What to do in Dubai

Coffee lovers in Dubai, get ready for something special: London-born café WatchHouse has officially arrived in the Middle East with its first location at Marsa Boulevard. Known for its high-quality coffee and a calm, refined atmosphere, WatchHouse has been a hit across the UK and even reached the US, and now it's your turn to taste what all the buzz is about. WatchHouse’s journey began in South London, where its first café opened and quickly earned a loyal following. Since then, it’s expanded into several neighborhoods, and now, it’s ready to bring its signature program to Dubai. The Marsa Boulevard...

If you’re a regular on Dubai’s Red Line, don’t be surprised when Jebel Ali Metro Station suddenly looks a little different — it’s getting a new name. Starting July 2025, Jebel Ali Metro Station will officially become National Paints Metro Station, following a 10-year naming rights agreement announced by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Located in the heart of the Jebel Ali Free Zone, the station serves one of Dubai’s busiest and fastest-developing industrial districts. The rebranding reflects the RTA’s ongoing partnerships with local companies to rename stations across the network. The transition won’t happen overnight. From July through...

Residents and visitors attending the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) can explore a desert-themed pop-up event, The Uncommon x DSF, held at Al Marmoom. This desert pop-up that runs until January 12, 2025, offers unique experiences. Entry is free with a minimum spend of AED 20. This pop-up is part of DSF’s 30th-anniversary celebrations, organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). Opening this Friday, December 20, the event is designed for families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking an engaging desert experience. Entertainment & Activities to Discover at Al Marmoom: Live Music & Performances: Live oud music on weekends....

Dubai just got a new spot that’s sure to be a game-changer for anyone looking for fun. Black Bunny, an indoor amusement park in Al Quoz, is set to open its doors on October 11, and it promises to deliver a high-energy experience packed with games, challenges, and surprises for everyone. Originally launched in India in 2022, Black Bunny is bringing its one-of-a-kind entertainment vibe to Dubai, and it’s designed for both the young and the young at heart. The park’s mascot, a mysterious black bunny in a tuxedo, pops up throughout the venue, from murals to glowing artwork and...

A major shift in regional travel is on the way. Pakistan is preparing to launch its first-ever international ferry service, offering a new and more affordable option to connect with the UAE and other Gulf countries. As for now, airlines dominate this route. But for many travellers — especially those visiting for work or pilgrimage — a ferry could mean a lower-cost, more accessible option. Once operational, the ferry service will provide an alternative to air travel, which is currently the only commercial travel option between Pakistan and the GCC, including the UAE. The new service is expected to serve...

If you’re looking for a great spot to celebrate UAE Flag Day 2025, Global Village is where you’ll want to be. Dubai’s favourite multicultural destination will celebrate the occasion with a stunning Flag Day Drone Show that blends art, light, and national pride in the open desert sky. On Monday, November 3, at 8:30 PM, hundreds of drones will rise above the park, painting the night with intricate formations and vivid colours. Watch as they create dazzling visual effects, forming the UAE flag and a series of breathtaking patterns that pay tribute to the nation’s spirit and unity. View this...

Dubai is about to get a taste of Spain with the arrival of Barrafina, a popular tapas restaurant that’s set to open before the end of 2025. Located in DIFC Gate Village 1, this will be the first of several Barrafina locations to open across the Middle East. The restaurant concept is all about sharing — because as the saying goes, sharing is caring. The idea for Barrafina comes from the Spanish roots of brothers Sam and Eddie Hart, who grew up in Mallorca. Their parents, Tim and Stefa Hart, run the MICHELIN-starred Hambleton Hall in the East Midlands, which...

If you love Italian cars and great food, don’t miss Concorso Italiano UAE this weekend! This exciting event is back for its third edition, bringing together some of the most stunning classic and luxury Italian cars to Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa. Expect a spectacular lineup of rare and iconic models from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Lancia — some of which have never been shown in the UAE before. These beauties come straight from private collections, making this a must-see for car lovers. A panel of experts will judge the cars in several categories, including: Best...

Dubai’s Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) has a brand-new spot for skaters! The freshly opened JLT Skate Park is packed with ramps, pipes, and smooth surfaces perfect for all skill levels — from beginners finding their balance to pros mastering tricks. One of the park’s standout features is its mural "Sidewalk Surfers," created by artist Madeleine Butcher. Covering the park’s surfaces with bold, flowing shapes and nature-inspired patterns, the artwork captures the movement and energy of skate culture. It adds a splash of creativity to JLT, a neighborhood known for its dynamic and artistic vibe. JLT Skate Park is open daily...

If you're ready to challenge yourself and push your limits, the Ultra Trail Dubai (UTD) 2025 is calling your name. Held in the rugged wilderness of Hatta this December, this high-intensity trail race offers a tough challenge for ultra runners and an exciting entry point for road runners looking to make the jump to trail running. The UTD courses take participants across rocky terrain, remote mountain ridgelines, technical descents, and relentless climbs — all while offering stunning views that make every painful step worth it. Whether you're aiming for a podium finish or simply embracing the experience, UTD provides the...