The weekend is finally here, and we’re going to be making the most of it with French feasts, pool parties and free ice-creams.

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Thursday 13

Book a luxury staycation

Dubai Ranked Among The Top 5 Places To Live

Got a special occasion coming up? Well now might be the time to take advantage of the Burj al Arab’s newly-launched offer, which gives a 25 per cent discount on stays for UAE residents. The discount will be applied on the best available rate at the time of booking, and includes free breakfast, access to the hotel’s terrace with its restaurant, pools and beach area, and complimentary nibbles. Sure, even with 25 per cent off it’s still a treat (as you’d expect from a seven-star hotel), but sometimes you just need to spoil yourself, right?

Burj al Arab, Jumeira Road, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai. Offer available until the end of 2017. Tel: (04) 301 7777. jumeirah.com.

Grab a bite from around the globe

hangry hangar

It was a hit last year, and now the Hangry Hangar’s back for another summer in Al Quoz. Bringing together eight street food pop-ups under one roof, you’ll be able to choose from global dishes including tacos, pulled lamb sliders and wood-fired pizza. There’ll also be live music, stand-up comedy nights, theatre acts, kids activities and fitness sessions, so keep checking the schedule throughout the summer.

Hangry Hanger, Warehouse Four, just off Sheikh Zayed Road, open daily until September 2. Open 10am to 12am weekdays, 8am to 12am weekends. facebook.com/hangryhangar

Friday 14

Celebrate Bastille Day with a French feast

Bistrot Bagatelle

Slip on something red, white or blue to celebrate the European country’s national day with this French eatery. Chow down on delicacies including beef tartare, escargots (yes, that’s snails), pan-seared sea bass and filet mignon from the a la carte menu, and then stick around for a Parisian-worthy party (think live DJs and dancing).

Bistrot Bagatelle, Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 8pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 354 5035. bagatelledubai.com.

Pick up some local trinkets

arte market

We’ve got some great artisans right here in the UAE, and this indoor day market offers the perfect opportunity to browse wares from a whole host of them. From textiles and interior pieces to toys and jewellery, pick up something unique for your loved ones’ next birthday.

ARTE The Makers’ Market, Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10am to 6pm. Free entry. Click here for more information.

Saturday 15

Claim a free ice-cream

fuzziwigs ice cream

To celebrate National Ice Cream Day (on July 16, FYI) Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory are giving away free creamy-topped cones for a whopping three days straight. Just head down to either of their locations at The Beach or Riverland between 3pm and 5pm, and you’ll score a complimentary FuzziCone – but if you want to add any toppings, they need to be paid for. Enjoy!

Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory, The Beach opposite JBR and Riverland, Dubai Parks and Resorts. Offer on between July 14 and 16 between 3pm and 5pm. Tel: 04 258 5824. 

Chill out at a new pool party

fairmont dubai

We’re not venturing out into the midday heat for a few more months – but sinking into a pool in the late afternoon sounds more than bearable. That’s what Fairmont Dubai is offering with their new summer pool party, which takes place as the sun begins to head towards the horizon. From 5pm to 10pm, you can kick back in the hotel’s rooftop pool as DJs set the mood with a few beats. There’ll also be food and table service, plus a long list of thirst-quenching slushies.

Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Liquid Nation takes place every Saturday from 5pm to 10pm. Free for ladies, included unlimited slushy beverages, Dhs100 for men, includes one slushy beverage. Tel: (04) 311 8316. fairmont.com/dubai.

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