Dubai weekend guide
Photo: @lailaloves Instagram

As Dubai continues to navigate through the summer season, we’re always looking for the perfect way to cool down from the infamous heat, whether that means a lavish poolside escape, a sanctuary spa, or a cafe to grab some cool drinks with your favourite girlfriends. Plus, a spot that comes with an Art Deco backdrop for a chic Instagram post recapping the weekend.

The city is constantly brimming with things to do, from a number of cosy cafes to leisurely lunches. Luckily, GRAZIA brings you everything you need to know to stay fully booked. From a luxurious hammam experience with Snob Salon to a getaway at Sofitel the Palm – here’s our guide to a weekend in Dubai from July 17 to 19.

a pre-holiday essential

Enjoy the perfect pre-holiday ritual with Snob Salon’s Moroccan Hammam. Experience a feeling of complete renewal – as each scrub unveils a new beginning, with silky smooth skin as the result. Courtesy of renowned techniques from Morocco’s Hammam rituals, with the salon’s lavish touch. Often, a summer holiday calls for the perfect beach day in a foreign country. This relaxing beauty endeavour gives a glowing touch to your chic swimsuit photos. Plus, it adds to the perfect holiday glow for your trip recap on Instagram.

luxury from the comfort of your own home

Luxury, beauty and wellness now come right to your doorstep with Ruuby Home Salon. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute blow-dry or a relaxing massage, the best form of luxury comes to you right at home. The five-star experience is perfect if you’re looking for a simple way to elevate your high-maintenance wellness routine. From tanning experiences to facials and intricate manicures, the salon brings everything you need into the comfort of your own home.

Summer Afternoons at KIRA

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Savour the summer with stillness courtesy of exquisite cuisine at Kira. With a refined weekend lunch that infuses Mediterranean with Japanese-inspired dishes. KIRA’s Hirugami menu is perfect for those looking to kickstart the weekend this Friday. With a selection of dishes that reflects seasonal freshness. The menu is available from 12pm to 5pm and is priced at Dhs255. Valuing simplicity and sophistication, the culinary journey involves a selected menu of delicious starters, a main course and a dessert.

A tropical smoothie from Julith

We all need something to carry us through the infamous Dubai heat – luckily, Julith has created the smoothies of the summer. With a refreshing mix of berries and a vibrant colour palette for those who like drinks worthy of an Instagram photo-op. Spend the weekend enjoying a healthy mix of flavourful smoothies that might be your next go-to drink for the summer.

Hit pause at Sofitel the Palm

Tap into the summer season with a much-needed getaway to Sofitel at The Palm Dubai. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape or a vibrant city break, the hotel offers a curated experience thoughtfully. With exceptional dining, a rejuvenating spa and the backdrop of art deco French interiors. The hotel has recently unveiled its summer spa edition ‘Joie de Vivre’, where you can unwind for the day with pool and beach access, leisurely lunches and a relaxing spa endeavour. Escape the cityscape for an afternoon under the cosy shade of the palm trees by the pool.

a coffee date with a twist

There’s nothing better than spoiling yourself after a tough week – and with the constant grind in Dubai, it’s well deserved. Luckily, Page N by Vera Wellness has partnered with Botanical Dubai for a unique cafe concept. The experience allows you to order any drink off their menu, with a handcrafted botanical bouquet. A sip-and-craft experience where you can make your own bouquet colour-coordinated with your chic outfit for Dhs100. If you’re looking for a coffee date with a creative twist – this one’s for you.

the perfect outing for cinema lovers

An experience you don’t want to miss – Cinema Akil has paired up with filmmaker and curator Nezar Andary for an afternoon that brings together Dubai’s cinephile community. The cultural igniter is widely recalled for his award-winning film ‘Unlocking Doors of Cinema’ from 2020. The session will be focused on diving into the depths of cinema’s relationship with memory. Going into the concept that cinema is directly parallel to memory, often in a way that solidifies it in the mind even more strongly. If you’re looking to learn more about the film industry as well as meet a community of like-minded movie lovers, this session is an essential visit. Occurring on Sunday, July 19, from 1pm to 4pm.