Here’s how to make the most of the upcoming weekend.
Summer is in full swing but the UAE is still bursting with things to do. Whether you’re after cool pop-ups, dining deals or a beach club fun, then you’re in luck. Here are the best things to do this weekend in the UAE.
Friday 1 August
Have a magical day out with Harry Potter
Harry Potter: The Exhibition opened on Harry Potter’s birthday – 31 July. Located at Manarat Al Saadiyat on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, it promises a magical experience for all ages. See the first edition of Philosopher’s Stone in a vault, fight off Dementors, spot your name on the Marauder’s Map, and step into the Great Hall.
GO: Visit https://feverup.com for more information.

Enjoy summer deals at McGettigan’s Souk Madinat
McGettigan’s Souk Madinat has launched its Summer Madness deal, available all summer long. For three hours, guests can enjoy unlimited beverages and 50 per cent off food for AED 199, from Sunday to Friday. The venue has recently undergone a renovation. Expect top-notch promotions, live entertainment, and standout food and drink offerings every day of the week. Whether you’re after brunch, cocktails, or a roast, there’s something for everyone this summer.
GO: Visit www.mcgettigans.com/reservemadinat for more information.

Miami Vibes opens a drive-through in Al Ain
Al Ain is bringing the Miami Vibes. The brand is no stranger to the region, having previously hosted a food festival and a Ramadan pop-up. Throughout August, a summer drive-through is open. Enjoy a range of stalls, including Ali Bhai for Middle Eastern cuisine, Burger and Roll for burgers, and Slice Forty Five for pizzas.
GO: Follow @miamivibes.ae on Instagram for more information.

Saturday 2 August
Get your game on at Lucky8 Abu Dhabi
The new gaming lounge, Lucky8 Abu Dhabi, has opened on Saadiyat Island. The venue combines family-friendly fun with arcades, billiards, board games, karaoke, pool tables, and video games. The space includes old-school arcades, four billiard tables, and PlayStation consoles.
GO: Follow @lucky8.uae on Instagram for more information

Cool down at BRIX Café’s winter pop-up
The heat is high in Dubai, but there’s a cool spot to escape it. BRIX Café has launched a new winter-themed pop-up. Located in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour and running throughout the summer, the venue offers a retreat inspired by Davos, Switzerland. Expect snowy décor, images of ski slopes, and disco balls dusted with snowflakes.
GO: Visit https://brixdessert.com for more information.

Book brunch at Buffalo Wings & Rings
Buffalo Wings & Rings in DIFC and JLT is serving up an irresistible brunch deal, and is a great way to spend this weekend in the UAE. Running every Saturday and Sunday from 3pm to 6pm and 8pm to 11pm, guests can enjoy three hours of non-stop bites and sips. The soft package starts from AED 119, while the house package starts from AED 199. My Buffalo App users enjoy discounted rates — AED 99 and AED 169 respectively. Enjoy good vibes, great food, and unbeatable deals.
GO: Visit https://dubai.bwr-intl.com for more information.

Sunday 3 August
Check Out Huda Beauty and Temple Creamery’s collaboration
Running until Sunday, 3 August, Huda Beauty and Temple Creamery have teamed up for a limited-time pop-up. Located at Temple Creamery in Al Wasl, Dubai, the pop-up features juicy lip products and exclusive frozen treats to match.
GO: Follow @templecreamery on Instagram for more information.

Eat at the new John Dory Seafood Market
John Dory Seafood Market has recently opened at The Market Island in Dubai Festival City Mall. Proudly claiming the title of the region’s first head-to-tail seafood restaurant, the venue offers a fresh take on seafood dining. The restaurant seats approximately 80 guests and focuses on open-fire cooking. Dishes include Baked Oysters, Dry-Aged Tuna Steaks, Galician-Style Octopus, and King Crab Croquettes.
GO: Follow @johndory.ae on Instagram for more information.

Sing your heart out at the new Ming Dynasty
A new Chinese restaurant, Ming Dynasty, has opened at Dubai Mall. It offers a fun way to spend this weekend in the UAE. At the heart of the venue is an international buffet featuring signature dishes like Peking Duck. The restaurant also includes a karaoke room with a lounge and LED screens animated with dragons.
GO: Visit https://mingdynasty.ae for more information.
