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Sights & Attractions
Things to see and do on Bluewaters Island
Mon, December 25, 2023
From luxury resorts to fine dining and record-breaking attractions, Bluewaters is a must-see destination in Dubai.
From luxury resorts to fine dining and record-breaking attractions, Bluewaters is a must-see destination in Dubai.
1
Unwind in style at Banyan Tree Dubai
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.
2
Discover a quirky world inside illusion City
illusion City Dubai is packed with entertainment for all ages. This interactive museum boasts a curated collection of optical, auditory and tactile illusions, along with magic tricks and technological marvels. Even though you may have seen a few similar spectacles around the globe, this family attraction in Dubai promises many exclusively produced experiences that are sure to light up your social media feed.
3
Taste creativity at The London Project
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.
4
Get starry-eyed at Madame Tussauds
The first Madame Tussauds in the Middle East is located at the heart of Bluewaters Island. Fans of all ages can explore themed zones looking for their favourite famous faces and mingle with international stars from the spheres of sports, politics, fashion, media and entertainment – think Justin Bieber, Kylie Jenner, Vin Diesel and more. There's also plenty of regional icons like Emirati-Yemeni music star Balqees Fathi and Lebanese singer Nancy Ajram.
5
Pull up a chair at The Pods
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.
6
Treat yourself at Demon Duck by Alvin Leung
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.
7
Climb into Tr88house
Whether the kids are looking to take on their friends at the interactive play zone or grab a bite at the gourmet food hall, you'll find a lot on offer at the Tr88house indoor play emporium. The littlest patrons can explore multi-storey mazes and ball pits at the Munchkin Monster soft play area, while older kids can jump into the trampoline park, opt for a game of laser tag or master glow-in-the-dark mini golf. Shows where brightly-hued characters mingle add to the excitement.
8
Eat, play and party at Brass Monkey
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.
9
Delight in Italian delicacies at Alici
Forget about making your way to Italy’s Amalfi Coast — simply make your way to Alici instead. From fresh seafood to handmade pasta, a trip across the bridge to Bluewaters Island is all you need for a true taste of southern Italy. With a super setting overlooking the sea and sparkling shores of the lively Jumeirah Beach Residences, this chic restaurant that puts the spotlight on fruits de mer is classy and perfect for a lazy lunch or date night.
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