With the start of Ramadan, there’s no doubt that community spaces will overflow as those participating look to further embrace connection with one another. Despite that, the UAE has no shortage of places to visit, making community happen wherever we choose to go. So with that in mind, our weekend guide this week features recently launched spaces that help us unwind.
To Shop
Emma Hamsa
Launching their debut collection of Extrait de Parfum, UAE-based niche perfume brand Emma Hamsa bottles up memories into scents. Titled ‘The First Light’, the collection delves into themes of family and legacy and how it shapes individuals.
The collection features three fragrances—Milk of Light, Desire Skin, and Eternal Horizon—each designed to remind the wearer of a family member. Milk of Light is made with a mother’s nurturing touch in mind. As such, the scent is bright, warm, and creamy. Whereas Desire Skin embodies the depth and intimacy of a grandmother, with ambery, smoky accords. And Eternal Horizon, the last of the collection, is designed with the father in mind, with chypre, woody accords that resemble a father’s protection, guidance, and stability. Together, the trio forms a cohesive fragrance wardrobe that can be layered or worn individually.
Needle & Thread
Sometimes you might want to skip the abaya for a maxi dress. With its hyperfeminine yet modest designs, Needle & Thread have been a consistent favourite for most, from royalty to A-listers. Their recent collection features both day-to-night looks, pastel blue patterns for casual get-togethers and sequinned, more glamorous options for a night out.
To Dine
Arrogante
If you feel like stepping away from the usual buffet scene this weekend, Arrogante Dubai is offering a plated Southern Italian Iftar and Suhoor that’s all about slowing down. Think arancini filled with braised short rib ragù, creamy Parmigiano-finished risottos, grilled meats with truffle fries, and a delicate tonka cheesecake to close. Warm interiors and Burj Khalifa views make it one for lingering.
Salvaje
If you’re in the mood for something bold this weekend, Salvaje Dubai is serving Iftar and Suhoor with its signature Japanese–Latin flair. Expect vegetable harumaki, pan-seared seabass and spicy edamame, followed by panca chilli lamb chops or miso butter salmon with fried rice and braised potatoes. End with coconut tres leches, all set against dramatic interiors and Burj Khalifa views that make the evening feel elevated.
UNUSUAL | 25 Jump Street
Hosting a soft opening at 25 Jump Street, UNUSUAL takes coffee and turns it into a ritual. With minimalistic interiors featuring geometric shapes and open spaces, the cafe is built for reflection, connection, and community. Their drinks include the usual coffee and matcha orders, alongside signatures that involve coffee mixology, all presented in the most aesthetically pleasing clay mug.
CQ French Brasserie | Grand Millennium Barsha Heights
Recently opening its Barsha outpost, this laidback, Parisian brasserie is perfect for slow evenings with terrace seating to get you acquainted with the rest of Barsha Heights. Like its JLT predecessor, the menu features classic French flavours, but youwill find most diners here digging into their iconic CQ’s Steak Frites.
Gloria Osteria Dubai | The Ritz Carlton, DIFC
Recently opening its doors at the heart of DIFC, you’ll find classic Milanese cooking here with a terrace dining area fashioned to look like a Sicilian garden. And with a strong Italian influence, you can’t expect anything less than with their plates. With hand-rolled pastas, faithful ingredient sourcing, and delectably sweet treats, Gloria Osteria makes itself a place for lounging, dining, and all the in-between moments.
To Experience
Ramadan at the Circuit | Yas Marina Circuit
For those considering a trip to Yas Island, don’t forget to make a pit stop at Yas Marina Circuit. Bringing the community together for Ramadan, the venue has launched its curated Ramadan programme featuring Iftars, live entertainment, wellness, and of course, motorsport. Iftars are set to be trackside, featuring staple dishes to break the fast. Whereas wellness programmes will further support health and wellbeing during the Holy Month, while Formula 1 cars are on display for everyone to view.
The Square NAS | Nad Al Sheba
Soaking up what’s left of the Dubai winter is Nad Al Sheba Gardens. For Ramadan, The Square has turned into a wonderful night market, filled with art, live traditional music, and food pop-ups. Whether you’re looking to sit down or take a walk around, the space makes a great spot for unwinding over the weekend.
To Watch
All That’s Left of You
A heartfelt drama that follows the three-decade-long history of a Palestinian family, it’s a film that puts the Palestinian genocide into perspective, especially for those far removed from it. Screening at Cinema Akil this weekend, it makes for a thought-provoking watch that sticks with you long after the screen fades to black.
The Housemaid
Based on the 2022 novel by Freida McFadden, The Housemaid is a psychological thriller starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried in lead roles. Following the story of a troubled young woman who becomes a live-in maid for a wealthy couple, this film is a slow burn where plot twists come with a huge emotional payoff. Like most book adaptations, viewers don’t necessarily have to read the novel to understand the themes and plot, but director Paul Feig has left plenty of Easter eggs for those who did.
