Exclusive to the region, embroidered low tread slick shoes, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN X LEVEL SHOES
SHOP: Alexander McQueen x Level Shoes
This weekend in Dubai, discover Alexander McQueen’s limited-time capsule collection set up in a cool, augmented reality experience at Level Shoes in The Dubai Mall. Exclusive to the Middle East, the capsule features fashion-forward oversized trainers and tread slick boots hand-embroidered in gold bullion, jewels and shimmering glitter — prefect for the festive season and beyond. Innovative and interactive, the pop-up is defined by a lenticular effect with printed walls that play with perspective and an app that triggers the house’s signature beetles to come crawling into life. Levelshoes.com
Gaggenau Black Forest Dinner in Inked, Alserkal Avenue
DINE: Gaggenau Black Forest Dinner
For four nights only, the first Dubai-based Gaggenau Black Forest Dinner will take place at Inked, Alserkal Avenue. The gastronomic pop-up will be immersive culinary experience featuring a bespoke menu in a magical setting with snow dusted forestry and whimsical festive decor, designed to reflect Germany’s Black Forest region (where Gaggenau originates from). The menu features five-courses of contemporary German cuisine fused with Gaggenau’s rich heritage — of course, there’ll be a take on the traditional Black Forest dessert and wholesome sauerkraut pie. From December 18 to 21, Dhs455 per person; +971 50 845 1359
Guerlain Spa advent calendar, One&Only The Palm
SPA: Guerlain Spa Advent Calendar
The final weekend in Dubai before Christmas calls for a relaxing spa treatment and the last chance to open Guerlain Spa’s beauty-filled advent calendar at the One&Only The Palm. Throughout December, the spa has hosted a special festive season countdown with surprise gifts for guests to open when they book a spa treatment worth Dhs800 or more. With two new calming packages to try over event season — the Guerlian Holiday Bliss and Holiday Rendezvous — now is the perfect time to unwind, escape and indulge in Guerlain gifting. Book a treatment before December 24 to have a chance to open the Guerlain advent calendar; Oneandonlyresorts.com
Ethically sourced gems from Ruwaya, showcased at the Kanz pop-up in Kulture House
GIFT: Kanz Jewellery Pop-Up
Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful last minute gift, or you want to add to your own magpie hoard, Middle Eastern jewellery pop-up, Kanz, is on hand with sparkling gems shop this festive weekend. Located at arts-hub Kulture House, the pop-up has recently added two new regional designers to its roster; with New brands Sara Al Gurg and Ruwaya joining Gafla and Shamsa Alabbar. Ruwaya uses ethically sourced stones from Kashmir to create everyday rose gold jewellery, and Sara Al Gurg designs understated, floral-inspired finery. Browse through both until December 31; +971 4 399 1790
Festive Afternoon Tea at Noor Lounge, Mandarin Oriental Jumeria, Dubai
SIP: Noor Lounge Festive Afternoon Tea
In between frantic shopping and reckless wrapping, stop off at the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai for a blissful afternoon of festive luxury. Located in Noor Lounge’s sophisticated setting, under a canopy of twinkling lights, sip a cup of homemade hot chocolate and dive into a beautifully decorated selection of sweet and savoury bites. Bows and snowflakes give festive spin to traditional scones and pastries, whilst delicate dim sum adds a taste of the orient, in a magical afternoon tea made for girly reunions and intimate family gatherings. Throughout December, 2pm to 6pm at Dhs320; +971 4 777 2222
