10 fabulous things to do in the UAE this July

Life

Staying in the emirates this summer? These are the reservations to make, the things to do and the events to bookmark in the UAE this July…

If you’re not travelling this summer, there’s endless activites to look forward to to keep your schedule full and your creativity at an all time high. From elevated new restaurants to chic Pilates studios, here are the best things to do in the UAE this July.

Check out a refined new Sunday brunch

Bringing a taste of La Dolce Vita to Jumeirah Mina Al Salam is Cala Vista. While alfresco dining may be off the agenda, head chef Luca and manager Pasquale have curated a new relaxed Italian Sunday brunch, reminiscent of family Sundays in their native Italy. Available from 12.30pm to 4pm, enjoy sharing starters, theatrically cooked pasta mains, and a collection of indulgent homemade desserts. A roaming band adds to the lively ambience. Packages start from AED375.

@calavistadubai

Create your own permanent jewellery in the capital

It’s already a popular spot for beautiful, personal permanent jewellery in Dubai, and now Aglaiia has landed in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall. The modern and minimalistic space invites you to create bespoke jewellery in white gold, yellow gold or rose gold, customising it with diamonds and gemstones and permanently fixing it for you. Bookings can be made via Fresha, with sessions from AED45.

@aglaiiapermanentjewelry

Catch up over a new ladies’ night at J1 Beach

We know you’ve likely discovered the fabulous array of daytime dining and high-octane imbibing at J1 Beach’s gorgeous hotspots. But there’s a new reason to make plans around this exciting Dubai destination after dark with the launch of Gitano’s new ladies’ night. Every Thursday, there’s complimentary drinks at the bar for ladies from 8pm to midnight, perfect for mid-week get-togethers.

@gitano.dubai

Stretch it out at a new Pilates studio

A self-described curated space for body and soul, get stronger, leaner and more flexible at Soulmvnt, new in Dubai Design District. Opt for the Lagree class for next-level strength training, or try the high-energy mat Pilates session for maximum impact. Lower-tempo classes come in the form of yoga and sculpt. Classes start from AED169 for Lagree, and AED129 for all other sessions.

@soulmvnt

See an iconic popstar perform in the capital

One of the biggest pop icons on the planet, JLO touches down in the UAE capital with her Up All Night world tour on July 29 for one night only at the Etihad Arena. Fans of the hitmaker behind era-defining tracks like On The Floor, Get Right and Love Don’t Cost A Thing can expect an electrifying performance of her biggest hits from across her legendary career. Tickets start from AED295.

@etihadarena.ae

Stretch out summer days with a night swim

The latest craze to sweep through Dubai this summer is night swims – and they’re taking over some of our favourite beach clubs and pools across the city. There’s options to suit all styles – from loofty rooftop pools to laidback luxe beach clubs, but for a taste of Ibiza, we’ll be booking the Noches de Verano night swim at Balearic-inspired Tagomago. Taking place every Friday and Saturday, sip, swim and bask in the moonlight, with an AED150 minimum spend.

@tagomagodubai

Make reservations at Dubai’s newest restaurant

An institution on London’s dining scene since 1968, Mr Chow is now renowned worldwide for its signature take on contemporary Beijing cuisine. With restaurants in Beverly Hills, New York, Miami and Riyadh – its now landed in Dubai. Adding to the gourmet cuisine scene in DIFC, Mr Chow is now welcoming guests to discover why it’s known and loved by A-Listers across the globe in Gate Village 3. Order the handmade noodles for the theatrical presentation and the iconic Beijing duck.

@mrchowdifc

Shop vintage pieces at the new So Much Trouble store

Dubai’s premier in-store experience for all things vintage and designer, So Much Trouble has a new home at Atlantis, The Palm. Inside, you’ll find a curated edit of founder Dominique Laird’s most beloved brands, as well as handpicked pieces it’s impossible to find anywhere else. Perfect for a day of retail therapy.

@somuchtroubledubai

Check-in for a relaxing retreat on the shores of Ghantoot

Tucked away along Abu Dhabi’s coast, Anantara Santorini offers a serene, adults-only escape inspired by the Greek Isles. With the Santorini Couple’s Serenity package, couples can enjoy sea-view luxury, wellness breakfasts, private yoga, and signature spa experiences designed for total relaxation. Rates start from AED2,950.

@anantarasantorini

Relax and re-centre with full moon yoga

Beyond Wellness are behind some of the UAE’s premier wellness experiences, with their viral floating wellness sessions taking place across the emirates. But they also offer an array of other classes – from sound healing and meditation to yoga and sculpt classes. On July 8, they will be hosting a full moon yoga and sound healing session at 7.30pm at Raffles The Palm. Bask in the serenity as you gather under the Capricorn moon. Sessions are AED199 + VAT, with yoga mats provided.

@beyondwellnessdxb

yasmine.zahran