Tired of Googling “Things to do in Dubai” every weekend, only to mindlessly scroll through overwhelming options before surrendering to your faithful bed and Netflix? We’ve been there; matching the pace with Dubai’s eternally expanding dining scene, art exhibits, weekend brunches, and outdoor adventures can be daunting. Keen on making your weekends more exciting?
Discover Buro’s Weekend Playbook, your secret decoder, to unlock the very best Dubai has to offer.
A SUMMER OF CLASSICS AT CINEMA AKIL
This weekend, dive into the magic of cinema at Cinema Akil in Alserkal Avenue, where a curated selection of 14 powerful films is running through late September. Leading the charge are two silent film legends celebrating their 100-year anniversaries: Charlie Chaplin’s The Gold Rush, mixing sharp humor with genuine emotion, and The Phantom of the Opera, a chilling classic that shaped early horror. It’s the perfect spot to experience 100 years of film history in one stylish, laid-back setting
VISIT THE NEW CHARLOTTE TILBURY POP-UP
Make your way to Charlotte Tilbury’s pop-up at Dubai Mall’s Star Atrium to try her popular products and get a free colour analysis to find your best makeup match. You can also play fun games to win prizes, including free beauty makeovers. Open until August 27, it’s a great spot to refresh your look and enjoy some fun.
GET SWEATING WITH BENEFIT COSMETICS X TOPSTRETCHING
Treat yourself to the perfect mix of fitness and beauty with the Benefit Cosmetics x Topstretching collaboration. Head to Topstretching’s Downtown Burj Vista or Palm Jumeirah studios to try their Glow Stations—post-workout spots stocked with Benefit’s bestsellers so you can freshen up and shine right after class. Thinking of joining? Sign up for a membership and snag a limited-edition Benefit pouch filled with beauty must-haves to keep your glow going. Plus, buy three full-size Benefit products at select boutiques and score a free stretching class—because feeling good inside and out is the ultimate weekend win.
VISIT THE ACQUA DI PARMA CAFE
Escape to Caffettino by Acqua di Parma at Bloomingdale’s Dubai Mall for a taste of Italian summer right in the city. Designed with nods to both classic Roman architecture and Dubai’s heritage, the café offers a cozy yet stylish setting to sip expertly crafted espresso drinks, indulge in traditional pastries like cornetti, or cool off with unique iced coffee creations. Don’t miss the seasonal gelato cart or refreshing mocktails. While you soak up the Mediterranean vibes, you can also explore Acqua di Parma’s signature fragrances and limited-edition collections, making it a perfect blend of flavor and luxury to brighten your weekend.
TAKE PART IN A MATCHA WORKSHOP
This weekend, skip your usual matcha date with your bestie and dive into a hands-on matcha-making masterclass with Brunch & Cake and Health Nag. It’s the perfect chance to learn how to whip up that vibrant green magic yourself. Classes run August 8 at Mirdif City Centre and August 9 at Address Montgomerie, each two hours packed with fun and flavor. A fresh way to shake up your weekend and maybe discover your new favorite ritual.
ALSO READ: HOW MANY OF DUBAI’S LATEST FOOD & BEVERAGE OBSESSIONS HAVE YOU TRIED?
