As the week’s stress melts away the moment Friday arrives, the activations and launches all steadily pop up. So, to keep busy this weekend, we have rounded up the spots for summer shopping, the restaurants for laid-back dining, the films that make for whole weekend watches, and the experiences designed to reset your body and mind for the next week.
To Shop
ASHAALIA
Inspired by the founder’s South Asian roots, ASHAALIA blends the South Asian practice of karigari with European couture. Hence, you can find dresses, coats, and even abayas all intricately beaded, featuring exactly the kind of understated glamour we look for in summer dressing.
NS by NOOF
Established by Bahrani designer, Noof Al Shekar, NS by NOOF combines Shekar’s love for art, design, jewellery, and craft. And while they boast an impressive jewellery collection, it is the bags we love. Inspired by the spirit of architecture and the art of jewellery, the pieces feature stunning geometric design embellished with a kaleidoscope of semiprecious crystals and gemstones.
To Dine
At.mosphere | Burj Khalifa
For those looking to start their weekend nights at an elevated pace, how about a trip to Burj Khalifa? Perched on their 122 floor is At.mosphere, which captures Dubai life in a spectacular view. On the table is their three-course menu, priced at Dhs 250 per person and filled with crowd-pleasers that stick the landing with indulgence.
The MAINE Beach House | Palm Jumeirah
While it is too humid for al fresco dining, there is nothing wrong with enjoying beachfront dining. At The MAINE’s latest outpost, expect light interiors, plenty of natural light, and coastal dining. While there is an option to dine by the sand, you can enjoy a lobster roll or a clam linguine by the AC alongside refreshing drinks.
Zenon | Kempinski Central Avenue, Downtown Dubai
For those looking to settle out of the week’s stress, Zenon’s new concept, Mythos Twilight Dining, helps to stimulate the process even faster. Priced at Dhs 245 per person, the ritual begins during golden hour, where guests are introduced to a three-course Mediterranean menu paired with the space’s technological visuals. Come for the avant-garde designs, stay for the flavours, and linger on as the night passes because, after all, it is the weekend.
To Experience
New Balance x Common Grounds Summer Series | Dubai Hills Mall
Mallathons have become Dubai’s latest adjustment to the humid weather. With a range of malls allowing for runners to get their daily exercise in, things are slightly different at Dubai Hills Mall. Launching an activation with New Balance and Common Grounds, participants are set to meet at the New Balance store at 6:15 AM before setting off. After the run, the first 100 participants can enjoy a complimentary recovery breakfast at Common Grounds, from 7 – 9 AM. The breakfast will include high-protein dishes, fresh juices, and electrolytes to keep the energy going throughout the day.
Talise Spa | Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
If your weekend agenda has a self-care day on it, then make the trip to Talise Spa at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Featuring recovery treatments, signature massages, a hammam, bespoke facials, and more, you can take your pick from LED rooms to a gentle lymphatic drainage treatment.
To Watch
La Grazia | Cinema Akil
An Italian drama, the film follows a fictional Catholic Italian president conflicted about the pending approval of euthanasia in the country, while also navigating personal crossroads. An exploration into fatherhood, love, duty, and moral dilemmas, this film is an intriguing, thought-provoking watch.
A Sad and Beautiful World | Cinema Akil
Co-written and directed by Cyril Aris, A Sad and Beautiful World is a heartfelt rom-com set in Beirut. The film follows childhood sweethearts who reunite in their 20s against the backdrop of political turmoil and social collapse in present-day Lebanon. An intimate look at the personal within the societal, this film is an engaging watch.
