Rosemin’s Dubai goes beyond the malls and the gold-dusted ice cream

Dubai doesn’t do subtle—it’s a city of spectacle, where futuristic skyscrapers meet age-old souks, and luxury isn’t just an aesthetic, it’s the default setting. If anyone knows how to navigate its high-gloss, high-energy contrasts, it’s Rosemin M Opgenhaffen—the Dubai local that the internet knows as @roseminsworld.

The Toronto native made Dubai her home base in 2007. “From my first visit [to Dubai], I knew this city was special—a magnet for me,” she says. “I instantly felt the safety here, the value system of families, tolerance, and the incredible leadership. It’s a place where female businesses are encouraged to grow, and where East truly meets West in the best way possible.”

Dubai too has embraced her right back. Over the years, she has cemented her status as one of the most influential Indian-origin fashion figures shaping the city’s luxury scene. As the host, presenter, and founder of Dubai-based RR & Co. Luxury Management, she’s not just on every Cat A guest list, she’s also front and centre on the city’s most exclusive red carpets. Her Instagram grid is proof: she’s seen hosting the Desert Rose Gala, taking her front-row seat at fashion weeks, leading conversations on her Dubai One talk show and collaborating with industry titans like Tom Ford and Chanel.

Here, she gives us an insider’s guide to the city—from its coolest concept boutiques to her favourite Emirati designer finds and the most sought-after dining experiences.

The coolest gift shop beyond the malls

My personal favourite is O’de Rose on 999 Al Wasl Road. I always find wonderful gift ideas by talented designers from Lebanon to Syria—beautiful accessories and accents for the home. I also love jewellery brands such as Rock by GS and Bil Arabi—both are unmissable, and even have a great home collection. There’s also That Concept—though it’s in the Mall of the Emirates, it has a great edit of homegrown luxury brands.

An architectural marvel you shouldn’t miss

The Museum of the Future. An architectural wonder, designed by Shaun Killa, it features seven floors dedicated to exploring the future of science, technology and innovation. The uniquely shaped building has Arabic calligraphy on the outside, showcasing a poem written by Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

An Emirati label to bring home

Bambah by Maha Rasheed is a brand I’ve been wearing for years, especially for their feminine dresses and resort wear. There are many talented Emirati designers known for chic, minimalist abayas, such as Manaal Al Hammadi. For elegant eveningwear, Abu Dhabi-based Hamda Al Fahim is a must-buy.

Dubai’s best-kept secret for pre-loved and vintage luxury

There has been a surge in the pre-loved space, but if you're looking to clear out your closet or find a vintage fashion treasure, check out Garderobe Dubai on Al Wasl Road or the Luxury Closet.

A luxury dining experience to prebook

Shi (Bluewaters Island) has exceptional Chinese fusion cuisine, a stunning waterfront view and private rooms. I love good live music, so for a fun night out, Aretha at St. Regis The Palm, is the perfect place to dine. La Maison Ani is my go-to for lunch after a day of shopping at the Dubai Mall. I’m a big fan of Chef Izu so you’ll often find me sitting at the La Maison Ani terrace with a coffee and possibly the best cheesecake ever!

A dish you cannot leave without trying

The pistachio cake at Home Bakery is their standout dish. The legendary bakery is also an inspiring story of a female Emirati entrepreneur [Hind Al Mulla] who turned her passion for baking into a successful business.

A new find that should be on everyone’s radar

A new area called J1 has opened, featuring high-end beach clubs like Gigi, Baoli and my personal favourite, Sirene by Gaia. Whether for lunch or dinner, you’re guaranteed a great vibe here. Every time I visit Sirene, I feel like I’ve travelled to Greece—not just because of the decor but also the food, where you can select your own fish and, of course, the exceptional service.

The most unexpected souvenir to take back

Currently, everyone is asking me to bring them something from FIX Chocolate, known for its signature fillings, especially their ‘Can't Get Knafeh of It’, the one with crispy knafeh, pistachio, tahini and dark chocolate.

A beauty indulgence you won’t regret

For microblading, I swear by the team at Brow and Beauty Dubai. A good hammam is the secret to a perfect tan and glowing skin. For a luxurious hotel experience, the One & Only Royal Mirage is a great choice, while Snob Beauty Salon in Jumeirah offers a more boutique experience.

The best place to grab breakfast and coffee

I love that there are so many locally founded cafés throughout the city, like Kulture House, which features a mini concept boutique within the café. The menu offers a unique Emirati fusion. Most of the time, you’ll find me at Tashas Cafe for breakfast—classic eggs and the best salads in town. For a quick lunch, I love the sushi at Kokoro Handroll Bar on Al Serkal Avenue. They don’t take reservations, and it’s a small spot, but make it a point to eat there on your trip.

Adventure seekers cannot leave without...

Experiencing Old Dubai—take an abra boat ride, visit the local markets, and explore the cafés. Book a desert safari with Sonara or Platinum Heritage and customise your experience. I've also gone skydiving twice now, and it’s incredible—the views of the city as you float over the marina are breathtaking. This happens at Skydive Dubai.

A Dubai thing to do that doesn’t cost a dirham

Kite Beach definitely has a vibe. Spend a day by the beach and grab a bite at the food trucks. Weekends are always busy, but I prefer going on weekdays to get my steps in. 

A supermarket find you have to try

Pick up sweet treats from Zad Foods. Most of the sweets here are made from date sugar, and all the products are produced in the UAE.

A buzzing neighbourhood made for hours of browsing and shopping

You can find many designer studios in the D3 [Dubai Design District] area for evening wear, but my personal favourites are Rami Al Ali and Dina Melwani—both known for their exceptional designs and exquisite embroidery.

An event in Dubai worth planning a trip around

Art Dubai. This year, it’s happening in mid-April (April 18 to 20), with the main fair taking place at Madinat Jumeirah.

A short escape to plan outside of Dubai

In just an hour’s drive, you can visit the Sharjah Biennial, which currently has a programme in place. Make the trip to Abu Dhabi as well to explore the Louvre Museum, Abrahamic House, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Qasr Al Watan and the Baps Hindu Mandir. But for art fans who don’t want to travel, there is Al Serkal Avenue in Al Quoz.

A local place to hit to keep up with your fitness goals

For me, Pilates is an integral part of my routine. I personally like Pure Pilates for one-on-one sessions and Reform Athletica for classes. Sha Wellness is opening soon—I can’t wait!