Try something new: 25 brilliant new things to do in Dubai
New dining spots, performances and much more…
A new month brings a list of new things to do in Dubai and we couldn’t be more delighted to share information with our readers on the latest and greatest.
Here are 25 new things to do in Dubai this month.
Visit the dancing bakers at the Kenturah Reserve
View this post on Instagram
A vibrant Australian bakery arrives on a rooftop in Dubai, bringing ingredients and passion from the shores of Palestine. Conceived and operated by The Bearded Bakers, who are known for their pop-ups around Australia, these crafty bakers serve Knafeh that’s so good you’ll be licking your plate. This welcoming group of bakers is also known for their vivacious attitude, frequently jiving away while preparing their sweet Palestinian goods. Expect Knafeh, Arabic ice cream, Moroccan tea and homemade lemonade.
Kunafeh Bakery Dubai, Keturah Reserve, Dubai, Thursday to Sunday, 8pm to 1am. @knafehdubai
Visit the newly opened Dubai Crocodile Park
View this post on Instagram
A new and unique experience has washed up on the shores of Dubai, but beware as it might bite. In Mushrif Park, you can visit some 250 Nile crocodiles at Dubai Crocodile Park. The year-round attraction offers guests the experience of a lifetime, assuming of course one of your life goals is to see crocodiles from various points of view, including close-up and under the water.
The Dubai Crocodile Park, Mushrif Park, open daily from 10am to 10pm, Dhs95 per adult, Dhs75 children aged 3 to 12. Tel: (0)4 266 3700, dubaicrocodilepark.com
Check out Al Barari’s hidden gem, New Earth Café
Spend your days surrounded by palm trees and sunshine at this stunning hidden gem. From smoothie bowls to avo toast, superfood lattes to affirmation juices, New Earth Café is a conscious eatery located in the green heart of Dubai, Al Barari, serving simple, honest food that nurtures and nourishes.
New Earth Café, Al Barari, Dubai. daily, 7am to 6pm. Tel: (0)4 267 0502, @newearth.cafe
Enjoy DIFC’s newest brunch at Josette
DIFC’s newest restaurant is the ultimate Parisian experience and now every Saturday, Josette presents a glamorous brunch with live entertainment, DJ performances, and a delicious sharing-style menu. Guests can expect dishes including escargots, aubergine mille-feuille, and tuna tartare, followed by grilled ribeye with Josette sauce, pan-fried seabass, and a selection of desserts including crème brulée, eclair, and flambé pavlova. Oh and don’t forget to test out the ‘press for Champagne’ button.
Josette Dubai, ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, Every Saturday. Three-hour packages available from 12pm to 5pm. Dhs395 (soft), Dhs550 (house), Dhs750 (champagne). Tel:(0)4 275 2522. @josettedubai
Get cultural at the Abrahamic Family House
View this post on Instagram
This long-awaited beacon of tolerance is worth the trip to Abu Dhabi. It’s a masterpiece of modern architecture, housing places of worship for the three Abrahamic religions. This very special beacon of love, tolerance and peace, located in the Cultural District of Saadiyat Island, is open to the worshipping and visiting public. Entrance is free and we highly recommend booking in advance to secure yourself one of the facility’s expert ‘storytellers’. They’ll help you get the most out of your Abrahamic Family House Experience.
Jacques Chirac Street, Saadiyat Cultural District, free @abrahamicfh
Satisfy your chicken cravings at BonBird
View this post on Instagram
A new sister restaurant to Dubai’s beloved Pickl, BonBird is now serving up clucking good fried chicken in City Walk, right next door to big sister, Pickl. With floor-to-ceiling windows out front, you get panoramic views of the sticky-fingered diners inside. The chicken shop is set out in minimalistic chic — white tile and red accents to celebrate the BonBird emblematic branding. It truly is all about the chicken for them. Expect, chicken tenders, chicken on the bone, burgers and a spicy chicken melt sandwich, alongside fries, mac and cheese and much more. If your feeling particularly boujie, why not top your fried chicken with caviar?
BonBird, City Walk, now open daily 11am to 2am. @bonbird.uae
Test out your padel skills on a new floating court
With padel taking the world by storm, we have seen many venues dedicated to this fast-growing sport pop up across the city. Adding a classic Dubai twist, you and your besties can now have your weekly padel match on a floating court in JLT. Padelx is open from 6am to 11pm, with two courts available with prices starting from Dhs200 an hour.
Padelx, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Cluster I, Dubai, prices from Dhs200 (per hour), open daily from 6am to 11pm, bookings required. Tel: (0)58 894 4631.. @padelx_official
Check out Elmarsa Galleries newest exhibition
Created by Tunisian modernist Aly Ben Salem, A Perfect World illustrates pivotal moments in North African history, and is currently running at Elmarsa Gallery in Alserkal Avenue. Aly Ben Salem is one of the first generations of artists to emerge out of Tunisia as the country struggles for independence from French colonial rule. At first glance Ben Salem’s work seems to be in stark contrast with his North African contemporaries, however, upon further inspection, their work shares a portrayal of a plural Maghrebi identity, highlighting their inherent history, memory, identity, cultural heritage, and authenticity. This exhibition will be running until Saturday, May 20.
Elmarsa Gallery, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, Tues to Sat 10am to 7pm, Sun and Mon closed, Tel: (0)4 341 5806, galerielmarsa.com
Sip on after-work drinks at Above Eleven
A Bangkok institution since 2012, Above Eleven, serves a menu of fine Japanese Peruvian fusion flavours, colourful cocktails and a top array of live tunes that range from salsa nights to a rotation of live DJs. The industrial-chic interior comes with exposed brickwork and large windows that will make the most of the stunning skyline views. Huge trees, dim lighting, and pops of teal and ruby are sure to pack Above Eleven with Instagrammable moments. The website also promises key features such as a garden maze in the entrance as well as a large outdoor terrace, so we reckon this might just be our new favourite sundowner spot in the winter months.
Above Eleven, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, The Palm open daily 4pm to 2am. Tel: (0)4 666 1420 @aboveelevendubai
Take a tropical staycation at JA Palm Tree Court
With many locations dotted around the UAE, Maldives and Seychelles, JA Hotels and Resorts is known for its welcoming and friendly aura. Its Jebel Ali location has recently seen some changes, with the highly anticipated new villas and elevated amenities of Palm Tree Court. Its expansive grounds feature three different hotel venues, dining options, and a variety of activities ranging from water sports, horse riding, golf and a kid’s water park, cementing this location as an ultimate staycation destination.
JA Palm Tree Court, JA The Resort, Exit 13, Sheikh Zayed Road, Mina Jebel Ali, Dubai, Tel: (0)4 814 5555, jaresortshotels.com
Get creative at a new female-focused co-working space
Dubai now has a beautiful female focused co-working space, The Bureau. This light and airy co-working space is located in the heart of Dubai’s Gold & Diamond Park. The concept is co-founded by Dubai-born and raised sisters, Nikita and Rhea Patel, who shared the vision of creating a cosy, welcoming and supportive space. The Bureau offers a modern and light space with a co-working lounge, as well as private offices, meeting rooms, as well as a podcast studio and phone booth. This one-stop shop also incorporates a fitness studio called NAÕ, a vanity room complete with showers, and even a pumping room for new mothers. It’s important to stay fueled and hydrated, which is made easy thanks to an on-site Jones The Grocer, where you can stock up on coffee, snacks and wholesome meals.
The Bureau, Building 6, Gold & Diamond Park, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (0)54 583 3397, @thebureauae
Wine and dine at La Mar at Atlantis the Royal
Since Atlantis The Royal transcended onto the shores of The Palm’s East Crescent, an array of fine-dining restaurants have come with it, including the breathtaking La Mar. Just around the corner from the grand foyer of Atlantis The Royal, La Mar’s floating wooden staircase will transport you to this chic venue, adorned with dark stone and wooden features. Its sultry interior is complemented by dangling glass light fixtures, a seafood bar layered with sparkling ice, and an illuminated bar that lies along the back of the restaurant.
La Mar, Mezzanine level, Atlantis The Royal, daily 6pm to 11pm. Tel:(0)4 426 0000. @lamardubai
Take a day trip to Hatta and drink coffee at Under the Shade
View this post on Instagram
Nestled between the palms, this serene spot serves as a small sanctuary located in Hatta’s Heritage Village. This rustic venue’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural elements, transporting all coffee lovers to their own secret oasis. Guests can sip on a heartwarming coffee whilst basking in the sounds of chirping birds and trickling water. Bliss.
Under The Shade Coffee, Hatta Heritage Village, Dubai, 10am to 10pm daily, @uts.ae
Try out Jumeirah’s newest Mexican eatery, Lila Taqueria
This hidden gem is a cosy home-grown taqueria serving up the finest flavours from Mexico. The brains behind this project is Chef Shaw, a warm and passionate woman who is dedicated to embodying sustainability and community in her venue. This homegrown spot only opened two months ago but has already caused a stir among Dubai foodies, making it one of the hottest new neighbourhood hangouts. Lila Taqueria utilises traditional cooking methods and authentic wood-fired ovens to create incredible flavours – sourcing all ingredients locally and ethically. All are welcome at Lila’s including your furry friends.
Lila Wood-fired Taqueria, 786 Jumeirah St, Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah 3, Dubai, Tues to Sun 9am to 10pm, Mon closed, Tel: (0055 560 1778, lilataqueira.com
Try a out new ladies’ deals at the Beach by Sho Cho
View this post on Instagram
The beloved social spot, Sho Cho, located in the Dubai Marine Beach Resort, has upgraded its beachside experience. Experience this picturesque location on their Wednesday ladies’ day, which invites all ladies from 11am to 5pm, with a day full of sun and a gorgeous lunch. Expect, edamame, prawn spring rolls, seaweed salad, teriyaki grilled chicken and more. Access to the beach with soft drinks is Dhs185, with house drinks Dhs250 and with sparkling Dhs275.
Keep the party going with Sho Cho’s ladies’ night, which includes unlimited drinks paired with a set menu from 7pm to 11pm, complete with a DJ from 9pm. This will cost Dhs155.
The Beach by Sho Cho, Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Jumeirah Beach Rd, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, Wed 11am to 5pm, beach access and lunch, Dhs185 soft, Dhs250 house, Dhs275 sparkling. Ladies night Wed 5pm to 11pm, Dhs155 with unlimited drinks and set menu. Tel: (0)50 798 1869, sho-cho.com
Master the art of fermentation with Tabchilli
View this post on Instagram
Tabchilli is a homegrown gem located in Dar Wasl mall run by Maher, who is greatly passionate about all things spicy and fermented. It offers an array of gorgeous fermented products as well as weekly workshops. In the two-hour workshop, guests will be guided through the fermentation process before getting down to business, making their own kimchi and chilli paste to take home. If you’re an avid spice lover or just have a hankering for fermented foods, then you need to make your way down to this workshop, priced at Dhs400 per person.
Tabchilli, Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl, Dubai, Mon to Sat 6pm to 10pm, Sun 9.30am to 12pm and 6pm to 10pm. Tel: (0)58 584 3463, tabchilli.com
Float 300 metres above the Palm on The Dubai Balloon
Thrill-seekers can now view the Palm and the Arabian Gulf from 300 meters above the ground with this soaring new attraction. This unique aviation experience is located in Atlantis Aquaventure, and offers guests the opportunity to experience a 10-minute balloon experience. Lifting riders into the air via a helium-inflated tethered balloon, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views out across the city. For adults, it’s Dhs175 for a regular pass or Dhs75 for children. There’s also a fast pass ticket for priority boarding, as well as a complimentary beverage in The Dubai Balloon lounge, priced at Dhs275 for adults and Dhs125 for children.
The Dubai Balloon, Aquaventure, Atlantis, The Palm, Mon to Thur 9am to 11pm, Fri to Sun 9am to midnight. thedubaiballoon.com / @thedubaiballoon
Experience Omakase at Clap
New to Clap’s impressive culinary repertoire, omakase-style dining is now on offer at this uber-chic DIFC venue. Offering specially crafted dishes utilising ingredients from the sea and those that are in season, Clap’s omakase is full of exquisite surprises. Guests can expect textures such as oysters, caviar, yuzu truffle, foie gras and more. Prices start at Dhs750, with the premium omakase costing Dhs1,150. Wine pairings cost an additional Dhs650 to Dhs1,650 depending on each guest’s preference. Prepared to be wowed by the constant stream of changing dishes.
Clap, DIFC Gate Village, Trade Centre, Dubai, Dhs750 regular omakase, Dhs1,150 premium, wine pairing Dhs650/Dhs950/Dhs1,650. Tel: (0)4 569 3820, claprestaurant.com
Enjoy a staycation at a new address
Nested on the top end of Palm West Beach is the first NH Collection hotel to open its doors in the UAE. It comes complete with 227 hotel rooms and suites and 306 serviced apartments, and it’s set to be a gateway to the myriad bars and restaurants at Palm West Beach, nearby Nakheel Mall, and the world’s largest dancing fountains at The Pointe. This chic and vibrant two-tower complex is home to five gorgeous restaurants serving everything from fine dining to light bites. NH Collection the Palm’s two towers are joined at the top with a 45-meter rooftop infinity pool. Elsewhere, leisure facilities include a fitness centre, a spa, a kids club and more. One of the hotel’s major selling points is its unmatched views, which stretch across the iconic skyline of JBR, Bluewaters, Palm fronds and the entirety of West Beach.
NH Collection, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, Doubles from Dhs700. Tel: (0)4 549 7777, world.nh-hotels.com
Hit up Dubai’s most sought after drive-thru
Cult Saudi fried chicken brand, Al Baik, has opened its very first drive-thru restaurant in the UAE. The drive-thru, which is now open for soft launch, is located at the Eppco petrol station in Al Rashidiya, Dubai. The new spot will feature a limited items menu including some of the brand’s signature items. Crowd favourites include spicy fried chicken, shrimp, and falafel. What’s more? Cars won’t need to queue up to order as customers will be able to order and pay via an app.
Al Baik, Eppco petrol station, Al Rashidiya, Dubai. albaik.com
Top up your tan at gorgeous Verde Beach
We’re clinging on to the final few weeks of beach club season. And if you’re looking for a sizzling new spot to try, Verde Beach needs to go straight to the top of your list. Verde Beach bottles up chic Riviera glamour and showers it over a luxurious Mediterranean beach club and restaurant. A hedonistic playground where guests can dine, drink, dance and soak up the festive ambience, Verde Beach is now open daily for dreamy days on the sand. Whether a leisurely lunch in the restaurant or a day of tanning on the beach, Verde Beach is set to be the place to see and be seen this season.
Verde Beach Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, daily 10am to 7pm beach, daily 12pm to 5.30pm and 8pm to 1am restaurant. Tel: (0)4 228 5053. @verdebeachdubai
Party at Aura Skypools new Friday night brunch
This daytime sanctuary is now adding a weekly night brunch to its roster. Well-versed with the serene and understated vibe during the day, Aura completely transforms with sunset, tinted with pops of purple-hued neon lights. Guests will receive a selection of six pan Asian sharing dishes, a dessert per person, as well as three hours of free-flowing selected cocktails, house beverages and prosecco. This brunch runs from 8pm to 11pm, costing Dhs480 for three hours of free-flowing drinks.
Aura Skypool Lounge, 50th Floor, Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Friday Night Brunch, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs480 three hours of free-flow, plus Dhs240 for champagne. Tel: (0)4 566 2121. auraskyp
Meet the latest addition to the Museum of the Future
View this post on Instagram
The Museum of the Future has a futuristic new addition. Say hello to Robodog, the latest member of the expanding robot family. This new robotic four-legged friend joins the museum’s existing collection of advanced technology and robots, alongside the AI-powered humanoid robot Bob, the robot barista, a flying penguin, flying jellyfish and much more. This robotic pet is an advanced robot which uses machine learning to manoeuvre its surroundings with incredible ease and mobility. It embodies some of the most cutting-edge technology and AI systems that are currently available with 3D vision, 360-degree perception and movement through the use of 17 joints.
Museum of the Future, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Trade Centre 2, Dubai, 10am to 7.30pm daily, Tel: 800 2071, museumofthefuture.ae/en
Learn to make picture-perfect dumplings with Streetery Food Hall
View this post on Instagram
Ever wondered how Streetery manages to nail their signature wontons every time? Well, now you can learn all their top tips and secrets every Sunday from 3pm, with a hands-on wonton workshop. Streetery’s mastermind chefs guide you through how to make the filling, the wonton dough as well as its delicious sauces. At the end of the class, all worker bees will be able to enjoy their wontons alongside a drink of choice, for just Dhs65.
Streetery Food Hall, JLT, Cluster D, every Sunday 3pm onwards, Dhs55, Tel: (0)4 587 3373, streeteryfoodhall.com
Try out Fouquet’s breakfast dishes
It’s already one of the capital’s top restaurants and now you can officially say Bonjour to the French fine dining institution: Fouquet’s Dubai. The new Fouquet’s restaurant is home to a pâtisserie, a bar, the iconic brasserie, private lounges, and a rooftop boasting stunning views of Burj Khalifa and Opera District. From 8am to 12pm daily, guests can tuck into a wide variety of French breakfast dishes including omelettes, French toast, pastries, eggs, and more.
Fouquet’s Dubai, Burj Plaza, Downtown Dubai. Daily 8am to 2am. @fouquets.dubai
Images: Social and supplied
