Photo: @nathaliefanj, Instagram

As August unfolds and the sunlight lingers, slower days invite a more curated kind of weekend.

Whether it’s lounging in understated luxury by the sea or indulging in menus inspired by refined tastes, Dubai’s offerings remain effortlessly chic. GRAZIA has curated the most stylish ways to spend your weekend.

A TROPICAL HIDEAWAY

Banyan Tree Spa Dubai rainforest experience
Photo: @signatureluxurytravel Instagram

When the city’s heat becomes too much, slip into the Banyan Tree Spa’s Rainforest Experience – a vast, completely private spa suite designed to transport you far beyond Dubai’s summer. One minute you’re in the city, the next you’re wandering through a magical tunnel of sensory showers that alternate between tropical mist and refreshing downpours. Drift between the herbal dry sauna and the steam room’s enveloping mist, or sink into the Jacuzzi where powerful massage jets tend to every knot. Brave the invigorating ice shower – the ultimate reset for glowing skin and a clear mind – or the experience shower, which shifts from warm tropical rains to cool forest sprays for a full sensory awakening. For the ultimate pampering experience, book in for a full-body massage afterwards. You won’t regret it.

transport to the FRENCH RIVIERA

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From Côte d’Azur, African Queen is known for its refined elegance and relaxed charm. This legendary venue brings its signature Southern Mediterranean cuisine and African-inspired décor to the city. Every Saturday from 2 PM to 6 PM, African Queen turns into a lush escape with jungle-inspired interiors, live DJ beats, dancers, and a vibrant crowd.  With a three-course sharing-style menu packed with flavour. This iconic restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience. 

AN ESCAPE FROM THE SUMMER HEAT

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As the summer heat sets in, Cinema Akil invites you to slip into the cool sanctuary of an air-conditioned space and lose yourself in the timeless magic of cinema, an annual tradition that’s as nostalgic as it is refreshing. Movie lovers can also get their hands on the cinema’s curated F&B offering, with everything from fresh popcorn to seasonal treats, making it the perfect indoor escape for long summer days. Cinema Akil are Alsop bringing back the beloved Summer of Classics. Running from 11th July to 25th September 2025 at its flagship home at Alserkal Avenue, this year’s edition brings together 14 influential films that span 100 years of cinema. 

A SUNDAY FULL OF TRADITION

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The DIFC hotspot has become a go-to for a Sunday roast, crafting an experience that’s both comforting and refined. The Guild’s take on Britain’s most beloved dish, the Sunday Roast, celebrates everything glorious about the meal, crisp roasties, golden Yorkshires, and gravy you could drink. All served in The Guild’s signature style- sharp, seasonal, and unapologetically refined. Of course, it wouldn’t be Sunday Roast without ending on dessert. Indulge in the apple and rhubarb crumble – the perfect ending to your dinner. From midday, every Sunday, indulge in the roast experience that combines comfort with class.

Indulge in a taste of summer

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Known for its energetic atmosphere, captivating live performances, and stunning views of Dubai, Barfly by Buddha-Bar, located in the Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, invites you to discover a taste of summer, a limited-edition seasonal set menu celebrating the flavours of summer. The sharing style menu offers an elevated culinary journey through the freshest ingredients of the season. Enjoy an array of cold and hot starters, mains, and desserts, priced at AED 250 per person. 

golden hour glow meets Poolside chic

Photo: @nobubythebeach, Instagram

Set within Atlantis The Royal, this ultra-luxe beach club brings Nobu’s iconic style to the sun-soaked shores of the Palm, blending modern luxury with clean Japanese minimalism in the most refined way. Whether you’re lounging poolside or going all-out with a private cabana complete with its own plunge pool and A/C, this spot takes indulgence to another level. In need to cool off after catching some rays? Head inside the restaurant and enjoy a long, laid-back lunch with Nobu fan favourites, or keep it chill and have signature bites delivered straight to your lounger.

a WEEKEND culinary moment

Trèsind Dubai

Nestled in the heart of Dubai Marina, Trèsind Dubai is an Indian fine dining destination where modern storytelling meets nostalgic flavour, plated with artistry and flair. The restaurant has reimagined Indian cuisine, blending bold ingredients, refined technique, and theatrical presentation. Dishes arrive like edible sculptures, often under swirling smoke or finished tableside with an element of surprise. Think arugula pani puri prepared with precision, comforting curries redefined, and nostalgic flavours reborn through a contemporary lens.

Dinner with a view

Photo: @lingling, Instagram

Set within the iconic Atlantis The Royal, Ling Ling’s summer menu invites you to savour bold, contemporary Asian flavours through a curated three-course dinner experience. Begin with vibrant starters like miso-roasted eggplant or crispy BBQ duck bao buns, followed by mains ranging from roasted sambal salmon to tender lamb shank rendang and vegetarian mie goreng. Each course pairs effortlessly with your choice of bubbles, a crafted cocktail, or a refreshing mocktail. Finish on a sweet note with mango pandan sticky rice or a decadent hazelnut chocolate moelleux. Available every weekend until 30th September, this is sophisticated dining redefined for the season, all for just Dhs295 per person.

A NEW DINING EXPERIENCE

Photo: @threebros_kitchen, Instagram

While their award-winning Orfali bistro is currently closed for renovations, the culinary trio has launched Three Bros Kitchen just next door.  Created by Mohammed, Wassim, and Omar Orfali, the concept keeps everything fans loved about the original, but with a more intimate feel. The menu blends Syrian staples with European classics and Asian influences, all cooked to perfection with that signature Orfali twist. Expect bold, unexpected flavour combinations, comfort dishes with a creative edge, and an ever-evolving lineup that keeps you coming back. Tree Brothers Kitchen is the go-to spot while the main bistro gets its refresh.