Summer. Heat. Everything around you is melting. You're outside (if you are, don’t forget your hat or cap — seriously, it matters). And of course, the first thing that pops into my head during this heat is, “Where can I get ice cream/gelato?” For people like me, I've collected a few spots to dash to whenever the ice cream craving becomes irresistible.

P.S. While I was writing this, a big tub of Ben & Jerry’s (chocolate with brownie chunks, if you are wondering) was staring me down. I didn’t touch it. But once the text was done... well, you know.

A proper gem for anyone who likes their ice cream with a twist. Temple Creamery is homegrown and full of character — think creamy scoops (vegan and regular) plus all the nostalgic cereals and toppings your inner kid could dream of.

Location: Slō, Al Wasl Road

An old-school legend from Lebanon, Bachir has been scooping joy since 1936. Their signature: rich-as-ever Lebanese-style ice cream topped with crushed pistachios. It is simple, classic, and hits right in the feels.

Location: Galleria Mall — Al Barsha — Al Barsha 2; First Level, City Centre — Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd — Mirdif

Italian through and through. From vanilla and chocolate to pistachio and stracciatella — pick your flavour, then come back to pick another. You probably will.

Location: Mall of Emirates; Dubai Marina Walk; Nakheel Mall

Cool, creative, and very photogenic. Minus Eighteen doesn’t play it safe — they go big on bold flavours and unexpected combos, but still keep it super tasty. Bonus: it is cute inside.

Yasmina Rizk, the founder, always believed in the magical power of ice cream to turn any frown into a smile. Seems like a good time to test that theory.

Location: Al Wasl Square, Unit 36; Dubai Hills — Business Park

Cozy, stylish, and home to what is easily some of the best gelato in the city. Come by and try — as they put it themselves — “the yummiest ice cream.”

Location: The Icon Casa 3, District 12, JVC, Lawns 1

Not just an ice cream stop, but a whole all-day diner vibe. Set in Al Khazzan Park, HAPI does everything from charcoal chicken to bone broth — but their handcrafted ice cream (they even have ice cream sandwiches) is what makes it a sweet stop on a hot day.

You can also order their ice cream directly from the website.

Location: Al Khazzan Park

Straight from Rimini with a little Italian drama (in the best way). At La Romana, you will find traditional flavours — and a few unexpected ones too. Honestly, the place feels a bit like a gelato lab. Sometimes it seems like there are secret flavours hiding in the back, just waiting for the right moment to make their debut.

Location: Nakheel Mall; Dubai Hills Mall; Bluewaters; The Galleria Al Maryah Island; Mirdif City Centre

Probably the last place you would think of when it comes to ice cream — we all go there for other things. But turns out, you should definitely be going there for the ice cream too. It is ridiculously good. Tried and tested.