The summer season in Dubai calls for a slow pace. With drawn-out meetings, empty calendars and the infamous Dubai heat setting the tone for the work week. Luckily, the city’s itinerary is constantly packed with bustling activities for you to fill up your social calendars. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant night out, or a slow, unhurried coffee, we’ve got you covered.

In this edition of GRAZIA’s weekend guide, we bring you everything it is that you need to know to stay fully booked. From Hanami Nights at Shanghai Me to Summer Restaurant Week, here’s our guide to a weekend in Dubai from August 6 to August 8.

Hanami Nights at Shanghai Me

The end of the work week calls for a celebration – and there’s no better way to do so than at the city’s finest dining spot. Shanghai Me has introduced Hanami Nights – a flavourful experience that will have guests returning for a new weekly ritual. The dining endeavour brings pan-Asian cuisine in its most luxurious form for just Dhs.258. With an enticing menu that features wagyu beef, flavourful gyozas and a sweet matcha tiramisu to top it off. If you’re looking for a chic dining spot – this address has to be on your list of places to go this weekend.

Enjoy the Lively ambience at The Loop

Enjoy breathtaking canal views with a flavourful cocktail at the city’s golden hour with The Loop. The spot offers exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, alongside a luxurious ambience of courtesy of their refined, modern interiors. Settle into the weekend mood with a vibrant atmosphere alongside a menu of well-crafted signature dishes. Living up to its name, the spot provides a new ritual that you can return to repeatedly. Courtesy of a lively allure that will have you planning your next visit the minute you leave.

A taste of old Hong Kong at Yu & Mi

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Yù & Mì takes you on an elevated culinary journey that’s framed by panoramic views, with contemporary interiors that give ode to Hong Kong in the 1960s, and a balance of a moody yet bold atmosphere. This weekend, enjoy an intimate setting with servings of boldly spiced Cantonese and Sichuan dishes inspired by the underground supper clubs of old Hong Kong. For those looking to experience a culinary journey that will take you back in time – this restaurant is for you.

A community for chess lovers

Often, the constant demands of the work week result in us neglecting what truly matters – our community and respective hobbies. Now, Win Chess Club is offering a safe space for chess lovers looking to bond over a competitive game – or for those looking to meet new people and create connections. Every Saturday, from 11am-2pm, the chess club opens its doors to players of all levels. If you’re looking for a routine escape every weekend, spend your mornings bonding over a fun game of the cult classic board game with some new faces.

enjoy a friendly game at padel edition

A dynamic ritual for sports enthusiasts – the Padel Edition is a space for both casual players and serious athletes alike. Enjoy an unparalleled padel experience with the sports club’s After Serve programme every Saturday. Your next weekend outing comes with a friendly game, and a matcha run run at their cafe Baristro. Sometimes, the best bonding experience comes with an active session where conversations pause and you sit on the sidelines. If you’re looking for a new weekend ritual, enjoy a Saturday afternoons catch up over an enjoyable game of padel.

set the tone for the weekend with breakfast at the Guild

Enjoy a cosy, unhurried breakfast as Dubai’s very own homegrown brasserie The Guild. Located in the heart of DIFC, the restaurant comes with an alluring breakfast each Saturday from 8:00am to 11:30am with a discount of 50 per cent. Start the weekend off with the spot’s signature wood-fried eggs, house-made granola and delicious pastries. If you’re looking for a place to catch up with your friends over a leisurely breakfast this weekend – this address has to be on your list.

A transformative workout routine at Kure Pilates

Sometimes, it can be hard to schedule in a workout between workdays where drawn-out meetings and a lengthy commute takes the spotlight. This weekend, get in touch with an elevated workout routine at Kure Pilates – where transformation takes the centre stage. The studio offers high-energy reformer pilates sessions as well as an array of wellness routines, for those who need more than just a quick workout. Including an iced cold plunge and steam shower with their Hydro Suite for Dhs.100.  Plus, it comes with the allure of a post-pilates matcha run courtesy of their very own Kure’d Cafe.

An elevated self-care ritual at Snob Salon

Self-care never goes out of style – especially with Snob Salon. This weekend, get back in touch with a much-needed self-care ritual and spoil yourself after the week’s lengthy demands. The spa offers treatments that cater to those looking for a low-maintenance routine to stay high-maintenance. Whether you’re looking for a simple touch-up, an elevated manicure or a gentle scrub from their Moroccan Hammam. This address is the perfect addition for those looking to hit pause by treating themselves over the weekend.

A Taste of Italy’s Culinary Spirit

Enjoy a taste of Italy’s culinary hot spots without the price of a plane ticket at Gloria Osteria. This weekend, experience the flavours of Italy through the restaurant’s Il Giro D’Italia menu – a Saturday lunch series celebrating the country’s most beloved culinary regions. From Sicilia and Sardinia to Campania, Lazio, Toscana and Emilia-Romagna, each month introduces a limited-edition menu inspired by two regions, showcasing their distinctive traditions and rich culinary heritage. Each dish captures Italy’s renowned culinary spirit, so you can enjoy authentic recipes with a glamorous spirit.