Fabulous news: it’s the weekend – and a long one at that. If you’re casting your eye around for something to do, look no further. Whether it’s brand-new beach clubs, free yoga or patriotic feasts, we’ve got you covered.
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What to do if you’re not going away this long weekend
Wednesday 29
Go for a stroll at City Walk
City Walk’s National Day celebrations have an international mix, with 16 countries represented over the weekend. Expect live performances, kids’ workshops, live painting, and a roaming parade. Sounds pretty festive to us.
National Day at City Walk, November 29 to December 4, 4pm to 10pm. Free. citywalk.ae.
Glow in the dark
In a city full of ‘gram worthy spots, Dubai Garden Glow still stands out. If light installations and a laser show (plus an ice park) sound like a good time, this is your spot. You’ll find animal sculptures as well, and it’s open daily.
Dubai Garden Glow, Zabeel Park Two. Dhs60 per person, extra Dhs40 for entry to ice park, 4pm to 12am daily. facebook.com/dubaimunicipality.
Thursday 30
Check out a just-opened beach club
Because long weekends are made for lazing by the pool, right? This new launch, located at the One & Only Royal Mirage, promises plenty of private beachfront, an infinity pool, and a sophisticated Provençal menu (you even get a towel, water, after-sun and a fruit platter included in the price of pool access too).
Drift, One & Only Royal Mirage, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai, 10.30am to 7pm daily. Weekdays from Dhs250 per person, weekends from Dhs300 per person. Tel: (04) 315 2200. oneandonlyresorts.com.
Tuck into some local delicacies
To celebrate National Day, the St. Regis Dubai is putting on a themed outdoor market (so you can make a head-start on your Christmas shopping this weekend). There’ll be UAE-inspired attractions, live entertainment, and Emirati cuisine, as well as a kids’ play area. Sound like a family-friendly way to spend an evening.
The St Regis Garden Dubai, Al Habtoor City, Wednesdays November 29 to Saturday December 2, free entry, 6pm to 8pm. stregisdubai.com.
Friday 1
Get up and at ’em early
Sure, a long weekend is usually full of eating and drinking too much—but you’ll feel a bit better about it after some early-morning sun salutations. Dubai’s Marina Mall is hosting free yoga classes on Fridays throughout winter, with Lululemon experts hosting the sessions. There’s no need to register either—just rock up on the day.
Dubai Marina Mall promenade, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 8.30am on Fridays throughout winter, mats provided, free. Tel: (04) 436 1020. dubaimarinamall.com.
Enjoy a Mexican evening brunch
Look, the concept of a brunch that’s actually dinner is a little confusing, but go with it. This is a deal. Downtown favourite Loca are putting on a special evening brunch this Friday to help your long weekend along. From 6.30pm to 8.30pm, the margaritas will flow freely and more importantly, so will the guacamole. There’ll be a live band and DJ on hand, too.
Evening brunch at Loca, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai. Dhs270 per person, margaritas and house spirits included. Tel: (04) 449 4455. locauae.com.
Pamper yourself for less
Fancy treating yourself to a relaxing facial over the break? Well, you’ll get more beauty-time for your buck with Aethetics International’s four new SkinCeuticals options—because if you book one over National Day weekend, you’ll get a second facial absolutely free (you just have to claim it before December 31). Prices start from Dhs700, and we’re eyeing up the antioxidant option to give our skin a pick-me-up in time for party season…
Aesthetics International, Villa 1049c, intersection of Al Wasl Road and Al Thanya Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, Saturdays to Wednesdays 9am to 9pm, Thursdays 9am to 6pm. Tel: (04) 384 5600. aesthetics.ae.
Saturday 2
Celebrate National Day with some regional style
To mark the occasion, Robinsons department store is hosting a unique trunk show to bring together the talents of local and regional designers. Showcasing ready-to-wear abayas, jewellery and accessories, this offers an ideal opportunity to support local style in a one-stop shop.
Robinsons, Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 4pm to 5pm. Tel: 800 67 667. robinsons.me.
Spend an afternoon grazing
Blue Orange at the Westin Mina Seyahi are putting on a special National Day brunch this Saturday, and it looks to be a goodie. They’re promising live cooking stations, entertainment, and even a juggler and bouncy castle. Enjoy yourselves.
National Day brunch at Blue Orange, Westin Mina Seyahi. 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Dhs249 with soft beverages, Dhs399 with house beverages and sparkling. Kids under 12 eat free. Tel: (04) 511 7373. westinminaseyahi.com.
Spot a firework or two
We’ve covered this at more length elsewhere, but the fact is, it’s not National Day if you don’t see some fireworks. There are displays going off around the city, so get some mates together and head down. Whether it’s JBR or the Burj, you’re guaranteed at least one ooh or aah.
Check out our roundup of the top five spots to see the fireworks here.
Images: Supplied
