As the cooler winds draw in, the editors at Villa 88 have compiled a list of all the best new exhibitions, openings, and places to be this season…
Created in collaboration with Swiss luxury watchmaker Richard Mille, the fifth edition of Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Here is set to be the most spectacular one yet. Running from October 8 under the theme of ‘Shadows’, the exhibition highlights the interplay of light and darkness in both Arabic and Japanese cultures. Featuring emerging artists from across the GCC, Japan, and the wider MENA region, the show will crown one of the talents as the winner of the prestigious Richard Mille Art Prize in December.
Visit louvreabudhabi.ae
Following the success of its branch in DIFC, modern Greek restaurant Avli by tashas has recently opened its second location at Bahrain Harbour, Manama. Inspired by the warm tones and rustic charm of ‘avlis’ (elegant outdoor Mediterranean courtyards) the tempting menu spans authentic Greek mezze, salads, vegan delicacies, seafood, slow-cooked meats, and much more.
Visit avlibytashas.com
Check out Constructing the Orient: Fragments of a Western Dream at Saadiyat Island’s only private art foundation from October 25. Featuring works from the private collection of His Excellency Bassam Said Freiha and rare loans from the Mathias Ary Jan Gallery in Paris, the landmark collection provides a fascinating glimpse into how the ‘Orient’ was viewed by Western painters throughout history.
Visit bfaf.ae
A shimmering beacon in the heart of the city, the Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai is one of the most anticipated hotel openings of 2025. Located within the striking 303-metre-tall Wasl Tower (adorned with the region’s tallest ceramic façade) and set to open before the end of the year, it will feature hundreds of stunning rooms and residences, a helipad, a gorgeous two-floor spa, and a 25-metre outdoor lap pool.
The hotel will also be home to various premium dining outlets, including Greek rooftop hideaway NOIA, Asian hotspot Yù & Mì, and rustic Italian eatery Chitarra.
Visit mandarinoriental.com
Starring a mix of powerful paintings and sculptures by leading African contemporary artists, the latest exhibition at Efie Gallery’s new Alserkal Avenue location beautifully portrays the complexities of our ever-changing society, and how art can remain resilient during turbulent times.
Running until January 10th 2026, expect plenty of creative works filled with colour, unexpected textures, and repurposed objects and materials. Don’t forget to check out the new Rekord Gallery and its collection of over 2,000 records while you’re there, either.
Visit efiegallery.com
As we wait for the winter season to properly set in, NETTE Al Barari’s newly launched, glass-enclosed, air-conditioned terrace is the ultimate place to gather and relax. Surrounded by lush greenery and starring a reimagined menu of French and Japanese breakfasts, light bites, healthy lunches, and more, the cosy corners are ideal for working and reading, while the signature matcha creations remain as iconic and delicious as ever.
Visit nette.ae
W Hotels, perhaps the world’s quirkiest and funkiest hospitality brand, is making its debut in Saudi Arabia before the year is out. Located in the dynamic business and lifestyle environs of King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the W Riyadh will come complete with the signature W concepts Living Room, WET Deck, and AWAY Spa, along with seven premium dining venues and 210 ultra-luxe rooms and suites.
Visit marriott.com
Dubai-based pizza fans no longer need to travel to the capital for their fix of Antonia’s authentic Pizza al Taglio (Roman-style square pizza slices made with 72-hour-fermented sourdough). Proudly born in Abu Dhabi, the much-loved Italian marque has finally made its way to Dubai, and its fifth branch at Mall of the Emirates is creating quite a buzz.
Visit antoniarestaurant.com
