Things to do in Dubai this weekend
A locals-first shortlist of what's worth your time in Dubai this weekend — from outdoor escapes to standout food and live music.
Top spots in Dubai
Burj Khalifa & Dubai Fountain
CultureDowntown
World's tallest tower with At the Top deck and choreographed lake show.
Al Fahidi Historical District
CultureBur Dubai
Wind-tower lanes, courtyard cafés and the Dubai Museum.
Jumeirah Beach & La Mer
OutdoorsJumeirah
White-sand promenade with kite surfers and Burj Al Arab views.
Desert Safari (Dune Bashing)
OutdoorsDubai Desert Conservation Reserve
4x4 over red dunes, falconry, camels and Bedouin dinner under the stars.
Gold & Spice Souks
CultureDeira
Abra across the creek to alleys of saffron, frankincense and 22-karat trays.
Dubai Marina Walk
NightlifeDubai Marina
Yacht-lined promenade with rooftop bars, shisha terraces and beach clubs.
Where to eat
Al Ustad Special Kebab
$Iranian · Bur Dubai
Polaroid-walled 1978 institution — order the special chelo kebab.
Ravi Restaurant
$Pakistani · Satwa
24-hour curry house — late-night nihari and butter chicken legend.
Pierchic
$$$$Seafood · Madinat Jumeirah
Over-water pavilion with Burj Al Arab framed in the window.
3Fils
$$$Asian-fusion · Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
No-reservations Michelin-Bib waterfront — book the bar, order everything.
Live & on stage
Dubai Shopping Festival
City-wide · Dec 6 – Jan 14 · Festival / Family
Sole DXB
Dubai Design District · Dec 5–7 · Hip-Hop / Streetwear
Dubai Jazz Festival
Media City Amphitheatre · Feb 20–22 · Jazz / Pop
Untold Dubai
Expo City · Feb 13–15 · Electronic / Festival
Frequently asked
- Locals' favourites right now: Burj Khalifa & Dubai Fountain, Al Fahidi Historical District, Jumeirah Beach & La Mer. The full list is curated weekly and balances outdoor, food, culture and live music picks.