The FACT UAE weekend guide: 10 to 12 November
Al fresco dining, a stunning swimming pool and plenty of live music will ensure a fun-filled weekend across the UAE.
The second weekend in November is upon us, and with the arrival of al fresco dining season comes a whole host of things to look forward to. So start planning your weekend of dining, nightlife and entertainment – you can thank us later.
Friday 10 November
Swim in the sky at the BOSS X Aura Skypool takeover
Swim 200 meters in the sky at the FACT Award-winning AURA Skypool Lounge, situated on Palm Jumeriah. The world’s first and highest 360 infinity pool offers mesmerising views of Dubai’s skyline and a sky-high experience you don’t want to miss. Fashion brand BOSS has taken over the space for a three-month pop-up, filling the venue with everything from Boss embossed towels and chopstick holders to sunhats and wine glasses. Available daily until 31 December, from 10am to 7pm.
GO: Visit auraskypool.com for reservations and more information.
Dine for half price at the newly opened Éla Éla
Situated at Yas Marina, the newly opened Éla Éla is currently offering a 50% discount on all à la carte menu items. The Mediterranean menu features crispy calamari, flaky spanakopita, grilled octopus, roasted lamb shoulder with braised chickpeas, and Greek doughnuts for dessert. Inspired by the sunlit coasts of Crete and offering a stunning view of Yas Marina and the Arabian Gulf, Éla Éla is ideal for family gatherings amidst a welcoming atmosphere. Available daily until 23 November, from 5pm to midnight.
GO: Visit www.elaela.ae for reservations and more information.
Enjoy a taste of Italy
Nestled within the waterways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Trattoria restaurant will host a two-night culinary showcase with acclaimed Chef Ciro Sicignano this weekend. The four-course menu highlights Italian flavours and contemporary culinary techniques through dishes such as Crudo de Gamberi Rossi Arrostiti (raw red shrimp with cuttlefish lard), Gnocco d’Agnello (potato and lamb dumplings with smoked mozzarella) and Ricciola in croccante di nocciola (amberjack with hazelnuts, pomegranate, and Sorrento lemon). Available on 9 and 10 November, from 7pm to 10pm. AED 285 per person.
GO: Email restaurants@jumeirah.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 11 November
Bop along to K-pop
If you know your BTS from your BLACKPINK, then we have some exciting news. Hyperound K-Fest returns to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi this weekend. The festival features a packed lineup of K-pop stars, including Cherry Bullet, DPR Ian, Peakboy, Sunmi and XG. The boyband Enhypen will headline.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Visit a Caribbean carnival
The Butterfly Carnival is fluttering into Dubai, bringing together international and local artists, from singers to DJs. The line-up features more than 30 artists from around the world, including Artful Dodger and Heartless Crew. The line-up also features Liverpool’s electro musician Sosa, Yorkshire’s techno talent wAFF, and South Africa’s Ampiano artist Daliwonga. The Butterfly Carnival Festival spans five stages, and performances from acrobats, dancers, and drummers are expected. General admission ticket prices start at AED 219 and are available from Platinumlist.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
See Ronan Keating live in Dubai
If you love big ballads and boybands, prepare for some serious nostalgia. Ex-Boyzone member Ronan Keating will perform at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in Al Garhoud this weekend. In 1999, Ronan went solo and his hit songs include Life Is A Rollercoaster, The Way You Make Me Feel and When You Say Nothing At All. With the group, he sold more than 25 million records, and as a solo artist, he has sold more than 20 million records. Tickets to see Ronan Keating in Dubai are on sale now via Platinumlist and start from AED 198.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 12 November
Shop until you drop at Les Benjamins
Istanbul-based lifestyle brand Les Benjamins is known for its creative streetwear and has recently opened its second stand-alone retail space at Dubai’s City Walk. The 104-square-meter store offers a modern yet heritage-inspired aesthetic, introducing another innovative and progressive brand to the flourishing neighbourhood. Shop for t-shirts, tops, pants and more from the vibrant and progressive collection.
GO: Follow @lesbenjaminsdxb on Instagram for more information.
Have brunch at Bagatelle
Known and cherished for its legendary brunches in the heart of Manhattan, Bagatelle is thrilled to announce the arrival of its ‘NYC Brunch’ in Dubai. The evening affair pays homage to the city where it all began, offering a taste of the private parties that defined New York City in the 2000s. Revellers can expect an old-school R&B soundtrack from DJs Dane Carter and Lehash, a French-inspired menu, a touch of NYC Glamour and an infectious Manhattan vibe. Sundays, from 4pm to 7pm.
GO: Email dubai@bagatelle.com or call 04 354 5035 for reservations and more information.
Sip drinks at Perlage
Perlage in Abu Dhabi oozes old-school glamour. The décor feels like you’re stepping into a 1920s Hollywood star’s dressing room with its shades of red across its small round tables. The drink’s menu includes creative concoctions with playful names like the Born to Be Wild, which is a nod to the Steppenwolf rock song. Restaurateur Natasha Sideris has created the concept – she is behind Galaxy Bar in Dubai, which was recently featured on the World’s 50 Best Bars 2023.
GO: Follow @barperlageae on Instagram for more information.
