The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 6 to 8 October
Bubbly breakfasts, bombastic brunches, captivating concerts and sensational sporting events are all taking place across Dubai and Abu Dhabi this weekend.
The first weekend in October is finally upon us and these are our top picks of the best places in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to visit this weekend.
Friday 6 October
Have lunch at The Guild
Dubai’s most-talked-about new opening now offers a brilliant business lunch. Expect two distinct menus at The Guild, ideal for those seeking a quick yet impressive escape within the heart of DIFC. Tuck into Foie Gras & Rabbit Confit Terrine or the classic Prawn Cocktail followed by Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Slow Roasted Beef Rump or Saffron Risotto. To satisfy your sweet cravings, delve into desserts like The Guild’s Campfire Cheesecake or Tiramisu. Available on weekdays, from 12pm to 3pm. AED 119 (a main course paired with either a starter or dessert) or AED 149 (a starter, a main course, and a dessert, accompanied by The Guild’s house-blended coffee).
GO: Visit www.theguilddubai.com for more information.
Sing along to T-Pain
T-Pain, whose real name is Faheem Rashad Najm, will headline the NBA Fan Appreciation Day at Etihad Arena on Friday, 6 October. The American singer, songwriter, and producer rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his distinctive use of Auto-Tune. He is best known for hits like Bartender. Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin’) and I’m Sprung, which dominated the charts and became anthems of a generation.
GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for tickets and more information.
Marvel at origami
Netsu, the acclaimed “theatre of fire” at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, has unveiled a captivating collaboration with origami artist and architect Charles Kaisin that weaves together culinary excellence and Japanese culture. Inspired by the legendary samurai Kamakura Gongorō Kagemasa, Kaisin’s Dubai debut is a mesmerising spectacle comprising more than 4,005 origami pieces gracefully suspended from the restaurant’s soaring ceiling. To celebrate this artwork, Netsu will present an origami-inspired menu paired with a selection of sake. Available daily until 31 October. AED 450 per person (four courses with sake pairing).
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Saturday 7 October
Have brunch on the Palm
Indulge in the Saturday Fork and Cork Brunch at Crescendo Restaurant inside the paradisal Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. Embark on a delicious voyage through an array of international favourites set in a vibrant yet laid-back ambience, perfect for friends and family. Saturdays, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 400 (soft beverages), AED 555 (sparkling), AED 950 (bubbly) and AED 195 (children aged five to 11 years).
GO: Visit https://mhg.to/zc63q for reservations and more information.
Visit amazing Amalfi without leaving Abu Dhabi
Transport yourself to the charming Amalfi coastline at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi’s new Italian gem. Indulge in a taste of la Dolce Vita and savour family-inspired Italian delights with a menu that reflects the essence of La Famiglia. At Amalfi, you can expect homegrown ingredients and Italian traditions, from classic antipasti to seafood and traditional pizza and pasta. Available daily, from 12pm to 11pm.
GO: Call 800 101 101 for reservations and more information.
Watch the NBA Abu Dhabi Games
After a successful run in Abu Dhabi last year, the National Basketball Association is returning to the capital once again. This year, the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves will come face to face to play two pre-season games at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island. The competing teams will be in the capital on Thursday, 5 October and Saturday, 7 October. Get ready to grab those tickets.
GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for more information.
Sunday 8 October
Luxuriate poolside
The sophisticated private beach cabana at DRIFT Beach Dubai offers privacy and refinement, an expansive private deck, a lush lawn, and a comfortable lounge area and discreet changing facilities. With a standard capacity accommodating up to 10 adults (expandable upon request), the cabana is the perfect venue for gatherings and grand celebrations. Available daily, from 9am to 8pm. AED 6,000 (Monday to Thursday) and AED 9,000 (Friday to Sunday).
GO: Email info@driftbeachdubai.com or call 04 315 2200 for reservations and more information.
See Dubai in full bloom
Walk into a blossoming euphoria of colour and elegance at Dubai Miracle Garden. Here, more than 50 million natural flowers are arranged into impressive displays, including horses, aeroplanes, elephants and more. The new season at this family-friendly attraction introduces a large waterwheel, floral tunnels, innovative 3D water and lighting installations and more blooms at the ‘Smurfs Mushroom Village’. Tickets are available via Platinumlist from AED 95 per person.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Tuck into a new tasting menu
Atrangi, overseen by the esteemed Chef Ritu Dalmia, invites guests to embark on a nostalgic voyage through India with its delightful tasting menu. Nestled in Jumeirah Al Qasr, this fine-dining establishment celebrates lesser-known Indian delicacies and the cosy feeling of home-cooked meals. When opting for this tasting menu, an initial conversation helps discern guests preferred flavours, textures, and tastes. The Chef then curates a bespoke experience, showcasing Atrangi’s exquisite dishes. Available daily, from 6pm to midnight. AED 440 (five courses) or AED 640 (seven courses).
GO: Visit www.sevenrooms.com for reservations and more information.
