With still a few weeks of the month of Ramadan, we’re spotting new markets, new collections, and well, new experiences on the way. It can seem overwhelming because in a dynamic place like the UAE, you can never really escape FOMO. But along with fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection, we’re keeping FOMO at bay and spending the weekend in the chillest of moods. Reaching out for the fun, but low-key vibes, here are the spots worth exploring this weekend.
To Shop
Tyler Ellis x Hamda Al Fahim
For the Holy Month, handbag brand Tyler Ellis partnered up with Emirati designer Hamda Al Fahim to spotlight focus on a wardrobe accessory that carries us during Iftars, Suhoors, family gatherings, and Eid celebrations: the statement evening bag. A capsule collection featuring Ellis’ Italian-based construction and Fahim’s Abu Dhabi-based embroidery, each piece redefines timeless silhouettes with artisanal finishes that cannot help but grab the attention.
Som Active
Founded by Kuwaiti entrepreneur, Dana Al Khobaizi, Som Active is a recreational-focused brand that is rooted in wellness, intentional living, and a purposeful mindset. Pairing activewear with general day-to-day living, their pieces are made for a versatile environment. Their latest Ramadan edit focuses on exactly that, highlighting pieces that support movement without restricting the body, whether that’s low-impact training before Iftar, gentle stretching after Suhoor, or evening walks with the rest of the community.
Rajdeep Ranawat
What we love about Rajdeep Ranawat is the brand’s dedication to sustainability. Using eco-friendly, sustainable organic and silk fabrics, the brand utilises the best of Indian artistry to produce fine kaftans and dresses rich in detail.
To Dine
A New Era of Healthy Hedonism at SLO
If you’re bored of the usual “wellness menu” routine, try SLO this weekend. It’s set up like a food lab, with a microbiome-first approach that thinks about rhythm and sequence, not just ingredients. Expect fibre-rich, protein-forward comfort dishes, a signature pre-meal Biombooster to start, functional Blendbooster drinks, and desserts that stay light without feeling like a compromise.
GITANO | J1 Beach
If you want an iftar that feels like a proper change of scene, head to GITANO Dubai on J1 Beach. It’s served sharing-style, starting with bright, snacky starters, moving into comforting pozole, then mains like baby chicken, branzino and quesabirria. Save room for churros and Dubai chocolate tacos, then linger beachside as the night settles in.
KuRiMu | Mirdif Avenue Mall
Recently opened, this cafe has been slowly making the rounds only for its cute aesthetics. The grey interiors might give off an air of coldness, but the speciality coffees and matchas with a side of art experiences bring in the brightness. You can get into the art of cake decorating, flower arrangement, or grab a teddy bear plushie that comes with each purchase for that Insta-worthy moment.
Lion in the Sun | Mandarin Oriental Downtown
Gathering hype as a restaurant to look out for, Lion in the Sun officially opened during Race Weekend. And considering that the place is owned by Formula One adviser Flavio Briatore, it sounds so obvious in hindsight! Inspired by the warm energy of his Kenyan resort, Lion in the Sun brings that sun-soaked East African energy to the hospitable nature of Dubai. Featuring a rotation of guests since its opening, clear Burj Khalifa views, and char-kissed steaks and lobsters, this new outpost makes for an easy date night spot where good food and good company converge.
To Experience
Miu Miu’s Sunset to Sunrise | The Yard, Alserkal Avenue
Celebrating the month of Ramadan with a special activation, Miu Miu’s program, Sunset to Sunrise, focuses on the hum of Ramadan evenings. Taking place till March 6, the event will host workshops, live performances, culinary experiences, and more. Entrance is open to the public with registration required upon entry.
Moonlight Market | The Plaza, Uptown Dubai
Recently opened for open-air events and entertainment, The Plaza debuts its venue with the Moonlight Market, a cosy contemporary Ramadan market that blends design, culture, food, and live entertainment. Between food trucks, retail stalls, art installations, live mural paintings, and a cinema under the stars, the market makes for both a friendly girls’ night out or a family affair.
To Watch
Is This Thing On? | Cinemacity
One of those easy rom-coms to sink your teeth in, Is This Thing On? is a slow drama that takes you on a journey of self-discovery. Following the story of Alex, played by Will Arnett, and Tess, played by Laura Dern, and their impending divorce, this film tackles purpose, co-parenting, identity, and love. It’s raw, real, and with the actors’ performances, a heartfelt weekend watch.
Mountain Boy | Etihad Museum
Taking place on February 28 at 8:30 PM, Etihad Museum is set to do a special Ramadan film screening of Mountain Boy. A coming-of-age film set in the UAE landscapes, this film follows the story of Suhail, played by Naser Salah. As a young Emirati boy with autism, he finds comfort living alone in the Fujairah mountains, until he meets a child caught in a storm, which sets off a journey beyond the mountains.
The screening will be followed by an exclusive Q&A with Director Zainab Shaheen, Producer Nancy Paton, Writer Michelle Ziolkowski, Actor Naser Almessabi, and guest Saleh Almessabi. Whereas attendance is free with prior registration, and seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
