It’s no secret that summer months in Dubai are warmer than others, leading to residents leaving the city and tourists choosing cooler destinations in Europe and Asia to holiday in. With that, Dubai enters a slower season due to more limited outdoor activities and a decrease in events happening around town, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do.
On the contrary, the city offers a lot of indoor alternatives that can be enjoyed throughout the summer. It is also a time to wind down and rejuvenate ahead of the busier seasons. From visiting new restaurants, enjoying staycations at affordable rates, to even spending the day at a temperature-controlled pool and fueling their culinary creativity, chefs of MICHELIN-starred restaurants, moonrise, Tasca by José Avillez and Ossiano, share how they like to spend their summers in Dubai and some tips on how to make the most of summer in Dubai.
A chef’s summer
For moonrise chef, Solemann Haddad, summers take him back to his childhood in the city, where “exploring cafeteria culture in the city” and ordering Abood Juice or Aseer Tabakat is one the best ways to keep cool. Cafeterias around Dubai are iconic in the city’s culinary scene, especially for those that grew up here.As for chef Gregoire Berger of Ossiano, he prefers to spend his time cooling down poolside with his kids. “Dubai is home to some of the most breathtaking pools, offering the perfect way to beat the heat – that’s where you’ll find me,” he says. “There's something magical about the combination of cool water and warm sun.” Pools around Dubai are cooled down during summer months, allowing for a chance to enjoy the outdoors and get a dose of vitamin D despite higher temperatures.
While chef José Barroso of Tasca by José Avillez believes in adapting to the heat and not letting it stop you from doing things one typically enjoys in cooler months. “For those who enjoy outdoor exercise, timing is everything,” he explains, “early mornings, around 6 am, are perfect for a refreshing run along Jumeirah Beach.”
Taste of summer
As for the best dishes to eat during the summer, the chefs have recommended a variety to try out. One dish on Tasca’s menu that chef José proposes is the “Tasca "Mariscada", a two-part Portuguese dish made up of three seafood starters and a main course that features charcoal-grilled lobster, tiger prawn and giant red shrimp – all of which are reminiscent of Portugal stunning coast. The dish is light and fresh, perfect for a hot summer’s day.
For chef Gregoire, homemade ice pops are the way to go! “The delicious burst of fruity flavours makes it an ideal dessert to savour on a hot day,” he says, “it's a simple yet perfect way to stay cool and enjoy a sweet treat.”
“Ceviche anything!” exclaims chef Solemann, “we always make sure there is at least one raw dish on our menu. Especially in the summer months, having a fresh raw fish dish with a lot of punch, acidity, and salt, is such a refreshing way to beat the heat.”
A time to reflect
This time in Dubai is perfect for winding down and refreshing, unlike its cooler, peak seasons when everything feels more rushed. Day to day life is more relaxed and enjoyed at a slower pace.For chef Gregoire, this period evokes a sense of nostalgia and is a time for focus. “I love the tranquil atmosphere that settles over the city, reminiscent of my arrival in 2014, evoking nostalgia and reflection,” he says. “[It’s] a good opportunity to focus on training, enhancing service, and fine-tuning operations to ensure we are fully prepared for the bustling high season ahead,” he adds.
While chef José takes advantage of these quieter months as a chance to spend more time with his family, explore the city and connect with his team. “It’s a great chance for culinary research and discovery, allowing me to immerse myself in the city’s vibrant food scene,” he says, “and it’s the perfect time for innovation and an opportunity to connect with my team on a deeper level. I work closely with them, experimenting with new flavours and refining our menu.”
“Summer also provides the ideal time to reconnect with family and friends, enjoying the slower pace and exploring the city together.”
How to summer in Dubai
As for ways to spend your summer in the city, the chefs have different approaches. Chef Solemann making use of hotels and indulging in staycations. “Hotels are much cheaper than in high season, so a lot of relaxing and a lot of staycations,” he explains, “hotel movie nights with room service is a classic that’s hard to beat!”
For both chefs José and Gregoire, summer is the best time to explore the city’s hidden gems. “Eating my way through the city's diverse offerings is an adventure that never gets old – and the best part is, no matter how hot it gets outside, this activity stays delicious and cool,” chef José mentions.
While chef Gregoire says that “embracing quieter moments and finding beauty in the unexpected enriches the experience.”
Illustration image: Department of Economy and Tourism - Dubai
