Things to see and do on Bluewaters Island

This opulent getaway seeks to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul – from the 500m private beach to the holistic spa. Banyan Tree Dubai comprises 179 rooms – including 30 suites, a 10-bedroom villa and 96 private residences – as well as three outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre, a beauty salon and a retail space selling natural products and local handicrafts. The dining is first-class too, including Japanese omakase restaurant Takahisa (mentioned in the 2023 Michelin Guide Dubai) and French Mediterranean bites at poolside eatery Alizee.

While Bluewaters Island is home to an array of satisfying restaurants, The London Project is always a popular choice. Step inside to see why. There’s plenty of commissioned art to peruse while the inhouse podcast studio tunes into community topics… and that’s all before you’ve even sampled the food. Championing the best of ‘London Eclectic’, the menu features star eats such as lime and chilli squid, beef croquettes and battered fish and chips.

Looking for a luxurious private dining experience? The Pods is the perfect choice. Transparent cocoons not only ensure you are exclusively in chosen company but protect you from the elements while letting you sit 'outdoors'. A botanical-themed decor adds to the al fresco vibe. Pan Asian cuisine is on the menu, including comforting Malaysian beef rendang, Burmese khow suey noodle soup, dim sum, soups and plenty more on offer.

He's been awarded Michelin stars for his London and Hong Kong restaurants and now chef Alvin Leung is serving his signature Asian plates in Dubai. Demon Duck at Banyan Tree Dubai takes diners on a journey through the Far East, with fresh takes on Cantonese, Malaysian and Korean classics. Opt for the Duck Journey to sample highlights including whole slow-roasted Peking duck served with citrus calamansi baos, duck lettuce wraps and a signature soup.

Expect a buzzing atmosphere at Brass Monkey, a two-storey entertainment venue that promises hours of fun for everyone. The venue – which has a 21+ age policy – houses a 12-lane bowling alley, VR racing simulators, and more than 60 arcade games. Challenge your friends to retro Pac-Man, shooting hoops, air hockey and more. You can get your game on with a Play Pass Card starting from just AED100. These don’t expire, so you can use any leftover credit on your next visit.