5 Must-See Spots in the Middle East and Africa
From the bustling markets of Cairo to the futuristic skyline of Dubai, passing through the vibrant energy of Riyadh and the tropical elegance of Abidjan, these capitals offer a fascinating blend of culture, design, and unique experiences. At the crossroads of diverse influences, they redefine trends and celebrate the art of living in all its forms.
Abidjan, Ivory Coast
This tropical, French-speaking city is the economic capital of the Ivory Coast. The key areas are Plateau, the Business Quarter, and wealthy Cocody for shopping and restaurants. A burgeoning art scene appeals to creatives, and the nearby UNESCO Grand Bassam to beach lovers. ELLE Ivory Coast guides you.
Le Comptoir de Cocody
ITC Ivoire Trade Center, Blvd Hassan 11, Cocody
Set in the Ivoire Trade Center (a venue for 2024’s inaugural Abidjan Fashion Week), Le Comptoir offers a modern take on Ivorian cuisine. Chic interiors are done in teal and neutrals, with a long, blue-tiled bar and woven lampshades. Portions are huge, so go hungry for dishes such as chicken stew with plantain and Creole jambalaya.
Bushman Café
Riviera 4, Mpouto quartier Ciad, Cocody
This café/guesthouse/creative hub is the place to hang out in Abidjan, with live music, workshops, rooftop parties, and African art everywhere. Food is classic Ivorian: alloco (fried plantains seasoned with spices and chili pepper sauce) and pa pa pa chicken in cocoa butter.
Maison Palmier
Rue des Jardins X, Carrefour Duncan, Deux Plateaux
With 200 varieties of palm trees in the shady garden, a green Brazilian marble pool, terrazzo flooring, local artwork, and accents of coral and sage in the 72 rooms, Abidjan’s first boutique hotel is a stylish urban oasis. White, low-rise buildings, linked by winding garden paths, include Le Bar and Le Bistro Palmier.
Sky Bar
Noom Hotel Abidjan Plateau, Boulevard de Gaulle
Next to Noom’s Afro/Asian fusion restaurant Ayoka (grouper green curry, prawns with spicy ginger) on the 21st floor, Sky Bar is where to head for the best panoramas of the city and the Ébrié Lagoon. Go at sunset for a gin fizz or a negroni on the terrace, just as the skyline lights up.
Ibrahim Fernandez
Marcoy, Zone 4, Blvd de Marseille
An award-winning designer known for celebrating African culture through fashion, Ibrahim Fernandez features the vibrant patterns typical of African wax prints, combined with modern cuts and silhouettes. He is part of a growing movement of West African designers gaining international recognition for their innovative ideas, drawing from their cultural roots, while embracing global trends.
Couleur Concept
Rue B28, près de l’Institut Cœur de Grace, Cocody Danga
Owned by Ivorian Fabienne Dervain Vedelago, whose aim is to promote African designers and showcase their creativity, this concept store stocks fashion, accessories, and beauty brands. Look out for the bold prints and flowing styles of eco-label Diarrablu, and Dye Lab’s vibrant, hand-dyed caftans, all 100-percent African.
Keemala
Deux plateaux, 05
This peaceful Thai-style sanctuary has an outdoor lagoon-like pool and waterfall and white, cave-like interiors. Go for traditional Thai deep-tissue massages, body scrubs, and foot reflexology.
Odena Spa & Bien-Être
Rue Paul Langevin, Zone 4, Bietry, 26
Take some time out here for a shiatsu massage, hanakasumi treatment (body rub with exfoliating gloves), or a revitalizing bath. And how could you resist a marmalade, amber, and balsamic body scrub?
Sofitel Spa at Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire
Boulevard Hassan II, Cocody, 08
This super-luxe wellness space features Gemology (mineralogy-based skin care), and Cinq Mondes, the best of global beauty treatments. Book an aromatic spice scrub from Java, a Balinese massage, or a rejuvenating Japanese Ko BI Do facial.
Assinie Mafia
About a 90-minutes drive east from Abidjan, you will find the fishing village-turned-coastal-resort of Assinie Mafia, set on Aby Lagoon. Take a pirogue to the sandy beach, book a boat trip around the lagoon’s six Ehotilé islands, or head to one of the beach clubs for water sports and quad bikes.
Le West Bar & Restaurant
Blvd Valéry Giscard d’Estaing – Marcory 4
Head to this lively nightspot for industrial-chic interiors, Nikkei cuisine, and some of the best cocktails in town. Try the Wagyu brochettes and octopus batayaki and order a spicy margarita before hitting the dance floor. There is live music from the likes of Fally Ipupa, and DJs playing R&B, amapiano, hip-hop, and Afro-house keep the mood upbeat.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The largest of the seven Emirates, it is a modern, cosmopolitan city known for its striking architecture, luxury lifestyle, and deep-rooted cultural heritage. Landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi showcase the commitment to both tradition and innovation. ELLE Arabia guides you.
Hanar
FJ63+4Q6 Yas Bay Waterfront
This is one of the newest additions to foodie hotspot Yas Bay, from the minds behind Daikan (a short walk away). Traverse Mesopotamian and Anatolian cuisine, from Wagyu-topped hummus or whipped feta with charred peach to a plate of charcoal-grilled, Turkish-spiced lamb chops. The earth-toned interiors, deep red booths, and open kitchen add to the convivial spirit.
Meylas
Al Raha Beach, Al Muneera
Starting as a food truck, this hidden gem (you’ll spot the bright red chairs) serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine on Al Muneera Island, with beach views. Founded by two sisters, this is a place with soul, rustic interiors and embroidered seat cushions. You can watch as the chefs prepare Emirati dishes; a standout dish is the semach mashway (grilled fish with white rice and local ghee).
Erth
Khor Al Maqta, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Road
A precious landmark, once the UAE Armed Forces’ recreational center, this hotel is named after its “legacy” in Arabic. From supremely elegant rooms and villas to a private beach, and six restaurants, the list goes on. Choose from Emirati cuisine, an Arabic-style café, and even Neapolitan fare. Tradition shines through with the lush green Al Fayy Garden and on-site mosque.
Remede Spa, St. Regis Abu Dhabi
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Tower, Corniche
The image of opulence, this spa is an oasis of gold accents and bright mosaics. Choose from “Caroline’s Collection,” which pays homage to Caroline Astor, a curator of New York high society in the 19th century. For instance, the “Flawless Garden Rose” sensory experience uses porcelain flower oils, a granita body scrub, and a full-body massage. There are also wellness rituals (magnesium rejuvenation) and, of course, facial treatments.
The EDITION Spa
The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina
With seven private treatment suites, saunas, steam rooms, and a serene relaxation lounge, this is the place to switch off. The soft, organic interiors pair exquisitely with hand-blended tonics. Try the “Travelers Corner”: a full-body scrub, targeted massage, and an express facial or foot massage. There is also an in-house salon for cuts, styling, and hair-spa experiences.
Anantara Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, Bateen Liwa
The Empty Quarter, the world’s largest sand desert, is a bucket list destination for a reason. Set deep in the Liwa Desert, this resort promises unparalleled dune views, an infinity pool, camel rides across the Rub’al Khali, and a breathtaking spa for desert rose rituals. Added bonus? A night at Camp Nujum for starlit dinners and stories of old Arabia around the campfire.
Founded by Emirati designer Heba Al Jasmi, this 100-percent handmade haute couture label creates unique evening dresses, with delicate beading and luxurious materials. Showcasing at spring/summer 2025 Dubai Fashion Week, the latest collection, “State of Art,” lived up to its name, dominated by lace and abstract embroidered prints with a color palette of corals, sea blues, sand, lilac, and green.
Sauce
Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
Avoid the crowded Yas Mall and discover this multi-brand beachwear haven, aptly located at Jumeriah at Saadiyat Island hotel. This is the spot to revamp your summer wardrobe with everything from caftans and dresses to bikinis and beach bags.
Art Lounge
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
After visiting the unmissable Louvre Abu Dhabi, a cultural beacon of creativity uniting the Arabic and French heritage, venture up to this sleek rooftop bar nestled under the grand dome. Ideal for a post-gallery drink, you’ll go for the views over the water and stay for the tapas (sushi, dim sum, tacos) and DJ sets until midnight.
Stratos
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Street
The city’s only revolving bar, it’s not hard to see what makes this place worth the visit. At 25 stories high, after dark it transforms into a decadent nighttime spot with unrivaled views of the Arabian Gulf. Great news: the Sundowners offer means drinks are less pricey during golden hour. Live music is also a Friday night staple.
Cairo, Egypt
This sprawling capital of around 10 million people straddles the Nile river. On the eastern side is historic Islamic Cairo—home to Al-Hussein Mosque and Khan El-Khalili Bazaar—and downtown, you will find Tahrir Square. Head west for Giza’s majestic Pyramids and Sphinx and the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum. ELLE Egypt guides you.
Esca Cueva
New Giza Rd, First 6th of October, Giza Governorate
On a hilltop overlooking Cairo, this extraordinarily beautiful restaurant is a series of cave-like spaces. All undulating curves and soft lighting, the design was inspired by the desert dunes and the female form. Chef Suzanne Sabah shows equal artistry in dishes such as miso and sorrel sea bass and baby squid with charcoal tapioca.
Marriott Mena House
6 Pyramids Road, Giza
When it comes to location, charm, and heritage, Mena House, which featured in Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, is hard to beat. Built in 1869, right by the wondrous Pyramids, visible from many of the rooms, it has stellar cuisine, a large pool, and gardens of jasmine and palms.
Zooba GEM
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), Kafr Nassar, Al Haram, Giza Governorate
This hip, award-winning street food chain’s flagship store has set up shop here, in the awe-inspiring Grand Egyptian Museum. Fill up on koshari (rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, fried onions, and spicy tomato sauce), foul medames (slow-cooked fava beans), and hawawshi (baked, mince-filled flatbread), and prepare to have your mind blown by the exhibits.
The Rooftop, Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo
Ahmed Ragheb Street 12
Watching the sun set over the Nile should definitely be on your to-do list. Take one glamorous hotel rooftop, a pool you can lounge around, tasty tapas to snack on, a chilled playlist, and the bar’s signature Cosmopolitan or local hibiscus special—and you can consider it ticked off in style.
The Brasserie Egypt
Lake View, Lake House The Club, N Teseen Street
Leather booths, whitewashed brick walls, curved lamp stands, and vintage-style chandeliers are reminiscent of Parisian brasseries and NYC jazz clubs, where performers, bands, and DJs keep a glamorous crowd entertained. Dine on tomahawk steaks or lobster tails, order a lychee martini, and head to the huge terrace where the party happens.
Okhtein
Capital Promenade, Al Sheikh Zayed City, Giza Governorate
Cairo-based siblings Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf are founders of this luxury accessories brand. (Its name translates to “two sisters” in Arabic.) Blending traditional Egyptian craftsmanship with contemporary designs means collaborating with artisans from around the country to create striking jewelry, belts, and colorful leather bags with exquisite brass work.
Maison 69
15 Ismail Mohammed, Abu Al Feda, Zamalek
Founder Amir Fayo created his shop-gallery hybrid focusing on local talent in this lofty space laid out like a home. Ever-changing art installations feature prominently among the fashion, homeware, beauty, and accessories in the different rooms of the house.
Nev Spa & Wellness
Cairo Festival City Mall, Unit 1–160 Village
Pick this 2024 World Luxury Spa Awards winner for excellent body scrubs (try the coconut and sugar), massages (detox lymphatic drainage), or facials (Kobido).
Zo Skin Centre
B13,14 White by The Waterway
One of dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi’s four clinics, the center’s services include some quite hardcore tweakments. Our tip? Go for those with minimal downtime, such as Profhilo and hydrafacials.
Empire Beauty
Al Sadat Axis, New Cairo 1
All kinds of lash and brow treatments, medical pedicures, and nail art are on offer here, but our favorite treat is the Aquafacial, a hydra-dermabrasion which exfoliates and boosts collagen.
Remal Wellness Resort
Beni Salama, Natrn Valley, Madinat Wadi An Natrun, Al Buhayrah
An hour northwest of Cairo in a desert valley, this wellness resort runs yoga and healing retreats. Guest rooms are simple—all calming white with bleached wood—the Salt Spa offers body scrubs, facials, deep tissue, and aromatherapy massages, and nutritious farm-to-table dishes use produce from Remal’s fields.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Renowned for its luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture, economic opportunities and lively nightlife, Dubai has it all. The Burj Khalifa, an 2,723-foot tower, dominates the cityscape dotted with skyscrapers. The so-called “City of Gold” is also the place of extremes, with tourist attractions like no other. ELLE Arabia guides you.
Gigi Rigolatto
J1 Beach–Jumeirah 1
Bringing its stylish blend of laid-back luxury and haute Italian cuisine to the beautiful sands of Jumeirah 1, Gigi Rigoletto is one of Dubai’s hottest beach clubs. Hang out by the pool, on the terraces, or in the shady Mediterranean garden, order a Bellini, and feast on seared bluefin tuna or lemon risotto with caviar.
Al Beiruti
Um Al Sheif, Exit 41, Sheikh Zayed Road
This always-busy Lebanese bistro creates an authentic buzz with its shisha-smoking area, open kitchen, sharing plates, and garden water fountains. Go for the sfeeha Baalbakeye (little pies made with lamb or beef), moutabal, tasty aubergine dip, the classic ful medames, fava beans with cumin, oil and spices, and fried cauliflower with pomegranate seeds.
25hours Hotel One Central
Trade Centre Street, off Sheikh Zayed Road
In a city of glitz and ostentation, 25hours is a design-led anomaly, with its mixed-used sauna (the city’s first), cinema, and eclectic, mismatched interiors. It attracts a hipster crowd with its rooftop pool and bars, parties, and podcast studio, and 434 rooms kitted out with a quirky sense of fun and flair.
Skin Experts Polyclinic
Jumeirah 2
Run by medical specialists, this clinic covers pretty much all your face and body needs with a comprehensive range of treatments, including chemical peels, body wraps, microneedling and cellulite reduction.
Brau Studio
Umm Suqiem 2, Al Wasl Road
The best salon in town for brows and lashes, treatments are done with technical precision. Try brow-shaping and laminating, lash extensions and lifts, semi-permanent makeup, and transformational lash-line tattoos.
Skin Laundry Dubai Marina
Unit R105, Ground Floor, The Residences at Marina Gate 1 Dubai Marina
With a devoted fan base for its laser facials and bespoke treatments, this American brand has two swanky outposts in Dubai. Book a session to boost collagen, break up hyperpigmentation, and calm rosacea and acne scars.
Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve
Too many tourists go dune-bashing (riding the dunes in jeeps), which is bad for the local ecology. To enjoy the desert sustainably, spend a day with an ethical tour company, such as Platinum-Heritage, which offers welfare-checked falconry and camel treks where you can spot gazelles, flamingos, and oryx en route.
Bouguessa
Dubai Design District, Building 7 – 209A–207B
Known for her minimal designs and structured tailoring, Faiza Bouguessa launched her brand in 2014, soon gaining a celebrity fan base with Eva Longoria, Jessica Alba, and Beyoncé, who chose a piece from her very first collection. Under the mentorship of Roland Mouret, she developed her ethos of sophisticated, anywhere-anytime wardrobe staples.
Harvey Nichols
Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Barsha
Inside the impressive Mall of the Emirates, with its ski slope, wrought-iron ceiling dome and 630 stores, the Dubai outpost of Harvey Nichols is all about top-tier luxury labels. It houses around 1,400 brands, including Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, and Erdem, as well as Profile Aveda Salons and a monogramming service.
Bâoli
J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1
This glamorous French Riviera pool and beach club is bringing energy and party vibes to Jumeirah 1. Expect Asian and Mediterranean fusion cuisine, live music, private cabanas, a sun deck, pool islands, and DJs playing house and techno while you sip a cocktail or two.
Eugène Eugène
Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates, Second Floor
With a conservatory vibe, this leafy, glass-roofed brasserie is full of palm and olive trees, vines, and sweet-smelling rosemary, laurel, and sage. In keeping with the horticultural theme, order a Bonheur: raspberry- and chamomile-infused gin, Lillet rosé, and cacao liqueur.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
The capital of Saudi Arabia sits at the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. Once a small desert village along ancient trade routes, it is now a modern city. Historic sites like Diriyah and the National Museum showcase its rich cultural heritage. Riyadh is both a reflection of the past and a gateway to the future. ELLE Arabia guides you.
Nozomi
7448 King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, 4255
For a glamorous dinner that blends Japanese culinary traditions with a European twist, look no further. The low-lit amber ambiance paired with the waterfalls of gold chains and curved wood exudes opulence. Enjoy a Wagyu tataki served warm with a truffle slice, garlic chips, and ginger dressing or the toro, uni, and caviar.
Najd Village
King Abdul Aziz Branch Road
A traditional restaurant offering a totally immersive experience in a reconstructed setting, complete with mud towers and water wheel. Seated on carpets, you will be served on low tables made of woven straw. Taste the authentic Saudi cuisine here, such as Kabsa, a spicy rice with meat, spices, and nuts, Margoog, a dish made with cracked wheat, vegetables, and meat, or Mogalgal. It might look like tourist folklore, but this restaurant is very popular with Saudis.
Stella Sky Lounge
The St. Regis Riyadh, 2941 Makkah Al Mukarramah Road
This upscale rooftop bar and lounge provides stunning panoramic views of the skyline in a sophisticated ambiance with plush seating and a spacious outdoor terrace. An exquisite selection of craft cocktails is complemented by a variety of gourmet appetizers and small plates. It also hosts live music performances, DJ sets, and themed nights.
Café ELLE
Al hada Via riyadh
Breakfast, lunch, or dinner—Café ELLE is a master of understated style. With clean, feminine lines, the space is vibrant yet delicate, colorful yet subtle. As expected from a Parisian café, the patisserie cabinet is the star of the show and part of its art de vivre. Don’t miss ELLE’s signature flaming “croquembouche,” a pastry filled with Madagascan vanilla diplomat cream and coated with pink chocolate.
AlManahil Beauty
Diplomatic Square, Ibn Zahr Street
One of the oldest beauty salons in Riyadh, if your hair could use some TLC, this tried-and-true place should sort you out. Nails, body, and spa services are also on offer, from styling and keratin treatments to mesotherapy and much more.
Base & Boon
DQ, Al Safarat
This futuristic salon adorned with warm pinks, peach, and burgundy hues, orange velvet seating, and glossy tiles is the latest addition to the Base & Boon family. Known for its nail art, lashes, and brow services, it even has a co-working space for freelance beauticians. Exceptional for the city, the salon is unisex, both in its staff and clients.
You’re Chic
7542 King Abudalziz Road
This isn’t just one of the best beauty salons in Riyadh, it’s also the first organic one in the capital. Step in and be greeted by rustic tiled floors and exposed brick walls, with subdued lighting that is immediately soothing. This place is the best for haircuts and treatments that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and fresh.
Wadi Hanifa
This serene valley runs 74 miles from the northwest to the southeast, slicing through the city. Here, you can immerse yourself in lush greenery, man-made lakes, water channels, and diverse wildlife. Whether hiking, cycling, or picnicking by the water, it offers a refreshing retreat in nature. It is also a global destination for long-distance runners.
Ashi Studio
2941 Makkah Al Mukarramah Road
Founded in 2007 by Mohammed Ashi, this world-renowned couture house is all about empowerment and elegance. From Beyoncé to Cynthia Erivo, the designer has dressed some of the biggest names in the industry. He began his career working with Riccardo Tisci at Givenchy before joining Elie Saab. In 2024, he became the first designer from the Gulf to take part in haute couture week in Paris.
FWD by Moksyz
2043 Prince Mohammed Ibn Abdulaziz Road
An “out-of-this-world” concept store with ever-changing projections in the entryway which translate into the store décor, there is a coherent theme throughout here. The unique selection of pieces is constantly rotating international designers, both emerging and established. Choose from fragrances and bags to home décor, skin care, and jewelry.
Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah
King Fahd Road
Seamlessly blending contemporary luxury with Arabian style, the 325 rooms and suites, including its penthouse on two floors, are some of the most spacious in Saudi Arabia for a five-star hotel. Get pampered in the refined ladies-only spa with The Riyadh Radiance treatment, which includes a salt scrub with cinnamon and clove essential oils. For dinner, try one of the six restaurants, the Globe, located in the spectacular glass sphere that crowns the Al Faisaliah Tower.
This story is part of ELLE’s International City Guide. Click the link below to explore all the regions.