Bussola marked its 20th anniversary last weekend, an impressive milestone for any Dubai restaurant, especially in a city that moves as fast as this one. When Bussola first opened, it stood alone on the beachfront long before the current marina skyline or the new Dubai Harbour existed. Today it sits within The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, yet it has kept the same consistency and familiarity that long-term residents will recognise instantly. If you have lived in Dubai for a while, you will know it is one of the few places that never disappoints, and it is somewhere people naturally return to.

Dubai's luxury scene just got a significant upgrade with the arrival of Iliana, the glamorous new Greek-Mediterranean destination nestled within the breathtaking Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Inspired by the simple elegance and vibrant flavours of the Cycladic islands, Iliana first opened its doors earlier this year, quickly establishing itself as a sophisticated, three-part venue. From its chic restaurant offering authentic coastal cuisine and its luxurious pool club perfect for day-long relaxation, Iliana is already a must-visit. Yet, the final, and perhaps most anticipated, element of this concept has just been unveiled: the stunning Iliana rooftop.

Set above the shoreline at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Ginger Moon offers something new to the city: a beach club experience without the beach. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Harbour, with the towers of Dubai Marina rising behind, it’s a relaxed space designed for long afternoons and evenings.

At its centre, a large olive tree grows up from the valet area two floors below and stretches through the heart of the restaurant, forming the bar canopy with seating all around. The kitchen is open, so you can see the chefs at work, and there’s a choice between indoor tables or breezy outdoor seating. We visited for dinner (kindly gifted) and stayed well into the night.