1. Hidden gem: Cafe Arabia
Tucked neatly between the villas around Karamah Street is the sweetest little cafe, complete with yellow awning and a mini patio. The dimly lit venue is perfect for relaxed get-togethers and a light bite. As well as its delicious, traditional Arabic cuisine (which includes our favourite spiced tea in town), Cafe Arabia has a shopping section where you can pick up great fair-trade gifts such as tea sets, camel's milk chocolates and coasters. The owner, Aida Mansour, aims to create a cosy environment for her customers and insists on keeping the food similar to what would be served in a traditional Arabic home. Mansour is also keen on answering questions from anyone who isn't familiar with the region's culture and traditions, and strives to bridge those cultural differences in Cafe Arabia. Cafe Arabia, 15th Street between Karamah and Airport Road, opposite Mushrif Park, 02 643 9699
2. Galactic bag
Evening clutches can't get cooler than these hexagonal creations for Bulgari by Matthew Williamson. We love the kaleidoscope of pattern and colour that will take us through many seasons to come. The strong lines are sharp enough to pair with tailored pieces while the print adds a bohemian touch to bring some dazzle to your maxidress. Dh7,400, Bulgari, exclusive to Dubai Mall, 04 330 8834
3. 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' at Carbon 12
We knew this exhibition was going to be a winner. With a name like this at one of Dubai's top art galleries how could it not be? Featuring works by Erwin Olaf, Farzan Sadjadi, Gil Heitor Cortesao (see right) and Ralf Ziervogel, to name a few, this exhibition is a must-see. Make sure you stop by the Al Quoz gallery to catch it. Al Quoz 1, Street 8, Al Serkal Avenue, Warehouse D37, 050 873 9623
4. Hear me roar
We at M love a good leopard print. Shoes, bags, even trousers - you name it and we've got it. That's why when these courts tiptoed into the shops we just had to snap up a pair. The flattering style shrinks our ever-growing bunions and makes our feet look dainty. The best part about leopard print is that it works with almost any other colour. Dh489, Abu Dhabi Mall, 02 645 0315; Dubai Mall, 04 339 8786, and elsewhere
5. Freeze frame
No party is complete without a dozen embarrassing photos to look forward to the next day. For our next house bash we want to go all out with the camera fun and rent a photo booth. But any old photo booth just won't do now we have seen Fishfayce. It's a stand-alone, portable, remote-controlled apparatus without the standard four walls, so everyone can join in on the fun. After the event, attendees can download the digital photos straight from Fishfayce's website so you don't have to worry about sending them through to everyone.
Fishfayce, 056 149 4591, www.fishfayce.com
6. Pillow talk
This cushion cover sums up our emotions towards a lot of aspects of life that revolve around a cushion including (but not restricted to) sleeping, watching films on the sofa and lounging on the chaise longue with our latest book. The brown, blue and burgundy tones look great against the pale white base and are a sure way to spice up your living room or bedroom.
Dh269, THE One, Zayed The First Street, Abu Dhabi, 02 681 6500; Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 04 345 6687, and elsewhere