Dubai never runs short of weekend inspiration, and this week is no exception. From relaxed breakfasts and hands-on family activities to beach lunches, creative nights out and late dinner-and-drinks plans, there’s something to suit just about every mood. If you’re looking to fill your diary from July 17 to 19, here are 10 ideas worth considering.
Start the weekend with something creative or cosy
For something a little different on Friday night, swap the usual drinks for a sip-and-paint session at Vida Emirates Hills. Sip & Paint: Le Sōlienne – A Night of Expression combines guided painting with food, drinks and easygoing music, making it a simple choice for friends or anyone keen to try something new. No experience is needed – just turn up, pick up a brush and enjoy the evening.
Where: Vida Emirates Hills
When: Every Friday, 7pm to 9pm
Cost: Dhs275 with food and soft drinks, Dhs320 with food and house beverages
Contact: (04) 872 8888 @vidahotels
Breakfast fans can also make a morning of it at bkry’s latest location in Nad Al Sheba Mall. The Dubai favourite is serving its signature pastries, inventive croissants, breakfast eggs and speciality coffee in a more intimate setting, along with a selection of location-exclusive dishes that give this branch its own draw.
Where: bkry, Nad Al Sheba Mall
When: Daily, 8am to 10pm
Contact: @bkry.space
Pick up a drink, book a workout or plan lunch with friends
If you’re after a refreshing summer sip, Pret A Manger UAE has teamed up with HalaPop, the region’s first locally made prebiotic soda, to launch four new flavours in stores across the UAE. Ginger Lemon, Pomegranate Hibiscus, Strawberry Vanilla and Tangerine are all on offer, making for an easy add-on to lunch or a coffee stop.
Where: Pret A Manger locations across the UAE
When: From July 15 until the end of August
Contact: @pretuae
Those hoping to fit in a workout can book a Reformer Pilates class at ReFIVE in FIVE Palm Jumeirah. The small, instructor-led sessions focus on strength, flexibility and mobility and are suitable for all levels. You can also extend the visit with a stop at Detox Me Café for a matcha, protein shake or cold-pressed juice, or opt for the Sculpt, Melt & Restore package, which includes your class, a massage and access to the spa pool and steam room.
Where: ReFIVE, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah
When: Saturdays, 8am to 11am; Sundays, 9am to 6pm
Cost: From Dhs165 per class
Contact: @refivepilates
For a livelier afternoon, AMARU Dubai has introduced Amigos Brunch. Taking place every Saturday in Souk Madinat Jumeirah, it brings together Latin American flavours, sharing plates, live DJs and a high-energy atmosphere. Expect dishes such as ceviche, tacos, empanadas and the restaurant’s signature 36-hour Asado Negro, alongside house and premium drinks packages.
Where: AMARU Dubai, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
When: Every Saturday, 3pm to 7pm
Cost: Dhs350 (house package), Dhs499 (premium package)
Contact: (04) 227 5881, (050) 263 7060, @amaru.dubai
Family fun, sweet treats and a beach day
If you’re planning something for the children, Eataly at The Beach, JBR is hosting hands-on cooking workshops for young food lovers. Running on alternate Sundays from July to November, the sessions teach kids how to make pizzas or brownies while introducing them to a few Italian cooking skills along the way. Each child also takes home a chef hat, apron and a Polaroid with mum and dad.
Where: Eataly, The Beach, JBR
When: Alternate Sundays, July to November, 10am to 11am
Cost: Dhs130 per child
Contact: (04) 561 1185, @eatalyatthebeach
For a more relaxed plan, Gigi Rigolatto is a strong option for a beach or pool day. Sunbeds can be booked by the beach or pool, and weekdays come with a bonus for ladies: complimentary sunbed access with any food or drink order.
Where: Gigi Rigolatto, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
When: Daily, 10am until sunset
Cost: Beach from Dhs300; Pool from Dhs400
Contact: (04) 498 3900 @gigi_beach_dubai
If dessert is more your style, Cioccolatitaliani is launching Dubai’s first Bottomless Gelato Brunch. Running every Sunday until the end of August, it includes unlimited artisan gelato, flowing Italian chocolate, homemade pastries and a signature mini affogato, plus one hot or cold drink. There will also be cannoli, maritozzi and bignè on the table.
Where: Cioccolatitaliani, Dubai Festival City Mall
When: Every Sunday until the end of August, 12pm to 10pm (launches Sunday, July 19)
Cost: Dhs149 per adult, Dhs79 per child, Dhs399 for two adults and two children
Contact: @cioccolatitaliani.ae
Finish the weekend with dinner, drinks or a long lunch
For an evening that starts with dinner and ends feeling like a night out, ZEA Dubai’s new PAREA experience is built around the Mediterranean tradition of gathering over food. The concept combines sharing-style dishes with live percussionists, dancers and a resident DJ, with the energy building through the evening before the atmosphere shifts into a late-night celebration.
Where: ZEA Dubai, Emirates Financial Tower, DIFC
When: Every Thursday and Saturday, from 9pm (until 2am)
Cost: From Dhs260 per person
Contact: @zea.dubai
To round things off more leisurely, African Queen at J1 Beach is serving La Vie En Rosé on Sundays. The Mediterranean-inspired lunch comes with unlimited Provence rosé and live music, making it a fitting way to wind down the weekend with good food and sea views.
Where: African Queen, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
When: Sundays, 1pm to 5pm
Cost: From Dhs290
Contact: (04) 515 4600, @africanqueen_dubai