Ultimate UAE weekend guide: Brunches, pool parties, staycations and more

Looking to upgrade your weekend plans? Whether you're in the mood for sultry Spanish vibes, a glam indoor brunch, or an all-inclusive escape that comes with bonus art cred, we've rounded up the most exciting things to do in and around Dubai. From poolside family parties and elevated spa sessions to AR cricket and immersive digital art, this weekend offers something for every kind of mood — playful, indulgent, or just plain fun. Here's the list:
Kick off summer with a pool party
Celebrate the end of the school year with a family-friendly day out at the Yas Acres Summer Break Pool Party. Happening on Saturday, 21 June, the all-day event promises poolside fun, food truck bites, and entertainment for all ages — from arts and crafts to balloon twisting and face painting. Don't miss the artistic swimming performance by Oceana, sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Where: Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Acres, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 21 June 2025 | 10am – 7pm
Price: Dh150 per adult (Dh100 redeemable on F&B) | Free for kids under 11
Booking: Walk-ins welcome or contact the club for details
Go underground this weekend
Looking to escape the heat and dive into something sultry? LY-LA, the hidden speakeasy beneath ALAYA, turns up the weekend vibes every Friday and Saturday with back-to-back DJ sets, luxe beverages, and late-night energy. Kick things off on Friday with DJ Gregorio's nostalgic House grooves, then close out your weekend with DJ Fedde's soulful mix of Afro, Organic, and Tech House. LY-LA is where summer weekends go to stay out late, so what are you waiting for?
Where: LY-LA, beneath ALAYA, DIFC
When: Friday & Saturday | 10pm – 3am
Reservations: +971 56 680 0430 | reservations@lyladubai.com
Spanish night
TATEL Dubai brings back its iconic Noche TATEL every Thursday from 8.30pm till late — a fiery fusion of Madrid-style nightlife, live music, flamenco dancers, and bold Spanish cuisine. Expect electric performances by Keko Fontana and guitarist Fernando Gutiérrez, a vibrant crowd, and dishes like tuna tartare, seafood arroz del señoret, and their famous Basque cheesecake. Whether you're after a laid-back dinner or a lively night out, this Downtown hotspot delivers a dose of Spain with every bite and beat.
Where: TATEL, Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection, Downtown Dubai
When: Every Thursday, from 8.30 PM onwards
Reservations: Call 04 215 2121
Beachside summer staycation
If you're staying in the city this summer, Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach has launched a limited-time staycation offer perfect for families, couples, or friends. Book an Executive Room or a spacious Two-Bedroom Apartment and enjoy a complimentary Half Board upgrade, plus up to 2,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points per stay. Guests also get 20 per cent off food and drinks at three popular outlets: Fogueira's Brazilian churrasco with skyline views, wholesome bites at Jones the Grocer, and laid-back fun at Speakeasy Dubai.
Where: Delta Hotels by Marriott, Jumeirah Beach Residence
Offer: Complimentary Half Board + bonus Bonvoy points + 20% off F&B
Bookings: Available at best available rate directly through the hotel
Saturday brunch goes luxe
Saturdays with Eva is your chic indoor escape this summer — an elevated brunch experience at Eva Beach Club, The Club, Palm Jumeirah. From 1pm to 5pm, indulge in refined dishes like oysters, burrata, truffle pizza, and Wagyu short ribs, topped off with handcrafted drinks and dreamy pistachio ice cream. Stay for the After Brunch Party from 5 to 8pm, where the energy amps up with vibrant music and a glam crowd.
Where: Eva Beach Club, The Club, Palm Jumeirah
When: Every Saturday, Brunch 1pm–5pm | After-party 5–8pm
Packages: Dh395 (soft), Dh495 (house), Dh575 (premium)
Reservations: Call 04 510 4800 or WhatsApp 056 506 4122
All-inclusive luxury meets immersive art
Looking for a getaway that blends beachside bliss with artistic wonder? Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island is offering an exclusive summer package that includes complimentary access to teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi —the region's newest immersive digital art experience—when you book a minimum two-night all-inclusive stay. Guests can explore 17,000 sqm of interactive, ever-evolving installations by the acclaimed Tokyo-based collective teamLab, then unwind at the luxury resort with gourmet dining, spa indulgence, family-friendly fun, and panoramic Arabian Gulf views.
Where: Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Offer: Stay two nights or more and enjoy complimentary adult access to teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Bookings: Email reservation.saadiyat@rixos.com
Game on!
For a high-energy outing that blends play, food, and friendly competition, head to Tiger Strikes at Megaplex Dubai. From the UAE's first augmented reality cricket experience (WIKIT) to neon-lit bowling, digital darts, and pool tables, there's plenty to keep both kids and adults entertained. Refuel with a menu packed with crowd-pleasers like Cheesy Bacon & Jalapeño Bites, Loaded Nachos, and the signature double-patty Siberian Tiger burger.
Where: Tiger Strikes, Megaplex Dubai
What: AR cricket, bowling, digital darts, pool, and elevated casual dining
Get a glow up
Step into ReFIVE Spa, the award-winning wellness haven at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, for a summer-ready glow-up that's anything but ordinary. With premium treatments like the collagen-boosting Natura Bissé facial, a detoxifying Voya Mud Wrap, or the Signature Hammam experience, ReFIVE offers serious skin TLC with a luxury twist. Add bamboo massages with CBD oils and refreshing ice therapy sessions, and you've got the perfect wellness escape.

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