The weather is finally cooling down but there’s no compulsion to head to the beach just yet. Spend the weekend watching a series of thoughtful short films or taking supplies to the donation centre after a brunch with your loved ones. Take things slow before the busyness of the winter season (for those of us in the region) kicks in.
What To Do
With devastating acts occuring all over the world, there are several initiatives in the UAE dedicated to providing support to those in need. The nationwide campaign called UAE stands with Lebanon has been launched across the emirates for those looking to help out. From October 13 to 21, you can drop off clothes and non-perishable food items at Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue. The drop-off centre, licensed by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, is open from 10AM to 6PM for the public to make their donations. Make sure to package food items that have a minimum expiry date of six months and if you’re planning to drop off clothing, they need to be new. Individuals can also make cash donations in the Red Crescent Donation box at the location.
Where To Go
Immerse yourself in the world of abstract art with the latest addition to the UAE’s exhibition roster, Hour Eternal: 20 years of Emirati Abstraction. Only the fourth exhibition to take place at the recently opened Bassam Freiha Art Foundation in Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, it offers the perfect excuse to visit the gallery this weekend if you haven’t had the chance yet. Emirati artists such as Abdul Qader Al Rais, Najat Makki and Hassan Shari will be showing their work, exploring abstract art as a channel for expressing identity and the cultural transformation of the country. Bold colours meet geometrical shapes as stories come to life at Hour Eternal; whether you’re looking for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of Dubai or a learning experience, the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation is the perfect choice.
What To Watch
If you’re heading to Miu Miu Tales and Tellers at Art Basel Paris this weekend, binge watch the Miu Miu Women’s Tales before your visit. Tales and Tellers will transform each of the films commissioned since Spring/Summer 2022 into experiences represented by a character from each. The film series is an ongoing project of which there are 28 films so far, all directed by female filmmakers with artistic freedom to create what they love (as long as everyone’s wearing Miu Miu, of course). The latest Tale, El Affaire Miu Miu, set in Argentina follows the story of a missing model and the investigations that happen afterwards. A mix of genres, the 20 to 30 minute short films are just as entertaining as they are fashion-savvy.
Where To Eat
Although beef is the hero at Beefbar, the Jumeirah Al Naseem-based eatery is a sophisticated venue that flips the notion of a traditional steakhouse on its head. Flavours from far and wide make it to your table at its newly launched Saturday brunch, from Hamachi Crudo to Smoked Beef Amatriciana and the restaurant's signature Steak Frites, complemented by a live percussionist and guitarist infusing Flamenco vibes into the afternoon. Book now
What To Buy
Brighten up your wardrobe with the M collection, the latest launch from Moynat. The candy-coloured collection sees the House’s iconic silhouettes - from the duffle and bucket bag to the camera bag and small-to-large totes - drenched in rainbow hues and wrapped in Moynat’s monogram-adorned waterproof canvas. Though an extroverted collection, introverts can get in on the action with smaller leather goods - including passport and card holders - that act as a pop of colour for an otherwise minimal ensemble.
Founded as a trunk-making House by Pauline Moynat in 1849, Moynat has continued to push boundaries through innovative materials and savoir-faire, now pushing out bona fide It Bags season after season - and the M collection is no exception. Shop now