2026 begins with a weekend, continuing the season with rest and a reflective pause. Hopefully, this translates to a year of ease, but that’s us wishfully thinking. Although it’s a new year, we’re in the middle of the winter season, so a moment of repose is just what we all need. Similarly, our weekend guide this week aims to reflect the same with new dining spots that comfort you, experiences that help you reflect inwards, and films that hit the ideal balance between comedy and cosy.
To Shop
July Playlist
Available at The Blue Lounge, a concept store based in Mirdif, Dubai, July Playlist brings dainty, feminine prints to their abayas. Almost like doodles, their floral motifs contrast with fabric colours, making for striking, one-of-one designs that you’d be pressed to find anywhere else.
Mood | Taif Al Emarat
If you’re using 2026 to redefine who you are, why not start with scent? Taif Al Emarat’s latest release, Mood, aims to uplift and redefine moods with its scent notes. Opening with pear and hazelnut, it starts off sweet before leading into the heart notes of saffron and rose, blending sweetness with rich floral notes. Finally, it dries down to a creamy base of sandalwood and ambrette seeds. Soft, spicy, yet also fruity and nutty, it encapsulates the warmth of winter.
To Dine
Ergon Agora | Boulevard Heights Downtown, Downtown Dubai
Recently opened, Ergon Agora adds to Dubai’s dining scene with fresh Greek flavours. Expect a table with vibrant salads, comforting bread baskets, and smoky chargrilled meats. Beyond the table, you can also find their retail space, which houses Mediterranean staples in the form of artisanal Greek products, premium species, olive oils, spices, and other pantry items sourced from local Greek producers.
Subko UAE | Alserkal Avenue
Recently opened to the Alserkal Avenue crowd, this Indian fan-favourite brings its beloved speciality coffee and premium cacao products to the trendy arts district. Whether you’re looking to indulge in their fusion food or looking to grab a coffee for the stroll outside, Subko makes sure you can have both.
To Experience
Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook: The Bouquet and the Wreath | Jameel Arts Centre
For those looking to spend their weekend indulging in art, you can never go wrong with a visit to Jameel Arts Centre. The latest exhibition by Thai artist Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook is an ambitious curation, featuring artwork created over the past 45 years. Dealing in themes of desire, mortality, curiosity, and celebration, it’s a reflective curation that challenges the fine line between happy and unhappy states of mind.
Lady Bird | 25 Jump Street
25 Jump Street continues to enrich guests with its dining offers, and the latest addition of Lady Bird only continues its momentum. Ideal for a weekend night, Lady Bird offers bites, drinks, and a warm atmosphere, seamlessly blending with the city’s appetite for vibrant nightlife.
To Watch
Tala2ni
A wholesome comedy starring Dina El Sherbiny, Karim Mahmoud Abdul-Aziz, and Hatem Salah, Tala2ni follows the story of a divorced couple who are forced to reunite, turning their story into a series of challenges and goofy encounters.
Microphone | Cinema Akil in 25hours
An independent Egyptian film, it is still garnering hype 10+ years into its release. Focusing on the underground art scene in the city of Alexandria, Egypt, it’s a deeper look into Egyptian society not commonly noticed.
