TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM MAY 2026 3 Inside Looking for things to do in Dubai? Turn to page 31 for the best of the city Your essential guide to Keep the kids busy From Snakes & Ladders made out of candy to a DIY candy kabob kid, pop into Candylicious to combine sweets with interactive gameplay. Page 16 O Get a back rub Unwind ahead of your flight at DXB’s Be Relax and get a massage. Page 12 New summer refreshments Roti Bhai is bringing in two new sweet and sour drinks, perfect for summer. Page 23 Candylicious4 MAY 2026 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Airports are all about movement. Departures, arrivals, quick stopovers and long-awaited reunions. But if there’s one thing worth slowing down for, it’s a really good meal. Whether you’re just passing through or call this city home, Dubai and DXB deliver when it comes to dining worth planning your day around – or, frankly, your entire trip. Over the past 12 months, the Time Out Dubai team has been out there, dining anonymously and paying for every single meal. No freebies, no special treatment. Just honest experiences shaped by real visits. It’s the only way we can confidently stand behind every recommendation in these pages. The result is a guide to the places that have genuinely impressed us. The neighbourhood favourites that earn repeat visits. The special-occasion spots that justify the splurge. Because wherever you’re headed next, Dubai is a city that’s always worth arriving hungry for. facebook.com/timeoutdubai youtube.com/timeoutgcc timeoutdubai timeoutdubai timeoutdubai Ed’s pick Yousra Zaki Group Food Editor Enjoy the cool-ish weather while it lasts and take your bike out for a spin (p58) Hello Published by ITP MEDIA GROUP FZ-LLC © 2026 Time Out Group Ltd, London, UK. Time Out Dubai PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE +971 4 444 3000 www.itp.com Offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Geneva, London, Mumbai & Riyadh ITP Media Group CEO Ali Akawi Managing Director Martin Chambers Deputy Managing Director Holly Sands Time Out Dubai Editorial Group Food Editor Yousra Zaki +971 4 444 3255 | yousra.zaki@itp.com Digital Editor Aimee Jakes +971 4 444 3487 | aimee.jakes@itp.com News Editor Findlay Mair +971 4 444 3893 | findlay.mair@itp.com Features Editor Sian Traynor +971 4 444 3396 | sian.traynor@itp.com Senior Social Media Editor (maternity leave) Wyanet Vaz Social Media Executive Marion Colaco +971 4 444 3569 | marion.colaco@itp.com Social Media Creator (Partner Content) Nancy Lova +971 4 444 3305 | nancy.lova@itp.com Digital Content Lead Jeffrey Casiño +971 4 444 3591 | jeffrey.casino@itp.com Content Executive Rodelito Mamuad +971 4 444 3657 | rodelito.mamuad@itp.com Events, Marketing & Brand Head of Events Eleanor Ashton Senior Events Manager Kate Galaktionova Events Manager Gavin Moeketski Associate Events Manager Vrinali Nazareth Associate Events Manager Maria Trishina Events Coordinator Bobbie Rosario Events Sales Assistant Joyce Swalonga email: events@itp.com Art Senior Designer Gillian Fletcher Junior Designer Celine Iskandar-Elhachem Group Video Editor Bharat Tahiliani Production, Distribution & Circulation Senior Production & Distribution Manager Balasubramanian P +971 4 444 3871 | balasubramanian.p@itp.com Production Manager Anand Sundaram +971 4 444 3424 | anand.sundaram@itp.com Distribution Coordinator Avinash Pereira +971 4 444 3669 | avinash.pereira@itp.com Circulation Executive Rajesh Pillai +971 4 444 3236 | rajesh.pillai@itp.com Advertising Chief Commercial Officer Sally Whittam +971 4 444 3348/+971 56 104 0567 | sally.whittam@itp.com Advertising Director David Wurie +971 52 576 2162 | david.wurie@itp.com Senior Advertising Manager Keenan Cunningham +971 4 444 3533 | keenan.cunningham@itp.com Commercial Manager Tim Quick +971 4 444 3351| tim.quick@itp.com Senior Commercial Admin Executive Janet Comia janet.comia@itp.com ITP Group CEO Ali Akawi CFO Toby Jay Spencer-Davies The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review. Published under the authority of and in collaboration with Time Out Group Limited London UK. Printed for sale in AGCC and Egypt only. The name and logo of Time Out are used under .licence of Time Out Group Limited London UK Zaki oodTIMEOUTDUBAI.COM MAY 2026 5 It’s all about mum Pick up a limited-edition T-shirt at Hard Rock’s Rock Shop. It’s a cool graphic piece that makes a fun and unexpected international Mother’s Day gift. Designed with signature branding and an easy fit, it’s something she’ll actually wear beyond the occasion. O Terminal 3, Concourse B, near GateB25, Concourse C, near GateC32. Hot listHot list A blue icon The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph features a 39mm titanium case, blue dial and racing-inspired design with stunning modern refinement. O Dhs34,340. Dubai Duty Free. Piping hot tea Enjoy seasonal savings at Fortnum & Mason, with up to 40 percent off a selection of favourites, alongside a Spring collection of biscuits and shortbread, bringing classics for less. O Terminal 3, Concourse B, near GateB21. Next-gen tech Pick up the Apple MacBook Neo for a sleek everyday laptop, combining striking colour options with a durable aluminium design. With a Liquid Retina display, it keeps up with work and travel. O From Dhs2,479. Dubai Duty Free. Stay cool As temperatures start to rise, you can try the new oat signatures at Veranda Café in Concourse B. Expect a range of refreshing drinks made with oat milk, like the Arabian date latte or the brightly-coloured spring dew matcha. They’re the perfect pick-me-up. O From Dhs41. Terminal 3, Concourse B, near GateB21. Please note that some outlets’ operation availabilities may vary across Terminals 1, 2 and 3 (arrivals and departures). 6 MAY 2026 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Concourse D Goes down smooth Freshly blended with real fruit, Pret’s new smoothies and frappes are an easy, refreshing way to cool down on the go Pret is bringing a fresh hit of summer with its new range of smoothies and frappes, all blended to order using real fruit and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. If you’re after something light and refreshing, the dragon fruit smoothie is bright, cooling and subtly sweet, with a clean finish that feels made for the heat. Prefer something juicier? The cherries & berries blend delivers a punchy mix of sweet and tangy flavours that feels instantly revitalising and dangerously easy to sip. For something more indulgent, the tropical mango smoothie leans smooth and wonderfully creamy, with a richness that still feels refreshing, while the blue spirulina option adds a pop of colour and a feel-good twist with a fresher, fruit-forward finish. And for a chilled pick-me-up, the matcha frappe brings that signature earthy flavour in a cool, creamy format that’s perfectly balanced and ideal for a mid-day reset. Fast, fresh and made without shortcuts, it’s an easy way to cool down, recharge and keep moving when temperatures climb. O Terminal 1, Concourse D, near GateD11, Terminal 3, Concourse A, near GateA22. Pret A MangerTerminal 1 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM MAY 2026 7 Directory Turn the page for Concourse map RESTAURANTS Costa Coffee 100 % VE GA N Need refreshments? Visit the famed coffee chain when you’re after a hot or cold drink. O Ground floor, near GateD13. KFC If a trip to the airport is an excuse for filling up on something fried, head to the Colonel’s finger-lickin’ house of fried chicken. O First floor. Krispy Kreme Stock up on sugary treats at this haven of heavy glazing. There are also hot drinks and iced coffees on the menu to wash it down. O First floor. McDonald’s In the mood for salty fries, a burger and a fizzy drink? Heed the call of the golden arches on the first floor of Terminal 1. O First floor. Pret A Manger 100 % VE GA N In addition to all the new smoothies, you’ll find all your favourites present and correct here, from salads and protein pots to juices. O Ground floor, near GateD11. Qinwan Premium Dates & Café 100% VEG AN Enjoy regional specialities, including delicious dates and coffee at this popular name now in DXB. Pick up a gift or dine in. O Ground floor, near Gate D11. Sawa 100 % VEGA N Up on the first floor, Sawa serves traditional Lebanese street food. You’ll find fresh shawarmas, creamy hummus and more delicious comfort food classics. O First floor. Starbucks If your day can’t start without a coffee and a carby treat, go to Starbucks. O Ground floor, near GateD6 and GateD18. Vegetarian options 100% VEGA N Vegan options Halal Dairy-free options Gluten-free options Alcohol served KEY Taste of India 100 % VEGA N Grab a quick, casual meal from this Indian spot, serving dosas, biryanis and more. A no-frills budget-friendly option. O First floor. The Daily DXB 100% VE GA N There’s heaps of choice here at The Daily DXB. Head to Jailbird for fried chicken, Ikaria for authentic Greek food or St. Mia for pizza and pasta. Visit Wok for tasty Asian dishes or head to Get Your FIX for everything from sandwiches to coffees. Dairy-free? Try the tahina oat milk latte. O Ground floor, near GateD12. The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck From the famed Austrian-American chef, this is a swisher-than-average spot to grab some grub before you take off. Try the pizzas, they’ll make you a happy diner. O First floor. The Noodle House A well-known chain of pan-Asian eateries regionally, the menu criss-crosses the continent with Japanese ramen, Thai curries and loads more Asian favourites that are sure to make you smile. O First floor. Taste of IndiaTerminal 1 8 MAY 2026 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM BARS The Bar at Daily DXB 100% VEG AN Serving up all kinds of drinks and a menu from Daily DXB’s dining outlets, The Bar is an ideal spot to unwind before a flight with runway views. O Ground floor, near GateD12. The Draft House Avid sports fans will be spoilt for choice with live broadcast sports channels from around the world streaming at this cool sports bar. Grab a burger, sip on a drink and while away the time before your flight. There are often deals, too, so keep a lookout. O First floor. SHOPPING adidas Get kitted out at one of several adidas stores in DXB (you’ll also find them in Terminal 3, Concourses A and B). Be sure to pop in to pick up some sportswear. O Ground floor, near GateD13. Boots Forgotten any essentials? Fret not, you can pick up sun cream, kids’ supplies, make-up, toiletries and more ahead of your flight. O Ground floor, near GateD13. Burberry Purchase the brand’s luxury accessories, as well as its famous sleek trench coats, if you want a treat for yourself or a gift. O Ground floor, near GateD13. Dubai Duty Free You’ll find dedicated spaces for everything from perfume and books to chocolate and electronics at Dubai Duty Free. O Ground floor. Garrett Popcorn Love popcorn? Garrett Popcorn has two outlets in Concourse D to pop into. You’ll find everything sweet and savoury. O Ground floor, near GateD6 and GateD17. Le Clos For more than 15 years Le Clos has hand- curated the world’s finest beverages, providing unparalleled access to rare gems. Explore the exclusive and vintage selections from renowned Châteaux, artisan grape growers and Scottish distilleries. O Ground floor, near GateD13. Tiffany & Co. Shop the high-end collection of jewellery from this world-famous designer brand. From bracelets to rings, necklaces and pens, you’re sure to find a gift here. O Ground floor, near GateD13. LOUNGES Ahlan Business Class and First Class lounges Enjoy that luxe vibe, sample a buffet and sip on drinks to start your journey in style. O First floor. British Airways Lounge A sleek lounge with a bar, dining area and a chic look for first and business travellers flying with British Airways. O First floor. Gates D1-D12 4 18 17 16 2 5 9 11 10 Concourse D, Terminal 1 ENTRANCE RESTAURANTS 1. Costa Coffee 2. Pret A Manger 3. Qinwan Premium Dates & Café 4. Starbucks 5. The Daily DXB SHOPPING 6. adidas 7. Boots 8. Burberry 9. Dubai Duty Free Electronics 10. Dubai Duty Free Fashion 11. Dubai Duty Free Liquor & Tobacco 12. Dubai Duty Free Perfume & Cosmetics 13. Garrett Popcorn 14. Le Clos 13 15. Tiffany & Co. 16. Dubai Duty Free Confectionery 3TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM MAY 2026 9 Gates D13-D21 Restrooms MosqueCurrency ExchangeVAT RefundATM 7 12 14 1 15 8 4 13 GO UPSTAIRS FOR KFC Krispy Kreme McDonald’s Sawa Taste of India The Draft House The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck The Noodle House Ahlan Business Lounge Ahlan First Class Lounge British Airways Lounge Gulf Air Lounge Lufthansa Lounge marhaba lounge Skyteam Lounge Gulf Air Lounge Black, Gold and Silver Falconflyer card holders for Gulf Air can head here ahead of their flights. O First floor. Lufthansa Business Lounge Lufthansa passengers can visit this lounge ahead of takeoff to enjoy a comfy setup, plus a buffet, drinks, showers and more. O First floor. marhaba lounge Whether you’re flying economy or first class, you can book into the marhaba lounge and enjoy an international buffet and drinks, with comfortable seating. O First floor. Skyteam Lounge This lounge is set over 960sqm and even has a kids’ area. You can access it if you’re flying first or business, or are an Elite Plus Frequent Flyer, on Air France, China Eastern, Kenya Airways, KLM, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines and Virgin Atlantic. O First floor. WELLBEING 17. Be Relax 18. Sleepover WELLBEING Be Relax Pop into Be Relax for a range of pre-flight treatments, including manis, pedis, facials, massages and more. You deserve it. O Ground floor, near GateD9. Sleepover Whether it’s a quick nap or a full night’s sleep, you can take a break here. There are also showers for a wake-up call. It’s time to arrive at your destination refreshed and rested thanks to Sleepover. O Ground floor, near GateD7. 6 adidasNext >