UAE venues reopening for winter, including Hatta, Global Village and Dubai Safari

The UAE's scorching summer months lead to several venues closing their doors temporarily. However, the cooler climes bring with them a wave of comebacks. Whether you're looking to unwind at a beach club or terraced restaurant, engage in adventure or immerse yourself in a cultural experience, there's a venue out there for you. Here are some to keep on your radar and dates to add to your calendar. Dubai Garden Glow Opens: Wednesday Back for its 10th season, this family-friendly destination is pegged as the largest glow-in-the-dark garden in the world, with more than 10 million LED lights illuminating the outdoor park. About 500 glowing designs and 120 animatronics are scattered across the venue, making it a fun spot for young children. Sunday to Friday, 5pm-10pm; Saturday, 5pm-midnight; from Dh70; Zabeel Park, Dubai; 055 918 8126 Aventura Parks Opens: September 16 The zip line park and obstacle course playground is designed for thrill-seekers. The theme park is home to 80 obstacle courses, 24 zip lines and other activities designed to promote movement and problem-solving skills. There are trampolines and swings, as well as restaurants all nestled around a tranquil ghaf forest. Daily, 2pm-8pm; from Dh35; Mushrif Park, Dubai; 052 178 7616 Dubai Safari Park Opens: October 1 The popular wildlife park is divided into six themed zones with an array of educational opportunities, and will also offer new experiences and attractions this season. More than 3,000 animals are housed there, from wildcats best viewed on a safari drive to giraffes, elephants and dozens of reptile and bird species. Daily, 9am-5pm; from Dh20; Al Warqa 5, Dubai; 800 900 Hatta Opens: October 1 Just 90 minutes from Dubai, Hatta remains one of the most popular winter venues for people of all ages and interests – whether it's a relaxing glamping experience or a more adventurous time in the mountains. Elevated camping options, from tents to wooden lodges, are available at Hatta Resorts, while those looking for activities such as hiking and mountain biking can head to Hatta Wadi Hub. Daily, 9am-9pm; various locations around Hatta; 04 852 2200 Ripe Market Opens: October 14 The flagship location of Ripe Market at Academy Park in Dubai is home to dozens of artisans selling everything from jewellery to home decor and toys to home-made foods. A petting zoo is on-site as well as live entertainment in the central arena. Saturday, 9am-9pm; Sunday, 9am-7pm; from Dh5; Umm Sequim, Dubai; 04 315 7000 Global Village Opens: October 16 Global Village, one of Dubai's most popular open-air entertainment destinations , is buzzing with things to see, do and buy. The park is set to expand with more pavilions, attractions and food options on offer for the 29th season. Global Village is scheduled to remain open until May 8 next year. Sunday to Wednesday, 4pm-midnight; Thursday to Saturday, 4pm-1am; Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai; 04 362 4114 Dubai Miracle Garden Opens: TBC, expected this month While an exact date is yet to be announced, Dubai Miracle Garden is expected to open its doors for a new season of flowers galore this month. Located in the Dubailand district, the vast park is pegged as the world's largest flower garden with more than 50 million flowers and 250 million plants – perfect for a day of sightseeing and picture-taking. Monday to Friday, 9am-9pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9am-11pm; from Dh80; Dubailand; 04 422 8902 BCH: CLB Opens: Now Among the newest beach clubs in W Dubai – The Palm, the venue boasts a sprawling outdoor area with an infinity pool and luxurious day beds. The Mediterranean menu includes delicacies such as tuna pop tarts, sea bass ceviche, burrata pizza, watermelon and feta salad and a delectable mountain toast with Wagyu, caviar and truffle on buttery brioche. Daily, 11am-8pm; Palm Jumeirah, Dubai; 04 245 5555 Punjab Grill Opens: Mid-September The fine-dining Indian restaurant, led by chef Sandeep Ail, closed its original location at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal last month, following plans to renovate. It will reopen in another part of the hotel, one with expansive outdoor seating. While the menu featuring North Indian cuisine remains much the same, there are a few new dishes to look out for. Daily, 12.30pm-11.45pm; The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal; 02 449 9839 Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar Opens: September 14 The venue at Grosvenor House in Dubai venue is back this winter with a refreshed menu, featuring Mediterranean and Asian-inspired dishes such as seared scallops with roasted capsicum and chorizo foam, spicy aubergine with miso and black rice puff and Canadian lobster spaghetti. The lively rooftop lounge includes a terrace pool with views of the Dubai Marina skyline. Sunday to Thursday, 6pm-1am; Friday, 6pm-2am; Saturday, 5pm-2am; Dubai Marina; 04 317 6000 Soul Beach Opens: September 21 DJ MK is set to lead the season-opening party at JA The Resort's beach club. Dotted with sunbeds and loungers, it benefits from a quieter beachfront in Jebel Ali. Daily, 10am-10pm; Jebel Ali, Dubai; 04 814 5126 Cafe Fountain Opens: October 1 The outdoor cafe on the grounds of Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi is made for families to unwind and relax amid luxurious surroundings. An array of tea and coffees are available, as well as light meals and pastries celebrating Emirati recipes. Guests can opt for the afternoon tea package, at Dh175 per person, too. Daily, 3pm-midnight; Corniche, Abu Dhabi; 02 690 7999 Sand & Koal Opens: October 1 Closed during summer, the outdoor-only restaurant, which is also at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, offers stunning seaside views and decadent meals cooked on an open fire. A DJ is on-site to set the mood, while fire dancers lead the entertainment during weekends. The venue also has a lounge area that is open until 1am. Daily, 6pm-11pm; Corniche, Abu Dhabi; 02 690 7999

UAE venues reopening for winter, including Hatta, Global Village and Dubai Safari

Here's what to know about the parks, restaurants and beach clubs gearing up for the cooler season