Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
The weekend has arrived, and despite the soaring summer temperatures, Dubai is packed with reasons to head out. From leisurely brunches and stylish staycations to live entertainment and waterfront dining, plenty is happening across the city over the next few days. Whether you’re looking to unwind, indulge or simply make the most of your time off, here are the best things to do in Dubai this weekend.
Friday 17 July
Enjoy an unlimited breakfast at Brasserie Uptown
Kick-start your weekend with a leisurely breakfast at Brasserie Uptown, where an unlimited à la carte experience is designed for slow mornings and weekend catchups. Expect a generous spread of sweet and savoury breakfast favourites, freshly prepared to order, including classic Eggs Benedict, fluffy buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh berries, avocado sourdough toast, scrambled eggs croissants, and decadent French toast, all served alongside fresh juices and barista-style coffee. Whether you’re fuelling up before a busy day of exploring or simply looking to linger over breakfast with friends, this relaxed dining experience offers plenty of variety in a stylish setting that’s worth a visit. It’s the perfect way to start your weekend. AED 59 per person.
Where: Brasserie Uptown, SO/ Uptown Dubai Hotel, Uptown Tower, Uptown Dubai, Dubai
When: Monday to Friday, 7am to 10.30am
Contact: www.so-hotels.com
Partner Listing: Check into a family staycation at InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Swap your usual weekend plans for a fabulous summer staycation at InterContinental Dubai Festival City. The “Shop. Stay. Savour.” package includes a two-night stay with a complimentary room upgrade, daily buffet breakfast, and dinner featuring global flavours across eight live cooking stations at Anise. As the evening sets in, head to Vista Restaurant & Terrace for Rhythm and Vibes nights, featuring soulful live vocals, signature cocktails, and stunning skyline views. Guests will also receive a mall voucher and spa credit so they can fully enjoy their stay.
Where: InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Dubai
Contact: www.dubaifestivalcityhotels.com
Discover Dubai’s newest wellness club at Swell
Escape the summer heat at Swell Dubai, a retro-inspired wellness destination that brings movement, recovery, and community together under one roof. This design-led health club offers seven distinct class formats, including pilates, barre-inspired sculpt, strength training and much more. After your workout, unwind at Swell Café, where a curated wellness-focused menu awaits. It’s the perfect place to embrace summer wellness.
Where: Swell, Warehouse 25, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, Dubai
When: Daily, 7am to 9pm
Contact: https://www.clubswell.com/
Saturday 18 July
Celebrate World Caviar Day at Mimi Kakushi
Spend Saturday indulging in Mimi Kakushi’s limited-edition World Caviar Day Brunch, a one-day-only celebration of Japanese flavours. Alongside the restaurant’s signature brunch menu, guests can enjoy a live caviar station and an exclusive Crispy Chocolate Caviar dessert with yuzu custard and cocoa nib tuile. Choose from non-alcoholic, house beverage, or Champagne packages while soaking up one of Dubai’s most sought-after brunch experiences. It’s a fantastic way to spend a summer afternoon with friends. Packages start from AED 450 per person.
Where: Mimi Kakushi, Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort, Dubai
When: Saturday, 18 July from 12pm to 4pm
Contact: www.mimikakushi.ae
Partner Listing: Enjoy a refined Thai lunch at Pai Thai
Treat yourself to a leisurely weekend lunch at Pai Thai, where the Kin Samrap Lunch experience offers a refined taste of Thailand in a stunning waterside setting. Curated by Chef Amara Mahayothee, the menu showcases authentic Thai flavours through a selection of thoughtfully crafted dishes, from delicate starters to flavourful mains. Surrounded by the tranquil waterways of Jumeirah Al Qasr, this elegant dining experience is perfect for a relaxed catch-up with friends, family, or colleagues.
Where: Pai Thai, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Dubai
When: Fridays and Sundays from 12.30pm to 2.30pm
Contact: www.jumeirah.com
Watch Michael Lives Forever at Coca-Cola Arena
Celebrate the legacy of the King of Pop as Rodrigo Teaser brings Michael Lives Forever to Coca-Cola Arena. Regarded as one of the world’s leading Michael Jackson tribute artists, it delivers an authentic production featuring a live band, dancers, iconic costumes, and spectacular visuals. Having worked with members of Jackson’s original creative team, the show promises an evening filled with unforgettable performances of classics, including Thriller and Billie Jean.
Where: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai
When: Saturday, 18 July 2026
Contact: www.coca-cola-arena.com
Sunday 19 July
Catch the FIFA 2026 World Cup Final at Palm Arena
Palm Arena is returning to Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, bigger and reimagined for the football season. The venue will screen the FIFA 2026 World Cup final across multiple large-format screens. Guests can also enjoy daily happy hour from 5pm to 7pm, special combo deals, game-night offers, PlayStation gaming stations, darts and interactive entertainment. With live DJ sets and a gastropub-style food and drinks menu, Palm Arena 2.0 is built for groups, match nights and post-game celebrations.
Where: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Palm West Beach, Dubai
Contact: www.sevenrooms.com
Partner Listing: Escape the summer heat at HuqqA Dubai Mall
Cool off this summer with a visit to HuqqA Dubai Mall, where elevated dining, striking interiors, and stunning views of Downtown Dubai come together. Step away from the heat and into a stylish indoor retreat offering contemporary Turkish cuisine, handcrafted non-alcoholic beverages, and a vibrant atmosphere. Overlooking the Dubai Fountain and surrounded by the city’s spectacular skyline, HuqqA Dubai Mall provides one of the best indoor vantage points while indulging in a leisurely meal.
Where: HuqqA Dubai Mall, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai.
When: Daily from 10am to 2am
Contact: https://huqqa.com
Spend your day by the sea at African Queen
Transport yourself to the French Riviera with African Queen’s elegant La Vita En Rosé Sunday lunch at J1 Beach. Set against a stunning beachfront backdrop, this lively weekly event features soulful live vocals by singer Lina Ammor, creating a chic and relaxed atmosphere. For your meal, indulge in the Summer Riviera Lunch, a refined three-course Mediterranean menu, or choose from signature sharing dishes on the à la carte selection, including the famous wood-fired truffle pizza, crowd-favourite artichoke and truffle salad, or a traditional Niçoise salad prepared tableside with tuna ventresca. Complete the experience by pairing these exquisite flavours with flowing, unlimited chilled Provence rosé. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy a sun-drenched Sunday with friends and family. AED 290 per person.
Where: African Queen, J1 Beach, Dubai
When: Sundays, from 1pm to 5pm
Contact: www.j1beach.com