An introvert's guide to Dubai: The best places to relax, read and recharge
If you want fast-paced, then Dubai has got it all. Packed-out attractions, incredible parties and bustling malls, this city truly never sleeps.
But what if that fast-paced vibe isn't your cup of tea? Where can you enjoy a quiet lunch, read a book or sip drinks at a bar where you can actually hear your friend speak?
Knowing our way in and out of the city means we know just the right spots where you can unwind after a long day (or just enjoy some me time). From lively hangouts to serene retreats, this beautiful city has something for every mood. Trust us, we've got you covered.
From cool restaurants to cosy libraries, museums, parks and bars, these are some of the best spots to live your best introverted life in Dubai.
Things to do in Dubai, as an introvert
Get breakfast at BRIX Café
Chill outside at Brix Café (Credit: Brix Café)
Located at the charming, old-school Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 2, with its rich wooden floors and artsy décor, the dreamy BRIX Café offers beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf.
For that perfect quaint-fishing-town vibe, grab an outdoor table overlooking the harbour – just be sure to arrive early to grab the best spot.
Open daily, 8am-11:30pm. Jumeirah Fishing Harbour. brixdessert.com (054 515 7861)
Brunch at Stomping Grounds
(Credit: Stomping Grounds)
You can enjoy all the city vibes without getting caught up in the hustle and bustle here at this indie coffee shop.
*Perfect* for a casual brekkie, the industrial space (dark woods, mismatched chairs, exposed concrete) is bang-on-trend all while remaining warm and cosy, with the smell of freshly brewed coffee lingering in the air.
Start your day here with the three eggs croffle Benedict or a green shakshuka and cheese pide or just build your own plate. The best part? It's an all-day breakfast here.
Whether you're catching up with a friend or simply relaxing with a charming garden view, this is one of the most perfect spots for a meal with earthy vibes.
Open daily, 7:30am-11:30pm. Jumeirah, stompinggrounds.ae (04 344 4451)
Lunch at itadaku
With light wood furniture and soft lighting, as soon as you step into itadaku you'll feel at peace.
If you didn't know already, the Japanese are masters of creating calm, whether it's at home or public spaces and that same sense of tranquility is at the heart of this family-run, authentic Japanese restaurant.
Featuring the cutest little bonsai trees, minimalist design and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs slicing fish as if it's butter, you'll feel zen in no time.
Enjoy à la carte items like sushis, grills from the Robata or the seasonal Dhs498 Omakase menu. All in all, expect a peaceful dining experience.
Tue-Sun, noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm. Wasl Vita, Jumeirah, itadaku.ae (04 223 6122).
Chill at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library
Find your very own corner of calm here at Mohammed bin Rashid Library. The iconic library sprawls a sweet 54,000 sq m – that's half the size of Deira City Centre mall. Located in Dubai Creek's Al Jaddaf, the spot is a direct 10-minute walk from the Creek metro station.
It's free to enter and offers free WiFi, with dedicated spaces on every floor featuring charging points, large desks, lounge chairs and bean bags.
Free entry. Mon-Thu, Sat, 9am-9pm. Fri, 2pm-9pm. Sun, closed. Al Jaddaf. mbrl.ae/ (800 627523).
Work remotely at Nasab
Nasab is a co-working space located in the residential area of Al Barari offering up a vintage vibe.
Spread across two storeys, this rustic-style space features towering bookshelves, wooden furniture and grey concrete flooring, all complemented by lush greenery.
As you work here during the day, you'll enjoy the changing shades of sunlight streaming in from various angles. Step outside, and you'll find rows of palm trees lining a winding path that leads to the pool lounge area.
Sign up for a day of working here for Dhs170. You can use the spot from 9am to 10pm, access the gym, the steam and sauna and the pool along with free WiFi. Feel free to use printers, scanners, enjoy complimentary black coffee and water.
Dhs170. Open Mon-Fri, 9am-6:30pm. Sat-Sun, 9am-5pm. Nasab Dubai, Koa, Al Barari. nasabdubai.com (04 886 8182)
Enjoy nature at SEVA Wellness Centre & Cafe
Visiting this vegan eatery, wellness centre and concept store feels like stepping into India's lost city of Hampi.
Plenty of trees, creepers and bushes flank the outdoor tables on either side, while indoors you'll find libraries, stone flooring, linen upholstery and furniture made of actual wooden bark.
If you're looking to experience the popular yoga culture of India's Auroville or Hampi, you should pay them a visit.
While you're there, treat your insides to a bit of goodness and wolf down a 'liver vitality' salad featuring wild greens, roasted beetroot, charred mandarins and spirulina tahini or the grounded khichdi (Indian rice dish with mung beans cooked in spices elevated by kale and homemade coconut-based yoghurt). Filled with vibrant dishes like kimchi and rice noodles, tacos, zucchini pappardelle and other delicacies from across the world, this vegan menu is anything but boring.
Open daily, 8am-10pm. Jumeirah Beach Road. sevaexperience.com (056 534 2899)
Picnic at Zabeel Park
Credit: CanvaPro
As one of the largest parks in the city, there's plenty of room to claim your own private spot on the grass. If you love the outdoors, you'll appreciate quietly relaxing under a tree. With birds chirping, leaves rustling endlessly and the cool weather right now, there's no better place to unwind.
Prepare a charcuterie board, some mini sandwiches and pack loads of water before heading down to Zabeel Park for a cute picnic. If you forgot to pack something, you can pick up a karak tea and snacks from the on-site cafeterias.
Instead, if you're up for a workout, go on a jog through the rolling greens of Zabeel Park.
Dhs5. Mon-Thu, 8am-10pm. Fri, Sat, Sun, 8am-11pm. Zabeel Area, near Max Metro Station.
Enjoy some me time at Al Mamzar Beach Park
Credit: Al Mamzar Park Beach
As you enter the park and stroll along the left, you'll slowly reach the side of the park that shares a border with a 1km-long, quiet stretch of coastline dotted by patio tables that are thoughtfully spaced out.
The park has plenty of manicured lawns, large trees offering lots of shade, three stunning pools, an outdoor space for barbecues, rentable chalets, food kiosks and an open amphitheatre which often hosts entertainment.
It's the perfect spot to spend an entire day reconnecting with nature and chasing some quiet time.
Dhs5. Open daily, 8pm-10pm. Al Mamzar Beach Park (04 296 6201).
Stroll through the Dubai Water Canal
(Credit: Canva)
A nice way to spend an evening is by taking a walk at the Dubai water canal. The 3.2-km-long waterway traverses from Dubai Creek through Business Bay all the way to the Arabian Gulf.
You can cycle, run or walk through one of the five pedestrian bridges each offering a beautiful vantage point. Or you can hop on an abra and sail along the canal's calm waters. For walks or jogs, head to the Dubai Water Canal footbridge. The best way to visit is by arriving in your car or getting a cab.
Open daily, 24/7. Dubai Water Canal FoodBridge (600 555559).
Museums and galleries to explore
Explore Dubai's history at Al Shindagha Museum
Credit: Supplied
Al Shindagha Museum is home to multiple heritage buildings, including the former residential quarters of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, a former ruler of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
Here you can step back in time (specifically to the early 20th century), learn about Dubai's maritime traditions and delve into the cultural roots of the Dubai that we know today.
There are 21 buildings, each telling its own story about a different slice of history. You can wander through them all at your own pace, soaking it in without feeling rushed.
And when your feet need a break, just find a bench overlooking Dubai Creek and old Dubai – it's the perfect spot to rest and take in the views.
Dhs50. Open daily, 10am-8pm. Dubai Creek. alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae (80033222).
Spend an evening at XVA Café & Restaurant
Credit: XVA Gallery
Tucked away in the historical neighbourhood of Al Fahidi in between sikkas (narrow alleyways), this art gallery and cafe, at 100 years old, is literally a slice of history.
In the lovely courtyard, you'll find old trees, wooden furniture and antique knick-knacks. You can grab a cuppa, enjoy some vegetarian dishes and take a stroll through the art gallery.
It's the perfect place to drench yourself in the charm of Old Arabia. Plus, it's pet-friendly so feel free to get your furry bestie over.
Open daily, 7am-10pm. XVA Gallery. Al Fahidi Neighbourhood. xvagallery.com (04 353 5383)
Grab a pint at Fibber Magee's
Sure, it might not have a reputation for being the quietest spot in town, but hear us out.
This no-frills, authentic Irish pub, tucked behind Sheikh Zayed Road, is full of nooks, crannies and mismatched furniture and feels worlds away from its central Dubai location. It's not shiny, it's not fancy – but it's pubby, laid-back and most importantly, snug. It's easy to find a corner to chill with your besties for hours on end and that's why we love it. Oh, and if cottage-core vibes are your thing, you'll feel right at home.
Happy hours run from 1pm to 7pm Sundays to Fridays. Love a good deal? Take advantage of the Saturday brunches, business lunches, Sunday roasts or any one of the plenty of offers of food and beverages.
Open daily, 8am-3am. Saeed Tower One, Sheikh Zayed Road, fibbersdubai.com (04 332 2400).
Check out Issei Dubai
Choose an outdoor spot by the glass windows at Issei Dubai, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the city while being surrounded by lush greenery – you won't regret it. It'll be like you're enjoying a drink up in the sky.
Issei Dubai is a Peruvian-Japanese-flavoured restaurant on the 27th floor of the Radisson Hotel in DAMAC Hills. This Nikkei restaurant offers great food, unmatched views in a beautiful setting and creative drinks you'll remember long after your last bite.
The brand is known for its creative mixed drinks that pay homage to both Peru and Japan in flavour and mix. Ingredients include green tea, egg whites and Japanese juniper-based blends.
Sun-Thu, 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat, 5pm-2am. Issei Dubai, Radisson Hotel DAMAC Hills, @isseidubai (04 879 1111).
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