Some good news landed this week for all Dubai residents. The government knows we need more green spaces, and they’re about to open the first of 60 in February 2026.

According to The National, these mini green spaces will dot the city with cozy spots that feature indoor and outdoor seating, cafés, and ample room to relax.

A government official mentioned that residents want to see “Emirati values” in public spaces, which I found interesting. I imagine he was referring to discouraging immodest clothing in parks and making prayer rooms or nearby mosques more accessible.

Anyway, here are your weekend plans:

Zagol Ethiopian Restaurant, Al Mankhool

If you‘ve never tried Ethiopian food, you’re in for a treat here. Think spiced meat, warm flatbreads, and rich stews. Order the mixed platter so you get the full spread, and if you’ve never watched a fresh Ethiopian coffee ceremony, Zagol’s is worth staying for. Affordable and memorable.

🔗 Google Maps

Yazaar Cafe, Hatta Mountains

It’s winter, guys. Stop planning mall trips and start planning road trips. Yazaar cafe is a scenic specialty coffee spot with views of Hatta’s mountains. There’s a horse stable attached to the cafe, so you can take a seat outside and take it all in.

🔗 Google Maps

🙂 Explore This

Half Desert Road (Al Awir)

Dubai’s most accessible slice of desert. A 4×4 is ideal but not necessary. If you drive a sedan, you can drive fairly deep into the dune-kissed roads before you’ll have to park up and walk into the sand. Bring a picnic and a flask of tea, and relax between the dunes and the stars.

The last time I went? I saw a man riding his horse into the sunset, and then ten minutes later, I saw another man driving his Cybertruck over the dunes. Just Dubai things.

🔗 Google Maps

Nad al Sheba Blossoms Park, Nad al Sheba 4

A lovely mid-sized park with playgrounds, lush lawns, a running track, picnic areas, and beautiful views of Nad al Sheba Grand Mosque. Pass by Tea Trend Cafeteria at the main gate to grab some 4aed omelet parottas and consider lunch for the kids sorted.

🔗 Google Maps

Here’s a hack you won’t hear often. Take a few extra bottles of water out with you and help stock up the many public refrigerators dotted around the city whenever you see them. An easy way to give.