Every year, London is one of the most popular cities among Arab tourists. Each summer, crowds from our part of the world flock to Britain’s capital to shop, eat and escape the scorching heat in the Middle East. The city is known for its rich history, cosmopolitan nature, amazing shopping spots, unique tourist attractions, and flourishing nightlife. If you’re thinking about visiting London this year, look no further than the recommendations below — we’re taking a tour of London with Ziyad Buainain as our guide, after all, who better to show you around a city than someone who resides in it?

Buainain is a Saudi Arabian fashion designer based in London. He is also the founder of his eponymous conscious luxury label, which celebrates the contemporary woman. Fueled by his innate curiosity and comprehensive research, Buainain highlights the beauty in the unexpected, drawing inspiration from art, culture and human emotion; he’s the perfect guide for any expedition to London this summer! Here’s what he has to say.

FOOD

Restaurants

The River Cafe, Gold, Andrew Edmunds and St. John. “They’re all quite charming and the food is consistently excellent.”

Hidden Gems

Sessions Arts Club. “The interior is stunning and it’s a truly unique dining experience. You need to book at least a month in advance – it’s worth it. Secret Sandwich Shop in Notting Hill is another hidden gem with the most delicious sandwiches. It’s only open at lunch time from 11am to 3pm.”

Bars / Lounges

The Pelican in Notting Hill, One Hundred Shoreditch and The Red Room at The Connaught Hotel. “I like the intimate settings and interiors of both The Red Room and The Pelican. One Hundred Shoreditch has a cool atmosphere, as well.”

Coffee Shop

The Monocle Cafe in Marylebone. “It’s a cozy coffee shop with good coffee and a happy vibe.”

Bakery

Buns From Home in Notting Hill. “Their dulce de leche and pistachio buns are out of this world!”

WORK

Place to work

“I usually work from White City House when I need a change of scenery. One Hundred Shoreditch is also a good place to work if you’re in East London.”

CULTURE

Art Galleries

“So many! But White Cube and Tate Modern usually have the most interesting contemporary art exhibitions. The permanent collection at the Tate Modern is spectacular.”

Bookshop

“Archive Bookstore in Marylebone. It’s a tiny second hand bookshop with lots of great books that are hard to find elsewhere.”

Hidden Gem

Sir John Soane’s Museum. “It’s a really fascinating museum which was formerly the home of neo-classical architect, John Soane.”

Park

Holland Park. “There is a beautiful Japanese style garden within the park made by specialist gardeners who flew in from Japan. Oh, and it has peacocks!”

Theater

“The Old Vic usually has great shows on and then there’s Sadler’s Wells Theatre for the dance lovers.”

Must see

The Wallace Collection. “It’s a gorgeous townhouse filled with 15th-19th century fine and decorative art. It’s a very inspiring space.”

SEEING THE CITY

Club

“It really depends on the day and what events are going on. There is always something fun to do. If you want a more chilled night out – I would recommend Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in Soho.”

Place to chill

“Broadway Market. It has lots of cute restaurants and shops. I recommend going on a nice Saturday afternoon.”

Markets

“Borough Market for the food and Columbia Road Flower Market for flowers and joy.”

SHOPPING

Shopping Center / Mall / Department store

Dover Street Market and Selfridges. “I love their selection of brands and the way the stores are set up to be easy to navigate.”

Independent boutique

Machine-A in Soho. “They have the coolest pieces and I always discover new brands whenever I visit.”

Hidden Gem

Rellik, “a vintage shop with an amazing selection of designer vintage clothing and accessories.”