Hospitality

The Graduate’s Guide to the Maldives

Published

3 weeks ago

June 29, 2026

Graduation season lands differently when you’ve spent three or four years surviving deadline season, exam halls and budget pasta. The urge to go somewhere to treat yourself is entirely real.

For university and postgraduates mapping out a summer before recruitment season kicks in, Eri Maldives delivers the Maldives in its purest form, with a price point that makes a spontaneous booking feel less like a gamble and more like a very sensible decision.

An Easy Stop on the Asia Circuit

Male’ International Airport is where you can fly into from various Asian capital cities via direct flights, including regional hubs such as Singapore, Bangkok, Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, and Mumbai, making Eri an easy and logical addition to a multi-destination itinerary that might already be taking in Southeast Asia.

From Male’, the resort is just 45 minutes by speedboat. There is no domestic flight, no inter-island transfer, no additional carbon footprint calculation. It is the perfect detour to bundle a Maldives taster into a longer trip, with the island fitting as a three-night stopover.

Graduate-Friendly Prices in One of the World’s Most Iconic Destinations

The case for Eri doesn’t require softening. A Studio or Beach Villa on Full Board is priced in the £170–£300 (approx. €200–€350) per night range.

To put that in context, a 3-night stay for two, Full Board, with a handful of activities – such as guided snorkelling, a snorkelling safari, an hour of catamaran sailing, and an hour on a SUP board can come in at approximately only £750 (approx. €870) per person, meaning that the total cost of a full stay can be less than the price of a single night at other ultra-luxury counterparts.

Current Summer Escape and Last Minute Island Reset deals offer up to 40% off all room types for stays before 31 October, alongside 10% spa discounts, 15% discounts on select excursions and non-motorised water sports, and other complimentary perks.

Come for the Reef

Eri’s house reef is among the most active and accessible in North Malé Atoll: clear, warm waters averaging 27–29°C year-round, strong marine biodiversity, and conditions that suit first-timers and seasoned divers alike. Reef sharks, manta rays and eagle rays are consistent sightings across the atoll.

Close to the resort, the most reliable residents are turtles. 14 of them are already individually identified by the resident dive team through distinctive shell markings, flipper formations and carapace patterns, each with a name and a documented history. In several cases, the names were given by guests. You can meet the full community in the Eri Turtle Spotting Guide & Directory.

Eri’s water sports menu also reads like an antidote to burnout. On the surface, there’s complimentary guided snorkelling on the house reef, dedicated turtle-search snorkelling tours, longer Snorkelling Safaris by boat, catamaran sailing, SUP, jet ski rides, waterski, wakeboard, and windsurfing lessons.

Why Graduation Is the Right Moment to Learn to Dive

The window post-graduation is time entirely yours. Learning to dive during this time means acquiring a certification valid for life, transferable across every ocean, and one that permanently changes your relationship with every coastal destination you’ll ever visit.

Eri’s Euro-Divers Dive & Water Sports Centre is a fully-equipped PADI 5-Star operation with access to 30 dive sites across North Malé Atoll, spanning coral gardens, channel dives, thilas, and drift dives through current-rich passes. Courses run from entry-level Open Water Diver through to Advanced Open Water, Drift Diver, and Rescue Diver, with all equipment included. For certified divers, the welcome lagoon dive is complimentary, with 5-, 10- and 15-dive packages scaling up to a 6-Day Intensive Plan with nitrox fill options, and boat trips available for single-tank, two-tank, and full-day dives.

When the fins come off, the Eskape Spa offers a natural close to the day. Healing Aromatherapy, the Maldivian Ocean Dream, and a Back to Life massage helps guests to recharge and restore their energy.

Hospitality

JAMES CAFÉ UNVEILS NEW SEASONAL BEVERAGES INSPIRED BY SUMMER FLAVOURS

Published

2 hours ago

July 21, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

From floral matcha blends to bold espresso creations, the new line-up captures the essence of the season in every sip

James Café introduces a new collection of seasonal beverages, bringing together vibrant flavours, elevated ingredients, and a fresh take on café classics.

At the heart of the new menu is a creative exploration of matcha, reimagined through a series of distinctive flavour pairings. From the tangy brightness of Hibiscus Matcha to the soft, aromatic notes of Lavender Matcha, each drink balances the earthy depth of ceremonial-grade matcha with a unique seasonal twist. Variations such as Vanilla Matcha and Berry Matcha introduce a smoother, more indulgent profile, combining creamy textures with subtle sweetness.

For coffee lovers, the offering leans into both comfort and experimentation. The Crème Espresso delivers a rich, full-bodied coffee topped with a silky foam and a hint of vanilla, while the more adventurous Volcano Espresso pairs bold espresso with ginger ale and vanilla, creating a layered drink with a distinctive, slightly smoky finish.

Each beverage is priced at AED 32 and is available across all James Café locations in Abu Dhabi. Designed to reflect the lighter, brighter mood of the season, the menu blends delicate florals, fruity notes, and bold coffee profiles, offering something for every palate, whether you’re looking for something refreshing, indulgent, or quietly comforting.

Highlights from the seasonal menu:

Hibiscus Matcha — a bright, lightly tart blend of green tea and hibiscus
Lavender Matcha — a delicate floral infusion with a smooth, creamy finish
Berry Matcha — a fruity, vibrant take on ceremonial matcha
Vanilla Matcha — soft, comforting, and subtly sweet
Crème Espresso — rich espresso topped with silky foam and vanilla notes
Volcano Espresso — bold espresso with ginger ale and a smoky finish

Locations:
James Café, Al Qana, Abu Dhabi
James Café, Shams Boutik, Reem Island, Abu Dhabi

Hospitality

A Guide to What’s On Across the Next Two Weeks in Abu Dhabi

Published

2 hours ago

July 21, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

Experience the thrill of world-class MMA as the Octagon returns to Abu Dhabi for a night of high-intensity matchups and unforgettable sporting moments. The blockbuster card is headlined by a light heavyweight showdown between former champion Magomed Ankalaev and “Hitman” Bogdan Guskov, with an equally exciting co-main event clash between ranked flyweight Steve Erceg and the undefeated Ramazan Temirov.

Don’t miss: The action-packed preliminary bouts, where rising global talent look to shine in the spotlight and deliver spectacular finishes before the main card begins.

Family-friendly fun

Desert Legacy Summer Camp at Al Ain Zoo, until 24 July – Let children aged 6-12 discover the wonders of the UAE’s desert world through a five-day educational journey inspired by the vision of Sheikh Zayed. Campers can enjoy hands-on activities, from volcano building and fossil digging to Sadu weaving and animal enrichment, with a 20% sibling discount available when using the promo code AAZSUMMERCAMP20.
Fatima Bint Mubarak Academy Summer Camp ‘We Discover Talents’, until 6 August – Keep kids active at this dynamic camp in Al Muzoun, offering an engaging mix of sports like basketball and martial arts alongside confidence-building creative workshops.
Manchester City Football Schools Summer Camp, until 27 August – Young athletes born between 2010 and 2020 can train like champions in this camp led by Manchester City Football School coaches. Taking place at ACTIVE Al Maryah, players can sharpen their technical skills in a professional, fun, and highly engaging environment.
Kids Palace Summer Camp at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, until 4 September – An adventure-filled retreat for kids aged 3-12 featuring mindful activities, Palace explorations, and poolside games, with special savings when enrolling a sibling or a friend.

Culture and discovery

Liwa Date Festival, until 23 July – Discover one of Abu Dhabi’s most celebrated cultural events in the heart of Al Dhafra Region, bringing the UAE’s rich agricultural heritage to life through bustling traditional markets, live Emirati performing arts, and heritage competitions. It’s a family-friendly celebration of heritage that honours the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Workshop: Dhiyafa: Creating an Emirati Coffee Blend, Wednesdays & Fridays, until 28 August – Discover the art of traditional hospitality at Zayed National Museum (Studio Al Thuraya) as guests grind ingredients with a traditional menhas and craft their own signature Arabic coffee blend to take home.

Summer tip: Abu Dhabi’s museums and cultural spaces are a cool and comfortable way to spend a summer afternoon.

For couples, friends and solo travellers

Mazaj Sunday Brunch at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, every Sunday (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM), until 30 July – Spend a Sunday savouring Lebanese cuisine, live music and scenic waterfront views, complete with complimentary pool and beach access for the rest of the day.
Fairmont Grand Brunch, Every Saturday (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM), until 31 July – Experience the ultimate weekend gathering with access to three distinct dining experiences across CuiScene, Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill, and Marco’s Italian.
Summer Spa Experience at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, until 30 September – Rebalance and relax with bespoke treatments at the Spa, starting at the Apothecary Bar to craft a custom body scrub and personalised aromatherapy oils.
A Daycation at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, until 31 December – Escape the everyday with a curated day pass, offering pool and beach relaxation and fitness classes at the Exclusive Sports Club.

Summer tip: Reset with a spa treatment, a relaxing day pass or an island staycation, with many summer offers featuring flexible 24-hour cancellation until 30 September.

Looking for a place to stay?

With Kids Go Free at 40 hotels, there’s never been an easier time to plan a short summer escape in Abu Dhabi. Whether booking at a Yas Island resort or a city-centre staycation, many of the emirate’s top attractions are just moments away. Here are a few offers to explore:

Rosewood Abu Dhabi Summer Staycation Experience, until 31 August – Escape to Al Maryah Island with up to 30% savings on luxury accommodations, 20% off treatments at Sense Spa, and AED 350 dining/spa credit for suite bookings.
UAE Residents’ Half Board Exclusive at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, until 31 August – Indulge in pristine beach access, the signature St. Regis Butler Service, daily half-board dining at Oléa, and complimentary dining for kids under 12.
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Summer Staycation, until 31 August – Book a 3-night minimum stay where up to two children aged 11 and under stay free, featuring daily breakfast and theme park ticket inclusions.
UAE Residents Staycation at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, until 30 September – Enjoy a prime half-board package where up to two children under 8 stay free, complete with unlimited access to the resort’s newly opened Aqua Park.

Hospitality

DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES SERVES UP A SUMMER OF DINING EXPERIENCES

Published

3 hours ago

July 21, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

This summer, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites is bringing together everything that makes dining in Dubai Marina so enjoyable. Whether starting the morning with breakfast, catching up over coffee, unwinding after work, enjoying a lively brunch with friends or marking a special occasion over dinner, the hotel’s collection of restaurants and lounges offers something for every mood and every moment. From the neighborhood feel of Counter Culture Café and British favorites at The Croft to vibrant evenings at Observatory Lounge and premium steakhouse dining at Prime52, guests can enjoy a full calendar of seasonal experiences, all with the Marina on their doorstep.

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST

Start the day at Counter Culture Café with an all-you-can-eat breakfast designed for easy mornings, weekday catch-ups and weekend plans in the heart of Dubai Marina. Guests can enjoy a weekday buffet or a weekend Chef’s Selection Menu, making it a simple and generous way to begin the day.

WHERE: Counter Culture Café, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Weekdays, 7am to 11am | Weekends, 8am to 4pm PRICE: AED 50 per person FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbhr-dubai-marriott-harbour-hotel-and-suites/dining/dubai-harbour-restaurants/counter-culture-cafe/or call 04 319 4000.

BOTTOMLESS COFFEE

For those looking to work from a lively café setting, meet a friend or settle in after breakfast, Counter Culture Café’s bottomless coffee offer brings together unlimited coffee and 25% off the à la carte menu.

WHERE: Counter Culture Café, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Daily from 10am PRICE: AED 32, including 25% off the à la carte menu FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbhr-dubai-marriott-harbour-hotel-and-suites/dining/dubai-harbour-restaurants/counter-culture-cafe/or call 04 319 4000.

AFTERNOON SIPS AT COUNTER CULTURE CAFÉ

From post-work drinks to casual afternoon plans on the terrace, Counter Culture Café keeps things social with daily Happy Hour and Hello Spritz offers. The venue is also pet-friendly on the terrace, making it a great option for guests stopping by with their four-legged companions.

WHERE: Counter Culture Café, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Happy Hour, daily from 4pm to 7pm | Hello Spritz, daily from 12pm PRICE: Happy Hour from AED 39 | Hello Spritz at AED 40 per spritz or three for AED 99 FOR BOOKINGS: Visit Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites or call 04 319 4000.

BEST OF BRITISH BRUNCH

Fridays at The Croft celebrate British favorites with a family-style sharing menu, drinks packages and Marina views. Designed for relaxed evenings with friends, the brunch brings together hearty dishes, good company and the easy-going atmosphere The Croft is known for.

WHERE: The Croft, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Fridays, 7pm to 10pm PRICE: AED 199 with soft beverages | AED 299 with house beverages for three hours | 2-for-1 on More Cravings soft beverage packages FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbhr-dubai-marriott-harbour-hotel-and-suites/dining/dubai-harbour-restaurants/croft/or call 04 319 4000.

SUNDAY ROAST

A classic Sunday roast takes over The Croft every weekend, serving a traditional roast with all the trimmings. It is a fitting option for families, groups and anyone looking for a comforting Sunday meal in Dubai Marina.

WHERE: The Croft, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Sundays, 12:30pm to 11pm PRICE: AED 150 food only | AED 299 with house beverages for two hours FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbhr-dubai-marriott-harbour-hotel-and-suites/dining/dubai-harbour-restaurants/croft/or call 04 319 4000.

HAPPY HOUR AT THE CROFT

For an easy after-work plan or pre-dinner drink, The Croft’s Happy Hour offers selected beverages against the backdrop of Dubai Marina.

WHERE: The Croft, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Daily, 4pm to 7pm PRICE: Selected beverages from AED 39 FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbhr-dubai-marriott-harbour-hotel-and-suites/dining/dubai-harbour-restaurants/croft/or call 04 319 4000.

SUNDOWN SOCIAL | Happy Hour

Located on the 52nd floor, Observatory Lounge brings sunset drinks together with panoramic views of Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. Sundown Social is ideal for after-work catch-ups, early evening plans and guests looking to take in the view over signature cocktails.

WHERE: Observatory Lounge, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Monday to Saturday, 4pm to 7pm PRICE: Signature cocktails from AED 39 FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.observatorylounge.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

COSMA, THE TALLEST LADIES’ NIGHT IN DUBAI MARINA

Every Tuesday, Observatory Lounge hosts COSMA, its ladies’ night set high above Dubai Marina. With free-flowing drinks, 50% off food and a menu inspired by Asian and Latin American flavours, it offers a midweek night out with skyline views.

WHERE: Observatory Lounge, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Tuesdays, 7pm to 10pm PRICE: AED 98, including free-flowing drinks and 50% off food FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.observatorylounge.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

STARGAZE FRIDAY NIGHT BRUNCH

Stargaze Friday Night Brunch brings together dinner, drinks and 52nd-floor views for an evening brunch at Observatory Lounge. Guests can enjoy a three-course menu, signature sips and the energy of a Friday night setting overlooking the city.

WHERE: Observatory Lounge, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Fridays, 8pm to 11:30pm PRICE: AED 295 with soft beverages | AED 345 with house beverages | AED 395 with premium beverages | 2-for-1 on More Cravings soft beverage packages FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.observatorylounge.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

LIVE LOUNGE BRUNCH

Prime52 Steakhouse brings premium cuts, free-flowing beverages and panoramic Marina views together for its Saturday Live Lounge Brunch. Set on the 52nd floor, the brunch is designed for weekend celebrations and long lunches with a refined steakhouse feel.

WHERE: Prime52 Steakhouse, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Saturdays, 1pm to 4:30pm PRICE: AED 392 with soft beverages | AED 462 with house beverages | AED 552 with signature beverages | AED 812 with champagne | 2-for-1 on More Cravings soft beverage packages FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.prime52.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

FIRST CUT

For early evening dining, Prime52 Steakhouse’s First Cut menu offers a three-course experience featuring steakhouse favourites in an intimate 52nd-floor setting. It is ideal for pre-evening plans, business dinners or a refined start to the night.

WHERE: Prime52 Steakhouse, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Daily, 6pm to 8pm PRICE: AED 245 per person for three courses FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.prime52.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

TOMAHAWK RITUALS

Designed for sharing, Tomahawk Rituals at Prime52 Steakhouse brings together a tomahawk experience for two, complete with a starter, dessert and bottle of red wine. It is a fitting choice for guests looking to make dinner the main event.

WHERE: Prime52 Steakhouse, https://www.prime52.ae/, Dubai Marina WHEN: Daily, 6pm to 11pm PRICE: AED 792 for two, including a bottle of red wine, starter and dessert FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.prime52.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

DATE NIGHT THURSDAYS

Prime52 Steakhouse sets the scene for Date Night Thursdays with a dinner experience for two, complete with a glass of bubbly. With Marina views, premium cuts and a refined setting, it offers an easy option for couples looking to mark the evening.

WHERE: Prime52 Steakhouse, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina WHEN: Thursdays, 7pm to 11pm PRICE: AED 595 per couple, including a glass of bubbly FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.prime52.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

PIANO NIGHTS

Prime52 Steakhouse adds live piano performances to Wednesday and Friday evenings, creating a warm soundtrack for dinner high above Dubai Marina.

WHERE: Prime52 Steakhouse, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marin WHEN: Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30pm PRICE: À la carte FOR BOOKINGS: Visit https://www.prime52.ae/or call 04 319 4000.

This summer, discover four distinct dining experiences, each with its own personality, all under one roof at Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites.