PLUS
GREAT MATE DATES STACKED EVENTS GUIDE ZERO-DIRHAM FITNESS
UAE DHS15
10 AUTUMN , UAE E RATED ADVENTU H T RES ACROSS FRO M GENTLE TO GRUELLING
BEST NIGHTS OUT BAR OF THE YEAR, NIGHTCLUB OF THE YEAR, NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR AND EVERY OTHER WINNER FROM THE WHAT'S ON NIGHTLIFE AWARDS 2026
11-31
23-15
ABU DHABI COMEDY SEASON
PUBLIC ART ABU DHABI BIENNIAL Al Ain
OCT
OCT
JAN
Etihad Arena
FEB
Abu Dhabi
13-14 NOV
BREDx
19-22 NOV
Etihad Live
FRIEZE ABU DHABI
Manarat Al Saadiyat
9-3
DEC
JAN
15-30 JAN
AL HOSN FESTIVAL
Al Hosn Site
MOTN FESTIVAL
Abu Dhabi Corniche
visitabudhabi.ae/events
CONTENTS
THRILL OR CHILL? P08 We’ve compiled a list of our favourite UAE alfresco adventures ranging from the soothingly mild to the really willd.
14 JUST GOOD FRIENDS
14
Great nights out with your mates are important. Here’s where to take old friends and win new ones.
22 MACARON MAESTRO In pursuit of patisserie perfection: Why Chef Pierre Hermé is the filling Abu Dhabi has been waiting for.
22
Page 24
Rhythms of the night Winners and party pics from the What’s On Nightlife Awards.
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 3
Cover:
Sheila Deocareza
Stay in touch
43 39
WhatsOn.ae Our website is packed with news, restaurants, culture, shopping, sport and spas. It’s your online destination for stuff to do in the UAE. Get clicking.
42
CONSUME 40 CAPITAL EATS New to Abu Dhabi’s dining scene, Opaia promises prime pan-Med dishes, but does it deliver?
66
41 CAFÉ CULTURE Emirati coffee phenomenon, Trio returns to its Jumeirah roots with a bigger space and grand ambitions.
55
56 47
CULTURE 48 PLANNER IN THE WORKS
48 4 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Find us on social
Your guide to all the incredible, unmissable events in the UAE this month. From last laughs to final curtains, DJ sets to classical concerts. If it’s on, it’s in here.
61
TRAVEL 62 LEFT ON RED What to expect when you check-in to the Red Sea’s ultra all-inclusive Rixos Murjana.
66 LOCKED IN The What’s On takeover of InterContinental Abu Dhabi.
Photo credit: Getty Images, Unsplash and supplied
New pizzeria Bonci enters the Dubai Gladitorial arena. Does its pizza al taglio get the thumbs up or thumbs down?
JLT’s Noren is the passion project from two ex-Zuma cheffing superstars on a mission to make Japanese food accessible again.
How the 30 x 30 of the Dubai Fitness Challenge can help you shed the pounds, without having to drop any dirhams.
ACTIVE
42 SQUARE MEALS
43 TOKYO GIFT
56 FIT FOR FREE
What’s On Digital Your essential guide to what’s happening in Dubai is also available on the App Store.
WhatsOnDubai
FIND US HERE
800 472 29 wƊǶǶ ȌǏ ɈǘƵ 0ǿǦȲƊɈƵȺ ةJȲȌɐȁƮ IǶȌȌȲ RƊȲɨƵɯ yǦƧǘȌǶȺ ƊȁƮ ÀR À ƧȌȁƧƵȯɈ ȺɈȌȲƵ ƵȁɈȲƊȁƧƵ ׂׄشׇ
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne GROUP CONTENT DIRECTOR Thomas Woodgate thomas.woodgate@motivate.ae
EDITORIAL
COMMERCIAL
ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES EDITOR Aarti Saundalkar
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR, DUBAI & NORTHERN EMIRATES Violeta Popescu
SENIOR REPORTER, ABU DHABI Shantelle Nagarajan SENIOR ONLINE REPORTER Jumira Hancock REPORTER Lana Du SOCIAL MEDIA EXECUTIVE Steffi Sebastian ONLINE REPORTER Afrah Bari ONLINE REPORTER Rasha Hassan
violeta.popescu@motivate.ae
SENIOR SALES MANAGER Pamela Bayram pamela.bayram@motivate.ae
SENIOR SALES MANAGER, ABU DHABI Nitika Sharma nitika.sharma@motivate.ae
SALES MANAGER, ABU DHABI Lina Abdelaziz lina.abdelaziz@motivate.ae
SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE Ali Mohammad ali.mohammad@motivate.ae
JUNIOR REPORTER Shifali Jain CONTRIBUTORS Alice Holtham-Pargin, Laura Coughlin, Miles Buckeridge, Sammi Barnard, Vaarunya Bhalla
PRODUCTION GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran
DESIGN
ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Venita Pinto
ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza
WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi
CREATIVE STUDIO CONTENT PRODUCTION MANAGER Surajit Dutta CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Mark Mathew CONTENT PRODUCER/STUDIO MANAGER John Melencion
WHATSON.AE | WHATSONSAUDIARABIA.COM | WHATSONSAUDIARABIA.COM/AR
Annual Subscription UAE Dhs180 • GCC and International US$130 (inclusive of postal charges) Head Office: Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel +971 4 427 3000 Dubai Media City: SD 2-94, 2nd Floor, Building 2, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae Saudi Arabia: Regus Offices No. 455 - 456, 4th Floor, Hamad Tower, King Fahad Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, KSA, Tel: +966 11 834 3595 / +966 11 834 3596, Email: motivate@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, Email: motivateuk@motivate.ae
6 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
WELCOME
WHAT A NIGHT
I
t is the morning after the night before as I sit down to write this welcome note, with the team busily putting the finishing touches to this issue, and our extensive coverage across social. If you haven’t already, go check it out @whatsondubai. I’m feeling proud of how the What’s On Nightlife Awards 2026 transpired at Bohemia Beach Club, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, so I have to start by paying huge props to the What’s On team, and the wider Motivate Media Group teams, for what they achieved. I lost count of the well wishes we received from the industry that night, so thank you to everyone who attended and congratulations to everyone who went home with a shiny trophy. If you’ll indulge me further, it’s nights like these that remind us why we do what we do, and just how well received it continues to be. Nothing stands still for long, though, which brings me nicely to this issue. Alongside a 14-page special celebrating all the winners and action from the Nightlife Awards, we’re looking ahead to another big month. If December is usually the race to the finish, November seems determined to get the craziness started early. Our big November line-up alone runs from theatre and comedy to live music and some seriously loud nights out. There’s plenty to keep the calendar full before December has even started. And then there’s Formula 1. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix runs from December 3 to 6, with the racing joined by Lewis Capaldi, Kings of Leon, Jennifer Lopez, Imagine Dragons, The Script and The Chainsmokers. Yes, I know this is November, but when the event is that big, preparation starts NOW. You’re welcome. One of my favourite pieces this issue is a little less glamorous. Great Mate Nights is our argument for doing something different with your friends: drift karting, crazy golf, climbing, karaoke, improv, tufting and plenty more. Frankly, any feature containing the phrase “swap the hangover for overhangs” is music to my ears. It even prompted me to message a good friend I’ve not seen in a while, so I’m sure it will resonate with you, too. And while much of the world retreats indoors, this is when we should be doing the opposite. Our Mild to Wild guide rounds up 10 UAE outdoor adventures, from hot-air ballooning and cycling to white-water rafting and a 24-hour survival course on Jebel Jais. I know which end of that scale I’ll be sticking to. Enjoy the issue.
TEAM’S POV
We answer the questions you didn’t even ask.
What’s one thing you’re determined to do before 2026 is over? Aarti Saundalkar Arts & Culture Features Editor “Finally kickstart my plans to launch my own Formula 1-focused Instagram page, combining my passion for motorsport with my love for storytelling. It’s an idea I’ve been sitting on for far too long, and I’d love to start laying the groundwork to make it a reality.”
Shantelle Nagarajan Senior Reporter, Abu Dhabi “Make it to the paddock at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026. A bit ambitious for sure, but I can’t wait for race weekend season in the capital.”
THOMAS WOODGATE GROUP CONTENT DIRECTOR
HAVE YOUR SAY AGAIN! No sooner are we basking in the glow of the Nightlife Awards, voting is now OPEN for the What’s On Dubai Awards 2027 and the What’s On Abu Dhabi Awards 2027. Once again, we’re shining a light on all of the categories and areas that make these cities tick and you have the power to ensure your favourite is crowned. Head to whatson. ae/events/awards to have your say.
Shifali Jain Junior Reporter “Before the year ends, I want to explore more hidden gems and experience all of the coolest things the city has to offer – lucky I’m in the best place to do it!”
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 7
M I L D TO W I L D
est ’s b re n o i sa r eg e r path mme ss h t u f le ne e o cyc in s wild n e o o , new abl our nue nt s i k up think on a ve ver r. n d e tur bac un ate here hat p fo AE ing were t is r e. W So w ing u IN L U o at H is cor ty. he e g ign sl UG s, t ts ar ils th thi ard ctivi ’re s p CO o en on ly h e a you tra dr RA re ds. T ing ture oper dlin hat AU u t n L k w ea e : pr ra un hi DS pe gro nd y adv t to its h actly R m a y a cts x r e O a e t l n e e W w sw fle r p tio Ev he s t doo r ac me. s-a- g re kno ild. t l k o n l a f g rea ati ou’ to w ou dy ir r b y rea ly fa rely- , the ter, mild f it, n ba l a e e ev d re dd su from ry l ou’ pen are ter, o eve mn y to s me ers t autu ways t ca d of e 10 kin re ar He
A
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
10 AUTUMN AE, U E RATED ADVENTU H RES ACROSS T FRO M GENTLE TO GRUELLING WILDNESS METER MILD
8 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
WILD
STAYOVER AT AL MAHA, A LUXURY COLLECTION DESERT RESORT & SPA
Al Maha
1. Soar above the dunes at sunrise Where: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve Drive from Dubai: Hotel pickup included Cost: From Dhs1,695 Best For: First-timers, early risers, special occasions If dune bashing is the desert’s loudest adventure, a hot air balloon ride is its quietest. Pre-dawn pickups take you out to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where you’ll watch your balloon slowly inflate before lifting off just as the sky turns gold. Flights typically run 45 minutes to an hour, drifting at up to 4,000ft over rippling dunes, grazing camels and, if you’re sharp-eyed, oryx and gazelle below. It’s about as gentle as adventure gets. There are no adrenaline spikes (save for a potential bumpy landing), just calm dawn air and a view most visitors never see. Most operators land you back down to a full Bedouin-style breakfast. @heroballoonsdubai
If you want to make your mild adventure more luxurious, might we suggest a night before your flight at Al Maha, also within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve? It has long been a benchmark for desert resorts in the region. Each traditional yet beautifully appointed suite is completely private and comes with its own temperature-controlled pool overlooking the dunes. Full board and two desert-based activities per night are typically included in the room rate, and what’s better than an early morning balloon ride? Don’t be surprised if a wild Arabian oryx wanders up to drink from your pool. The entry-level Bedouin Suite starts from Dhs4,800 a night. @almaha_resort
2. Ride Dubai’s newest cycle routes
STOPOVER FOR COFFEE AT SKINNY GENIE Just off the new cycle bridge over Sheikh Skinny Genie Zayed Road, on Abdullah Omran Taryam St, you’ll find a tiny healthy café called Skinny Genie. It’s one of the very few gluten-free bakeries in the city, with excellent coffee and service. Consider fuelling up here before heading onto the Beach Road cycle path. @skinnygenie
Where: Dubai Hills to Al Sufouh and Beach Road Drive From Dubai: In the city Cost: Free Best For: Casual riders, families, long weekend loops Dubai’s cycling network keeps growing under Dubai Cycle City 2040, the RTA’s plan to make the city the world’s most bike-friendly by that year. The newest addition is a 13.5km track linking Dubai Hills to Al Sufouh. It is completed by a striking new cycling bridge over Sheikh Zayed Road near Dubai Internet City Metro Station, connecting coastal areas directly inland toward Dubai Hills. With the route now fully open, riders can link up with existing paths for serious distance, through Internet City and onto Beach Road (King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street). From there it’s a choice. Head east toward Jumeirah, past Burj Al Arab, Kite Beach and the Dubai Canal, or west into the Marina for an urban loop past the skyline. @rta_dubai
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 9
M I L D TO W I L D
3. Snorkel around Snoopy Island
Sandy Beach Resort
STAYOVER AT SANDY BEACH HOTEL & RESORT Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Hajar Mountains in Al Aqah, the beloved Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort sits directly opposite Snoopy Island, with its own dive centre right on the beach. Rooms range from oceanfront and islandview to garden chalets tucked into lush grounds, suited to couples, families or solo explorers alike. Guests can book full-day or overnight diving trips, relax by the temperature-controlled pool or wind down at the rooftop panoramic bar. It’s roughly 1.5 hours from Dubai, close enough for a weekend and far enough to properly switch off. Studio apartments start from Dhs745 a night. @sandybeachresort
Where: Al Aqah, Fujairah Drive From Dubai: Around 1.5 hours Cost: From Dhs175 Best For: Beginner snorkellers, certified divers, families Fujairah’s most iconic rock formation is one of the best snorkel and dive sites in the UAE. Named for its uncanny resemblance to the cartoon pup, Snoopy Island sits just a short swim from Sandy Beach Hotel’s shoreline. Its shallow reef begins at barely a metre or two deep before sloping into moderate depths around the perimeter. That makes it forgiving for first-timers floating on the surface, while the deeper, seaward side offers enough structure to keep experienced divers interested. Expect colourful coral, darting triggerfish and angelfish and, if you’re lucky, a passing turtle. Go it alone with a mask and fins from the beach, or level up with a guided PADI trip, a night dive or a kayak paddle out for those who’d rather not swim the distance. @alboomdining
STAYOVER AT BAB AL NOJOUM
4. Get active on Hudayriyat Island Where: Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi Drive from Dubai: Around 1 hour, 20 minutes Cost: Free entry, with activities charged separately Best For: Mixed-ability groups, families, sunset runners Abu Dhabi’s 3,000-hectare leisure island keeps growing its adventure credentials. The cycling loops and stand-up paddleboarding off the island’s 600m-plus beachfront are the easy way in. For more vertical thrills, Circuit X has BMX and skate parks, plus a ropes course with obstacles, a 100m zipline and a 50ft climbing wall. Serious sailors can head further out on the water, while 321 Sports covers basketball, football and tennis for anyone who’d rather stay on solid ground. Prefer to just watch the sunset? The Heritage Trail’s 5.5km waterfront boardwalk makes for an easy, scenic walk or run at golden hour. Whatever your pace, it’s all free to enter and a short drive from central Abu Dhabi.
10 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Bab Al Nojoum has moved well beyond its original glamping tents and camper vans. The resort now has 31 villas. There are 17 ocean-view units with private plunge pools and landscaped gardens, plus 14 Maldivian-inspired overwater villas reached via a snaking wooden pier, each with its own terrace, pool and uninterrupted views across the Arabian Gulf. Whichever you choose, you’re steps from the beach and the island’s sports facilities. Dining spans contemporary fine dining at Akawa and relaxed beachside plates at 25 Minutes to Tulum, plus experiences like floating breakfasts and starlit beach barbecues. It’s an easy way to turn a day of activity on Hudayriyat into a proper overnight escape. Beach villas start from Dhs3,500 a night and overwater villas from Dhs4,000. @babalnojoum_hudayriyat
NEW STAYOVER AT CARAVAN HATTA BY OUR HABITAS
Hatta Drop In
Caravan Hatta
Hatta Zipline
5. Visit Dubai’s adventure town
Caravan Hatta
Where: Hatta, Dubai Drive from Dubai: Around 1 hour, 40 minutes Cost: Free entry, with activities charged separately Best For: Mountain bikers, active families, weekenders A leisurely drive through the Hajar Mountains brings you to Hatta, Dubai’s outdoor adventure hub, with turquoise waters and trails for every fitness level. The headline act is mountain biking. Hire a bike at the Wadi Hub and pick from four colour-coded trails, from easy green loops to expert-only black runs. Before or after, rent a pedalo or take a gentle kayak paddle across Hatta Dam. If you’d rather stay on foot, a 10km hike past Hatta Heritage Village takes in the same dam and mountain scenery as the bike trails at a slower pace. The Hub itself offers zorbing, axe throwing and ziplines for anyone wanting to mix things up. visithatta.com
Caravan Hatta by Our Habitas is the UAE’s newest mountain escape, landing firmly in Dubai’s adventure heartland. The eco-hospitality brand’s UAE debut brings 50 bespoke Airstream caravans overlooking Hatta Dam, split into 13 Ridge Caravans and 37 Peak Caravans. Each is fitted with a queen bed, dinette, private bathroom, Wi-Fi and air conditioning, plus a wooden deck for taking in the valley or lake views. Interiors lean into sand, terracotta and clay tones, with woven rattan, raw wood and bespoke bathroom amenities from homegrown UAE brand Dastaangoi. The resort’s infinity pool doubles as its social heart, best enjoyed with poolside dining from Madar, the property’s open-fire, Emirati-inspired restaurant. Rates from Dhs1,200 a night. @habitatascaravanhatta
6. Hike around Wadi Shawka Where: Wadi Shawka, Ras Al Khaimah Drive From Dubai: Around one hour Cost: Free Best For: First-time hikers, early starters, dog walkers If you’re new to hiking in the UAE, or to hiking in general, ardent hill walkers typically point first-timers toward Wadi Shawka. It sits in the Hajar Mountains off the Kadra road in Ras Al Khaimah, roughly an hour’s drive from Dubai. The main entry point near Shawka Dam is well signposted from the main road, with ample parking close by. Most hikers tackle the hard part first: a 700-step cemented staircase near the dam. It’s steep and relentless, but it’s over quickly, and the reward at the top is a sweeping panorama of the dam, the wadi floor and the ridgelines rolling away toward the mountains. From there, marked paths loop back down around the reservoir, so you can stretch the walk to fit however much energy you have left. Start early. Even in autumn the sun gets strong by late morning, and the stairs have no shade. Bring more water than you think you’ll need, wear shoes with decent grip for the loose rocks on the descent and save the picnic for the dam at the end. visitrasalkhaimah.com
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 11
M I L D TO W I L D STAYOVER AT AL FAYA RETREAT
7. Take the wheel in Mleiha Where: Mleiha National Park, Sharjah Al Faya Drive from Dubai: Around one hour Retreat Cost: From Dhs1,200 Best For: Couples, small groups, drivers who want control Skip the crowded desert convoy. At Mleiha National Park in Sharjah, Zerzura Experiences has just reopened its dune-buggy season. Its self-drive buggies offer a more intimate, guided way to explore the desert than the usual camp-and-crowd format. You’re behind the wheel, so the intensity is yours to dial: a steady cruise through Mleiha’s dunes, or something with a bit more bite. Afterwards, sit down to dinner at Zerzura, a four-course, heritage-inspired menu. Couples can go further with a fully private experience that includes private pickup, a private buggy tour, a visit to the archaeological museum and a premium dinner for two. @zerzuraexperiences
Also within Mleiha National Park, Al Faya Retreat sits beside the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Faya site. The retreat, part of Shurooq’s Sharjah Collection, is midexpansion, growing from five rooms to 20 private accommodation units by the end of the year. The 15 new units will be positioned individually across the terrain to protect privacy and preserve views. The original five guestrooms, housed in restored 1960s buildings, will become dedicated spa and wellness spaces. It’s an unusual desert stay, built around archaeological sites, natural rock formations and some of the region’s clearest night skies. The retreat is set to reopen at the end of this month. Room rates are yet to be announced. @alfayaretreat
8. Mountain bike through Mushrif Park
Café Peloto
STOPOVER FOR COFFEE AT CAFÉ PELOTON Located in Mushrif Park, Café Peloton is a favourite starting and finishing point for mountain bikers. It has a lovely outdoor seating area, perfect for post-ride smoothies, coffee, açaí bowls and banana bread. You can also hire bikes on-site through Breakaway by Café Peloton. @cafepelotonae
12 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Where: Mushrif National Park, Dubai Drive From Dubai: In the city Cost: Park entry is Dhs3, bike rental from Dhs70 Best For: Intermediate to skilled mountain bikers The closest thing Dubai has to a forest hides one of the city’s most surprising rides. Mushrif National Park’s mountain bike track was the country’s first of its kind, and it has since grown into a 50km network weaving through 70,000 trees and native UAE flora. The route to aim for is the 30km red trail, a tougher run of climbs, drops and technical sections for skilled riders. If you’re not there yet, a 20km green and blue section caters to beginners and intermediates. A new 102-metre bridge, opened in August, now carries the trail’s mountain bike lane over what was previously a road crossing. It connects two sections of the route into one continuous 182-metre ride and keeps cyclists separated from pedestrians on their own dedicated path. Start and finish at Mushrif Hub near the main gate, where quick-return lanes let you bail early if the red route’s climbs prove too much. Bike hire is available at Edge Cycling & Adventure Shop. @edge.cycling
9. Ride the rapids in the desert
STOPOVER FOR LUNCH AT EM SHERIF DELI All that adrenaline will leave you knackered, so refuel at the new Em Sherif Deli. It has just opened at Al Mutarid Lifestyle Centre, its first move beyond Dubai. Expect the same Beirut warmth and generous tables, now with a young, contemporary spin, in a relaxed 50-seat space of blonde wood and earthy tones. The menu keeps to Lebanese classics, including shawarma, mezze, sandwiches and homemade desserts. @emsherifdeli.ae
Em Sherif Deli
Where: Al Ain Adventure, Jebel Hafit, Al Ain Drive From Dubai: Around 1 hour, 50 minutes Cost: Adventure passes from Dhs175 Best For: Adrenaline seekers, groups, surfers Al Ain Adventure is home to the Middle East’s first man-made white-water rafting channels, stretching 1.1km at the foot of Jebel Hafit. Resident instructors guide you through three levels of rapids, so the ride builds as you go, from a lively warm-up to proper white water that will test your paddling. The park also has waves. Abu Dhabi’s original surf pool serves up everything from small rolling waves for beginners to three-metre barrels for pros, with semi-private lessons available. Round out the day with cable boarding across the wake park, or take on the rapids solo in a white-water kayak. alainadventure.com
STAYOVER AT BEAR GRYLLS EXPLORERS CAMP
10. Learn to survive at Bear Grylls Explorers Camp Bear Grylls
Where: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah Drive from Dubai: Around 1 hour, 50 minutes Cost: Courses from Dhs350 per person Best For: The properly committed, team challenges Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is the region’s only dedicated outdoor survival school. Recently reopened after a summer-long hiatus, it offers courses ranging from a beginner-friendly half-day covering fire-starting and shelter-building to the one that earns this entry its rating. That is a gruelling 24-hour immersion testing navigation, trauma response and extreme-weather survival, led by UK-trained instructors. Beyond the survival courses, the site also offers via ferrata, rock climbing, abseiling, archery and a high ropes course, for those who want the adrenaline without the full endurance test.
For a few home comforts, the camp’s own cabins sit right on Jebel Jais. Each is a recycled, redesigned shipping container with a private outdoor terrace, BBQ and self-catering set-up. You can roll out of a survival course and straight into bed without leaving the mountain, and camp stores sell snacks and firewood for the night. @beargryllscamp
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 13
Dates with mates that aren’t just plates WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
14 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
G R E AT M AT E N I G H T S
M
ate nights are just as important as date nights. Your other half might argue with us, but it’s a claim backed by hard science. A 2013 University of Oxford Study found that individuals derive genuine health benefits from seeing their friends on an optimal ‘twice-a-week’ basis. And the venue can be just as important as the company you keep. So if you want something more than the casual banter over burrata, or shock tales over cocktails, we’ve got the compilation for you. We’re looking at gaming, golfing, karting, crafting, bowling, and camping, with the option for bites on the side. Buckle up buddies, these are the best mate nights out in town.
The crafty mate night
The Sweet Caroline-sy mate night Apparently the most picked karaoke song in the world. And look, eventually, every friendship group must confront the big questions, such as: who among us believes they can really own Mr Brightside? Replay Lounge & Karaoke exists to provide the disappointing answer. Sitting upstairs at Bla Bla, the JBR karaoke lounge has seven private rooms themed around musical icons and a library of more than 80,000 songs across 20-plus languages. Sessions currently cost Dhs55 per person for one hour, dropping to Dhs45 per hour if you commit to two or more. Replay, Bla Bla Dubai, JBR. From Dhs45 per person per hour. @replaydubai
Pick your colours, grab the tufting gun and make something gloriously kitsch via the medium of stitch. Tufting Time lets you and your crew design and create your own rugs from scratch, with staff on hand to stop any potential shaggy-rug stories. It’s hands-on, mildly chaotic and you will all be able to leave with an actual souvenir of the night. After all that ruffty-tufting, you’ve earned a Michelin-recognised burger – head to 11 Woodfire next door for a worldclass wagyu sandwich. Tufting Time, Jumeirah 1 and Dubai Festival City, from Dhs150. tuftingtime.com
The outdoorsy mate night
THE FRAMESY MATE NIGHT The latest in a long line of Dubai entertainment megaplexes, Kapitol is the newest addition to Dubai’s bowling scene, with 10 lanes, plus a VIP bowling area featuring private lanes with plush seating. This is the future of bowling – augmented gamification, lane animations, hype-building and a heap of sideshow attractions if the losing streak gets too much to cope with. There’s karaoke, mini golf, axe throwing, a virtual batting cage and a well-stocked bar. Mate plate of the venue? Get the sushi. Kapitol, Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR The Walk. @kapitolsocial
Challenging Adventure operates from a private wadi in Ras Al Khaimah’s Hajar Mountains, with adult overnight packages. Book bespoke trips with camping alongside proper outdoorsy pursuits including wilderness survival, rock climbing, archery, orienteering and trekking. Between activities, there’s a natural hot-spring pool, BBQ, campfire, marshmallows and an overnight under canvas, giving your mate who owns seventeen pieces of tactical camping equipment (and we guarantee one is a head torch) the opportunity to finally justify at least four of them. Challenging Adventure, Ras Al Khaimah, from Dhs400. @challengingadventure WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 15
G R E AT M AT E N I G H T S
The active mate night
The pew pewsy mate night Hyper Tag is somewhere between laser tag and VR. Inside its virtual arena, you and your mates can physically move through digitised battlefields, fight zombies, complete tactical missions and, naturally, shoot the camping, no-scoping, spawn-trap out of each other. Shhh, it’s a skill issue. Up to 16 players can get involved, with sessions lasting between 20 and 60 minutes. It is, essentially, all those years spent playing Call of Duty finally counting as preparation for something. Afterwards, eat at Alserkal’s Window, spam order the four-cheese and spicy honey flatbread (Dhs75). Hyper Tag, Active Games UAE, Al Quoz. From Dhs79. hypertag.ae
Bouldering is climbing, with no strings attached. Literally. And if you can’t wrestle a metaphor for true friendship out of that, we’re not doing the work for you. Rock Republic’s enormous indoor bouldering space has routes ranging from welcomingly doable to ‘designed by someone with a blood vendetta against forearms’. You climb relatively short walls over crash mats, meaning beginners can get involved without learning an encyclopaedia of knots first. The real joy, naturally, is standing safely on the ground offering completely useless climbing advice to your mates. Give it a try, swap the hangover for overhangs. Rock Republic, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dhs100. @rockrepublicdubai
The tap tap tapsy mate night The wonderful thing about crazy golf is, being good at actual golf is only a minor advantage. Swingers as a brand, teed off in London, finding a well above par new home in Dubai’s Bluewaters. The concept seems almost overqualified for nights out with the OG-Unit, offering three distinct nine-hole courses, and a scorecard rife with unmarked extras. DJs, cocktails and food spread across its two-floor Bluewaters home. It’s adults-only after 7pm too, allowing the trash talk to reach its natural, unsupervised conclusion. Swingers Crazy Golf, Bluewaters Island. Experiences from Dhs245. swingerscrazygolf.ae 16 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
THE DIY DINNERY MATE NIGHT This is a cooking class quite unlike any other in Dubai. It’s part authentic Italian ‘just like nonna used to make’ cookery class, and part wild ‘somebody cut nonna off the Aperol’ brunch vibes. The DIY supper club school runs every Sunday from 4pm, includes dinner (which you’ll make, so pay attention) and unlimited wine. There’s a different subject of study each week, so you could be trying your best on a tiramisu or knocking up some misshapen gnocchi. The important thing, like all good pasta dough, is the bonding. Felicità, Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai, every Sunday, Dhs420. @felicitadubai
The gamesy mate night Brass Monkey does some pretty inspiring work in the field of mate night alchemy. Within its collection of venues, it tinkers with the twin elements of 10-pin bowling and arcade machines, supporting the high score furore with appropriate snacking and drinking fodder. Co-op on pulled beef tacos under the gentle hum of neon, then head out into the arcade floor and make core memories. It’s the cheat code to bond building. Brass Monkey, C2, Bluewaters, and Motor City. @brassmonkeysocial
G R E AT M AT E N I G H T S
The “yes, and...” mate night The racy mate night Usually, losing grip on a corner is considered something of a driving whoopsie. Not so at No Grip, here it’s quite literally the point. This new Al Quoz arrival bills itself as the world’s first two-level indoor drift-karting track, with specially tuned karts and polished concrete designed to send you sideways. Do not repeat on the SZR afterwards. There are racing simulators and a pit-stop café too, but if you fancy something more substantial to feed your need for speed, Alserkal is just down the, ahem, avenue. Lila Molino’s table-sharing queso fundido will soothe even the most fragile egos. But remember friendship is temporary, lap times live forever. No Grip DXB, Al Quoz 3. From Dhs140. @nogrip.dxb
You’ve spent years telling each other you’re hilarious. You’ve joked about the potential legal ramifications of your hypothetically leaked group chat. Now it’s time to submit all that theory for peer review. Courtyard Playhouse’s Monthly Improv Mashup is a 90-minute dropin session open to complete beginners, running through games and exercises designed to get you thinking on your feet, committing to increasingly ridiculous scenarios and, ideally, making somebody laugh. November’s edition lands on Sunday November 8. Pre-joke-cracking snacks come in the form of a righteous grilled cheese (Dhs65) at neighbouring Courtyard cafe, Cassette. The Courtyard Playhouse, Al Quoz, Sunday November 8, Dhs200. 5pm to 6.30pm. @courtyardplayhouse
THE SWING AND A HITSY MATE NIGHT The funny mate night Sometimes the best mate date is just sitting in a dark room while strangers say inappropriate things into a microphone. Maybe just don’t start up a conversation midset if you’re in the front row. Pepperoni Comedy Club at 25 Jump Street hosts a rotating line-up of audience roasts, local comics and visiting acts, with food and drinks close at hand for when the material gets a little too relatable. Pizza will never call you names. Pepperoni Comedy Club, One Central. pepperonicomedyclub.ae
Golf is a famously relaxing pastime, provided you remove the weather, walking, dress code, other golfers, ball searching, allergies, hooking the ball, slicing the ball, approach play and most of the actual golf course. Five Iron deftly chips most of those trifling bunkers, pitching Trackman simulator bays with mini golf and games alongside the Dirty Birdie sports bar. You can play proper courses or considerably less serious things like Bullseye and Capture the Flag while somebody else keeps the refreshments coming. Current Sim After Dark sessions offer three hours of gameplay for Dhs349. Five Iron, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi. Sim After Dark Dhs349 for three hours. fiveirongolf.ae
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 17
SPORTING EVENTS
GREAT SPECTATIONS
There’s a stacked grid of live sport taking place this November, and the UAE has front row seats WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR AND MILES BUCKERIDGE
IT’S LIGHTS OUT IN ABU DHABI
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is about to get underway in the capital this December. Here’s everything you need to know.
F
ormula 1 fans, a weekend of racing is just around the corner with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix set to take place from December 3 to 6, 2026. It’s three days of pure adrenalinefueled racing action at the Yas Marina Circuit where 22 of the best drivers in the world compete to secure a spot on the podium. For those of you excited for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026, you may have purchased months ago. And for those of you still deciding your strategy, here’s why you may want to make a pit stop at the ticket counter. At the time of writing, the title of FIA Formula One World Championship for Constructors and FIA Formula One World Drivers’ Championship has not yet been decided. However, if the current form continues, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS could be on course to claim both titles, with Kimi Antonelli leading the Drivers’ Championship and teammate George Russell helping the team top the Constructors’ standings. But this is Formula 1, and anything can happen. Antonelli’s teammate George Russell could still snatch the championship title, or
18 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time World Champion from Team Scuderia Ferrari may just find an impressive amount of horsepower to make a lateseason comeback. If you’re keeping up with the ‘Kardashians of Formula 1’ every weekend, you know that a small driver’s error, a safety car, or a wrong pit strategy can change everything. For now, all we can do is sit back and watch as drama unfolds. Don’t plan on missing out on a second of the action, then here’s everything youn need to know about how to make the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix one of the best weekends of the year.
THE TRACK SCHEDULE Friday, December 4 Practice 1: 1.30pm Practice 2: 5pm Saturday, December 5 Practice 3: 2.30pm Qualifying: 6pm Sunday, December 6 Race: 5pm
TICKET BOX (BOX BOX...) Abu Dhabi Grand Prix tickets are currently still available for a starting price of Dhs745 for general admission. However, this mean you will be watching the race on screens at the Oasis Areas, but if you want to see the action live in front of you and feel the roar of the cars in your soul, tickets for the Grandstands start from Dhs2,395. Get your tickets only from official sources, including abudhabigp.com
Yasalam After-Race Concerts Post the sweat-inducing action on the track, fans can make their way to Etihad Live to catch the Yasalam After-Race Concerts. Wednesday, December 2
Andrea Bocelli (Yasalam Classics)
What’s in my Abu Dhabi Grand Prix bag ❏ Your Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 ticket ❏ Emirates ID ❏ Credit card and some cash ❏ Your phone (fully charged) ❏ Battery pack and cable (fully charged) ❏ Hat ❏ Sunscreen (or/and a UV protective jacket) ❏ Lip balm ❏ Sunglasses ❏ Small towel / tissues and sanitiser ❏ Empty water bottle ❏ Earplugs – great for the little ones ❏ Medication for the day Details on banned items including chairs, laser pointers, umbrellas etc can be found on abudhabigp.com
Okay, so Andrea Bocelli isn’t technically part of the Yasalam After-Race Concerts per say but he is the first to kick off the inaugural Yasalam Classics, which takes place right before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Italian tenor will perform at the Etihad Arena, and will be accompanied by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra. Your Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket won’t gain you access to see the world-renowned tenor, so you will need to purchase a separate ticket. Tickets start from Dhs295. etihadarena.ae Thursday, December 3
Lewis Capaldi and Kings of Leon Kicking off the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 weekend is Scottish cheeky chappie and emotional ballad king, Lewis Capaldi. Get ready to belt out his top hits during the night. He will be joined by alternative rock band Kings of Leon, who will be performing songs from their 10 album catalogue. Friday, December 4
Alex Warren and Jennifer Lopez
Two distinct vocalists take to the stage on Friday. First up is singer-songwriter Alex Warren, who makes his UAE debut. The man behind the hit song Ordinary, which has now been streamed over 2.2 billion times, will perform alongside Jennifer Lopez, no stranger to the UAE, with a catalogue of chart-topping hits like On The Floor, Let’s Get Loud and Jenny from the Block. Saturday, December 5
Imagine Dragons
GRAMMY Award-winning band Imagine Dragons, behind the hit singles, Radioactive, Demons, Believer, and Thunder will have the whole audience singing when they perform on December 5. Sunday, December 6
Plan like a pro • Arrive early to avoid the traffic and queues at the venue • Wear comfortable shoes and lightweight, breathable clothing – comfort is key • Download the Yas Marina circuit app and navigate like you live at the circuit
The Script and The Chainsmokers
• Plan transportation with mates and commute together • Know the race schedule like the back of your hand • Follow @abudhabigp on Instagram for all the latest official updates
Closing what we’re sure will be a phenomenal 2026 season, The Chainsmokers will make their debut in Abu Dhabi with hits such as Closer and Something Just Like This. The Script will also perform in Abu Dhabi for the first time, with anthems such as Hall of and The Man Who Scan the QR Code Can’t Be Moved. NOTE: You will need a ticket to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to catch the Yasalam After-Race Concerts.
for all the latest Abu Dhabi Grand Prix updates on whatson.ae
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 19
SPORTING EVENTS
Rory McIlroy
IT’S A TRI
Three great sport spectating events this November
T
here’s a trio of massive, international sporting events headed to the UAE this November, two of them involve little dimpled balls, the other is all about chasing egg-shaped ones. Across it all, you’ll find exemplary regional hospitality as standard, sporting icons, thrilling grass-top action, and various highly refined methods of moving the relevant ball closer to a flag. These are the most important sport spectating dates in the UAE this November.
20 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
01
Matt Fitzpatrick and Rory McIlroy
DP World Tour Championship, Dubai
Dates: Thursday November 12 to Sunday November 15 This is it, the big one, the DP World Tour Championship takes place on the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates bringing the Tour’s season – and the Race to Dubai – to its grand finale. Only the top 50 players remaining in the rankings make it this far, so you’re looking at one of the most concentrated fields of golfing talent you’ll see anywhere this year. McIlroy is confirmed for Dubai too, as he hunts that another historic title. In a T-worthy development, the other half of 2023’s ‘Teegate’ feud Patrick ‘Captain America’ Reed has also been announced for the chase. Away from the ropes and slippery slopes, Dubai’s own Championship Village brings its usual A-list of local food truck feeds, drinks, merchandise and live entertainment. Tickets: Thursday, November 12 general admission is completely free, although preregistration is required. After that, tickets currently start from Dhs55 on Friday, with Saturday and Sunday admission at Dhs130. Kids aged 17 and under can attend free across all four days. Hospitality options include the Earth Lounge beside the 16th green from Dhs890. europeantour.com
02
Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship
Dates: Thursday November 5 to Sunday November 8, 2026. The approach play for the season-ending DP World Tour Play-Offs all tees off at Yas Links this month. Freshly renamed the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, the tournament brings together the 70 of the world’s leading players in the ‘Race to Dubai’ rankings for four days and 72 holes of thrilling, swing for glory, golf. And there’s already one enormous name on the start sheet. Rory McIlroy has confirmed his Ror-ring return to Yas Links, with the Northern Irishman’s eyes fixed chasing a recordequalling eighth Race crown. And even if your knowledge of golf begins and ends somewhere amongst the transcript of the first Happy Gilmore movie, you won’t have to go a fairway to find something you’ll love at the event. The Championship Village is a verdant wonderland of enticing food and drink options, interactive golf challenges, big screens and daily entertainment, including live music and trick-shot shows, with themed Ladies Day and Family Day programming also on the schedule too. Tickets: General admission is free on Thursday November 5 and Friday November 6, although you’ll still need to register for a ticket. Saturday and Sunday tickets start from Dhs75. Premium access with hospitality credit starts at Dhs170. Tickets at europeantour.com
Aldar will be the title sponsors of the Abu Dhabi Championship
03
Emirates Dubai 7s
Dates: Friday 27 November to Sunday 29 November The Emirates Dubai 7s returns to its home stadium to open the HSBC SVNS Series 2027 for three days of sport, music and family-friendly festival fun. The highlight is of course the rugby, with the cream of men’s and women’s international 7s teams battling it out for high scoring glory. Anyone that’s been to Dubai 7s before will know that there’s plenty more to the festivities than that. As always there’ll be a veritable scrum of
festival food, live music and the particular brand of joyous furore that has made the 7s one of Dubai’s great annual weekends. Because 2026 has been designated the UAE’s Year of the Family, expect a particularly strong focus on ageinclusive activities surrounding the stands. Confirmed attractions include the UAE’s biggest-ever inflatable kids’ zone, a Ferris wheel and zipline. And as the sun goes down, and the trylines cry out for a swift returfing – the real musical celebrations begin. Jax Jones and former Spice Girl Melanie C have been announced as the lead DJs for the Beats on 2 stage, but the fill list of this year’s headliners is yet to be announced. If last year’s line-up of Tinie Tempah, Sean Paul and Fisher is anything to go by, that giant egg-shaped ball won’t be the only thing bouncing around the stands. Tickets: Friday tickets start from Dhs75, with under15s getting in free. Saturday and Sunday day passes are Dhs455 each, while a three-day general admission pass starts from Dhs595. And for those wishing to approach the 7s with substantially more canapébased sophistication, Sunroom hospitality starts from Dhs1,925 per day, including food, beverages, prime Pitch 1 viewing and access to the weekend’s music. emiratesdubai7s.com
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 21
THE MAN BEHIND THE MACARON CHEF PIERRE HERME
The legend behind the Ispahan macaron speaks to What’s On about his new flagship restaurant in Abu Dhabi, the love that goes into baking the perfect macaron and why he’s bringing his world of savoury flavours to the capital. WORDS: SHANTELLE NAGARAJAN
T
here’s something magical about biting into a perfectly constructed macaron. The crispy shell gives way to a soft centre, and for a moment, your sweet tooth craving is satisfied by heavenly bliss. For renowned French pâtissier Pierre Hermé, achieving this result has been the product of a lifetime dedicated to the science behind a macaron. It’s this very dedication that has now brought savoury offerings to Abu Dhabi, with the opening of a flagship restaurant at Marina Mall. Here, diners are treated to Hermé’s world-famous Ispahan desserts along with the introduction of a fullyfledged all-day dining menu.
22 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Some of the highlights on the menu include an elevated avocado toast with a confit egg yolk and pistachio vinaigrette and a chicken croque monsieur, and the pièce de résistance Ispahan Ceviche – an original based on the flavours of Hermé’s signature Ispahan macaron. “We wanted to create a presence in the heart of the city,” Hermé said of his vision behind the flagship. While the brand has a boutique restaurant at Rosewood Abu Dhabi (which serves up a great afternoon tea), the chef-turned-restauranteur said they had to respond to consumers’ need with a venue that is “accessible to everyone”.
I N C O N V E R S AT I O N W I T H P I E R R E H E R M É
THE LINEAGE OF THE ICONIC ISPAHAN A fourth-generation pastry chef, Hermé developed his craft under French pastry chef Gaston Lenôtre before continuing his career at Fauchon and Ladurée. He founded Pierre Hermé Paris in 1998, building a reputation for reimagining traditional pâtisserie through unexpected flavour combinations, precise techniques and an approach he has often described as ‘haute-pâtisserie’. One of Hermé’s most identifiable menu items is the Isphahan flavour. The trifecta of rose, lychee, and raspberry has become inextricably linked to the brand’s name; however, the origin of the flavour profile is rooted in an unexpected culinary discovery. “There is a long story behind Ispahan,” said Hermé. “It all began with my discovery of Bulgarian cuisine and its use of rose, an ingredient that has since become an important part of my creations.” While the flavours were initially introduced as a cake combining rose and raspberry, a fusion that ranked high in sales but wasn’t entirely well-received, Hermé went back to the drawing board and thus the Ispahan was born. In 1997, Hermé introduced the pastry as a new creation, featuring macaron biscuits, buttercream, lychee and raspberry. “Today, Ispahan has become
one of our most iconic signature flavours,” Hermé said. Over the years, the combination has inspired an extensive range of creations, from cakes and macarons to ice cream, jams, chocolate bonbons, loaf cakes and croissants. The Ispahan cake itself brings together a pink macaron shell, rose cream, fresh raspberries and lychee, combining a crisp exterior with soft textures and floral, sweet and tangy notes. The latest interpretation takes the signature flavours into savoury territory. The Ispahan ceviche brings rose, lychee and raspberry into a dish that moves beyond the traditional boundaries of pâtisserie. Hermé said the new creation offers another way to experience the combination, which has remained central to his work for almost three decades.
HERMÉ’S GUIDE TO SPOTTING THE PERFECT MACARON Macarons may be among the Maison’s best-known creations, but Hermé says their quality can be judged before the first bite. “When you first look at a macaron, the texture should be very smooth. Between the two biscuits, there should be a generous amount of filling. If the filling is nice and generous, you can already tell that the macaron is likely to be good,” he says. According to Hermé, the true test of a perfect macaron is in its bite. “The biscuit should have a slight resistance at first, before becoming very soft and chewy,” he explains. Finally, depending on your flavour of choice, the macaron should let you “experience all of those flavours and, above all, really enjoy them,” Hermé concludes. At Marina Mall, the macaron selection sits alongside signature pâtisseries including Ispahan, Infiniment Vanille and 2000 Feuilles, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the flavours and techniques that have defined Hermé’s work.
PIERRE HERMÉ’S ORDER Ispahan ceviche, roasted cauliflower, Pierre Hermé-style beef burger and the spaghetti with confit tomatoes and eggplant. WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 23
AND THE
WINNERS ARE Your definitive guide to Dubai’s best nightlife spots and events, from party brunches to pubs, clubs, ladies’ nights and live music venues
24 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
W H AT ’S O N N I G H T L I F E AWA R D S 2 0 2 6
VOTED FOR BY YOU BEST COCKTAI L BAR
Mimi Kakushi
Award presented by Shoaib Moideen – General Manager, Media Pro International (left).
Inventive cocktails, serious attention to detail and a glamorous 1920s Osaka-inspired setting make Mimi Kakushi a bar worth dressing up for. HIGHLY COMMENDED ISABELLA CUCINA ITALIANA
SAVANT6
VIDA EMIRATES HILLS
SO/ UPTOWN DUBAI
BEST HAPPY HOUR
Culinara
Award presented by Shoaib Moideen – General Manager, Media Pro International (right).
Clock off and head up. Culinara pairs selected Dhs35 drinks with a social setting and lofty city views for after-work drinks done right. HIGHLY COMMENDED
BEST LADI ES’ DAY WET Deck, W Dubai – The Palm
Award presented by Leeanne Hume – Group Business Manager – On-trade Dubai, African & Eastern (left).
Sunshine, cocktails and resident DJs: WET Deck turns a day beside the water into the kind of poolside party Dubai does brilliantly. HIGHLY COMMENDED
MONKEY BAR
SUNKEN GARDEN
BLA BLA BY
25HOURS HOTEL ONE CENTRAL
THE RITZ-CARLTON, DIFC
McGETTIGAN’S
COVEBEACH
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 25
W H AT ’S O N N I G H T L I F E AWA R D S 2 0 2 6
VOTED FOR BY YOU BEST LADI ES’ N IGHT
Iris Dubai Harbour
Award presented by Leeanne Hume – Group Business Manager – On-trade Dubai, African & Eastern (left).
Sunset views roll effortlessly into late-night revelry at Iris, where cocktails, sharing plates and a lively soundtrack keep the evening moving. HIGHLY COMMENDED CANARY CLUB
BEST LIVE MUSIC VE NUE
The Irish Village, Al Garhoud
Award presented by Leeanne Hume – Group Business Manager – On-trade Dubai, African & Eastern (left).
A Dubai institution that still knows how to put on a show, The Irish Village combines live music with an unbeatable old-school atmosphere. HIGHLY COMMENDED McCAFFERTY’S
Q’S BAR AND LOUNGE
JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE
PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI
26 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
LEÑA
BEST RESTAURANT BAR
La Petite Maison Dubai
Award presented by Thomas Woodgate – Group Content Director, Motivate Media Group (left).
Come for dinner, stay for another Tomatini. LPM’s beautiful bar, precision-made cocktails and unmistakable DIFC buzz make lingering practically compulsory. HIGHLY COMMENDED THE MAINE LAND BRASSERIE
EDITOR’S CHOICE AWARDS BEST COM EDY N IGHT
Abz Ali Roasts, Pepperoni Comedy Club
Award presented by Big Rossi – Presenter, The Kris Fade Show – Virgin Radio Dubai (left).
Quick, fearless and gloriously unpredictable, Abz Ali’s roasting turns audience interaction into the main event. Just don’t sit too close to the front. HIGHLY COMMENDED JOKE HUB BY THE MAD CAT COMEDY CLUB
BEST BEACH BAR
Laguna Beach Taverna & Lounge, Sofitel Dubai The Palm
Award presented by Ashley Jacob – Managing Director, Jacobsons Direct Marketing (fifth from left) and Jacob Cummings – Presenter, Virgin Radio Dubai (second from the right).
Bare feet, sea breezes, cocktails and deep house beats. Laguna has perfected that sweet spot between laid-back beach escape and sunset-to-late-night hangout. HIGHLY COMMENDED FEBRUARY 30
KOKO BAY
THE LAUGHTER FACTORY AT AURA SKYPOOL
BEST BEACH CLUB
La Cantine Beach
Award presented by Ashley Jacob – Managing Director, Jacobsons Direct Marketing (centre).
Stylish without trying too hard, La Cantine Beach brings together Mediterranean dining, pools, beach time and wellness for a brilliantly rounded day out. HIGHLY COMMENDED NIKKI BEACH DUBAI
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 27
W H AT ’S O N N I G H T L I F E AWA R D S 2 0 2 6
BEST BEACH RESTAURANT
Casita By Casa Amor, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
Award presented by Ashley Jacob – Managing Director, Jacobsons Direct Marketing (third from left) Jacob Cummings – Presenter, Virgin Radio Dubai (right).
Easy-going Mediterranean cooking, a beautiful setting beside the sea and long, unhurried lunches make this one of Dubai’s most inviting beachfront tables. HIGHLY COMMENDED GIGI RIGOLATTO DUBAI
BEST COFFE E PARTI ES
Secret Coffee Parties
NAMMOS DUBAI
BEST CONCE RT, GIG OR FESTIVAL Carl Cox at Pacha ICONS, FIVE LUXE JBR
Award presented by Big Rossi – Presenter, The Kris Fade Show – Virgin Radio Dubai (left).
Proof you don’t need late nights to throw a proper party. Coffee, DJs, dancing and community combine in this refreshingly different daytime concept. HIGHLY COMMENDED FRED’S COFFEE PARTY
28 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
IKTO
Pacha ICONS gave Dubai a reason to hit the dancefloor in May with its season closing party at FIVE LUXE JBR that saw global techno legend Carl Cox headline an unforgettable set. HIGHLY COMMENDED CALVIN HARRIS AT USHUAÏA DUBAI HARBOUR
GARAGE NATION DXB AT ZERO GRAVITY
BEST DATE N IGHT SPOT
SUSHISAMBA DUBAI
Award presented by Violeta Popescu – Commercial Director, Motivate Media Group (second from left) and Jacob Cummings – Presenter, Virgin Radio Dubai (right)
Few date nights start 51 floors up. Add panoramic Palm views, a spectacular dining room and Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian cooking, and you’re onto a winner. HIGHLY COMMENDED BLUE DOOR
CQ FRENCH BRASSERIE
DELANO DUBAI
BEST DI N N E R AN D A SHOW
Billionaire Dubai
Award presented by Violeta Popescu – Commercial Director, Motivate Media Group (left).
Dinner is only half the story here. Italian-Japanese cooking meets acrobats and theatrical performances in an evening where entertainment takes centre stage. HIGHLY COMMENDED DREAM DUBAI ADDRESS BEACH RESORT
ARETHA
BEST ENTERTAIN M ENT VENUE
Topgolf Dubai
Award presented by Big Rossi – Presenter, The Kris Fade Show – Virgin Radio Dubai (left) and Jacob Cummings – Presenter, Virgin Radio Dubai (right).
Golf bays, arcade games, big screens, food and drinks give Topgolf that rare quality: it’s just as much fun for non-golfers. HIGHLY COMMENDED BRASS MONKEY
FIVE IRON GOLF DUBAI
CITY WALK
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 29
W H AT ’S O N N I G H T L I F E AWA R D S 2 0 2 6
BEST EVE N I NG BRUNCH
BA – Boldly Asian, Fairmont The Palm
Award presented by Anthony Milne – Chief Commercial Officer, Motivate Media Group (left).
Friday night comes alive with free-flowing drinks, bold Pan-Asian dishes and an atmosphere made for starting the weekend in suitably spirited fashion. HIGHLY COMMENDED BIG FAT GREEK BRUNCH
HUTONG DUBAI
GALLERY 7/40
BEST PARTY BRUNCH
Bubbalicious, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi
BEST PARTY RESTAURANT
CÉ LA VI
Award presented by Frances Claire Canlas Salvador – Business Development Manager, Luxury Super Cars Rental (fourth from right).
A bona fide Dubai brunch institution. Decadent food, Champagne and a gloriously big Saturday afternoon continue to make Bubbalicious an enduring crowd-pleaser. HIGHLY COMMENDED SON OF A FISH
30 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
THE GUILD
Modern Asian food and Downtown views are just the beginning. As DJs take over and the energy climbs, CÉ LA VI really comes alive. HIGHLY COMMENDED AMAZÓNICO DUBAI
OPA
BEST POOL DAY
AURA Skypool
Award presented by Frances Claire Canlas Salvador – Business Development Manager, Luxury Super Cars Rental (second from right).
Swimming doesn’t get much more spectacular than this. Soak up 360-degree Dubai views, good tunes and cocktails from the world’s highest infinity pool. HIGHLY COMMENDED BANYAN TREE POOL & BEACH
ZETA SEVENTY SEVEN ADDRESS BEACH RESORT
BEST PUB
The Eloquent Elephant, Taj Dubai
Award presented by Anthony Milne – Chief Commercial Officer, Motivate Media Group (left).
A proper gastropub in the heart of Business Bay, delivering freshly poured draughts, hearty food and the cosy atmosphere every great pub needs.
BEST ROOFTOP BAR Luna Dubai, Four Seasons Hotel DIFC
Award presented by Anthony Milne – Chief Commercial Officer, Motivate Media Group (left).
High above DIFC, Luna delivers skyline views, an expansive terrace, elevated cocktails and Asian-inspired bites in one seriously polished rooftop package.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
HIGHLY COMMENDED
JB’S GASTROPUB
THE DUBLINER’S
PAROS
SOBE
AMWAJ ROTANA – JUMEIRAH BEACH
LE MÉRIDIEN DUBAI HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE
TAJ JUMEIRAH LAKES TOWERS
W DUBAI – THE PALM
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 31
W H AT ’S O N N I G H T L I F E AWA R D S 2 0 2 6
BEST SPEAKEASY BAR Smoke & Mirrors, SLS Dubai
Award presented by Anthony Milne – Chief Commercial Officer, Motivate Media Group (left).
BEST SPORTS BAR
Seven Sports Bar, NH Collection Dubai The Palm
Award presented by Shoaib Moideen – General Manager, Media Pro International (right).
Hidden away high inside SLS Dubai, this glamorous cocktail and cigar lounge mixes South American influence, quality spirits and remarkable Downtown views.
Big-screen sport, hearty bar food and cold drinks: Seven gets the fundamentals spot-on, with a lively atmosphere when the big games are on.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
HIGHLY COMMENDED
1920
LITT
BRIDGEWATER TAVERN
RIBS & BREWS
JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOTEL DUBAI
HILTON DUBAI AL HABTOOR CITY
BEST SUN DOWN E R SPOT
BEST QUIZ N IGHT
Award presented by Ashley Jacob – Managing Director, Jacobsons Direct Marketing (centre).
Award presented by Big Rossi – Presenter, The Kris Fade Show – Virgin Radio Dubai (left).
Sand beneath your feet, the water in front of you and Mediterranean flavours on the table: Shimmers makes golden hour feel effortlessly special.
Pens at the ready. A laid-back rooftop setting, plenty of friendly competition and proper prizes make this a midweek quiz worth assembling the team for.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Shimmers, Jumeirah Mina Al Salam
We Quiz, garden on 8
BUNGALO34
LEVEL 43 SKY LOUNGE
OFFSIDE
URBAN BAR DELI
NIKKI BEACH RESORT & SPA
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
JA OCEAN VIEW HOTEL
DAMAC HILLS 2 HOTEL
32 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
GRAND PRIX AWARDS N IGHTCLUB OF TH E YEAR
Bling, Five Palm Jumeirah
Award presented by Thomas Woodgate – Group Content Director, Motivate Media Group (left).
High-octane energy, champagne bottles topped with sparklers, the best beats in town and a packed dance floor surrounded by supercars (yes, really). BLING at FIVE Palm Jumeirah delivers an extravagant clubbing experience, making it the place to see and be seen. HIGHLY COMMENDED SOHO GARDEN DXB
BAR OF TH E YEAR
Amelia Dubai
Award presented by Thomas Woodgate – Group Content Director, Motivate Media Group (left).
Exceptional mixology, Japanese-Peruvian dining and a soundtrack of Afro-melodic house combine inside Amelia’s striking steampunk-inspired world. A seriously memorable night out. HIGHLY COMMENDED BLIND TIGER JUMEIRAH AL NASEEM
GALAXY BAR
THE MANSION DUBAI
N EWCOM E R OF TH E YEAR
Lady Bird
Award presented by Thomas Woodgate – Group Content Director, Motivate Media Group (left).
A neighbourhood bar with a refreshingly simple proposition: good drinks and good times. Lady Bird has quickly given Dubai another reason to go out. HIGHLY COMMENDED LE PIAF DUBAI
SOBREMESA SOUK AL BAHAR
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 33
W H AT ’S O N N I G H T L I F E AWA R D S 2 0 2 6
TH E BIG N IGHT W
e brought the best of Dubai’s nightlife industry together under the stars at Bohemia, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, for the What’s On Nightlife Awards 2026. The evening was packed with cheers, dazzling entertainment, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of celebrations as we crowned the city’s finest nightlife destinations. From big wins to unforgettable moments, it was certainly a night to remember.
02
01
01 A little warm up before the celebrations kick-off. 02 A win as big as this calls for a celebratory group snap. 03 Sporting their best looks and award-winning smiles. 04 Gang’s all here. 05 All ready and waiting for their new homes. 06 Pre-award vibes were just as good.
04 03
05
34 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
06
07
08
09
12
10
13
11
14
07 Team Cé La Vi claimed their spot as the Best Party Restaurant. 08 Going all out on entertainment is standard What’s On procedure. 09 The group chat understood the assignment. 10 Ashley Jacob of Jacobsons Direct Marketing (left) always brings high energy and bright smiles. 11 No notes, just perfection. 12 How else would you show up to a party in Dubai? 13 Strike a pose. 14 A moment for the men. 15 And the award for most coordinated fits goes to... 16 Dressed to impress. 15
16
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 35
W H AT ’S O N N I G H T L I F E AWA R D S 2 0 2 6
17
18
17 A night of wins and delicious bites. 18 Setting the mood, one note at a time. 19 A picture-perfect sugar rush. 20 A smooth operator on the sax. 21 Checking in for a night to remember. 22 The fun team at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. 23 Settling in for the celebrations. 19
20
21
22
36 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
23
EVE NT SPONSORS Thanks to our sponsors for working with the team on such a fantastic event.
25
24
Sponsors
Beverage Partner 26
Venue Partners
Audio Visual Partner
28
Vote Processing Partner 27
24 Our Best Speakeasy Bar winner: Smoke & Mirrors, SLS Dubai. 25 What’s On Commercial Director, Violeta Popescu striking a pose. 26 The oh-so-fabulous What’s On team. 27 Three poses. All perfectly executed. 28 (From left) What’s On’s Pamela Bayram, Ali Mohammad, Nitika Sharma and Sabir Khodabux. 29 Sharing the winning moments on the ‘Gram.
Presented By
29
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 37
REGISTER HERE
FIND OUT MORE
FOR EVENT SPONSORSHIP, REGISTRATIONS AND GENERAL ENQUIRIES violeta.popescu@motivate.ae | pamela.bayram@motivate.ae | ali.mohammad@motivate.ae
WhatsOn.ae
Sponsor
Beverage Partner
Printing Partner
WhatsOnDubai
Vote Processing Partner
#WOAwards
Structural Partner
Presented By
EAT | DRINK | SHOP
PA G E 42
Our Roman Empire
We’re still thinking about the pizza from Bonci FEAST ON A MENU LED BY THE MED AT OPAIA p40 TRIO RETURNS TO ITS ROOTS p41 WHY NOREN SHOULD BE ON YOUR LIST p43 MOSAIC IS MORE THAN A SUM OF ITS PARTS p44
EAT // REVIEW
OPAIA
Why one of the oldest structures on Abu Dhabi’s corniche is worth the visit WORDS: SHANTELLE NAGARAJAN
N
estled in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s corniche, OPAIA Restaurant and Lounge is the newest of many eateries to have set up shop in one of the capital’s oldest and most recognisable structures. The circular, colosseumlooking building has graced the grass of Lake Park on the Corniche for decades and historically, even offered seaside seating. Since OPAIA opened its doors, it’s been welcoming guests for delicious Mediterranean food paired with inventive mocktails and scrumptious desserts.
The vibe Dinner is off to a great start before you even step into the restaurant, with OPAIA’s private parking making arrival easy and hassle-free. The walk up to the restaurant is particularly beautiful at sunset, as the hues of dusk blanket the Roman-inspired design of the building, giving visitors a little escape from the regular architecture of the city. Inside, chic interiors are slightly offset by large screens showing the day’s football action. While it adds a lively touch, the bright screens can distract from the sunset, so we recommend heading towards OPAIA’s indoor-outdoor seating area, which is the perfect setting for a romantic coffee or dinner date.
The food & drink Start with a selection from their extensive drinks menu, which offers freshly made juices, iced teas and mocktails. We went with the lemon iced tea, which we were happy to find was freshly brewed and made with real lemons. For a show, order one of their impressive mocktails. Moving on to filling hungry bellies, you’re safe with a choice of hummus bil lahme – a true test of a good 40 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Mediterranean restaurant – and OPAIA passes with flying colours. The creamy hummus is topped with juicy minced lamb and served with complimentary freshly baked pita bread which is warm, soft and the ideal accompaniment. We also got the vine leaves to freshen up the table with juicy pops of pomegranate seeds and pillowy rice. For a hot starter, the calamari is cooked perfectly, deliciously crispy and not chewy at all. We then headed straight to the specials for mains and ordered kebabs for the table. Namely, the grilled kofta roll, which was served on a pool of smoky tomato sauce. The minced kofta kebab comes wrapped in a soft pita, resembling a reconstructed manakish roll. The showstopper is the tortilla kebab, which surprised us with a delicate balance of flavours. Tangy, sweet and smoky, and stacked neatly in a ratatouille-inspired arrangement, this kebab had the right amount of everything. Crispy tortilla in between layers of thin grilled minced lamb that bring through the char of the grill and brought together sweetly with pomegranate molasses. For dessert, we tried their newly added crispy kunafa skewers, which leaned a bit
too sweet for our liking, but still had all the elements of a perfect end to a hearty meal. If you’d like a post-meal pick me up, their V60 Ethiopian blend is smooth and well brewed.
The service Attentive, helpful and well-versed with the menu, OPAIA runs a hospitable ship. From the moment you’re greeted at the door by the host to when you ask for the bill before you leave, the staff elevate the dining experience.
What’s on the bill Fried calamari (Dhs46), hummus bil lahme (Dhs46), vine leaves (Dhs33), tortilla kebab (Dhs90), grilled kofta roll (Dhs94), crispy kunafa skewers (Dhs48). WHAT’S ON VERDICT
A romantic escape in one of Abu Dhabi’s most recognisable locations, done well. Sunset brings the best views so pencil in the time for an early dinner.
Location: Lake Park, 1st St - Al Danah, Abu Dhabi Times: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 3am Contact: 050 403 0906; opaia.ae
EAT // REVIEW
TRIO
Five years, a string of hit café branches, and a sentimental return to Jumeirah WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
F
un fact: TRIO actually began in Jumeirah. In 2021, Emirati coffee expert Aysha Bin Huwaireb opened her first café in the neighbourhood. Five years on, the Dubai-born brand has branches in Dubai Mall, Al Ain and Mirdif, among others, with whispers of an international outpost to come. Now they’ve opened a full-blown café back in their own ‘hood. The founding family has lived here for generations, since it was little more than a fishing village, so this feels like a heartwarming homecoming.
The space The room is long and rectangular, dressed in the shades of the menu: espresso, milk latte and macchiato. A winding Bowery Company bouclé sofa ripples through the middle, flanked by velvet booths,
and black-and-white photographs of old Dubai line the walls. Coffee is prepared at the entrance with proper ceremony. The design carries the language of the other branches but has an identity of its own.
The food & drink For us, the bakery is the focal point here. A glass window looks straight into the baker’s kitchen, and what emerges is the work of people who know what they’re doing with viennoiserie and pastries baked in-house, fresh and skillfully made. The all-day menu runs from breakfast to dessert. Breakfast classics come wedged into crisp, flaky croissants, such as the spicy omelette and the scrambled egg. Elsewhere you’ll find savoury baos and toasts, plus Emirati-inspired dishes and desserts that nod to the founder’s childhood table.
Coffee gets equal billing. Choose your origin across the espresso menu or at the V60 bar, where single-origin pour-overs come hot or cold. There are signature lattes too, and a marble matcha range that has built a following of its own. It’s the calling card of the brand’s matcha-led subbrand, Cult Matcha.
The service Coffees arrive on golden trays, carried by gentle, softly spoken staff. The effect is wonderfully calm.
What’s on the bill? Blueberry Custard Danish (Dhs34); Aubergine Harissa Pain Suisse (Dhs38); Peach Iced Tea (Dhs31.50); Caramel Shortbread Matcha (Dhs45). WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Yes, the matcha is loved. But the bakery is the reason to come. Order a pastry still warm from the oven, pair it with a V60, and enjoy. Where: 22nd Street, Umm Sequim 2, Dubai When: Daily 6am to 11.30pm Contact: Tel: (0)56 837 8812; @triocoffee.ae WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 41
EAT // REVIEW
BONCI
Rome’s cult pizza arrives in Dubai, but there’s more to it than slices WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE
D
ubai does pizza extremely well. What it doesn’t have quite so much of is Roman pizza al taglio: big rectangular trays of airy dough piled with toppings, cut with scissors and sold by weight. Enter Bonci. Gabriele Bonci is a major name in Roman pizza, having opened Pizzarium in Rome in 2003 and subsequently built an international following around his particular approach to dough, fermentation and toppings. Dubai is Bonci’s first Middle Eastern outpost, opening inside Chef ’s Society at City Centre Mirdif. But this isn’t simply just another flash pizza joint inside a Dubai mall. Alongside the traditional counter, where you choose your pizza before it is cut and weighed, there’s table service and a wider Italian menu on offer.
The food For all the talk of pizza, some of the opening dishes make a convincing case for exploring beyond it. The Roman meatballs are exactly the sort of uncomplicated comfort food you hope for: meatballs sitting in a moreish tomato sauce that you immeditaely know will be mopped up in no time. Then there’s the classic supplì, the Roman fried rice ball filled here with tomato sauce, mozzarella and parmigiano. Crisp outside, soft and cheesy through the middle, it’s difficult to stop at one. Pasta comes next. The truffle leans fully
42 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
into richness, combining a creamy parmigiano sauce with truffle, while the classic lasagne sticks resolutely to familiar territory with ground beef, tomato sauce, mozzarella, parmigiano and béchamel. Neither is trying to reinvent Italian cooking, and nor do they need to. But they do it well. Very well, in fact. Really, though, we’re here for the pizza. Bonci’s dough goes through a 48-hour fermentation designed to produce the signature contrast: light and airy within, crisp outside. It is the foundation upon which the whole reputation has been built. The Margherita is the obvious place to begin because there is nowhere for bad dough to hide. But things get much more interesting with the potato parmigiano, topped with potato, butter and parmigiano. Potato on pizza might sound like carbohydrate overkill, but it works remarkably well, all soft potato, salty cheese and that crisp base. The Genovese ragù, topped with slowcooked beef and onions, is richer and considerably more substantial, almost turning a pizza into Sunday lunch. Pepperoni brings things back to more familiar ground and proves that Bonci can do the crowd-pleasers just as confidently. There is a simplicity to the pizzas that makes sense once you stop thinking about the toppings and pay attention to what is underneath them. The dough isn’t merely the vehicle here. It’s the reason to come. Then, because apparently pizza for dinner isn’t enough, there is pizza for dessert. The
apple pizza is the more restrained of the two, sweet without completely losing sight of the base beneath it. Would have loved a scopp of ice-cream wirth it, though. The Nutella pizza abandons restraint altogether. You probably don’t need it after everything above. You should probably order it anyway.
The service Friendly and refreshingly enthusiastic about explaining what makes the pizza different. That matters with a concept like this, particularly when potato pizza and slices sold by weight may be unfamiliar territory.
What’s on the bill? Roman meatballs (Dhs63), classic supplì (Dhs16), truffle pasta (Dhs70), classic lasagne (Dhs55), Margherita pizza (Dhs70), potato parmigiano (Dhs125), Genovese ragù (Dhs110) and pepperoni (Dhs110). WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Bonci manages to introduce something genuinely different to Dubai’s crowded pizza scene without making it unnecessarily complicated. The potato parmigiano is the one we’d go back for, but don’t overlook the supplì, and definitely save more room for dessert than we did. Location: Bonci, Chef’s Society, First Floor, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Times: Daily, 9am to midnight Contact: City Centre Mirdif / Chef’s Society
EAT // REVIEW
NOREN
poured to the very brim of your shot glass and served over ice.
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
The service
Two former Zuma legends open a Japanese restaurant in JLT
T
he cluster-riddled residential neighbourhood of Jumeirah Lakes Towers has already given us some of the city’s most exciting homegrown restaurants: Bait Maryam, Couqley (now CQ), Nola, Mythos, Maiz. So, it feels like a smart move that the founders of Noren have decided to join the fun. These are no ordinary founders, however. For over fifteen years, Ilir Caushi (Managing Director) and Pawel Kazanowski (Executive Chef ) helped shape Zuma’s global success, building one of the region’s best-known restaurant brands. Now they’ve started something all their own, born of a belief that Dubai has too few places that simply exist to be a restaurant. “Noren is designed for any occasion, or no occasion at all,” they say. The hope is a spot that becomes part of your weekly routine, not a once-or-twicea-year visit.
The space Noren sits at ground level of the Pullman Hotel, but with its own entrance, away from the lobby, which gives it the feel of
a proper standalone restaurant. Big plus. Walk in of an evening and there’s a warmth to the place. It’s clean and contemporary by design, yet cosy, and properly buzzing. A racing green-tiled island bar glows from above, where the post-work crowd sips cocktails and wine and works through the extensive sake list the team is rightly proud of. We could see ourselves sitting here often. Beyond it, a larger dining room wraps around an open kitchen with a counter for those who like to be near the action. The chefs joke and laugh with one another, which makes a nice change. Timber, tile and tactile finishes do the rest, putting the cooking at the centre of the room.
The food and drinks The menu moves between raw preparations, the sushi counter and the grill. We adored the thinly sliced chutoro with jalapeño dressing, and the beautifully colourful tomato carpaccio with Ibaraki soy sauce. The showstoppers are a smoky red miso-glazed bone marrow, served on a long black plate, and an inventive onion rings dish lathered in Japanese seven-spice paste and lashings of bonito flakes. A fun pairing it the Reisen Tokubetsu Honjozo sake,
There’s a real warmth to Ilir if you’re lucky enough to meet him. He carries himself with the calm of someone who’s been in the game a long time, and is now content to build a restaurant he’d actually like to spend time in. His team follows suit. Despite a full house and not much room to manoeuvre, everyone appears to be having a good time, which creates an ease that’s far harder to manufacture than it looks.
What’s on the bill? Tomato carpaccio (Dhs38); Cauliflower karaage (Dhs38); Chutoro with jalapeno dressing (Dhs72); Okonomi onion rings with bonito flakes (Dhs48); Red miso glazed bone marrow (Dhs98) WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Where to go for dinner that’s not too fancy, but buzzy, fun and seriously good? Noren. Go once, and you’ll probably find yourself back by the end of the week, which we believe is kind of the point. Where: Pullman Dubai JLT, Cluster T, Jumeirah Lakes Towers When: Daily noon to 11.30pm Contact: Tel: (0)4 565 4910; @norenrestaurant WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 43
EAT // REVIEW
MOSAIC RESTAURANT Celebrating its tenth year in Abu Dhabi, Mosaic breaks records with mouthwatering mezzes and mains WORDS: SHANTELLE NAGARAJAN
44 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
L
ebanon is fondly regarded as the Paris of the Middle East and you understand exactly why as soon as you step into Mosaic Restaurant. With high ceilings adorned with chandeliers and decorational plates and sparkling mirrors surrounding you, it’s as romantic as dining on the Seine – the Beirut way.
The food We returned to Mosaic to celebrate its tenth anniversary, and to mark the milestone, Group Executive Chef Hassana El Baroudi brought together more than 196 varieties of Lebanese mezzes in one extraordinary culinary display. Chef Hassana was born and raised in Beirut and grew up with her grandfather’s seaside restaurant, her grandmother’s pastries and her mother’s Lebanese cooking. She now leads a diverse team of more than 200 Group Executive Chef Chef Hassana El Baroudi people. The vast mosaic of mezzes pays a fitting homade to Lebanon’s regions, villages and family kitchens, with each and the Mouhamara (Dhs35) livens it all dish keeping its own identity, flavour up with a touch of spice. For mains, the and character. Each dish contributed star of the show is very obviously the 1KG something different to the overall picture, Mixed Grill (Dhs310) which serves up from familiar favourites that have earned a delicious platter of Mosaic’s signature their place at the Lebanese table to grills. Made to share, these grilled-toregional specialities that deserve a little perfection kebabs are juicy, flavourful and more attention. And while the sheer authentically Lebanese. Pair it with an number of dishes made an immediate order of the Mosaic Rice Plate (Dhs23) to impression, the menu beyond the mezzes balance out the protein with some carbs is worth a visit. that are oh-so-worth it. If you’ve filled Mosaic offers a paradise of flavours up on the mezzes and want something for meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. lighter for a main, you can’t go wrong with We started with a spread of salads, the the Chicken Shawarma Classic Sandwich Tabouleh Quinoa (Dhs46) is a must-try (Dhs16), which What’s On Abu Dhabi as is the Fattoush Mosaic (Dhs42). The fervently stands by as one of the best in ingredients from both salads are so fresh the capital. that just one bite transcends you to the To end on a sweet note, venture out green gardens of Lebanon. The crispy pita of your comfort zone and try the Date garnish on the Fattoush adds the perfect Pudding (Dhs 30), a warm, comforting crunch to each bite while the quinoa in end to the meal infused with sweet potato the tabouleh brings a hearty depth to an – a sweet treat with zero guilt factor. otherwise rather grassy salad. Need we say more? For cold starters, you must try the The service Mutabbal Mosaic (Dhs39) in which Seamlessly attentive, lunch service goes charred aubergine smokes up your palate just before a bite of the pomegranate seeds by without a hitch at Mosaic as the staff are prompt, well-informed about the bursts through with a sharp tang. menu, and know exactly what to get you The Warak inab Bizet (Dhs38) based on your preferences. compliments the table with sour notes
What’s on the bill Tabouleh Quinoa (Dhs46), Fattoush Mosaic (Dhs42), Mutabbal Mosaic (Dhs39), Warak inab Bizet (Dhs38), Mouhamara (Dhs35), 1KG Mixed Grill (Dhs310), Mosaic Rice Plate (Dhs23), Chicken Shawarma Classic Sandwich (Dhs16), Date Pudding (Dhs 30). WHAT’S ON VERDICT
The soul behind the food shines bright at Mosaic Restaurant. Warm and welcoming, with every dish delicately balanced.
Location: Al Rumaithi Street, Guardian Towers, Al Muroor, Abu Dhabi | Mohammed Bin Butti Street, Vision Towers, Al Najda, Abu Dhabi, opposite Al Sultan Bakery. For those in Dubai, Mosaic is now available for deliveries on Talabat. Times: Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday to Monday, 8.30am to 11.30pm; Friday, 1.15pm to 11.30pm Contact: 600580580; mosaicrestaurant.com
WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 45
We’ve seen every “next big thing” since 1996.
2026 – Etihad Rail
2023 – COP28
2016 – Saudi Vision 2030
2010 – Burj Khalifa
2003 – Saudi Joins WTO
1996 – Qatar’s First LNG Export
SCAN TO READ THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
gulfbusiness.com GulfBusiness
ART | THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC
PA G E 48
November: Wrapped This is the setlist for your month WHATSON.AE | MONTH 2022 47
CULTURE // EVENT GUIDE
THE BIG
NOVEMBER
A month of big plans WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR AND SHIFALI JAIN
S
ave some space on your calendar for November, because the UAE has big plans for you. From electrifying, techno-heavy club nights to much-needed comedic relief, this is your guide to doing November right.
THEATRE PERFORMANCES DUBAI The Ugly One When: Nov 6 to 8 The Ugly One returns to The Junction this November, blending biting humour with thought-provoking questions about identity, beauty and society’s expectations. The provocative production explores the lengths we go to for acceptance. Nov 6 to 8, from Dhs130, The Junction Dubai
48 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
The Ugly One
LINE-UP
OUR TOP PICKS FOR YOUR NOVEMBER DUBAI Queen of the Night – A Tribute to Whitney Houston When: Nov 6
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show When: Nov 6 and 7 Looking for a performance to take the little ones to? The Very Hungry Caterpillar comes to life on stages in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this November. Based on Eric Carle’s beloved stories, this colourful production features more than 75 puppets, original music and charming storytelling. The show has been performed in 20 countries for more than three million children and has received praise from The New York Times, The Huffington Post and more. Nov 6 and 7 in Abu Dhabi, Nov 8 in Dubai, from Dhs125, Meyana Theatre in Dubai and Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI
Arriving in Dubai after performances at iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and the London Palladium, Queen of the Night is a tribute to the one and only Whitney Houston. Join in as the band celebrates her timeless songs, led by a powerhouse vocalist, on November 6. Expect all-time hits including I Wanna Dance with Somebody, I’m Every Woman, Run to You, Saving All My Love and more. Nov 6, from Dhs290, Dubai Opera
Abba-esque Party When: Nov 7 Who can resist singing along to ABBA’s tunes? Whether it’s on the radio or a film, singing along comes naturally. If you want back-to-back ABBA mania, hop aboard the QE2 on November 7 for ABBA-esque Party, featuring three hours of singalong fun, food, drinks and dancing. Nov 7, from Dhs399, Theatre by QE2
A Night of Ludovico Einaudi When: Nov 20 Love Ludovico Einaudi’s stirring melodies on the ‘gram? The Chamber Ensemble Tynda Music brings the tunes to life this month offering a fresh take on his beautiful compositions. Note: this is a tribute, so Einaudi won’t be performing himself. Nov 20, from Dhs250, The New Convent Garden Theatre
S4K’s Macbeth When: Nov 15 Something wickedly brilliant is rocking its way to Abu Dhabi this November. Shakespeare’s Macbeth gets a musical makeover in this childfriendly adaptation by Shakespeare 4 Kidz, bringing one of the Bard’s best-known tragedies to the stage in a more accessible format. It follows a Scottish warrior who is told by three mysterious figures that he will one day become king. There’s just one problem: Scotland already has a king. What follows is a tale of ambition, murder, betrayal, ghosts and revenge. Nov 15, from Dhs135, Cultural Foundation
Ministry of Sound Classical When: Nov 7 Dance music, but not as you know it. Ministry of Sound Classical brings some of the biggest dancefloor tunes of the 1990s to life with a spectacular 31-piece orchestra, powerful vocals and an immersive sound and light show. Tracks include Fatboy Slim’s Right Here, Right Now, Faithless’ Insomnia and Darude’s Sandstorm. Need a reason to grab your tickets? Ministry of Sound Classical has sold out at London’s Royal Albert Hall and headlined major music festivals. Nov 7, from Dhs350, Dubai Opera WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 49
CULTURE // EVENT GUIDE
ABU DHABI
LOUD NIGHTS OUT
Hans Zimmer – The Next Level When: Nov 13 Hans Zimmer, the man behind some of cinema’s most unforgettable film scores, is heading to Abu Dhabi. The legendary composer has performed in the UAE several times before, and his shows are a treat for film-score fans. Backed by an orchestra and immersive visuals, the performance will feature some of his iconic compositions, including music from The Lion King, Interstellar, Gladiator, F1 The Movie and more. Nov 13, from Dhs245, Etihad Arena
Ghostly Kisses When: Nov 29 If dreamy, slow-burning indie pop is your thing, you’ll want to know about this one. Canadian singersongwriter Ghostly Kisses, the musical project of Margaux Sauvé, is heading to Abu Dhabi with her signature ethereal vocals, delicate melodies and atmospheric soundscapes. Expect a night of beautifully wistful music that pulls you in and stays with you long after the last note. Nov 29, from Dhs215, Etihad Arena 50 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Jonas Blue live at Bohemia Beach Club When: Nov 7 Get ready for an evening of dance anthems at FIVE Palm Jumeirah as globally acclaimed producer and DJ Jonas Blue takes to the stage with some of his biggest hits. Expect to hear signature tracks such as Fast Car, Perfect Strangers, Rise and more. The night will also feature supporting artists Sam Oui and Anrey, so there’s plenty to look forward to. Nov 7, from Dhs100, Bohemia Beach Club, FIVE Palm Jumeirah
ANOTR live at Playa Pacha When: Nov 13
Adriatique present X When: Nov 14
Love a good house music set? Clear your calendars for November 13, when Dutch house duo ANOTR are due to perform live at Playa Pacha. Imagine dancing to minimal, deeply groovy house music against a backdrop of open-air beachfront views of Ain Dubai and the glittering Arabian Gulf. It’s the kind of night out you’ve been looking forward to. Nov 13, from Dhs210, Playa Pacha, FIVE LUXE JBR
Bringing techno beats and futuristic visuals to Dubai, Swiss duo Adriatique are set to deliver a masterclass in melodic storytelling, perfectly suited to a night under the stars. Expect tracks such as Miracle (with WhoMadeWho), Lost in the Woods (with Elderbrook) and more. Nov 14, from Dhs195, Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience
COMEDIANS Maz Jobrani When: Nov 7
Trevor Noah When: Nov 25, 26, 28 and 29 Marco Carola live at Playa Pacha When: Nov 20 Tech-house pioneer Marco Carola is taking to the decks at Playa Pacha this November, bringing his trademark extended sets and underground club sounds. If there’s one thing to expect, it’s a night of hypnotic grooves. Nov 20, from Dhs150, Playa Pacha, FIVE LUXE JBR
SYNTHONY X Faithless When: Nov 21 A night unlike any other awaits at Bla Bla by McGettigan’s, where SYNTHONY joins forces with Faithless. Expect a highoctane crossover of cinematic orchestral power, nostalgic old-school rave culture and festival-style production. Familiar anthems such as Darude’s Sandstorm, alongside progressive house classics from Swedish House Mafia and more, will get the crowd moving. Nov 21, from Dhs295, Bla Bla by McGettigan’s
DJ ARTBAT When: Nov 28 Ushuaïa Dubai’s third season welcomes Ukrainian electronic music duo ARTBAT, who will bring their renowned UPPERGROUND show and its genre-defying, emotionally charged sound to Dubai Harbour. They’ll be joined by Miss Monique and R3HAB. Nov 28, from Dhs150, Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience
Mark your calendars: South African comedian Trevor Noah is returning to Dubai for four nights at Dubai Opera. With his quick wit, clever storytelling and unique take on global culture, you can expect an evening filled with belly laughs. Nov 25, 26, 28 and 29, from Dhs295, Dubai Opera
Mo Amer When: Nov 6 Fancy an evening filled with hilarity? Comedian and Netflix star Mo Amer is returning to the capital with new material. The Palestinian-American comedian is known for his sharp wit and deeply personal storytelling, so get ready for a night of laughs. Nov 6, Dhs325, Etihad Arena
Global comedy star Maz Jobrani is returning to Abu Dhabi for the final leg of his acclaimed Catch Me While You Can tour. Don’t miss the chance to catch his razorsharp wit, cultural storytelling and laugh-out-loud observations. Nov 7, Dhs275, Etihad Arena
Aries Spears When: Nov 21 MadTV legend Aries Spears is set to make his highly anticipated Abu Dhabi debut on November 21. For more than three decades, the comic has entertained audiences with his rapid-fire humour, fearless crowd work and jaw-dropping celebrity impressions. Expect all that and more when he takes to the stage this month. Nov 21, Dhs120, Etihad Arena
Comedy duo, Jose Manalo & Wally Bayola When: Nov 22 Filipino comedy duo Jose Manalo and Wally Bayola are bringing their unmistakable chemistry and distinctly Filipino humour to Abu Dhabi Comedy Season on November 22 at Etihad Arena. Best known as hosts of the long-running lunchtime variety show Eat Bulaga!, the duo are celebrated for their comedic chemistry, spontaneous street comedy and sharp-witted banter. Filipino comedy fans, this might be one to clear your calendars for. Nov 22, Dhs95, Etihad Arena WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 51
CULTURE // THE ART OF NOVEMBER
Brush up on your plans. It’s going to be an artsy month. WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
A
rt lovers, November is your month. From major art fairs bringing together artists from around the world to creative festivals celebrating design and contemporary art, the UAE’s cultural calendar is bursting. So, grab your gallery buddy and get these dates in your diary. Dubai Design Week When: November 3 to 8, 2026 Where: Dubai Design District (d3) If you want your home to look like a page out of out an interior design magazine, Dubai Design Week is one festival you need to visit. The region’s leading design festival showcases design creations from artists hailing across the globe. Outside, explore d3 which is dotted with creative installations and interactive displays. Visit the Marketplace and shop from the region’s artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses. dubaidesignweek.ae
World Art Dubai
52 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Frieze Abu Dhabi
Dubai Design Week
THE ART OF NOVEMBER
DIFC Art Nights When: November 12 to 15, 2026 Where: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Effortlessly cool DIFC in Dubai takes its wow-factor up a notch with the return of DIFC Art Nights. For four days, the financial district turns into an under-the-star’s art gallery showcasing art and interactive experiences from global and regional artists. There’s also live performances, workshops and community events you can attend for free. Take your time as you wander around and you will discover works of art hidden in plain sight. It’s free to explore. difc.com World Art Dubai When: November 19 to 22, 2026 Where: Dubai World Trade Centre, Za’abeel Halls 2 & 3 Walls at home looking a little dull? This November, World Art Dubai returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre. The MENA region’s largest retail and contemporary art fair is packed with over 10,000 artworks from over 400 galleries and independent artists spanning over 65 countries. Whether you’re after an affordable print or a bigticket statement piece, there’s something for every budget. You can even see art come to life right in front of you. Tickets can be purchased for Dhs30. worldartdubai.com
Frieze Abu Dhabi When: November 19 to 22, 2026 Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat The inaugural Frieze Abu Dhabi art fair takes place this November bringing together galleries, artists, collectors and art-world figures from around the world to Saadiyat Cultural District. The Frieze Abu Dhabi programme will also extend beyond the fair itself, with a major new commission, an exhibition pairing UAE artists and a free Frieze Sculpture programme at Mamsha Beach. There’s also a three-day talks program which will bring artists, curators, museum leaders, collectors and other art-world figures together at Manarat Al Saadiyat. Prices for general admission tickets are Dhs36.75 with multi-day passes available for Dhs173.25. friezeabudhabi.com Nomad Abu Dhabi When: November 18 to 22, 2026 Where: Terminal 1, Old Abu Dhabi Airport Travelling art fair, NOMAD Abu Dhabi returns for its second edition to the capital this November to Terminal 1 of Abu Dhabi’s old airport, transforming the space into a showcase for contemporary art and collectible design. The international art and design platform brings together galleries, designers, artisans and cultural institutions, showcasing everything from distinctive furniture and decorative objects to contemporary artworks and site-specific installations. Each edition takes place in a distinctive architectural setting, with Abu Dhabi’s landmark modernist terminal adding another dimension to the whole experience. Entry is free, but registrations required. nomad-circle.com
YEARS
DATE: NOVEMBER 25, 2026
VENUE: ATLANTIS THE ROYAL
FINALISTS ANNOUNCED
VIEW HERE
Sponsors
EMIRATESWOMAN.COM/AWARDS
Beverage partner
Floral partner
Vote processing partner
Presented by
@emirateswoman
CULTURE // Q&A Talia’s book, The Gifted Garden, is out now.
GROW YOUR OWN WAY
At just 17, Dubai author Talia Rida is turning her own experience of thinking differently into a story about individuality, belonging and learning to grow your own way WORDS: VAARUNYA BHALLA
A
t 17, Dubai author Talia Rida has already turned her own experiences into a children’s book. The Gifted Garden follows six animal friends who discover that their different ways of thinking are what make their garden thrive. Published by Motivate Media Group, it carries a simple message: there is no single right way to learn, think or grow. We caught up with Talia to talk creativity, individuality and finding a place to belong.
Book launch
54 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
What first inspired you to write a book? Was there a particular moment or experience that made you want to share this story? The Gifted Garden came from my own journey. For years I tried to learn the way I thought I was supposed to, until I realised my mind simply worked differently. Once I learned to work with it instead of against it, I wanted every child who thinks differently to feel that, too. From the initial idea to the finished book, what was the creative process like? Was there anything that surprised you along the way? It started as a small seed of an idea and grew into six friends, each with a different way of thinking. What surprised me most was how much of myself I saw in them. Choosing not to label the characters meant showing who they are through what they do. The garden is a place where everyone has a role to play. What does belonging
mean to you, and what do you hope readers take away from the story? To me, belonging means being accepted exactly as you are, without having to become someone else. In the garden, every friend helps in their own way, and that’s why it blooms. I hope readers remember that different doesn’t mean less, and that there’s always a place for them. The UAE is home to people from many different backgrounds and ways of seeing the world. Has that influenced your perspective on individuality and belonging? Definitely. Growing up in the UAE, I’ve been surrounded by people from so many backgrounds, each seeing the world in their own way. It taught me that difference makes a community richer. That idea is at the heart of the garden: it thrives because no two friends are the same. If a young person picks up your book and sees a little of themselves in it, what is the one thing you’d want them to remember? It’s important to remember that your brain does not need “fixing” and you do not have to be like anyone else. You have to work with your mind and learn how to work with it rather than against it. The Gifted Garden is available through leading bookstores across the UAE and online at BooksArabia.com
“YOUR BRAIN DOES NOT NEED ‘FIXING’ AND YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE LIKE ANYONE ELSE”
SPORT | FITNESS | WELLBEING
PA G E 56
Thirty x thrifty How Dubai Fitness Challenge lets you get gains for gratis WHATSON.AE | OCTOBER 2022 55
ACTIVE // DUBAI FITNESS CHALLENGE
30 minutes, zero dirhams Getting fit this November doesn’t need a membership
Dubai Run
WORDS: LANA DU
Dubai Run The city’s busiest road, with no cars on it. Choose between a 5km and a 10km route, both starting near the Museum of the Future and passing Emirates Towers, Dubai Opera and Burj Khalifa. The 5km is easily walkable if running isn’t your thing. Register in advance, then collect your bib and T-shirt from Zabeel Park beforehand. Where: Sheikh Zayed Road, near the Museum of the Future When: Sunday, November 22, from 6.30am Visit: dubaifitnesschallenge.com
T
hirty minutes a day, thirty days, zero dirhams. November is giving you little excuse to not move, and since it’s all free, neither is your bank balance. With Dubai Fitness Challenge making the whole city your gym, car-free roads, park tracks, a beach fitness village and free community classes are all part of the plan. Run, walk, stretch, swim or turn up to a class – however you choose to move, here’s where to go, when, and what you need to book.
Dubai Stand Up Paddle
Dubai Stand Up Paddle Hatta Dam hosts two days of free paddleboarding, kayaking and paddleboard yoga. Never stood on a board? Coached beginner sessions run alongside open water time for those who have experience. Hatta is around 90 minutes’ drive from central Dubai, so make a morning of it. Where: Hatta Dam, Hatta When: Saturday, November 7 and Sunday, November 8, from 10.30am Visit: @dubaifitnesschallenge 56 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
Dubai Yoga The challenge closes with a mass yoga session on its final day, open to complete beginners and regulars alike, with wellness activities alongside. Where: The Gate, DIFC When: Sunday, November 29, afternoon Visit: @dubaifitnesschallenge
ALL MONTH DP World 30x30 Fitness Village, Kite Beach The challenge’s main beach hub has free football, basketball, padel, yoga, Pilates and spinning, plus zones for strength training, combat sports and group workouts. There’s enough on to do something different on every visit, and a family zone for children. Where: Kite Beach, Jumeirah When: Until November 29 Visit: @dubaifitnesschallenge
Zabeel Park Boxing, MMA, HIIT, yoga and Pilates, plus bookable sports courts and activities for children. It’s also where Dubai Run bibs are collected, so you can combine the two trips. Where: Zabeel Park, Gate 2, Al Kifaf When: Until November 29 Visit: @dubaifitnesschallenge
Dubai Ride
Zabeel Ladies Club A women-only programme of free fitness and wellbeing sessions for the full month, in a private setting. Open to women and girls aged 13 and over, whether you’re starting out or training regularly. Prebooking is required. Where: Zabeel Ladies Club, Zabeel When: Until November 29, 7am to 10pm Visit: zlc.ae
Zabeel Ladies Club
METROFITT Business Village
Al Warqa’a Park
METROFITT Business Village
Al Warqa’a Park
For anyone who can only train after work. Free instructor-led group classes, functional training and fitness challenges run every evening, pitched at a range of levels. Where: Business Village, Deira When: Until November 29, 6pm to 9pm Visit: metrofitt.com
A 2.8km track for running, walking and cycling, with free classes, basketball, tennis, volleyball and football alongside. There are dedicated sessions for children, which makes it a practical option for families in Mirdif and Al Warqa’a. Where: Al Warqa’a Park, Al Warqa’a When: Until November 29 Visit: @dubaifitnesschallenge WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 57
ACTIVE // DUBAI FITNESS CHALLENGE
LIMITED RUNS Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark (children) A week of free swimming lessons in the Wave Pool for children aged five and above. Sessions cover beginner and intermediate swimming, stroke technique, water confidence and safety, with two instructor-led classes each morning. Pre-booking is required. Where: Grand Hyatt Dubai, Umm Hurair 2 When: November 2 to 8, 8am to 10am Contact: grandhyattdubaiwaterpark.com
Wasl Green Park Group classes, daily children’s sessions and workouts for different fitness levels. Walking and rolling tracks are accessible to wheelchair and pushchair users. Pre-booking is required. Where: Wasl Green Park, Ras Al Khor When: November 7 to 13, 8am to 9.30pm Contact: 054 479 2792
Q East
JLT Park
JLT Park
Wasl Village
The programme changes daily, with different classes, sports and competitions each day and activities for children alongside. Some competitions come with prizes. Check the day’s schedule before you go. Where: JLT Park, behind Cluster Q, Jumeirah Lakes Towers When: November 9 to 15, 7am to 9pm Contact: jlt.ae
No booking needed. Turn up for yoga, Pilates or a group workout, while children have dance and games. Walking and rolling tracks are accessible to wheelchair and pushchair users. Where: Wasl Village, Al Qusais When: November 14 to 20, 8am to 10pm Contact: 054 479 2792
JA Sports & Shooting Club
JA Sports & Shooting Club
Wasl Green Park
Seven days of free coached sessions in golf, tennis, football, cricket, padel and shooting, for a range of ages and abilities. Shooting is the rare one here – it’s not often you can try it for free. Prebooking is required. Where: JA Sports & Shooting Club, Jebel Ali When: November 9 to 15, from 6am; timings vary by activity Contact: @jasportsdxb
Q East Fitness, movement and wellness classes across the courtyard and indoor studios at FITCODE, from morning to night. There are activities for children aged five and above, and a dedicated children’s area, Nestt. No pre-booking needed. Where: Q East, Al Quoz When: November 14 to 29, 7am to 10pm Contact: qeast. alphabeta.ae
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark (children)
Rixos The Palm Dubai
Rixos The Palm Dubai Training first, recovery second. Sessions of 30 to 40 minutes cover CrossFit, TRX, cycling and aqua circuits, followed by redlight yoga, sound healing and ice baths. Sessions run on selected days only and must be booked. Where: Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites, Palm Jumeirah When: November 7 to 21, 9am to 6pm Contact: 058 659 4189, rixos.com 58 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
•Register: Dubai Ride and Dubai Run are free, but places must be booked in advance at dubaifitnesschallenge.com. •Book ahead: Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark, Wasl Green Park, Rixos The Palm, JA Sports & Shooting Club and Zabeel Ladies Club.
•Just turn up: Wasl Village, Q East, METROFITT and JLT Park. •Collect your kit: Dubai Run bibs and T-shirts are handed out at Zabeel Park. •Leave the car: Sheikh Zayed Road closes for Ride and Run, so take the Metro.
Full schedules and registration at dubaifitnesschallenge.com
EMIRATESWOMAN.COM @emirateswoman
DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS
xxx PA G E 65
Serene Marina
Explore the irresistable allure of Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi WE ENJOY RED SEA STROLLS AT RIXOS MURJANA p62 AN ABU DHABI STAYCATION WHERE STYLE AND SUBSTANCE MEET p63 THE WHAT’S ON LOCK IN IS BACK, FIND OUT WHAT WENT DOWN WHEN WE TOOK OVER INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI p66 WHATSON.AE | OCTOBER 2022 61
TRAVEL // STAYCATION
Rixos Murjana Saudi Arabia’s supersized Red Sea resort puts families first, without leaving the grownups behind WORDS: AFRAH BARI
S
audi Arabia has had a stellar year for hotel openings, with a steady stream of new properties arriving across the Kingdom. But one that may have slipped under your radar amid all the glitzy openings is Rixos Murjana, and we are here to right that wrong. Here, those family holiday dreams actually come to life. The kids are splashing away in one of eight pools (four in the waterpark, mind you), keeping busy at the Rixy Kids’ Club, or perhaps hanging out at the separate teens’ club. And you can finally exhale… Ideal for families and couples after a more laid-back getaway, the resort invites you to take a breath and forget about rushed travel itineraries and early morning wake-up calls.
THE LOCATION Located in King Abdullah Economic City, around one hour and 15 minutes by car from Jeddah, Rixos Murjana is the Kingdom’s largest fully integrated ultra all-inclusive resort. Set along the Red Sea, the sprawling resort covers 275,000 square metres, putting plenty of distance between you and the city buzz.
THE DESIGN Walk around the property and you’ll see Hijazi-inspired architecture, drawing on the traditional building style of western Saudi Arabia. Think substantial masonry, coral-stone influences and intricate wooden latticework windows known as roshans, particularly fitting in this breezy Red Sea setting.
THE ROOMS The property is home to 488 rooms and suites, plus 33 luxury villas, including five adults-only, Maldivian-esque overwater villas. For our two-night stay, we checked into a Senior Suite with a partial sea view. It quickly became our quiet retreat once the 62 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
to peel yourself away from the waterpark. For something more energetic, chargeable watersports operated by 17Sixty include jet skiing, wakeboarding, inflatable rides, Seabobs, e-foiling, transparent kayaking and miniboat experiences.
THE FOOD day’s activities were done, where we kept the party going long after the resort had seemingly been tucked in for the night. Our version of a party, admittedly, involved little more than a book and a quiet corner.
THE ACTIVITIES The crown jewel is the integrated Murjana Waterpark. Spanning 42,000 square metres, it features 11 rides and slides, a wave pool, an adventure river, family rides and dedicated kids’ water play areas. But this isn’t a waterpark designed only to keep the kids occupied. Some of the bigger slides had us screaming at the top of our lungs, and entirely voluntarily, too. The resort is also home to what it bills as the longest swimming pool in the Middle East open to visitors of all ages, alongside a dedicated adults-only pool. You wouldn’t necessarily expect the spa at such a family-centric property to be this extensive, but Anjana Spa is a welcome surprise. The Turkish-inspired wellness space draws on rituals and treatments dating back to the Ottoman era, with earthy interiors leading towards an outdoor mixed pool. Better still, our treatment delivered one of the best massages we’ve had at a resort spa, providing a very good reason
We mostly stuck with the all-day dining restaurant Terra Mare during our stay, alongside small bites and drinks at Godiva Café. For something more relaxed, the bohochic Solara Beach Club serves sliders and light bites poolside throughout the day. And after an afternoon at the waterpark, the quick bites at Seafarer’s Catch were calling our name. We’d recommend the sweet chilli crispy chicken wrap. What can we say? Fried chicken and swimming just go together.
THE FINAL SAY Rixos Murjana may place families front and centre, but adults are far from an afterthought. Between its 600-metre beach access, overwater walkway, adultsonly pool and excellent spa, there are plenty of opportunities to step away from the waterpark energy. Come for the scale and family-friendly facilities; stay because the resort remembers that grown-ups need a holiday, too.
WHAT’S ON THE BILL Room rates start at approximately AED2,198 for a Superior Room with twin beds and Murjana Waterpark access, rising to approximately AED22,518 for Villa La Mer with waterpark access. Where: King Abdullah Economic City
TRAVEL // STAYCATION
Fairmont The Palm
A resort stay where the kids get their dream holiday and the adults get one, too WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE
S
ome family hotels are brilliant for the kids. Others are better suited to adults. Fairmont The Palm manages to make both groups feel like they’ve won. From the moment we walked into our room, the place had us. The view took our breath away: the resort stretched out in front of us, opening onto the sea, with the living room directly ahead and the suite splitting left and right, with the master bedroom on one side and the kids’ sleeping area on the other. It was a pretty good start.
THE SPA This was the other major highlight. While the kids were happily occupied at the club, my wife and I had a couples massage at Serenity Spa, followed by time in the thermal facilities. The rain shower, sauna and steam room felt a million miles from the stresses of everyday life. By the end, my mind was clear and we were properly relaxed. That’s what made the whole stay work so well. The kids were having the time of their lives while mum and dad were doing exactly the same thing – just somewhere much quieter.
THE RESORT The pools are spectacular. The main pool is split into several zones, giving families plenty of space to find their own patch, and we spent a lot of time in the water. Then there’s the beach, just a short stroll away. We had a cabana, played in the sand and sea, and ate lunch beside the water. With the sun out and the children happily occupied, it was about as close to holiday bliss as you can get without leaving Dubai. We also made the most of BASK at West Beach, ordering lunch by the shoreline, which added another layer to the beach club experience.
THE KIDS The Falcons Kids’ Club deserves a special mention. It was genuinely one of the best kids’ clubs we’ve experienced, with so much for the children to do that they were more than happy to disappear for an hour or two. And that gave mum and dad something rather valuable: uninterrupted time. Knowing the kids were having a great time and being properly looked after meant we could head to the spa without a second thought. For a family staycation, that’s a pretty big deal.
THE FOOD & DRINK Fairmont calls its dining offering a “Gastronomical Kaleidoscope”. Classic hotel marketing speak, perhaps, but in this case it’s actually pretty accurate. Breakfast at
Flow Kitchen, casual lunch at Blowfish, afternoon tea at Mashrabiya Lounge and dinner at Little Miss India gave us four completely different experiences without leaving the resort. Seagrill was another favourite, with fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere that made us feel like we’d somehow been transported to Greece. Frevo was every bit as good as I remembered from other churrascaria experiences. I’ve said this before, but I’ll say it again: this is Dubai’s best churrasco, in my opinion. The meat keeps coming, the atmosphere is lively and there’s something wonderfully excessive about the whole experience. Then there was Little Miss India. Indian food this elevated isn’t something you come across every day. We arrived curious and left genuinely amazed. The flavours, presentation and whole experience felt unlike any Indian restaurant I’ve experienced before. It was easily one of the culinary highlights of the stay – and somewhere we simply have to go back to. Even afternoon tea had the kids sitting still. An eight-year-old and three-year-old managing that is some achievement. It helped that they loved everything on offer. So did we.
THE EXPERIENCE The service was exactly what you’d expect from Fairmont: polished, warm and attentive. What stood out was how effortlessly attentive it felt. There seemed to be someone everywhere whenever you needed something, but never in an intrusive way. Things simply happened. That made the whole property feel remarkably easy to navigate, particularly with two children in tow.
THE FINAL SAY At the risk of veering into hyperbole territory, this is genuine family luxury. The kids get extraordinary pools, a brilliant kids’ club, beach time and enough food to keep them interested. The adults get exceptional dining, a superb spa and plenty of opportunities to switch off. Put it all together and you get the rarest thing of all: a family holiday where everyone genuinely has the best time. We couldn’t wait to go back when we left. And we will.
THE DETAILS
Location: Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Contact: (04) 457 3388; @fairmontthepalm WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 63
REGISTER HERE
FIND OUT MORE
FOR EVENT SPONSORSHIP, REGISTRATIONS AND GENERAL ENQUIRIES nitika.sharma@motivate.ae | lina.abdelaziz@motivate.ae
WhatsOn.ae
Sponsor
Beverage Partner
WhatsOnAbuDhabi
Printing Partner
Vote Processing Partner
#WOAwards
Structural Partner
Presented By
TRAVEL // STAYCATION
and lighter bites. There’s enough variety to move easily between dinner, poolside drinks and whatever takes your fancy in between.
THE ACTIVITIES The Exclusive Sports Club offers everything from the gym and paddleboarding to yoga, tennis, CrossFit and aqua boxing, alongside a beachside wellness programme. Families arguably have the strongest hand. Rixy Kids Club runs supervised activities for children aged four to 12, complemented by a kids’ pool and Aqua Tower with slides and splash experiences. When all that activity begins to feel unnecessarily industrious, Naturelife Spa provides the antidote, with a steam room, sauna and relaxation areas alongside traditional Turkish hammam treatments and massages.
Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi
Big on facilities, food and family appeal, this waterfront resort makes staying put remarkably easy WORDS: THOMAS WOODGATE
T
here are staycations built around escaping the city, and others that simply give you enough reasons to temporarily forget about it. Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi falls firmly into the latter camp. Sitting between Abu Dhabi’s Corniche and the Arabian Gulf, its instantly recognisable waterfront tower combines the scale of a city resort with pools, beach time, restaurants and enough activities to make venturing beyond the property feel like an optional activity.
THE SETTING There’s nothing shy about Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi. The architecture takes cues from Arabic and Turkish influences, with a location framed by water and the Abu Dhabi cityscape. You’re unmistakably in the capital, but a day spent between the beach, pools and restaurants quickly puts the city at arm’s length. This isn’t the secluded-island version of an Abu Dhabi staycation. Instead, it pairs the convenience of an urban address with the facilities of a full-scale resort.
THE ROOM
THE EXPERIENCE
Accommodation runs from Superior Rooms to sprawling multi-bedroom suites, with views across either Abu Dhabi’s skyline and Corniche or the Arabian Gulf. Sea View rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, while larger suites add separate living areas and, in selected categories, balconies with views to boot. The design combines Arabian references with contemporary finishes. Families are well catered for, with options including adjoining bedrooms and some larger suites featuring entertainment rooms with PlayStations and premium sound systems.
What makes Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi persuasive as a staycation is how much you can do without allowing the weekend to become complicated. There’s water, sport, wellness, family entertainment and enough dining choice to keep everyone occupied. It’s less about disappearing somewhere quiet for 48 hours and more about giving yourself permission to check in and stay there.
THE FOOD There’s plenty to work through. Vero Italiano handles classic Italian cooking, People’s Restaurant puts Turkish dishes front and centre, while Hashi takes Japanese dining to the 38th floor, pairing dinner with panoramic views. Casual options include The Bakery Club, pool bars and snack kiosks, while Infinity Lounge operates around the clock for drinks
THE FINAL SAY A proper resort experience without leaving Abu Dhabi behind. Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi goes big on choice, whether that means restaurants, activities, family entertainment or simply finding a spot beside the water and doing absolutely nothing. For a staycation where the hotel is the destination, that’s rather the point.
THE DETAILS Marina City Ring Road, Abu Dhabi. Tel: 02 498 0000. @rixosmarinaabudhabi WHATSON.AE | NOVEMBER 2026 65
WHAT WENT DOWN
WHAT’S ON ABU DHABI AT
LOCK-IN
INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI A look back at the food, fun and festivities from our latest What’s On Lock-In
T
he latest What’s On Lock-In took over InterContinental Abu Dhabi last month for an all-inclusive weekend packed with food, fun and plenty more. From Saturday, October 3 to Sunday, October 4, guests enjoyed a full programme of activities without having to leave the hotel. Guests could test their skills and smarts on Red Bull Simulator Racing and Prison Island’s puzzle box. Crafty side quests were available care of FoscArt. There were mini-spa treatments courtesy of InterContinental Abu Dhabi and the chance to glam up at a special discount with Cayenne Beauty Salon. The little ones let their imaginations run free with lightbox painting through KidzFactory before everyone headed to brunch at Chamas Churrascaria. There was a DJ-led after-party, prizes from Udora, welcome hampers packed with goodies from CHUNK, Clinique, The Entertainer, and Sisters Beauty Lounge. Seven Wellness held a sound healing session with LUSH take-homes, and a recovery breakfast for those in need. These are just some of the snaps from the big event. Make sure your’re following us on socials so you don’t miss the next one.
66 NOVEMBER 2026 | WHATSON.AE
UAE.WE KEEP BUILDING BIGGER
AT THE WORLD'S LARGEST Sta rt up & INVESTOR T N E V E R O T C E N N O C GET YOUR TICKET
#EXPANDNORTHSTAR EXPANDNORTHSTAR.COM
BOOK NOW
TAT T U R E STAU R A N T D U BA I . M E
F O L LOW U S @TAT T U D U BA I
A N EL E VAT ED E X P R ES SI O N
L E V EL 74 , L E V EL 8 1 ,
O F M O D ER N A SI A N D I N I N G
C I EL TOW ER , D U BA I M A R I N A