What To See, Watch, Do In The Region

For two nights only, Oak Room at The Abu Dhabi EDITION is hosting an exclusive dining experience with chef Giovanni Ledon of Akira Back Dubai and Oak Room’s own Fernando Tapia. Taking place on 23rd and 24th May, the multi-course menu blends bold Japanese-Korean flavours with refined European technique – think fire, finesse and unexpected ingredient pairings. Seats are limited, so early booking is essential.

Visit OAKROOMABUDHABI.COM

Saudi’s design scene takes a major step forward with the launch of Downtown Design Riyadh – the Kingdom’s first fair dedicated to contemporary and collectible design. Taking place at the JAX District from 20th-23rd May, this curated showcase brings together global design brands, regional studios and emerging Saudi talent. Expect standout installations, limited-edition pieces from names like Christophe Delcourt and Apparatus Studio, and pop-up concepts that blend food, culture and creativity. With design-led experiences across every touchpoint, this is set to become a key date in the region’s cultural calendar.

Visit DOWNTOWNDESIGN.COM

Luxury meets the shoreline this month as Harvey Nichols Dubai takes over Kaimana Beach with its Cruise 2025 showcase, In The Details. Running until 25th May, the collaboration will bring curated corners, elevated beach set-ups and statement-worthy style to J1 Beach. Expect a sun-drenched escape designed for lounging, people-watching and being seen.

Visit KAIMANABEACH.AE

From 28th May to 12th June, Empower Her is bringing its signature energy to Dubai Mall with SUMMER by EH — a high-impact pop-up spotlighting emerging brands from across the region. Expect a curated edit of fashion, beauty and lifestyle labels in a buzzy, high-footfall setting. Whether you're discovering new favourites or supporting women-led businesses, this is one to check out before it wraps.

Follow @EMPOWERHER_AE

For a chic midday escape, book in at Estiatorio Milos. Available weekdays from 12pm-4pm, the AED 200 three-course menu delivers on fresh, Mediterranean flavours – think salmon tartare, grilled fish of the day and Greek yogurt ice cream drizzled with island honey. Want to elevate your selection of dishes? Add the signature lobster pasta or Angus tenderloin. With fountain views and serious table appeal, it’s ideal for long lunches and client catch-ups.

Visit MILOSDUBAI.COM

Known for its elegant French-Asian cuisine, Bar des Prés has just levelled up its wine list with bottles from two of France’s most prestigious producers. Chablis fans can now enjoy pours from Vincent Dauvissat’s storied estate – including Grand Cru and Premier Cru labels – while red wine aficionados will appreciate the addition of Clos Rougeard’s cult Cabernet Francs and rare Saumur Blanc. Whether you're pairing with the signature caramelised black cod or simply sipping at the bar, this refined new edit is reason enough to revisit.

Visit BARDESPRES.COM

Founded by Emirati sisters Salama and Aysha, FORM Studio is Abu Dhabi’s first dedicated Lagree space – and it's fast becoming a go-to for mindful movement and community-led workouts. Located on Saadiyat Island, the studio blends precision training with immersive experiences, from Ramadan sessions on padel courts to current Microformer classes inside the Abu Dhabi National Aquarium. With upcoming workouts at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, this is one wellness destination that continues to think outside the box.

Visit FORMSTUDIO.AE

Following a recent transformation, TODA at Souk Madinat Jumeirah is back with a line-up that fuses culture, tech and creativity. This month, catch immersive yoga with Seetal (17th May), digital art showcases featuring Van Gogh, Klimt and more (18th, 19th, 26th and 29th May), a live Balkan music concert (18th May), and family-friendly screenings and workshops on select dates. 

Visit TODA.AE

Julianne Moore, Meghann Fahy and Milly Alcock headline this buzzy new Netflix limited series – a dark, stylish thriller set over one twisted weekend on a secluded island. When Devon (Fahy) visits her younger sister at the lavish beach estate of her mysterious new boss (Moore), what begins as a casual reunion spirals into a tense power play filled with secrets, obsession and control. With coastal glamour, cultish undertones and a sharp look at female dynamics, Sirens is set to be your next weekend binge. Streaming from 22nd May on Netflix.

Visit NETFLIX.COM