Photo: @alexsaibrahim Instagram

As the weekend arrives, Dubai feels livelier and time to be out and about. From newly introduced menus to restorative spa rituals and fashion pop-ups, the city is serving reasons to step out.

Whether you’re planning something low-key or looking to go all out, GRAZIA brings you the most exciting ways to spend your weekend.

Take some time for yourself (& listen to Grazia’s new podcast)

This weekend, take some time for yourself. Whether it’s enjoying a long sunrise or sunset walk, soaking up the sun at the beach, relaxing poolside, watching the world go by in a cafe, block out the world with your headphones and lock in to GRAZIA’s brand new podcast. The Making Of… is a podcast that creates space for meaningful conversations and untold perspectives of success stories we think we already know. In the first episode, we sit down with Roxie Nafousi – best-selling author, self-development coach, and one of the leading voices in manifestation and mindset. Known for transforming the way people approach confidence, purpose, and personal growth, Roxie has helped thousands of people reframe their lives through her work, books, and teachings.

Watch the full episode below or listen now on all streaming platforms.

SIP IN STYLE AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL EMIRATES PALACE

Episodes x OLDR Images (
Photo: Supplied

From January 13–26, Episodes at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental will host its very first afternoon tea collaboration – and they’ve partnered with none other than Oscar de la Renta. Inspired by the house’s Pre-Spring 2026 garden collection, this is high fashion translated into high tea. Enjoy bespoke tea pairings in a space dressed in floral reverie, while savouring creations like hibiscus salmon rosettes, lobster crowned with Krystal caviar, and foie gras mille-feuille. Even the pastry trolley gets a luxe makeover, offering pâté en croûte and a strawberry-mint baba that mirrors the collection’s delicate feather motifs. Of course, the sweets are just as editorial – think jasmine-peach choux, exotic pavlova, and tonka cheesecake with rhubarb and strawberry, all served alongside warm scones and palace honey. Chic, floral, and utterly delicious.

join The Opening act of 25 Jump Street

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Dubai’s newest social hotspot, 25 Jump Street, is officially opening its doors with a two-night launch this weekend on January 16 and 17. Set in One Central beside the 25hours Hotel, the pedestrian-friendly street brings together a curated mix of restaurants, bars and cultural spaces, from homegrown dining favourites to late-night entertainment. Brought to life with roaming performers, live music and street-wide celebrations, it’s a space that mirrors Dubai’s lively weekend rhythm.

Experience Anjana Spa’s VIP Hammam Rituals

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Anjana Spa, located at Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites, is setting the tone for a slower and more restorative January with its signature VIP Hammam rituals. Throughout the month, guests can choose from three indulgent 70-minute experiences: the deeply cleansing Moroccan Hammam, the floral-infused Hurrem Sultan Hammam, or the Bali Hammam with its exotic lulur scrub. Set in a tranquil beachfront setting and finished with a bubble wash massage and a premium hair treatment, it’s the ultimate sensory escape for Dhs1,450 per person.

Feast in Pizza Week at Fi’lia

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Perched on the 70th floor of SLS Dubai, Fi’lia is celebrating Italy’s most loved dish with a dedicated Pizza Week, taking place from January 12 to 18. For one week only, guests can enjoy a curated selection of six exclusive pizzas created by Head Chef Célia Stoecklin, showcasing seasonal ingredients and thoughtful flavour combinations, all served against stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. An elevated tribute to the Italian craft of Pizza, it’s the perfect weekend plan to slow down, gather and indulge.

Soak in the Rays at The Lagoon Beach Club at Park Hyatt Dubai

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Set along the tranquil shores of Dubai Creek, Park Hyatt Dubai is introducing a new chapter with The Lagoon Beach Club. Framed by skyline views, white sand and 100-metre infinity lagoons, the space brings Mediterranean slow living to Dubai’s otherwise hustling energy. Expect a menu full of Italian favourites, think fresh seafood and premium grilled meats. Also a space for families, the Park Hyatt offers The Lagoon Family a space catered and thoughtfully curated for the little ones.

Try Brunch & Cake’s New Dessert Menu

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Brunch & Cake has just unveiled a refreshed dessert menu across its UAE locations, bringing fresh takes on classic sweet treats inspired by the brand’s much-loved “In Grandma We Trust” philosophy. From the Pineapple Upside Down Cake crowned with cloud-like mascarpone to the Tahini Burnt Basque Cheesecake and indulgent Chocolate Hazelnut Gateau, the new menu is reason enough to save room for dessert this weekend.

play dress up at the Never Fully Dressed Pop-Up

Photo: @neverfullydressed Instagram

Female-founded feel-good fashion label, Never Fully Dressed, has landed at Alserkal with its latest pop-up. Not their first Dubai rodeo, the British label brings back joyful energy, colour and bold prints to the city’s art and cultural hub. Taking place until January 23, this weekend is the perfect time to pop over to Alserkal, grab a matcha from The Grove and indulge in a little retail therapy at Never Fully Dressed.

Waves of Sound at Shimmers

This Saturday, January 17, Shimmers returns with the Waves of Sound, a live electronic music experience located at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam. Set against the Arabian Gulf with uninterrupted views of the Burj Al Arab, the afternoon unfolds with melodic sets from artists: Awaaz, Double Touch and Reigan. Weekend sunset plans don’t get much better than this.