For fun-fuelled adventures over the next seven days, FACT has you covered. 


As we venture into the third week of January, bombastic brunches, cool concerts and dynamic dining destinations are all on the agenda. Read on for our top picks for the week ahead.

Monday 13 January

Dine at the newly-opened Besar

Besar has brought a taste of Spain to Dubai. The new Spanish fusion restaurant is open at Bluewaters Dubai. It combines centuries-old flavours with modern creativity, offering a dining experience that weaves together culture, heritage, and storytelling. The menu is a harmonious blend of Spanish and Arabic influences crafted for the modern palate. Dishes pay homage to the rich lands of Andalusia and the spice-laden winds of the Sahara. Highlight dishes include Tuna Tartar, Smoked Saffron-infused Lamb Shoulder, and Garlic Mushrooms inspired by the lush gardens of Moorish Spain.

GO: Visit https://besar.ae for more information. 

Besar

Tuesday 14 January

Enjoy a night of Champagne at TakaHisa

Japanese craftsmanship and Champagne excellence come together at the FACT award-winning TakaHisa this January. The exclusive 10-course menu will showcase the finest Japanese ingredients and techniques from Takashi Namekata and Hisao Ueda, the renowned wagyu and sushi artisans. Expect umami-rich wagyu, specially sourced seafood and a curated selection of Champagne Henri Giraud Cuvées, thoughtfully paired to complement each course. Available on 14 January at 6pm and 9:30pm. AED 4,000 per person.

GO: Visit www.takahisa.ae for reservations and more information.

Your UAE

Wednesday 15 January

Celebrate Toka Ebisu at Garage Restaurant

This January and February, embark on a journey to Japan at the FACT award-winning Garage Restaurant in W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island. Expect a special menu inspired by the Toka Ebisu Festival, showcasing the finest Japanese cuisine and featuring seasonal ingredients and fresh seafood delicacies like Tokyo Tako Dumplings and wild-caught Nagasaki Hamachi. Available daily until 15 February from 12pm to 10pm. Menu items are priced from AED 65.

GO: Email wabudhabidining@whotels.com or call 02 656 0000 for reservations and more information.

the week ahead

Thursday 16 January

See Michael Buble at Saadiyat Nights

Abu Dhabi is turning up the volume this season with a lineup of global music artists gearing up to grace the capital. For those unversed, Michael Buble hails from Canada and is known for his blend of pop and jazz. With hits such as Feeling Good, Home, Sway and many others, he’s wowed crowds with his soulful melodies. With a Grammy award under his belt and 75 million albums sold, his performance at Saadiyat Nights is sure to add more sparkle to the already star-studded lineup.

GO: Visit www.ticketmaster.ae for more information.

Michael Buble

Friday 17 January

Try the new business lunch at Bar des Prés

Following success in London and Paris, Bar des Prés is now open in ICD Brookfield Place. Perched 51 floors above the city, the restaurant provides panoramic views to complement its three-course business lunch menu that marries French sophistication and Japanese precision. Designed by Chef Cyril Lignac, dishes include Chicken & Baby Spinach Gyoza, Salade Fraîcheur and Tuna Crunchy Galette to start. Main course options include Grilled Chicken Satay, Miso-Caramelised Salmon and Soy-Marinated Soft-Boiled Egg, while Coconut Tapioca or Vanilla Mille-Feuille are offered for dessert. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 3pm. AED 155 per person.

GO: Visit www.bardespres.com for reservations and more information.

Bar des Prés Dubai

Saturday 18 January

Dine on Greek favourites at Poli

Set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, brunch at Poli is a heartfelt celebration of Greek culinary traditions, complemented by live entertainment and a lively Mediterranean ambience. The menu begins with flavorful starters like Feta Saganaki, drizzled with Greek honey and sesame and is followed by marvellous mains such as Grilled Octopus, Seafood Orzo and Wagyu Sirloin. Dessert is a tribute to traditional Greek favourites, including Ravani, a syrup-soaked semolina cake, and Loukoumades, honey-drenched Greek doughnuts. Saturdays from 1pm to 5pm. AED 375 (soft beverages), AED 475 (house beverages) and AED 575 (bubbly).

GO: Call 04 422 5263 for reservations and more information.

POLI Dubai

Sunday 19 January

Have brunch at Jou Jou Brasserie

Discover the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean at Jou Jou Brasseri and enjoy a culinary celebration featuring dishes inspired by Southern Europe, served on the sunlit terrace of Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. Indulge in an impressive array of fresh seafood, a mezze spread, and international cheeses, alongside live cooking stations serving Seared French Scallops, Grilled Foie Gras, and Carved Mediterranean Sea Bass. Desserts by pastry chef Nicolas Lambert include decadent cakes, pastries, and a whimsical Candy Station for a sweet finale. Live music and a dedicated Kids Corner complete the fun. Available on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm. AED 485 (soft beverages), AED 715 (house beverages) and AED 850 (champagne).

GO: Follow @joujoudubai on Instagram for more information.

the week ahead Jou Jou Brasserie