Your UAE Weekend Guide: 16 to 18 June
Will it be brunch, the Burj or a sushi celebration this weekend?
The third weekend in June heralds the arrival of International Sushi Day, so grab your chopsticks and read on for our picks of the best things to do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Friday 16 June 2023
Step inside Burj Al Arab
Inside Burj Al Arab has taken luxury to new heights with its new Observation Lounge, located on the 25th Floor of the iconic hotel. Here, guests will be treated to vistas of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline, where they can uncover the untold tales of Burj Al Arab while indulging in a range of exclusive 24 Karat Gold Tour experiences. AED 399 per person (tour and a cappuccino adorned with 24 Karat gold).
GO: Visit www.insideburjalarab.com for tickets and more information.
Sip and swim
Experience a nocturnal swim at Wet Deck at Ginger Moon inside the W Dubai – Mina Seyahi. With its Boho, Tulum-inspired aesthetic and stunning pool deck, Ginger Moon provides the perfect setting for a moonlit swim with views of the sparkling marina skyline. Guests can savour the Moon Bites menu, featuring small plates such as calamari., crispy sushi, fried watermelon, and tuna nachos, complemented by Paloma cocktails and sangria pitchers. Fridays and Saturdays from 8pm. AED 245 per person.
GO: Visit www.w-dubai-mina-seyahi.com for reservations and more information.
Enjoy charming Chinese cuisine
Indulge in the Summer Club at Shang Palace inside Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi. Embark on a culinary journey as you savour authentic Chinese favourites meticulously curated by esteemed Chef Qiguo Su. Experience the special menu, designed to be shared with your loved ones and elevate the dining experience on Friday evenings with the captivating “Gongfu Tea Ceremony.” Available daily from 6pm to 8pm. AED 168 per person.
GO: Visit www.shangri-la.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 17 June 2023
Beat the heat
Kick off the summer season in style with a pool party at Palazzo Versace Dubai’s La Piscina. A talented line-up featuring DJ Ray, DJ Korya, and DJ Gina will take the stage, keeping the energy high and everyone dancing. For the ultimate enjoyment under the sun, ladies can be part of this event with a minimum spend of AED 100, while gents can join in with a minimum spend of AED 300, both of which are fully redeemable on a selection of bites and beverages. Saturdays, from 10am.
GO: Follow @lapiscinadubai on Instagram for more information.
Experience a Portuguese festival
Embracing the spirit of Santos Populares, a Portuguese folk festival, Tasca by José Avillez atop Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, welcomes a month of joyful celebrations. Guests can expect live entertainment, traditional decorations, and the distinctive flavours of Portugal. The brunch menu includes roasted octopus, sizzling garlic prawns, charcoal-grilled seabass accompanied by zesty lemon rice, and a traditional tenderloin steak sandwich. And, of course, no Tasca experience is complete without savouring the signature pastel de nata. Every Saturday in June, from 12:30pm to 4pm. AED 350 (soft beverages) and AED 450 (house beverages).
GO: Call 04 777 2231 for reservations and more information.
Celebrate International Sushi Day
SUSHISAMBA will host an extraordinary omakase event called ‘SAMBAKASE’ in their private dining room on International Sushi Day. This Omakase experience promises an unforgettable evening for 12 fortunate guests with a curated menu crafted by Culinary Director Kyung Soo Moon. Menu highlights include Sakizuke – “Irasshaimase” (Hokkaido hairy crab with yuzu ponzu and shiso flower), Zensai (truffle chawanmushi with wagyu tataki and crispy nori sea urchin) and an assortment of sashimi, including toro, tuna, shrimp, caviar, mackerel, and cuttlefish. Saturday 17 June, from 8:30pm. AED 750 per person.
GO: Visit www.sushisamba.com for reservations and more information.
Sunday 18 June 2023
Visit Dubai’s first pet spa and bistro
Nestled amongst the hustle and bustle of downtown Dubai is a place for pets and their human companions. Located in the Manzil Souk, Pawdy Neighbours is a pet-friendly bistro serving a range of sandwiches, pizzas, freshly baked cakes, and pastries, including plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Your furry friends are welcome to join you in the café and kick back with a puppycinno or some ‘me’ time at the spa. Grooming packages range from a quick brush, wash and blow dry to the full VIP treatment, including a haircut, teeth cleaning and a trim that will set their tails wagging. Pawdy Neighbours is open daily from 7am to 10pm.
GO: Follow @pawdyneighbours on Instagram for more information.
Try a tempting new tasting menu
Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure at The Crossing. The Indian restaurant’s new tasting menu is thoughtfully divided into four sections: chaat, small plates, mains, and desserts, each offering a flavorful experience. Begin your voyage with the vibrant chaat, before savouring main courses such as the succulent lamb chop and velvety Malaiyu. Conclude your epicurean adventure with a selection of desserts. Available daily, from 12pm to 1am. AED 195 per person
GO: Visit www.crossingtherestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
