Here’s What To Do In The GCC This June

Cultural experiences take the lead this month

From film festivals and artistic installations in Dubai to musical experiences and luxury getaways in Qatar, there is plenty to explore this June. Here’s MOJEH’s curated guide to the events shaping the GCC calendar this month.

Arab Cinema Week Volume 5, Cinema Akil, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Arab Cinema Week Volume 5, Cinema Akil, Dubai, United Arab Emirates GCC
A still from The President’s Cake

Arab Cinema Week returns to Dubai for its fifth volume, bringing a selection of nine films from ten Arab countries to the city’s cinephiles. Running from 5 to 11 June, this iteration features seven highly anticipated UAE premieres. It also notably shines a special spotlight on Lebanese cinema, exploring themes of memory, identity and belonging. For example, Lana Daher’s Do You Love Me? presents itself as an audiovisual memory of Lebanon that is composed completely of archival footage.

The diverse lineup showcases powerful stories from Iraq, Qatar, Sudan, Morocco and Palestine. If you are struggling to choose from the stellar programme, MOJEH recommends prioritising the documentaries Khartoum and My Father and Qaddafi. Arab Cinema Week Volume 5 will be running until 11 June at Cinema Akil in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai. Book Now

Cipriani Dolci Opens In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Cipriani Dolci Opens In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Opening its first outpost in Riyadh with an all-day dining destination, Cipriani Dolci celebrates another milestone as part of its Middle Eastern expansion. The venue, located in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, is easily accessible and just 20 minutes from the city centre. The menu boasts all the signatures, including Carpaccio alla Cipriani and Baked Tagliolini, alongside an array of baked pastries and cakes to satisfy your sweet tooth. Learn more

Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, Doha, Qatar

The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will host three concerts this month at the Katara Cultural Village Opera House. Each performance is designed to be unique, allowing music lovers to enjoy a variety of compositions. On 9 June, the orchestra will pair Mendelssohn and Richard Wagner for a romantic evening. Come 13 June, Sibelius and Tchaikovsky will take centre stage. The last opportunity to experience the orchestra will be 19 June, with Weber and Mussorgsky’s music painting a picture with their symphony. Book Now

A Meaningful Pause At Mandarin Oriental, Doha, Qatar

A Meaningful Pause At Mandarin Oriental, Doha, Qatar

Opening its doors for a cultural getaway this month, Mandarin Oriental, Doha in Msheireb Downtown Doha is running ‘A Meaningful Pause’ for those wanting to take a break and enjoy the culture and design of the city. With art galleries within walking distance of the property, the hotel is ideal for those looking to venture out and explore. The offer presents savings on the room rate along with daily breakfast, early check-in and late check-out. Whether you’re looking for a weekend staycation or a base for your business trips, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the Mandarin Oriental, Doha. Book Now

Resonance, Al Shindagha District, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A site-specific installation at the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, Resonance is a collaboration brought to life by graphic designer Maryam Namvar and architect Neda Salmanpour. The installation depicts an interplay of visual, auditory and spatial elements, showing the layered history of the district and its contemporary manifestations today. Created with three suspended metal panels, the installation sways with the wind and reflects light, poetically echoing the creek that has seen the movement of water, trade and communities, among several other things. Pay a visit to the neighbourhood this June to experience the installation in person.