two and four, while the ones down towards the DJ booth are designed for bigger groups, but the indoor-outdoor spaces seamlessly blend, and all command striking views of the sea.
The menu isn’t extensive, but there’s lots we like the look of –starting with the bread, which arrives freshly baked and with a side of tangy tomato dip that’s refreshing and light. We stick in familiar territory with the seabream carpaccio (Dhs225), and the fish is fresh and cut into slivers,
served with a trio of dressings of fragrant truffle, zesty mandarin, and sour lemon, and each offers a complementary flavour. The Greek salad (Dhs135) is a generous glass bowl of neatly cut onion, cucumber and tomatoes, tossed in a traditional dressing and topped with a slab of barrel aged feta that balances everything perfectly. From the mains, we opt for the king prawns and a sea bass (market price) cooked to order from the fresh fish display – the simple seasoning of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon lets the high-quality ingredients sing, and is best paired with a bowl of crispy fries (Dhs50) and baked vegetables (Dhs50).
We make a late afternoon reservation, and even mid-week as we’re ordering dessert (go for the fried Greek donuts (Dhs75, drizzled in a sweet honey) the music is turning up and magnums of chilled rosé begin to pour at tables around us. Guests start to migrate to the bars, lingering for sunset drinks as day turns to night.
Sirene Beach by Gaia, J1 Beach, daily 10am to 1am. Tel: (0)4 570 4766. @sirene_dxb
WHAT’S
ON VERDICT
Go for the food, stay for the vibes.
REVIEW:
HARUMMANIS 51
Chef Akmal Anuar’s most personal restaurant concept to date
It’s always a thrill when a lesser-known cuisine arrives in this city, but it’s even more exciting when that cuisine comes backed by one of the country’s brightest culinary stars. Enter Akmal Anuar. If his name isn’t already familiar, it should be. The Singaporean chef has earned his stripes in the industry, first making waves with the contemporary Japanese concept 3fils, and later as the culinary force behind Michelin-starred 11 Woodfire, the muchlauded Goldfish, and Otoro in Abu Dhabi. Between all of this, he launched Osteria Funkcoolio in Port de La Mer, Dubai – a fun detour from his usual style. But it’s Harummanis, his newest venture, that feels like the most personal yet.
Harummanis 51 in Dubai to honour my mother,” Anuar tells What’s On during a soft launch of the restaurant, held for friends and family.
The setting, housed in the beautiful old Lana Lusa space on Wasl 51, offers an aesthetic that’s familiar. But once the kitchen starts firing, the fragrance of spices and slow-cooked stews quickly signals that we’re in for something new. Anuar and his wife, Inez, describe their offering as “Singapore Malay cuisine” – a subtle but distinct regional twist that feels like a third sibling to both Singaporean and Malaysian cooking. While there are familiar elements, the menu is unlike anything you’ll find, in Dubai at least.
EAT
// REVIEW
Words: Laura Coughlin
Named after the beloved harumanis mango – an aromatic variety that holds deep significance in Malay culture –Harummanis 51 also honours Anuar’s family legacy. The name was originally that of his mother’s nasi padang hawker stall in Singapore, which has been in operation for over 30 years. “I’m opening
I’m crushed to learn that their signature beef cheek rendang isn’t yet on the menu, a dish which, according to Inez, features over 20 ingredients and is slow-cooked for four hours to achieve a melt-in-yourmouth texture. Imagining that rich, coconut-bathed stew, I already know I’ll be back for it. Still, the menu delivers some knockout dishes.
The satay, for instance, is a revelation. Skewered chunks of wagyu beef and lung are grilled to perfection, then drenched in a coarse, jammy peanut sauce that’s complemented with a sprinkle of fresh spring onions. It’s a robust, juicy bite with layers of flavour. Then there’s ketoprak, a room-temperature vegetable dish topped with a rich Japanese sesame dressing, caramelised peanuts, and a half-boiled egg – perfectly fresh, yet creamy, with the contrasting textures making it an irresistible bite.
One of the most striking dishes is the crispy fried duck, tucked inside a starchbased hotcake, and served with a chilli boh mayo that has the comforting tang of a Malay birria. There’s something heartwarming about how these ingredients are re-imagined with both technical precision and the kind of emotional depth that comes from Anuar’s connection to this cuisine.
In his pursuit of bringing his Malay heritage into the rarefied world of haute cuisine, Anuar has taken a risk. But from where we’re sitting, it looks like he’s hit the jackpot. Only time will tell whether Dubai’s eclectic dining scene will fully embrace this unique chapter.
Harummanis 51, Wasl 51, Dubai, Tue to Sun noon to 11pm. Tel: (0)56 5361674. @harummanis.51
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Harummanis 51 is a love letter to his mother, and that’s a sentiment that will resonate with anyone who’s ever cooked with passion and purpose.
Chef Akmal Anuar
FEBRUARY
EVENTS CALENDAR
2025
GULF BUSINESS BREAKFAST (DUBAI, UAE)
BREAKING GROUND: e UAE real estate outlook
SEPTEMBER
2025
GULF BUSINESS BREAKFAST (RIYADH, KSA)
FINTECH FRONTIERS: Focus on AI, DeFi and digital payments
APRIL
2025
GULF BUSINESS BREAKFAST (DUBAI, UAE)
TECH AMBITIONS: How the UAE is becoming an AI, blockchain leader
JUNE
2025
GULF BUSINESS BREAKFAST (DUBAI, UAE)
TRADING AHEAD: State of the UAE’s online investment sector
SEPTEMBER
2025
GULF BUSINESS AWARDS (DUBAI, UAE)
Recognising the best in key sectors across the GCC
NOVEMBER
2025
GULF BUSINESS BREAKFAST (DUBAI, UAE)
BUILDING TOMORROW: Innovations and sustainability in UAE real estate
BY
ART | THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC
Words: Manaal Fatimah
IGIRLS: ON FILM
The best movies to watch with your girlfriends this Galentine’s
f February 14 is Valentine’s Day, February 13 is Galentine’s Day and yes, it is very much a real thing. Now, the general notion is that Galentine’s was invented by the bitter, single women as a way to spite all the happy couples out there who are about ride into the sunset because their man planned one mediocre dinner, on one single day out of the whole year But there is nothing that is stopping women in relationships from celebrating the fortifying powers of female friendship too. Just do it a day early, gather the G-Unit, pop the corn, prep the tea, and get in ladies, we’re going to the movies...
Legally Blonde
A classic tale of rediscovery, empowerment and incredible fashion choices – Legally Blonde takes you into the life of Elle Woods, a sorority queen with money coming out of her ears and perhaps only a pretty face to offer. Her boyfriend is dumping her to go to law school and on a whim, she enrolls there to get him back, ending up discovering a passion and potential she herself never imagined she had. It’s a fail-proof feel good flick and of course, you can’t forget the courtroom looks –pink never looked so good. Stream on Prime Video
1Mean Girls
Another classic, Mean Girls is an essential part of the pop-culture syllabus you need this for character development, because everyone at some point has been on one side of the Cady-Plastics dynamic. Teenagers are mean and that’s just the reality of school life – it’s usually not that deep, but still, ‘The Plastics’ leader Regina’s downfall is a truly satisfying end to the story. And of course, who can forget the The Plastics’ iconic Christmas carols. If you’re looking for a no-brainer with some heart, this is the one to watch. Stream on Prime Video
13 Going on 30
This is one of my favourite movies of all time, and will fill your heart with such indescribable joy. I may be biased, but Jenna Rink’s development arc intersects with a magical story of love and redemption, and it’s just such an enjoyable watch every single time. Mark Ruffalo as Matt is a lovable champion of everything Jenna does, and that’s exactly what we need to see on Galentine’s. It’s chock full of nostalgia and emotions we all have felt at some point in our lives. Stream on Netflix
The Devil Wears Prada
One of Meryl Streep’s most memorable performances – this film never goes out of style. Following the whirlwind journey of Andy Sachs, a fresh-faced aspiring journalist, as she navigates the cutthroat world of high fashion, it’ll take you through an emotional roller coaster. Anne Hathaway’s transformation as Andy is a magical moment in the movie and, from jaw-dropping couture to razor-sharp dialogue, it’s the perfect choice for a feel-good night in with the girls. Stream on Disney+
3 64
Barbie
5
Barbie was a moment and a half – no movie has ever divided the Internet this way, be it for or against the idea of a movie about a plastic doll in a plastic world. But Greta Gerwig’s genius took over and delivered a film about female empowerment with the sharpest of wit and satire. Her direction seamlessly blends satire, heart, and a dash of existentialism, making this more than just a nostalgic trip. It’s a story that speaks to everyone who’s ever wondered what it means to live authentically.
Rent on Google Play
Bridget Jones’s Diary
Bridget is all of us. She’s imperfect, miserable, hopeful, lovable and hilariously relatable. Her diary is full of aspirations and her life is full of men she shouldn’t be associating with. What must she do when she wants to lose weight, find the love of her life, escape her sleazy boss and so on and so forth. Bridget Jones’s Diary takes us through the laughs and the tears of normal human life. Perfect for when you’re with your girlfriends and want to feel seen. Stream on Netflix
Pitch Perfect
7
Following Beca as she reluctantly joins the Barden Bellas, an all-girls a cappella group desperate for a comeback, the film is packed with insane renditions of some of our favourite hits, and the promise of unwavering togetherness. Equal parts funny and empowering, it’s a story about finding your voice, embracing your weirdness, and crushing it on your own terms. There’s some romance in there to tug at your heartstrings, and a satisfying end to the story. Stream on Prime Video
Words: Laura Coughlin
The Ultimate Dance Party
BREAK THE BLOCK
Break the Block returns to Expo City Dubai on February 1, at Al Wasl Plaza for a high-energy urban block party. From 8pm ‘til dawn, immerse yourself in electrifying beats, epic light shows, and unforgettable performances. Headlined by British electronic legend Bonobo, with additional sets from Soulection’s JAEL and Rosey Gold, this event promises a non-stop dance fest. The world’s largest interactive immersive dome will transform into a pulsating visual spectacle, syncing perfectly with the music. If you’re a fan of high-energy electronic beats and immersive visuals, this urban block party at Expo City Dubai is your perfect night out this month. Over 21s only.
Tickets start at Dhs195. @breaktheblock.me
THREE TO TRY:
FESTIVAL EDITION
3 relaxing spots to try sound healing this summer
DESERT GROOVE
For a sublime mix of desert serenity and eclectic tunes, Desert Groove at The Dunes Desert Resort in Ras Al Khaimah is the festival for you this month. Returning on February 7 to 9, this three-day celebration will feature over 30 local and international artists across two stages, seamlessly blending music, art, and the unique desert atmosphere. Headliners include Satori and a solo set from Shkoon. In addition to the electrifying performances, highlights include the Groove fashion and art bazaar, rejuvenating holistic activities, and a tempting selection of food vendors to keep you fueled. Over 21s only.
Tickets start at Dhs275. @grooveonthegrass
80s & 90s Nostalgia
REWIND FEST DXB
Rewind Fest DXB returns to Bla Bla Dubai on February 22, after a sellout show in 2024. Headlined by Tony Hadley, the iconic Spandau Ballet frontman, the event will feature hits from his solo career and classic tracks. Joining him are Midge Ure, Tom Bailey of The Thompson Twins, Tunde (Lighthouse Family), The Christians, Katrina, Toyah, Tiffany, and Disco Inferno. Hosted by The Doctor from Doctor and the Medics, the festival promises an exciting day of time-warped live performances, DJs, food, and activities. Over 21s only.
Tickets start at Dhs345. @rewindfestdxb
Chilled Desert Vibes
Bonobo
Tony Hadley
Words: Aarti Saundalkar
own experiences as a journalist of Arab descent living and working in the West.
Daniel Handler (aka Lemony Snicket), author of A Series of Unfortunate Events
LITERARILY LIT
Celebrate the magic of the written word
Book lovers, the Emirates Literature Festival 2025 (more popularly known as Lit Fest) is back in full swing this February. The popular annual festival is a vibrant celebration of the written word, and is packed with fascinating author talks, engaging workshops, and loads of literary fun.
The festival will run until February 3, 2025, during which time authors from across the globe come together for piles of bibliophile magic. Fans can get lost in the wonder of world-building, poetic verse and stirring stories at the festival’s home, Intercontinental Dubai Festival City.
WHO’S HERE FOR LITFEST 2025?
Plenty of big names. Every year, the Emirates Literature Festival attracts some noteworthy literary stars. You’ll get the opportunity to hear these semantic-smiths discuss their ideas alone, or going head-tobespectacled-head with other authors at panel sessions. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to secure yourself a meet and greet, book signing or surreptitious selfie.
Here are some of the biggest authors to see
Megan Hess, author of Fashion in Colour
Megan Hass has not only penned 22 books, but she is also behind the wonderful and eye-catching illustrations on the pages. The
fashion illustrator will be talking on stage about her book Fashion in Colour sharing the surprising influence that hues have had in shaping the history of Vogue
Abraham Verghese, author of The Covenant of Water
One of the very many renowned authors at the festival is Abraham Verghese. His latest page-turner, The Covenant of Water tells the story of three generations of a Malayali family living in south-west India. It was in The New York Times bestseller list for 37 weeks. He will be on stage giving a history lesson to his fans alongside author and researcher, Pip Williams.
Hala Gorani, author of But You
Don’t Look Arab
Former CNN anchor Hala
Gorani takes to the stage to discuss her book, which explores the complexities of identity, race, and belonging. It follows her
Literature
Lemony Snicket will take to the stage for a rare in-person event sure to delight audience members of all ages.
Jeff Kinney, author of Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Number one international bestselling author, Jeff Kinney will be introducing Hot Mess, book 19 of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. Children above the age of six can join him on stage for plenty of mischief and laughter.
Helen Farmer, author of My Family’s Secret Superpowers
Helen Farmer, local broadcaster and a dear friend of What’s On will be at the Lit Fest to launch her new book which, in turn will help you discover your own superpower and enable you to feel stronger and more confident.
BEYOND THE STAGE
Need a break from the information overload?
SHOP: Purchase books to take home and get signed. Lit Fest has teamed up with Magrudy’s offering compelling reads at an attractive discount.
WORKSHOPS: Attend one of the many workshops which span creative writing, editing, identifying your writer’s voice and crafting the character of your own story. Bookings are a must via litfesttickets.emirateslitfest.com
PAUSE AND READ: Can’t wait to get home to read your newest purchase? Head to Festival Bay, pick a spot on the grass and dive straight into a new world of written words.
and other locations in Dubai, until Feb 3, 2025. @EmiratesLitFest
Emirates
Festival 2025, InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Words: Aarti Saundalkar
UNMISSABLE GIGS
Dubai’s February soundtrack
February looks to be an electrifying month packed with a lineup of live gigs and performances across genres. Get your calendar out and your hands in the air.
[FEB 6]
The Corrs
As part of their Talk on Corners tour – the Irish band is stopping by Coca-Cola Arena for one night only on February 6. Since their debut single back in 1995, almost thirty years ago, the four-piece pop outfit have sold an impressive 40 million albums. You might remember them from such velvety-vocal tracks as Breathless, Runaway, and What Can I Do? Tickets start from Dhs195.
Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, tickets start from Dhs195. @cocacolaarena
[FEB 7]
BLOND:ISH
Globally acclaimed BLOND:ISH is bringing her genre-defying sound and magnetic presence to Dubai’s pool and private beach club, Playa Pacha Pool and Beach Club at FIVE LUXE. The Canadian music producer and DJ is here to headline limited series music festival, ICONS celebrating the biggest tech-house and electronic music legends. Ready to experience her Happy Happy World? Nab your tickets now for Dhs250, which includes a drink, or get a VIP table for six for Dhs9,000.
Playa Pacha Pool and Beach Club, FIVE LUXE, tickets start from Dhs250. @playapachadubai
[FEB 8]
Nick Carter
Yes, the Nick Carter from Backstreet Boys. The crooner is performing in Dubai solo at Bla Bla Dubai serenading the crowds on his ‘Who Am I’ tour with his most iconic hits. The epic night takes place at The Tent where Carter will be bringing his world-famous energy up close and personal. Ticket prices are Dhs595 per person.
Bla Bla Dubai, The Beach JBR, tickets start from Dhs595. @blabladubai
[FEB 13]
Dizzee Rascal
Fix up, look sharp! UK grime pioneer, Dizzee Rascal is returning to Dubai’s P7 Arena in Media One Hotel for one night only on February 13 as part of his We Want Bass tour. The British rapper will perform a selection of his top hits including Dance Wiv Me, Bonkers, Holiday, and Just a Rascal. Tickets start from Dhs195.
P7 Arena, tickets start from Dhs195. @p7arenadxb
[FEB 9]
Rivermaya
Filipino rock band Rivermaya is one of the most influential rock bands of the Philippines and you can listen to their hit tunes when they perform at Coca-Cola Arena this month. Known for their broad brushstrokes musical style, the night promises to be full of rock ‘n’ roll, with some nostalgia thrown in. Ticket prices are Dhs199 per person.
Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, tickets start from Dhs199. @cocacolaarena
[FEB 23]
Gipsy King Tonino Baliardo
[FEB 15]
Tiësto
Catch Grammy Award-winning DJ Tiësto for one electrifying night on February 15 at the Coca-Cola Arena. Dubbed ‘the Godfather of EDM’, Tiësto is the producer behind hits such as The Business, Jackie Chan and Don’t Be Shy. If you are part of the 11 billion streams he has enjoyed worldwide, now is the chance to see him work his music magic in person. Tickets are already on sale and start from Dhs199.
Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, tickets start from Dhs199. @cocacolaarena
A special configuration of the Grammy-winning Gipsy Kings returns to Dubai Opera for a performance this February. The kings of Catalan rumba are famed for their unique blend of traditional flamenco, Western pop and Latin rhythms. The Spanish musical group will be joined by Tonino Baliardo – founder and leader, the man who composed Bamboleo and Djobi Djoba – some of the band’s greatest hits.
Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, tickets start from Dhs295. @dubaiopera
Words: Aarti Saundalkar
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT:
Dima Ayad
The epitome of “if you want something done right, do it yourself”
It was a leap of faith that began nearly 15 years ago. Dima Ayad, once the Head of Marketing for Food and Beverage at a Dubai hotel, has now become a household name in the world of fashion. Today, anyone with even a passing interest in fashion knows her brand.
We met Dima at the newly opened Mama Shelter Dubai, sipping coffee and enjoying bites. Standing out in a stunning red jacket, the award-winning Dubaibased Lebanese designer shares her story. She tells us she began her fashion label journey in 2011, describing it as “a casual start”. After being unable to find clothes that fit or suited her body type, Dima decided to start designing dresses for herself and her family. And it wasn’t long before people asked her where they could find her pieces.
“My mother is my fashion icon. She was one of the most iconic women in fashion that I know. She was a fashionista. I grew up in her wardrobe. I saw a different side to fashion, than what the regular eye would see. So, every time I make a collection, I would think, ‘Oh, what would she say....’.
Dima’s approach to design is rooted in practicality and longevity. She creates timeless pieces that women can wear for years. Her designs aren’t just sustainable; they’re functional, allowing women to remain stylish with a limited wardrobe. This focus on functional, enduring fashion is what sets her brand apart.
The idea of launching her own fashion line, however, was met with doubt. She questioned whether she truly belonged in the fashion conversation and whether she would ever have a seat at the table. But rather than accepting these doubts, Dima boldly asked, “Why can’t I have a seat at the table?”
That moment sparked a fierce determination to challenge traditional beauty standards. She was driven to create something that would cater to women of all shapes and sizes. “Everybody’s body is a personal story,” Dima explains, adding, “Nobody is allowed to judge you, no store is allowed to judge you for how you look.”
“The fact that fashion is so one-dimensional is bizarre,” she notes. “There’s a missed opportunity for stores to cater to all body types. Fashion shouldn’t punish people for being a certain size. It’s not the store’s job to dictate what size you should be.”
Dima tells us ‘I was completely fearless, because I had no idea what I was in for. I had no idea how I was going to do this. I used my own handwriting for the [brand’s] logo...’
Fast-forward to today, the name Dima Ayad hangs across some of the most prestigious fashion stores in the country (and around the world) including Harvey Nichols Dubai and Bloomingdales Dubai.
Her fashion icon, the woman who helped power Dima’s distinct blend of Middle Eastern influence and contemporary modest style, is none other than her mother.
“WHO GIVES FASHION THE RIGHT TO DECIDE WHAT SIZE YOU SHOULD BE?”
Her inspiration for the stunning designs come from the feminine spirit. ‘Women inspire me with what they do, the strength they possess, the way they can multitask, how they think, how they define themselves, and just the stirring power and beauty of regular women in everyday life.”
Travel, too, is a major source of creative energy for Dima. “Travel makes me crazy,” she says with a smile. “Travel makes me happy. It helps me see things differently. It exposes me to so many different things that are trendy.”
However, she notes that Dubai is where she draws much of her strength. “I’ve lived here for 42 years,” she says, having moved from Beirut when she was just two years old. “Dubai doesn’t let me take a step back. It always pushes me to move forward.” The city’s relentless energy and commitment to growth have deeply influenced Dima’s personal and professional journey. “I’m so grateful for this city because it allows me to always take a step forward,” she says.
Dima is currently preparing for her runway show at Dubai Fashion Week this month. An event that fills her with excitement and nerves. “I have butterflies,” she admits. “It’s a lot of work to produce a collection, but that’s what makes it so exciting”.
Looking to the future, Dima remains passionate about her mission to create fashion that is inclusive, timeless, and empowering. Her brand will continue to expand, including the opening of a showroom in D3, (where she also runs her other venture, DAC Communications, a Dubai-based consultancy). It just solidifies her commitment to making sure every woman feels seen, heard, and celebrated through the clothes she wears. You can stay up to date with the fashion guru and her collection on @dimayad
DISCOVER YOUR INNER SERENITY
Step into Serenity - The Art of Well Being, where Portugal’s healing traditions inspire a luxurious retreat. Unwind in our Thermal Oasis, complete with a sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi, and let tranquility wash over you.
Treat yourself to a Ladies’ Day exclusive, featuring spa treatments, poolside relaxation, and a nourishing gourmet lunch. Reconnect with your inner peace and feel refreshed, inside and out.
WELLBEING // TRIED & TESTED
Words: Lana Du
FTried & tested: Ré
A new kind of sanctuary…
rom the moment I stepped into Ré, I felt something shift. The pace of the world outside seemed to fall away, replaced by a quiet rhythm that instantly felt restorative. This isn’t your typical wellness club; it’s an art gallery for the soul, a harmonious blend of aesthetics and purpose.
Located in One Central, Ré feels like a space created to honour both the art and science of wellness. The earthy tones, soft lighting, and curated art pieces aren’t just there to catch the eye – it feels as though every detail has been carefully thought through to evoke calm, welcome, and a sense of being fully present.
More than wellness
At Ré, wellness is holistic. It’s not just about what you do but how you feel while doing it. Whether it’s the refreshing plunge of the rainforestinspired ice baths, the soothing warmth of the infrared sauna, or the precise guidance of a one-on-one trainer, each offering is crafted with care and intent. This makes Ré feel like a true lifestyle upgrade.
Beyond the physical
Ré’s approach extends far beyond the physical. Their functional diagnostic nutrition programme delves into gut health, hormonal balance, and long-term well-being. It’s not about quick fixes but about understanding your body’s unique needs and creating tailored solutions that truly work for you.
When it comes to mental health, Ré offers thoughtfully designed meditation, yoga, and
sound healing classes. For those seeking an even more personalised experience, private one-on-one sessions are also available, offering a deeply bespoke approach to mindfulness.
Wellness, your way
Ré also understands that wellness should be personal. Whether you’re looking for a one-off experience like an ice bath or meditation session, a package of classes, or a full membership, there’s something for every kind of wellness journey.
A space that feels like art
Ré’s design is as much a part of the experience as its services. The club feels like stepping into a curated gallery, where every corner is designed to soothe, striking the perfect balance between inspiration and simplicity. The art isn’t just on the walls—it’s in the way the space makes you feel.
Ré, One Central, The Offices 5, Dubai. @reonecentral
LOVE ALL
February marks a special time at Dubai’s Aviation Club. The complex, encompassing the illustrious Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, Irish Village, Century Village and Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, comes alive for the annual sporting and entertainment extravaganza that is the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. The tournament traditionally kicks off in mid February with the women’s tournament, followed by a week of men’s tennis action. It is a longawaited, much-celebrated fortnight of sporting action that’s hosted, and crowned some of the biggest champions in tennis history, including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams, and many others. With main card action taking place chiefly at the 5,000-seat centre court, several side courts also host singles and doubles main draw games and qualies. Throughout the week, there are player appearances, day sessions that lapse into the evening through sunset as a choir of chirping birds come alive in the foliage overlooking the courts, and big-ticket 7pm sessions that sell out in minutes.
What’s On?
This year marks an important landmark as the tournament celebrates the 25th anniversary of the WTA championships, and with the top 10 women’s players already confirmed, it’s set to be an absolute cracker.
The co ee pot (WTA) and sailboat (ATP) Dubai trophies, in addition to being a coveted title for many top players, also carry precious ranking points right after the players complete the first Grand Slam, Down Under. While the men’s winner walks away with 500 points, the women’s champ will fly out of Dubai with 1,000 points to her name, helping greatly in her ascent to the top of the ranking charts.
Dubai is also one of the few tournaments to host both the WTA and ATP events at the same time, proving a precious
preparation window before players make their way to North America for the spring hardcourt swing.
Who’s coming to town?
It’s been confirmed that the Dubai event will feature the top 10 players in the world – top-ranked women’s tennis player, Aryna Sabalenka will lead a galaxy of stars that will also include Polish superstar and fivetime grand slam champion, Iga Swiatek, as well as defending champion Jasmine Paolini from Italy.
Other players that will take to the baseline in Dubai will include 2023 champion Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic, as well as World No. 5 and 2024 Olympic gold medalist Qinwen Zheng of China, plus top talent including 2018 Dubai finalist Daria Kasatkina and Jessica Pegula of the United States.
Stay tuned to whatson.ae for all the updates in the lead-up to the tournament, and for all the exciting announcements coming your way regarding the men’s week.
Tickets sell out fast for this longcherished tennis spectacle, and you’ll want to grab yours now.
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, February 16 to March 1, 2025, from Dhs55. dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com
Caroline Garcia
Ugo Humbert
Iga Swiatek
Andy Murray
Anna Kalinskaya
Jasmine Paolini
Daniil Medvedev
CULTURE
// SKATEBOARDING
Words: Miles Buckeridge
BOARD MEETING
The UAE’s best skate parks
Skateboarding was born from the idle minds of Californian surfers in the 1950s, frustrated that their onboard time was limited to liquid surfaces. Since then it has been adopted by counterculture movements, become the perennial scourge of mall cops, spawned a franchise of best-selling videogames, and watched the bar chart of its popularity wax and wane in a shape not too dissimilar to one of its beloved half-pipes. But to its followers,
it’s not just a hobby, transportation method or fad, it’s so much more important than that... Skateboarding is life.
The UAE is a land of abundance for the gnarly wood-pusher tribe, with its year-round sunshine and jolly ollie-packed park collection. So to help us navigate the country’s ensemble of bowls, verts, grinds and gaps – we’ve consulted seven-year-old skating expert, and member of the What’s On Jrs team, Maverick Buckeridge.
Circuit X, Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi
Hudayriat Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most impressive alfresco adventure hubs and amongst its many assorted calorie culling attractions is the Circuit X skate park. Plank-jockeys can drop in on three separate bowls of varying difficulty level, practise lip tricks on ledges, grind rails, smash quarter pipes, and cruise through a simulated urban skate section. It might not be the most fertile concrete for nailing those 1080s, but you can fakie till you makie it or the wheels just come off. Board and equipment rental is available on request, and if you fancy a nice adrenaline-syphoning amble afterwards, check out the island’s free heritage walk.
Maverick’s skate rating: 3.5
Hudayriat, from Dhs40, Mon to Thu 2pm to 10pm Fri 2pm to 11pm, Sat and Sun 9am to 11pm. @circuitx_hudayriyat
DAMAC Hills Skate Park, Dubai
A residential community skate park that really feels organic. It’s striped with officially commissioned graffiti and is arranged to provide a seamless flow of mini-wheeled traffic. It also has the advantage of being surrounded by serene greens and a multi-sport court with a bouldering/climbing wall. In the skate park you’ll find an easy gradient down into the main mix of action, which makes it a kind course for beginners.
Maverick’s skate rating: 4.74
DAMAC Hills, free, 7am to 10pm daily. @damachillscommunity
Adventure Zone, Sheikha Fatima Park, Abu Dhabi
Found just a hop, skip and a kickflip from Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Beach, in the heart of the city centre, this recently revamped and newly skate-ramped leisure treasure is a popular pull for the capital’s boarders. Within its 46,000 sqm expanse, you’ll find The Adventure Zone – the location of the skate park. The sprawling sick trickdrome is positively bursting with ramps, rails and low-rise verts. Designed to provide an enjoyable experience for all skill levels, it’s a great example of community-led skating. When you’re done rolling, you’ll find pop-up alfresco cinemas, some great f&b (check out mamafri), a Splash Pad and shaded walkways.
Maverick’s skate rating: 3.75 Al Bateen, free, 10am to 10pm daily. @sheikhafatimapark
Circuit X
Aljada Skate Park, Sharjah
This Northern Emirates worldie has really set the bar for top, tournamenttier builds in the UAE, having hosted the 2022 World Championships. Designed by pros for pros (as well as the more recently board-enamoured) Aljada is the stuff of pipe dreams. The trick bowl is so deep, I’m convinced it must have a canyon somewhere in its lineage, and the rad rail trail series sets up the possibility of linked grind Nirvana.
Maverick’s skate rating: 4.75
Aljada, Sharjah, free. @aljadaskatepark
The Block, D3, Dubai
Of course there’d be a skate park in D3 – Dubai’s epicentre of edge. Found in between The Block’s basketball courts, raw concrete facades, and artfully upended shipping containers – the skate jungle packs a lot of punch into its relatively compact size. The central bowl is perfect for sharpening pump riding skills and skaters looking to get in some grind practice have an abundance of linked edges and rails to polish the underside of their board with. For a cheeky, freaky pink flamingo bonus – if you follow the cycle track, it’s just a short cruise before you get to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary (also free to enter).
This is the biggest skate park in the UAE and delivers an equally vast range of skatebased challenges. It’s a paid attraction (with day passes available from Dhs75) but the cost of admission also gets you access to the site’s parkour course. The crowning glory of the skate zone is the Pro Bowl –offering a mettle-testing 3.2m vert. And if that just sounds like a recipe for knee-pad impact, there is a Jr option that’s more forgiving on hard bails and trick fails. Each element of the park has been cleverly designed to connect, meaning you get less time off-board and more opportunity to practise those competition lines. Annual memberships are available and you can book lessons from the experts (from Dhs130).
Maverick’s skate rating: 4 Kite Beach, Dhs75, Sun to Fri 2pm to 9.30pm, Sat 8am to 9.30pm. @xdubaipark
The Block
The Block
XPark
Masaar, Sharjah
This hidden skate gem is held inside the blissfully verdant, forest frond embrace of Masaar Park. Next door to the adventure playground, Masaar skatepark’s central feature is a sunken bowl with a contoured ride space. But if you’re the type of board botherer that hates being hemmed in, that sees the world as a sort of open-source Tony Hawks Pro Skater run–through, the miles of shaded paved pathways will make you feel like you’ve stumbled on a cheat code. Maverick’s skate rating: 4.5 Masaar, Sharjah, free. @masaarliving
Town Square Skate Park, Dubai
This Dubai community park has two big quarter pipes with a high-rise double ramp in the middle, that make it perfect for the more seasoned skate aficionado. And for the less experienced truckand-rollers, there’s a kick-push-friendly, fully contained bowl. Because it’s part of a bustling, growing community – it can get busy at peak times, particularly with the junior scooter swarms, so getting there early (or late) is probably your best shot at a no-collide ride.
Maverick’s skate rating: 4.25 Town Square, free, 11am to 10pm daily. @townsquaredxb
BUCKERIDGE
What’s your biggest fear as a skater bro?
Rocks.
What do you think of scooters in skate parks? They’re fine, but they can be annoying. They can’t really do tricks and the little kids don’t look where they’re going. What’s your favourite skate park in the UAE?
DAMAC Hills, it’s so cool. Just watch out for the scooter kids. What’s your favourite trick? Kickflip and pop-shove-it [he confesses he can’t do this one yet]. Ollies are hard when you start, but you have to practice, I watch a lot of YouTube tutorials.
Which UAE landmark would you most like to film a skate video on?
Doing it in a public place could be dangerous, but... The Museum of the Future, that would be fire, bro.
Masaar
Attractions
Activities
Dining
Health
Education
Entertainment
Real
Hotels
Shopping
The
DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS
Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin
HOTEL SPOTLIGHT:
Six Middle East
HOTEL OPENINGS WORTH TRAVELLING FOR THIS YEAR
From a safari-style camp in Sharjah to a hedonistic hotspot in Muscat and wellness resorts in Saudi Arabia, these are the hotels to plan trips around in 2025
AMAALA, Saudi Arabia: Six Senses Triple Bay
Six Senses’ otherworldly hotels are already lust-inducing resorts found regionally in Oman’s secluded Zighy Bay and in the desert dunes of The Red Sea. And this year the brand’s Middle Eastern footprint will further expand with the debut of Six Senses Triple Bay, one of six resorts on-track to welcome visitors to AMAALA, a wellnessdriven luxury destination on the Kingdom’s Red Sea Coast. To the north, the village-like resort opens onto the sweeping beaches of Hajaz Cove, featuring a beach restaurant and family pool; to the south, natural rock pools and a mangrove boardwalk leads to the cove spa. At the centre is the dramatic Mesa, featuring spectacular overhangs and caves. A coffee roastery, bakery, water bar and shisha tea house fuse Six Senses’ key pillars with regional influences, and guests are encouraged to immerse in the local, natural and sustainable throughout their stay.
sixsenses.com
Dubai, UAE: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
The final piece of the oceanic-inspired trilogy on the Jumeirah beachfront is Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Positioned as a new benchmark for luxury stays in Dubai, the dazzling beachfront resort is now accepting reservations from March 14. Those checking-in to the superyacht-inspired hotel can look forward to 10 categories of gorgeously contemporary guest rooms with sweeping vistas, stretches of golden sand lined with private cabanas, and a three-floor Talise spa, complete with a 20-metre lap pool and dedicated ladies-only floor. It’s on the culinary front where this resort really stands out, though, with almost a dozen restaurant and bars to look forward to, like steakhouse The Cullinan, glamourous Mediterranian restaurant KIRA, and an ultraluxe beach club called Kinugawa. jumeirah.com
Six Senses Triple Bay
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
Red Sea, Saudi Arabia: Miraval
One of 11 resorts set to take shape on Shura Island, the main hub of The Red Sea gigaproject in Saudi Arabia, is a US-born wellness brand set to do things differently. Miraval Red Sea will be the brand’s first resort outside of America, and promises to be an 180-room sanctuary that unrolls along three million square feet. The resort will draw inspiration from the natural beauty and topography of the destination: think crystalline waters, sugary sands, vast golden desert, and craggy mountain peaks. The star attraction will be the Life in Balance Spa, complete with 39 treatment rooms, walking trails and workshop spaces, promising to promote ‘mindfulness, relaxation, and introspection’. Elsewhere, unique rituals and therapies enriched with Middle Eastern flair promise to put the property on the map as a soughtafter wellness retreat. It’s slated to open in autumn.
miravalresorts.com
Sharjah, UAE: LUX* Al Bridi
Doha, Qatar: Corinthia Gewan Island
One of two LUX* Resorts arriving in Sharjah this year, LUX* Al Bridi is your invitation to take a walk on the wild side. The 35-key resort adjacent to Sharjah Safari will feature one-, two- and threebedroom tented villas that gaze over the native wildlife. The aesthetic mirrors the tented lodges you’ll find on your Pinterest board – think natural, earthy tones and endless sandstone shades, and the experiences to boot promise an immersion into the array of wildlife found in Al Dahid. Sun-soaked days can be spent dipping in your private pool, getting pampered at the LUXE ME Spa, or dining in the wild – that is when you’re not on safari, keeping an eye out for creatures big and small that roam around.
luxresorts.com
Well-versed in the creation of grand dame hotels thanks to their properties in London, Malta and Budapest, Corinthia will debut in the Middle East with the Corinthia Gewan Island this year. Poised to become a new architectural marvel on Doha’s leisure scene, the 100-room Corinthia Gewan Island spans 13,000 square metres and also incorporates a yacht club, Championship golf course and a beach club, all of which are also part of the Corinthia portfolio. Promising sophistication and relaxation in equal measure, star attractions alongside the sumptuous guest rooms will be a pampering spa, three speciality restaurants, and a grand banquet hall with capacity for 1,000. corinthia.com
Muscat, Oman: Nikki Beach Resort
Nikki Beach’s roots might be in hedonistic beach clubs – and you’ll still find those dotted around the globe – but its ever-expanding resorts are as much about wellness and meaningful travel experiences as they are celebrations of life. Which is why the blissful shores of Oman make total sense for a Nikki Beach Resort & Spa, set to land in late 2025 on the shores of Yiti Bay. The resort will feature 140 rooms and suites, plus 30 sumptuous private pool villas. It boasts everything you know and love about Nikki Beach and more: music, dining, fashion, art, entertainment, film, three swimming pools, beach club, a marina and yacht club. Guests can swim up to the wet bar at the pool, bliss out at the world-renowned beach club, indulge in the award-winning spa, and dine at three of the brand’s signature restaurants. There’s the farm-to-table bistro, Café Nikki; toes-inthe-sand restaurant Escape; and unique lobby bar, Soul Lounge. nikkibeach.com
Miraval
Corinthia Gewan Island
LUX* Al Bridi
Nikki Beach Resort
// EDINBURGH
Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin
A CAPITAL WEEKEND IN Edinburgh
For a collision of culture, history and cuisine, few cities do it better than Edinburgh. With its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, lush green gardens and dynamic exports – here’s how to plan a weekend in one of the world’s greatest cities
Budget: Hotel Indigo
WHERE TO STAY
Spread across five townhouses in the city centre, Hotel Indigo is a boutique hotel that puts friendly service and convenient comfort centre stage. Inspired by the city’s creative heart, the cosy tavern-style bar laced with local tartans, and theatre signs dotted throughout the reception area give lashings of personality to communal spaces. Guest bedrooms have all the basic needs, and beds are comfortable so you wake up feeling ready for a day of exploring the city’s best bits. Breakfast, in a light and bright breakfast room, is a mix of continental buffet and a la carte hot dishes, and the staple Edinburgh breakfast is a full plate of fuel for touristing the day away.
Rates from Dhs490. @hotelindigoedinburgh
Blowout: The Balmoral
Mid-range: W Edinburgh
A splashy recent addition to the hotel scene in Edinburgh is W Edinburgh, which opened just over a year ago as part of the landmark St James Quarter, a development of restaurants, retail and entertainment. The brand’s vibrant touches are everywhere, from it’s 11th floor W Lounge, a glitzy spot for coffees by day and cocktails by night, to the pampering Away Spa, inspired by the elements. Drinks with a view are best enjoyed on the rooftop W Deck (weather permitting), and dining gets a fun-dining upgrade in the form of Sushisamba, a haute spot for a la carte breakfasts for in-house guests, then dining on the brand’s signature Peruvian, Brazilian and Japanese fusion flavours from lunch ‘til late. Check-in comes with a glass of Champagne to really make you feel at home, and guest rooms in W’s typically moody dark shades are split between three buildings, and many feature balconies that look out over the city below.
Rates from Dhs750. @wedinburgh
A legendary landmark sitting pretty at 1 Princes Street, The Balmoral is as much Edinburgh as Edinburgh is The Balmoral. Everything here is quintessentially Scottish: sumptuous suites are inspired by the local landscapes, Brasserie Prince’s French fare is packed with Scottish produce, and Bar Prince’s extensive cocktail list puts local sips centre stage. Guest experiences available to book through the concierge are also all about proudly showcasing the country’s best bits, and cover everything from whisky tastings with renowned house, The Macallan; to a session with the scent butler, in partnership with Scotland’s first fragrance house, Kingdom Scotland. Rates from Dhs1,255. @thebalmoral
Visit this: Edinburgh Castle
This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits at the top of most Edinburgh travel guides – and for good reason. A former military fortress, royal residence, and prison, there are several rooms open to the public that provide a window into its fascinating history, as well as tea rooms where you can enjoy a quintessential British afternoon tea. Take your time and curate your own tour guided by their online routes, or book the official tour where a knowledgeable guide will share stories from the most besieged place in Britain.
From Dhs90. edinburghcastle.scot
Eat here: Bonnie and Wild
If you’re only in Edinburgh for a short trip, Bonnie and Wild invites you to discover some of Scotland’s finest foodie talents all under one roof. Part of the brilliant dining and shopping destination St James Quarter, what it might not lack in quintessential architecture, this food hall makes up for in flavour, with everything from fresh Scottish seafood at Creal Caught, to one of the UK’s best burgers found at El Perro Negro. bonnieandwildmarket.com
Book this: Edinburgh Gin Distillery
In the heart of the city’s Old Town, you can learn all about one of its most popular exports with a tour and tasting of the Edinburgh Gin Arches. You’ll get a guided tour of the boutique production facility, see a demonstration of the copper stills, then be rewarded with a wee dram of the good stuff in one of the tasting rooms. Dhs130. edinburghgin.com
Date night here: The Dome
One of Edinburgh’s most famous foodie landmarks, fine dining is best enjoyed at The Grill Room, one of four dining experiences at The Dome. With its Corinthian columns, glass dome ceiling and marble bars, it oozes gothic grandeur. On the menu, expect seasonal Scottish fare. @thedomeedinburgh
GETTING THERE
Drink here: Gleneagles Townhouse
The sleek city sister to the storied rural Perthshire icon, Gleneagles Townhouse is primarily a members club. But you don’t need to be a member to access many of its facilities (or even stay in one of its 33 rooms). For a taste of Gleneagles signature grandeur without paying full whack, drinks at The Spence are a must. A former bank, many of the framing features remain, and the ornate ceiling, wooden bar, and tiled floors are magnificent. gleneagles.com/townhouse
April 5 to 20:
Edinburgh Science Festival
Get your Geek on at the world’s first science and tech festival, now in its 36th year. The 2025 theme is ‘Spaceship Earth’ and explores the challenges of living on a planet with finite resources, and takes over some 30 venues across town.
August 1 to 25:
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Hundreds of performers and artists from around the world descend on the capital for three weeks, with the city providing a stage for dynamic and exciting talents from all corners of the globe.
November and December:
Edinburgh Winter Festival
Edinburgh’s now legendary Christmas is reason enough to make for the Scottish capital at the end of the year, with the city turning into a majestic winter-wonderland. Expect pop-up markets, fairground rides and the renowned Hogmanay NYE celebrations. 2025 dates are still TBC, but it usually begins in midNovember, and runs until the first weekend of January.
Emirates flies daily to Edinburgh, and Dubai to Edinburgh is the first route to be serviced by the airline’s stylish new Airbus A350. The first-of-its-kind plane is enhanced in every way – setting a new standard for Emirates in terms of stylish design, passenger comfort and service. Featuring a 1 – 2 – 1 layout in Business Class, 2 – 3 – 2 layout in Premium Economy, and a 3 – 3 – 3 layout in Economy, it’s a beautiful showcase of the future of flying. Guests can expect the best image quality on any aircraft with 4K touchscreens, extra-high ceilings, and faster Wi-Fi. Upgraded Business Class cabins feature lie-flat seats with individual minibars and wireless charging, while Premium Economy passengers are treated to more comfort in leather reclining seats, and dine on a menu similar to business class served on Royal Doulton chinaware. A return fare in February starts from Dhs3,270 for economy. emirates.com
Words: Dinesh Ramanathan
Escape to the Garden City at Telal Resort
Al Ain
In a world where dunes, pools, and shooting stars await…
What Abu Dhabi’s managed to build in the middle of the Arabian desert has dazzled us repeatedly. Whether it’s the various palatial properties out in Liwa, makeshift filming locations for box-office shattering productions, or a weeks-long festival that includes a car championship, amusement park attractions, a classic car show and a whole circus set-up, it speaks volumes of the vision and investment that’s gone into developing the vast desert space into a retreat that travellers, families and experiential enthusiasts can savour while they make memories for a lifetime.
This time, we explore Telal Resort Al Ain, out in the Garden City and just under 90 minutes away from the heart of the capital. Hit miles of E22 highway before you descend on this tranquil escape amid endless dunes of soft sand. When you visit in the middle of the UAE winter, night temps plunge to a chilly 11 degrees Celsius, so you’ll need to make the most of your
backyard firepit – more on that in just a second.
Check-in is scheduled for 4pm and check-out at 2pm so “visitors from out of town have enough time to get there”. But if you happen to arrive a little early, don’t fret – you can enjoy the various facilities including two swimming pools (including one overlooking the vast Remah desertscape), a very impressive gymnasium, and their in-house spa, Desertology. For those who are arriving energised and in pursuit of fun, adventurous activities, there’s plenty to enjoy, including guided camel and horse rides to a zipline attraction aptly named “Magic Flying Carpet”, as well as various time-tested activities such as darts and volleyball that will have you deserting your city-induced stresses in more ways than one.
Your villa itself is accessible via in-house shuttle, and once you’ve driven up, let its various brilliant desert-inspired touches across the furniture and décor sink in. Your backyard has a comfortable seating area where you can enjoy room-delivered meals as you gaze out into the desert, and an electric fire pit will keep you warm and toasty with the mere flip of a switch.
When you’re famished from taking laps in their gorgeous pool or just waking up with a massive appetite, in-house restaurant Desert Gate serves excellent a la carte options you’ll want to enjoy, with a wonderful breakfast selection. Their new desert eat, Katar, is also accessible via in-house shuttle, bringing you the authentic Arabian desert experience with traditional dishes and coffee, as well as majlis-style seating under the stars - all topped off with superb service. Keep in mind, however, that insuite breakfast is chargeable.
What’s On verdict: Drive out to this tented-haven whether it’s precious family time, a weekend of adventure or simply a peaceful break you seek.
Telal Resort Al Ain, Remah, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (0)3 702 0000, from Dhs1,500 in Feb. @telalresortalain.
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