While the week has been a bumpy one, we’re determined not to have it define our weekend. And since public life is still relatively safe, we’re choosing to spend this weekend unwinding over new experiences. With a range of new launches, openings, pop-ups, and screenings to look forward to, these are the spots we have on our radar for this weekend.
To Shop
AÏZA
Homegrown brand AÏZA is finally making its in-store debut by launching at Ulta Beauty. Focusing on clean skincare and haircare inspired by traditional Arabian rituals, you can find tried-and-true ingredients like dates and frankincense mixed with modern skincare techniques, allowing the products to harness the best of both worlds. Between their Sukkar Rush lip treatment that plumps the lips with dates, honey, and peptides, and their Scent Storm hair mist, which bottles up the essence of bakhour, AÏZA makes it easier for the modern woman to keep up with time-honoured rituals by reinventing the traditional.
FOLD
Recently releasing their SS26 collection, FOLD takes jalabiyas and abayas and transforms them with contemporary storytelling. Asymmetrical cuts, colour-blocked pieces, and, with their recent collection, intricate floral designs are what you can expect from this label. You can also take your pick between ready-to-wear or customised pieces for a one-of-a-kind item.
Kajal Perfumes
Although they are rooted in Paris, niche fragrance house Kajal Perfumes has its heart in the GCC. Inspired by the artistry of the Arab world and the symbolism of ‘Kajal’ that’s rooted in both Arab and Indian culture, the perfume house creates fragrances that hit similar beats—drawing from the two cultures, their perfume stories, and their spiritual essence. With a curated portfolio of 25 fragrances, each one is multifaceted and layered with depth, ranging from fresh, clean scents to dark, sensual ones.
To Dine
AMARU | Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Celebrating Dubai Restaurant Week, AMARU is turning its refined Latin American dining experience into a three-course dinner menu. Priced at Dhs 250 per person, guests can grab a taste of what AMARU is all about while also experiencing the depth of flavour involved in Latin American cuisine. The menu begins with starters such as the Beef Empanada with tenderloin and ají amarillo, before moving on to rich, delectable mains such as the 36-hour Asado Negro, a slow-cooked short rib dish that bursts with flavour. Desserts end the journey on an indulgent note where guests can take their pick between the Dulce de Leche Fondante, AMARU’s signature churros served with dark chocolate and dulce de leche, or more, allowing those to experience the dinner in their own, unhurried pace.
TANSŌ | Jumeirah 1
Opening its doors today is TANSŌ, a chef-led dining gallery that rejects the current image of exported Japanese cuisine. Instead, it aims to showcase Tokyo’s layered understanding of how dining can operate, both with precision and disruption. The focus here is all about flavour, craft, and atmosphere, immersive without being chaotic and expressive without falling into a gimmick. The menu also carries the same principle, with both accessible and indulgent options to feast on, ranging from Hamachi Apple, a dish made with yellowtail, apple sashimi, and jalapeño acid, to an A5 Wagyu Striploin Ishiyaki, finished on stone with ponzu and gochujang. Whether you’re looking to try out a new experience or have a slow evening, TANSŌ expertly comes with both.
To Experience
FIX Dessert Chocolatier Pop-Up | Kite Beach
The brand behind the Dubai Chocolate frenzy is bringing its sweetness to Kite Beach this weekend. Hosting an immersive art stall from May 9–10, from 4 PM to 12 AM, the activation invites the public to write messages of kindness, unity, and positivity, which will then be curated and translated into artwork that form a limited-edition FIX Hero Box, which will be released later this year. The messages will also be updated in real time across the installation, turning the community’s voices into a living piece of art. Not only that, those participating will receive a goodie bag filled with products and vouchers from local brands, spotlighting attention to other home-grown brands.
So Much Trouble Pop-Up | THAT Concept Store, Mall of the Emirates
For those who are fans of vintage fashion, rare finds, and cult designers, don’t forget to stop by THAT Concept Store this weekend because vintage designer boutique So Much Trouble will be hosting an exclusive pop-up showcasing its signature rare finds at the heart of Mall of the Emirates. Expect to find a curated edit of over 50 pieces spanning handbags, archival ready-to-wear, statement jewellery, alongside rare runway finds. There will also be a display of cult-favourite contemporary labels as well as So Much Trouble’s newly launched scarf line, to help those discover a newer side to fashion. And finally, the brand will also be presenting a limited edition capsule collection called So Much Trouble x Oceanus. Curated for those looking for statement pieces to be remembered by, the collection will feature dresses and sets that fulfil that desire.
To Watch
The Sheep Detectives
Starring Hugh Jackman, Nicholas Galitzine, and Nicholas Braun, The Sheep Detectives is a witty, absurdist comedy that follows the story of sheep becoming detectives to investigate a mystery that disrupts their farm. It’s goofy and wry and makes for a fun, family-friendly movie night.
Sirat | Cinema Akil, Alserkal Avenue
A Spanish drama-adventure film, Sirat follows the story of a father who is searching for his missing daughter along with his son and a group of ravers in the deserts of Southern Morocco. Paired with an incredible soundtrack and stunning cinematography, the film is a slow burn that showcases the range from grief to hope and sticks with you long after it’s over.
