Glitzy places featured in the Real Housewives of Dubai
Since the premiere of The Real Housewives of Dubai, the six desert-dwelling besties have us all hooked on the turbulent happenings in their opulent lives. The glamorous dresses, high-end locations and even the camels in the series have us even more obsessed with the City of Gold! So whack on your glad rags as we take you on a whirlwind tour of the featured cafes, hotels and restaurants in The Real Housewives of Dubai.
FEATURED RESTAURANTS IN THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF DUBAI
The 11th installment of Bravo’s immensely popular reality TV franchise, and the first international iteration, Real Housewives of Dubai follows a group of six lavishly opulent women as they indulge themselves in the emirate’s luxurious social scene. We’re party to all the sass, drama, and of course, all the arguments! But where does all the juicy action take place? Against the backdrop of Dubai’s most glamorous and alluring establishments of course! So, without further ado, let’s dive right in and find out which cafes, restaurants and hotels our favourite Dubai housewives are frequenting.
GAIA
The brainchild of Evgeny Kuzin (founder of the Bulldozer Group) and Chef Izu Ani, GAIA is one of the most high-profile restaurants to have featured in the Real Housewives of Dubai. Named after the Greek goddess of Earth, the restaurant is preserving the very core and essence of Greek-Mediterranean cuisine. It is undoubtedly one of the top DIFC restaurants. Their succulent lobster pasta, roasted chicken and fried calamari keep patrons coming back for more.
- Location: Dubai International Financial Centre, Gate Village Number 4
- Average Cost for Two: From AED 450
- Timings: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 03:30 pm | 07:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Contact: +971-4-241-4242
SCALINI
Restaurant Village at the Four Seasons Resort on Jumeirah Beach is home to some truly excellent eateries, with Scalini being one of the finest. With a charismatic ambience and a combination of alluring flavours from London and Italy, the restaurant is a bonafide favourite with the Real Housewives of Dubai. You’ll find a versatile and eclectic menu with plenty of options, including scampi, rucola parmigiano datterini and milanese.
- Location: Restaurant Village, Near Four Seasons Hotel, Jumeirah Road
- Average Cost for Two: From AED 470
- Timings: Monday to Sunday 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Contact: +971-4-349-0068
FI’LIA
Next on our list of restaurants in The Real Housewives of Dubai is Fi’lia. Empowered women and honest Italian food make Fi’lia a ‘one of a kind’ restaurant in the city. It is one of the popular female-led restaurants in Dubai with a Michelin Bib Gourmand Award to its name.
Their saffron arancini, beef tartare and burrata popolare are amongst the many menu favourites. They also serve an extensively exotic array of beverages, both with alcohol and without.
- Location: SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Business Bay
- Average Cost for Two: From AED 550
- Timings: 12:00 pm – 03:30 pm (Lunch)| 06:30 pm – 12:00 am (Dinner)
- Contact: +971-4-607-0770
DESEO
A fusion of Latin-American cuisine amidst boho-chic surroundings, we aren’t surprised that the housewives frequent this classy restaurant. Aesthetically pleasing and somewhat of a garden paradise, this world-class eatery is housed at the impressively opulent Opus ME by Melia Hotel.
Their tequila, mezcal and sugar cane spirits transport patrons straight to the shores of Mexico. Live performances from the resident DJ and Tulum-style tones promise heady nights of adventure. Don’t be surprised if you end up spending more time here than you planned!
- Location: ME Dubai, Business Bay
- Timings: 12:00 pm – 03:00 pm | 06:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Contact: +971-4-525-2500
NAMMOS
This outstanding restaurant delivers a combination of Dubai magic and Mediterranean elegance. Ever since Nammos opened its doors, they have been redefining the boundaries of luxury, an intoxicating grandeur which was too much for our favourite housewives to resist.
The food here is a true culinary journey. So if you’re ready for a gastronomic experience you’ll never forget, it’s time to add Nammos to your ”I must eat here” list.
- Location: Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah 2
- Timings: 12:30 pm – 02:00 am
- Contact: +971-4-340-1002
SHANGHAI ME
Located in DIFC, Shanghai Me is the epitome of elegance and art. The restaurant is certainly one of the most prominent places featured in The Real Housewives of Dubai. As the name suggests, the food here takes inspiration from East Asia, featuring the rich heritage of the region with just the right amount of playfulness.
- Location: Podium Level, Gate Village 11, DIFC
- Average Cost for Two: From AED 425
- Timings: 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm | 06:00 pm – 11:45 pm
- Contact: +971-4-564-0505
LADUREE
This Parisian tea room boasting the French Art de Vivre doesn’t need any introduction. And honestly, we were excited to see this stunning artisan cafe featured in the series. Famous for its delicate macarons and considered one of the best patisseries in Dubai, Laduree is the perfect place for a luxurious afternoon tea.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Average Cost for Two: From AED 230
- Timings: Monday to Thursday 10:00 am – 12:00 am | Friday to Sunday 10:00 am – 01:00 am (Dubai Mall)
- Contact: +971-4-339-8520 (Dubai Mall)
CE LA VIE
Ce La Vie, which literally translates to “This Is Life”, was born in Southeast Asia. We see the real housewives of Dubai attending a rooftop dinner at this classy restaurant. It is located within the Address Sky View in Downtown Dubai. Though some of the ladies ended up in a heated disagreement (not for the first time!), we couldn’t help but swoon over the artistic influence reflected in the ambience and cuisine of Ce La Vie.
- Location: Address Sky View, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
- Average Cost for Two: From AED 350
- Timings: 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm (lunch) | 06:00 pm to 12:30 am (dinner)
- Contact: +971-4-582-6111
MASSIMO’S
A waterfront terrace, freshly roasted coffee to die for, delicious culinary interpretations of classic Italian recipes and, most importantly, 25 sumptuous flavours of gelato! That’s what you sign up for at Massimo’s. The traditional handmade gelato this authentic Italian cafe is famous for ticks all the right boxes — the perfect composition of tantalisingly smooth textures and vibrant flavours. So if you love that intense creamy goodness that only quality ice cream can provide, you simply have to check out Massimo’s at Dubai Marina.
- Location: Park Island, Waterfront Dubai Marina
- Average Cost for Two: AED 295
- Timings: Monday to Sunday 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Contact: +971-80-043-5286
HOTELS IN THE THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF DUBAI
ATLANTIS
It is nearly impossible to talk about Dubai and not mention Atlantis, The Palm. And the housewives would definitely agree because Caroline Stanbury and Nina Ali couldn’t resist the temptation of bringing their families for a staycation at the hotel’s famous underwater suites. These suites are a true treat — providing a heady mix of luxury and tranquillity.
With hard-to-ignore features like floor-to-ceiling windows and marble bathtubs with views of the Ambassador Lagoon, these mind-blowing suites are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the world.
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm, Crescent Road, The Palm Jumeirah
- Contact: +971-4-426-1000 | +971-4-426-2000
PALAZZO VERSACE
The real housewives seem to have this luxurious hotel on their favourites list…and it’s no surprise. With 9 world-class bars and restaurants, the Palazzo is the epitome of Dubai opulence. This 5-star hotel is a tribute to Versace’s signature works and offers guests and visitors the opportunity for delicious al fresco dining with stunning views of Dubai Creek.
If you’re looking for a cosy setting with charming interiors and sumptuous Italian food, Vanitas will not disappoint. Or, if you’re a fan of Gianni Versace’s ornate compositions, Mosaico at the Palazzo is a must-visit. Other restaurants and bars include Enigma, Q’s Bar and Lounge, La Vita, Giardino, Gazebo, Amalfi and La Piscina.
When it comes to the accommodation at the Palazzo Versace, there are 215 luxurious rooms and suites, all equipped with modern amenities and state-of-the-art facilities. It seems like the housewives are fans of the resort’s parquet flooring, elaborate white and cream boiseries, as well as pastel silk furnishings. And honestly? So are we!
- Location: Jaddaf Waterfront, Al Jaddaf
- Contact: +971-4-556-8888
RAFFLES THE PALM
It had been quite the build-up, but in episode 08 “Drama in the Sandbox”, Caroline Stanbury finally tied the knot with her (very emotional!) fiancé Sergio Carrallo. The glamorous event was graced by the couple’s family, friends, and fellow RHoD cast members, Nina Ali and Sara Al Madani. But where did the wedding of the year actually take place?
Well, we can reveal that Caroline and Sergio said their vowels at none other than the luxurious Raffles The Palm! This 5-star beach palace, marketed as being ”crafted by masters for connoisseurs”, is renowned for its pure opulence. Palatial, regal, beautiful – and other such superlatives are fully justified. We can’t help but praise Caroline for choosing this paradise-like resort as her wedding venue – bravo Mrs Carrallo!
Located on one of The Palm’s finest beaches, the hotel boasts aesthetically-stunning interiors that were meticulously crafted by Europe’s finest artisans. With almost impossibly glamorous rooms, suites and villas, 6 world-class restaurants, and the mesmerising Cinq Mondes Spa, it’s easy to see why Caroline S was so enchanted with the resort. Literally everything at Raffles The Palm is a celebration of vibrant 21st luxury.
- Location: West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah
- Contact: +971-4-248-8888
ATTRACTIONS FEATURED IN THE SERIES
AIN DUBAI PODS
What better place to celebrate Thanksgiving than with a view of the glistening skyline of Dubai? Well, Nina from the real housewives would certainly agree. Nina Ali, her family, and fellow housewife, Sara Al-Madani, took to the skies to celebrate the famous American national holiday in an Ain Dubai pod! Dubbed as the world’s tallest observation wheel, this landmark has a staggering height of 250m.
Each leg of the wheel is 126m high (long enough to fit 15 London buses). The unforgettable surroundings of Ain Dubai make it a celebratory place and a must-visit attraction in the emirate.
(Please note that Ain Dubai is currently closed for renovations)
- Location: Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island
- Contact: +971-4-428-0411
DUBAI FRAME
Known as the bridge between old and new Dubai, this attraction is a must-visit in the emirate. It is an architectural wonder and it’s no wonder it found its way into the first episode of Real House Housewives of Dubai. Emirati housewife Sara Al-Madani brought her children here for an unforgettable experience. The design of the Dubai Frame was envisioned by Fernando Donis and it’s the largest frame in the world at 150m in height.
You’ll truly experience the transformation of Dubai here, starting from the mezzanine. The exhibits include the emirate’s transformation from a fishing outpost to the thriving metropolis we live in today. The sky deck level offers a bird’s eye view of the city from all sides, Old Dubai to the north and New Dubai to the south.
- Location: Zabeel Park, Gate 4
- Ticket Price: From AED 50 | Free entry for children under 3 years and people of determination
- Timings: Monday to Sunday 9:00 am – 09:00 pm
- Contact: +971-80-0900
NARA ESCAPE
In episode 7 of the series ”Meet the Carrallos”, Caroline Stanbury and Sergio held their engagement party at Nara Escape’s magical Sonara Camp Dubai.
One of two Nara Escape desert camps (the other being Sonara Al Wadi at the Ritz Carlton in Ras Al Khaimah), Sonara Camp Dubai is a beautifully authentic, eco-friendly camp located within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Utilising solar energy and employing a zero-waste policy, this enchanting event space, nestled amidst the dunes of the Arabian desert, provides memories that will last a lifetime.
The Sonara Camp experience wasn’t quite as enjoyable for two of our housewives though. With the engagement party for a backdrop, Caroline Brooks and Sara’s recent disagreement escalated into a full-blown argument that saw the show’s producers having to intervene!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ARE THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF DUBAI ACTUALLY FROM DUBAI?
Sara is an Emirati, with the other housewives hailing from different countries, but all being long-term residents of Dubai.
WAS CAROLINE STANBURY IN ANOTHER REALITY TV SHOW BEFORE THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF DUBAI?
Yes! There’s a reason Caroline looks familiar. She appeared on Bravo reality show ”Ladies of London” from 2014 – 2017.
And that’s a wrap on all the featured hotels, cafes and restaurants in The Real Housewives of Dubai. The show truly features the flamboyant lifestyle of the city, giving us a glimpse of its ever-alluring top attractions.
This isn’t the first time the emirate has caught the eye of filmmakers, as you can see in our guide to all the Hollywood and Bollywood movies filmed in Dubai.
And if you want to enjoy world-class cuisine like the housewives of Dubai, our guide to the best restaurants in Dubai is a must-read. Looking for even more luxury? These 5-star hotels in Dubai are calling you!
We hope you enjoy exploring all the cafes, hotels, attractions and featured restaurants in the Real Housewives of Dubai. Go grab yourself a slice of glamour! What’s your favourite restaurant in the city? Please do let us know in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!
The cover image is courtesy of Bravo TV’s official website.
