The weekend is nearly here, and this one is going to be extra sweet with the knowledge that we’re heading into a short week. So, let’s make the most of it – from hotly-anticipated movie releases to pool parties and dining deals, here’s your weekly dose of inspiration.

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Thursday August 16

Go see your new favourite movie

Crazy Rich Asians, the film adaptation of Kevin Kwan’s hilarious debut novel, hits big screens across the UAE today. The story follows New Yorker Rachel Chu as she accompanies her boyfriend, Nick Young, to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore. What Rachel doesn’t know is that Nick comes from one of the country’s wealthiest families – making him one of the most sought-after bachelors. You don’t want to miss it.

Crazy Rich Asians, 121 minutes, in UAE cinemas from August 16. crazyrichasiansmovie.com

Hit up a brand new night-time pool party

Dig out your favourite swimsuit – Dubai Marina hotspot Barasti Beach is launching a new pool party this evening, and there are some great deals for ladies. From 8pm to 11pm, you’ll enjoy unlimited wine, bubbly and beer for Dhs100. Sounds like the perfect way to cool off in this sticky summer heat…

Barasti Beach, The Westin Mina Seyahi, Thursdays, 8pm to 11pm, Dhs100. Tel: 04 399 3333. barastibeach.com

Friday August 17

See Morissette live in Dubai

Filipino superstar Morissette is in Dubai for a one-night-only concert at Dubai World Trade Centre. Dubbed the Mariah Carey of Asia, the singer is expected to perform hits from her albums Akin Ka Na Lang and Ikaw Ay Ako. She’ll be joined by special guest Sam Concepcion, a Filipino singer who opened one of Taylor Swift’s concerts.

Morissette is Made Live in Dubai, Zabeel Hall 2, Dubai World Trade Centre, August 17, 7pm, tickets from Dhs250. dubai.platinumlist.net

Have a Japanese feast

The very stylish Morimoto Dubai in the Renaissance Downtown Hotel has launched a special new teppanyaki experience, Shoka Teppanyaki, for summer. For Dhs450 per person, you’ll enjoy eight courses prepared by skilled Japanese chefs, including chilled pudding with soy bean and Japanese sea urchin, wagyu tataki with scallion salsa and daikon, and tenshino-ebi with garlic xo sauce.

Morimoto Dubai, Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Downtown Dubai, Sat to Wed 7pm to 1am, Thurs & Fri 7pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 512 5577. morimotodubai.com

Saturday August 18

Check out an Instagrammable new cafe

How cute is this place? Kava & Chai has just opened at Al Seef, the cultural district on the banks of Dubai Creek. The homegrown coffeehouse features a carefully curated menu of tea and coffee, with a focus on traditional family recipes and flavours. They’re also committed to sustainability – from packaging to uniforms, everything is sourced responsibly, made from renewable materials and recycled efficiently. We love coffee with a conscience.

Kava & Chai, Al Seef, Bur Dubai, Sun to Thurs 9am to 12am, Fri & Sat 9am to 1am. Tel: (06) 507 0361. kavaandchai.com

Catch a free movie

The wonderful people at Cinema Akil are screening a brilliant documentary film this evening. Dream, Girl premiered at the White House in May 2016, and showcases the stories of inspiring and ambitious female entrepreneurs. The documentary, which was fully funded by Kickstarter, was produced by an all-female crew.

Cinema Akil, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Saturday 7pm, free. cinemaakil.com

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Main image: Crazy Rich Asians