Hospitality

HOW MEDITERRANEAN DINING IS FINDING A NEW RHYTHM IN DUBAI

Published

6 hours ago

July 21, 2026

Exclusive interview with Selçuk, Co-Founder, Loop

Every great restaurant begins with an idea. What sparked the vision for LOOP, and what gap did you feel existed in Dubai’s dining scene?

LOOP was born from a simple question: What makes people come back to a restaurant again and again? We realised it isn’t just a beautiful space or a trending dish. It’s how a place becomes part of your everyday life.

That’s exactly what we wanted to create—a restaurant people return to whether it’s for a morning coffee, a leisurely Turkish breakfast, a business lunch, dinner with friends or a late-night meal. The name “LOOP” reflects that idea of coming full circle, of becoming part of someone’s routine.

Dubai has countless restaurants designed for special occasions. We wanted to build one designed for everyday moments, where exceptional food, genuine hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere make every visit feel worth repeating.

Business Bay is evolving into one of Dubai’s busiest lifestyle destinations. What made it the perfect home for LOOP?

Business Bay has evolved into far more than a business district. It’s become one of Dubai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, where professionals, residents and visitors all cross paths throughout the day.

That made it the perfect location for an all-day dining concept like LOOP. From early breakfasts and coffee meetings to relaxed lunches, family dinners and late-night gatherings, the area naturally lends itself to every dining occasion.

Being located along the Dubai Canal also allows guests to step away from the pace of the city and enjoy a meal in a setting that feels calm, social and inviting. We wanted LOOP to become the neighbourhood restaurant people think of first, regardless of the hour.

Operating around the clock is an ambitious undertaking. What inspired the decision to create a true 24-hour dining destination?

Food doesn’t follow office hours, and neither do people.

Some guests start their day before sunrise with coffee and breakfast, while others are looking for a quality dinner or comforting meal long after most kitchens have closed. We wanted to remove the idea that there is a “right time” to visit a restaurant.

Operating 24 hours allows us to serve fresh, thoughtfully prepared food whenever our guests choose to dine. Whether it’s an early breakfast spread, a Mediterranean lunch, a family dinner or a late-night bite after work, the same attention to quality and hospitality remains at the centre of every service.

Mediterranean cuisine has become increasingly popular in the UAE. How does LOOP bring its own interpretation to this culinary tradition?

Mediterranean cuisine is all about simplicity, generosity and letting great ingredients speak for themselves, and that’s the philosophy we’ve embraced at LOOP.

Our menu is inspired by the Mediterranean with a distinctive Turkish influence, bringing together vibrant seasonal produce, premium grilled meats, fresh seafood and colourful sharing plates that encourage people to gather around the table.

Rather than reinventing traditional recipes, we focus on refining them through quality ingredients, careful technique and contemporary presentation. Guests can enjoy everything from authentic Turkish breakfast spreads to beautifully grilled kebabs, fresh mezze and signature Mediterranean dishes designed for sharing.

While shisha naturally complements the relaxed atmosphere, it has never defined who we are. Food is the heart of LOOP. Every dish is created to encourage conversation, long meals and the joy of sharing great flavours with family and friends.

Personalisation has become a defining trend in hospitality. How do you ensure returning guests feel recognized without making the experience feel scripted?

For us, personalisation begins with paying attention.

It’s about remembering a guest’s favourite table, knowing how they like their coffee, recommending a new dish based on what they’ve enjoyed before or simply greeting them by name.

We’re also developing the LOOP app to make reservations more seamless and help us better understand our guests’ preferences over time. Technology gives us useful insights, but it’s our team that brings those insights to life through genuine hospitality.

The goal is never to create a scripted experience. It’s to make every returning guest feel naturally welcomed, as though they’re visiting a place that already knows them.

Guests today expect more than great food. How are expectations changing around experience, technology and service?

Guests still come for exceptional food, but what they remember is how a restaurant made them feel.

Today’s diners expect a complete experience: beautifully prepared dishes, attentive service, a comfortable atmosphere and effortless convenience. Every detail matters, from the music and lighting to the pace of service and the way food arrives at the table.

Technology helps us enhance that experience by making reservations easier, streamlining operations and allowing our team to spend more time engaging with guests instead of focusing on processes.

At the end of the day, hospitality remains deeply human. Great food brings people through the door, but genuine service and memorable experiences are what inspire them to come back.

Hospitality

JAMES CAFÉ UNVEILS NEW SEASONAL BEVERAGES INSPIRED BY SUMMER FLAVOURS

Published

27 minutes 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

35 minutes 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

1 hour 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.