Summer officially arrives on 21 June. Of course, this is according to the calendar – ask anyone living in the UAE and they will regretfully inform you that summer (and its 40-degree temperatures) settled in weeks ago. The long weekend whets our appetites for summer holidays to come and The MOJEH Weekend provides a warm-up itinerary worth diving into. If you’re staying put in the city, spend time with loved ones at a creative workshop or catch-up over Pan-Asian dishes at Dubai’s latest brunch. Alternatively, make the most of the three-day weekend with a whirlwind trip to the Turkish Riviera, new travel tote in hand.
Where To Connect
SEVA simplifies the human experience down to its purest forms, providing body-loving meals in an environment that encourages connecting with oneself and each other. As part of its community-driven Homecoming series, SEVA explores presence, reflection and self-expression through a watercolour session guided by Palestinian artist and educator Laila Masri. Guests gather around a communal table to share nourishing plates prepared by Chef Kiki Alvarez and engage in meaningful conversation before exploring their creative sides. Jumeirah 1, Dubai. Homecoming: Where Water Remembers, 7PM to 9:30PM, 13 June. Book now
What To Shop
Qasimi, the London-based House under the creative direction of Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, unveils its first leather goods collection just in time for travel season. The genderless collection features a tote, crossbody, wash bag and card holder, each of which is crafted from nappa leather and available in brown and black colourways. Travel is at the heart of Qasimi; across ready-to-wear and accessories, the House pulses with a nomadic spirit and produces pieces that move with the wearer and weave into daily life. Shop now
Where To Eat
Shanghai Me celebrates Pan-Asian cuisine with a brand-new weekend brunch in collaboration with Floraïku fragrances. Taking place every Saturday, the Maneki Brunch presents a sharing menu of Chinese and Japanese flavours in vibrant surrounds. The afternoon opens with dim sum, salads and a sushi platter before leading into a choice of mains – think black-pepper beef tenderloin and grilled miso chicken – and culminating in an extravagant dessert selection. Still have room for more? Go all-out and elevate your experience with caviar service and a roast duck carving. DIFC, Dubai. Book now
Where To Stay
Maximise every minute of the long weekend with a whirlwind trip to Bodrum on the Turkish Riviera. Maxx Royal Bodrum has reopened for the season, welcoming guests for a summer of gastronomy, live performances and – above all – relaxation. Whether you’re spending the afternoon sprawled on the resort’s pristine beachfront (drink in hand), indulging in signature treatments that harness expertise from around the world, or tucked away from prying eyes in the newly launched (and, frankly, mind-boggling) private villas, there are plenty of ways to unwind. At a mere four-hour journey from Dubai, who could say no? Book now
