
4 of the best dishes to try in Dubai this weekend: July 14 to 17
Tiganito Kalamari
Crispy fried baby calamari cooked to golden perfection, paired with vibrant sweet peppers and a flavorful spiced emulsion that adds a delightful kick. This dish is an irresistible starter that perfectly balances texture and taste, making it a must-try for seafood enthusiasts and anyone craving a light yet satisfying bite.
Location: Gaia, Trade Centre, DIFC
Times: Daily, 12:00pm to 3:30pm, 6:30pm to 11:30pm
Cost: Dhs80
Contact: 04 241 4242 Mimi Kakushi
Raspberry Pavlova, Lychee Sorbet, Rose Jelly
A delicate gluten-free dessert that beautifully balances textures and flavors. The crisp, airy raspberry pavlova provides a light sweetness, perfectly complemented by the cool and refreshing lychee sorbet. The fragrant rose jelly adds a subtle floral note, making this dessert an elegant and refreshing finale to any meal.
Location: Mimi Kakushi, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah 2
Times: Daily, 12pm to 2am
Cost: Dhs65
Contact: 04 379 4811 Tashas Cafe
Chopped House Salad
A vibrant, nutrient-packed salad that's as satisfying as it is fresh. Crisp gem lettuce, creamy avo, red cabbage, cherry tomatoes, red onion, coriander, sunflower seeds, cashew nuts, and black sesame seeds come together with a light vinaigrette for the perfect balance of crunch and zest. Add grilled chicken for extra protein and a heartier bite.
Location: Tashas, Dubai Marina Mall
Times: Daily, 8am to 11pm
Cost: With chicken Dhs100 and without Dhs80
Contact: 04 458 5611 KIRA Dubai
Wagyu Tartar
An elevated take on a raw bar classic. This dish features finely chopped wagyu beef, delicately dressed in a nutty sesame dressing that enhances the meat's natural richness. Served alongside warm, pillowy miso buns, it's a textural and flavourful contrast that delivers indulgence in every bite. A must-try for lovers of refined, Asian-inspired plates. (Contains gluten, dairy, sesame)
Location: Kira Restaurant, Marsa Al Arab
Times: Daily, 12pm to 1am
Cost: Dhs230
Contact: 04 328 1665
Images: Instagram
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What's On
3 hours ago
- What's On
9 incredible staycations a one-hour-drive outside of Dubai
One might think you need to take a flight for a change of scenery, but we're here to tell you that that is not always the case. For us Dubai folk, stunning, luxurious staycations await just an hour's (or a bit more) drive away from the city, offering breathtaking beach views, mountain escapes, desert hideouts, overwater villas and heritage stays. Anantara Santorini It's in the name. Anantara Santorini is perched on the edge of the Arabian Gulf's pristine blue waters, and will take you away to Grecian lanes drenched in white, blue and stone. It's a stunning crossover between raw Aegean beauty and refined Emirati elegance, and is truly an escape – a secluded spot ideally situated halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in Ghantoot. This adults-only beachfront address features just 22 sumptuous rooms and suites, sun-drenched terraces, and each coming with their own 24/7 butler. Getting there: You can drive straight to Ghantoot in about an hour and a half @anantarasantorini Casa Mikoko Another one of African-inspired UAE staycations, this one brings a touch of Zanzibar. Part of the rustic, Zanzibar-inspired Kite Beach Centre is Casa Mikoko, a glamping experience of five chalets nestled within the Umm Al Quwain mangroves. Three of the five come with their own plunge pools, serving as a delightful spot to start the day. And all boast an African-inspired aesthetic and views over the calm waters that gives staycationers a tropical and instant on-holiday feel. Book one of the chalets with private pools and live like you're staying in the Maldives with an Instagrammable floating breakfast. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour and 10 minutes. @ Bab Al Shams Located in a bubble of silence out by the Al Qudra Lakes, Bab Al Shams is true escape. The Bab Al Shams experience has always been a blend of modern luxury and Bedouin simplicity. At the hotel. guest can experience all those aspects of traditional life. Inspired by the Bedouin way 0f life, the stay offers an incredible experience marked with adventure with the resort's range of thrilling nomadic desert experiences. Think camel riding and falconry, and some stargazing with your very own telescope if you book the pool villas. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour. @babalshamshotel The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Dessert One of two luxurious Ritz-Carlton staycations in RAK, this desert retreat blends Bedouin traditions with five-star luxuries to create an experience that feels worlds away from the city. Set amongst the beauty of a protected desert reserve, picturesque scenery and rich local heritage backdrop villas that come with private pools and gourmet dining. The desert activities range from horse riding and camel treks to wildlife drives, archery and stargazing. There's also the unique sensory Rainforest spa experience with 16 different hydrothermal stations Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour. @ritzcarltonalwadidesert JA Hatta Fort Hotel Tucked into the rugged Hajar Mountains, JA Hatta Fort Hotel is a charming mountain escape just over an hour from Dubai, offering a refreshing change of pace from the city's buzz. One of the UAE's only mountain staycations, the property is surrounded by natural beauty and blends rustic charm with laidback luxury, with chalet-style rooms, private terraces, and lush gardens dotted with peacocks. Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply relaxing by the pool, it's the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. Getting there: The drive to the hotel takes about an hour and 20 minutes. @jahattaforthotel The Chedi Al Bait The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is a collection of five heritage houses that were once owned by local families and have now been transformed into 65 elegant guestrooms and suites while carefully preserving the historical former homes of distinguished local families have been enhanced with luxury touches befitting of a five-star hotel, while keeping the brand's historic design DNA. Inside the guestrooms and suites, you will find a perfect blend of Arabic and Asian design elements. Experiences include a majlis, spa, museum and library. Getting there: The drive to the hotel takes about half an hour. @thechedialbait Najd Al Meqsar Arguably one of the most unique staycations in the UAE, Sharjah Collection has transformed a former traditional mountain village into a beautiful heritage hotel of just seven 'Kareen Houses', each with a bedroom. Perched on a mountain top in scenic Khorfakkan on Sharjah's East Coast, you'll count rolling hills and dense forests among your neighbours. So, if peace and quiet are high on your staycation agenda, this is one spot to bookmark. Much of the original features remain at Najd Al Meqsar, in the lobby and communal areas, the restaurant, and the guest rooms. Hand-hewn wooden beams, stone walls, and a thatched roof all add to the traditional charm. Getting there: The drive to the hotel takes about an hour and 20 minutes. @najdalmeqsar Faya Retreat This is one boutique stay you can have to yourself entirely. Basically, privatise the whole space. The Mysk Al Fayah Desert Retreat allows you to have an exclusive space just for yourself, your family and friends. Amenities at this spot include a private pool, an all-day dining restaurant, barbecue facilities, a wellness centre and non-smoking rooms. There's much to do in the area of Mleiha, and 5 king-sized private bedrooms with terraces to fill out. Take part in stargazing, explore archaeological and World UNESCO Heritage sites, go biking and make incredible memories with your close group. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour. @staykuae Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat Villas Set along the shores of Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi, Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat Villas offers a barefoot luxury escape with front-row views of the sea. Designed for privacy and relaxation, each beachfront villa comes with its own private pool, sun loungers, and open-air living spaces that blur the line between indoors and out. Whether you're paddleboarding at sunrise or dining under the stars, this is coastal glamping reimagined with comfort in mind. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour and 30 minutes. @babalnojoum_hudayriyat Images: Socials


What's On
4 hours ago
- What's On
The best bars in Dubai to try out this week: July 28 to 31
Even if the weekend is over, that doesn't mean the fun is. If you're looking to let your hair down and head out into town (if that's your thing), we may be able to interest you with some bars in Dubai. We have just the list for you – something for everyone, from cool underground bars to arcades and elegant nights out. Take your pick. For the cool kids: SOON Izakaya For the music-loving, party people – SOON Izakaya is a cool, neon-lit tribute to Tokyo's late-night dining culture. Tucked away in JLT, this retro-futuristic spot blends Japanese street-style eats with playful 80s nostalgia. From yakitori skewers and gyoza to creative cocktails and sake, the menu is made for sharing. With arcade games, bold décor, and an edgy soundtrack, SOON offers a quirky, immersive experience. Location: SOON Izakaya, JLT Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 1am, Friday, 12pm to 3am, Saturday, 5pm to 3am, Sunday, 5pm to 1am Contact: (0) 55 434 0575 @soondxb For the high-flying: Gilt Truly a sight to behold, Gilt is Burj Al Arab's cocktail bar offering where you'll have to pre-book if you want to snag a reservation. The maximalist interiors, draped in gold and metallic, everything glitz and grand, are paired with slick service, and a mixology menu befitting of the iconic setting. The bar team, lead by Thibault Méquignon, whip up creations such as the jar-aged cherry blossom negroni, and an Oolong old fashioned. Location: Gilt, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Times: Daily, 6pm to 3am Contact: (800) 323232 @gilt_burjalarab For an elegant night out: Blind Tiger Hard to find, impossible to forget. That's the self-appointed tagline for this chic spot in Turtle Lagoon, Jumeirah Al Naseem. The mirrored ceiling reflects the venue's roaring 20s glamour and many artistic nods to the theme's main concept. There's a menu of craft circus-inspired cocktails; light, predominantly Asian, bites; weekly jazz nights; and an atmosphere of unabashed chicness. Location: Turtle Lagoon, Jumeirah Al Naseem Times: Daily, 5pm to 2am Contact: (800) 323232 @blindtiger For something different: Boom Battle Bar This entertainment bar is more than just an arcade – some intense sports such as axe throwing, darts, beer pong – the works. Boom Battle Bar is for all those fun-lovers who want to do something a little different from the usual arcade games. This is the first international outpost of the much-loved entertainment bar. All this fun with delicious cocktails at hand. Location: Boom Battle Bar Dubai, DoubleTree by Hilton JBR, The Walk Times: Sunday to Thursday, 4pm to 1am, Friday and Saturday, 4pm to 2am Contact: (0) 4 585 7357 @ Images: Socials > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in


Gulf Today
9 hours ago
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UAE to compete at ‘I-Sing World Finals' in Toronto
Powerful albeit effortless from an ensemble, it happened in Dubai on Friday evening while blitzes of all form and substance have been rocking and rattling the world. This was the send-off for a quartet who shall represent the UAE at an international vocal excellence competition in Canada this August 12 to 15. A concert that took place several days after the UAE was ranked among the safest in the world, and was only expected to preview what Kirstin Reyes (12), Zairah Alexine Ragat (12), Celine Madison Matondo (10), and Dr. Rommel Pilapil Sergio (51), would be able to deliver at the 'I-Sing World Finals' in Toronto. Regardless of race, creed and orientation, one would have the chance to abound with their God-given talents by way of well-grounded guidance and support. 'I-Sing World Finals' is a twist from the 2014 13-Asian country battle of singers 'I-Sing' competition founded by Malaysian entertainment industry players Yuro James Tee and Romli Bidin. I-Sing World Finals (UAE) national director Elipas Sibua said: 'Held yearly, it is a cultural movement that promotes excellence in singing, performance artistry, and international collaboration. It provides a stage for both amateur and professional singers to shine, compete, and be discovered.' 'The festival is a vibrant hub of music genres, vocal styles, and artistic interpretations. The UAE Team proudly joins the global celebration to represent not only the United Arab Emirates but also the rich diversity and talent of its people,' added Sibua. Sibua has been preparing his students Reyes, Ragat, Matondo, and Sergio for the four-round solo and duet category friendly blitzkriegs one hour in every thrice-a-week session in the past four weeks. According to the competition website, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Thailand, Uzbekhistan, South Africa, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Tajikistan, Cuba, China, Kyrgystan, and Kazakhstan are at least the other 13 participating countries. On Friday evening, the Canadian University Dubai Hub was transformed into an intimate musical venue where the UAE Team rendered Filipino and English contemporary and classical songs. Some were accompanied by Berklee College of Music (Boston, Massachusetts) student, John Paul Alviz who began piano lessons at age seven in the Philippines. Ballerina Olivia Sheel interpreted the 'Twilight Saga' theme song 'A Thousand Years.' Other performers were Ayeesha Camilla Emperado, saxophone; Heinrich Agsaulo, piano, original Filipino compositions; Dwayne Fernandes, electric guitar; Rojen Khalil, violin, traditional Arabic music; Keer Wang, piano, classical pieces; and from Alviz who encouraged the audience to sing along with his medley of love songs. Children of expatriates from South Africa, the Philippines, India, Egypt, and China, all have been tutored by Sibua for at least a year. Like Ragat who harvested gold and silver in the categories of broadway, gospel, self-accompaniment, and modeling; Alviz entered the finals and reaped six golds while Wang hauled in a bronze, three silvers and three golds in their respective piano divisions at the 'World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2024' in Los Angeles, California. Ragat, encouraged to profoundly progress on her love for music by her parents and Sibua, said: 'That incredible WCOPA 2024 experience ignited a deeper passion for singing and performing. It showed me how powerful music can be, not just as an art form; but as a way to connect, inspire, and express myself. I am excited to keep on pursuing music and growing as an artist. I am excited for the UAE Team at the I-Sing World Finals. I am grateful.' Reyes was age three when her musically-inclined parents introduced her to the arts: 'Dad and mom played a variety of genres. I found myself drawn to singing. Influences like Celine Dion and pop, rock, among others shaped my style. Thank you to Coach Eli (Sibua). Music has always been a source of joy and self-expression. It is a mix of excitement and nerves for the incredible opportunity at the I-Sing World. I hope to grow as an artist through it.' Matondo is among the BKIDZZZ modern hip-hop/K-pop dance group that represented the UAE at the Junior Category of the 'World Supremacy Battlegrounds 2025 at The Space of the Dubai Investment Park. University educator Sergio's love for music began when he joined the church choir in his hometown of Baras in Rizal Province, Philippines.