Depending on how long you have lived in the UAE, rain has either made or dampened your week. While forecasts predict cloudy weather, it’s a good chance to spend the weekend indoors. However, event season is in full swing and nothing is stopping brand activations, performances, or community events from happening. So here’s our guide tailored for both comfort at home and adventure outdoors.
To Shop
Aureum Collective
For those looking to add some chunky jewellery to their arsenal, Aureum Collective, founded by husband-and-wife duo Cass DiMicco and Matthew Hoyle, easily scratches that itch. Now available at OUNASS, their pieces are made to last with designs that are bold, sculptural, and easy to layer.
SALFA
As the season gets colder, the need for warm outerwear increases. Homegrown brand SALFA addresses that need while also modernising modest fashion. Their pieces are part abaya, part outerwear; it all lies in how you style them. These multidimensional pieces come with fine tailoring, contemporary cuts, and modest silhouettes.
To Dine
Limonata | Club Vista Mare
When life gives you lemons, head to Limonata! But seriously, if you’re looking to unwind by the beach and have a slow lunch, then the Italian family-friendly eatery is an easy stop for the day. Fresh salads, pastas, and pizzas are a given, as well as Limonate (Italian lemonade) to sip on by the waves.
Al Manara Beach Bar | Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
If you’re not spending the UAE winter by the beach, then where are you really? Al Manara Beach Bar makes the option even more tempting with their Sun Kissed Brunch. With global flavours and live cooking stations alongside seaside waves, it’s a dining experience made for unwinding.
To Experience
A Fairytale for Christmas | New Covent Garden, Mall of the Emirates
For those looking to indulge in the festive spirit this weekend, why not attend a Christmas concert? A Fairytale for Christmas is a captivating performance filled with Christmas jingles and Irish storytelling. A family-friendly affair, the concert will take place all throughout the weekend.
Winter Block Party | Paus, Al Wasl
This Saturday, December 20, wellness club Paus will be hosting its Winter Block Party. Taking place throughout the day, this event aims to bring the community together with local markets, creative workshops, wellness sessions, open mic performances, festive treats, and a community wish tree.
Dove Arabia x CAIA Cafe | CAIA Cafe, Box Park
Open till December 28 at the heart of Box Park, this activation by Dove Arabia brings their Advanced Care Anti-Perspirant range to life through flavours and textures. Visitors can explore the range as well as indulge in a bespoke pastry menu created by CAIA Café. The first 100 guests to purchase the pastry will also receive a customisable Dove charm bag. A dedicated photobooth will also be available, creating mementoes of the experience.
To Watch
Emily in Paris | Netflix
Releasing their latest season this Thursday—and a nifty Fendi collaboration on the side—Emily in Paris is a fun bingeable watch for the weekend. The fifth season of the show follows our protagonist, Emily Cooper (played by Lily Collins), as she navigates a career change as well as a city change.
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York | Endless x Cinemama
Endless, the UAE-based platform focused on circular fashion, is celebrating the festive season by inviting the community over for a cosy movie experience. Partnering with Cinemama, guests are invited to watch Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, the feel-good Christmas movie of the season. Taking place on Sunday, December 21 at 6:30 PM, viewers can also expect festive treats—think hot chocolate, spiced winter drinks, and of course, popcorn. Attendance is free, but prior registration is required at Endless’ website
