Travel becomes an exhilarating adventure when you can explore your favorite travel destinations without embarking on long flights. In the UAE, a multitude of luxurious venues cleverly captures the essence of international hotspots, providing the perfect escape without the need for a passport. Here are 8 places to experience your favorite travel destinations in the UAE this summer, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of global culture right at your doorstep.
Chicago, USA: The Butcher and Still, Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Hotel
The Butcher & Still in Abu Dhabi delivers a quintessential Chicago steakhouse experience, adorned with the elegant flair characteristic of the Four Seasons. As you step into this Prohibition-era venue, the ambiance immediately transports you to the roaring Twenties, complete with a vibrant soundtrack. The menu bursts with Windy City favorites, offering succulent dry-aged beef and over-the-top wedge salads. A highlight is The Hideaway, an exclusive underground dining area that feels like a scene from a gangster film. With its dim lighting and rich decor, the setting, combined with a classic Manhattan cocktail, creates a truly immersive dining vibe.
Lima, Peru: COYA Abu Dhabi
COYA Abu Dhabi is a dazzling testament to the convergence of Peruvian culinary brilliance and upscale hospitality. This vibrant venue encapsulates the soul of Latin America, complete with colorful decor and lively sounds. On the menu, one can find delightful ceviches, chargrilled meats, and an array of cocktails that expertly balance spice and flair, including the refreshing pisco sour. The atmosphere is alive with art, music, and an incredible bar scene, ensuring the experience feels akin to a chic Lima party—perfect for those yearning for a taste of South America.
Cape Town, South Africa: Flamingo Room by tashas
Flamingo Room exudes luxury and sophistication, located at Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai and The Galleria Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi. The decor, marked by oversized animal sculptures and plush furnishings, encapsulates African elegance with a twist. The menu artfully weaves global influences with South African favorites, featuring dishes like king crab tagliatelle and signature cocktails that impress at every turn. Don’t miss the Collective Africa concept store, where curated fashion and decor pieces promise to enrich your shopping experience.
New York, USA: Broadway Brasserie & Bar, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Step into Broadway Brasserie & Bar for a magnificent fusion of Manhattan’s theatrical flair with Middle Eastern lavishness. The venue impresses with its chic decor, inviting ambiance, and live performances that marvelous every dining occasion. Offering a menu that combines classic brasserie fare with an innovative twist, guests can indulge in dishes such as seared scallops and truffled macaroni. The bar serves cocktails infused with Broadway charm, completed with live entertainment that brings the energy of New York to Abu Dhabi.
Santorini, Greece: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
If you’re yearning for a Greek getaway, Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat offers a stunning alternative just outside the city. This adults-only haven features breathtaking white architecture and serene infinity pools that mimic the allure of the Aegean. Designed for ultimate relaxation, the property features rooms with direct beach access and Mediterranean fine dining options. Let time slow down as you indulge in spa treatments inspired by Greek wellness traditions, all while enjoying the picturesque Arabian Gulf sunsets.
Bangkok, Thailand: Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Hotel
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi embodies the essence of Thai culture, offering a luxurious retreat that brings tranquility and depth to your stay. The elegant lobby, filled with orchids and calming music, sets the tone for a relaxed visit. The accommodation showcases traditional Thai design, while the highlight is dining at Benjarong, a renowned Thai restaurant. The meticulously crafted dishes showcase authentic flavors, and the Namm Spa provides rejuvenating treatments rooted in Thai wellness. Here, there are no jet lag concerns—just a tranquil atmosphere filled with jasmine-scented good vibes.
Polynesia: Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts
Lapita at Dubai Parks and Resorts offers a captivating journey to Polynesia, attracting visitors with its stunning design and lush surroundings. Upon arrival, you are enveloped in the rich cultural motifs of the islands, from intricate wood carvings to natural materials that evoke a serene garden feel. The versatile restaurants here serve tantalizing dishes inspired by Polynesian flavors, with a focus on tropical ingredients. Whether you’re planning a wedding or a family gathering, Lapita guarantees an unforgettable experience in a unique setting.
Giza, Egypt: Wafi City, Dubai
Wafi City stands as a distinct symbol of Egyptian culture in Dubai, crowned by its iconic pyramid-shaped structure. The site offers a rich blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment, themed around ancient Egypt; think artisan boutiques and Egyptian-inspired restaurants. With its striking architecture, Wafi City attracts those seeking a taste of Giza’s grandeur right in the heart of Dubai. Indulge in culinary delights or unwind at the spa inspired by Egyptian practices—it’s a slice of history and culture that’s impossible to miss.
Provence, France: French Village, Riverland Dubai
Riverland Dubai’s French Village offers a picturesque slice of 16th-century Dijon, complete with cobbled pathways and charming alleyways. With its rustic architecture and vibrancy, this tucked-away haven introduces visitors to delightful cafes, boutiques, and even street performers, creating an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of provincial France. As evening sets in, the area buzzes with live entertainment and themed markets, providing a whimsical experience that’s decidedly French without the overhead of international travel.
Images: dubai-lifestyle.ae archive
With contributions from Laura Coughlin