What to do in Dubai

Paying for parking in Dubai is about to get a lot more convenient. Salik, the company behind Dubai’s toll gates, is teaming up with Parkonic to expand automatic parking payments to more places across the city. This new system, already working in over 100 locations around the UAE, lets drivers park without tickets, barriers, or payment machines. Instead, the parking fee is taken directly from the driver’s Salik eWallet — no need to tap cards or scan apps. Just drive in, park, and you're good to go. Starting next week, 18 new spots in Dubai will be part of this...

Dubai Safari Park is swinging its gates open for visitors on October 14, marking the start of Season 7. Whether you’re spotting elephants, lemurs, or emus, it's the right place to feel like a little wildlife adventure right in the heart of the city. It’s also one of the few places in town where you can feed a giraffe. Daily feeding sessions give visitors the chance to interact with the animals, from offering snacks to giraffes to hanging out near elephants. You can stroll around at your own pace or catch the shuttle train looping through all 5 zones if...

Najwa Karam will return to Dubai for a live concert at Dubai Opera on September 30, performing tracks from her extensive discography including her newest album, Halet Tawari', which was released in June 2025. A long-standing icon of Arabic music, Karam is known for shaping the Lebanese pop scene since the early 1990s. She earned the nickname "Shams el-Ghinnieh" (The Sun of Arabic Song) early in her career and continues to be a major influence in the region's music industry. A regular guest in UAE, the star is coming back for another stunning performance at Dubai Opera in just 2...

Exciting news for anyone who regularly drives between Dubai and Abu Dhabi: a brand new city-style district is on the way, and it’s going to completely transform the route. AD Ports Group has signed a AED 2.47 billion deal with Mira Developments to create one of Abu Dhabi’s largest mixed-use communities in Al Mamoura, right along the highway. Construction is set to begin within the next year, with the entire project expected to take 10 years to complete. By 2035, the area will look drastically different. Early plans for the project include everything from residential neighborhoods to business complexes, hotels,...

If beach days are back on your mind, Al Mamzar Beach is one to keep on your list. It’s reopening soon, and it’s going to feel like a completely different place. The upgrade is now 88% complete, so most of the work is already done. Night swimming and a women-only beach are two of the main additions, so you can come in the evening and choose a more private setting. The women-only beach will be fully enclosed, with separate access and its own facilities. After a swim, you can rinse off the salty water in a shower and change. All...

Looking for a thrilling new way to stay active while enjoying Dubai's breathtaking Expo City? Mark your calendars for the first-ever SKECHERS Inflatable Obstacle Course Race, happening on November 2, 2024, as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. Participants of all fitness levels can choose between a 2.5km or 5km run through the cutting-edge landscapes of Expo City Dubai, an iconic site blending futuristic architecture with exciting physical challenges. But this isn’t going to be a typical race — it’s an obstacle-packed adventure filled with fun! From giant slides to twisting mazes, the course features nine adrenaline-pumping challenges, including the...

Get ready to explore one of the most vibrant art experiences in Dubai! Bluewaters Art Festival is coming back in Q4 2026 for its second edition. If you missed it last year, make sure to find time to visit this open-air gallery packed with art pieces and immersive installations. The event is free to attend, so all you need is curiosity and a love for creativity. Last April, the festival brought the city’s streets to life with outdoor sculptures, live music, and plenty of activities. This year, you can expect even more incredible works from both international and local artists....

If a Michelin restaurant has been on your list but you didn’t feel like committing to a full fine dining experience, MANĀO has introduced something more easygoing. Their Chef’s Tasting Menu is now available and includes an eight-course experience priced at AED 350/person. This special Thai dinner features wagyu, lobster, scallops, and slow-cooked meats, paired with Thai-inspired flavours, light fermentation, and a touch of fire running through the courses. The menu moves through a mix of textures and flavours, each course bringing something slightly different. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @manao_dubai If you feel like extending...

Souk Madinat Jumeirah is making summer in Dubai more social with a series of brunches and ladies’ nights across its most popular venues. Whether you're looking for a relaxed afternoon indoors, waterfront views, or an upbeat evening out, this line-up covers a variety of cuisines, vibes, and timings. McGettigan’s – Irish Energy with Food and Live Music McGettigan’s brings a lively Irish atmosphere to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, offering great food, a globally inspired menu, and energetic live performances. It's a welcoming venue for any occasion.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by McGettigan’s Souk Madinat...

One of Abu Dhabi’s most celebrated Italian eateries finally arrived to Dubai. Antonia, known for its signature Roman-style pizza and family-driven concept, has opened its first branch in the city at Mall of the Emirates, taking over the space previously occupied by Black Tap near the cinema. Already a hit in Al Maryah Island, Al Zeina, and Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Antonia has carved out a name for itself thanks to its casual charm, high-quality ingredients, and distinctive Pizza al Taglio — the traditional Roman way of serving pizza by the rectangular slice, often eaten by hand.     View this...