NEW ADVENTURES

Feel like you’ve seen all that the capital has to offer? Think again… Words: Harriet Shephard

Secret islands, amazing architecture, natural wonders and more all await, and some of them are still relatively undiscovered. Check out these six amazing off the beaten track spots in Abu Dhabi

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Bani Hashim Mosque

Of course, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is breathtakingly beautiful, but for an alternative culture fix that you haven’t visited every single time your family or friends are in town, we recommend hopping across the Grand Canal to the more understated, but equally gorgeous, Bani Hashim Mosque. Adorned with a sparkling gold dome and gorgeous blue and turquoise engravings, it’s a super impressive and intricate example of Islamic architecture. Built as a direct replica of the Dome of the Rock shrine in Jerusalem, spending a few moments admiring the stunning facade of this special place is a humbling experience. a Near Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Rabdan, Al Maqtaa, Abu Dhabi.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

Photo credit: @halakrunz

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INSTA-WORTHY ATTRACTION

Al Wathba Long Salt Lake

Admittedly, more and more people have started to flock here over the last few months. But still, only the truly dedicated Abu Dhabi explorers have seen this utterly sensational, Insta-worthy attraction in person. Boasting crystal clear, azure waters dotted with ethereal, mushroom-shaped salt formations, it almost looks like it was purposefully made for a photo shoot. But no, whilst the channel that holds Al Wathba Long Salt Lake might be manmade, the striking floating islands of sodium chloride are totally natural. Hopping from one to the other is a thrill like are totally natural. Hopping from one to the other is a thrill like you’ve never known, but please tread carefully and take care not you’ve never known, but please tread carefully and take care not to damage them. This mesmerising lagoon is only about an hour’s to damage them. This mesmerising lagoon is only about an hour’s drive from downtown Abu Dhabi, and while you’re there you may as well check out the slightly more famous, and just as otherworldly, Fossil Dunes formations. You only live once after all... q Al Wathba Desert, Abu Dhabi.

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TOP-SECRET FLOATING MOUNDS OF SAND

Kashta Rental Boats

Calm, bright blue and green waters, untouched white sands and not another soul to be seen for miles around; no, this isn’t the Maldives we’re describing, it’s actually the mystical, and exceptionally gorgeous, sand bank islands of Saadiyat Island. Never heard of them? Well, that’s not too surprising considering that these idyllic, top-secret floating mounds of sand only appear at certain times of day when the tide is low. But don’t worry, you don’t have to become an expert on the patterns and movements of the Arabian Gulf to find them. Instead, you can enlist the help of the brilliant seafarers at Kasha boat rental service, who know the waters surrounding Saadiyat Island like the back of their hands. They’ll take you and four pals out to the islands at precisely the right time (normally early morning during the summer), and provide chairs, an umbrella, water and a kayak. Then, once you’ve taken as many photos as your phone can handle, they’ll pick you up and take you back. Dolphins can be spotted out here throughout the year, and it’s guaranteed to be the dreamiest, most relaxing few hours you’ll ever have. a Kashta Rental Boats, Saadiyat Island, daily 7am to 2pm and 4pm to 6pm, Dhs500 (five people for three hours), Dhs600 (five people for five hours). Tel: (0)56 366 5335). @kkashtaa.

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Makerspace

ARTY HUB FOR CREATIVE MINDS

It may not be a cultural landmark or have panoramic vistas, but we’ve never been anywhere quite like Makerspace. If you want to put this summer to good use and come away with something to show for it, then this might just become your new favourite hangout. An arty hub for creative minds, members of Makerspace get access to state-of-the-art equipment suitable for a wide range of disciplines such as woodwork, textiles, metalwork, electronics, ceramics, and more. But as well as empowering and inspiring SMEs and freelancers, the Al Zeina establishment offers over 70 different classes a month, including starter sessions in skills like wood and metal work. BRDG café has also just opened up in the same building, so there’s even somewhere cool to go for lunch break. Plus, you never know what fresh connections or new friends you’ll make whilst nursing a cappuccino and pondering your next ceramic pot design. a Block C1, Al Zeina, Al Raha Beach, Saturday to Thursday, 9am to 9pm, day passes start from Dhs95, classes start from Dhs220. Tel: (0)2 558 8624. @makerspacead.

Photo credit: Mohammed Al Farran

Photo credit: @up6

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Moon Island Resort

Formerly called Happiness Island, we first went to Moon when it was a somewhat rough-and-ready party spot. But now, the crescent-shaped resort has rebranded as a family-friendly, classy hideaway that comes complete with an infinity pool, swim-up bar and private beach. Still excellent value for money (day passes are AED 150, fully CLASSY HIDEAWAY redeemable on food and beverage), and capable of throwing big parties when the occasion calls for it, the island now boasts an extensive bar-bite menu, kids’ play area, inflatable waterpark and two adorable, friendly lamas (we mean, why wouldn’t there be?). The private villas are currently closed for renovation, but in a few months’ time you’ll also be able to spend a full night here, too. Just a ten-minute boat ride from downtown but offering a totally different vibe to the hustle and bustle of the city, Moon lets you experience total escapism with minimal hassle and for a reasonable price. Oh, and make sure you get a photo in front of the pool and its city-skyline backdrop, just in case your friends back home need reminding that you still live in the best city in the world. a Boats depart from The British Club, Mina Saadiyat, weekdays, 11am to 9pm, weekends 11am to 10pm, Dhs150 (redeemable). Tel: (0)50 954 3636. @moon_island_ad.

Photo credit: PURA Eco Retreat

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PURA Eco Retreat

Gone are the days when we had to road trip it up to Fujairah or Ras Al Khaimah to go back to nature and do some fancy glamping. PURA Eco Retreat, the capital’s first environmentally friendly resort, is a refreshing contrast to the flashy, glamorous, marble-floored hotels that we’ve become so accustomed to. This tranquil, peaceful oasis of natural beauty is nestled on the edge of Jubail Mangrove Park, and it’s been purposefully designed to have minimal impact on the surrounding protected area. A wilderness escape infused with a subtly luxurious touch, each state-of-the-art dome tent comes with an ensuite bathroom, king-sized bed, private firepit and stunning views out over the surrounding landscape. Adults-only and totally car-free for extra relaxation, there’s also loads of cool activities to do such as kayaking, biking and beach yoga, plus a healthy, ecofriendly restaurant and super-cool beach bar complete with upcycled tables and chairs. a Jubail island. Tel: (0)50 383 7878, staypura.com. @staypura. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY RESORT

This is a city that works hard, plays hard, but, on a boiling hot day, can feel like hard work. So look at this month’s magazine as a little cooling comfort pack to see you through the summer season. Let yourself be whisked off to our favourite indoor bars and hideaways – with AC, summery feels and maybe an ice cold drink to keep you chill. Then dream of refreshing dishes to fill your belly. You’ve never had it so cool.

From a greenhouse shala to a sunken city, What’s On makes itself at home in the coolest spots in Dubai

KEEP YOUR COOL DURING A SERIOUS BOARD GAME SESSION

The Six’s Downtown café has got the monopoly (no pun intended) on fun with over 1,000 games to play inside their friendly, lively space. Pay just Dhs35 at the door for unlimited access to their library of games and engage in a battle of wits with your friends over shareable sliders, salads, sundaes and wings. a Burj Vista, Downtown Dubai, Sun to Wed 9am to midnight, Thur to Sat 9am to 2am. Tel: (0)43342666. thesixcafe.com

SCUBA DIVE IN THE WORLD’S DEEPEST POOL

Depending on how comfortable you are with swimming, wandering far into the deep end can be either exhilarating or borderline panicinducing. If you tend to experience the latter when you can no longer touch the bottom, then maybe stay away from Deep Dive Dubai, the now Guinness World Record-holding deepest pool for divers located in Nad Al Sheba. If in fact you see this as the ultimate playground, boy, would you be right. Aside from being a whopping 60m deep, there’s a whole sunken city to explore with empty streets, a garage and an arcade that freedivers and scuba enthusiasts can discover. And thanks to a warm water temperature, you’ll neither be boiling hot (have you neither be boiling hot (have you been in the ocean, lately?), or freezing cold. q deepdivedubai.com.

GET ZEN IN A COMMUNITY GARDEN GREENHOUSE

India may be the home of yoga, but right now Dubai is among the world’s greatest hubs for this super-healthy practice. One of our new favourite hangouts is Just Be, a secret gem in Umm Sequim comprising a green garden, communal kitchen, shop, and a pretty little greenhouse perfect for yoga practice. Dimly lit, cool and calm, with the hushed sounds of other classes taking place around the villa, it feels like your practicing yoga at a festival. q justbewellbeingcenter.com

Why just boil by the pool when you could have your own VIP private cabana?

MANDARIN ORIENTAL

What to expect: The private cabana at Mandarin Oriental is, unsurprisingly, uber luxe. There is comfortable seating and your own private fridge under a sun-dappled wooden canopy. Outside you’ll find plush sun beds leading into the hotel’s gorgeous aqua blue pool. Price: A cabana pass is Dhs1,500 for up to four guests. It includes private butler service, comfortable seating and lounge beds, a private mini-bar stocked with selected soft beverages, a complimentary welcome drink and exotic fruit platter, all day refreshing treats and amenities. a Mandarin Oriental, Jumeirah, Dubai, pool open 8am to sunset daily. Tel: (0)4 777 2223. mandarinoriental.com

PALAZZO VERSACE

What to expect: One Dubai pool you need on your bucket list is La Piscina, found at celebrity-favoured hotel Palazzo Versace. The gorgeous cabanas are evidence of that signature Greek decor that you’ll see around the hotel and they face straight onto the sparkling blue pool – perfect for dipping into when it gets too hot. Price: Dhs2,000 redeemable on food and beverages. a La Piscina, Palazzo Versace Dubai, Jaddaf Waterfront, Dubai, open daily 10am to 7pm, F&B available from 10am to 6pm. Tel: (0)4 556 8895. @lapiscinadubai

JBR BEACH CLUB AZURE BEACH

What to expect: JBR beach club Azure Beach opened its six luxury cabanas back in October 2020, offering guests an exclusive place to catch some sun, relax and socialise. The cabana area, which come in two sizes, boasts a cushy booth, expansive double sun bed and a beautiful private pool for you to dip in and out of as you please. Price: A small private cabana for up to six people is Dhs4,000 minimum spend, fully redeemable on food and beverages, (water and soft drinks included), and a large private cabana for up to 10 people is Dhs6,000 minimum spend, fully redeemable on food and beverages, (water and soft drinks included). a Azure Beach, Rixos Premium Dubai JBR, Dubai, open 10am to 8pm daily. Tel: (0)52 777 9472. azure-beach.com

SAL

What to expect: It doesn’t get much more luxury than hanging out by the pool at Sal, Burj Al Arab’s incredible beach club. Under the shadow of the coveted sail-shaped hotel, the large beach club is split up with two large pools and a man-made beach. Guests can choose between sun beds or a private air-conditioned cabana, complete with sofa seating and a TV. Price: A luxury cabana costs Dhs1,500 for two people, inclusive of a welcome fruit platter and bottle of rose wine (it’s Dhs400 for every additional person). For the ultimate splurge, go for the Royal Cabana, for Dhs5,000 for up to four people, inclusive of a fruit platter and bottle of champagne (Dhs400 for every additional person). a Sal, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah, daily 10am to 7pm, from Dhs800. Tel: (04) 301 7600. jumeirah.com

ZETA

What to expect: If you haven’t yet heard of the incredible rooftop pool and restaurant Zeta, found on the 77th floor of Address Beach Resort, you need it on your radar. For a lavish day out with friends or family, groups of up to seven people can book one of the 12 luxe air-conditioned cabanas. Each one comes with a range of amenities from a coffee machine to a shower, TV, as well as a relaxing space with sofa and two sun loungers. Price: Cabanas are priced at Dhs7,777 for the day, which includes a soft food and beverage package for seven people. For the alcoholic beverages and food package, it’s Dhs10,777. a Zeta Seventy Seven, Address Beach Resort, JBR The Walk, Restaurant 11am to 1am, Pool 10am to sunset, reservations essential. Tel: (0)4 879 8866. addresshotels.com

DRIFT BEACH

What to expect: DRIFT Beach Dubai recently unveiled an upgrade to its already-chic private beach cabana. The Dhs5,000 a day spot offers a luxurious hideaway for up to 10 guests, now complete with a new secluded swimming pool. As a guest at the private beach cabana, you’ll also be able to use the main pool and beach, as well as book a table in the Provençal restaurant. If you’d prefer to enjoy lunch in the cabana, this can also be arranged. Price: Prices start from Dhs5,000 for eight people on weekdays, and Dhs7,500 on weekends. You can add up to two more guests, who will be charged at Dhs500 each. The price includes full day access to the area, complete with a huge air-conditioned cabana, which has a bathroom, large lounge space, widescreen LED TV and shaded sun deck. Plus, the brand-new private pool overlooking One&Only Royal Mirage’s pristine private beach. a DRIFT Beach Dubai, One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina, Pool & Beach: daily 10 am to 7 pm, Restaurant: daily 9am to 9pm Tel: (0)4 315 2200. 9pm Tel: (0)4 315 2200. @driftbeachdubai @driftbeachdubai

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IRIS INDOOR

Iris Dubai moves its signature ambiance inside with the launch of Iris Indoor. The beautiful custom-built bar and lounge features top cuisine, live DJs and entertainment, away from the soaring summer temperatures. q @irisdubai

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THE IRISH VILLAGE

The legendary haunt hoists up its Summer Retreat tent, which means lots of extra seating in the AC. q theirishvillage.com

FIVE BARS WITH GREAT SUMMER TENTS

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[U]BK

Garden party vibes and a nice cool breeze inside [u]bk’s summer tent, with top drinks deals to match. q @ubkdubai

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REFORM SOCIAL BAR & GRILL

Reform’s summer tent in the courtyard aims to be the place to watch all the sporting action this month. q @reformdubai

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LAH LAH

The Asian fusion restaurant/bar in The Greens has extended its indoor capacity by building a glasshouse on the terrace complete with little chandeliers. q @lahlahdxb

Nothing makes us feel better than bagging a bargain

WALLET-FRIENDLY WELLBEING

Guerlain Spa at One&Only The Palm

What would typically be reserved for the rich and famous is on offer to us mere mortals this summer at the glorious One&Only The Palm, and why not take full advantage? For Dhs995, enjoy a one-hour massage, entrance to the adults-only pool and beach, and a three-course light lunch at Zest restaurant or afternoon tea in the lobby lounge. Partners can join pool and lunchtime for an extra Dhs470. q oneandonlyresorts.com/the-palm

Away Spa at W Dubai – The Palm

Summer spa discounts aplenty at Away Spa with 50 per cent off 30-, 60- and 90-minute massages for UAE residents on weekdays (excluding Tuesdays). q w.dxbtp.spa@whotelsworldwide.com

SOFITEL SPA WITH L’OCCITANE

The modern spa inside Sofitel The Obelisk is offering 30 per cent off on any 50 to 80-minute treatments. Tag that on top of its good pool day deal (Dhs200 per adult with Dhs100 redeemable on f&b on weekends), and you’ve got yourselves a tidy day of bliss. q @sofiteltheobelisk

HOT HOTELS

Insta-goals at Address Beach Resort

The hotel’s new summer savers deal means 30 per cent off best available rates including free breakfast and dinner. Best of all, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to the world’s highest outdoor infinity pool. q stayatbeachresort@addresshotels.com

Family staycation at Lapita

For Dhs650, this summer deal comprises a twin resort view room (comfortably fitting a family of four) with breakfast and access to Dubai Parks and Resorts. Guests also receive 20 per cent off any additional f&b. q reservations@ autographhotels.com

36-hour staycation at Taj Jumeirah Lakes Towers

Early check-in and late check out, plus 20 per cent off food and access to the rooftop pool for just Dhs400 (not including VAT). Add onan additional Dhs50 for brekkie. q @taj.jlt

DIFC staycation at The Ritz-Carlton

Summer rates at this swanky DIFC hotel start from Dhs830 exclusively for UAE residents. It includes a stay in a luxury room, breakfast and lunch or dinner at popular Cafe Belge. q ritzcarlton.com

Make it fun and tasty with these brand new concepts

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Summer truffles

Where: Social by Heinz Beck If you like your summer meals with a heavy sprinkling of luxe, Social by Heinz Beck’s five- and seven-course summer truffle menus are just the ticket. Flying in from Umbria, Italy’s largest producer, these truffles are the stars of Social’s chef de cuisine Francesco Acquaviva’s hot new offerings. a Social by Heinz Beck, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Mon to Sat 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs55 (five courses), Dhs700 (seven courses). @socialbyheinzbeck

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Arabic tiger prawns

Where: Topgolf Fuel up post Topgolf session with these juicy harissa marinated jumbo prawns (Dhs210). You get five of these bad boys to eat solo or with mates, and it’s served alongside a citrus and sumac salad. a Topgolf, Emirates Golf Club, Sun to Wed 10am to 1am, Thur 10am to 2am, Fri and Sat 9am to 2am. Tel: (0)4 371999. topgolfdubai.ae

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Floating breakfast

Where: Address Beach Resort Floating food is certainly making a splash on Instagram; folks naval deep posing beside their floating breakfast tray in a hotel pool. But if you’re not going on a summer holiday, bring the summery travel vibes to you, with Address Beach Resort’s new floating brekkie. a Address Beach Resort, daily 9am to noon, Dhs498 per tray (serving two). Tel: (0)4 8798866. @addressbeachresort

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Natsu tasting menu

Where: 99 Sushi Bar Meaning summer in Japanese, the new natsu tasting menu pays homage to toro, the premium fatty blue fin tuna. The exciting menu also features shrimp carpaccio, soft shell crab, Australian wagyu maki, and just a mere 13 delicate dishes total. a Address Downtown Dubai (and Four Seasons in Abu Dhabi), Dhs899 per couple. Tel: (0)4 5472241. @99sushibaruae

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Le Sirenuse specials

Where: Scalini Dubai Celebrating the zest of summer, Scalini Dubai launches a menu of seasonal specials, including fresh burrata served on a bed of pink paradise tomatoes, diced bluefin tuna with chopped avocado, and a Paccheri seafood special with sautéed clams, mussels, calamari, and prawns in a light cherry tomato sauce topped with bottarga. a Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah, daily from noon, from Dhs195. Tel: (0)4 3490068. @scalinidubai