Weekending in Dubai: Things to Do from January 23-25

A respite from life’s daily hustle
IG: @shohraalbandari

With another week down, it’s time to unwind before Monday hurries up the pace again. While that sounds daunting, we’ve made sure our weekend guide is anything but! With new brands to shop from, spots that make you dine slowly, experiences that hit a meaningful pause, and movies that comfort you, here are the things to do in Dubai to prolong the weekend into a respite. 

To Shop

PYVOVÁRSKA

IG pyvovarskaofficial

Established by designer Kateryna Pyvovarska, PYVOVÁRSKA explores how desert elements, the UAE’s landscapes, and contemporary minimalism converge. Each piece is shaped by Kateryna’s lived experiences in Dubai—natural, breathable, yet modest, reflecting both the climate and the cultural values that shape the city. 

JW ANDERSON

Taking a look at its Autumn-Winter 2026 Collection, JW Anderson grounds his latest in people, process, and specifically craft. Crocheted lace and wool are found on skirts and dresses, complete with experimental proportions. Pleats, ruffles, and draping act to build exaggerated silhouettes which are both striking and amusing. For the modest dress, this collection leaves you spoilt for choice. High necklines, full sleeves, and asymmetrical hemlines that still give plenty of coverage are what you can expect from this collection. 

To Dine

Artisan Bakers | The Garden Concept, Sheikh Zayed Rd

IG artisanbakersae

Considering how limited the time to experience the city outdoors is, we need to make the most of it! The newly relaunched Artisan Bakers at The Garden Concept makes this even easier by serving fresh sourdough and creamy pistachio tiramisu in an outdoor garden, while you can handle plant maintenance inside. With lush plants, the hum of fountains, and the company of two cats that roam about, dining at the cafe is a multi-sensory experience. 

Viva Orilla Brunch | Orilla, Hotel Local

Supplied

With sweeping views, soulful music, and Mediterranean flavours with subtle Asian influences, Orilla launches their latest brunch will is set to become a weekend ritual. Centred on connection and family, expect vibrant starters, comforting mains, and decadent desserts all complemented by good company. 

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Dubai | Atlantis the Royal

With a MICHELIN star under its belt, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Dubai is a love letter to historic British cuisine. With recipes dating all the way back to the 1300s, expect the ingredients of the past to blend with the culinary techniques of the present. For those who like to experiment with the palate and learn a bit of history along the way, this dining experience doesn’t disappoint. P.S., don’t forget to order the iconic Meat Fruit, and no, it’s not a dessert. 

Three Cuts | Palm Jumeirah Mall

Supplied

Low-lit interiors, arched entryways, and plenty of meat to go around are what you can expect at Three Cuts. Paying homage to old school steakhouses, their premium cuts are flavoured with soul, making each bite a moment of indulgence. Beyond steaks, you can also find plates of fresh salads, raw delights, and char-kissed mains.

To Experience

Next Health | Business Bay

Supplied

With Ramadan right around the corner, why not treat your body to some self-care, understanding what it needs before beginning to fast? LA-born medical wellness center, Next Health, does exactly that, blending science and wellness, going beyond the standard face mask and green juice. Officially landing in Dubai, take your pick from IV therapies, AI-powered skin analysis, cryotherapy, and NAD+ infusions, which help with reducing inflammation, easing stress, and improving skin health. 

Jotun’s Colour Workshop | Al Quoz Arts Fest

Al Quoz Arts Fest lands this weekend, and there is no doubt that there will be plenty to see, experience, and do. For those looking to enter into a workshop that helps you explore the colours of the world, don’t forget to check out Jotun’s Colour Trends 2026. The pop-up is set as an immersive walk-through as the space unfolds across three colour worlds. While the workshop allows visitors to learn about 2026 colour palettes, decorate cupcakes inspired by these trends, and make a custom candle or floral arrangement guided by these palettes. 

Floating Breathwork Experience | Immersiv, Atlantis The Palm

Things to Do in Dubai
Supplied

Launching soon, conscious wellness platform Immersiv blends breathwork, sound, and floating in water to help guide guests into a state of calm and rest, regulating their nervous system and offering a quiet escape from the noise of daily life. Taking place at the Palm Pool, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, from 8 PM to 9:30 PM, this experience allows for a much-needed pause that we normally expect from the weekends.  

Party at the Polo

Presented by IFZA UAE and hosted at Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Party at the Polo is bringing a high-energy afternoon this January 24, with polo, music, and plenty of people-watching in a glam outdoor setting. Dress to impress, arrive early for the best views, and settle in for an easygoing day that shifts into a lively social scene as the sun goes down.

To Watch

Reel Palestine Film Festival 2026

Returning for its 12th edition, this film festival explores the breadth of contemporary Palestinian cinema through 11 feature films, 5 short films, and 29 screenings. Running January 23 to February 1, it’s a chance to experience the nuances of Palestinian culture, as told through film. 

Hamnet

Starring Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, Hamnet is a heartfelt drama taking place in 1580s England. Following the story of William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes, the story explores their grief over losing their child Hamnet through plague. A slow burn and an emotional watch, it makes for cosy weekend watching that gets your heartstrings tugging. 

Picture of Milrina Martis

Milrina Martis

Share the Post: