10 fabulous things to do in Dubai this weekend

Your ultimate weekend guide in Dubai, May 2 to May 4, 2025

Transport yourself to Greece

 

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Experience Ode to Greece at Shimmers, the serene beachfront restaurant at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, with a special culinary collaboration running until May 14. In a refined take on the traditional four-hands format, Shimmers’ Head Chef Emanuele de Leo joins forces with Michelin-starred Chef Thanos Feskos for a two-week celebration of Greek cuisine, paying tribute to its rustic island roots and modern culinary evolution. The chefs present a five-course tasting menu served sharing-style, featuring standout dishes such as Sardines Toast with spicy tomato salsa, Patagogkies with red prawn and caviar, Octopus Tartelette with fava bean spread, and Lamb Shank with Greek chimichurri. Priced at Dhs550 per person, each dish is paired with a story, offering an immersive dining experience that blends heritage and a shared passion for Greek flavours.

 For more information visit @shimmersdubai

Unlock the weekend with a password and a pour

For the ultimate hidden experience, speakeasies are the best way to get to know any city. What started during the ‘Prohibition Era’ has gone on to become a modern-day refined concept today, that has now gained popularity in different parts of the world. After taking over basements, warehouses and other hidden spaces in the 1920s in New York, speakeasy bars became a hallmark for niche cocktails and delectable delights. What first needed a password to enter is now open to the public, however, it’s only if you know you know. From the LITT at Kira to GABA, Dubai has the newest speakeasies in town.

For more information read the full guide here. 

Book a relaxing staycation

Visit the newly opened art gallery

From London’s buzzing art scene to the cultural heart of Dubai, Yield Gallery has officially arrived in the Middle East. Nestled in the creative district of One Central at Dubai World Trade Centre, the boutique-style space introduces the region to a curated mix of contemporary icons like Banksy, Warhol, Damien Hirst, and Richard Hambleton, alongside rising talents such as Harland Miller and Fern. Founded by esteemed art collector David Izzard, Yield Gallery is celebrated for merging storytelling with investment-grade works. Its intimate 100 sq ft Dubai space is designed to spark dialogue and discovery, offering collectors access to museum-quality pieces in a refined setting. With Creative Director Jon Sullivan’s expert curation and the gallery’s global reach, this new outpost is a must-visit for those seeking depth, value, and vision in contemporary art. Open Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm. Saturday and Sunday by appointment only.

For more information visit @yield_gallery

Experience Dubai’s beautiful skyline with dinner

Perched on the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place, Bar des Prés by acclaimed Chef Cyril Lignac brings a refined fusion of French flair and bold Japanese flavours to DIFC. With sweeping city views, a Paris-meets-Tokyo aesthetic by Lázaro Rosa-Violán, and an interactive sushi counter, the venue blends elegance with energy. Signature dishes like the Crispy Rice Trio, Crunchy Crab Galette, and Charred A4 Wagyu sit alongside standout desserts such as the Vanilla Mille-feuille and towering Profiteroles. Whether for business lunches, stylish dinners, or cocktails to a nightly DJ set, Bar des Prés offers a sophisticated dining experience elevated by Lignac’s culinary mastery.

Put your Mexican hat on

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo as Gitano Dubai transforms into a lush jungle escape from May 2 to 4, bringing the soulful spirit of Mexico to the shores of Jumeirah. In collaboration with agave experts Quiote, the weekend features an exclusive mezcal tasting experience at the Gitano Beach Shack, with a curated selection of Amarás-infused cocktails and signature serves. The energy builds across three days with sets by Klo & Parvane, Chico Serio, Diamond Setter, and Morgan Dope, alongside the vibrant sounds of a live mariachi band. With bold flavours, rhythmic beats, and a laid-back tropical vibe, the celebration brings Latin culture to life – it’s one you won’t want to miss.

For more information visit @gitano.dubai

Brunch it up

We all deserve a MICHELIN-approved brunch and CÉ LA VI is definitely one to try this weekend. Indulge in exquisite food, savour exceptional drinks, and create delightful moments filled with unforgettable memories. No need to travel east—we will bring the vibrant South Asian flavours straight to you! Indulge in a truly exceptional culinary experience with our exquisite brunch menu, featuring signature dishes crafted to tantalize your taste buds, including our creamy Burrata Salad, flavourful Sushi Rice Risotto, and the irresistibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth black cod. Savour each bite while taking in panoramic views of the stunning Dubai skyline and the iconic Burj Khalifa at Address Sky Views. Let the soulful tunes of our live performer set the mood, and as the day unfolds, groove to the beats of our resident DJ, creating unforgettable moments with friends and loved ones. The soft brunch is priced at Dhs390, the house brunch at Dhs490, the bubbles brunch at Dhs690 and the rosé bubbles brunch at Dhs790.

For more information visit @celavidubai

Savour Nikkei cuisine

NOÉPE at Park Hyatt Dubai is a serene, Hamptons-inspired waterfront dining destination overlooking the Dubai Creek Marina. Designed to evoke the charm of a Cape Cod yacht club, the space features whitewashed wood, soft coastal hues, and panoramic views of the water. The menu blends New England and Nikkei influences under the direction of Chef Sydney Stranger, Director of Culinary at Park Hyatt Resort, with standout dishes like Black Ceviche, Miso Glazed Cod, and Lobster & Gruyère Cigarellos, paired with inventive cocktails such as the Drunk Monkey. A go-to for sunset drinks and chic gatherings, NOÉPE also hosts lively weekly events including Sunset Soirée and Ladies’ Night, making it one of Dubai’s most stylish open-air spots for laid-back luxury.

For more information visit @noepedxb

Try this new restaurant

Dubai has now open a refined Japanese restaurant and bar Kiyoshi located at Vida Creek Harbour Hotel and marking Fuse Holding’s first homegrown concept. Blending artisanal Japanese craftsmanship with modern elegance, Kiyoshi is helmed by acclaimed Chef Howard Ko, who brings a fresh, innovative touch to traditional Japanese cuisine with dishes like sushi, seafood, kushiyaki, wagyu tenderloin, and short ribs. The venue features thoughtfully designed interiors with hand-painted cherry blossoms and laser-enhanced art, while its outdoor terrace offers serene views of the Creek and Dubai skyline. More than just a restaurant, Kiyoshi is poised to become a lifestyle destination for sunset drinks, elevated dining, and cosmopolitan energy.

For more information visit @kiyoshidubai

Order a bespoke cake

 

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Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @rayane.kf