Looking to shop local? To spend your hard-earned dirhams at home-grown stores and restaurants? We hear you. And happily, Dubai is a hub for loads of cool homegrown brands, born right here in the city.
While Dubai is known for its big-name international brands that have descended on the city, opening Middle Eastern outposts in the emirate, what we love even more is the opportunity to support small businesses, show a little love to Dubai-born brands, and celebrate home-grown creativity.
From pizzerias to salons, fitness studios and fashion brands, Dubai is a hotbed for talent. So, without further ado, here’s 50 of the coolest homegrown brands to have on your radar this summer.
Homegrown brands in Dubai you need to know
Where to eat
Aretha
Launched: 2024.
Why go: To dress up and enjoy live music.
If you’re always at the latest foodie opening, you’ll know about Rikas Group. The brains behind some of the biggest and best dining concepts in town, such as La Cantine du Faubourg (which it brought over from Paris), Twiggy by La Cantine, Tagomago, Lana Lusa, Mimi Kakushi, XU, Eugène Eugène and Kyma, the newest launch from the team is Aretha. This brand-new live music and dinner venue opened on the Palm in May to much fanfare. Inspired by the legendary singer Aretha Franklin, get ready to head back to the soulful sixties and seventies and enjoy live music and classic dishes, from wagyu beef Rossini to caviar. Plush seating and glittering chandeliers add to the glam line-up. Homegrown brands in Dubai have never looked so glam.
St. Regis Gardens, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, aretha.ae (04 880 5242).
bkry
Launched: 2024.
Why go: Creative and cool baked goods.
Described as “not just a bakery”, bkry is an experimental bake space founded by Kameel Rasyid, who is also the spot’s head chef. Here, you’ll get artisanal baked goods that are created right in front of your eyes in one of the most stunning open kitchens we’ve seen. Get your hands on gooey cinnamon rolls, delicious babka and filled tarts that taste as good as they look. And while the baked goods take centre stage, there’s a fabulous breakfast menu, as well as lunch and dinner on offer, so you’ll never go hungry here.
Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, @bkry.space.
Butter by the Dozen
Launched: 2022.
Why order: For ooey, gooey chocolate chip cookies that we can’t get enough of.
Founded by Asma Jabri, who left her corporate job to become a full-time baker/entrepreneur, Butter by the Dozen is a Dubai-born bakery offering up a classic (and delicious) selection of salt-strewn artisanal cookies that you can order directly to your door. It launched initially in 2022, but has since expanded (with the help of the brains behind Couqley) and in 2024 launched on Deliveroo. With a focus on three flavours, including chocolate chip, peanut butter and Nutella, it’s a small but mighty line-up. Each variety is baked in small batches daily and sent out the same day. With every bite into each cookie, you’ll get a soft centre and crisp, crumbly edges. Order now and thank us later.
butterbythedozen.com (050 2640694).
Café Isan
Launched: 2016.
Why go: Warm service, spicy food and the most authentic Thai plates in town, fact.
Self-taught chef, chef New, learnt all about flavours and ingredients on her family’s farm growing up in Thailand. On moving to Dubai she started cooking for friends and her food was so successful that Café Isan was born. chef New and Lisa Knight launched their first bricks and mortar spot in Cluster B of JLT back in 2016 and the rest, as they say, is history. After outgrowing that spot they’ve since set up a hugely successful joint in Cluster P, as well as having a branch in JVC. At the start of 2024 they joined the crew at Time Out Market Dubai, slinging out their spice-laden dishes in Downtown Dubai. From a small beginning Café Isan is a multiple winner of Time Out Dubai’s Best Thai Restaurant award. Expect flavour-packed dishes and a friendly vibe, with both Lisa and New welcoming their army of fans. Homegrown brands in Dubai are serious about flavour… and all the vibes.
Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, cafeisan.co (058 529 1003).
Eat Beaf
Launched: 2023.
Why go: For the high-quality wagyu patties.
Coming from the team of Blu Pizzeria and Peppers, Eat Beaf exploded onto the burger scene in 2023, in the very cool (and foodie-focused) Dar Al Wasl Mall. Eat Beaf is all about “combining American methodology with Japanese quality”. So expect your burgers to be made with marbled wagyu beef. The space is so minimalistic, it’s almost clinical, but looks great on the ’gram. Burgers are smashed, buns are made with potato flour and fries are messy. Wow your burger-loving friends with this new find. They’ll love it.
Dar Al Wasl Mall, Wasl Road, @eatbeaf.
Eleven Green
Launched: 2023.
Why go: To try the best burgers in town right now.
Love burgers? If you haven’t checked out Eleven Green, now’s your time. The brainchild of husband and wife duo Sultan and Kinda Chatila – of supperclub Tano’s At 8 fame – Eleven Green opened in summer 2023 to much fanfare. A year later it’s launched a second outlet and has a legion of supporters. It’s even notched up a win as Time Out Dubai’s Best Burger 2024. A low-key burger joint in Umm Suqeim, there are often queues out the door for this home-grown hero. After being in a corporate career for nearly two decades, chef Sultan was inspired to set up Eleven Green after winning a competition for the best burger in the UAE in 2022. After that victory he travelled to Dallas, Texas, where his burger won third best burger in the world at the World Food Championship 2022. The signature Bull Burger – smothered in melted cheddar, onions, house-made bacon jam and the team’s famed bull sauce – is unmissable.
Umm Suqeim, eleven-green.com.
Honeycomb HiFi
Launched: 2022.
Why go: Music-lovers will adore it here.
This spot is cooler than cool – and the fact that it’s home-grown makes it even cooler. Launched in late 2022 as the region’s first ‘listening bar’, it’s the place to go for music-lovers in the city. It’s an izakaya-inspired space that has a listening station, vinyl record store and bookshop, while it also prides itself on bringing in top-name DJs and musicians. It picked up Time Out Dubai’s Best Bar 2023, it’s that good. Founded by Serge Becker, Varun Khemaney and Khalil Dahmash (the guys who brought Miss Lily’s to the city) the bar collaborated with Alserkal Avenue’s
Pullman Dubai Downtown, Business Bay, honeycombhifi.com (04 412 6666).
HOYA
Launched: 2024.
Why go: If you love books, plants and food.
Having opened in March 2024 this newcomer to the dining scene can be found in Al Manara. But it’s not just a restaurant. Spanning two levels, there’s a dining area and a vast library of carefully curated books, meaning that you can head along for a cuppa but also get lost in a book while you’re there. The aim is to ‘foster a sense of community and intellectual curiosity’. With lush greenery and plenty of natural light it’s a calming, oasis-esque set-up. And if you’re inspired by all that foliage you can even buy plants from Plant Studio while you’re there, or take part in a horticulture workshop. Founded by Mylyn Calayag and Ghadeer Albarakani, the pair set up HOYA after spending hours in plant nurseries discussing book. This cosy café combining their passions is the outcome.
Al Manara, @hoya.uae (04 346 8986).
Jun’s
Launched: 2022.
Why go: Palate-popping third-culture cooking.
Helmed by applauded third-culture chef Kelvin Cheung, Jun’s is Time Out Dubai’s Best Asian Restaurant and one of the most creative eateries in this city. Having worked around the globe, Cheung draws upon his Chinese heritage, North American upbringing and French training to compile a menu of dishes crafted using ingredients from local farms. Whatever you do, do not skip on ordering the iconic rainbow heirloom carrots (these are not your average carrots, trust us).
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, junsdubai.com (04 457 6035).
Local Foundry Sourdough
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Launched: 2023.
Why go: For wonderfully blistered and doughy sourdough pizzettas.
Baking just 40 mini pizzas a day, the Local Foundry sourdough bar, which is located in a food truck-like container at Alserkal Avenue, is open daily for takeaway, with less than a handful of outdoor tables available. While the focus is on the doughy mini pizzas like Pablo Honey with burrata and spicy hot honey sauce or the Mushroom n’ Mushroom pizza with truffle and cheese, the menu also features a small selection of salads, toasties, sweet treats, and drinks. It looks cool, it tastes great.
Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, @localfoundry.
Mama Booza
Launched: 2024.
Why try it: It’s hot, you need ice cream.
Set up by Dubai-based Lebanese banker-turned-entrepreneur-and-fitness-influencer Tracy Harmoush and her husband Wael Ariss, Mama Booza prides itself on authentic Arabic ice cream, bringing a taste of nostalgia and culture to fans of the frozen dessert. The ice cream is made with 100 percent natural ingredients sourced through local stores and markets. Mama Booza herself is a 60-year-old grandmother whose ice cream became a treat for friends and family when living in London during the pandemic. Using the homemade recipe Harmoush and Ariss have now launched it as a business here in Dubai. The stretchy, creamy ice cream is a taste of Arabic culture with flavours that include pistachio, kunafa, date and chocolate.
mamabooza.com.
Mama’esh
Launched: 2015.
Why go: To try Palestinian fare.
A stalwart on the Dubai dining scene, this fantastic spot set up in Business Bay in 2015 and now has branches across the city, so you’re never too far from authentic Palestinian street food. It’s tagline is “Palestine is a bite away”, and if you’ve not tried Palestinian cooking before, right now is the time. Proudly grown in the UAE, the team encourages you to take away any leftovers to avoid food waste, provides free water and bread for dine-in and promises fresh ingredients, organic flour and kind people, an ethos we can get on board with. Visit in the morning for the brilliant Palestinian breakfast tray and later in the day or night for moreish hummus, foul, fatayer and of course the famed freshly baked mama’esh.
Various locations including Al Manara, Meadows Souk and Business Bay, mamaesh.com (800 548 287).
Moonrise
Launched: 2021.
Why go: For an incredible tasting menu.
Want to try dishes from a born-and-bred Dubai chef? Check out Time Out Dubai award-winner Moonrise. Moonrise is a teeny tiny omakase restaurant that properly represents Dubai and is the name on foodies’ lips right now. With each dish a meal here will take you on a journey through the city’s unique food story and the wildly varied influences that have played a part in what Dubai looks like today. Run by a handful of young and brilliant Dubai-bred chefs and led by Dubai-born Solemann Haddad, Moonrise is fun, it’s playful, it’s ambitious and the best tasting menu experience in the city. Trust us.
Eden House, Satwa, moon-rise.xyz (050 697 2946).
Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar
Launched: 2021.
Why go: For carby goodness, day and night.
This cool, modern Japanese bakery, picked up Time Out Dubai’s Best Bakery 2024 award. From freshly baked bread to deliciously moreish pastries, the smells will have you wanting it all. Set up by Manish Bhargava, ‘tea sommelier, tea master professional, tea champion and tea champion’, you can expect a well-thought out cuppa at Pekoe. Having worked in the technology and financial industries, Bhargava believes that ‘life’s simple pleasures come from sharing and serving’. Be smart and go for a premium sencha, plus the bread and spread combo.
Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, mypekoe.com (04 359 3553).
Pitfire
Launched: 2014.
Why go: For the perfect Neapolitan-New York pizzas (and those
garlic knots, IYKYK).
Ten years in and Pitfire pizzas are still as hot as ever. Time Out Dubai’s Best Pizza 2024 (and 2023) is also a stalwart at Time Out Market Dubai thanks to its much-loved “not quite Neapolitan, not quite New York” pizzas. In March 2024 it launched its first licensed venue, in Dubai Hills, so now you can dine in and have a pint with your pizza. Set up by husband-and-wife team Bill and Michelle Johnson, the pizzas here are massive and come fully loaded. The crusts are puffy and blistered, thanks to a 72-hour fermentation process, adorned with Italian tomatoes and locally produced mozzarella.
Cluster D, JLT, pitfiredubai.ae (800 748 3473).
Rascals
Launched: 2022.
Why go: For the famed handheld heroes.
One of the coolest, and most talked about, sandwich shops in town, Rascals was created by three friends who grew up in Dubai and came together to launch the popular hang-out spot. The first-of-its-kind sandwich deli is the place to visit to get your sando fix. The “Rascal Boys”, Tarek Roumie, Talal Hizami and Ramez Mikhail started their journey when they launched Rascals as a sandwich pop-up at Sole DXB in 2022. It was so popular, that they were asked to create a kiosk in Alserkal Avenue. Six months later and in early 2023 they opened a permanent home in Jumeirah serving up delicious sandos filled with ingredients that are stacked so high, you’ll inevitably end up wearing some of it. Get stuck in (and grab a napkin).
Wasl Square, @rascalsdeli (04 286 0314).
Southpour Coffee Roasters + Juice Bandits
Launched: 2024.
Why go: For some of the best coffee in town.
Who doesn’t need a coffee to kick-start the morning? Built by the genius foodies behind Pickl and Bonbird, Southpour is an ultra-cool coffee and juice spot that’s inspired by East London coffee shop aesthetics. You’ll find it in City Walk, right next to its sister burger and fried chicken brand. Southpour offers locally roasted, premium coffee and freshly-made juices, as well as pastries baked fresh every day. Not only does it offer a cool and laid-back vibe, the instagrammable space is drenched with natural sunlight to really perk you up (even though the coffee does that too).
City Walk, Jumeirah, @southpour.mena.
The Showhouse
Launched: 2024.
Why go: If you love a dinner-show.
The newest venture from Solutions Leisure (the team behind Asia Asia, Lock, Stock & Barrel, The 305 and more), this is Dubai’s latest dinner-show hot spot. Solutions Leisure, founded by Paul Evans, is well-known in the UAE for its sleek nightlife venues. Although Evans originally launched nightlife venues in Egypt, the Solutions we now know and love was established here in the UAE back in 2012. The Showhouse opened at the start of May this year, promising a quarterly rotation of shows – of which the first one is an Alice in Wonderland-themed affair.
InterContinental Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina, @showhousedubai (04 423 8312).
Wise Guys
Launched: 2023.
Why go: For sandwiches that slap.
The DIFC gourmet sandwich spot, Wise Guys is a New York City-style, no frills deli that properly throws it back to the old-school street side shops in the Big Apple. Here, you’ll get delicious sandwiches full of flavour. Tuck into sandos like the ‘fuggetaboutit’ if you’re a smoked turkey kind of person, order the ‘aaaaaaah jus dampwich’ for shredded roast beef and melty provolone cheese. Or choose from calorie-counted bowls, such as the kale-romaine Caesar. And the best part is, if you don’t feel like getting stuck in DIFC traffic, just order it to your home.
Gate District, The Marble Walk, DIFC, @wiseguysdubai (052 686 3801).
Za Za Slice
Launched: 2023.
Why go: For a perfect NYC-style slice.
Created by one of the co-founders of Rascals, Talal Hizami, comes the hottest new pizzeria in Dubai. Za Za is where you go to try New York-style artisanal pizza by the slice in over a handful of different flavours. The menu offers up six types of pizza, bar snacks and nostalgic desserts. On the pizza front, you’ll get the classics like the ‘house Margherita’ and ‘the pepp’, as well as a Dubai favourite like ‘the red’, a tomato-based pizza topped with creamy stracciatella and drizzled with hot honey. The pizzas have people lined up outside, they’re that good. If this hasn’t inspired you, the banging slice on the cover will.
South Heights Tower A, Satwa, @zazaslice.
Where to get some culture
Arabian Boutique Hotel
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Launched: 2024.
Why stay: For some old-world charm.
Launched in January, this hidden oasis is the ideal place for a spot of Emirati culture.The perfect blend of heritage, culture and pared-back luxury, a stay here gives guests a genuine taste of Emirati hospitality, where modern comfort meets timeless tradition. Every detail of the sandstone hotel oozes cultural reference points, all calming on the inside with views out over Ras Al Khor nature reserve adding extra serenity.
Creek Street, Al Fahidi, Al Shindagha, arabianboutiquehotel.com (050 165 9603).
Curated Playlist
Launched: 2024.
Why visit: For the coolest new regional shopping experience.
A new pop-up venture that curates regional brands from around the Middle East, alongside international names, across fashion and jewellery to homeware and accessories, Curated Playlist is the epitome of cool. With a vision to empower businesses and offer exposure through a simple yet innovative pop-up formula of unforgettable experiences, it recently held a pop-up at Keturah Reserve and The Summer Shop at The Ritz-Carlton Residences Creekside by Keturah. With more pop-ups lined up for after the summer, this is the place to shop for brands you won’t find anywhere else, so make sure you check it out and get ahead of the crowd.
@curatedplaylist.dxb.
Kutubna Cultural Center
Launched: 2024.
Why visit: A new Emirati culture centre.
This Emirati-owned cultural hub opened its doors in April, fast becoming the place to go for a rich cultural immersion into Arabic history, arts and culture. An independent bookstore-meets-cultural-centre, it creates a community and space for cultural exchange and creative expression, celebrating the accomplishments of Khaleeji authors, poets and scholars through workshops, lectures, readings and guided conversations. There’s also a kids’ playroom and workshop area, and a new coffee shop. Don’t miss Dr. Rana AlMutawa’s Everyday Life in the Spectacular City urban ethnography photo exhibition on Dubai, which runs until Thursday July 4.
Madina Avenues 17, Nadd Al Hamar. kutubna.ae (04 447 4050).
Upside DXB
Launched: 2023.
Why visit: To become part of a new creative community here in Dubai.
A community orientated collective in your home, Upside DXB in Business Bay is modern city living upgraded. As part of its studio and one-bed apartment residences, it offers an ultra-contemporary co-working hub and events space with games area, swimming pool, gym, podcast studio, The Social Kitchen and Rascals sandwich deli, all creating an innovative place to live, connect, converse, belong and grow. It hosts different resident-only events too, such as fashion pop-ups, life-coaching, wellness workshops and yoga sessions. Having opened at the tail end of last year, memberships are launching soon, plus an expansion
is coming.
Business Bay, upsidebusinessbay.com.
Skooni
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Launched: 2023.
Why book: For a truly tailor-made experience.
A hyper-cool event and art space in Umm Suqeim 2, Skooni is the city’s coolest venue for intimate gatherings and tailor-made experiences. Founded by Nat and Michael Morcos (the founders behind the gorgeous home-grown companies Gosha flowers and Gosha Buro), and located in a private villa in Umm Suqeim, it provides the perfect blank canvas for brands and individuals to host completely bespoke events, from parties to chef’s tables to unique performances. Its recent collaborations with brands such as Gucci and the Maybourne hotel group are now raising the bar for Dubai’s event space scene, so if you’re looking for something swish, add this to our list.
Umm Suqeim, skooni.me.
The Vinyl Souk
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Launched: 2023.
Why visit: To stock up on your vinyl collection.
Having just celebrated its first year and expanded into Abu Dhabi, Vinyl Souk offers monthly music events held at the 25hours Hotel One Central, just near Dubai International Financial Centre. Keen to bring back analogue culture, the more modern of Dubai’s souks brings the sounds of live vinyl DJs to music-lovers in the city. During the events, which have a real community feel, vinyls are played and up for grabs too, so you can purchase some for your own collection and meet like-minded people. Don’t miss the Saturday June 29 event, with curated vinyl DJ sets and the UAE premiere of music documentary Rest is History: Early Days of Jungle & Drum n Bass.
25hours Hotel One Central, Sheikh Zayed Road, vinylsouk.com (04 210 2525).
Tonique Collective
Launched: 2024.
Why visit: For a curated zero percent beverage experience.
This concept store in Alserkal Avenue has a collective approach to all things beverage-related and the first zero-percent retail and pop-up bar lab in Dubai. It’s a people-first kind of vibe centred around food and drink, while connecting brands to their communities. There’s a concept store, creative studio, an Ice Room by Artisan Ice Co., and it offers mixed drinks-making workshops, event management, experience concepts, retail, bar design
and beverage consultancy. Working with both established and up-and-coming brands, Tonique creates unique experiences, for both brands and individuals. Sign up for its new zero-percent beverage workshop on Tuesday June 11 for tastings.
Warehouse 30, Alserkal Avenue, @toniquecollective.
Where to workout (and what to wear)
Achievher Studio
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Launched: 2021.
Why visit: A top-to-toe transformation.
Sitting at the intersection of fitness and wellbeing, Achievher Studio’s transformative classes are both physical and emotional workouts. Tapping into the principles of life coaching, somatic movement, nervous system regulation and performance coaching with yoga, barre and dance, they aim to release trapped emotion and strengthen fortitude. While Achievher launched back in 2021 as an online business selling journals, diaries and motivational planners, the new light-filled rooftop studio in Umm Suqeim has amassed a new cult following, along with a new book club. Fancy dipping your toe in? There’s an intro offer of three classes for Dhs150.
Meyan Mall, Al Thanya Street, achievher.com (055 759 4878).
CRANK
Launched: 2017.
Why visit: For a finger-on-the-pulse fitness fix.
This boutique indoor cycling studio is always creating a buzz, thanks to its state-of-the-art equipment, on-trend classes and instructors with an infectious energy. With a home in Alserkal Avenue, its music-driven RIDE and SHAPE classes are loud, full of lasers and loads of fun. CRANK has its finger on the pulse, curating classes around pop-culture events – think Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. For footy-meets-fitness, join the CRANK Euro 2024 Challenge, from Friday June 14 to Sunday July 14 to win prizes while you work out.
Unit 43, Alserkal Avenue, Street 8, Al Quoz, crank-fit.com (04 321 2095).
Contrast Wellness
Launched: 2024.
Why visit: To check out something new.
Contrast Wellness is Dubai’s new go-to spot to revive mind, body and soul. Think hot and cold therapies with a traditional Finnish Sauna followed by an ice bath and more, all within the most ultra-serene surrounds. With a home on Palm Jumeirah’s Golden Mile, it has already expanded to include a new location at City Walk, with Dubai Creek Harbour opening in July. The City Walk studio has holistic spaces to relax and recover in, including a Social Contrast Room, Contrast Hydro Room and Remedy Room, all scented with cedarwood and bathed in warm light.
Various locations, contrast-wellness.com.
Posture Pilates
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Launched: 2022.
Why visit: To flex out your stress.
This boutique Pilates studio and wellness club has been the name on everyone’s lips since it opened in 2022. Connecting mind and movement through lengthening and stretching, its flagship studio is on Palm Jumeirah’s Golden Mile and it’s set to open a new Downtown Dubai location this summer. Choose between Reformer Flow and Reformer Tempo and hit the mat.
Various locations, thisisposture.com.
The Giving Movement
Launched: 2020.
Why buy: For style with soul.
Built around the simple belief that small acts multiplied by many can change the world, The Giving Movement is Dubai’s go-to athleisure brand for comfort, sustainability and philanthropy. The production process keeps the planet in mind, with everything sourced locally, from supply to production. Founded in 2020 by Dominic Nowell-Barnes, ‘giving’ is front and centre, with every purchase raising US$4 (Dhs15) in charitable support. Since its launch, the brand has donated a huge US$7 million (Dhs25.7 million). Collections include activewear, travel, modest and kids, with stores dotted around Dubai, most recently opening in Dubai Hills Mall and more openings this summer. Like to travel in style? You can pick up a super-comfy T-shirt from Dhs199 or shorts from Dhs149.
Various locations, thegivingmovement.ae.
Where to shop
Dima Ayad
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Launched: 2010.
Why buy: Red-carpet style with inclusivity at its core.
One of the most respected fashion brands in the region, Dima Ayad’s collections are centred around comfortable silhouettes and inclusivity, embracing women of all shapes and sizes. A love of metallics brings the all-out glamour, with designs featuring everything from floaty dresses to billowing kaftans and abayas. The homegrown brand made its mark on the red carpet at the Oscars this year, is hosting a pop-up at Bicester Village in the UK on Monday June 10 and, to sort out your summer styling, is launching a new Arabia-inspired collection on Ounass this month.
dimaayad.com.
Born Outside Italy
Launched: 2024.
Why buy: For a touch of the Mediterranean, in your shoedrobe.
When looking for the perfect pair of trainers, look no further than Dubai’s homegrown brands. Those interested in fashion will know that it is craftsmanship that helps brands make it to the catwalk, never mind the shop floor. Born Outside Italy is founded on, you guessed it, Italian expertise, with a ‘quiet luxury’ and street edge thrown into the weave. The brand officially stepped into athleisure in May 2024, launching its first-ever trainer (Dhs2,250), with the Sneaker 002 dropping in June. Inspired by the minimalism of Japanese finesse, and American casual, co-founders Alfredo Bandini and Daniele Pe bring their respect for understated luxury to your everyday look. Look out for its upcoming sneaker collab with a Middle Eastern streetwear brand later this year.
bornoutsideitaly.com.
Cloudset
Launched: February 2024.
Why buy: To rent super items.
Spotlighting a better way to shop, Cloudset is a brand-new re-commerce platform bringing a more sustainable approach to the fashion industry. It’s basically a cloud-based closet where you can rent for yourself, rent out to others, earn rewards, buy out or re-sell your items. It now has more than 700 items, boasting the likes of Dior and Chanel to emerging designers like Yaspis. A recent collab with model Caroline Labouchere showcased that there’s no ageism in the re-commerce fashion industry, with new partnerships and services on the horizon.
cloudset.com.
Drink Dry
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Launched: 2021.
Why buy: The perfect summer sip.
This isn’t a gym, but it might help your fitness regime and healthy lifestyle plan. When Drink Dry launched in 2021, it changed the face of the zero-percent drinks industry in Dubai. What started as an e-commerce story helmed by Erika Doyle, has developed into a mainstay in the retail and hospitality sector, meaning you can now pick up a zero-percent bottle of grape, hops or mixers in 132 retail stores across the GCC. The brand has just launched drinks from top beverage names in time for summer soirées, too.
Various locations, drinkdrystore.ae.
Enso Design Lab
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Launched: 2023.
Why buy: For a timeless piece.
Hitting our Instagram feeds this time last year, the sustainable jewellery brand is all about giving you classic, elegant – and sustainable – pieces that can live in your collection forever. Offering something to match all of your favourite looks, Enso’s designs are both minimal and meaningful, crafted to look incredible for everyday wear. The brand has just launched its newest collections, Momentum and ZenFlow, with each carrying a personal message from the brand’s creative director, Ani Han. Make room for the momentum gold earrings from Dhs990, or the vegan leather Harmonia wallet for Dhs1,130.
ensodesignlab.com.
One of a Kin
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Launched: 2023.
Why buy: Redefining sleep.
We all know the benefits of a good night’s sleep. One of a Kin has just entered the sleepwear space to make snoozing even more satisfying while being kind to the planet.
A sustainable brand with zero carbon emissions, it uses cooling, breathable material that is two-times softer than cotton for the dreamiest bedtime hug imaginable. Designed for the whole family, you can buy everything from PJs and loungewear to sleep masks and babygrows, and also mix and match what you wear thanks to its PJ Customiser.
oneofakin.com.
LC
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Launched: 2019.
Why buy: Upgrade your summer activewear
Keeping us stylish during workouts since 2019, what started as a sleek activewear brand has now become so much more. Launched by Scottish expat Lyndsay Doran, LC has since released accessories and even a kids range, so you can match with your mini-me.
Rebranding to LC from L’Couture at the beginning of 2024, the lifestyle ranges just keep getting better – launching LC Men in April with loungewear, followed by LC Men Active in June, and a new effortless all-round Lounge Collection for women, perfect for summer travels. It’s time to get shopping.
Various locations, lcofficial.com (058 5172 4340).
So Much Trouble
Launched: 2024.
Why visit: To sip and shop.
A new place where mixed drinks meet retail therapy, this sartorial gem in Dubai is the place to bring your gal pals. Nestled in Dubai Marina, the only trouble you’ll find here is with your bank account, as the place is decked full of cult and vintage finds, from Hermès and Chanel, to Dior and Louis Vuitton, all sourced from Europe. Brought to you by founder Dominique Laird, (the mastermind behind Blended Wellness), expect rich velvet furnishings, a mirrored bar, and eclectic antiques — just like you’ve stepped into a Parisian boutique in the 10th arrondissement.
InterContinental Hotel, Dubai Marina, somuchtroubledubai.com (04 423 8324).
THAT Concept Store
Launched: 2021.
Why visit: Elevated luxe living.
Despite launching three years ago, THAT Concept Store is never far from an Instagram reel, its shopping bags a marker of good style. Spread over three floors in Mall of the Emirates, it’s the quintessential one-stop-shop lifestyle destination. Fashion, tick. Grooming, tick. Interiors, art and a Japanese restaurant, tick, tick, tick. Showcasing some of the edgiest designers you’ll find in this region, the curation and exclusive collaborations make this store one that’s always at the forefront of style.
Via Rodeo, Mall of the Emirates, thatconceptstore.com (800 8428).
The Nest Salon
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Launched: 2023.
Why go: Pampering to suit everyone.
The product of two best friends, The Nest Salon just celebrated its first birthday but has already had a big impact on the local community. Nestled in the heart of Jumeirah, the team works hard to cater to everyone, and, creating a buzz this year with its recently launched ‘silent appointments’ – ensuring those who don’t want or feel comfortable making small talk can still enjoy a relaxing experience.
Umm Suqeim, thenestsalon.ae (058 543 3584).
The Viet Concept
Launched: 2024.
Why buy: To do some good.
Describing itself as ‘uniquely effortless’, The Viet Concept champions Vietnamese design here in Dubai, all in one (online) place. It prides itself on paying tribute to its foreign roots, hoping to bring brands such as Klei Studio (for the Gen Z fashion-lover) Coastu (for streetwear-inspired pieces), POEM (for playful occasionwear) and Lassy (for structured dresses) to Dubai. What’s more, this Vietnamese hub donates Dhs4 for every item sold to the The Viet Foundation, supporting education for children in Vietnam.
thevietconcept.com.
Thrift for Good
Launched: 2020.
Why buy: Support pre-loved clothing.
An incredible cause started with a goal to save pre-loved clothing from the landfill, Thrift for Good is changing the way Dubai interacts with fashion. Offering a sustainable option to donate your old clothing or find something new for a bargain price, all profits from the initiative support a host of children’s charity projects run by Gulf for Good. It’s time to give that wardrobe a summer clear out – and perhaps add some new pre-loved items.
Golden Mile Galleria Building 8, Palm Jumeirah, thriftforgood.org (04 569 3086).
Where to go with family
Akindemy
Launched: 2022.
Why try it: To expand your kids’ minds.
Looking to keep your kids busy over the summer when it’s too hot to be outside? This book subscription service for kids wants to ‘turn your little readers into kind future leaders’ with fully customisable book boxes that arrive each month. Set up in 2022 by Agne Skutelis, the bilingual book subscription service has diverse topics, plus you can choose as many books as you like so you can tailor it to your plans (and budget). There are also discussion cards and surprise gifts included.
akindemy.com.
Carob
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Launched: 2024.
Why try it: For matchy-matchy looks.
Launched at the start of this year by celebrity stylist Holly Elgeti, Carob specialises in matching mother and daughter dresses. The brand also focuses on sustainability as well as style using organic fabrics, ethical manufacturing and recycled packaging – aiming to safeguard the planet for generations to come. Get chic mummy-and-me looks that are perfect for your summer adventures.
carobdubai.com.
FamilyBeatz
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Launched: 2022.
Why try it: To party with the whole gang.
Launched in 2022 by Gail Clough (of much-loved, home-grown comedy club The Laughter Factory) and Kerry Bowen-Pacaud, the family-friendly party takes place regularly across the city. The pair started FamilyBeatz so that people who have kids but miss clubbing can introduce their family to ‘the best parts of rave culture’. The FamilyBeatz parties have music from live local DJs, kids’ activities like arts and crafts, face painting and, of course, plenty of dancing. Events are designed for families spending time together and are wrapped up by 6pm, which means bath and bedtime aren’t disturbed either. As the pair says “families that rave together, stay together”.
familybeatz.co.
House of Pops
Launched: 2018.
Why try it: For natural and plant-based pops.
Self-proclaimed ‘soulful foodies crafting 100 percent natural plant-based fruit pops’ House of Pops launched in 2018 and values purity, wellness, creativity and sustainability. Selling tasty ice lollies, the company was set up by Lebanese-born Mazen Kanaan and Costa Rican Marcela Sancho, starting off experimenting with fruits found in their fridge. Flavours today include choco-matcha, coconut strawberry, dragon colada and even cold brew. It uses plastic-free, compostable packaging, so the pops are good for you and the environment too. Plus it’s been such a success in the UAE that its recently expanded into Saudi.
houseofpops.ae.
Pretty Events
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Launched: 2022.
Why try it: You have a kids’ party coming up.
With balloons, cakes, activities, a guest list, catering, kids’ parties can become quite the occasion (and effort) for parents. Pretty Events was launched in 2022 to take some of the stress out of the events. Whether you have a toddler birthday or a baby gender reveal party there’s a set-up for you, with balloon arches, flower walls, glitter backdrops and more.
@prettyevents.ae.
The Happy Tribe
Launched: 2022.
Why try it: For new summer travel gear.
For cute personalised items, The Happy Tribe is a hit for everyone, from fashion-conscious teens to colour-loving kids and parents wanting practicality. Set up in 2022 by Gillian Sutherland and Jessica Ward, The Happy Tribe sells loads of items, like beach bags, pouches, hoodies, pyjamas, socks and more. In 2023, The Happy Tribe launched its first bricks and mortar store in Motor City, plus there’s a new range of customisable pouches just out for summer 2024, if you’re travelling with the fam and need fresh gear.
Motor City, thehappytribe.ae.
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