14 MEET THE HERD A behind-the-scenes camel dairy farm experience
that’s open to all
16 FUTURE READY
The UAE’s top STEM activities where learning feels like play
26 STEAK FRITES
Where to find Dubai’s best steak frites
22 DUBAI REVIEWS
Modern Indian cuisine by an award-winning chef at Rooh by Priya; and perfect pastrami sarnies at Hudson & Rye
24 ABU DHABI REVIEWS
Yakitori, sushi and highballs at Niri; and a first taste of Berenjak’s new branch in the capital
28 GET BAKED
Discover Dubai’s newest bakeries, meet the talented bakers behind them and find the must-try creations everyone is talking about
61 TRAVEL
62 SHELF DISCOVERY
Forget tourist traps – a strip-lit supermarket is the best cultural experience there is
64 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHTS
WhatsOn.ae
40 EVENT GUIDE
From the biggest sporting action to mega musicals, we round up all the exciting events still to come in 2026
50 ESPORTS WORLD CUP
From Riyadh to Paris, the Esports World Cup heads to Europe and What’s On had a backstage pass
52 INDOOR FITNESS
From aquarium yoga to mall marathons, here’s how to stay moving through the UAE’s hottest month
56 BANYA BLISS
Sauna rituals, cold plunge and Slavic dining – inside the wonderfully wacky world of Banya Forrest
58 PICKLEBALL ERA
Step aside padel – pickleball has arrived in Dubai. Here’s where to dink in the city
A trifecta of superb summer staycations worth adding to your list
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. What’s On
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Cover: Sheila Deocareza
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer
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EDITORIAL
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| WHATSON.AE
FRIDGE-WORTHY
Something odd has happened in the What’s On offices this month: we’ve started talking about 2027. Not in a worried, where-did-the-year-go way – more in a genuinely-can’t-wait way. Because when we sat down to map out what’s still to come in 2026, the list got long. Then longer. Then it became a 10-page special.
You’ll find it starting on page 40: all the gigs, concerts, sporting spectacles and familyfriendly fun that will ensure this year ends on a considerable high. The one I’ve already circled? Christina Aguilera in concert. What. A. Voice. I’ll be there, and I suspect I won’t be the only one singing along to Fighter with questionable accuracy.
But as Garth Algar once said in Wayne’s World, you’ve got to “live in the now”. And right now, in the midst of summer, families across this great country of ours are making the most of the school break. Which brings me to a dilemma every parent knows well: family time equals quality time, but – and I speak from experience here – whenever family plans are made, there’s invariably one child who isn’t happy. In the Woodgate household there’s a five-year age gap between our two, which means every day out is less a plan and more a negotiation. Getting multiple children to align is tricky to say the least, and whichever way you go, you can be sure the parents are sacrificing their own enjoyment for the sake of the little ones.
Well, we’ve spotted the problem and we’re offering a solution: the ultimate family activities that every. single. person. will get on board with – whatever their age and whatever the age gap. I can assure you the feature (starting on page 8) will be stuck to the fridge in the Woodgate household by the time you read this.
And if all that negotiating works up an appetite, our seven-page guide to Dubai’s best bakeries is an utterly delicious must-read – a real insider’s view of the city’s finest, including conversations with the baking geniuses behind them. Consider your weekend croissant plans sorted.
Whatever your summer plans, and whatever the rest of the year holds for you and yours, I hope this issue earns a place on your fridge, too.
Enjoy the issue.
THOMAS WOODGATE GROUP CONTENT DIRECTOR
TEAM’S POV
We answer the questions you didn’t even ask.
Where are you jetting off to this summer?
Aarti Saundalkar Arts & Culture Features Editor
“Returning to the Netherlands. My plan was simple: attend the Dutch GP and head home. But what started as a weekend trip has turned into a 10-day adventure, with pitstops in The Hague, Haarlem and Leiden.”
Lana Du Reporter
“Croatia. I’m excited to finally see the crystal-clear waters it’s famous for. I’ll also be there during one of the biggest electronic music festivals of the summer, with some of my favourite DJs on the lineup, so it’ll be a beach-by-day, partyby-night kind of trip.”
Sheila Deocareza Art Director
“Japan, without a doubt. It’s my favourite destination to visit with my family, and we can’t wait to explore Tokyo and Kyoto, experience the culture, and try all the incredible food.”
P U T Y O U R T E A M W O R K
T O T H E T E S T
There’s something about an escape room that brings out everyone’s competitive side. One person is searching for clues, someone else is trying to crack the code, while another family member insists they’ve figured out the answer already. It’s one of those rare activities where everyone has to work together, and it’s just as fun for adults as it is for older children and teenagers. With themes ranging from mystery adventures to prison breaks, no two experiences are ever the same, and you’ll probably be talking about who solved the final clue long after you’ve escaped.
DUBAI Dubai has plenty of escape room experiences to choose from. Game Over has branches at Palm Jumeirah Mall and Dubai Festival City Mall, making it a great option whether you’re on the coast near Marina or closer to Downtown. You’ll also find immersive experiences at NoWayOut and Phobia Dubai in JLT, each offering different themed rooms for families looking for a challenge.
ABU DHABI Families in the capital can head to Prison Island Abu Dhabi, located in Abu Dhabi Mall, where instead of completing one escape room, you’ll tackle a series of physical and mental challenges together. It’s ideal for competitive families who love solving puzzles while racing against the clock.
H I T T
H E G R E E N S T O G E T H E R
You don’t need to be a golfer to enjoy this one. Modern golf experiences are designed for everyone, whether you’re swinging a club for the very first time or trying to beat Dad’s high score. Interactive games, food, music and a relaxed atmosphere mean it’s just as much about spending time together as it is about perfecting your swing. It’s a great option during the cooler evenings, especially if you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy.
DUBAI For a lively atmosphere, Topgolf Dubai at Emirates Golf Club remains a family favourite, with interactive games suitable for all skill levels. If you prefer staying indoors, Five Iron Golf at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi combines golf simulators with food and drinks – a fun choice whatever the weather.
ABU DHABI If you’re spending the day on Yas Island, head to Yas Links Abu Dhabi, where the driving range offers families the chance to practise together while overlooking the waterfront.
E X P L O R E O N T W O W H E E L S
Sometimes the simplest family days are the best ones. Pack a few snacks, grab some water and spend the morning cycling together. It’s an easy way to explore a different part of the city while enjoying the outdoors, and with dedicated cycling tracks across both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, there’s something suitable for every age. Even better, you don’t need to own a bike. Rental stations make it easy to turn a spontaneous outing into a memorable family adventure.
DUBAI Download the Careem app to rent bikes at selected locations across the city, including Dubai Marina and Kite Beach. If you’re after longer rides, Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park and Al Qudra Cycle Track are perfect for families with older children looking to spend a few hours outdoors.
ABU DHABI Hudayriyat Island is one of the capital’s best cycling destinations, with dedicated bike tracks, beachfront cafés and plenty of open space for families to enjoy. Yas Marina Circuit also hosts regular community cycling evenings, giving families the chance to ride on a Formula One track together.
L E T O F F S O M E S T E A M
If your family enjoys doing something a little different, this one’s for you. Forget trying to keep everything spotless – here, the whole point is to make a mess. Suit up in protective gear, grab a baseball bat and smash everything from plates and bottles to old TVs and printers. It’s a surprisingly satisfying way to release some energy, have a laugh and do something completely out of the ordinary together. Older children and teenagers will love the novelty, while adults might secretly enjoy it even more. Just check minimum age requirements before booking, as sessions are typically designed for older kids and up.
DUBAI The original The Smash Room in Al Quoz lets families choose from a variety of smash packages, with everything from glassware to electronics waiting to be destroyed. It’s an ideal indoor activity for a hot summer afternoon when everyone needs to get involved.
ABU DHABI The fun continues in the capital with The Smash Room Abu Dhabi, offering the same adrenaline-filled experience. Book a family session, suit up together and see who can cause the most destruction before the timer runs out.
G E T C R E A T I V E T O G E T H E R
Not every family day out has to be action packed. Sometimes slowing things down and making something with your own hands can be just as rewarding. Pottery has become one of the biggest trends, and many studios now welcome beginners of all ages. Whether you’re painting ready-made ceramics or learning to throw clay on a wheel, it’s a chance to switch off, get creative and take home a handmade souvenir to remember the day by.
DUBAI Creative families are spoiled for choice, especially in Al Quoz, which has become one of Dubai’s go-to destinations for pottery. Yadawei Ceramic Studio, The Mud House Studio and Studio Thirteen are all located in the neighbourhood, so there’s no shortage of places to try your hand at the pottery wheel. If you’re closer to Dubai Marina or JLT, Dubai Pottery Studio also offers classes that are perfect for families looking to get creative together.
ABU DHABI The capital has plenty for budding potters too. Abu Dhabi Pottery Studio on Al Dabbas Street offers pottery wheel throwing and workshops led by experienced instructors. With sessions suitable for beginners as well as more experienced potters, it’s a great place for families to get handson and create something to take home.
H E A D O U T O N T H E W A T E R
A day on the water offers a completely different way to experience the UAE. Whether you’re paddling through mountain scenery or quietly exploring mangrove forests, kayaking is one of those activities that encourages everyone to slow down and enjoy the surroundings. It’s active without being too challenging, and well suited to families with older children who enjoy spending time outdoors.
DUBAI Fancy escaping the city for a few hours? Head to Hatta – around a 90-minute drive from Dubai, but well worth it – and rent a kayak or pedal boat to explore the waters of Hatta Dam, surrounded by stunning mountain views, the perfect swap for Dubai’s skyline. Short on time? Crystal Clear Watersports at Palm Jumeirah offers guided kayaking tours through the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, an easy family adventure without leaving the city.
ABU DHABI Discover a different side of the capital with a kayaking adventure through Jubail Mangrove Park, where you can paddle through peaceful waterways and spot local wildlife along the way. For something extra special, Louvre Abu Dhabi also hosts Full Moon Kayaking on selected evenings, offering families a unique chance to explore the museum’s waterfront beneath the moonlight.
P A C K A P I C N I C
You don’t always need tickets or reservations to have a great family day out. Sometimes all it takes is a picnic blanket, a few homemade snacks and somewhere with plenty of space for the kids to run around. Add a football, a deck of cards or a frisbee, and you’ve got an easy, affordable day that everyone can enjoy.
DUBAI Some of the city’s best picnic spots include Al Safa Park, Zabeel Park and Mushrif National Park, where you’ll find playgrounds, barbecue areas and plenty of green space. If you’d rather stay by the sea, head to Kite Beach and spend the day swimming, cycling or simply relaxing by the water.
ABU DHABI In the capital, Umm Al Emarat Park is a favourite for families thanks to its gardens, splash areas and regular events, while Hudayriyat Beach combines open green spaces with cafés, cycling tracks and waterfront views. It’s proof that the best family memories don’t need a ticket at all – just good company and a little time together.
D I S C O V E R S O M E T H I N G N E W
The best family days out are often the ones where everyone learns something new without even realising it. Interactive museums, aquariums and immersive attractions make it easy to keep children engaged while giving adults plenty to enjoy too. They’re also a great option when the weather is too hot to spend the day outdoors.
DUBAI Near Downtown Dubai? Head to Dubai Mall, where you can spend hours exploring Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo before stepping into the colourful, immersive worlds of House of Hype. Just minutes away, The Green Planet lets families discover a tropical rainforest filled with sloths, birds and exotic wildlife. Or head to Bluewaters Island to visit Illusion City, where mind-bending exhibits and upside-down photo opportunities guarantee a good laugh.
ABU DHABI At The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, families can explore thousands of marine animals through themed zones and interactive experiences. Art lovers can also spend a few hours wandering through Louvre Abu Dhabi, where family-friendly exhibitions and children’s activities make culture accessible for all ages.
S P E N D T H E D A Y A T A T H E M E P A R K
Some family outings are all about making memories, and you can’t go wrong with a theme park. Whether you’re chasing rollercoasters, meeting your favourite cartoon characters or cooling off on water slides, there’s enough to keep every age entertained from morning until evening. The hardest part will be deciding which ride to queue for first.
DUBAI Dubai has something for every type of thrill seeker. Aquaventure World at Atlantis The Palm is packed with water slides, splash zones and lazy rivers, while IMG Worlds of Adventure brings Marvel superheroes, Cartoon Network characters and dinosaur adventures together under one roof. Movie lovers can spend the day at Motiongate Dubai at Dubai Parks and Resorts, where Hollywoodinspired rides and live shows make it easy to lose track of time.
ABU DHABI Yas Island is home to some of the UAE’s biggest attractions. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers everything from family rides to record-breaking rollercoasters, while Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi lets visitors step into the worlds of Batman, Bugs Bunny and ScoobyDoo. When temperatures rise, Yas Waterworld is the perfect place to cool off with more than 40 rides and attractions – and it’s just broken a Guinness World Record for the most slides, but are we even surprised?
Milking it
Heritage, science and a fair amount of nosenuzzling – why a morning at the world’s largest camel farm is Dubai at its most genuine
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
Twenty minutes from the city centre, a right turn just before the Sevens Stadium, and a long sandy road opens onto something that looks suspiciously like a university campus. Then you spot a run of camel sculptures, and beyond them, stretching as far as the eye can see, rows of open-air stables. This is Camelicious HQ, the world’s largest camel dairy farm, and a visit here turns out to be one of the most charmingly unexpected mornings you’ll spend in this city.
Camelicious opened in 2006 with 23 camels and a fairly audacious idea: that camel milk, long a Bedouin staple, could become a modern, exportable superfood. Twenty years on, the farm has ballooned to nearly 7,000 camels and a 500-strong team, and it’s opened its gates to the public with a guided tour that hands ordinary visitors a backstage pass to the whole operation: the milking stations, the production plant, the tasting room and a meet-and-greet with the camels themselves.
MEET THE HERD
Make no mistake, this isn’t a camel-ride outfit. This is a working farm, which makes the encounter all the better. Arrive for the early 8am slot and you’ll catch the milking in full swing from an air-conditioned viewing room – camels filing in one by one to their own designated stalls with the unbothered confidence of regulars at a coffee shop, all wrapped up in about 20 minutes before the herd heads out for an 8km walk with their calves.
The pampering, it turns out, is not a metaphor. Females get a bath roughly once a month, not just because they love it, but to help keep ectoparasites at bay. They’re walked daily for exercise, and every calf gets its mother’s milk exclusively for its first month to build immunity. Each animal wears an ID tag logging its full health and productivity history, and regular veterinary care, balanced nutrition and a comfortable living area round out the routine. This place has been called a five-star hotel for animals, and it’s pretty spot on.
Then it’s feeding time. Hand a carrot to a camel and you’ll understand instantly why visitors keep comparing them to oversized pups. They lean in for neck scratches, angle their ears toward you like satellite dishes, and occasionally attempt an affectionate nibble on your nose. You won’t want to leave.
FROM FARM TO FRIDGE
The tour then moves into the production plant, where approximately three million litres of camel milk are transformed each year into a range of products. Fresh camel milk is produced for the UAE market, going from farm to table within 48 hours, while camel milk powder is shipped internationally.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Tours run daily, last about 90 minutes, and include the farm walk, camel feeding and tastings.
And then, the tasting. Fresh camel milk tends to surprise first-timers: it’s thinner and lighter than cow’s milk, with a clean, faintly sweet flavour and a mineral, slightly salty finish that fans compare to a good skimmed milk with more personality. It’s also had a real moment nutritionally, prized for being naturally lower in fat and lactose than cow’s milk while carrying a dense hit of vitamins and immune-supporting proteins.
From there, the flavour line gets properly regional, where saffron, dates and a newly launched local honey edition sit alongside more universally crowd-pleasing strawberry and chocolate versions – the latter, reportedly, converting even committed sceptics. We can confirm there are several bottles in our fridge right now.
Where: Camelicious, Dubai–Al Ain Road (Exit 26), Umm Nahad 3
When: Daily, 8am and 5pm
Cost: Dhs100 (adults), Dhs80 (children); family summer package Dhs200 (two adults, two children)
Contact: camelicious.ae/pages/farm-tour
As a child, the summer school holidays seemed like they’d last forever, didn’t they? Halcyon days of trips to the shops and frosty ice pops that stretched towards a forever horizon. They can also feel like that as a parent, too. And finding ways to fill that time with the right balance of touching grass, freeing little eyes from big screens, and cramming in a little covert education is a daunting task. To help you fill this yawning void, we’ve put together some of our favourite UAE STEM (that’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) activities that tip the scales from formal to fun, to help kids learn and burn calories.
How to sneak a sprinkle of education magic onto fun family activities this summer
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
Still a relatively new addition to Saadiyat’s rich tapestry of culture, this emporium of objets d’awe is essentially a hands-on historical record of life, the universe and everything. Here children can explore dinosaurs, fossils, evolution, space, ecosystems and the natural history of the Arabian Peninsula through immersive displays and interactive technology. The exhibitions take enquiring minds on a factmaxxing tour through the Big Bang, formation of the solar system, UAE fossil discoveries, biodiversity and the science of environmental resilience. The museum also uses digital tools, AI, theatrical shows, and STEM workshops to help consolidate the learning.
Visitors under 18 currently enter free. Adults Dhs70. @nhm_abudhab
STEM sell: Biology, geology, palaeontology, astronomy and environmental science.
Fun factor: Giant skeletons, fossils, prehistoric predators and immersive theatre.
Al Quoz, Dubai
One location that’s always found amongst our top picks for sneaking some secret STEM learning into the school break is OliOli. Inside the Al Quoz funtropolis, you’ll find eight experiential galleries, each offering its own uniquely enthralling hands-on edutainment challenges. From building pneumatic rockets to diving into the fun side of fluid dynamics (sounds unlikely, we know, but true) and conducting an orchestra of holographic sea creatures. It’s a day of play that’s best suited to kids aged between two and six years old (though toddlers over 12 months have their own zone, and children up to 16 can enter the main galleries). Tickets from Dhs169 for two hours. olioli.ae
STEM sell: Engineering, physics, design and experimentation.
Fun factor: Children are splashing, building, firing air cannons and testing inventions without necessarily realising they are learning.
Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion
Expo City Dubai
The majesty that was EXPO 2020 may be firmly in the rearview mirror now, but the memories and its legacy still live large in Dubai. And, in the heart of the iconic site, some of the event’s most ambitious pavilions are still sharing their important stories. At Terra, children can travel through immersive ecosystems, investigate humanity’s impact on the planet and explore ideas involving energy, water, biodiversity, climate and sustainable design. The experience is deliberately playful and designed with children in mind. The perfect spot for your little Terras this summer.
Terra also runs demonstrations, scientific experiments, gamified activities and workshops throughout the year, including hands-on sessions built around nature and sustainability. Adults Dhs100, kids Dhs50. @visitterra.ae
STEM sell: Ecology, climate science, renewable energy and sustainable engineering. Fun factor: Underground forests, interactive games and dramatic immersive environments.
Children’s City
Dubai Creek Park
Children’s City, by Dubai Municipality, was conceived around interactive learning, with galleries covering science, space exploration, nature, the human body, technology and different cultures. It also contains a planetarium and has areas dedicated to the edutainment of younger children. Over the summer there’s also a summer camp that offers a drop and go service, giving you some much-needed parent time. It may feel slightly less shiny than some of Dubai’s newer attractions, but the price point makes it a truly golden opportunity. From Dhs15. @childrencitydxb
STEM sell: Space, life sciences, physics and technology.
Fun factor: Hands-on displays and planetarium experiences inside Creek Park.
Sharjah Science Museum
Al Abar, Sharjah
There’s nothing like a bit of hands-on science for inspiring the grey matter gremlins, and that’s exactly what’s on offer at Sharjah’s own Science Museum. Across more than 50 interactive exhibits, kids can gain insights into the laws of nature, thermal physics, physiology, aerodynamics and electricity. Looking to extend the learning? There’s a planetarium close by with a schedule of cinematic space screenings more densely packed than a neutron star. Adults Dhs10, kids Dhs5. sharjahmuseums.ae
STEM sell: Physics, biology, astronomy and engineering.
Fun factor: Live demonstrations, interactive experiments and a planetarium rather than glass cases and notes on cards.
OliOli
OliOli
Sharjah Science Museum
Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion
The Green Planet
City Walk, Dubai
This is biology 101. The indoor biodome with massive mock kapok tree allows children to investigate ecosystems, food chains, animal adaptations, rainforest layers and conservation. Rather than reading about biodiversity and the plights of the planet, kiddlywinks can walk through a living environment containing birds, reptiles, insects, fish and tropical plants. Keeper talks and animal encounters anchor the experience with an additional practical educational layer, although the daily programme should be checked directly before publication. From Dhs139. @thegreenplanetdubai
STEM sell: Biology, ecology, zoology and conservation.
Fun factor: Sloths, snakes, birds and bugs inside a giant indoor rainforest.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
With all the recent openings in Abu Dhabi, you may have overlooked this phenomenal museum experience. But it’s well worth circling back on. The enormous digital artworks here react to human movement, light, sound and environmental conditions. It’s an AI-driven labyrinth of subtle learning experiences offering insights into how sensors, projection, algorithms and physical space can combine to create changing visual, almost sentient art. teamLab demonstrates the creative frontiers of the cutting edge of technology live and large. Adults Dhs155, kids Dhs55. @teamlab_phenomena
STEM sell: Digital technology, light, sound, sensors and interactive design.
Fun factor: Children physically alter the art by moving through it.
Star Geeks – Robotics Smart Playground
Wafi City, Dubai
This is less of the obvious kind of fun, more structured, academy tier brain training. Star Geeks blends drop-off entertainment with robotics, coding, virtual reality and space-themed activities. In their workshops, children aged four to 12 can build and program robots, experiment with block coding and take part in AI and VR activities in a playful environment. Priced from Dhs80. @stargeeksrobotics1
STEM sell: Foundational learning for future-proof skills.
Fun factor: Astronaut outfits, robots and VR space missions.
The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
Al Qana, Abu Dhabi
As above, so below the waterline. This is a strong marine-science option for summer holiday scholastic trickery, especially for children fascinated by sharks, rays, reptiles and aquatic environments. Its themed zones demonstrate how animals adapt to environments ranging from tropical forests to oceans and arid landscapes. Animal encounters, feeding sessions and conservation stories make it much more active than simply looking into tanks. Dhs110. @thenationalaq
STEM sell: Marine biology, zoology, habitats and conservation.
Fun factor: Sharks, stingrays and close-up encounters with aquatic life.
The Green Planet
Star Geeks – Robotics Smart Playground
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
StuDIYo Lab Summer Camp 2026
Times Square Centre, Dubai
The StuDIYo Lab Summer Camp has come up with some ingenious ways to distract children from their screens this school holiday season. Sessions will see budding builders explore woodworking, metalwork, design technology, STEM subjects and tackle creative challenges through more than 15 themed projects, including Mario and FIFA-inspired builds. Smart. Learning by doing, designing, customising, measuring, assembling, problem-solving, and using child-safe tools under expert guidance, your teeny tech tikes will also be able to take their creations home as a trophy of their efforts.
Until Friday August 28, 2026. Ages 5+. Prices start from Dhs275 for one day. studiyolab.com
Pure Minds Academy AI & STEM Summer Camp
Dubai – multiple venues, including Museum of the Future
Children are split into age groups and set to work on pioneering projects including robotics, coding, science experiments, forensic investigations, engineering challenges and AI projects. Younger children can build moving Lego-style robots and make games using Scratch Jr, while older groups progress into Python, electronics, smart-city builds and AIcontrolled games using facial, hand and voice recognition. Pure Minds is a proven fast track to equipping children with the skill set of tomorrow. Until Friday August 28, ages 10 to 17, from Dhs1,150 per week.
@puremindsacademyuae
Curiosity Lab Summer Science Camp
Dubai
This destination of fascination is focused through a more scientific lens. Curiosity Lab promises a world without worksheets, uninspiring tests or dry, boring theory. Instead, children take an active part in thrilling experiments, engineering builds, and mixing concoctions á la mad scientist. These experiments, of course, have been preselected to stir awe and wonder in little souls. The academic endeavour explores elements of chemistry, physics, and engineering. Until Friday August 28, ages five to eight. Priced from Dhs225 per day. @curiositylab.ae
Futurise Summer Camp
Dubai
This is the razor’s edge. A programme of education that includes learning about generative AI, animation and app development. If your kids have always seemed like they’re destined to be millionaires by the time they graduate high school, this is the camp for them. Activities manifest in practical experiences with robotics, AI, 3D design, game design, animation and app development. So if you’ve got a Roblox-obsessed child at home, just tell them they’re only allowed to play, after they’ve built their own version block-by-block. Until Friday August 28, ages five+, from Dhs120. futurise.ae
Time Master Summer Camp
Abu Dhabi and Mussafah
This Abu Dhabi option is perfect for younger children, and deliberately maintains small group sizes. On the enwisening menu, you’ll find creative approaches to robotics and coding, along with other genres of STEM-inspired camp activity, music, story time and dance. Camp sessions are available for kids as young as three, but the robotics options have a lower age cap of five. There are competitions for the robots to compete in too, which sounds great, Robot Wars was always elite TV. Until Friday August 28, ages three+, from Dhs550 per month. timemaster.ae
StuDIYo Lab Summer Camp 2026
Curiosity Lab Summer Science Camp
ROOH BY PRIYA
Indian flavours meet modern techniques at Dubai’s up-and-coming dining destination
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
Nestled within the waterfront development of Jewel of the Creek, Rooh by Priya is one of the latest dining concepts to arrive in this emerging Dubai neighbourhood. The restaurant takes inspiration from India’s rich culinary heritage, presenting familiar flavours through a contemporary lens.
The vibe
Step inside and Rooh by Priya feels worlds away from the pace of the city. Aptly named after the Hindi word for soul, decorative touches add warmth and character without ever overwhelming the space, while soft lighting and generous spacing create a calm, unhurried atmosphere. Outside, the creek provides its own kind of theatre, with shimmering waters, passing boats and the Burj Khalifa rising in the distance, completing a setting that invites you to linger long after the last bite.
The food and drinks
The menu is a celebration of India’s vast culinary heritage, moving through a spectrum of flavours inspired by different regions and reinterpreted with a modern elegance. There’s also a thoughtful approach behind the scenes, with the kitchen finding creative ways to use every element of an ingredient, from repurposing trimmings to transforming overlooked elements into something new.
After the amuse-bouche, we tucked into our first starter: the palak and dingri arancini. Questioning arancini at an Indian restaurant? Chef Priya puts an Indian spin on the Italian classic, blending
creamy risotto with palak (spinach) for a dish that brings together two culinary traditions in every bite.
The tokri dahi kebab is another playful interpretation. Served in delicate phyllo cups, creamy labneh kebabs are layered with mango, fried onions, cashews and tamarind chutney, creating a bite that sways between crisp, creamy, sweet and tangy.
The lassoni saag burrata was the dish that truly caught our attention. Taking inspiration from the familiar flavours of saag (a spinach-based dish), velvety spinach gravy is paired with creamy burrata, creating a surprisingly harmonious blend of Indian comfort and Italian indulgence. It’s easy to see why this is one of Rooh by Priya’s signature creations. The daab chingri (prawns cooked in tender coconut) is another we’d happily return for. Served in a coconut shell, the Bengali-inspired dish combines succulent prawns with a coconut and mustard gravy, bringing together creamy textures, delicate sweetness and plenty of flavour without feeling too heavy. Pair it with bread or rice to soak up every last bit of the fragrant gravy.
For dessert, we were tempted by the crème brûlée – the Rooh by Priya’s interpretation which offers a fragrant departure from the classic. Saffron and cardamom infuse the creamy custard,
while pistachio, almonds and dried rose petals add texture and a distinctly Indian touch to the dish.
The service
The warmth extends beyond the food and interiors, with a team that makes you feel instantly welcome. Friendly, attentive and genuinely hospitable, the service adds to the relaxed, unhurried experience that Rooh by Priya creates.
What’s On the bill
For two people, ordering starters, mains and a dessert, expect to spend around Dhs700. Drinks range from around Dhs60, but don’t skip the mocktails, priced at Dhs40.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Rooh by Priya leaves you wanting to return, with plenty more on the menu still waiting to be discovered. While our first visit captured the calm of the space, we’d return to experience its evening charm, when the creekside views and impressive Dubai skyline take centre stage.
Location: Jewel of the Creek, Marriott Marquis Hotel – 2nd Floor, Deira Times: Daily 12.30pm to 12.30am (on Sundays until 12am) Contact: 056 401 7217, roohbypriya.com
HUDSON & RYE
Dubai’s
first authentic New York deli is proving one thing fast… nobody expected this much demand for a Reuben
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
New York, it turns out, can be flat-packed and shipped to Dubai – pastrami, rye, attitude and all. Hudson & Rye is the emirate’s first proper deli, built by actual New Yorkers who clearly couldn’t survive another year without a decent NYC-style deli.
The space
It sits across the road from DIFC’s shinier restaurant strip, with its own car park – a genuine, whoop-outloud luxury in this city. Inside, fat maroon booths built for six, counter stools for the grab-and-bolt crowd, and watercolours of Katz’s and Russ & Daughters on the walls, like a shrine to the delis of yore. It’s probably a touch too polished for genuine Lower East Side grime, but the bones are spot on.
The food and drinks
The pastrami is simply magnificent. It lands in a Reuben stacked with rye, Swiss and sauerkraut, holding its structural integrity for the most part. Word has it the kitchen already gets through more meat than it ever anticipated, which suggests Dubai’s in-the-know crowd has discovered a very good sandwich indeed. Coffee comes from Cypher, a homegrown Dubai roastery slinging speciality beans since 2016, served correctly in a white diner mug, no fuss, no latte art lecture. The sauerkraut comes from Tabchilli, a local outfit that ferments the old, patient way, showing up in every sharp, tangy bite. Everything else – the meat, the pickles the size of forearms, the potato pancakes, the tuna melts – is done in-house, with real
conviction. The Breakfast Buddy, squareshaped egg, cheese and beef sausage on a thick and flaky biscuit, is sweet and salty – the perfect hangover bite.
The service
Exactly what a deli should feel like: chatty, proud, zero hard sell.
What’s on the bill?
House-made pastrami or oven-roasted turkey on rye (Dhs75); The Busy Corner – chicken cutlet, pastrami, Swiss on rye (Dhs75); buttermilk pancakes (Dhs59); breakfast biscuit with beef sausage, egg and cheese (Dhs39).
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Chef Dan – Hawaiian shirt, 20 years of New York kitchens behind him, a hand in reviving the now-celebrated S&P Lunch diner on 5th Avenue – is the deli man to be revered. Ten locations in five years is the plan. On this pastrami, we wouldn’t bet against him.
Where: DIFC Square, Dubai
When: Mon to Thu 8am to 8pm, Fri 8am to 9pm, Sat to Sun 8am to 9pm (timings to be extended soon)
Contact: @hudsonandrye
Laura’s big bite
NIRI RESTAURANT AND BAR
Japanese dining by the beach
WORDS BY: LEONIE WAGNER
Mamsha Al Saadiyat always feels a little cinematic at night when it comes alive. The water shimmers beside the promenade, music drifts through the restaurants, and it brings even more energy to the beachfront with live performances carrying across the shoreline.
NIRI feels right at home. Overlooking Mamsha Beach, the restaurant pairs contemporary Japanese dining with a lively atmosphere and beautiful waterfront views.
In true Japanese fashion, NIRI delivers a dining experience that feels distinctive yet welcoming at the same time. Part neighbourhood yakitori restaurant, part sushi counter and part highball bar, it works just as well for date night as it does for long dinners with friends and family.
The vibe
The food & drinks
The food delivers from the very first plate. The corn tempura arrives golden and crisp, with sweet corn kakiage lifted by ponzu, chilli daikon and a dusting of shichimi. It disappears quickly from the table because everyone keeps going back for another bite.
dessert, and honestly, it steals the show. The chocolate soufflé arrives warm and soft alongside a coffee disk and hazelnut ice cream. Decadent without becoming heavy, it earns silence at the table for those first few bites.
The service
The live entertainment adds so much to the experience here. One performer moves between instruments throughout the night, shifting seamlessly from jazzy melodies into upbeat pop favourites that suits the crowd and the setting beautifully. At certain moments, conversations soften as people pause to listen before drifting back into the buzz of dinner service.
Outside, the beachfront shimmers under the lights while tables fill with groups sharing plates and cocktails. Inside, NIRI keeps things sleek and modern without feeling cold. The space feels social, polished and comfortable all at once.
The spicy salmon sushi balances richness and freshness well, layered with cucumber, avocado and kizami wasabi for a subtle kick that builds gradually. Yellowtail with goma ponzu dressing brings something lighter and more delicate to the meal, clean flavours allow the quality of the fish to speak for itself.
The wagyu aburi adds depth and richness, finished with nirikiri soy and kizami wasabi that cuts through the buttery texture beautifully. Then comes
Despite the busy dinner crowd and live entertainment, the service remains smooth throughout the evening. Staff check in regularly, plates arrive at a relaxed pace, and the team handles the flow of the restaurant confidently.
What’s on the bill
Around Dhs650 for two people, including starters, sushi, nigiri, dessert and drinks.
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
NIRI Restaurant and Bar gets the balance right. Excellent food, genuinely good live music and some of the prettiest beachfront views in Abu Dhabi - it will quickly became the dinner spot you will be recommending to your friends.
Location: Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island
Time: 12pm to 12am
Contact: 02 546 8886
BERENJAK ABU DHABI
Persian hospitality dished up with love and passion
WORDS: SHANTELLE NAGARAJAN
Walking into the cozy enclave of Berenjak’s first location in Abu Dhabi is a treat of comfort. You’re instantly at a friend’s home, eagerly seated for catchups with friends while the kitchen bustles in the background. The scent of freshly baked taftoon blends with cassette-like Persian melodies peppered with an enthusiastic ‘Yes Chef’ from the mangal. The scene couldn’t be better set for a delicious meal.
THE FOOD
Berenjak stays true to the pillars of Iranian cuisine, dishing up family favourites with a twist. Every item on the menu is listed in Persian, offering an assortment of signature mezzes paired with a selection of warm bread, slowcooked stews and the pièce de resistance of every Iranian meal: tahdig and kebabs. The menu is carefully curated to reflect founder-
chef Kian Samyani’s deeply rooted Iranian heritage mixed with a modern twist from his upbringing in London.
The Hummus (Dhs 43) is a must try, along with the crispy fried potatoes Sibzamini (Dhs 47). The flavours in the mains are quite robust, charry kababs and rich stews, so we recommend getting a side of pickled vegetables, Torshi Kaftebijak (Dhs 16), to lighten up the palette. The get the most value, order the Kabab Vaziri (Dhs 465), which comfortably serves up to four with a variety from the grill and comes with the crispiest, saffron-infused tahdig.
To end on a sweet note, the Cake E Asal (Dhs 48) and Date & Walnut Cookies (Dhs 30) paired with a serving of Chayee (Dhs 58 for a pot), completes the meal perfectly.
We were lucky to have an Iranian friend dining with us, who promptly informed us that every dish served passed the test of
a wholesome home-cooked Persian meal with flying colours.
THE SERVICE
The staff are attentively present and do a great job of walking diners through the delicious ingredients of each dish. They make lovely drink recommendations so if you’re unsure about what to pick off the mocktails list, go with what they suggest.
WHAT’S ON THE BILL
Breads (Dhs 19 each for one portion), Panir Sabzi (Dhs 38), Kashl E Bademjoon (Dhs 45), Tikkeh Masti Kabab (Dhs 175), Kabab Vaziri (Dhs 465), Persian Tea Ice Cream (Dhs 59).
WHAT’S ON VERDICT
Berenjak is best experienced familystyle. Go in large numbers to get the most out of the menu.
Location: Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 4pm; 6pm to 11:30pm; Friday to Saturday: 12pm to 12:30am; Sunday: 12pm to 11:30pm
Contact: 02 643 3776
STEAK, FRITES, REPEAT
Meat and potatoes, the French bistro way – from cult-favourite daily staples to sold-out weekly specials, Dubai’s steak frites game has never been stronger
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
Dubai is in the grip of a steak frites moment. Restaurants are serving it up in all forms from value-driven and neighbourhood-cosy, to downright luxe, proof that this bistro classic never really goes out of style. At its best, steak frites is simplicity itself… a well-charred cut (skirt, bavette, or hanger, medium rare, please) alongside golden, crispy fries, a fistful of dressed greens, and most importantly a glug of brown, buttery sauce. Dubai’s bistros are leaning into it hard right now, from everyday à la carte staples to weekly steak frites specials built for regulars. Here’s where to go and when…
PERMANENT FIXTURES
Bistro Des Arts
Around for over a decade now, Bistro Des Arts is an unpretentious Dubai Marina classic. It’s a popular spot, usually full of families and first dates, and you’ll typically see at least one order of steak frites per table. The steaks are fab, made even better by the new daily steal of a deal: Dhs99 steak frites featuring your choice of flank, tri-tip, or oyster blade, cooked to your liking and finished with the signature Café de Paris butter. It arrives with unlimited fries and a mixed green salad dressed in Dijon vinaigrette, making it one of the better-value steak nights on the Marina.
Dubai Marina Promenade, @bistrodesarts
Rowley’s
Rowley’s is a warm little restaurant with just the right amount of French bistro kitsch to feel fun. Similar to other haunts, the steak frites formula is straightforward. Expect a classic striploin (Dhs145) or signature ribeye (Dhs175), each served with a “banging” house salad [ed. note: as described by contributing writer Miles Buckeridge], unlimited classic frites, and a sauce of your choice. You can trade up your fries with parmesan (Dhs10), spicy (Dhs10), or truffle (Dhs25). This is a confident, no-frills execution of the comfortfood staples, in a space that feels more neighbourhood local than special occasion. Central Park Towers, @rowleys.uae
CQ Brasserie
Ask us for our most-ordered dish and we won’t hesitate: it’s Ziad and Rowan’s steak frites at CQ. Across the brasserie’s two outposts, JLT and Barsha Heights, this is the dish that’s built a cult following. For Dhs149, you get CQ’s signature butterflycut tenderloin, fries, a mesclun salad, and the kitchen’s secret sauce, a rich, umamilaced number that is divine. It’s a classic, reimagined just enough to feel like theirs alone. Mondays sweeten the deal further: steak frites for two, plus a bottle of wine and a dessert to share, all for Dhs369. JLT and Barsha Heights. @cqbrasserie
Le Relais de L’Entrecôte
Between the French maid uniforms and the single menu item, Le Relais de L’Entrecôte is a bit like stepping into a Parisian time capsule from 1959. At its Dubai outpost, which opened to much fanfare in 2025, Dhs180 gets you two helpings of tender beef sirloin (in French, “entrecôte”) covered in their signature buttery sauce, a walnut bistro salad, and unlimited fries. Now that the hype has died down, and you don’t need to wait as long for a table, it’s just a better experience all-round.
ME Hotel, Business Bay, @relaisdelentrecotedubai
CQ Brasserie
Rowley’s
Le Relais de L’Entrecôte
WEEKLY SPECIALS
EVERY MONDAY
RARE Brasserie & Bar
This sultry steakhouse in City Walk delivers big flavours and big ambiance. They start the week off strong with steak frites night every Monday, which includes a starter, steak frites and wine for two people for Dhs399.
City Walk, @theraredxb
EVERY TUESDAY
The Guild
This beast of a restaurant in ICD Brookfield Place has gotten more buzz than many restaurants over the last few months and for good reason. It has smashed the weekly deals. From sold-out brunches, brilliant Sunday roasts and all-you-can-eat crab legs, it’s gone all in. On Tuesdays, it’s all about brasserie classics, including a steak au poivre that is downright luxurious. The generous hunk of beef is blanketed in a creamy sauce, and the duck fat fries that go with it hold their crispy texture even after you drag them through the sauce. The deal includes a class of wine for Dhs150 per person.
ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, @theguilddubai
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Chez Wam
Everyone’s favourite French chef, Hadrien Villedieu, has launched a steak frites night every Wednesday at Chez Wam on the Palm, and, naturally, it’s fully-booked each week. The beloved chef teams up with gourmet online butchers Carnistore to fly in three steak cuts, three sauces (peppercorn, mustard cream, and beef jus or béarnaise), fries and a green salad. Choose from a flank Angus (Dhs110), a tenderloin Angus (Dhs160), or a ribeye wagyu (Dhs260). The vibe is off the hook, thanks to the restaurant’s resident – and now legendary – DJ, and it’s quickly established itself as one of the best weekly specials to have launched in months.
EVERY FRIDAY
The Spaniel
The latest steak frites convert is Bluewaters’ beloved British pub and kitchen, which has launched their deal every Friday from 5pm. The easy deal is built around a hand-picked selection of steaks, triple-cooked frites and classic sauces. The line-up ranges from an approachable 200g Black Angus Flank Steak (from Dhs149) to the show-stopping 800g O’Connor Chateaubriand for two, with options in between including O’Connor Black Angus Prime Ribeye, Black Opal Wagyu Picanha, Rangers Valley “Black Market” Sirloin and Black Opal Wagyu Tenderloin, each cooked to order and served with slow-roasted garlic and a choice of “naked” or Parmesan truffle fries, finished with a sauce of your choice (Bordelaise, béarnaise, green peppercorn, stilton, Diane or chimichurri), plus shareable sides like mashed potatoes and honey-glazed carrots. Bluewaters Island, @thespanieldxb
Palm Jumeirah Mall, @chezwamdubai
EVERY THURSDAY
Hillhouse Brasserie
The steak frites special at this uber popular Dubai Hills restaurant clocks in at Dhs185 (for food only) or Dhs250 (including two glasses of wine: red, white, or rosé), and takes place every Thursday from 6pm. Each meal comes with a striploin steak, fries and a house salad. Dubai Hills, @hillhousedubai
RARE Brasserie & Bar
The Spaniel
Chez Wam
Hillhouse Brasserie
THE UPPER CRUST
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
The best new spots to find sourdough loaves, fabulous empanadas, and counters stacked with freshly baked pastries
Dubai is undergoing a bakery renaissance. Without looking far, residents can find decadent pastries, delightful cookies, overthe-top doughnuts, and baked goods representing traditions from around the world. Our stalwarts –Birch, BKRY, Pekoe, and Three By Eva – have been knocking out carb classics for years (and for that,
we salute them). But over the past 12 months, a new wave of bakeries has been popping up across the city, serving their neighbourhoods, flying the flags of di erent cultures, baking in big batches and small, and doing it all in spaces that are worth visiting for the design alone. Here’s a look at the newest spots we think are worth your dough.
852 BAKERY
Hidden inside Jun’s in Dubai, 852 Bakery is what chef Kelvin Cheung’s calls his daily love letter to Hong Kong (and to his gluten-intolerant wife). The name has meaning, too: eight for prosperity, five for the senses, two for the dual heritage that defines Kelvin’s Third Culture Cooking philosophy. The menu is a greatesthits collision of East-meets-everywhere. Housemade bagels arrive stuffed with fillings like spiced masala omelette and in-house cured pastrami. The Southside Parm layers crispy gluten-free chicken with mapo arrabbiata and giardiniera on a garlictoasted bagel. Then there’s the Pineapple Bun, a golden, crackle-topped bun split open and loaded with cold salted French butter. Order one with a Hong Kong milk tea. Weekend drops of cookies, Little Cakes and flavoured cream cheeses mean the regulars show up early.
Jun’s, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, daily noon to 11pm. @852bakerydubai (Available in-store and through Deliveroo under Liu by Jun’s)
Knead to know with… Kelvin
What’s the most underrated ingredient in baking?
Rice flour. People are out here spending a fortune on single-origin vanilla and imported cultured butter, but rice flour gives you this incredibly delicate crumb, adds real crispness exactly where you want it, and it allows your baked goods to be more inclusive for a wider audience.
What’s the best thing you’ve ever baked?
My brown butter Maldon salt chocolate chip cookie. I’ve been chasing this cookie for 25 years, and I’m still not finished. When it’s right, it has crisp edges, a chewy centre, pockets of melted chocolate, and that nutty richness.
What’s your guilty pleasure bake?
Supermarket pound cake, straight from the freezer. No plate, no garnish, just me standing in the kitchen at midnight eating it cold and dense straight from the wrapper.
What’s the most overrated pastry?
Anything designed more for Instagram than eating. I use cereal dust and toasted marshmallow, too, but only when they add to the flavour and texture. If I can’t taste the butter anymore, what are we actually doing?
Chef Kelvin Cheung
02
SUBKO
Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue is filled with standouts, but Subko is a destination in its own right. Founded by Rahul Reddy with a mission to reframe the Indian subcontinent as a world-class origin for coffee, cacao, and baking, the Mumbai-born brand made its first global debut in Al Quoz, and it arrived at the end of last year with serious conviction. This two-level speciality coffee roastery, craft bakehouse, and pod-to-bar chocolate maker treats transparency as a philosophy with roasting, dough lamination, and chocolate-making all happening in full view of customers. Their buttery kouign amann is a revelation, and paired with a box of their homemade chocolate honeycomb bites makes for next-level deliciousness. Subko, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, daily 8am to 11pm (Thur to Sat midnight). Tel: (0)4 336 0272. @subktouae
03
BKRY (NAD AL SHEBA)
This summer, Nad Al Sheba became home to the second branch of the ludicrously popular Alserkal venue BKRY. It’s a deliberate move into one of the city’s fastest-growing residential communities. From sourcing ingredients globally to working with local UAE farms, BKRY has always done things its own way — every laminated layer, every slowfermented loaf, every batch of house-made miso pastry cream a small act of obsession. The new space has been designed with the same precision. A glass-fronted production bakery puts the whole operation on show: dough being shaped, pastries proofing, loaves loaded into deck ovens. The interior pulls from the same material vocabulary as the Alserkal original, but this time with floor-toceiling windows opening onto neighbourhood greenery. Exclusive menu items and product lines developed specifically for the NAS community mean even Alserkal regulars will find something new to obsess over.
BKRY Nad Al Sheba Mall, daily 8am to 10pm, Tel: (0)4 832 4672. @bkry.space
04
PANCITA
The yeast fermentation process means it takes three days to make the Argentinian medialuna. Which seems a sad waste of effort because it only takes six seconds to eat one. Pancita’s medialunas are astonishingly good: crispy-topped, impossibly light, and available in a range of flavours. Our pick is the sweet-savoury combo of cheese and date syrup, finished with a scattering of sesame seeds.
When these pastries first appeared at a three-month pop-up at Le Guépard in Alserkal Avenue in the summer of 2025, word tore through Dubai’s Argentinian community faster than you can say Lionel Messi. Fans were desperate for a permanent home – and now they have one. For the past couple of months, Pancita has been operating out of Wasl Square, feeding a loyal crowd of hungry carb-loaders. Beyond the medialunas, the menu leans into Latin breakfast classics: huevos rancheros, chilaquiles with homemade salsa verde, and a cinnamon roll made from leftover dough scraps that punches well above its humble origins. But the real dark horse are the empanadas, made fresh from scratch daily. Order half a dozen (Dhs110) or a full dozen (Dhs200) and mix it up – classic beef, chicken béchamel, four cheese, cheese and onion. Glorious. Pancita, Wasl Square, daily 8am to 9pm, Tel: (0)56 447 3663. @pancita.bakery
PH5
The name is a clue. pH5 refers to what head baker Nayaz Lamik believes is the perfect acidity level for a sourdough starter, and that level of obsessive, nerdy precision tells you everything about this place.
This micro-bakery and pizzeria in Dubai Hills started as something simpler: three school friends who wanted to open a sourdough pizza parlour. But once they had the space, the logic was irresistible. If you’re already making naturally fermented dough for your pizzas, why not bake bread, too? And so pH5 slowly grew into the neighbourhood bakery it is today.
“I live in this neighbourhood, and we wanted to provide small batches of loaves for our community,” co-owner Fahd Aboobacker tells What’s On. “Nayaz shares my passion, so we decided to create a space where we can serve the things we love – freshly baked bread, viennoiseries, sandwiches, pastries, desserts… and pizzas.”
Nayaz has been baking for over 15 years and has been tending the same sourdough starter for the last 10, and everything made with it here is naturally fermented and yeast-free. pH5 bakes just 10 to 15 loaves a day, so get there early or risk missing out entirely. If you do, soften the blow with a cinnamon roll made from house brioche dough, cinnamon butter, and cream cheese frosting. It’s no consolation prize. The pizzas from their Moretti Forni oven are quietly brilliant too, with high-end toppings that mean business – think pepperoni and wagyu beef. And whatever you do, don’t leave without a grilled cheese. pH5, 2 Park Lane Towr, Dubai Hills, daily 8am to 11pm (11.30 on Fridays and Saturdays). Tel: (0)50 659 7797. @ph5.ae
Knead to know with…
Nayaz
What’s the most overrated pastry?
Cookie dough croissants.
What’s the most underrated loaf?
A traditional baguette.
What’s the biggest bakery sin?
Adding yeast to sourdough bread and calling it sourdough.
What’s one thing people should stop buying?
Store-bought brown bread.
What’s one pastry everyone should try at least once?
A proper butter croissant.
Nayaz
COMING SOON
06
AURA BAKERY
Milan-born Chef Manuel Balarini has baked in some of the world’s finest kitchens and he’s brought all of that refinement to a quietly elegant bakery on Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah 3. Aura opened at the tail-end of last year and reads like a love letter to Italian pastry. The menu balances the classic and the contemporary – pain Suisse chocolate & caramel, Mont Blanc, pecan and dates bread, and an exotic baba sit alongside rustic breads and signature Italian coffee. But the must-order is chef Manuel’s favourite, the Cocoa Bean: a milk chocolate ganache and caramel cream pastry topped with hazelnuts and finished with a hot chocolate glaze.
The interiors are warm and contemporary, making Aura equally inviting for a quick espresso at the bar or a more indulgent afternoon. If you’re after classy and classic, this is the ticket.
Aura Bakery, 1 Al Wasl Road, Jumeira 3, daily 8am to 9pm, @aurabakerycafe.ae
08
CHERRY HOUSE
It can be hard to stand out when you’re opening a new cafe in Dubai, but the waiting times for a table at Cherry House suggest this hasn’t been an issue.
Located in Al Safa 1 just off Sheikh Zayed Road, this is the latest venture from Emirati entrepreneur Mohamed Matar Al Falasi, founder of the ever-popular Saddle and Feels cafes. First conceived in 2019 and finally opened in May this year, Cherry House combines a coffee roaster and artisan bakery under one roof. Bold cherry tones, natural materials, and a conveyor belt system that puts the whole coffee production process on display make the space feel like theatre.
Demand has been significant enough that walk-ins aren’t really a thing – leave your number at the door and expect to wait the best part of an hour for a table. Whether that’s your idea of fun will depend on how much you value the ‘gram.
The coffee is good, and the open bakery, where sourdoughs ferment for up to 48 hours, adds a pleasing sense of craft to the proceedings. The all-day menu covers breads, pastries, and savoury dishes, all made in-house. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited during the soft opening weekend, which certainly didn’t hurt the buzz.
Cherry House, Matloob building, Safa 1 (just off Sheikh Zayed Road), daily 7am to 11pm. Tel: (0)50 522 5064. @cherryhouse
07
SHUKR
If you haven’t heard of the ensaymada, consider this your introduction. It’s a Filipino briochestyle pastry, all pillowy-soft, buttery, swirled into a gentle coil, baked until golden, and then, this is the important part, blanketed in yet more butter, a dusting of sugar, and a snowfall of grated cheese. Sweet, salty, rich, and deeply moreish. It’s a little bit of everything, and it’s coming to Dubai. Shukr (Arabic for gratitude) is a new side project from the team behind Michelin-starred 11 Woodfire, that will operate out of its back kitchen. It launches in September and will be delivery only. You’ve heard it here first…
TONTON BAKES
Basil Yassin is quietly taking over the Wasl 51 block. The Palestinian restaurateur behind the much-loved Yava also opened Tonton Bakes right next door, and if the croissants are anything to go by, the neighbours should be very happy indeed.
The Tonton croissant is a thing of genuine beauty all buttery, perfectly laminated, and as good as anything you’d find in France. There, we said it. The Arab diaspora-leaning zaatar version, which is stuffed, layered and rich is the move. But the team clearly enjoys pushing things further, with fried chicken and pizza croissants sitting comfortably alongside a perfectly packaged fudge chocolate chunk cake.
The space leans into the fun of it all: purple and green interiors, jaunty illustrated branding, a hip hop soundtrack. It’s playful and a little silly and yet there’s something quietly serious underneath all of it. These are hardcore pastry chefs. We really love the originality of Tonton so if you haven’t been yet, now would be the time.
Tonton Bakes, Wasl 51, Jumeira, daily 8am to 8pm (10pm Fri to Sun). Tel: (0)58 998 5272. @tontonbakes
Knead to know with… Basil
What’s the most underrated ingredient in baking?
Salt – it works as a flavour enhancer rather than making the product salty.
What’s the best thing you’ve ever baked?
Babka – a Polish brioche-like loaf topped with chocolate.
What’s your guilty pleasure bake?
A cinnamon roll with hazelnut cream.
What’s the most overrated pastry?
For me, it’s anything with pistachio cream, but it sells.
10
CRISP BY REIF
Chef Reif Othman has built one of Dubai’s most recognisable restaurant portfolios, including REIF Japanese Kushiyaki, Tero, KO.NA Pizza House, SIO Ramen House, and now he’s turning his attention to baking. Crisp, his first bakery concept took shape during a fiveweek pop-up at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens in 2024, where he immersed himself in Scandinavian baking culture before returning to Dubai and reworking those influences into something distinctly his own. Shio Pan (Japanese salt bread all glossy and buttery) is a standout. As is the pandan kaya jam doughnut, which brings his Southeast Asian soul to the pastry case, while a matcha crème caramel castella and a vanilla brûlé millefeuille is both unique and inspired.
Crisp (inside Reif Kushiyaki), Dubai Hills, from 8am. @crisp.byreif. Also available on Deliveroo
Basil
Meet the master baker
Former Pekoe head baker Keren Ye shares the Dubai bakeries she rates, the biggest mistakes bakeries make, and the one thing she always orders first
You’ve baked thousands of loaves over your career. What, in your opinion, separates a great bakery from a good one?
For me, the difference between a good bakery and a great bakery comes down to craftsmanship and care. It’s about the heart that goes into the product, the attention to detail, and the pride behind every bake. Beyond the products themselves, it’s also about the energy of the place and the connection it creates with the community. A great bakery becomes part of people’s daily rituals. Somewhere you genuinely look forward to visiting and bringing a little piece of home back with you.
When you walk into a bakery for the first time, what’s the very first thing you look at? (And what are the immediate red flags?)
The first things I notice are the display and the aroma. The way a bakery presents its products immediately tells you what its focus is and how much care goes into the experience. The smell of freshly baked pastries and bread is equally important.
As for red flags, a messy workspace and poor hygiene standards are the biggest ones. Cleanliness and organisation are fundamental in any bakery.
If you could only order one thing to judge a bakery by, what would it be?
Honestly, it depends on what the bakery specialises in. Every bakery has its own identity. Some focus on viennoiserie, others on sourdough, artisan loaves, or cakes. That said, if I had to choose, I’d usually go for a croissant and a sourdough loaf. They reveal a lot about a bakery’s technical skill, fermentation knowledge, and overall attention to detail.
Which bakeries in Dubai do you find yourself returning to again and again, and what makes them so special?
I have a few personal favourites. Birch is one of the OGs in Dubai. I always look forward to their monthly specials,
especially the Fastelavnsboller they release in January. Pancita, an Argentinian bakery in Wasl Square, is another new favourite. Their Medialunas are fantastic — different from a classic croissant, with a beautiful balance between brioche richness and laminated pastry. And finally, Three by Eva. It’s truly one of the most unique bakery concepts in the city. Their ma’amoul, and sourdough-based viennoiserie collection beautifully showcase local flavours through a modern-Arab bakery lens.
Is there a bakery trend you love right now, and one you’d happily leave behind?
I’m really enjoying the rise of Japanese salt bread, or Shio Pan. It’s introducing more people to the diversity of Asian baking beyond the classic soft milk bread. The flavour, texture, and simplicity are fantastic. One trend I’d leave behind is the flat croissant chip. I don’t see the appeal of taking a beautifully laminated, carefully fermented croissant and turning it into a crispy butter cracker. It’s just not for me.
You’ve helped shape and advise bakeries across the city. What’s the biggest mistake you see new bakeries making?
Many new bakeries spend too much time focusing on aesthetics and atmosphere while not paying enough attention to the products themselves. Another common mistake is trying to do too much. The strongest bakeries understand their specialty and build their identity around it. Having a clear focus is often more powerful than offering an endless menu.
“FOR ME, THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GOOD BAKERY AND A GREAT BAKERY COMES DOWN TO CRAFTSMANSHIP AND CARE”
WELL SPENT
Trainers laced, excuses cancelled – the feel-good kit to upgrade every workout this season
WORDS: LANA DU
With summer pushing workouts indoors for the next few months, there’s no better time for a wellness reset. A few thoughtful upgrades can make everyday routines feel that little bit more motivating – whether it’s a new
YOGA MAT
Activewear and footwear for her make
pair of comfortable trainers that gets you looking forward to your gym session, the perfect yoga mat for at-home workouts, or a fitness tracker that keeps your goals in check. These are the wellness essentials worth adding to basket right now.
5mm Yoga Mat, Oysho, Dhs229, oysho.com
This Oysho 5mm design offers enhanced cushioning for yoga or Pilates – ideal if you like a little extra support – with alignment lines to guide hand and foot placement and built-in handles for easy carrying.
WORK IT OUT
PILATES COMFORT PAD
Gale Comfort Pad, Hercule Studio, Dhs312, fwrd.com
A little extra cushioning goes a long way – use this compact pad on yoga mats, reformers or while travelling, with a non-slip base, textured surface and a lightweight design that’s easy to carry between classes.
SPORTS BRA
All the Feels Bra, Vuori, Dhs260, bloomingdales.ae
Soft, seamless and supportive where it counts, the Vuori All the Feels Bra offers light support for workouts, yoga and everyday movement, with moisturewicking fabric and an easy, second-skin fit that’s just as comfortable out of the studio.
LEGGINGS
All the Feels Leggings, Vuori, Dhs440, bloomingdales.ae
A true activewear staple, these Vuori leggings are made for everything from workouts to everyday errands, with soft, sweat-wicking fabric and four-way stretch that moves with you all day. Go for summery blue to match the sports bra, or black for a timeless look.
GRIP SOCKS
WOMEN’S WORKOUT SHOES
Nike Free Metcon 6, Nike, Dhs440, nike.ae
Built to handle it all, the Nike Free Metcon 6 balances forefoot flexibility for high-intensity sessions with a reinforced heel for support when lifting, while a multi-surface traction pattern makes it a reliable allrounder for gym days and beyond.
A quiet favourite for Pilates, yoga and barre, these breathable, lightly cushioned socks use pressure-mapped grip dots to keep you steady on mats and reformers, while arch support and a left-right toe design ensure a snug, secure fit. while and
WOMEN’S OVERSIZED HOODIE
Training Oversized Fleece Hoodie, Gymshark, Dhs189, gymshark.ae
Perfect for layering before or after workouts, this oversized hoodie is made from soft brushed fleece, with ribbed cuffs and hems for structure and an adjustable hood for cooler days.
ANKLE WEIGHTS
Bala Bangles 1LB (450g) Sage, Bala, Dhs233, ninjoo.com
Strap them on your wrists or ankles to instantly level up walks, yoga, Pilates or workouts – comfortable, easy-to-wear light resistance, no extra gym
HIS EDIT
For the man who takes his kit seriously
MEN’S RUNNING SHOES
Nike Pegasus Premium, Nike, Dhs1,099, nike.ae
Built for speed and energy return, the Pegasus Premium combines ZoomX foam, a sculpted Air Zoom unit and ReactX foam for a responsive, propulsive stride. Inspired by Nike’s heritage colourways, it’s a modern upgrade on a classic.
Made for training, running and everyday wear, this lightweight tank pairs a streamlined, comfortable fit with an elevated, streetwear-inspired feel that works just as well outside the gym.
MEN’S RUNNING SHORTS
Running Shorts, adidas by Song for the Mute, Dhs239, fwrd.com
Lightweight and easy to move in, these ripstop shorts feature an elasticated waistband for comfort and a practical back zip pocket to keep small essentials secure on the move.
GYM TOTE BAG
adidas by Stella McCartney Tote, adidas, Dhs799, adidas.ae
A stylish yet practical tote for workouts, commutes and everything in between, with a spacious zipped compartment, dedicated pockets and multiple carry handles. A water-repellent base protects your belongings, while the outdoor-inspired keychain adds a polished finish.
THE EXTRAS
The gear that rounds out the routine
WATER BOTTLE
Active Bottle 950ml, Kinto, Dhs147, smallable.com
From gym floor to desk, this lightweight bottle pairs a clean, minimal design with recycled materials, a straw-style spout for one-handed drinking and a widemouth opening that’s easy to refill and clean.
A smart all-in-one tracker with highly accurate heart rate monitoring, built-in GPS and 40+ exercise modes, the Charge 6 also tracks sleep, stress and recovery, while integrating Google Maps, Wallet and YouTube Music controls.
Airlift Headband, Alo Yoga, Dhs175, aloyoga.com Say goodbye to mid-workout adjustments. Lightweight performance fabric handles sweat and keeps hair comfortably in place during workouts, yoga and runs – a simple essential you’ll keep reaching for.
Kit bag sorted? Turn to page 52 for the indoor workouts, wellness spaces and recovery treatments to put it all to good use this month.
ART | THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC
w e c a l l e n t e r ta i n m e n t !
Clear your calendar: The biggest gigs coming to Dubai and Abu Dhabi
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR t h at ’ s w h at
he final stretch of 2026 is bringing a blockbuster line-up of live entertainment to the UAE.
From global music icons to spectacular performances and must-see shows, these are the gigs worth clearing your calendar for.
*Events and dates correct at the time of going to press.
AUGUST 22
This is Michael Michael Jackson fans, this one’s for you. THIS IS MICHAEL moonwalks into Abu Dhabi with tribute star Lenny Jay bringing the King of Pop’s iconic vocals, electrifying choreography and legendary moves to the stage.
Prices from Dhs215, @etihadarena
SEPTEMBER 25
Christina Aguilera
Aguilera, the powerhouse behind Genie in a Bottle, Dirrty and Beautiful which defined the early 2000s is performing in the capital backed by a full-scale production with striking visuals, and live musicians. Expect the whole arena to turn into one giant choir.
Prices from Dhs395, @etihadarena
SEPTEMBER 27
The Corrs
Iconic Irish sibling quartet The Corrs return to Abu Dhabi for one night only with their signature Celtic-infused pop-rock sound, timeless hits and unmistakable harmonies. The performance is sure to leave you Breathless.
Prices from Dhs325, @etihadarena
OCTOBER 31 AND NOVEMBER 1
Riverdance 30
Riverdance 30 – The New Generation arrives in Abu Dhabi, celebrating 30 years of the iconic Irish dance phenomenon. Expect breathtaking choreography, vibrant costumes, stunning visuals and Bill Whelan’s Grammy Award-winning score performed live by world-class musicians.
Prices from Dhs215, @etihadarena
DECEMBER 3 TO 5
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026
Post the roar of the cars on track, F1 fans can make their way to Etihad Live for the Yasalam AfterRace Concerts. Year after year, the line-up of artists is huge and so far this year, we have Zara Larson and Lewis Capaldi performing on December 3, and Imagine Dragons on December 5. The artists for the remaining two days are yet to be announced but stay tuned to whatson.ae for all updates.
Tickets to see these performers are exclusive for Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders, and not sold separately. @abudhabigp and @yasalamae
And there’s another special treat in store this year. As part of the week’s entertainment line-up, fans can also look forward to Andrea Bocelli, who will headline the debut edition of Yasalam Classics on December 2. Prices start from Dhs295. @etihadarena
NOVEMBER 13
Hans Zimmer Live - The Next Level
The one-and-only Hans Zimmer is returning to the capital in November with a breathtaking new show, The Next Level. The multiple Oscar and Grammy Award-winning composer will be accompanied by his orchestra and band, and a setlist featuring Gladiator, The Lion King, Interstellar, and Man of Steel. The concert will also showcase brilliant immersive visuals to bring it all together.
Prices start from Dhs245. @etihadarena
Lenny Jay
Grand Prix 2026
The Corrs
Christina Aguilera
Hans Zimmer
UNTIL AUGUST 22
Beat the Heat DXB
The popular concert series returns this summer with a stacked line-up of regional music stars, bringing weekly indoor concerts to Dubai World Trade Centre.
From Cairokee and Dystinct to Rasha Rizk and Al Shami, the series will showcase everything from Arabic pop and rap to rock and Khaleeji sounds.
Prices from Dhs105, @beattheheatdxb
OCTOBER 25
In the Park
Dubai’s outdoor In The Park Festival returns on October 25 with a day of live music, family-friendly entertainment and food. Expect performances from local and international bands, plus new additions including the Jim Beam x Lock Stock Acoustic Stage, the Hills Family and Fun Zone with games and activities; and the Best of British Area serving up classic pub grub and festival favourites.
Prices from Dhs25, @intheparkdubai
OCTOBER 31
Summer in Nashville
Dust off your cowboy boots! Summer in Nashville is bringing a slice of Tennessee to Dubai this October, with country music, Southern-style food and plenty of festival fun. Expect tribute performances inspired by artists like Zach Bryan, Lainey Wilson and Luke Combs, plus line dancing, American BBQ, street food, axe throwing and more.
Prices from Dhs25, @summerinnashvilledubai
NOVEMBER 5 TO 8
UNTOLD
UNTOLD Dubai returns this November for four days of music, immersive stage productions and festival experiences at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Following previous editions that welcomed more than 100 international artists across multiple stages, this year’s event is expected to once again bring together a mix of EDM, techno, pop, hip-hop and more, with the line-up still to be announced. Stay tuned to whatson.ae for all updates.
@untoldfestivaldubai
Beat The Heat DXB
UNTOLD
In the Park
Summer in Nashville
NOVEMBER 21
OFFLIMITS
OFFLIMITS returns to Abu Dhabi for its second edition on November 21, transforming Etihad Live into a full-scale festival experience. Headlined by global superstar Shakira, the line-up also features multi-platinum pop trio Jonas Brothers, three-time GRAMMY Award winner NE-YO, plus Biffy Clyro, KALEO, Scouting for Girls, Toploader, Bayou, Yara Mustafa and YAZ. Across multiple stages, expect a day of global sounds, with even more names still to be announced.
Prices from Dhs495, @offlimitsmusicfestival
DECEMBER 11 TO 13
Sole DXB
Sole DXB returns to Dubai Design District (d3) this December, bringing together music, fashion, art, sport and food for a three-day celebration of creativity. Following a 2025 edition featuring artists including Tyla, Kaytranada, Lil Yachty, Miguel and Loyle Carner, the festival is set to return with another exciting line-up of performances, talks, tournaments and brand activations. Stay tuned to whatson.ae for all the latest. @soledxb
AUGUST 8
Get Get Aww SB Girls Filipino supergroup SB19 make their Abu Dhabi debut this August, bringing their first major concert experience to the capital. Expect powerhouse vocals, dynamic choreography and a high-energy live show packed with fan favourites and dazzling visuals. Prices from Dhs299, @etihadarena
AUGUST 16
Lucky Ali
Popular Indian singer, songwriter and actor Lucky Ali brings his unmistakable sound to Dubai this August. Known for his soulful vocals, poetic storytelling and timeless melodies, the music icon will perform beloved favourites including O Sanam, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum and Safarnama in a night of nostalgia and emotion.
Prices from Dhs125, @cocacolaarena
AUGUST 21
Sonu Nigam
One of Bollywood’s most iconic voices, Sonu Nigam brings his legendary vocals to Abu Dhabi for an evening of timeless hits, emotional ballads and the melodies that have defined generations of fans. Prices from Dhs95, @etihadarena
OCTOBER 24
Nancy Ajram
Lebanese pop star Nancy Ajram is heading to Coca-Cola Arena this October for a special live performance featuring her biggest hits and signature sound. Known for her signature pop sound and string of beloved hits, Nancy Ajram’s Dubai concert is set to bring fans together for a night of music and nostalgia. Prices from Dhs210, @cocacolaarena
OCTOBER 24
Bloodywood
New Delhi’s genre-defying folk metal band Bloodywood are set to take over Jubilee Park, Expo City Dubai, with their unique fusion of heavy metal and Indian folk influences. Expect powerful riffs, dhol, flute and Hindi and Punjabi lyrics from a band that has earned a global following.
Prices from Dhs175, @expocitydubai
NOVEMBER 27
Atif Aslam
One of South Asia’s most beloved voices, Atif Aslam brings his signature sound to Dubai for a night of unforgettable ballads, Bollywood favourites and timeless hits. Tickets from Dhs95. Prices from Dhs350, @cocacolaarena
Sole DXB
Nancy Ajram
Sonu Nigam
AUGUST 8 AND OCTOBER 9
Candlelight: A Tribute to Hans Zimmer
Some of cinema’s most powerful soundtracks come to life at Majlis Mina A’Salam Hotel, as a string quartet performs Hans Zimmer’s iconic scores surrounded by the warm glow of candlelight. Featuring beloved tracks from Inception, Interstellar, Dune, and Pirates of the Caribbean, this immersive concert offers a captivating new way to experience the music behind the movies.
Prices from Dhs150, @fever_global
OCTOBER 3
Richard Marx
SEPTEMBER 13
Blind Symphony
Blind Symphony offers a chamber concert experience like no other, performed entirely in darkness to create a deeper connection between music and emotion. With visual distractions removed, audiences are invited to focus on sound, imagination and feeling in this immersive sensory journey. Expect a calming, intimate experience that lets music take centre stage.
Prices from Dhs240, @newcoventgardentheatredxb
OCTOBER 3
Prices from Dhs225, @cocacolaarena
KPOPZ Live
Richard Marx is set to bring his unmistakable soft rock sound to Dubai, delivering a night steeped in nostalgia and timeless hits. The American singer-songwriter, behind classics like Right Here Waiting, Hazard and Endless Summer Nights, has soundtracked decades of heartfelt singalongs with his signature melodic style. Expect an intimate yet powerful set from one of pop’s most enduring voices.
K-Popz LIVE brings the energy of K-pop to Theatre by QE2 with a highoctane tribute production featuring chart-topping anthems, fan favourites and music from K-Pop: Demon Hunters. Expect slick choreography, immersive visuals and the sounds of global stars including BLACKPINK, BTS, NewJeans, Stray Kids and more.
Prices from Dhs120, @theatrebyqe2
Candlelight: A Tribute to Hans Zimmer
Richard Marx
Blind Symphony
Theatre by QE2
OCTOBER 5
God Save The Queen
Queen’s iconic anthems are loved by generations around the world, and now their legendary sound is coming to Dubai. God Save The Queen, one of the world’s most acclaimed Queen tribute bands, will make its Dubai debut with a spectacular live show celebrating the magic of Queen’s greatest hits. Led by Pablo Padín, whose striking resemblance to Freddie Mercury has wowed audiences worldwide, the band will perform timeless classics, including Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You and Somebody to Love in a powerful tribute to one of music’s greatest bands.
Prices from Dhs295, @dubaiopera
DECEMBER 16 TO 20
Chicago The Musical
The longest-running American musical in Broadway and West End history, Chicago returns to Dubai for a five-day run, making it the perfect pre-Christmas theatre treat. One of the world’s most celebrated musicals, Chicago is famed for its electrifying choreography, iconic score and gripping tale of fame, fortune... and all... that... jazz. Set amid the glitz and glamour of 1920s Chicago, it follows housewife and nightclub dancer Roxie Hart, who murders her lover after he threatens to leave her. Determined to escape conviction, Roxie manipulates the press, the public and fellow inmate Velma Kelly, with the help of the city’s slickest lawyer, turning her crime into headlinegrabbing spectacle.
Prices from Dhs99. @cocacolaarena
OCTOBER 22
GIPSY KINGS Symphonic
Led by André Reyes, founder of the legendary Gipsy Kings, the group returns with their first symphonic theatre project. Their timeless hits, including Bamboleo, Djobi Djoba, Volare and Un Amor, are reimagined with orchestral arrangements that add cinematic depth while preserving their iconic sound.
Prices from Dhs395, @dubaiopera
OCTOBER 25
Blue
Dubai is in for a nostalgic trip back to the early 2000s as Blue mark their 25th anniversary with a special tour stop this October. Fans can expect chart-topping favourites including Too Close, If You Came Back and Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word, alongside newer tracks.
Prices from Dhs299, @expocitydubai
Chicago
God Save The Queen
Gipsy Kings Symphonic
CoComelon and Blippi
AUGUST 15 AND 16
CoComelon: Sing-A-Long LIVE
CoComelon and Blippi come together for the first time bringing a fun-filled live adventure for families. Expect singalong favourites, playful storytelling, interactive moments and a special appearance from Blippi with fan-favourite songs.
Prices from Dhs75, @etihadarena
SEPTEMBER 11 TO 13
Paw Patrol Live!
Heroes Unite
Ryder and his heroic pups are back for their biggest mission yet in PAW Patrol Live: Heroes
Unite. Combining live performances, catchy music and interactive storytelling, the show brings the much-loved rescue team from screen to stage for a family adventure filled with bravery, teamwork and fun.
Prices from Dhs95, @etihadarena
OCTOBER 31 AND NOVEMBER 1
The Way Back Home
The Way Back Home – Live on Stage brings Oliver Jeffers’ beloved story to life. The tale follow a young boy’s journey to the moon, where an unexpected friendship with a stranded alien teaches the power of kindness and teamwork.
Purchase tickets from abu-dhabi. platinumlist.net
NOVEMBER 6 AND 7
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns as part of Art For All’s 20th anniversary celebrations, bringing Judith Kerr’s beloved children’s classic to the stage. Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated production follows Sophie and her mum as a surprise tiger arrives for tea, leading to an afternoon of songs, magic and playful chaos.
Prices from Dhs85, @abudhabicf
Paw Patrol Live!
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
The Way Back Home
Comedians/Dubai funniest nights
OCTOBER 5
Shawn Chidiac
UAE-based Canadian-Lebanese comedian Shawn Chidiac, better known as My Parents Are Divorced, brings his viral sketches and sharp observations to Dubai this October. Known for his spoton accents and hilarious takes on everyday life, Shawn turns familiar moments into comedy gold, with a DJ set kicking off the night.
Prices from Dhs199, @cocacolaarena
OCTOBER 9 AND 18
Dubai Comedy Festival
Dubai Comedy Festival returns with another edition of big laughs, bringing some of the world’s funniest comedians to stages across the city. Expect a mix of sharp observations, hilarious storytelling and plenty of relatable moments as international and regional stars take the mic.
Headliners include Mo Gilligan (performing on October 12 at Dubai Opera), known for his quick wit, infectious energy and ability to turn everyday experiences into comedy gold, and Shane Todd (performing on October 16 at New Convent Garden ) whose sharp takes on life, relationships and growing up have earned him a huge following.
The line-up also features regional favourites including Jamie Lever, Vir Das and Amit Tandon, each bringing their own style of humour, from clever social commentary to laughout-loud personal stories. With more names still to be announced, the festival promises plenty of reasons to swap your evening plans for a night of comedy.
Prices vary, dubaicomedyfestival.ae
ALREADY ANNOUNCED FOR 2027
Harry Potter™ Film Concert Series
February 5 and 6
The wizarding world returns with live orchestral performances.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
May 14 to 23
Roald Dahl’s sweet musical adventure arrives in Abu Dhabi.
CATS The Musical
June 4 to 13
The iconic feline musical returns with its unforgettable songs and choreography.
OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER
Abu Dhabi Comedy Season
Abu Dhabi Comedy Season returns for its third edition with the first four acts of the lineup announced so far. Mo Amer, Maz Jobrani, Morgan Jay and Russell Peters are scheduled to perform bringing their signature styles of comedy to the capital. Morgan Jay kicks things off on October 11, followed by Russell Peters on October 25, before Mo Amer and Maz Jobrani take the stage on November 6 and 7. More names are expected to join the lineup, with tickets already on sale for selected shows.
Prices vary, @etihadarena
A1 & Music Travel Love
April 17
More live music nostalgia is on the way when A1 & Music Travel Love perform in Dubai in April.
Russell Peters
Shawn Chidiac
OCT 30 TO NOV 1
Dubai Muscle Show
One for fitness fans, Dubai Muscle Show turns Expo City Dubai into a hub of strength, endurance and performance. The annual event brings together elite athletes, bodybuilding competitions, live workouts and the latest in fitness innovation, making it one of the region’s biggest celebrations of the wellness world.
Starting prices TBC, @dubaimuscleshow
NOVEMBER 5 TO 8
Abu Dhabi Golf Championship
A key stop in the race for the DP World Tour title, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship brings the world’s top golfers to Yas Links Abu Dhabi. With its dramatic coastal setting and challenging fairways, the tournament has become one of the UAE’s standout sporting events, offering fans a chance to watch the game’s biggest names battle it out in the capital.
Starting price TBC, @adgolfchamps
NOVEMBER 8 TO 15
Dubai Premier Padel P1
Padel’s biggest stars return to Dubai as the Premier Padel P1 tournament takes over Hamdan Sports Complex this November. The week-long championship will see top men’s and women’s players battle it out on court for one of the sport’s most prestigious titles, with past editions attracting names including Juan Lebrón, Ale Galán, Arturo Coello, Ari Sánchez and Agustín Tapia.
Prices from Dhs36, @dubaipremierpadel
NOVEMBER 21 AND 22
Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix
The world’s fastest sailing competition arrives in Dubai as the Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix takes over Mina Rashid in November. Featuring 11 national teams racing high-speed F50 catamarans, the event brings elite sailing, technology and two days of waterfront action to the city. Register online for pre-sale tickets (prices TBC), sailgp.com
NOVEMBER 22 TO DECEMBER 20
DP World ILT20 (Season 5)
Cricket fever returns to the UAE as the DP World ILT20 enters its fifth season. The T20 league brings six franchises together for a month of fast-paced matches, big hitting and international cricket stars battling it out across the country.
Prices to be confirmed, @ilt20official
Abu Dhabi Golf Championship
Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix
NOVEMBER 27 TO 29
Emirates Dubai 7s
One of Dubai’s longest-running sporting traditions, the Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens has been bringing rugby action to the city since 1970. What began as a small local tournament has grown into one of the biggest rugby sevens events in the world, attracting elite international teams alongside thousands of fans who come for the fast-paced matches, entertainment and festival-like atmosphere.
Prices from Dhs75, @dubai7s
DECEMBER 3 TO 6
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026
All eyes will be on the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as the season reaches its thrilling conclusion at Yas Marina Circuit. At the time of going to press, Mercedes’ young star Kimi Antonelli is making a serious push for the Drivers’ Championship, and if he continues his strong form, he could arrive in the capital with the title within reach. In the Constructors’ Championship, Mercedes is leading the charge, with Ferrari close behind as the battle for team supremacy continues.
Prices from Dhs2,395. @abudhabigp
OCTOBER 30 TO NOVEMBER 1
Dubai Active
From live workouts and fitness challenges to expert-led sessions and the latest wellness innovations, Dubai Active brings the region’s fitness community together for three days of movement and motivation. Discover new ways to stay active, meet leading trainers and explore the future of health and wellbeing. Price to be confirmed, @dubaiactiveshow
OCTOBER 31 AND NOVEMBER 1
Tough Mudder
Tough Mudder brings its legendary obstacle courses back to Dubai, challenging participants to tackle mud, climbs and physical tests at The Sevens. Whether you’re racing solo, chasing a personal milestone or taking on the course with friends, the event promises a memorable test of strength, stamina and teamwork.
Prices from Dhs110, @toughmuddermiddleeast
DECEMBER 12
Abu Dhabi Marathon
The Abu Dhabi Marathon will bring thousands of runners onto the streets of the city to run past some of Abu Dhabi’s most recognisable landmarks. The race offers a unique way to experience the capital while challenging runners of all levels, from elite athletes chasing records to first-timers taking on their first big milestone.
Prices TBC, adnocabudhabimarathon.com
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Emirates Dubai 7s
READY PLAYER FRANCE
RIYADH ROOTS, GLOBAL REACH
For its first two editions, the Esports World Cup called Riyadh home – this summer, the world’s biggest gaming tournament packed its bags for Paris, and What’s On’s Rasha Hassan was there to see it all
The first clue came before I’d even dropped my bags. Esports World Cup branding across the Metro, banners lining the approach to Paris Expo Porte de Versailles and, everywhere, clusters of fans in club jerseys chatting away in a dozen different languages. Paris – a city that tends to shrug at spectacle – had been well and truly taken over.
And this takeover was a first. Since its launch, the Esports World Cup has been held in Riyadh, the tournament’s birthplace and home. In 2026, after two hugely successful editions in the Saudi capital, the world’s biggest esports event went international for the very first time – and What’s On was in Paris to watch the new chapter begin.
The numbers alone are staggering. More than 2,000 players from 200 clubs and over 100 countries, competing across 25 tournaments in 24 different games, all chasing a slice of a record-breaking $75 million prize pool – the biggest in esports history. But statistics only tell you the scale. Being in the middle of it tells you what it feels like: less a gaming competition, more a World Cup, a music festival and a tech expo rolled into one.
LET THE GAMES BEGIN
Things kicked off, fittingly, somewhere steeped in history – the official press conference at the Hotel de Ville, Paris City Hall. The message from the podium was clear: esports is no longer a niche pursuit for the gaming community, but a global industry with serious cultural, economic and entertainment clout. Hearing it declared beneath the chandeliers of one of Paris’ grandest buildings rather made the point on its own. Then came the party. The opening ceremony at La Seine Musicale threw everything at the wall – and all of it stuck. Performances from Aya Nakamura, DJ Snake and Theodora collided with dazzling visual production for a show that felt every inch a statement of intent. If anyone in the room still thought of esports as a bedroom hobby, they didn’t by the end of the night.
What sets the Esports World Cup apart is its multi-game format. At its heart sits the Club Championship, in which organisations field rosters across multiple titles, earning points towards the ultimate crown: the world’s best esports club. It’s a format that rewards consistency, strategy and long-term investment in talent over one-off heroics – and it makes for gripping viewing, because every match, in every game, matters.
For all the Parisian glamour, the tournament wears its Saudi roots proudly. Riyadh, host of the first two editions, remains the Esports World Cup’s home and starting point – the Paris outing is expansion, not relocation, part of a vision to connect players, clubs, publishers and fans from every corner of the world. That world was on full display in the crowds. Wandering the venues, I watched fans who shared no common language celebrate the same plays, creators filming alongside global brands, and families next to hardcore superfans. The organisation, technology and attention to detail stood comparison with the biggest sporting events on the planet.
Leaving Paris, one thing was obvious: the Esports World Cup is more than a tournament. It’s the story of an idea born in Riyadh that has outgrown every expectation – and this summer, we watched it conquer one of the world’s great capitals. Wherever it goes next, expect the world to follow.
CHILL SEEKERS
From aquarium yoga to mall marathons – how to stay moving through Dubai’s hottest month
WORDS: LANA DU
By August, most of us have accepted that outdoor workouts take a back seat. As temperatures peak, the city’s studios, gyms and wellness spaces come into their own, and staying active, recovering properly and
feeling your best has never been easier – or, in some cases, cheaper, with a few of this month’s best options completely free. If your wellness routine could do with a refresh, these are the places worth checking out.
01
ReFIVE Reformer Pilates Studio
If Reformer Pilates is your workout of choice, ReFIVE at FIVE Palm Jumeirah is worth adding to your list. Small classes and expert-led sessions focus on building strength and flexibility. Make a morning of it with the Sculpt, Melt & Restore package, pairing a 50-minute Reformer class with a musclemelting massage, plus access to the spa pool and steam. There’s also Soulful Sundays, combining Pilates with ice baths and recovery, while Detox Me Café serves matcha, protein shakes and cold-pressed juices afterwards.
Where: FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah
When: Monday to Friday, 8am to 7pm; Saturdays 8am to 11am; Sundays 9am to 6pm
Cost: Dhs165 per class
Contact: @refivepilates
02
Aquarium yoga at Atlantis, The Palm
If yoga is your way to switch off, this might be one of Dubai’s most unique places to do it. Practise beside the aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm, where thousands of marine creatures glide past as you move through gentle postures and mindful breathing. Your session also includes complimentary access to The Lost Chambers Aquarium afterwards, so you can take your time exploring once class is over.
Where: Crescent Rd, The Palm Jumeirah
When: Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 9am
Cost: Dhs275 per person
Contact: @atlantisthepalm
ARKHE
One of Dubai’s newest (and biggest) wellness performance clubs, ARKHE is designed for those who take their training seriously. From strength training and HYROX to personal training, Reformer Pilates and recovery, it’s got every base covered. Expect a spacious gym floor packed with state-of-the-art equipment, plus cold plunges, saunas, red light and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. You’ll also find Dubai’s first PILAT3S Dynamic Reformer Pilates studio, alongside personalised longevity programmes. Throw in an all-day café and marina views, and it’s more than just a place to work out.
Where: Silverene Tower, Marsa Dubai, Dubai Marina
When: Daily, 6am to 9pm
Cost: Special opening rate starting from Dhs599 per month
Contact: @arkhe.club
Dubai Mallathon
Running until September 15, one of Dubai’s biggest community fitness initiatives has transformed six of the city’s shopping malls into indoor walking and running tracks for the summer. Choose from 2.5km, 5km and 10km routes or simply walk at your own pace, with coaches on hand each morning to lead warm-ups and cool-downs, plus competitive pro-race days on selected weekends for anyone chasing a finish line. Whether you’re getting your steps up or training for your next race, it’s a cool, airconditioned way to keep moving – and best of all, it’s completely free to take part.
Where: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Festival City Mall, City Centre Deira and City Centre Mirdif
When: Daily, 6am to 10am, until September 15
Cost: Free
Contact: dubaimallathon.ae
Yugen Care by Dr. Gehad
If you’re looking to add a little extra recovery to your wellness routine, Yugen Care by Dr. Gehad offers personalised lymphatic drainage massages to help support circulation while reducing puffiness and water retention. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday, recovering after a trip or simply carving out some time for yourself, it’s an easy way to give your body some extra care.
Where: Jumeirah Beach Rd, Jumeirah 3
When: 11am to 8pm daily (closed Fridays)
Contact: @yugen_care
07
Deep Body Reset at Talise Spa
One of Talise Spa’s summer wellness highlights is the Deep Body Reset with icoone, a 60-minute treatment designed to ease muscular tension, improve circulation and support recovery. Combining advanced icoone technology with slow massage techniques, it’s a great option if your body is feeling the effects of long workdays, tough workouts or everyday stress.
Where: Jumeirah Al Qasr, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim
When: Daily, 11am to 9pm
Cost: Dhs700 for a 60-minute treatment
Contact: @talisespa
06
The Bay Health Club
One of Dubai’s newest wellness destinations, The Bay Health Club brings fitness, recovery and relaxation together in the heart of Al Barari. Surrounded by lush greenery and a swimmable lagoon, it feels a world away from the city – just as suited to slowing down as it is to working out.
Move between the gym, Reformer Pilates, yoga studios, recovery spaces, padel and tennis courts, then unwind with a swim. Every visit also includes a full-day pool pass and a complimentary smoothie, turning it into an easy all-day escape.
Where: Wadi Al Safa 3, Al Barari
When: Monday to Friday, 6.30am to 10pm; Saturday and Sunday, 7am to 9pm
Cost: Day passes available
Contact: @bayhealthclub
08
Dubai Sports World
Back for its 16th edition, Dubai Sports World has once again transformed Dubai World Trade Centre into one of the city’s biggest indoor sports hubs. Reserve a court for everything from football and basketball to padel and badminton, or make the most of the free gym and 1km indoor walking and jogging track. If you’re looking for an easy way to stay active through August, this is one of the city’s best indoor options.
Where: Dubai World Trade Centre, Za’abeel Halls 2–6
When: Until August 25
Cost: Gym and jogging track free; court and pitch hire varies by sport
Contact: dubaisportsworld.ae
TRIED & TESTED
Banya Forrest
Heat, cold, dumplings and a light thrashing – we put Bluewaters’ worst-kept wellness secret to the test
It’s the Sunday after a run of brutal late nights, and mine is one of a group of slick, flushed bodies hunched over a steaming wood bench, heads wrapped in wool hats, sweat dripping onto the slats below. The furnace is roaring, the room pushing 80°C, and a dozen of us have stripped down to our swimwear in search of the kind of physical reset that might actually get us through Monday. Welcome to Banya Forrest’s Slavic banya ritual –heat, cold, dumplings and the occasional slap of a birch branch.
Located on Dubai’s Bluewaters Island and led by Artem Avanesov, Banya Forrest is betting on recovery-led wellness, pairing an authentic Slavic banya tradition with a distinctly modern, luxury finish. There’s no fluffy towel or wind chime in sight – this is the stripped-back, no-frills end of contrast therapy, the biohacker’s favourite blend of extreme heat and extreme cold. The banya tradition is ancient, first recorded around 440 BCE, but you’ll find its rituals alive and well, from Russian villages of old to major cities around the world today.
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
Chief among them is Parenie: a hot-and-cold ritual that involves being whipped and wafted with oak, birch and eucalyptus branches inside a searing sauna, before plunging into an icy pool. I’d read about it and it intimidated me slightly, but contrast therapy has become a viral wellness obsession, so I wanted to see how the traditional version stacked up against the infrared saunas and ice baths I knew.
I arrived an hour before the Parenie ritual, which is guided by banshchiks – sauna therapists trained in Eastern Europe. The venue is a maze: guests wind their way past the entrance, past diners tucking into pierogi and Peroni (yes, it’s licensed, though beer and dumplings before an afternoon of sweating felt illadvised). After changing into swimwear, a robe and a bright green wool hat –essential for regulating body temperature in the heat – I headed through the central wellness space and into the main event.
The steam chamber itself dwarfs the cedar-lined Swedish saunas I’m used to. A wood-burning stove blazes in the corner, benches stagger upward like an amphitheatre, and massage tables sit at the centre for those brave enough to take their venik treatment in public. The ritual – held four or five times a day – turns the heat up alongside brilliant Euro-pop (Daddy Cool blares through the speakers), as men in loincloths waft bundles of leaves at each guest’s limbs until it’s only just bearable. We sit, we stand, we follow orders, heads bowed, breathing through the heat. Just when we think we can’t take it anymore, we’re ordered out of the chamber and into the icy plunge pool outside.
For once in my life, I couldn’t wait for cold water. I emerged feeling like I could punch through a wall.
The science backs the ritual up: contrast therapy has been shown to aid muscle recovery, cell health and immune function, and reduce inflammation, though it’s not for anyone with heart or respiratory conditions. For the rest of us, Banya Forrest delivers exactly what it promises – a jolt of clarity, a serious bonding experience, and, according to my friend’s sleep tracker, noticeably better sleep for days after. I’ve been back four times since.
Banya Forrest, Bluewaters Island. Daily, 10am to 11pm. Dhs300 to Dhs450 for three hours. Tel: (0)50 486 3224. @banya_forrest
Dink in the city
Step aside, padel – pickleball is having a moment. Here’s where to play in Dubai
WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN
Padel may still be Dubai’s racquet sport of choice, but pickleball is quickly making a case for itself. The fast-growing game blends tennis, badminton and table tennis into one surprisingly addictive sport that’s easy to learn, social by design and just competitive enough to keep you coming back. Ready to see what all the fuss is about? These are the top places to play...
01
Summer Court, ICD
Brookfield Place
Fancy trying pickleball without committing to a club membership? Head to ICD Brookfield Place, where the game is taking over The Summer Court as part of the venue’s Summer Spritzers programme. Running until August 16, the pop-up court sits alongside a packed calendar of wellness, art, food and cultural activations, making it more of a summer hangout than just a sports venue. Open daily from 10am to 1am, it’s an easy way to see what pickleball is all about before deciding whether to dive in properly. To book your spot, download the Picklers app.
Until August 16
@icdbrookfieldplace
02
Picklers, Al Quoz
If pickleball had a headquarters in Dubai, this would be it. Picklers is the city’s first dedicated indoor pickleball club, with six air-conditioned courts and a super welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to join a game, even if you’ve never picked up a paddle before. Beginner clinics cover everything from serving and groundstrokes to mastering the famous “kitchen” (the no-volley zone that becomes the centre of every good rally), while regular open-play sessions mean you’ll rarely struggle to find a doubles partner. Court hire ranges from Dhs90 to Dhs120 depending on peak, or off-peak hours.
@picklers.ae
03
Dubai Sports World, DWTC
Every summer, Dubai Sports World turns Dubai World Trade Centre into one giant indoor playground, packing football pitches, basketball courts, tennis courts and more under one air-conditioned roof. Its three pickleball courts make it one of the easiest places to give the sport a go, particularly if you’re already visiting for another activity. Court hire starts from Dhs90 per hour during weekday off-peak hours and Dhs120 per hour during peak times and weekends, making it an accessible option for casual games with friends.
@dubaisportsworld
04
PickleTurf, Port Rashid
Hidden inside Just Padel at Hangar 4 in Port Rashid, PickleTurf proves you don’t need a dedicated club to build a loyal following. The indoor venue offers year-round playing conditions, making it a solid option when Dubai’s weather has other ideas. Whether you’re squeezing in a quick evening game or introducing friends to the sport for the first time, it’s a straightforward, no-frills place to get plenty of rallies in.
@pickleturf
ICD Brookfield Place
Dubai Sports World, DWTC
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SHELF Discovery
Inside the ‘grocery store tourism’ trend that’s been taking over social media
WORDS: YI-HWA HANNA
Some say it started with an egg sandwich. Specifically, the egg salad sandwich sold at 7-Eleven stores across Japan (and much of East Asia), for around US$2 (about Dhs7). For locals, it’s an everyday convenience store staple. But in recent years, the humble ‘tamago sando’ has captured the attention of travellers everywhere, landing on the ‘must-try’ list of countless itineraries – and helping to kick off the grocery store tourism trend now being called ‘shelf discovery’.
Travellers are increasingly chasing authenticity – and few places deliver it quite like the grocery store. It’s a window into local culture, revealed through what lands in people’s baskets. For tourists, it’s a chance to unearth the ‘best kept secrets’ locals consider staples – plus serious cultural clout for knowing a destination’s ‘real’ flavour.
The numbers back it up. According to a 2026 trend report from Hilton, 77 per cent of travellers enjoy browsing
FROM LOCAL TO GLOBAL
the food aisles of local supermarkets while abroad. Social media has supercharged the trend, too: search ‘grocery store tourism’ on TikTok and you’ll find upwards of 50 million posts, with viral clips racking up as many as three million views. Grocery items also double as affordable souvenirs –especially appealing amid rising global living costs – with the added social currency of being easily shareable. And the more unique the item, the more click-worthy it is.
As a perishable item, the tamago sando – pillowy shokupan (milk bread) with a rich Kewpie-mayo filling – isn’t easy to take home. But plenty of other grocery finds rank among Japan’s most popular souvenirs, from Tokyo Banana to Kit-Kat flavours you won’t find anywhere else: green tea, wasabi, soy sauce, purple sweet potato and sakura (cherry blossom).
From rare cheeses in France to unexpected flavours of crisps, the local grocery store is now a treasure trove for travellers.
The Dubai effect
Closer to home, we all know the story. FIX Dessert Chocolatier’s ‘Dubai Chocolate’ has been a worldwide sensation since it launched in 2022, making waves in Dubai before spreading across the country and selling out with every restock. Now you’ll spot Dubai Chocolate-flavoured everything across the globe, from a gelato stall in Montenegro to a crêpe stand in the south of France. Imitations are everywhere – but for true fans, nothing beats the original, and getting your hands on one is akin to finding a golden ticket in item,
a Willy Wonka chocolate bar. It’s also become the go-to gift for GCC residents heading abroad, made easier by its recent arrival at Dubai Duty Free.
“It’s incredible, and so humbling, to think that our ‘Can’t Get Knafeh Of It’ bar has become a global sensation, even carving out its own category in the confectionery world. Since FIX is only available in the UAE, we hear every day from travellers and international customers who are always asking how they can get their hands on ‘The original Dubai chocolate’. It’s been amazing to see that excitement,” says Sarah Hamouda, CEO and co-founder of FIX Dessert Chocolatier.
“We love that so many people discover FIX while travelling, and it’s been really exciting to grow our presence in travel retail, with FIX now available at Dubai International Airport in both Terminal 3 and Terminal 1, and at Changi Airport at Singapore as well,” she adds.
The pistachio-chocolate pairing has since inspired South Korea’s viral Dujjonku cookie, popularised by K-pop idols, while India’s Parle G biscuit courted the same social media buzz in 2023 by temporarily swapping its vintage ‘Parle-G Girl’ artwork for an Instagram influencer’s face.
Cult classics and US$50,000 tote bags
As the world’s biggest consumer of ultraprocessed, packaged foods, the US naturally has its own viral finds, with tourists scooping up cult favourites such as Chamoy Pickles, Takis Fuego Chili and Pepper Lime Tortilla Chips, and Mike’s Hot Honey.
Sometimes, it’s not even food travellers are after. At American grocery chain Trader Joe’s, it’s the tote bag that’s coveted. Described by Forbes as a ‘global status symbol’, it sells in-store for US$2.99 (around AED 11) – yet has been spotted on eBay for as much as US$50,000 (AED 183,625). The catch? You can only get one by visiting the US, being gifted one, or paying a reseller – and that scarcity is exactly what makes it so desirable.
Perishables get hunted, too. Los Angeles upscale grocer Erewhon Market is famous for a strawberry with a three-day shelf life: imported from Japanese luxury fruit purveyor Elly Amai and sold individually in a jewellery box-style case for around US$20 (AED 73). After an influencer (whose family happens to own Erewhon) declared it “the best strawberry” on TikTok, shoppers have flocked in to test the hype for themselves.
DUBAI BUYS
Want an edible regional souvenir? Try these cult classics!
Old habits, new hype
Of course, foodie travellers have been doing this forever. Italy and France have long drawn visitors picking up rare cheeses, gourmet butters, truffles and cured meats, while an Italian holiday lives on at home through artisanal pasta or the less-sweet, made-in-Italy Nutella. No trip to The Netherlands is complete without stroopwafels, and there’s no better place to stock up on Swedish fish than Sweden itself. For Anglophiles, cultural clout awaits in Monster Munch’s Pickled Onion crisps, Tunnock’s Teacakes, the original UK Cadbury’s Dairy Milk, or M&S Percy Pigs and Colin the Caterpillar cake.
For frequent flyers and lifelong expats, the grocery run abroad has always been part of the trip. Popular mementos include Çaj Mali, a wild mountain tea bought for US$1 (AED 3.67) a packet in Albania; Samahan herbal tea from Sri Lanka; and pineapple cakes, I-MEI Puffs and UniPresident Instant Noodles from Taiwan. No trip to South Africa is complete without bringing back biltong, while Filipinos often gift everything from chicharrón to Iced Gem Biscuits as ‘pasalubong’ –homecoming gifts for loved ones.
Chips Oman
While the rest of the world goes wild for Cheetos (and so does the GCC), UAE residents have Chips Oman - an iconic zingy potato crisp. 02
Al Nassma Before ‘Dubai Chocolate’, this rich chocolate made with camel milk made waves. 03 Walkers Shortbread Camels
This camel-shaped exclusive of the iconic buttery treat is only available in the Middle East and makes for a great gift.
For seasoned travellers, grocery store tourism isn’t a novelty – it’s a shortcut to understanding a place. In an era of highly curated travel, the supermarket remains refreshingly unfiltered, its shelves more honest than any guidebook or influencer. Shelf discovery proves that sometimes, the most memorable souvenirs aren’t found in museums or boutiques, but between the bread and the milk.
This article was rst published in Business Traveller Middle East – the region’s leading travel magazine. businesstraveller. com/middle-east
‘Can’t Get Knafeh Of It’ bar
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl
Striking architecture, spacious rooms and a prime Corniche location come together for a refined city escape.
WORDS: AARTI SAUNDALKAR
If your ideal hotel is one where the stay itself is part of the experience, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl makes a strong case. Its spacious rooms, standout views, dining experiences and elegant design make guests want to linger a little longer.
THE SETTING
Rising above the West Corniche, the glassclad landmark makes a striking impression as it pairs sweeping Arabian Gulf views with contemporary interiors, spacious rooms and a refined sense of modern luxury. Inside, design details add character to the spaces, creating a hotel that feels polished yet personal.
THE LOCATION
The hotel’s address places guests within easy reach of some of Abu Dhabi’s most celebrated sights. Sitting opposite Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental and just minutes from Qasr Al Watan, the hotel offers a frontrow position to explore the capital’s cultural landmarks, while Marina Mall and the city centre are only a short drive away.
THE ROOM
We stayed in a King Palace View room during our visit. The room itself is a calm,
contemporary retreat, with a plush king bed, spacious bathroom and thoughtful touches. But the highlight is undoubtedly the view, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing Abu Dhabi’s skyline and putting some of the capital’s most recognisable landmarks on display.
When a city is defined by its architecture, the view becomes part of the experience. There’s something magical about waking up to a landmark in the distance, framed against the skyline as part of the city’s daily rhythm. And that’s exactly what guests are treated to at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi, with breathtaking views showing the transformation of the city from morning to evening.
THE ACTIVITIES
Beyond the room, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi offers plenty of ways to slow down and switch off. The hotel’s leisure facilities are designed for both relaxation and recreation, from its outdoor pool and private beach access to its state-of-the-art fitness centre and tranquil spa. Whether you’re looking to spend a lazy afternoon by the water, squeeze in a workout or unwind with a treatment, the hotel offers a well-rounded escape from the pace of the city.
THE FOOD
The dining scene at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi reflects the hotel’s international character, with a mix of restaurants and bars catering to every kind of occasion.
From the Italian-inspired plates at Verso to the polished ambience of Lexx, the hotel offers plenty of reasons to stay in for the evening. The latter was also recognised at the What’s On Abu Dhabi Awards 2026, earning a Highly Commended accolade for its bar offering. If you love a good breakfast, allow yourself plenty of time to explore the expansive spread. With a generous selection of international favourites, freshly baked pastries, fresh fruit, hot dishes and more, it’s the kind of buffet where you’ll want to take your time and make your way through the many stations at your own pace.
THE FINAL SAY
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi feels like the kind of hotel best enjoyed at a slower pace. From its striking architecture and spacious rooms to its dining and leisure facilities, it leaves guests wanting more time to explore.
THE COST
Rates for August start at around Dhs605 per night for the King Palace View room.
THE DETAILS
West Corniche, Abu Dhabi. @hyatt.com
The RitzCarlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Old money looks meets new-world luxury
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
This Abu Dhabi grande dame comes carved from pure Venetian Renaissance chic, and delivers the warmest form of Middle Eastern hospitality. But is the Ritz really all glitz and glamour?
THE SETTING
Living in the UAE, we’re often left numb to architectural majesty; bricks and mortar have to conspire in something truly special to register. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is that rare exception. It’s a grand Palazzo rising from the Al Maqta waterfront, flanked by lush gardens, expansive private villas and an exclusive stretch of beach. Inside, its bones are just as refined, braced by timeless elegance and filled with marble-finished marrow.
THE LOCATION
Just far enough from the city’s brightest lights, resting on calm creek waters, the hotel operates a masterclass in serenity and seclusion. That tranquillity is echoed in its signature, beyond-five-star service and uninterrupted views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. A stone’s throw from the airport, and a short ride from Yas Island and Downtown Abu Dhabi, escape doesn’t come at the expense of convenience.
THE DESIGN
High Venetian charm drives the cardinal
aesthetic, seamlessly interlacing with authentic Middle Eastern opulence. High ceilings and voluminous space honour the grandeur promised in the name, while chandeliers, dark wood finishes and elaborate staircases bestow an unmistakably regal edge. There are playful elements too; walls replete with the fruit of artistic endeavour, and scattered modern touches anchor in a deeper shade of detail.
THE ROOM
There’s incredible variety across the rooms, suites and villas – all maintaining the standards set in the communal areas. Each spacious hideaway comes with a stirring vista of the beach, gardens or Grand Mosque, with new ultra-luxurious villas on the way soon. We stayed in a Club Executive Suite, a sophisticated, modular set-up with enough room to host a round of competitive tanoura dancing. It feels mature and possessed of true trust-fund pedigree.
THE ACTIVITES
If your time away calls you towards an active path, the leisure treasure trove includes padel courts, one of the capital’s largest outdoor pools, an ultra-modern gym and
a FIFA-standard floodlit football field. The most precious gem, though, is the counterbalance to all this fitness furore. The recently launched Ritz-Carlton Spa is peaceof-mind manifest. Structurally, it mirrors the lotus leaf, carrying the emblem through its experiential offering. Tailored rituals and facilities include a dedicated couple’s room, Zero Gravity and Fusion Massage Chairs, a Timeless Capsule and revitalising corporeal elixirs courtesy of ESPA and Amra. We emerged anew from a fully bespoke, rejuvenating 60-minute massage.
THE FOOD
The gastronomic portfolio contains precisely the quality and diversity you’d expect. All-day diner Giornotte revels in authentic Italian flair and stages one of the best-respected brunches in the city. The Forge carries a rare menu of particularly well-done steaks. Signature standout LiJiang is a modern Asian mission statement for fragrant flavours and creative plating. Mijana is the flag-carrying ambassador for Michelin-selected Middle Eastern cuisine, with more bars and casual options to explore.
THE FINAL SAY
This hotel counts sitting US presidents amongst its guests, and there’s an inescapable air of dynasty to it.
THE COST
Rates start at around Dhs616 for the lead-in room category, or Dhs1,975 for the Club Executive Suite.
THE DETAILS
Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi. @ritzcarltonabudhabi
Arjaan by Rotana, Media City
This might be Media City’s best-kept secret
WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE
When we talk of hidden gems, we naturally picture hole-inthe-wall shawarma spots down shaded side streets, or unassuming cafés guarding secret family recipes. But the term can, and should, be applied to hotels, too. And whilst Arjaan by Rotana is not conspicuous amongst the corporate blocks of Media City, what’s contained within it might just blow your mind.
THE SETTING
If you’re in Media City, or travelling down Beach Road towards Dubai Marina, you’ll almost certainly have spotted it. Arjaan by Rotana is a handsome totem, cast in heritage-inspired architecture and capped with domed roofs and a teasing glasstopped atrium. It feels immediately distinct from place, carrying a banner for worlds both old and new. It’s one case where we’re invited to judge a book by its cover.
THE LOCATION
Arjaan by Rotana is that poetic rose, rising from the briar patch of commercial publishing houses and advertising boiler rooms. But its GPS coordinates do more
than flatter it by comparison, providing a point-blank jump-off to Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters, Dubai Harbour, The Greens and Barsha. It’s Media City Amphitheatre-adjacent, a walkable jaunt from The Agenda, and plugged into Dubai’s main arterial roads – yet set far enough apart that commuting cacophony won’t spoil your break.
THE DESIGN
The interior design scheme at Arjaan by Rotana is most neatly invoked using terms like contemporary, light, airy and calm. There’s a piano in the lobby, and a recent part-refurbishment has lifted rooms and corridors into spaces of unfussy chic. You’ll find inner peace, too, in the sunlightstreaked Skylight Venue, a glorious glassroofed atrium often used for weddings and grand events. The guiding philosophy seems to be a characterful, reenergising respite from the frantic pace of the surrounding city. Mission accomplished.
THE ROOM
If Arjaan by Rotana is a hidden gem, this is the crystal lattice at its heart. We stayed in a Sea View One Bedroom Suite with Private
Pool, and we’re convinced it’s the best bijoux private party pad in the area. You get all the convenience of apartment-style living, a kitchenette, a comfort-forward lounge area and, of course, the pool, with views cascading out to the Arabian Gulf. Nor is it of the eye-bath plunge variety; it’s a generously portioned, as-close-as-makesno-difference mini-infinity pool. This is rockstar living on a rational budget. Arjaan is also hugely popular for long-term lets.
THE ACTIVITIES
For those looking to unwind, The Veranda is an elevated pool terrace instantly reminiscent of a Marrakchi Riad – quiet, secluded, and serving light bites and liquid libations. And if you absolutely have to get those reps in, the Bodyline Fitness and Wellness Centre is abundantly equipped to whip you into shape.
THE FOOD
The tip of the culinary spear at Arjaan by Rotana is Cilantro, the all-day dining restaurant. Majoring in international cuisine, it offers big breakfast spreads, a comprehensive déjeuner buffet, business lunch and an Arabian-leaning á la carte offering. A trip to Cilantro café is a must.
THE FINAL SAY
Arjaan sets a lofty bar for serene stays in Media City – treat it as a hot tip hotel.
THE COST
One night in the Sea View One Bedroom Suite with Private Pool starts at Dhs1,200.
