UAE Weekend Escapes: Eat, Play & Chill
<p>Looking for the perfect weekend plans in the UAE? Whether you’re craving culinary adventures, outdoor fun, or a chilled-out escape with the family (furry friends included!), there’s no shortage of options to make your weekend unforgettable. From bustling city hotspots to serene desert retreats, Dubai and beyond have something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best weekend experiences.</p><p><strong>1. Brunch Beyond Borders at Toshi</strong><br>If sushi, noodles, and live grills sound like a dream brunch, Toshi’s Brunch & Beyond at Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai delivers exactly that. Every Saturday, guests can explore flavours from across the globe while kids enjoy a dedicated zone with games, mini cinema, and a buffet made just for them. Don’t miss the dessert corner featuring an array of international sweets. It’s a brunch that caters to both adults and children alike.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Dh429 (house drinks), Dh229 (soft drinks), Dh129 (kids 5–10), under four dine free<br><strong>When:</strong> Saturdays, 1pm–4pm<br><strong>Where:</strong> Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai</p><p><strong>2. Paws & Purrs at MYAMI Beach</strong><br>Treat your pet to a weekend getaway at MYAMI, the stylish Palm Jumeirah beachfront spot where dogs and cats have their own gourmet menu. Sip cocktails, enjoy the sea breeze, and let your furry friend try treats like Pup-Pop Chicken or Meow Medley. Bal Harbour Beach access makes it ideal for morning walks or sunset chill sessions.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Pet menu from Dh35<br><strong>When:</strong> 8am–midnight<br><strong>Where:</strong> West Beach, Palm Jumeirah</p><p><strong>3. Diwali Magic at Riverland Dubai</strong><br>Celebrate Diwali in style at Riverland Dubai with cultural performances, live Dhol beats, sitar solos, and fireworks at 9.30pm from October 17–19. Kids and adults can enjoy henna art, festive treats, and discounted access to Motiongate, Legoland, and other attractions, making this a vibrant weekend for the entire family.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Dh99 (one park), Dh149 (two parks) + 25% retail discount<br><strong>When:</strong> Oct 17–19; fireworks at 9.30pm</p><p><strong>4. Desert Bliss at Bab Al Shams</strong><br>Escape the city and unwind at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort. With an infinity pool surrounded by golden dunes and a relaxed desert vibe, guests can use Dh120 in dining credit while soaking up the sun. Perfect for families or solo visitors seeking serenity.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Dh450 per adult (with Dh120 F&B credit), Dh175 per child<br><strong>When:</strong> Until March<br><strong>Where:</strong> Bab Al Shams Desert Resort</p><p><strong>5. Sweet Indulgence at Kinara by Vikas Khanna</strong><br>This Diwali, enjoy the perfect blend of Indian haute cuisine and artisanal chocolate at Kinara. From October 17–21, each evening features a themed chocolate treat alongside a curated five-night set menu. Thousands of marigolds and twinkling lights enhance the festive ambience.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Dh350<br><strong>When:</strong> Oct 17–21, 6.30pm–10.30pm<br><strong>Where:</strong> Kinara by Vikas Khanna, JA Lake View Hotel</p><p><strong>6. Live the Beirut Vibe at Antika</strong><br>Experience the energy of Beirut in DIFC at Antika, with live Arabic music, theatrical performances, and a midnight menu featuring saj wraps, mezze, and grilled kebabs. Open Wednesday to Sunday until 3am, it’s perfect for a weekend night out that lingers in your memory.</p><p><strong>When:</strong> Wed–Sun, 9pm–3am<br><strong>Where:</strong> 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, DIFC</p><p><strong>7. VR Adventures at Battleworld</strong><br>Get your adrenaline fix at VR Battleworld with immersive experiences including zombie battles, haunted houses, and galactic missions. Ideal for friends, couples, or team-building activities, this is where screen time turns into action-packed fun.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Dh119 per person (Fri–Sun)<br><strong>Where:</strong> Dubai (Al Quoz, JVC), Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah</p><p><strong>8. Indian Flavours at Armani/Amal</strong><br>Enjoy a sophisticated Indian lunch at Armani/Amal in the Burj Khalifa. The family-style menu includes tandoori tiger prawns, daal makhani, and gulab jamun, served alongside breathtaking Downtown views.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Dh260 per person<br><strong>When:</strong> Fri–Sun, 12.30pm–3pm<br><strong>Where:</strong> Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa</p><p><strong>9. Kids’ Pizza Masterclass at The Coop House</strong><br>For little chefs aged 4–13, The Coop House offers hands-on pizza-making workshops. Kids knead, top, and bake their pizzas, receive a chef’s hat and apron, and even enjoy a burger post-class. A fun, creative weekend activity that sparks culinary curiosity.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Dh75<br><strong>When:</strong> Oct 19, 10am–midnight<br><strong>Where:</strong> The Coop House, Mirdif City Centre</p><p><strong>10. Global Village: A World of Fun</strong><br>Explore the 30th season of Global Village with international cuisine, performances, games, and budget-friendly shopping. A perfect destination for families looking for a colorful, immersive experience.</p><p><strong>11. Sunday Roast at Crafty Fox</strong><br>Cap off your weekend with a classic Sunday roast at Crafty Fox, featuring beef, chicken, or vegetarian options, Yorkshire pudding, roasties, and gravy. Scenic views of Yas Links Golf Club make it a relaxed dining choice without the need for golf skills.</p><p><strong>Price:</strong> Varies<br><strong>Where:</strong> Yas Links Golf Club</p><p>From cultural celebrations to foodie adventures, VR thrills to pet-friendly beach days, the UAE weekend scene has it all. So plan ahead, gather your friends and family, and enjoy an exciting, fulfilling weekend — there’s never a dull moment!</p>