Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
The final weekend in September is finally upon us, and the UAE is filled with exciting things to do. So, whether you’re after staycations, spas or swimming – here’s what you need to know.
Friday 26 September
Have lunch at La Petite Maison
La Petite Maison refreshes its Business Lunch with seasonal dishes that spotlight European produce. Current highlights include Duck Confit, Grilled Sirloin, Quinoa Salad, Roasted Cod, Smoked Salmon Carpaccio and Warm Prawns. A tomato sits on every table so guests can customise a simple tomato salad alongside their meal. Available Monday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm. AED 135 per person (one starter and one main course) and AED 180 per person (one starter, one main course and one dessert).
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Book the private dining room at Zuma
Zuma Dubai, the most awarded restaurant in the history of the FACT Dining Awards, unveils the Ishigaki Wine Room. This intimate space houses more than 700 wine labels and 65 sakes, curated over 17 years. Expect rare vintages, exclusive imports and collaborations with world-class winemakers. Each experience includes a dedicated server sommelier to guide a bespoke menu and pairing.
GO: Visit www.zumarestaurant.com for more information.
Watch Swan Lake at Dubai Opera
After last year’s sold-out run, Swan Lake returns to Dubai Opera. The timeless tale of Prince Siegfried and the cursed Swan Princess has captivated audiences for over a century. First staged in 1877, it was the later choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov that shaped the version beloved around the world today. This production, performed by the Hungarian National Ballet with the Hungarian National Opera Orchestra, honours that tradition with thoughtful revisions by Rudi van Dantzig and Toer van Schayk. At its heart is the ballerina’s dual role as Odette and Odile, a demanding showcase of technique and artistry that remains a benchmark for any prima ballerina and a highlight for ballet lovers.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 27 September
Fire up the grill at PJ O’Reilly’s
PJ O’Reilly’s brings South African flair to the capital with a Braai Day BBQ Brunch. Expect smoky grills, generous platters, backyard favourites and live music for the whole family. Available on Saturday, 27 September. AED 250 (soft beverages), AED 349 (premium beverages) and AED 125 for children aged six to 12 years.
GO: Visit https://b2c.eat2eatmsp.com for more information.
Marvel at Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live
High-octane thrills return as Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire lights up Etihad Arena on 27 September. The dark-room format combines neon with flames, fireworks and full-throttle stunts. Eight icons are set to roar, including Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, Mega Wrex, Gunkster, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm and Arcticgon, the fire-breathing, car-chomping beast.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Hit the sand at Saadiyat Beach Club
The FACT Award-winning Saadiyat Beach Club extends pool hours with unlimited sips and a party atmosphere. Make a splash as DJs Nuff and Jay Beats join Boudi the Percussionist to keep the energy high from sunset into the night. Saturday, 27 September, 4pm to 9pm. AED 299 for ladies and AED 399 for gents.
GO: Visit www.saadiyatbeachclub.ae for more information.
Sunday 28 September
Celebrate One Day Only with Headie One
British rapper Headie One makes his Dubai debut at COVEBEACH in JBR. Running from 12pm until late on Sunday, 28 September, One Day Only features high-energy sets from local and international talent, including Dynamic, Moky, Scottie B, Semo and Sir Taz.
GO: Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk for more information.
Catch BLACKBIRD at Cinema Akil
Running from 26 to 28 September, at Cinema Akil in Alserkal Avenue, BLACKBRD draws inspiration from Nina Simone’s song of the same name, and brings together cinema, conversation and connection. The event will feature screenings of influential films that explore the Black experience, accompanied by talks from a range of speakers. On 28 September, there will be screenings of Malcolm X, directed by Spike Lee, Akeelah and the Bee starring Keke Palmer in her breakout role, and Memories of Love Returned.
GO: Visit https://cinemaakil.com for more information.
Have dinner at a FACT award-winner
The FACT award-winning Jun’s in Downtown Dubai is helmed by Chef Kelvin Cheung and known for its bold, globally-inspired dishes. The venue’s pre-theatre menu features starters such as Rainbow Heirloom Carrots, Salmon Carpaccio, Mapo Burrata, or Chilli Chicken. Choose between Tempura Veg and Garlic Noodles, Jalapeño Onion Wagyu Smash Burger with Fries, or Grilled Salmon for mains. Round off your meal with a choice of delightful desserts, including Mango Panna Cotta or Baked Alaska Tiramisu Mochi with Hot Chocolate Mocha. Available daily from 5:30pm to 7pm. AED 165 per person (two-course menu).
GO: Visit www.junsdubai.com for more information.
