Get your calendars out – exhilarating adventures, brunch and culture await.
It’s the start of a new week, which means new things to do in the UAE. If you thought summer was a quiet season in the UAE, think again. Whether you’re looking for moments of zen or high-energy activities, Abu Dhabi and Dubai have it. Retreat indoors and read on for our picks of the best things to do in the UAE this week.
Monday 14 July
Gather the girls at Genatsvale
Tucked away in the serene surrounds of East Palm Views, Genatsvale delivers a slice of Georgia to the city, complete with marina views and warm hospitality. Every Monday, ladies can enjoy a curated antipasto platter paired with three glasses of hand-picked wine, all for AED 150. Add an open kitchen and a yacht club setting, and you’ve got the recipe for an effortlessly elegant evening.
GO: Visit www.genatsvale.ae for more information.
Tuesday 15 July
A Riviera lunch awaits at African Queen
Chef Fabio Fasano brings the French Riviera to your plate with African Queen’s refined new weekday lunch. The three-course set menu includes King Crab Gazpacho, Red Tuna with confit tomatoes, and Veal Scallopini in lemon butter sauce. Throw in beachside views and relaxed vibes, and it’s a lunch worth lingering over. Available Monday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm. AED 250 per person.
GO: Visit africanqueen-restaurant.com for more information.
Wednesday 16 July
Go full retro at Antika Night, Ishtar Yas Marina
Step into the golden era of Beirut every Wednesday night at Ishtar. From 8pm, Antika Night delivers a high-energy dose of nostalgia with live bouzouki music, a belly dancing performance, and a flavour-packed Lebanese set menu with selected beverages — all for AED 190. It’s midweek magic, with rhythm and style.
GO: WhatsApp 050 402 2293 for more information.
Thursday 17 July
Lunch like a Venetian at Rialto
Rialto at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab takes you straight to the heart of Venice. Executive Chef Roberto Rispoli’s seasonal summer lunch includes refined antipasti, theatrical tableside pasta, and citrus-kissed mains like Scaloppine al Limone. Wrap up with Rialto’s signature tiramisu, scooped fresh to order. Available Monday to Thursday, 12:30pm to 3:30pm. AED 140 (two courses) or AED 165 (three courses).
GO: Visit jumeirah.com for more information.
Friday 18 July
Plan a luxe summer stay at Bab Al Qasr
Looking for a summer escape without leaving the UAE? Bab Al Qasr Hotel is offering family and couples’ packages through August 2025. Families can enjoy suite stays with breakfast or half-board, spa and water sports discounts, and a complimentary 15-minute kayaking or paddle session. Couples get a two-night stay with a room upgrade and similar perks — perfect for a sun-soaked staycation.
GO: Email reservations@babalqasr.com or call 02 205 3000 for more information.
Saturday 19 July
Try the bkry pop up at Museum of the Future
Dubai’s Museum of the Future is welcoming bkry, the cult-favourite bakespace from Alserkal Avenue, for its first-ever pop-up this summer. This immersive experience blends innovation, sustainability, and serious flavour. Expect fresh pastries, inventive all-day breakfasts, and exclusive chocolate creations, all with a side of ethical storytelling. Expect workshops on regenerative farming, food upcycling, and wheat from the UAE’s first organic farm. Available daily from 9am to 9pm until 31 August.
GO: Follow @bkry.space on Instagram for more information.
Sunday 20 July
Tuck into a classic roast at The Copperhead
Located inside the Marriott Marquis Dubai Creek, The Copperhead brings British comfort to Dubai with its Sunday roast offering. Choose from tender beef or juicy chicken with all the trimmings for AED 99, or opt for the full experience with a house beverage for AED 119. Available every Sunday from 1pm.
GO: Follow @thecopperheaddubai on Instagram for more information.
