The UAE is gearing up for a long weekend and, while some may have just returned from summer holidays abroad, there is no better excuse to explore offers across the emirates. The long weekend coincides with Emirati Women’s Day on 28 August and properties are celebrating the occasion with limited-edition indulgences, special spa treatments and meaningful exhibitions. Here, MOJEH rounds-up the UAE staycations celebrating culture and honouring heritage.
ME by Meliá, Dubai
Nestled in the heart of Business Bay mere moments from the action of Downtown Dubai, ME by Meliá is the perfect city escape. The hotel takes pride of place within the Opus building and is the only hotel to be designed both internally and externally by the late Zaha Hadid. The futuristic, Michelin Hotels-recognised property is home to 93 sprawling rooms and international dining destinations from Roka to The Maine and Salmon Guru.
This Emirati Women’s Month, ME by Meliá Dubai celebrates Emirati artist Fatma Lootah with an exhibition that explores femininity, memory and identity. The acclaimed artist presents her pieces in collaboration with Art in the Middle, revealing the facets of womanhood – from strength to elegance and individuality – through three meaningful works. In addition, women can avail of an additional 30 minutes on spa treatments as well as upgrades and complementary treats. Book now
The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah
The Chedi Al Bait brings together seven heritage houses to form a 65-key boutique hotel, reflecting Arabian hospitality and the importance of cultural preservation. Located in The Heart of Sharjah, once the centre of the emirate’s old city, heritage isn’t thrust upon guests in a performative manner. Instead, it is deeply – and seamlessly – integrated into every element, from an on-site museum that details the history of the building and its former inhabitants to interiors made with traditional materials and the UAE’s last remaining circular wind tower.
A Heritage Stay, just one of the Emirati Women’s Day offers at the property, includes a complimentary room upgrade, spa credit, tickets to Noor Island and a wellness yoga session. Book now
One&Only The Palm, Dubai
On the western crescent of Palm Jumeirah, One&Only The Palm, Dubai sits on its own slice of serenity. The secluded destination lets a holiday unfold at your pace, whether you opt for a weekend of watersports or spa days. The resort’s palatial, Arabian-inspired interiors flow through each of the rooms, suites and exclusive beachfront villas, the latter of which makes for the perfect getaway for the whole family.
One&Only The Palm, Dubai celebrates Emirati Women’s Day with a Path to Calm ritual at the Guerlain Spa; the two-and-a-half-hour experience includes the Dubai Harmony Treatment, Bastien Duo and a mani-pedi. Elsewhere on the property, UAE-born coffee concept, Relam Roastery, is partnering with The Lounge on a limited-edition selection of beverages and coffee-making masterclasses. Book now
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is a UAE landmark defined by its breathtaking architecture, opulent interiors and cultural significance. The enormous property pays homage to its palatial inspiration throughout with gold accents and interiors that evoke both desert hues and azures of the Arabian Gulf. While Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi makes for an ideal base for exploring the capital, staying put on the property doesn’t mean an empty itinerary – meander between twelve fine-dining restaurants, a traditional spa and two expansive swimming pools for a weekend well spent.
In addition, workshops led by Emirati fragrance House Hind Al Oud and floral atelier Reine de Roses celebrate heritage and storytelling on the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day. Book now
Erth Abu Dhabi
Erth Abu Dhabi began as the Armed Forces Officers Club for the UAE Armed Forces and their families in 1983. Over the next 40 years, the space has evolved from a members-only club to a recreational space open to the public and, in 2021, it found new life as Erth. The luxurious property is a contemporary ode to its origins, with a falcon-shaped central building drenched in desert neutrals.
Erth presents flavours of the world through its dining concepts which span the Michelin-starred Erth Al Hosn; Al Rimal, an international restaurant with roots in the region; Ergon Deli & Café, a modern Greek experience; and Beetza, where you’ll find authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Erth Abu Dhabi is marking Emirati Women’s Day with a villa staycation package that includes a buffet breakfast and Emirati-inspired afternoon tea. Book now
Al Zorah Beach Resort, Ajman
Al Zorah Beach Resort is a peaceful escape that spills across Ajman’s pristine shoreline and one million square metres of protected mangroves. The award-winning property marries the rugged nature of its surroundings with contemporary architecture, inviting lovers of both the outdoors and five-star luxury to tailor the stay their way.
To celebrate Emirati Women’s Month, Al Zorah Beach Resort has curated a month-long programme that includes spa offers, afternoon tea, gift vouchers and a private wellness sanctuary where guests can indulge in a sound healing session and 30-minute massage from the privacy of the property’s one-bedroom garden villa. Book now
