From February 10, visitors to the Burj Al Arab will be able to enjoy week-long Chinese New Year celebrations. To mark the Year of the Snake, a giant calligraphed serpent will be projected on to the hotel's exterior. Chefs at Junsui restaurant will also be serving up traditional dishes such as fa gao (Chinese-style cupcakes) and nian gao (New Year cake) all week.
Learn to cook at Blue Flame
Blue Flame at Jumeirah Creekside Hotel offers daily cooking classes in its futuristic-looking glass pod, located in the centre of the restaurant. The classes of no more than five people focus on a variety of dishes, so it's worth calling ahead and checking the schedule. From now until February 28, the classes cost Dh300 for two. Call 04 230 8580.
APi Cae Gourmet deals
APi Cae Gourmet in Abu Dhabi has introduced a new à la carte menu and is offering a 10 per cent discount to all guests from now until the end of March. It has also expanded its repertoire of themed children's birthday parties to include classes on cake decorating, making healthy homemade burgers and preparing éclairs. Call 055 565 9411.
Portuguese fare at Four Points
Picante, the Portuguese restaurant at the Four Points by Sheraton, opened its doors this week. The chef Luis Salgueiro has been flown over to take the helm at the rustic-style restaurant, which will serve classic dishes including chicken marinated in Piri Piri sauce. The restaurant is open daily and has both indoor and outdoor seating. Call 04 397 7444.
DinnerTime discount
DinnerTime Delivery service in Dubai has a special offer for loyal customers this week. If you introduce a friend who hasn't tried the service before, then both parties will receive a 50 per cent discount on their February 3 order (reducing it from Dh380 for the week to Dh190). Call 055 790 8733.