The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 2 to 4 February

Nine top places to explore this weekend.

February is finally upon us, and whilst the impending Valentine’s Day onslaught is inevitable, we’re exploring the best new brunches, lunches, concerts and hotels this weekend.

Friday 2 February

Check into The Lana

The Lana, Dorchester Collection is officially open. Dubai’s newest hotel promotes luxury living across 225 guest rooms and suites inside the 30-storey block-shaped tower in Business Bay. Designers by Gilles et Boissier, the property combines traditional elements with contemporary touches inspired by the spirit of Dubai. Guest checking in to the luxury landmark can expect a selection of restaurants and bars, which include Bonbon Café by Angelo Musa, Jara by Martín Berasategui, Riviera by Jean Imbert and High Society cocktail bar. A swimming pool will be located on the hotel’s rooftop, while the Dior Spa will make its regional debut in April.

GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for more information.

Visit Hattem Mattar’s new culinary collab

Emirati-owned eatery Saddle have teamed up with Dubai’s pitmaster Hattem Mattar for a week-long culinary collaboration. The highlight of the menu, available only at Saddle’s Al Wasl location, is the Smoked Picanha Bun complemented by Saddle’s coffee-infused barbecue sauce. Tuck into the classic 18-hour smoked brisket, grilled lobster roll or the loaded fries. Available daily until 8 February, from 6pm.

GO: Visit https://saddle-dubai.squarespace.com for reservations and more information.

See the illuminations at Dhai Dubai

Dhai Dubai, an Emirati-led light art festival, has kicked off its 10-day spectacle at Expo City Dubai. The event promises a dazzling celebration of Emirati art and culture, showcased through captivating light installations, interactive experiences, talks, and workshops. One of the highlights of Dhai Dubai is the Sisters of the Desert projections on Al Wasl Plaza’s iconic dome, inspired by the late Emirati artist Dhabia Juma Lamlah. The dome becomes a canvas for a show that also features international artists Rene Kulitja and Dr Esther Mahlangu, symbolising cross-cultural connectivity.

GO: Visit www.dhaidubai.com for more information.

Saturday 3 February

Sing along with Sting

The legendary British singer, Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, is coming to the capital – aka Sting. The hitmaker will perform at the Saadiyat Nights concert series on 3 February. The show is expected to feature songs from his career, which spans five decades and includes Fields of Gold, Shape of My Heart, Roxanne, Englishman In New York, Every Breath You Take and Message in a Bottle. 

GO: Visit www.ticketmaster.ae for tickets and more information.

Score a bullseye

A world-first concept that combines social dining with gaming, Oche is a tech-driven, darts-focused venue that combines top-tier gastronomy with a state-of-the-art gaming experience. Forget the traditional chalkboard; the venue is equipped with cutting-edge technology, complete with numerous games and automatic scoring systems such as Killer, Shanghai, and 501. Dubai’s latest entertainment bar combines an interactive shared darts experience with exceptional food and drinks.

GO: Visit www.rmalhospitality.com for more information.

Check out some slow, fast food

Experience a culinary revolution at Alserkal Avenue at the Wandr food truck. Founded by Anki Ram, Wandr redefines fast-casual dining with a fresh approach that embraces the slow food movement. The menu presents tempting options like the Bali Baby Wrap, Fiesta Roll, and KPOP, each offering a vegan or vegetarian twist on traditional meat options. Wandr’s hallmark sourdough flatbreads are crafted daily with their unique sourdough culture, exemplifying the slow food principles of food that should be grown and bought locally while being environmentally conscious with zero food waste. 

GO: Follow @wandrwithus on Instagram for more information.

Sunday 4 February

Have brunch at WHITE Beach

WHITE Beach has launched a new brunch that combines Mediterranean flavours and unlimited beverages while live DJs and performers set the perfect soundtrack for the afternoon. For those choosing the dining-only experience, a seat awaits in the bohemian-inspired outdoor restaurant, while those seeking to elevate their experience can bask in the sun-kissed ambience of the beach by opting for the beach and pool package. The menu includes braised lamb Kleftiko, Greek salad, grilled octopus, spinach filo pie and zucchini fritters. Sundays from 1pm to 4pm. AED 365 (soft beverages), AED 495 (house beverages), AED 595 (Champagne) and AED 645 (house beverages, pool and beach access).

GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for reservations and more information.

Catch a match with a football legend

Witness the Premier League clash between Manchester United and West Ham in the company of Manchester United favourite Mikaël Silvestre at Barasti Beach. Mikaël will engage in an intimate Q&A, offering photo opportunities and a meet and greet session. As the live match kicks off, catch every thrilling moment on the big screen as the Reds take on the Hammers, both vying for coveted European spots. Sunday, 4 February from 5pm to 8pm. AED 375 (three-hour food and house beverage package).

GO: Follow @barastibeach on Instagram for more information.

Party at The Nice Guy

The FACT award winning restaurant in Emirates Towers has recently launched its Melodic Sundays. Here, guests can immerse themselves in a harmonious blend of culinary delights and musical vibes on The Nice Guy’s picturesque outdoor terrace, enhanced by an unlimited drinks package. This weekly event will feature guest DJs, a live saxophonist, and a drummer. Sundays, from 6pm to 11pm. AED 275 (unlimited beverages from 7pm to 9pm).

GO: Call 04 276 9888 for reservations and more information.