A Christmas brunch is coming to Abu Dhabi this June (yes, really)
Think you have to wait until December for roast turkey, stuffing and a side of Mariah Carey? Think again. Abu Dhabi's Coopers is throwing the calendar out the window with its gloriously unhinged – and undeniably brilliant – Alternative X-Mas Brunch, happening not once but twice this June.
Mark your diaries for June 21 and 22, when Santa swaps snow for sand dunes and your favourite festive beats get a sunny remix. Yes, it's Christmas. Yes, it's summer. And yes, there will be gravy.
This tongue-in-cheek mid-year celebration promises all the seasonal trimmings: a loaded buffet of classic Christmas dishes, a soundtrack of absolute bangers courtesy of DJ Brent Anthony and a live set from the lads of IB Boys.
Santa himself is rumoured to be making a VIP cameo – and he's clearly traded in his sleigh for something with air-con.
Dig out your novelty jumpers (or maybe just your best red tank top), because festive dress is highly encouraged. Whether you're in it for the turkey or just the chaos of singing Jingle Bells in 40°C heat, this is your chance to relive the magic of December – minus the jet lag and winter coats.
Bookings are filling up fast and with packages starting from Dhs249 for house beverages and Dhs379 for the premium experience, you'll want to lock in your spot faster than you can say 'Ho, ho, how is this actually happening?'
Dhs249 (soft drinks), Dhs379 (premium beverages). June 21-22, Cooper's, Park Rotana.
@coopersabudhabi.
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What's On
a day ago
- What's On
16 of the best afternoon teas in Dubai in 2025
Sweet and savoury treats, tea prepared by certified sommeliers, music from a grand piano, this is what you can expect from the afternoon tea at The Lana. You will be able to tuck into sandwiches such as smoked Scottish salmon, truffle egg, scones with Devon clotted cream, laminated coffee brioche, and more. With temperatures rising, you can pair your meal with refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonades prepared tableside. To top off your experience, you will get to enjoy stunning views of Downtown Dubai. The Lana, Marasi Dr, Business Bay, Dubai, available daily from 1pm to 6pm, from Dhs600, Tel: (0)4 541 7755. Image: Set within the glass conservatory of Address Beach Resort, The Lounge offers a calm, all-day setting, but the Breeze Blossom Afternoon Tea is the real standout. Served daily from 3pm to 8pm, it includes unlimited hot and cold beverages, priced at Dhs198 per person. For those looking to elevate the experience, it's Dhs249 with a glass of Zonin Prosecco or Dhs298 with a glass of Louis Roederer Champagne. From Thursday to Saturday, a live harpist plays from 4pm, just the right kind of detail to make an afternoon feel like an occasion. Address Beach Resort, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, daily 3pm to 10pm, starting at Dhs198 per set, Tel: (0)4 879 8888. Voted What's On Dubai ‘s best Afternoon Tea 2021, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk afternoon tea serves up its afternoon tea in a sophisticated vault at Bijou Patisserie (lobby lounge). Prices start from Dhs195 for the afternoon tea with tea, coffee and homemade lemonade. You can elevate your experience and enjoy the afternoon tea above the clouds on the 51st floor at the exclusive Club Millesime with prices starting from Dhs385. Bijou Patisserie, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, lobby lounge, Wafi, Dubai, daily 2pm to 6pm, Tel: (0)4 281 4111. A solid choice if you're hosting out-of-towners, this spot offers unbeatable views of Burj Al Arab. The terrace is perfect for those cooler months when you want to enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat. Afternoon tea here is all about variety, think carefully curated sandwiches, cakes, and scones, served in a setting that's elegant yet relaxed. The service is spot on, and there’s an impressive tea menu to choose from if you're a fan of the brew. Al Fayrooz Lounge, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Umm Suqeim. Aspen Cafe by Kempinski at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates offers afternoon tea with nibbles ranging from sandwiches and wraps to scones and cakes. For sips, you's have non-alcoholic bubbly and freshly brewed beverages. The offer is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. It costs Dhs200 per adult or Dhs375 for two. Kempinski Hotel, Mall of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, daily 1pm to 7pm, Tel: (04) 409 5999. The Hi-Tea is a decadent affair at the luxury hotel, Palazzo Versace. Sample an assortment of finger sandwiches, plain scones with homemade jam; clotted cream; and lemon curd, and a variety of pastries. Pair it with Damman Freres tea. Only want tea to pair? It's Dhs378 for two guests, but if you want two glasses of Prosecco, it's Dhs504. If you're meeting mates over a quick catch-up, opt for the Cream Tea offer which will get you fruit and plain scones, served with clotted cream, homemade jam and lemon curd and tea for Dhs95 per person. Palazzo Versace, Culture Village, Al Jadaf, Dubai, daily 10.30am to 7pm. Tel: (0)4 556 8888. For tea lovers who think they've seen it all, this spot is a must-try. Set in the vast lobby of one of the world's most famous hotels, it's hard to miss the dramatic water droplet sculpture and the fire walls at the entrance, the setting is as striking as the tea. When it comes to the tea itself, it's all about the experience. With a detailed run-through of the tea-brewing process, you'll get to enjoy a range of top-tier sandwiches and a generous spread of cakes. It's one for the tea connoisseurs who appreciate the finer details. The Royal Tearoom, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 2pm to 5pm, priced at Dhs560 for two people. Tel: (04) 426 2000 Treat yourself to an afternoon of luxury with the Grand Palaces Afternoon Tea, served in the stunning Bluthner Hall. Here you can enjoy decadent desserts inspired by Europe's most famous palaces, including the airy Victoria Sponge Cake and rich Sacher Torte. Alongside, enjoy a selection of savoury bites, sandwiches, tarts, pastries, and scones, all paired with a choice of carefully curated Nina's Marie Antoinette teas, coffee, or hot chocolate. Raffles The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah. Tel: (0)4 248 8888). Image: Your afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton will include traditional scones, elegant sandwiches, and sweet treats such as truffles, macaroons and cakes. There are two options to pick from: traditional for Dhs215 which comes with tea or hot beverages, and Royal Treat for Dhs305 which includes a glass of champagne. You can even add Dhs150 per person for two hours of free-flowing sparkling wine. The Ritz-Carlton, The Walk, JBR, Dubai, daily 12.30pm to 5pm, Dhs215 for traditional and Dhs305 for royal, Tel: (04) 318 6150. Expect dainty bites and elegant flavours at Peacock Alley's Meet me at the Clock afternoon tea. On the savoury side, there's wild crab with caviar, black truffle pommes mousseline, smoked salmon roulade, and foie gras puffs, alongside classic sandwiches like tuna and aioli on brioche and coronation chicken on whole grain. Sweet treats include strawberry and rose cake, mango cheesecake, pistachio and raspberry mousse, and warm scones served with clotted cream and seasonal jams. A selection of fine teas completes the experience, with the option to add a glass of bubbly if you fancy. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, available Sunday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225, Tel: (0)4 515 9818. Shai Salon at Four Seasons Resort Dubai marks a decade of sweet memories with its limited-edition ‘A Decade in Desserts’ afternoon tea. Crafted by Senior Executive Pastry Chef Nicolas Lambert, the menu takes guests on a journey through the cities that shaped him, from Hong Kong and St. Petersburg to Dubai. Expect creations like Fra-Sia “Vacherin†with white strawberry, yuzu and basil; a raspberry and almond biscuit layered with lemon cream; and Chocolates “Caprice†with white chocolate brownie and caramelised cocoa nibs. Highlights also include the Honey “Bee†with Hatta Mountain honey and apricot, Exotic “Cloud†with passion fruit and coconut, and Le Clafoutis de Jeannot, a warm blueberry dessert with Tahitian vanilla creme fraiche. Served with your choice of tea or coffee. Shai Salon, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, daily 3pm to 7pm, from Dhs260. Tel: (0)4 270 7805. You'll get a selection of delectable treats at this all-new afternoon tea experience at Peacock Alley. Pick from the brew package, a pink gin cocktail package or a champagne package. The afternoon tea runs daily from 2pm to 6pm and starts at Dhs225 per person. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria, Palm Jumeirah, daily 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225 for classic, upgrade with a glass of bubbly for Dhs100. Tel:(0) 4 818 2222. Raffles is serving the Classic Afternoon Tea, priced at Dhs195 per person, available daily from 2pm to 6pm. Plus, there is now a Kids' Afternoon Tea (for children aged 12 and below) at Dhs75 per child. The experience features a delightful selection of savoury treats and sweet delicacies, elegantly presented on Victorian-style gold stands with unlimited tea and coffee served. Raffles Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Road, Wafi, Dubai, daily, 2pm to 6pm. Tel: (04) 324 8888. Godiva Cafe at Rixos Premium Dubai is offering a scrumptious afternoon tea experience combining Belgian chocolate heritage with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Savoury bites include cured salmon with caviar to Ottoman shrimp cocktail, sucuk & cheese Brioche and vegetarian quesadillas. On the sweet selection, there's Godiva's signature creations such as white chocolate cheesecake with kunafa crust, Turkish coffee chocolate swans, caramel eclairs, and Creme Brulee. Pair your experience with Dammann Freres tea s, or a choice of iced or flavoured coffee. It's Dhs179 per person, or Dhs269 for two, and the afternoon tea is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. Godiva Cafe, Rixos Premium Dubai, Dubai, 3pm to 6pm daily, Dhs179 for one and Dhs269 for two, Tel: (0)4 520 0000. @rixospremiumdubai Love an afternoon tea? Try the quintessential British tradition with an Arabic twist at Open Sesame at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown. The Neighborhood Arabic Tea Experience includes flavours from camel milk rose ganache to labneh-cucumber sandwiches and beyond. Offer: Dhs250 for two with afternoon tea , Dhs350 afternoon tea for two and art tour When: daily 1pm to 5pm Location: Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown Contact: 056 422 7120. @opensesamedubai Escape the summer heat with a refreshing twist on a classic tradition. At The Samovar Lounge, One&Only Royal Mirage, you can enjoy a selection of delicate pastries, and cool infusions served in the serene ambiance of Samovar Lounge. Ideal for a relaxed catch-up or a refined afternoon indulgence. 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Time Out Abu Dhabi
2 days ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Wizz Air just announced direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Beirut
Big news for frequent flyers and falafel fans – Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has just launched its very first direct route to Beirut. That's right, one of the UAE's favourite ultra-low-fare airlines is now connecting the capital with Lebanon's cultural powerhouse and it's doing it for less than the price of a fancy dinner out. Flights kicked off on Tuesday June 4 and now run three times a week – every Monday, Wednesday and Friday – with one-way fares starting from just Dhs249. It's the only ultra-low-cost direct connection between Abu Dhabi and Beirut, making it a game-changer for Lebanese expats, spontaneous city-breakers and anyone dreaming of a weekend in the mountains followed by a mezze marathon. Flights are already close to fully booked for the next few weeks – so if you're thinking of heading to the Levantine coast for a breezy escape, now's the time to jump online. And while you're there, tick off Beirut's Raouché Rocks, its buzzing Downtown district or the sprawling souks. Or go further afield with quick day trips to Batroun, Byblos or the Chouf Mountains – all within easy reach once you land. The new Beirut route is just the latest addition to Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's growing network across the Middle East, Central Asia and Europe. Route Operating days Starting from Fares from Abu Dhabi – Beirut Monday, Wednesday, Friday 4 June 2025 Dhs249 Tamara Vallois, head of commercial at Wizz Air said: 'Today marks a historic occasion of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's first landing in Lebanon. This new route opens up more opportunities for families, businesses, and tourists to travel affordably between two vibrant capitals, which is already underlined by the fact that our flights for the upcoming weeks are nearly all sold out. 'We stay committed to contributing to the Abu Dhabi ecosystem by boosting tourism and business links between the countries and our crew looks forward to seeing many happy customers on board soon for a well-deserved summer vacation visiting loved ones or discovering the many gems this incredible country has to offer.' H.E. Laura Lahoud, Minister of Tourism for Lebanon, added: 'The launch of direct flights between the UAE capital and Beirut by Wizz Air Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in our mission to revitalise Lebanon's tourism sector. 'This new route strengthens regional connectivity, fosters cultural exchange and aligns with our vision of making Lebanon more accessible to travellers. It will also be an important driver of travel demand and supports the creation of jobs and economic growth. We welcome this partnership and look forward to more visitors experiencing the beauty, rich history and renowned hospitality that Lebanon has to offer.' Need some travel inspo? Travelling from Abu Dhabi is about to be so much faster Zayed International Airport is the world's first airport to make this change 18 countries offering visa-on-arrival to UAE residents Here's where to go UAE citizens now get visa-on-arrival for India: a game-changer for travellers That quick trip to India just got even easier
Time Out Abu Dhabi
30-05-2025
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Your guide to the best things to do in Abu Dhabi this June
June in Abu Dhabi is many things: hot, humid and the perfect excuse to fill your calendar with seriously cool things to do indoors (and the odd al fresco soirée if you're brave). Whether you're craving world-class concerts, A-list premieres, indie film vibes, or a festive Christmas-in-June brunch (yes, really), the capital is rolling out a lineup of unforgettable happenings this month. We're talking Hans Zimmer live at Etihad Arena, Brad Pitt's F1 film premiering where it was actually filmed and ABBA bangers booming from Mamma Mia! the musical. There's also a sleek jazz-and-chess night at the Louvre, a themed brunch with a Greek island buzz and Pete Davidson cracking jokes in his UAE debut. Oh and in case you missed it, Eid Al Adha brings a four-day holiday – perfect for a staycation, fireworks, or feasting your way around Yas Bay. Here's your ultimate guide to what's hot in Abu Dhabi this June – and we're not just talking about the weather. Best things to do in June in Abu Dhabi Get mesmerised at a Hans Zimmer concert The film score maestro, who was already due to make an Abu Dhabi performance on May 31, has officially added a second show at Etihad Arena – and it's happening the very next day, on June 1. The German composer is basically Hollywood royalty at this point, having scored some of the most emotionally charged, spine-tingling soundtracks of all time. Think Inception, Interstellar, Gladiator, Dune, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King… honestly, it's a playlist of pure goosebumps. And yes, he's bringing it all to Yas Island with a full live orchestra. From Dhs399. May 31 and June 1. Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Try a film festival Clear your calendars and prepare to lean into the art of storytelling, because CineMAS 2025 is back and it's bringing serious indie film energy to Manarat Al Saadiyat. Running from May 26 to June 1, this weeklong festival of independent cinema isn't just about watching movies – it's about sparking conversations, honouring heritage, unpacking identities and maybe even rethinking your place in the world. From Dhs30. Mon May 26 to Sun June 1. Manarat Al Saadiyat. …And then tuck into a movie-inspired menu Dinner and a movie? How about dinner as the movie? A whimsical new dining experience is rolling into Abu Dhabi and it's bringing the big screen to your plate. Running alongside this year's CineMAS festival at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Taparelle has teamed up with Dine-W/Me and CineMAS to launch Le Cartoon – a nostalgic, movie-inspired dinner series that's straight out of an animated dream sequence. There are just 15 seats per slot, so make sure you book ahead to secure your spot. Dhs200 per person. Mon May 26-Sun June 1. 7pm-8pm; 8.15pm-9.15pm; 9.30pm-10.30pm; 10.45pm-11.45pm. Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, @taparellerestaurant (02 657 5832). Head to a Korean contemporary art exhibition Contemporary Art from Korea: 1960s to Today lands in the capital from May 16 to June 30, offering a deep dive into Korea's radical art movements and their legacy of experimentation, hybridity, and bold expression. Curated by Kyung-Hwan Yeo and Maya El Khalil, and designed by acclaimed studio Formafantasma, the show features standout works from the Seoul Museum of Art's collection. Expect layered media, sensory installations, and a journey that moves from the personal to the planetary – touching on identity, gender, tradition, technology, urbanisation, and the environment. Until Jun 30. Manarat AL Saadiyat. Celebrate Eid Al Adha Starting the month off with a bang are all the festivities for Eid Al Adha. Having already been confirmed by the UAE government, we will have four days off to mark Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha in Abu Dhabi – between June 5 and June 8. Whether you're plotting a poolside BBQ, eyeing up a luxe hotel escape, or just chasing the best lamb shoulder in town, the capital's got something for every kind of celebration. Yas Island is pulling out all the stops with stay-and-play deals, theme park thrills and fireworks lighting up Yas Bay. Meanwhile, beachside brunches are bringing the beats (and the bite), with live DJs, Churrasco platters and views that deserve a Boomerang. There are also plenty of staycation deals with perks like free theme park tickets, buffet blowouts and kids-stay-free offers – so you can splash, snooze and feast all in one go. Here's your ultimate guide to making this Eid Al Adha one for the books Take the kiddies to Disney Jr. Live DISNEY JUNIOR LIVE ON TOUR: COSTUME PALOOZA – Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume PaloozaÓ Friends and Family event at the Fox Performing Arts Center in Riverside on Thursday, September 1st. (Disney/Phil McCarten) PETER PARKER, MILES MORALES, GWEN STACY Disney Jr. Live On Tour: Let's Play! is heading to Abu Dhabi for the very first time, and it's landing just in time for Eid weekend. From June 6 to 8, Etihad Arena on Yas Island will be packed with giggles, dancing, and all the Disney Jr. magic you could wish for. Join Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Ariel, Ginny and Bitsy, the SuperKitties, Puppy Dog Pals, and Marvel's Spidey and his Amazing Friends for a high-energy, interactive show where your kids can sing, cheer, and dance along with their favourite characters. From Dhs95. June 6-8. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Try your hand at chess at a super suave jazz night Love the sound of jazz, a bit of friendly competition and a venue dripping in artistic vibes? Then clear your schedule for Saturday June 7 because Chess Night at Marta is back – and it's cooler than ever. Tucked away in the heart of Louvre Abu Dhabi (yes, that Louvre), Marta is hosting the final Chess Night of the season and it's shaping up to be the most sophisticated soirée in the capital. Think: smooth jazz, sleek moves across the board and an atmosphere straight out of a speakeasy. Dhs250 (ladies), Dhs400 (gents). Sat Jun 7, 8pm-1am. Marta, Louvre Abu Dhabi. (052 280 5885). Watch Jesse Cook live Guitar wizard Jesse Cook is bringing his world-famous flamenco fusion to the capital for one night only, and it promises to be pure musical magic. Hot off a European tour that wowed crowds in London, Munich, and Vienna, the Canadian maestro is landing at the Cultural Foundation for an unforgettable evening of rhythm, soul, and serious fingerstyle finesse. Dhs150. Sat Jun 14 8pm. Cultural Foundation, Al Hisn. info@ (02 657 6348). Watch Mamma Mia! live on stage Calling all dancing queens (and kings) – this June, it's time to don your platform boots and embrace the glitter because Mamma Mia! is hitting the stage at Etihad Arena, Yas Island. From Wednesday June 11 to Sunday June 22, the global phenomenon will bring ABBA's iconic hits to life in a show-stopping production that has captivated audiences for nearly 25 years. With over 65 million viewers worldwide, 50 productions, and translations into 16 languages, Mamma Mia! is a certified musical marvel – and now, it's Abu Dhabi's turn to join the party. From Dhs125. Wed Jun 11-Sun Jun 22. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. @etihadarena (0600 511 115). …And if that's not enough, you can head to a Mamma Mia!-themed brunch For two weekends only – June 13-15 and June 20-22 – a pre-show event called Bites & Bubbles will be warming things up before the evening performances at Mamma Mia! kick off. Think Mediterranean nibbles, a splash of sparkle and the kind of upbeat buzz you'd expect at a party on a Greek island (just swap Santorini for Yas Island). Dhs250 per person (groups of 4+), Dhs280 per person (single ticket). Mamma Mia! tickets from Dhs125 (weekdays) and Dhs200 (weekends). June 13-15 and June 20-22 (Fridays & Saturdays only). Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Head to a Christmas brunch (yes, really) Think you have to wait until December for roast turkey, stuffing and a side of Mariah Carey? Think again. Abu Dhabi's Coopers is throwing the calendar out the window with its gloriously unhinged – and undeniably brilliant – Alternative X-Mas Brunch, happening not once but twice this June. Mark your diaries for June 21 and 22, when Santa swaps snow for sand dunes and your favourite festive beats get a sunny remix. Yes, it's Christmas. Yes, it's summer. And yes, there will be gravy. Dhs249 (soft drinks), Dhs379 (premium beverages). June 21-22, Cooper's, Park Rotana. @coopersabudhabi. Catch Brad Pitt's film premiering in Abu Dhabi Okay, this is one you can't actually attend (unless you get an invite, lucky you) but good to know so you can do some celeb spotting. Brad Pitt's high-octane F1 The Movie is officially making its regional premiere in Abu Dhabi on June 25, and it's a full-throttle moment for the capital. Why? Because not only will the city be rolling out the red carpet for Hollywood royalty, it's also the place where key scenes of the movie were filmed – from high-speed drama at Yas Marina Circuit to high-stakes moments at Zayed International Airport and twofour54 Studios. The premiere takes place a day before the film's official Middle East release – so expect flashing cameras, fast cars, and maybe even a glimpse of Brad himself. Giggle with Pete Davidson Pete Davidson is making his way to the UAE for the first time ever and it's going to be one seriously unmissable night of comedy. The Saturday Night Live legend, stand-up icon and all-around comedic wild card is set to take over Etihad Arena on June 25, as part of this year's Abu Dhabi Comedy Season. From Dhs295. Wed June 25, 8pm. Etihad Arena, Yas Bay. Hear Dave Chappelle's cracking jokes If you thought last year's set from Dave Chappelle was something special, buckle up. The comedy kingpin is coming back to Etihad Arena on Thursday June 27, for a show that's about to go down in Abu Dhabi's stand-up history books. Last year, Chappelle kicked off the first-ever Abu Dhabi Comedy Week with a sold-out performance that drew over 14,000 fans – the largest comedy show the region's ever seen. Now, he's set to top it. From Dhs275. Thu Jun 27. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. More going on in Abu Dhabi You can now get a robotaxi from Zayed International Airport Trips to the airport just got an upgrade Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted 20 incredibly fun ways to explore Abu Dhabi after dark The city is at its most fascinating once the sun goes down
