Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
The UAE is heating up – and we’re not just talking about the weather. Take your pick from hot events across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and beyond. Whether you want to stay up to date with staycations, spas or swimming , here are the best things to do in the UAE this weekend.
Friday 18 July
Escape to Jumeirah Saadiyat Island
Set along Abu Dhabi’s pristine coastline, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island invites GCC residents to embrace the art of slow living. Framed by turquoise waters and powder-white sands, this serene escape blends barefoot luxury with world-class wellness, family-friendly fun, and Jumeirah’s signature hospitality. Enjoy up to 25% off stays, daily breakfast and half board options, and access to the award-winning spa, state-of-the-art gym, private beach, and three temperature-controlled pools.
GO: Visit jumeirah.com for more information.
Have lunch at L’Amo
L’Amo Bistro del Mare brings back its beloved Pranzo a L’Amo lunch with a breezy summer twist. Expect flavour-forward Italian fare like Golden Calamari, Octopus Salad, and Melanzane with datterino tomatoes to start, followed by comforting mains such as Gnocchetti Sardi Al Ragù, Milanese-style Chicken, or Ligurian-style Catch of the Day. Set against Dubai Harbour’s sparkling skyline, it’s your weekday Italian escape. Available Monday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm. AED 135 (antipasto and main), AED 155 (with dessert and coffee).
GO: Visit lamobistro.ae for more information.
Sample the summer menu at GAIA
The FACT award-winning GAIA captures the essence of Mediterranean living with a seasonal menu celebrating sun-drenched simplicity. Highlights include a vibrant Tomato Salad, Marinated Peppers with balsamic and roasted garlic, and Homemade Tagliatelle with artichoke and cherry tomato. The Grilled Chicken, marinated in lemon confit and herbs, is a standout.
GO: Visit gaia-restaurants.com for more information.
Saturday 19 July
Book a summer daycation at One&Only Royal Mirage
Trade the city for seaside serenity with a luxe daycation at One&Only Royal Mirage. Enjoy sun-drenched serenity with access to the private beach and temperature-controlled swimming pools, a leisurely lunch at the elegant Esplanade, and a 60-minute wellness treatment tailored just for you. Whether you’re recharging solo or escaping with friends, this is the indulgent reset your summer deserves. AED 690 per person.
GO: Visit sevenrooms.com for more information.
Reset and radiate at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
Step into summer with The 90-Minute Reset at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai. This signature treatment pairs a deeply therapeutic full-body massage with the glow-boosting Ling New York Express Facial, blending expert bodywork with high-performance skincare in one seamless experience. Available daily until 31 August. AED 950 (90-minute treatment).efresh. Available daily until 31 August. AED 950.
GO: Visit mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Try an Emirati afternoon tea at Gerbou
Celebrate Arab hospitality with Gerbou’s refined take on Fwala, the traditional afternoon gathering. Traditionally served between lunch and dinner, Fwala is an invitation to connect over sweet and savoury delicacies with Arabic coffee or tea this weekend. Gerbou’s Fwala offering includes Chebab with Honey, Chicken Mango Bites, Khameer with Cheese, Mini Lobster Rolls, and intricate desserts like Chocolate Cardamom Truffles, Hibiscus Macarons and Kunafa Aseeda Tart. Available daily from 3pm to 6pm.
GO: Visit gerbou.com for more information.
Sunday 20 July
Enjoy breakfast in the sky at At.mosphere Burj Khalifa
Begin your day 122 floors above Dubai with breakfast at At.mosphere. The menu begins with freshly baked viennoiserie, followed by premium Wagyu charcuterie and artisan cheeses. Lighter options include baked yoghurt with granola and honey or a fruit platter with gourmet jams and butter. Choose from organic eggs cooked to your preference, served with rösti and Wagyu bacon, or try the plant-based pancake with girolles tortellini and ghee. Available daily from 7am to 12pm. AED 450 per person or AED 600 with free-flowing mimosas.
GO: Visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com for more information.
Book yourself a diamond facial at The Chedi Al Bait
Sharjah’s premier wellness destination debuts The Diamond Ritual, a luxurious facial crafted with ethically sourced Norwegian diamond powder and lifting techniques. Created in partnership with Italian skincare brand Caliade, the exclusive UAE-first treatment promises instant radiance and rejuvenation this weekend.
GO: Visit ghmhotels.com for more information.
Try the Savage Lunch at Salmon Guru
Known for its offbeat interiors and genre-defying mixology, Salmon Guru has elevated its midday offering with the Savage Lunch. It includes two starters to share, a choice of one main course, a glass of house wine, and a daily-changing mystery dessert. Options include Coal-grilled Chicken Brochettes, Josper-grilled Lamb Cutlets, Oxtail Croquettas, Short Rib Taco Caos, and Thai Red Curry Beef Cheeks. Available daily from 12:30pm to 4pm. AED 100 per person.
GO: Call 052 814 9537 for more information.
