After the traffic fiasco that happened all over the city this week, chances are, no one might be interested in going out for the weekend. But we’re here to change your mind with heartfelt screenings, wholesome brunches, and dining spots worth the drive. Read on below for the full list.
To Shop
Suwen
Starting the season with three new collections, Turkish intimates brand Suwen pairs modern silhouettes with soft fabrics and romantic details. The collections—named Scarlet, Clara and Floral—refine the best of contemporary femininity. Scarlet is set with tulle fabrics, floral lace, and pinks; Clara is a powder-toned edit; and Floral is all in its name with floral patterns and a pastel palette. Going from pyjama sets to loungewear, all three collections work in tandem with one another to make the Suwen woman feel her most confident, refined self.
TAKARA
With the mood turning darker and the weather colder, TAKARA’s collection of jacket abayas, earthy colour palette, and statement pieces feel more relevant than ever. The Dubai-based label centres its pieces on structured tailoring, subtle patterns, and accents inspired by Japanese traditional wear. And working across structured wools, velvets, textured tweeds, jacquards, and custom blends, TAKARA’s collection can carry you from the office to Friday night dinner with ease.
To Dine
ZEA Garden | Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC
Reopening its doors this weekend, ZEA Garden brings alfresco dining back with uninterrupted Burj Khalifa views and a dedicated terrace menu, going above and beyond in its new chapter. Whether the weekend calls for a late lunch, a golden sundowner, or those long nights where time flies, ZEA Garden keeps the mood upbeat and the table stacked with its Mediterranean foundations and Latin American and Peruvian accents. Don’t forget to end the visit with their refreshing Lemon & Yuzu Sorbet!
Ninive | Emirates Towers
Another reopened eatery, Ninive is a comforting address, celebrating the culinary and cultural heritage of the Middle East and North Africa as a contemporary urban majlis. With Bedouin-inspired architecture, lush greenery, and of course, Dubai’s iconic skyline, guests can take in the open-air setting alongside contemporary regional flavours.
LPM Dubai | Gate Village, DIFC
Starting the weekend on the right foot is LPM Dubai and their recently released Le Cinq à Sept menu. Translated to 5 to 7, the menu takes from European life, enjoying an early evening ritual before heading home. Inspired by the unhurried rhythm of the French Riviera, it gives you exactly what you need to start a Friday night after work—warm lighting, soft music, bites to snack on, and refreshing drinks that complement them.
Stomping Grounds | Jumeirah 1
Aussie cafes are rarely just a grab-and-go. Especially Stomping Grounds tucked in a Jumeirah neighbourhood. A slow morning, a girls’ date, or an evening spent spread across coffee and books, the rustic cafe sets the tone for all. The menu is equally accommodating, ranging from traditional benedicts and pastas to experimental, limited-edition dishes. And for those not feeling particularly hungry, come for the speciality coffee, which boasts a cult following all on its own.
To Experience
McGettigan’s Bla Bla x Al Jalila Foundation Pinktober Brunch | The Beach, JBR
Officially beginning Pinktober, Bla Bla by McGettigan’s has teamed up with Al Jalila Foundation, putting together the Pinktober Brunch. Starting at Dhs 299, the brunch comes with Bla Bla’s signatures, unlimited drinks, and live music that keeps the energy high. And with each brunch, Dhs 100 is donated to Al Jalila Foundation in support of breast cancer awareness, making Brunch With a Cause a newfound weekend activity.
Signor Sassi’s Evviva Brunch | The St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah
For those looking to spend the day in a mix of comfort and liveliness, Signor Sassi threads the two with its latest Evviva Brunch – Tuscany Edition. Held every Saturday from 1 to 4 PM, the restaurant turns its space into a regional harvest celebration centred on the spirit of a traditional Tuscan gathering. The resident DJ and live singer keep the momentum going while the table is set with Tuscan favourites—antipasti such as Crostini con Fegatini di Pollo and Carpaccio di Manzo elevated with Tuscan pecorino and fresh truffle before moving into mains such as Peposo di Manzo, a slow-braised beef cooked with garlic and black pepper or the Risotto ai Frutti di Mare finished with aromatic oil and lemon. Dessert comes with a chestnut-infused Tiramisu alla Castagna and artisanal gelato paired with traditional almond Cantucci biscuits, bringing a sweet, decadent finish to the gastronomic excursion.
To Watch
The Love Hypothesis | Prime Video
Adapted from the novel of the same name, The Love Hypothesis is a cheesy rom-com filled with every trope you can think of—fake dating, awkward first encounter, and a brooding, mysterious male lead. Despite that, the film hits every trope-y note with finesse, turning the rom-com into a fun, weekend watch.
Charlie Harper
Another romance for the weekend, Charlie Harper is a modern love story that explores the tension between love, ambition, identity, and personal growth. Following the lives of Charlie and Harper, the film explores the relationship of two people who are deeply connected yet find themselves growing in different directions. With beautiful cinematic shots and incredible performances by the main leads, Charlie Harper is sweet, tender, and worth packing some tissues.
