Will it be beverages, brunch or a trip to the beach this weekend?
Before the UAE empties out for the summer, we have compiled the best places to visit in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this weekend, from bombastic brunches to blissful beachfront retreats.
Friday 28 June
Experience FOMO Fridays
Whether you’re unwinding after a long week or celebrating the start of the weekend, FOMO Fridays at Smoki Moto is the perfect setting. As Dubai’s first fully licensed Korean steakhouse, Smoki Moto invites you to enjoy an evening of smoking sojus and Korean-inspired appetisers while indulging in expertly crafted signature cocktails. Both the terrace and indoor lounge offer stunning views of West Palm Beach. Available on Fridays for AED 120 per person (the offer includes three drinks and an appetiser).
GO: Visit www.smokimotodubai.com for reservations and more information.
Swim under the stars
Kyma Beach Dubai, the FACT award-winning Greek restaurant and beach club nestled along the shores of Palm West Beach, welcomes the summer with a series of enchanting night pool parties. Experience the thrill of a midnight swim in the infinity pool while gazing up at the starry sky. Whether you choose a lounge, sunbed, or private gazebo, you can embrace the beauty of the night with the stunning backdrop of The Palm. Guests can savour the flavours of Greece paired with crafted cocktails, making for a perfect evening. Available on Fridays and Saturdays from 7pm. Prices start from AED 200 per person.
GO: Email book@kymabeach.ae for reservations and more information.
Celebrate National Cebiche Day
La Mar by acclaimed Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio, invites visitors and residents on an exquisite journey celebrating the flavours of Peru’s beloved national dish, cebiche. Crafted by La Mar’s Chef de Cuisine Cesar Ulloa and his talented team, this exclusive menu features eight signature cebiches from La Mar restaurants globally and is only available until 29 June.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for reservation and more information.
Saturday 29 June
See D12, Obie Trice and Xzibit live in Dubai
They say that good things come in threes, and this is certainly the case for hip-hop fans in Dubai. Rap legends D12, Obie Trice, and Xzibit will perform at Coca-Cola Arena on Saturday, 29 June. The show forms part of their “3 Twenty Anniversary Tour,” which celebrates 20 years of their most iconic albums – “D12 World,” “Cheers,” and “Man Vs. Machine.” Expect to hear the hit track “Multiply” from. Xzibit, “My Band” from D12 and “Got Some Teeth” from Obie Trice.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for reservations and more information.
Beat the heat with an indoor picnic
Cool off this weekend with a delightful family picnic at the SkyDome inside Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. Relish a variety of tasty dishes, including seafood, gourmet, and international flavours, while enjoying live entertainment and fun activities for kids, all in the comfortable setting of the SkyDome. Available on Saturday, 29 June, from 12pm to 7pm. Entry is priced at AED 95 (fully redeemable on food and beverages).
GO: Email reservation.table@dusit.com or call 02 698 8137 for reservations and more information.
Enjoy a dinner show with a difference
Everyone enjoys a romantic comedy, but let’s be honest, they often set unrealistic expectations. Enter The Midtown Wedding at Paparazzi Tuscan restaurant in Paramount Hotel Midtown. This immersive theatre production puts you right in the middle of the action while you savour a menu filled with an array of mouthwatering dishes, enhancing your overall experience. Discover more here. Saturday 29 June from 12pm to 4pm. AED 299 per person.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for reservations and more information.
Sunday 30 June
Experience fun in the sun
One&Only Royal Mirage offers the ultimate daycation package this summer. Begin your day with a sumptuous gourmet breakfast, followed by access to the pristine pool and private beach, perfect for relaxation and recreation. The package also includes a wellness treatment at the FACT award-winning One&Only Spa, with options like a relaxing massage or a traditional hammam experience. Whether you seek to unwind, pamper yourself, or spend a day with friends or family, the ultimate daycation package provides a memorable escape from the everyday hustle and bustle without leaving Dubai.
GO: Visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com for reservations and more information.
Tuck into a traditional roast at The Guild
Experience a lavish Sunday lunch at The Guild in DIFC, where classic roast dinners come with flavorful trimmings. Indulge in starters like creamy Italian Burrata or Beef Carpaccio, followed by roast dinner options including beef striploin, corn-fed chicken, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, and more — paired with live entertainment and cocktails. Available on Sundays from 12pm to 4pm, AED 250 per person.
GO: Visit www.theguilddubai.com for more information.
Don’t be late
Late Eatery offers a modern dining experience in the heart of 77 Valley, the newest foodie destination in Al Khawaneej. The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from 1960s American diners, Moroccan clay art forms, and the playful colours of Spanish craftsmanship. In a similar fashion, the menu crafted by renowned chef Aadel Ouaoua features dishes from around the world, including Baby Beetroot Labneh, Robata Steak, and Truffle Flatbread. For a delicious blend of European flavours with Asian twists, look no further.
GO: Follow @late.eatery on Instagram for more information.