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Forbes
21-05-2025
- Forbes
10 Travel Experiences For Your UAE Bucket List
Stargaze, soar and safari through the Arabian Peninsula. The United Arab Emirates isn't short on showstoppers. Beyond the record-breaking skyscrapers and glittering shopping malls, though, lies a trove of unforgettable experiences that are worthy of your bucket list. Whether gazing at starlit skies in the world's largest sand desert, mountain biking through emerald wadis in the Hajar Mountains or partaking in a sophisticated afternoon tea at the Burj Khalifa, the country delivers activities as diverse as its landscapes. From immersive fine dining in an aquarium to ziplining at the UAE's highest peak, these 10 travel experiences showcase the country's wild beauty, cultural richness and knack for world-class luxury for both first-time and frequent visitors. To the infinity pool and beyond. One of the best ways to appreciate the engineering marvel that is Palm Jumeirah — the plant-shaped archipelago that has a central trunk, fronds and a surrounding crescent — is a dip in Cloud 22's infinity sky pool at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Atlantis The Royal. The glamorous, adults-only rooftop pool club offers unparalleled views of Palm Jumeirah and the gulf from 315 feet; a menu serving Mediterranean fare; and a chic swim-up bar. For the ultimate pool day in Dubai, reserve a floating bed, sun lounger or cabana with a plunge pool, or indulge in a luxurious pool villa. Eat in the company of stingrays and sharks. You can enjoy fine dining like nowhere else at Ossiano, an immersive culinary concept 33 feet underground at Four-Star Atlantis, The Palm, in one of the region's largest aquariums. A 10-course meal at the Five-Star eatery feels both like a journey through the world's coastal landscapes and an ode to seasonality, terroir and sea foraging. Sample beautifully presented dishes like scallops with white corn, almond and coconut, and Norwegian langoustine with passionfruit and jalapeño. You'll dine in the company of stingrays, sharks, moray eels and schools of fish, all gliding past the restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows. Learn about Arab astronomers and the constellations. To peer into the skies in the UAE's most impressive natural landscape, head to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Abu Dhabi's Liwa region, a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Abu Dhabi city. Built like a grand desert fortress with watchtowers, regal fountains and palm-tree-lined walking paths, the resort is at the edge of Rub' al Khali. Here in this vast sandy landscape (also known as the Empty Quarter), colossal dunes create a breathtaking setting for stargazing — an activity that the resort can organize. After a short desert drive, find yourself under a starlit night sky in the company of an enthusiastic adventure guide and stargazer. Learn about the achievements of Arab astronomers and spot constellations, stars and planets through a telescope over an evening of spirited storytelling. Discover the beauty of the Dubai sands. For a unique perspective in Dubai, make your way to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve with the experts at Platinum Heritage on a Heritage Desert Safari. Accompanied by a conservation guide, you'll discover the beauty of the Dubai desert, learn about the native flora and fauna, and spot sand gazelles and Arabian oryx, all from the comfort of a Land Rover Defender. Afterward, sit down to an Emirati dinner and shisha and partake in traditional dancing and drumming for a fun end to the evening. For a more upscale option that involves sunset canapes, a private cabana with a falconry demonstration, a six-course meal by a respected chef and a dazzling display of fire and acrobatics, book the Platinum Desert Safari. This high-end desert outing can be arranged during a stay at Five-Star Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. After ziplining, glide over to Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort. For a brag-worthy adventure in the UAE, head to Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, the country's highest peak, standing 6,345 feet above sea level in the Hajar Mountains. At the Jais Adventure Center, zip across the valley from 5,511 feet on Jais Flight, reaching thrilling speeds of 75 to 99 miles per hour as you soar above jagged desert mountains, winding roads and plunging canyons on one of the world's longest ziplines. For a less terrifying alternative, consider the Jais Sledder, a rider-operated toboggan that you'll maneuver around the slopes at 25 miles per hour. Consider Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort for a luxurious base for excitement in the emirate. Between adventures, you'll find gorgeous overwater villas, a natural mangrove reserve and plenty of watersports here. Admire the elegant, dhow-shaped Dubai Opera. A striking example of contemporary architecture in the city, the Dubai Opera is worth visiting to admire its elegant, dhow-shaped design — a nod to the city's maritime heritage — and to glimpse at its beautiful interior. Guided tours of the opera give a closer look at the building's design, sculptures and artworks while granting behind-the-scenes access to the fascinating backstage areas. For an even more enchanting evening, check out the official program and book tickets to watch ballet, contemporary dance, a concert or a stand-up comedy show. Nearby, Five-Star Armani Hotel Dubai, in the Burj Khalifa, is an excellent choice for a stylish stay in Dubai's most prestigious neighborhood. Kayak on the quiet waters. Leave Dubai's urban attractions behind and drive 90 minutes to Hatta, a town at the foot of the Hajar Mountains, just north of the protected Hatta Mountain Reserve. Here, a landscape of rugged peaks, emerald lakes, palm groves and rocky wadis provides abundant opportunities for adventure — whether you're hiking or biking along the area's 20 miles of trails. Nearby, at Hatta Dam, rent a kayak and enjoy a peaceful few hours on the quiet waters, surrounded by dramatic peaks. The activity center at Wadi Hub offers more fun in the form of archery, ax throwing, a ropes course and zorbing (rolling downhill in a hamster-like wheel). Recharge on Bluewaters Island. While there are many reasons to visit Banyan Tree Dubai on Bluewaters Island, a highlight is the understatedly elegant Banyan Tree Spa, which promises to leave you relaxed with its extensive menu of illuminating facials, revitalizing body treatments, herbal baths and soothing massages that draw upon Asian wellness heritages. But if you seek quick rejuvenation after a day of adventures in Dubai, don't think twice before booking the 60-minute Rainforest Experience, a hydrothermal journey through a series of steam rooms, saunas, themed showers, Jacuzzis and jets in a recommended sequence. Afternoon tea and astounding views are always on the menu here. To see Dubai's most astounding views in style, skip the crowded observation decks at the Burj Khalifa and head to Four-Star Restaurant and Lounge, set at a dizzying height of 1,450 feet, on the 122nd floor of the world's tallest skyscraper. Over afternoon tea at the lounge, take in the sophisticated French art deco interiors while you nibble (freshly baked scones, mini sandwiches), sip (premium coffees, teas and champagne) and feast on astounding panoramic views over the city. Aquaventure World is 50 acres of splash-filled fun. There are a host of epic underwater exploits for all ages at Aquaventure World back at Atlantis, The Palm. The splashy wonderland sits on more than 50 acres, which means some strategizing will be in order if your goal is to ride the world's largest waterslide tube, float on the longest river in the region and see as many of the nearly 65,000 marine animals as possible. To help with the latter activity, go diving or snorkeling under the guidance of professionals to see stingrays, sharks and hundreds of other animal species up close.
03-04-2025
- Entertainment
The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 4 to 6 April 2025
Your guide to the best food, arts and culture across Dubai this week. As we venture into the first week of April, live music and culinary surprises take hold in Dubai. Start planning your weekend of dining, nightlife and entertainment – you can thank us later. Friday 4 April It's time to hop on board. Blume has created a luxurious meal on wheels, which includes a beautiful Christian Dior-themed restaurant in Dubai Mall. If you want to add some drama to your dinner, then jump onto one of the train carriages, which look like they are part of the Orient Express. Dior bags are prettily piled up by the entrance, and Dior cushions are on the seats. Blume's menu showcases a fusion of flavours that covers the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. GO: Visit for more information. Chef Robin Höfer has been making a name for himself in the dining world. He previously worked at the MICHELIN-starred restaurant Ossiano and was nominated for Gault&Millau UAE's Future Great of the Year 2025. Now, he has created a superb supper club in Dubai with the opening of Robz' Chef's Table. Robz' Chef's Table draws inspiration from his life and career, showcasing Asian flavours for just eight guests per sitting. Expect Käse Spätzle elevated with black truffle, The Golden Egg stuffed with lobster and tapioca pearls and Tom Kha Soup, which blends French techniques with Thai flavours. Prices start from AED 750 per person. GO: Follow @chefrobinhoefer on Instagram for more information. French Montana will light up FIVE Palm Jumeirah's Bohemia Beach Club. Get ready to party as the rapper promises an epic night of music, glamour, and vibes that will get you grooving. For those unversed, French Montana, originally Karim Kharbouch, is a global music sensation hailing from Morocco. He moved to the US when he was 13 and soon, burst into the music scene with his mixtapes and hit single, Choppa Choppa Down. Blending rap and hip-hop, his work soon started resonating with audiences. His hit tracks include Unforgettable, Pop That, and No Stylist. Tickets start from AED 150. GO: Visit for more information. Saturday 5 April Taking place at Ain Dubai, AfroLOUD is the biggest Afro festival of its kind in the region and will be headlined by CKAY and Young Stunna. The event includes artists, a live band, food stalls and fashion pop-ups. The event will bring together a star-studded lineup of stars from the Afrobeats, Afro house, and Afro Desi genres. Expect the sounds of drums and sights of a lively dancefloor. And, if you're after an Insta-worthy experience, you can dance the day and night away under the world's tallest observation wheel, Ain Dubai. GO: Visit for tickets and more information. On your marks, get set, race. The Dubai World Cup will attract trainers and jockeys from all over the world. As one of the most prestigious horse racing tournaments in the world, the Dubai World Cup was launched by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai in 1996, and continues to be one of the most exciting events in the UAE's sporting calendar and includes $12 million at stake in the title contest. We'll see you on race day. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Adriatique is a legendary DJ duo of Adrian Shala and Adrian Schweizer, who have dominated the electronic music realm since meeting in 2008. Their performances and productions are long and meditative affairs, constantly surprising the listener with subtle twists interrupting their hypnotic groove. Known for their hits such as 'Home', 'Miracle', and 'With You', Adriatique have transformed the way electronic music is produced and experienced. The dynamic duo will take over the desert dancefloor at Terra Solis this weekend. Saturday 5 April. AED 250 per person. GO: Visit for tickets and more information. Sunday 6 April TAAMA restaurant has opened in Sohum Wellness Sanctuary, and prides itself on offering mindful eating. The concept celebrates nature and aims to encourage relaxation. At TAAMA, guests can enjoy plant-based dining, which is rooted in wellness at its core. Executive Chef Fabienne Saroufim is behind the menu, drawing inspiration from her molecular gastronomy studies. Highlight dishes include Artichoke Spread with spices, Hibachi Grilled Skewer and Lion's Mane, which is slow-roasted over the open fire to create a smoky richness. GO: Visit for more information. If you're a petrolhead, it's time to buckle up because OFFSET is making its return to the city. Here, it's all about exclusive and custom builds. From classic Japanese beasts and European icons to sleek modern performance machines, these cars will line up and rev to showcase their quality – and of course, flex. But cars are not the only stars of the show. OFFSET 2025 turns the energy up with live graffiti by Graffiti Dubai, a street dance session by GrandStyle, DJ sets and live entertainment. GO: Visit for more information. Celebrate the Sakura Festival at Armani/Hashi Mark the arrival of cherry blossom season with an elegant culinary tribute at Armani Hotel Dubai, where the hotel's Japanese fine-dining restaurant will be serving a six-course Sakura-inspired menu set against stunning views of the Dubai skyline. Inspired by Japan's cherished Hanami tradition, the menu features dishes like Japanese Crispy Tuna with Truffle & Caviar, a delicate Sushi & Sashimi Platter, Sakura Ebi Kaki-age, Hokkaido Scallop Robata, and Saroma Wagyu MB 9+ Striploin, finishing with a refreshing Yuzu Granita and a signature Sakura Cherry Blossom Cake. Available daily until 15 April from 6:30pm to 11:30pm. AED 790 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information.
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
Robz' Chef's Table: Ossiano chef launches a supper club in Dubai
Robz' Chef's Table draws inspiration from his life and career. Chef Robin Höfer has been making a name for himself in the dining world. At the MICHELIN-Starred restaurant Ossiano, he was nominated for Gault&Millau UAE's Future Great of the Year 2025. Now, he is creating a supper club in Dubai, Robz' Chef's Table. Robz' Chef's Table draws inspiration from his life and career, and showcases Asian flavours. Robin has worked at some of the top MICHELIN-Starred restaurants around the world. The supper club offers a more personal dining experience, and is limited to only eight seats. Plus, guests can use cutlery passed down from his grandmother, Lore. Robz' Chef's Table starts with a Tepache welcome drink. Robin hails from Germany, and adds some of the country's comfort food on the menu. Käse Spätzle has been elevated with black truffle, crispy onion and a salad bouquet. The Golden Egg is inspired by his travels in Thailand, and combines lobster and tapioca pearls. The Tom Kha Soup blends French techniques with Thai flavours. Plus, the desserts hark back to his childhood memories in Germany. The drinks menu at Robz' Chef's Table includes the German drink, Spezi, which is served with jelly, black lemon, kumquat and finger lime. The non-alcoholic pairing comes with homemade fermented drinks like kombucha and lemonade. Robin explained: 'The Chef's Table is a testing ground for me to showcase my cuisine in my own kitchen. Each dish tells a story, taking guests through my culinary journey – from my apprenticeship in Germany to my most recent experiences working at World's 50 Best Restaurant Disfrutar in Barcelona and three MICHELIN-Starred Core by Clare Smyth in London. I am grateful to welcome diners into my home, where they become part of my dream to open my own restaurant'. Robz' Chef's Table takes place three times a week. The prices start from AED 750 per person for non-alcoholic pairing, and AED 850 with wine pairing. Check in with FACT for the best things to do in Dubai. GO: Follow @chefrobinhoefer on Instagram for more information.
Khaleej Times
18-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Celebrate UAE Mother's Day with these 6 offers and activities
With UAE Mother's Day around the corner, here are some of the best offers and activities you can make the most of: Indulge in an exclusive dessert Kaspia Dubai, the iconic Parisian dining spot in DIFC, invites guests to celebrate Mother's Day in style on March 21. Offering an elegant culinary experience, the restaurant presents a refined menu featuring luxurious sharing-style starters like Homemade Piroshki and Olivier Salad, along with indulgent mains such as Grilled Australian Wagyu Ribeye Steak and Tortiglioni with Caviar Kaspia. To mark the occasion, Kaspia introduces two exclusive treats: the delicate Pink Pavlova dessert (Dh65) and the refreshing Reverence mocktail (Dh50), crafted with lychee puree, blackberry syrup, rose water, and grapefruit soda. Skin and hair treatment offers Give your mothers the gift of radiant beauty this UAE Mother's Day with the latest in Korean skincare at Zieda Aesthetics Clinic and Beauty Lounge in Jumeirah 1, Dubai. Specialising in the coveted Korean Glass Skin, the clinic offers advanced, customised treatments to enhance skin and hair health. Book an appointment at 04 492 0300 or 050 213 7074. Fine dining experience Celebrate Mother's Day with an unforgettable fine dining experience at the one Michelin-starred Ossiano, located in Atlantis, The Palm. Offering a progressive 10-course tasting menu inspired by the ocean and coastal lands, Ossiano takes guests on a sensory journey through exceptional global ingredients. With an intimate setting for just 54 diners, the restaurant's breathtaking underwater ambiance, set 10 meters below one of the world's largest aquariums, creates a truly immersive experience. Open daily from 6pm to 11pm, it promises an extraordinary celebration of motherhood. Complimentary dessert This Mother's Day, Ting Irie is treating moms to a complimentary dessert when they dine in on March 21, from 12pm to 2am. Known for its vibrant flavours and island-inspired dishes, Ting Irie offers a selection of indulgent Jamaican desserts, including Plantain Tarts, Granny's Pudding, and the Crunky Monkey chocolate tart. With a lively atmosphere and a menu full of bold Caribbean flavours, mothers and their loved ones can enjoy a unique and heartwarming celebration, the Jamaican way. And some more dessert This Mother's Day, TOTÓ Vini e Cucina, Dubai's premium Italian dining destination, invites families to celebrate with a heartfelt gathering on March 21. Mothers dining at TOTÓ will be treated to a complimentary sharing Tiramisu, a rich and indulgent dessert made with espresso-soaked savoiardi, velvety mascarpone, and cocoa. Known for its authentic Italian flavors and warm ambiance, TOTÓ offers signature dishes like Ravioli TOTÓ and Filetto TOTÓ, creating the perfect setting for a memorable meal. Relax and rejuvenate with a beachfront staycation Celebrate Mother's Day in luxury at Banyan Tree Dubai with a serene beachfront staycation, available until March 23. This exclusive offer includes the best available rates, daily breakfast at Alizée, and dinner at Demon Duck, Alizée, or Tocha. Guests can enjoy 20 per cent off dining and spa treatments, early check-in, and late check-out. The experience features indulgent spa services, including the Royal Banyan massage, private treatment rooms, vitality pools, and a 500-meter private shoreline for relaxation. Treat your mother to a rejuvenating escape with world-class dining and holistic wellness. For reservations, call 04 556 6666.
The National
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Mena's 50 Best Restaurants 2025: Orfali Bros tops list for third time, Dubai leads with 18 spots
Dubai's Orfali Bros has been named the best restaurant in the Middle East and North Africa region for the third time in a row, at a glittering ceremony held at Erth Hotel in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday evening. The Michelin-starred restaurant run by three Syrian brothers clinched the top spot at the 2025 Mena's 50 Best Restaurants, which is organised by the 50 Best group. Venues from Dubai also took the second and third spots, by way of Tresind Studio and Kinoya. Commenting on the achievement, Tresind Studio's chef, Himanshu Saini, says: 'We are proud to have our grounds in a region that celebrates cultural roots and has immense talent that pushes boundaries in every sense. This award is a testament to our team's hard work, creativity and passion.' Khufu's in Egypt and Ossiano in Dubai round up the top five. Japanese-inspired restaurant 3 Fils, which topped the first Mena list in 2022, landed at No 14 this year. Eighteen of the restaurants in the list are in Dubai, including Michelin-starred Row on 45, Smoked Room and 11 Woodfire, while Abu Dhabi also has a strong showing by way of Niri, Marmellata Bakery and LPM. Last year, there were 20 restaurants from the UAE among the top 50, a number that rose to 21 this year. Among the other countries, Egypt led the charge with a total of eight restaurants on the list; Jordan had six; Saudi Arabia and Morocco had five apiece; Lebanon and Bahrain had two restaurants each; and Tunisia had one entry (see full list below). New restaurants among the top 50 include: Niri and Marmellata Bakery both from Abu Dhabi; Smoked Room, TakaHisa and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal all from Dubai; La Grande Brasserie by Helene Darroze and Le Petit Cornichon both from Marrakesh; and Aseeb from Riyadh. Among the special awards handed out, Table 3 in Casablanca, Morocco, won the One to Watch award; Carmen Rueda Hernandez of Dubai's Brix dessert cafe won Mena's Best Pastry Chef; Bahrain's Tala Bashmi was given the Chef's Choice award; and Omar Shihab of Boca Dubai took home the Icon award – Boca was also the Sustainable Restaurant awardee. Earlier this year, Ossiano at Atlantis The Palm in Dubai received the Art of Hospitality Award, which celebrates restaurants that provide exemplary service; and UAE-based Yasmina Hayek of Em Sherif was named Mena's Best Female Chef. The ranking is based on the recommendations of more than 250 voters, made up of anonymous restaurant experts, including chefs, restaurateurs and well-travelled gourmets from 19 countries across the region. There is no set criteria for the votes, say the organisers, and 'what constitutes best is up to each over to decide. Of course, the quality of food is going to be central, as is the service – but the style of both, the surroundings, atmosphere and indeed the price level are each more or less important for each different individual.' Referring to the 'challenging times in the region", William Drew, director of content for Mena's 50 Best Restaurants, said: '50 Best is always aimed at bringing people together through food. We firmly believe that gastronomic cross-border collaboration and co-operation can lead to greater mutual cultural understanding.'
