Dubai Weekend Guide
Photo: @alanaguymer Instagram

The weekend has arrived, and with alfresco dining in its prime, it feels like Dubai is less rushed, there’s a little more breathing room for you to take in the best this city has to offer.

As always, GRAZIA brings you the best ways to relax and unwind while still experiencing all that Dubai has to offer. from serene beach clubs to new and exciting beauty treatments and menus made for savouring every last bite of your meal.

celebrate five years of ROKA

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One of GRAZIA’s favourite restaurants is celebrating half a decade in Dubai. Roka, located in the heart of Business Bay, has become a place where friends get together over great Japanese cuisine, drinks, music, and enjoy the stunning views of the city. The restaurant will be celebrating its five-year milestone with a limited edition menu and drinks during the month of October. Whether you enjoy a signature dish from the robata grill or something new, such as braised beef short rib with pickled daikon and the Umami Highball cocktail, ROKA is inviting you to join them in celebrating five years of flavour, friendship and memories.

Savour Luxury Dining at Milos Dubai

Photo: @milosdubai, Instagram

Now that Dubai’s outdoor season is mercifully back in full swing, Estiatorio Milos reclaims its spot at the top of our al fresco dining list. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by stunning Greek marble, soaring 20-foot ceilings, and an expansive fish bar. And if that doesn’t stop you in your tracks, the breathtaking view of Atlantis The Royal with its dancing fountains surely will. Founded in Montreal in 1979 by Chef Costas Spiliadis, Milos is celebrated as one of the world’s premier Hellenic restaurants. Their hallmark is the impeccable combination of fresh Mediterranean fish flown in daily and understated recipes that allow every ingredient, from the olive oil to the sea salt, stand out. Every detail is considered, especially how your fish is prepared. Pro tip: if sashimi or ceviche aren’t your thing, go for salt-crusted and you’ll get to enjoy the full tableside spectacle of it being expertly filleted. With its family-style menu, authentic Greek flavours, and immersive ambience, Milos offers a true slice of Greece right in the heart of Dubai.

SET THE TONE WITH A leisurely LUNCH

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Located in the heart of DIFC, GAIA Dubai, the popular Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, has introduced a weekend experience for guests to enjoy uninterrupted service on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30pm until late into the evening. GAIA is inspired by the Mediterranean way of life and encourages guests to dine at their own pace, enjoying long, leisurely lunches which transition into longer, more relaxed dinner experiences. Enjoy favourites off the à la carte menu as well as some new seasonal offerings that embody the Greek-Mediterranean cuisine, made fresh, and designed to be shared. GAIA encourages you to slow down this weekend, take your time, savour each moment, and enjoy the simple pleasure of sharing a meal with friends and family.

INDULGE IN THE ART OF SWEETNESS WITH MAISON DEVOILLE 

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Located in the lobby of One & Only One Za’abeel, Maison Devoille is presenting Goûter Parisien. This intimate afternoon tea occasion is inspired by the golden age of Paris in the 1920s. This experience, created by Michelin-starred chef-pâtissier Christophe Devoille, features the food served off bespoke, vintage, hot-air-balloon-style stands. Each course is carefully curated to take guests through savoury sandwiches and delicate French pastries. Each guest will depart with a unique, handcrafted souvenir, a sweet reminder of their Parisian afternoon at Maison Devoille. 

EXPLORE THE RETURN OF ALSERKAL’S FOOD FESTIVAL

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What The Food is back at Alserkal Avenue for its second food festival on October 25 and 26. Chefs, artists, and food creatives are coming together to celebrate culture, creativity, and people coming together for two days of fun. What The Food has a variety of things to see and do at the event; expect one-time-only food stalls from many of Dubai’s top restaurants and cafes, cooking classes, and much more. There will also be movie nights with Cinema Akil in an outdoor setting, paint-your-own-art sessions with Pekoe and thejamjar, and a variety of live music performances by Tarik Omar. 

EXPLORE THE WORLD OF YSL BEAUTY

YSL Beauty has unveiled its newly revamped boutique at Fashion Avenue in The Dubai Mall, showcasing a sleek new design that reflects the brand’s chic Parisian glamour. The newly refurbished space offers an elevated shopping experience, featuring the latest products for makeup, skincare, and fragrance. 

A WORKOUT IN THE CLOUDS

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Abu Dhabi-based FORM Studio is taking fitness to new heights. This Sunday, Micro-Sculpt in the Sky will transform the iconic St. Regis Abu Dhabi helipad into an open-air studio 255 meters above the Arabian Gulf. For one day only, guests will sculpt, strengthen and stretch against the stunning views of Abu Dhabi. The activation will feature 12 sessions led by FORM’s expert instructors, combining the studio’s signature Micro-Sculpt Lagree-inspired classes on the Microformer with Deep Stretch sessions under the sky.

ONE FOR THE BEAUTY LOVERS 

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From 23 October to 2 November 2025, Harvey Nichols Dubai is hosting the biggest beauty event from Al Tayer Insignia at the Mall of the Emirates. This immersive experience, spanning three floors, celebrates self-expression through masterclasses led by experts, personal consultations, and creative activations with brands including YSL Beauty, Armani Beauty, La Mer, and others. Guests can delve into the sensorial installations, enjoy pink-themed treats, and benefit from a luxury gift with purchase when spending Dhs1,500 or more on beauty products.

SOAK UP GOLDEN HOUR 

Photo: @summersaltbeachclub, Instagram

Nestled against a backdrop of the legendary Burj Al Arab, Summersalt Beach Club at Jumeirah Al Naseem returns for the season with a refreshed beachside setting. The new look brings elevated touches to its signature coastal vibe, offering guests the perfect escape for long lunches, golden hour, and relaxing days by the sea. With its pristine beach location, curated menu, and relaxed vibe, Summersalt remains one of Dubai’s most sought-after beach destinations.

AN ALL WHITE WEEKEND AFFAIR

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One of Dubai’s most talked-about social events returns. The White Party at DRIFT Restaurant is taking place this Saturday, October 25 from 12pm. In collaboration with the premium French Champagne house, Bollinger, guests are invited to indulge in an afternoon filled with champagne, refined French cuisine, and elegant seaside dining. Expect live performances, a cabaret show and music that promises an unforgettable evening. Don’t forget to dress in your finest white outfit for a day of sophistication, flavour and celebration amongst friends.