Things To Do In The UAE This Weekend: Family Staycations, Luxe Daycations, Art And Party Brunches

Looking for weekend plans in the UAE? Whether you're in the mood for a family-friendly staycation, a refined foodie experience, a laid-back pool day, a dose of contemporary art or a brunch that turns into a party, this weekend has something for every kind of mood. From Ras Al Khaimah to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, here are some of the best things to do across the UAE right now.

Winter escape deal for families

Rixos Bab Al Bahr is offering families a reason to plan a festive staycation this winter school holiday, with a 15 per cent discount on stays of two nights or more booked until January 4. The all-inclusive beachfront resort in Ras Al Khaimah combines luxurious accommodation, a lively festive atmosphere, varied dining options, and entertainment programmes designed especially for children, while parents unwind and celebrate the season. The offer highlights the resort's focus on creating a complete family-friendly getaway, blending relaxation, seasonal celebrations, and memorable experiences in a refined coastal setting.

Indulge in a timeless French tradition

Throughout January, Ani Group Dubai is bringing a classic French Epiphany tradition to the city with its Galette des Rois, available until January 31 at Le Petite Ani, Maison De La Plage, and La Maison Ani Dubai. The golden puff-pastry cake is filled with soft hazelnut frangipane and hides a traditional ceramic fève, crowning one lucky guest King or Queen for the day. Designed as a festive centrepiece for sharing, the galette can be pre-ordered 24 hours in advance or enjoyed by the slice, priced at Dh400 for a whole cake or Dh35 per slice.

Dive into a luxe daycation

Vera By The Pool is inviting guests to unwind with an elevated daycation experience, offering pool day passes daily from 8am to 8pm. From Monday to Wednesday, passes are priced at Dh400 with Dh200 redeemable on food and beverages, while Thursday to Sunday passes cost Dh400 and are non-redeemable. For a more private escape, the Vera Pool Chalet is available for day use from Dh5,000, including Dh2,500 in F&B credits, accommodating up to four guests. Those looking to extend the experience can also book the Pool Chalet for an overnight stay at Dh5,000 per night, with check-in at 3pm and check-out at noon the following day, subject to availability.

Check out some art at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi has extended its acclaimed Art Here 2025 exhibition until January 25, 2026, giving visitors more time to explore one of the museum's signature contemporary showcases presented in collaboration with Richard Mille. Now in its fifth edition and curated by Sophie Mayuko Arni, the exhibition brings together six works by seven artists from the GCC and Japan, as well as MENA artists with a GCC connection, under the theme“Shadows,” examining ideas of light and absence, memory and identity. Highlights include the winning installation by Ryoichi Kurokawa, recipient of this year's Richard Mille Art Prize, with all works displayed beneath the museum's iconic dome for a truly immersive experience.

Brunch and beats

A firm favourite on Dubai's weekend calendar, Saturdays with Eva at Eva Beach Club continues to draw a stylish crowd with its high-energy indoor party brunch at The Club, Palm Jumeirah. Running every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm, the experience pairs refined sharing-style dishes - from Gillardeau oysters and beef carpaccio to truffle pizza, Wagyu short ribs and wild mushroom risotto - with upbeat music and a chic indoor setting. Guests can choose from non-alcoholic, house or premium beverage packages, before keeping the celebration going at the After Brunch Party from 5pm to 8pm, featuring dedicated beverage packages and lively tunes that stretch the weekend mood well into the evening.

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