24 spectacular things to do in the UAE in November

From ultimate spots to celebrate special occasions to exciting new offerings to indulge in, here are the things to do in the UAE in November

The Permit Room

The Permit Room, a new Indian Resto Lounge at the Majestic City Retreat Hotel in Dubai, offers a blend of India’s coastal culinary delights and pop-culture influences. With an emphasis on sustainability, the venue serves up delicious seafood and vegetarian dishes, using homegrown herbs and eco-friendly materials, all set to the sounds of an in-house DJ and live music. Spanning over 4,000 square feet, it features indoor and outdoor dining spaces, as well as a pet-friendly terrace.

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Bull & Bear by Marc Hardiman

Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria DIFC is kicking off a new chapter with Chef Marc Hardiman at the helm, bringing his creative flair and focus on sustainability to the table. The menus are packed with stories from Hardiman’s life, featuring dishes such as truffle-loaded chicken wings and a playful spin on After Eight mints. Guests can choose from omnivore, herbivore, and bespoke menus, each showcasing bold flavours, UAE-grown produce, and Hardiman’s artistic reinterpretation of European cuisine with global influences.

Email bullandbear@waldorfastoria.com.

Address Downtown

Book a spot at Terra e Mare Brunch at Address Downtown for a fresh Mediterranean dining experience with sustainable ingredients and farm-fresh UAE vegetables. Every Saturday, you can tuck into seafood towers, roasted Muscovy duck, and more, all while enjoying live entertainment in a chic setting.

Every Saturday, from 6pm-10pm. From AED390 per person. Call +9714 436 8888. 

Flying Elephant

Dubai’s new speakeasy inspired by Bombay’s 1950s and 60s ‘aunty bars’, has opened its doors at Novotel Dubai Al Barsha. The bar offers an immersive experience combining mysticism and nostalgia, featuring a bespoke menu crafted in collaboration with celebrated mixologist Yangdup Lama. Guests can enjoy a unique selection of concoctions and mocktails that evoke India’s rich history, alongside contemporary Indian dishes.

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W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

Ladies, Fridays at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is an event you won’t want to miss! Enjoy an evening of delectable food and beverages, set against the backdrop of Yas Island’s most stylish venue. For just AED85, indulge in a specially curated drink selection and enjoy free-flowing beverages all night long. It’s the perfect way for the ladies to unwind and kick off the weekend in style!

W Lounge. Friday, from 6-11pm. Unlimited beverages when purchasing a specially curated drink. Japanese inspired Menu starting from AED40. Call +971 2 656 0000, or email wabudhabi.dining@whotels.com.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Celebrate World Cucumber Day at the grand opening of The CucumBar on November 22nd and 23rd! Step into a world of mystery with The Cucumber Conundrum — an immersive experience where you’ll work to solve clues and puzzles, guided by a talented cast of international actors. Enjoy a specially crafted three-course dinner, paired with refreshing cucumber concoctions, as you immerse yourself in a story of suspense and intrigue. Can you uncover the secrets before the night comes to a close?

AED350 per person including a 3-course dinner and paired beverages. Call +9714 511 7373.

Arrazuna

Arrazuna Dubai’s newly refreshed menu presents an exquisite array of Middle Eastern flavours, drawing on the culinary traditions of Syria, Lebanon, Iran, and the Gulf region. The updated à la carte menu features mezze favourites such as Hummus and the Mouhammara, alongside satisfying mains which include Lamb Tagine with dried fruits and Chicken Pastilla wrapped in flaky pastry. For those who love the grill, the Pistachio Kebab and Grilled Pink Sea Bream are must-tries. To finish, guests can delight in desserts including Kazandibi with pistachio ice cream, traditional Umm Ali, a selection of baklava with Pistachio Sarma, and the signature Arrazuna Kunafa, layered with Akkawi cheese, rose petals, and pistachio powder.

Call +9714 666 1617 or email reservations@thelinkdubai.com. Click here to book now. Visit website.

Ronin

Ronin’s Teppanyaki Live Cooking experience offers an interactive and immersive dining journey, where guests can watch Chef SK prepare exquisite dishes right before their eyes. The menu features a variety of high-quality ingredients, including A5 Wagyu Sirloin, Giant Prawns, and Black Angus Ribeye, all cooked to perfection on a sizzling hot stone or grill. The live cooking style allows guests to engage with the chef, adding a personal touch to the experience. Don’t miss the Wagyu Tenderloin “Toban Yaki” and Ise Ebi Giant Prawn with yuzu garlic butter.

Call +9714 455 9989 or email flh.dining@fivehotelsandresorts.com. Visit website

Paradiso

Gather your friends after work and head to Paradiso for Queen of Hearts Ladies’ Night, the perfect way to unwind on a Thursday. With costumed characters, a magician performing rare tricks, and an upbeat crowd, it’s a night designed for a fun break from the weekday routine.

Thursday, from 7-11pm. AED200 for 3 tapas and 4 drinks. Call +9714 455 9989 or email flh.dining@fivehotelsandresorts.com. Visit website.

Cielo

Cielo at FIVE LUXE JBR presents a Mediterranean-inspired menu in an idyllic beachfront location, perfect for a leisurely lunch or sunset gathering. The menu includes favourites like Gambas Al Ajillo, wood-fired pizzas, and Wagyu Ribeye, all served in a stunning setting with panoramic views of Playa Pacha. For AED459 per person, guests can unwind with a 45-minute massage at the award-winning ReFIVE Spa, enjoy full-day access to the Playa Pacha Pool & Indoor Spa Pool, and indulge in a delicious 3-course lunch at Cielo—offering the perfect combination of relaxation and exquisite dining.

Call +9714 275 9999 or email flh.dining@fivehotelsandresorts.com. Visit website

CÉ LA VI

Indulge in an award-winning lunch experience with two options: a three-course meal for AED140 or a four-course meal for AED180. The menu features a refined selection of dishes, such as the signature Burrata Salad, the Salmon Avocado Maki, and the Duck Breast Roll. For mains, diners can enjoy Soy Salmon with Brown Butter, Black Truffle “Sushi Rice” Risotto, or the signature Miso Black Cod. To end on a sweet note, the gluten- and dairy-free Strawberry Basil Tart offers a refreshing finish.

Monday to Friday, from 12pm-3pm. Starting from AED140. Call +9714 582 6111 or email reservation-dxb@celavi.com.

Sohum Wellness Sanctuary

Sohum Wellness Sanctuary has launched in Dubai to offer a serene escape that blends ancient wisdom with modern living for holistic healing. The Sanctuary features a luxurious retreat atmosphere with bespoke Ayurvedic treatments, diverse yoga styles, and unique healing modalities, all designed to cater to individual wellness needs. In addition, the on-site plant-based restaurant, TAAMA, focuses on innovative, root-driven cuisine, while a bespoke membership plan is set to launch soon, further enhancing the exclusive wellness experience.

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Sunset 55º

Sunset 55°, the beachfront lounge at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, has reopened with a fresh bohemian aesthetic, featuring cosy lounge areas, fire pits, and a picturesque spot for sunset photos overlooking Palm Jumeirah. The revamped venue now includes a DJ booth and a stylish bar, as well as two exclusive VIP nooks with double day beds and private fire pits for a more intimate experience. The new menu offers a selection of enticing dishes like Wagyu Beef Burger, Bang Bang Prawns, and fresh sushi.

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Café 302

Café 302’s breakfast menu has something for everyone, from the Full English with eggs, bacon, and sausages to the Lifestyle with a lighter egg white omelette, fruits, and yoghurt. The Middle Eastern-inspired Local includes za’atar croissant, foul Mesdames, and halloumi, while the vegan Sunshine offers scrambled tofu, vegan sausage, and chia muesli. Alongside breakfast, the Best of Café 302 deal features a two-course business lunch with a starter, main, and drink, perfect for a midday break.

Breakfast: Available daily, from 10:30am to 1:00pm. AED 75 per person. Best of Café 302: Available daily, from 12pm-10pm. Visit website.

Feels Café

New Balance is bringing a new experience to Feels Café at Kite Beach! Visitors can enjoy an oceanfront treadmill session, setting the perfect pace for the Dubai Fitness Challenge. After a workout, treat yourself to the limited-edition Fresh Foam-inspired smoothie—made with all-natural blue spirulina to match the new Fresh Foam x 1080v14 running shoes.

Until November 2.

Project Chaiwala

Got a flight this month? Drop by Project Chaiwala at the Dubai International Airport, where you can indulge in authentic Karak chai across all concourses in Terminal 3. Discover exciting new flavours, such as the Molten Karak and Karak Arabia, alongside a selection of savoury snacks including the Desi Smashmosa and delicious sweets.

OKKU

Join OKKU Dubai for their renowned Bluefin Tuna Cutting Ceremony at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah. The evening will feature expert chefs artfully preparing fresh Bluefin Tuna from Japan, complemented by a special menu highlighting the rich flavours of this premium fish. With live music by a DJ and percussionist, diners can savour unique cuts and enjoy an energetic atmosphere.

November 1, from 7 pm. Call +971 4 666 1566 or email reservations@okkudxb.com.

Akira Back

If you’re looking for a memorable night out, Chef Akira Back offers two unique dining experiences. Join the Batafurai Monday Ladies Night, where you can enjoy two hours of unlimited selected beverages and a selection of sharing plates. For those seeking something special, the exclusive nine-course tasting menu features seasonal delights paired with carefully curated beverages by a sommelier.

Batafurai Monday Ladies Night: Monday, from 7-11pm. AED250 for ladies and AED399 for gents. Tasting Menu: Tuesday-Sunday, from 7-9pm. AED649 per person for nine-course menu (food only). Visit website.

Fairmont The Palm

Fairmont The Palm is hosting its Golden Afternoon Tea, offering a luxurious selection of savoury and sweet delights presented with a lavish golden touch. Inspired by the region’s cultural heritage, the afternoon tea features exquisite dishes such as foie gras with golden brioche and smoked salmon with caviar, alongside impressive sweet treats including salted caramel éclair and raspberry vanilla cheesecake.

Daily, from 12pm-5pm. AED225 per person. Call +9714 457 3457.

Sonara Desert Camp

Sonara Desert Camp invites families to a spellbinding Halloween celebration on Saturday, 2nd November, with an array of enchanting activities under the stars. Young guests can enjoy face painting, camel trick-or-treating, and spooky cookie decorating, all in a stunning desert setting. As the sun sets over the dunes, live entertainment and a Halloween adventure will bring the evening to life with music, dancing, and a touch of magic.

AED990 per adult. AED490 per child between 6 to 12 years old. Call +97150 336 7909.

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is set to welcome diners for a special culinary event with Chef Will Goldfarb, renowned as The World’s Best Pastry Chef, from 15-17 November 2024. This exclusive experience features a seven-course tasting menu that combines sweet and savoury elements at The Lotus Lounge, accommodating only 40 diners each evening. With over 30 years of experience in some of the world’s top kitchens, Chef Goldfarb is known for his creative desserts and playful culinary style. His innovative approach and artistry in desserts have earned him numerous accolades, including recognition on Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Pastry.

The Lotus Lounge from 15-17 November 2024, from 7pm-10pm. AED250 per adult. Call +971 (0)4 567 8304 or email restaurants.dubai@anantara.com.

Flow Kitchen

Get ready for a delightful family-friendly brunch experience as Flow Kitchen unveils its much-anticipated Golden Ticket Brunch on November 2! This weekend brunch presents a fun and engaging dining experience for all ages, with a mouthwatering selection of gourmet international dishes made fresh to order and live cooking stations featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Saturday, 1-4pm. AED250 per person including soft beverages. AED399 per person including house beverages. AED499 per person including bubbly. AED99 per child. Call +9714 457 3388 or email palm.dining@fairmont.com.

Gigi

Gigi has launched its new Beach House at J1 Beach in Dubai, showcasing the best of Italian cuisine with a menu filled with seasonal dishes inspired by the country’s diverse regions. Look forward to expansive terraces, a swimming pool, and a family-friendly kids’ club called the Gigi Circus.

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Market Island, Dubai Festival City

Chef Roberto Segura has launched two exciting culinary concepts at the newly opened Market Island Food Hall in Dubai Festival City: Nikkei Modern Japanese, a sushi bar blending traditional Japanese techniques with Peruvian flavours, and La Barra, a Peruvian eatery that captures the essence of Peru’s street food culture.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai

The Emperor Lounge invites guests to experience a sophisticated Diwali-themed Afternoon Tea for two, celebrating the Festival of Lights. Patrons can indulge in a delightful array of festive sweet and savoury treats while enjoying the lounge’s opulent atmosphere, available from 29th October to 3rd November 2024.

AED225 per couple.

eJaby

Looking for a new shopping destination? Check out eJaby, an eco-friendly e-commerce marketplace that just launched in the UAE. It helps customers shop sustainably by providing high-quality overstock products at affordable prices.

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