While the buzz of the FIFA World Cup 2026 keeps the city going, the summer heat beginning might just be the push we need to slow down. Newer experiences, restaurants, and movies keep the spark for exploration alive, but these sunny days mean we’re weekending indoors at a slower pace, taking a breather from the week’s momentum.
To Shop
ZHIVAGO
With summer soirees to style for, ZHIVAGO brings glamorous dressing in modest cuts. Their gowns go from heavy embellishments that grab the spotlight to subtle sequinned pieces that gleam, while their separates range from quirky patterns to bold colours to flared silhouettes. And what we love most about their designs is the accented shoulder, adding an element of power dressing to party dressing.
L’alingi
Surrealist and sculptural, L’alingi blurs the line between handbag, jewellery, and artwork by incorporating all three. Recently collaborating with Lebanese jewellery brand L’Atelier Nawbar, the line got even more blurry as clutches carried Nawbar’s signature motifs alongside L’alingi’s design language. If your wardrobe is in dire need of a statement bag, L’alingi’s collection offers plenty of options.
To Dine
riina
For those looking to savour the weekend in a slow way, riina, located in Meadows Village and Tilal Al Ghaf, brings simple Mediterranean flavours alongside its bright, pastel space. With plenty of sun to soak in and plates that go from a simple breakfast to hearty mains, riina is a spot where you can get the ideal slow morning or a laid-back afternoon that stretches into a cosy evening. And that’s not all! Recently launching mandariina, a retail corner to grab all the details that make riina unique, it’s an additional touch that leaves the community to grab a piece of the concept to take home. The collection ranges from small-batch jams, spreads, and bites to tote bags and tumblers that carry thoughtful design details of the cafe.
Le Trottoir de Paloma | 25 Jump Street
A few short minutes away from the Museum of the Future, Le Trottoir de Paloma brings a charming Parisian charm with its bistro. During the day, the soft interiors and flavourful plates stretch the time while at night, a social atmosphere and alfresco dining help to escape the Dubai heat. Whether entering in with a group, with a date, or rocking solo, Le Trottoir de Paloma makes room for everyone, with freshly brewed coffee, cold cuts, fresh seafood, savoury mains, and indulgent French desserts to go.
To Experience
Chai pe Charcha | Batliwala & Co. Business Bay
Running from Monday to Friday from 3 – 6 PM, Batliwala & Co. brings a treasured South Asian practice back to the forefront. Called the Chai pe Charcha, the experience is designed to reconnect away from screens and with a steaming cup of chai. Popular among Bombay’s Irani cafes, the cultural practice includes conversations over flaky pastries and savoury Indian snacks. So expect steaming pours of Bombay Cutting Chai, Irani Chai, and Suleimani Chai with a side dish of Aloo Patties, Chicken Puffs, Mutton Mince Rolls, Vada Pav, Akuri Toast, Kheema Pav Sliders, and of course, Bun Maska.
‘In Plain Sight’ by Alia Zaal | Gallery Isabelle, Alserkal Avenue
Dubai-born painter Alia Zaal explores Gulf landscapes with her works, showcasing how we inhabit and perceive space with each brushstroke through her first solo exhibition titled ‘In Plain Sight’. The compositions range from urban settings to the signature desert sandscapes, all reimagined with broader experimentation with ceramics, silk, and other materials, encompassing a deeper look into how we live and feel the Gulf.
Kayali Cafe | Dubai Mall
For those in the know, the Kayali Cafe has been a consistently loved pop-up from the brand. So now, as they come to the Dubai Mall for yet another exclusive pop-up, fans can get their Kayali fix alongside their fragrance-inspired menu, and maybe a chat with Mona Kattan herself! Running until June 29, expect fresh brews, a bling station for your bottle, and all the delicious scents Kayali is known for.
To Watch
Ezma
Directed and written by Mohamed Sadeq, Ezma is a romantic drama following the story of a man who receives a mystery birthday gift that pushes him to try new experiences, reexamine his past, and contemplate his current life. A cosy weekend watch with thought-provoking themes, Ezma is a film that quietly sticks with you.
Normal
A neo-Western thriller that follows a small-town sheriff who uncovers a dark secret following a local bank robbery, Normal is a dark comedy full of action. With nonstop chaos that teeters on satirical, Normal is a fun weekend watch for the days you’re looking to ride on adrenaline.
