Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
The final weekend in June is here, and before the UAE empties out for the summer, we have compiled the best places to visit in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this weekend. We’re recommending blissful beachfront retreats, brunches, and plenty of dining inspiration, so read on for our picks of the best things to do in Dubai this weekend.
Friday 27 June
Escape to the Ras Al Khaimah shoreline
If your idea of the perfect day involves sun-soaked serenity and effortless indulgence, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach, is calling your name. This experience offers access to the resort’s secluded private beach and serene poolside haven. Whether you’re sinking your toes into the sand or cooling off beneath swaying palms, it’s all about slowing down in the most elegant way possible. Priced at AED 200 per person, the day pass includes AED 100 credit to spend on food and beverages, which is ideal for sampling the resort’s coastal-inspired cuisine.
GO: Visit https://linktr.ee/rcrak_alhamraoffers for more information.
Soak up the sun on Al Aqah Beach
Break away from the everyday monotony and escape to the serene shores of Fujairah with a day pass at Royal M Hotel & Resort by Gewan Al Aqah Beach. This elevated daycation package offers full access to the infinity pool, private beach, and the added bonus of F&B credit (AED 200 on weekdays and AED 300 on weekends). Framed by panoramic views of Snoopy Island and the Hajar Mountains, it’s a destination made for leisurely lounging, refreshing dips, and beachfront bites.
GO: Email fo.rmaq@royalmhotels.com or call 09 204 6638 for reservations and more information.
Dine in the desert at Gobi
Hidden inside The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Gobi is a newly opened Pan-Asian restaurant inspired by the five Chinese elements: Earth, Fire, Metal, Water and Wood. This refined dining destination offers a sensory journey across Asia, where vibrant spices meet meticulous techniques, and each dish is crafted to reflect elemental harmony. From signature creations to the striking ambience, Gobi delivers a sophisticated reimagining of Asian cuisine, rooted in tradition and elevated with contemporary flair.
GO: Visit https://linktr.ee/gobi.rak for more information.
Saturday 28 June
Slip and slide at Aquaventure After Dark
Dubai’s wildest moonlit waterpark party is back, and this time, it’s bigger, bolder, and wetter than ever. Expect to brave the likes of Shockwave, the world’s tallest waterslide of its kind, or experience the heart-pounding drop of Odyssey of Terror, the Middle East’s tallest vertical body slide. Cliff jumping, a first for the region, adds an extra dose of courage-testing fun. But the fun doesn’t end in the water. A top-tier DJ lineup, including DJ Bliss, DJ Keza, and Mr. Shef Codes, will keep the energy pumping across the venue. Available on Saturday, 28 June, from 8pm to midnight. AED 249.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Dance at Dubai’s first indoor Afro festival
Organised by AfroLOUD, the city’s first-ever indoor Afro summer festival is poised to bring Afro music and culture to the UAE. Kingdom is an indoor music festival taking place at Zabeel Hall 6, Dubai World Trade Centre. Expect this space to be transformed into a hub of music, dance, and experiences — all under an air-conditioned roof. The lineup includes the queen of Amapiano, Uncle Waffles, alongside Grammy-winning Afrohouse genius Zakes Bantwini. General admission tickets start from AED 199.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Listen to jazz in a sky-high setting
Every Saturday evening, Culinara sets the mood with an elegant live jazz experience fronted by acclaimed vocalist Lisa Goldin. Known for her velvety vocals, Lisa breathes new life into timeless jazz classics and contemporary favourites, offering a performance that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Backed by a soulful live duo and elevated by refined musical arrangements, you can sip on signature cocktails at the bar or settle in for a long, luxurious dinner. Available on Saturdays from 7pm to 11pm.
GO: Visit www.culinaradubai.com for more information.
Sunday 29 June
Soak up the sun at African Queen
Escape the heat this summer at African Queen, which brings the effortless elegance of the French Riviera to J1 Beach. Enjoy a sun-soaked pool day complete with Mediterranean cuisine, exotic cocktails, and terracotta-lined loungers that channel the Côte d’Azur in every detail. Originally founded in 1969 in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, African Queen has long been a favourite of icons like Bono, Naomi Campbell, and Sylvester Stallone, and its Dubai outpost continues that legacy with a contemporary edge. While the beach will be closed for the season, the poolside experience remains open daily until 15 September. AED 300 per person (with AED 150 fully redeemable on food and beverages).
GO: Visit africanqueen-restaurant.com for more information.
Tuck into a wonderful weekend lunch
The FACT award-winning Jun’s on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard reinvents the weekend lunch with its refreshed Weekend Rituals. Expect a menu featuring bold, globally inspired flavours, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Highlights include Char Siu Wagyu Short Rib Claypot Rice, Rainbow Heirloom Carrots and the indulgent Chocolate Pancake. Available every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 3:30pm. AED 150 (two courses) or AED 180 (three courses)
GO: Visit www.junsdubai.com for more information.
Try Chef Reif Othman’s Dragonfly tasting menu
Dragonfly has unveiled the Chef Reif Experience Menu, a multi-course dining experience that blends tradition with modern technique. Crafted by Chef Reif Othman, highlights include the Kagoshima Wagyu Croquette, Miso Black Cod, and Salmon Tataki. For those looking to elevate the evening, a premium sake pairing is available. Available daily from 8pm to 11pm. AED 568 per person.
GO: Visit www.dragonfly-dxb.com for more information.
