May is perhaps the last month when one can still bear to be outside, as the rapidly approaching desert heat will soon be too smothering to sustain, forcing us inside until, optimistically, October. So that means we have to take advantage of as much festivities as we can, especially the ones outside, and Dubai and Abu Dhabi have no shortage of things to do, things to eat, and places to party. See you there.
Casa De Samba – SUSHI SAMBA
Every Thursday
Much like the eagerly anticipated return of the McRib, Casa De Samba has long been one of the hottest nights out in Dubai, and just returned back to action last Thursday, starting at 11pm and running until the deep hours of the night.
And tonight, Friday May 3, legendary bartender and founder of the Bellwood in Tokyo, Japan, Atsushi Suzuki will be taking over SAMBAROOM with his award winning cosmetology. Party on.
Ristorante Loren
Although not exclusive to the month of May, if you want to sit outside on their terrace, then you might want to get on it before it gets too hot. Having recently been included in the prestigious 2024 Gault&Millau Guide, this escape to a 1960s Italian riviera is guaranteed to stimulate all your senses. Book a table here.
Brunch at Clay Dubai
Every Saturday
Who knew the Peruvian and Japanese fusion would be such a match made in heaven? The award-winning Nikkei restaurant just launched its bustling new Saturday Brunch, and now its the only place we want to brunch all month. But if you see us there two weekends in a row, don’t make it weird.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
May 23
The only filmmaker aside from Christopher Nolan whose sequels only get better and better, George Miller returns to his legendary Mad Max universe, this time focusing on the origin story of Furiosa. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth, considering how insane Mad Max: Fury Road was, one can only anticipate what this one will be like.
Day-to-Night Party at Be Beach
Time to get that nice summer tan in before the mere thought of stepping outside turns you into a dehydrated raisin. Located at the heart of Dubai Harbour featuring views of Ain Dubai and Dubai Marina, Be Beach is the ultimate fusion of music, relaxation, and culinary mastery. And they recently opened NIU (New Iconic Urban), the hottest go-to beach club popping off every Friday night. Click their Instagram below for more info.
Dine at Sagetsu in One&Only One Za’abeel The Link
There are two types of people: those who love Japanese food, and weirdos. Okay, no judgement if you don’t like it, but if you do, then Sagetsu is the place to go. Located in the new The Link (aka Optimus Prime’s cousin) with a sweeping view of downtown Dubai, the culinary equivalency of a Picasso painting is as creative as it is delicious.
Kokoro, The UAE’s First Handroll Bar
The viral sensation which has quickly become one of Dubai’s most talked about new venues sold more than 24,000 handrolls in just one month. And now, from May 1 -31, if you bring a rubber duck, you’ll get a chance to win a surprise handroll from one of the chefs. No, we’re not kidding. Bring a rubber duck to Al Serkal Avenue, and have your mind and taste buds blown.
Business Lunch (or dinner) at La Niña
Having just recently celebrated their one year anniversary, this modern Iberian Latino restaurant is located in the heart of DIFC, and is the closest you’ll get to running with the bulls in Pamplona, minus the adrenaline (at least the bad kind). Seriously though, prepare for some seriously authentic Spanish dancing and cuisine. Such quality is hard to find. Book a table here.
Regional Cinema at Cinema Akil
Cinema Akil always has a good film calendar, but the month of May will specifically showcase several regional films, the multiple award winning Four Daughters amongst them. Flip through their calendar on their official Instagram account below.
Dinner at Ling Ling at Atlantis The Royal
Okay, sure, Ling Ling may not be a strictly “May” activity, but it is a strictly fantastic experience. Boasting some of the most spectacular views in all of Dubai with sushi to die for, this place is a must. And then, of course, there’s their ultra lounge which has hosted Jay-Z and Beyonce (you may have heard of them) – but only the cool kids get in.
Dinner at Raspoutine
Ra-ra-raspoutine…the legendary Parisian venue is now in the DIFC, and it’s Dinner Party & Club experience are as mythical, if not historical, as its name. From Wednesday to Saturday, you can eat, drink, and dance from 9pm to 3am. And please, monsieur, wear something cool.
BABYLON x La Scéne by Michel Fadel
Dubai’s award-winning dinner and show destination is back with another series of musical spectacle and immersive live entertainment. From Tuesday to Saturday starting at 9pm, treat yourself to a tsunami of live entertainment and musical performances at the acclaimed DIFC hotspot. With different themes for every night of the week, you’ll find something catered to every palate.
Attiko Dubai
Perched atop the 31 floor of W Dubai Mina Seyahi, Attiko has partnered with Japanese craftsmen, Nikka Whisky, introducing a new cocktail menu and ticketed masterclasses. Yum.