31 marvellous things to do in Dubai this May
Here’s how to make the most of the month ahead.
It’s the start of a new month, which means it’s time to fill up your cultural calendar. From destination dining to concerts and family fun – we have something exciting for you every day this month.
Wednesday 1 May
Visit the Tasca and Fusion Ceviche collab dinner
Chef Penelope Diaz from the homegrown eatery Fusion Ceviche will cook a Portugal-meets-Peru fiesta alongside Tasca’s Chef José Barroso. The evening will include lively music, an exclusive selection of Pisco Sours and a menu featuring guacamole, Tasca’s signature cones with a Fusion Ceviche twist, a Ceviche Classico, Fusion Ceviche’s renowned Empanadas de la Abuela and Tasca’s Algarve Coastal Prawn ‘Rissol’. Available on 30 April and 1 May, from 7:30pm AED 450 per person.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
Thursday 2 May
Witness Cirque du Soleil’s skating spectacle
Roll up, roll up. Cirque du Soleil is bringing its magical show Crystal to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The show sees the skaters combine multiple disciplines, including acrobats and skating. The set pieces include synchronised skating, freestyle figures, and, of course, traditional circus, from aerial straps to a swinging trapeze. Tickets start at AED 175 and go up to AED 1,500.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Friday 3 May
Dine inside a hot air balloon
Dubai is home to some of the world’s most dramatic dining experiences. Now, it is set to raise the bar thanks to The View at The Palm. Here, visitors can hop into a hot air balloon and enjoy bites and beverages courtesy of the restaurant Coucou Dubai. This hot air balloon dining experience is a superb way to soak up the sunset, and the resident DJ will add a soundtrack to the evening. Available daily until 5 May, from 6pm to 10pm.
GO: Visit www.sevenrooms.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 4 May
See Jason Derulo live in Dubai
The line-up of R&B megastars performing at Coca-Cola-Arena continues to expand, this time with news that Jason Derulo will return to Dubai. Set to perform on Saturday, 4 May, the award-winning singer is bringing his Nu King World Tour to the UAE. Since breaking through with his five-times-platinum single Whatcha Say, Derulo has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, including chart-topping hits like Talk Dirty, Wiggle and Swalla. Derulo’s upcoming concert in Dubai is not his first stint in the UAE. In fact, he’s frequented the city many times — the last time in September 2023 when he performed at Blu Dubai for his birthday.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 5 May
Visit Micro Mitek
Micro Mutek is gearing up for its third instalment, set to take place at Alserkal Avenue from 4 to 5 May. This festival blends art and technology, providing an immersive experience featuring over 30 regional and international artists. The Play series unfolds at The Fridge Warehouse, offering an intimate evening filled with audio-visual performances and sensory experiences. Nocturne presents a series of late-night electronic music, and Digi Lab is the festival’s Professional and Educational daytime program.
GO: Visit https://dubai.mutek.org for more information.
Monday 6 May
Visit the Kate Spade Café
The New York brand Kate Spade has opened a cool café in Bloomingdale’s in Dubai Mall for fashion, frappés, and food. The Kate Spade Café has gorgeous green décor across the walls, chairs, and tables. The colours are broken up with black and white dots, stripes, and colourful cushions. The menu includes a Cappuccino, Cortado and Flat White. Plus, each dessert is designed with the brand’s logo and comes in colours that reflect the interior design. Look out for the cupcakes with green icing, and coffee served in monochrome cups.
GO: Visit www.katespade.eu for more information.
Tuesday 7 May
Sip on Pitfire Pizza’s new Happy Hour
Pitfire Pizza recently opened its first licensed location at Dubai Hills Business Park and has now introduced an early evening happy hour. Running Monday through Thursday from 4pm to 7pm, the offering includes a handpicked selection of draft hops and signature cocktails for just AED 39. Enhance the experience with the perfect pairing of Pitfire Pizza’s flavour-packed pies, their newly introduced appetisers like the Whipped Feta and Caramelized Onion Dip, or Michele’s Apple Pie.
GO: Visit https://pitfirepizzabakers.com for more information.
Wednesday 8 May
Take a bite out of an Izu Burger
Chef Izu, the acclaimed talent behind popular Dubai restaurants Carina and Gaia, has introduced Izu Burger. Located in Boxpark, Izu Burger is a hip hangout. The venue features an industrial aesthetic with exposed concrete, blue ceramic tiles, neon lighting and a merch stand featuring Izu branded t-shirts. The menu includes the Potato Bun Burger, made with a choice of Australian Wagyu Beef or 150-day grain-fed Canadian Beef. It is topped with melted Emmental Swiss Cheese, signature sauce and a soft Potato Bun to soak up the juices. However, don’t sleep on the Izu Fries, which offer thick wedges of potato with a crisp skin and fluffy consistency drizzled with a spicy sauce and topped with shavings of fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano.
GO: Follow @izuburger on Instagram for more information.
Thursday 9 May
Get into trouble
So Much Trouble is bringing some chic to the city, and mixing things up with its new bar meets shop. The experiential fashion house-meets-cocktail bar combines dresses and drinks and offers a stylish spot to unwind. The brands range from high-end ones like Chanel, Hermes and Givenchy to cult ones like Isabel Moore, Lama Jouni, Oceanus and Romani. So, if you love to shop over a drink or three, check out the stylish spot.
GO: Follow @somuchtroubledubai on Instagram for more information.
Friday 10 May
Try a new beach brunch
Step into the opulent ambience of a Greek island paradise at the Big Fat Greek Brunch at Gallery 7/40. Indulge in a thoughtfully curated selection of Greek delicacies, accompanied by unlimited drinks, while enjoying breathtaking beachfront views of the Palm. Immerse yourself in Greek-inspired entertainment, including the exhilarating tradition of plate smashing. Fridays, from 7pm to 10:30pm. AED 345 (soft beverages), AED 425 (house beverages), and AED 525 premium beverages).
GO: Visit https://secret-parties.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 11 May
Party with Blackstreet and Shaggy
It’s time to party like it’s 1999 because the nineties acts, Blackstreet and Shaggy, are coming to Dubai. The reggae singer and rapper Shaggy hails from Kingston, Jamaica. His hit songs include Angel, Boombastic, It Wasn’t Me and That Girl. He has collaborated with Eve, Rayvon and RikRok. The R&B group Blackstreet were founded by Chauncey “Black” Hannibal and Teddy Riley. The line-up includes Chauncey, Levi Little, Mark Middleton and Eric Williams. Famous for their mix of soul and hip-hop, their most famous song is No Diggity. The 1996 smash hit featured Dr Dre and Queen Pen. The song was number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance. Tickets to see Blackstreet and Shaggy in Dubai start from AED 199.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Sunday 12 May
Book a stay at FIVE LUXE
Fans of FIVE will already be familiar with the brand’s Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Village properties. FIVE LUXE takes over the beachfront at JBR, bringing 222 luxury rooms and suites and 222 residences to the Dubai shoreline. Expect a ReFIVE Spa, a social pool and a swathe of private beach, in addition to several culinary and nightlife venues, including Paradiso Dubai, Playa Pacha and Ronin. The property’s Pool Party Rooms and Signature Suites with private swimming pools, are not to be missed.
GO: Visit https://luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com for reservations and more information.
Monday 13 May
Dine at Montblanc Majlis by Ninive
25hours Hotel Dubai One Central is famous for its uber-trendy vibes. Now, it has opened Montblanc Majlis by Ninive, offering an escape from the city and an à la carte menu with a minimum spend of AED 200 per person. The starters include Shorbat Addas Soup, Quinoa Spiced Mango, and Sweet Pepper Eggplant. The mains include Tashreeb, a slow-cooked lamb shoulder with chickpeas, and Mini Grilled Beef and Chicken Skewers, which come with roasted pumpkin and black olives. The desserts include Umm Ali with vanilla ice cream, Mini Turkish Baklava with pistachio ice cream, and a Watermelon Platter. Montblanc Majlis by Ninive is available daily from 6.30pm to 2am, and children are allowed until 9pm.
GO: Visit https://www.25hours-hotels.com/en/hotels/dubai/one-central for more information.
Tuesday 14 May
Tackle the tasting menu at Jun’s
Chef Kelvin Cheung of the FACT award-winning Jun’s has revealed a new tasting menu featuring his handpicked favourites. Known for his innovative third-culture cooking styles, Chef Kelvin’s menu features Butter-poached Lobster, Pani Puri, Potstickers, Wagyu Beef, and the Chef’s Dessert. Available daily from 12pm. AED 425 per person (eleven-course vegetarian tasting menu) and AED 485 per person (eleven-course non-vegetarian tasting menu).
GO: Call 04 457 6035 for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 15 May
Experience Sharjah’s new curtained café
Sharjah, it’s time to draw back the curtain on a cool new café. Goya is hidden behind a plush purple curtain and boasts a futuristic feel. The walls include projections, and the bar has neon lights. Plus, the mocktails are served in a swanky, Insta-worthy style. Goy’s food menu includes decadent desserts. Diners can expect a Créme Brûlée, Pavlova, Tiramisu, Yoghurt Puddling, and a range of baked goods.
GO: Visit @goya_ae for more information.
Thursday 16 May
Stay at The Lana, Dorchester Collection
The Dorchester Collection’s first hotel in the Middle East has brought together blockbuster chefs and Insta-worthy views in a central city location. The hotel boasts a sleek, stunning structure and has 225 rooms and suites. Chefs Angelo Musa, Jean Imbert, and Martín Berasategui have brought their MICHELIN magic to Dubai and head up four of the eight on-site dining concepts, including the modern Mediterranean restaurant Riviera, the Basque restaurant Jara, and the rooftop bar High Society. The hotel is also home to the first Dior Spa in Dubai.
GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for more information.
Friday 17 May
See legendary rock band Scorpions
Iconic rock bands have come and gone, but a whopping 58 years since its inception, Scorpions is still going strong. In fact, the legendary band is going on its Love at First Sting world tour in 2024, and a pit stop in Abu Dhabi is on the roster — the concert is confirmed for 17 May at Etihad Arena. Their success has been marked by several chart-topping hits, achieving over 120 million records sold and surpassing one billion views on YouTube for the single Wind of Change. Scorpions will set the stage ablaze to celebrate this iconic album with smash hits Big City Nights, Still Loving You, and more.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Saturday 18 May
Laugh out loud with Aziz Ansari
American comedian Aziz Ansari will perform for the first time in the capital as part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. The acclaimed actor, director, writer, and comedian, best known for portraying Tom Haverford on the television show “Parks and Recreation,” is set to showcase his comedy skills at Etihad Arena on Saturday, 18 May. Beginning his career in New York City, Aziz has steadily evolved, earning two Emmys for Outstanding Comedy Writing and receiving both Emmy and DGA Award nominations for his Netflix series “Master of None”. He has appeared in several films such as “Get Him to the Greek,” “I Love You, Man,” and “30 Minutes or Less.” When he faced allegations of misconduct during the #MeToo movement, he used them as inspiration for this show, Aziz Ansari: Right Now. The show takes place at Etihad Arena.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 19 May
Try the new Sunday Roast at The Maine
The Maine is a shucking spectacular restaurant and a firm favourite among the FACT team. Loved by locals, we cannot fault the menu’s selection of freshly shucked oysters, raw plates and steaks, but the new Sunday Roast excites us. Expect slow-cooked roast beef served with classic trimmings like baby carrots, broccolini, roasted potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and lashings of gravy. Sundays from 12pm to 8pm. AED 220 (two courses) and AED 250 (three courses)
GO: Visit https://themaine.ae for reservations and more information.
Monday 20 May
Grab a cuppa at Ralph’s Coffee
If fashion is your cup of tea, it’s time to put on your designer shoes and strut on over to the Mall of the Emirates. Located on the first floor, Ralph Lauren has opened Ralph’s Coffee in Dubai. So, visitors can shop and then sip at the new luxury café. The menu spans hot and cold drinks and includes Americano, Cortado, Sea Salt Caramel Latte, Ralph’s Drip Coffee, Ralph’s Espresso and Ralph’s Hot Chocolate. Dishes are served in custom-made China and include the brand’s name italicised across the cups. The dishes range from a Caesar Salad and Carrot Cake to an Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake and Tuna Melt.
GO: Visit @ralphscoffee for more information.
Tuesday 21 May
Dine behind a secret fridge door
FACT loves a secret restaurant. So, we were excited to uncover a new Pan Asian restaurant inside a grocery store. Fifth Flavor is located in Al Wasl Square, and it has one of the most unusual entrances we’ve ever seen. Outside, the venue looks like a simple shop selling Asian food and drinks. However, on closer inspection, all is not what it seems. The drinks cooler opens up to a secret entrance. The sign says “pull†and leads down a dark corridor, which opens up to the main restaurant. Fifth Flavor’s dishes are superb for sharing and showcase Pan Asian cuisine. One of the signature drinks is iced tea, which is served in a bag with a straw.
GO: Follow @fifthflavor.ae on Instagram for more information.
Wednesday 22 May
Escape to Santorini (in the UAE)
Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat offers uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf, away from the towering skylines of the capital. Crafted to reflect the buildings of its namesake island, the low-lying white buildings of Anantara Santorini blend gently with the surrounding landscape. Guests will find relaxing moments on the resort’s private beach and an expansive outdoor pool overlooking the Gulf. Day passes start from AED 800 per person on weekdays (with AED 400 redeemable on food and beverages).
GO: Call 02 817 0000 for reservations and more information.
Thursday 23 May
Watch Dave Chappelle at Etihad Arena
Abu Dhabi, it’s time to have a laugh because the American comedian Dave Chappelle has joined the Abu Dhabi Comedy Week line-up. Dave hails from Washington DC, United States. He grew up in Maryland, and was inspired by the comedians Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor. He created and starred in the satirical show, Chappelle’s Show. Over his career, he has won six Emmy Awards and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humour. On Netflix, viewers can catch his comedy specials Dave Chappelle: Sticks & Stones, The Closer and The Dreamer.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Friday 24 May
Be serenaded by James Blunt
James Blunt’s upcoming concert at Coca-Cola Arena is part of his new album tour, Who We Used To Be. The show promises to be a journey through James Blunt’s musical evolution. Blending elements of folk, pop, and rock to create a sound that is uniquely his own, his songs capture moments of love, loss, and self-discovery with an authenticity that is both raw and compelling. James Blunt’s career has been defined by the hauntingly beautiful, chart-topping hit You’re Beautiful.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Saturday 25 May
Laugh out loud with Chris Tucker
Chris Tucker is known for his roles in the Rush Hour movie series and his impeccable comedic timing. From his early days on Def Comedy Jam to his stellar performances in blockbuster hits like Friday and The Fifth Element, Tucker’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of legendary. Taking the late show spot at Abu Dhabi Comedy Week on 25 May at the Etihad Arena, he’s going to leave the audience in splits with his boundless energy and sharp wit.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Sunday 26 May
See Jo Koy in the capital
We have some news that will put a smile on your face. Filipino-American comedian Jo Koy is bringing his world tour to Abu Dhabi. Jo Koy hails from Washington, United States. He started performing in coffee houses in Las Vegas and landed a regular night at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino. He has appeared on shows ranging from Chelsea Lately to The Adam Coralla Show. Plus, he has created Netflix specials, including Jo Koy: Comin in Hot and Jo Koy: Live from Seattle. We’re hoping he brings his signature satirical humour to the UAE capital. He is known for his jokes about families and the Filipino diaspora.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Monday 27 May
Visit the recently refurbished Dryp for hot yoga
In yoga, some like it hot. Dryp in Dubai Marina has recently been refurbished and is a stylish spot. Visitors can enjoy a range of classes: Bikram, Hot Bikram Express, Hot Yin, Hot Yoga Sculpt and Hot Yoga Vinyasa. Best of all, the studios have views of the Dubai Marina. If you can’t stand the heat, head to the cryotherapy room. Plus, there is a cool café with shakes and smoothies.
GO: Visit www.dryp.ae for more information.
Tuesday 28 May
Eat a deep-fried Mars Bar
What says British cuisine is better than fish and chips? If you’re a fan of the humble dish, then here’s a tasty treat. Saylor’s has opened a British fish and chip shop in Dubai Hills and specialises in the classic combination. The menu covers classics, mains, sides and desserts. The classics include Battered Sausage, Devonshire Fishcake, Fish Finger Butties, Fresh Scottish Haddock and Steak and Cheese Pie. Desserts hit the comfort food spot and range from a Bakewell Tart to Sticky Toffee Pudding and Ice Cream. Plus, there is the much-loved Deep Fried Mars Bar †“for the uninitiated, this originated in Scotland and sees a chocolate bar covered in batter.
GO: Visit www.saylorsdxb.com for more information.
Wednesday 29 May
Brave the highest swing in the UAE
The UAE is swinging into action and breaking a record. Fujairah Adventure Park has opened the highest swing in the country. Standing 40 metres above ground, the Giant Swing is a must-visit for thrill seekers and sees visitors strapped into the swing before soaring across the dramatic landscape. At Fujairah Adventure Park, visitors can also challenge themselves on zip-line courses, kayaking, and wall climbing. The site has more than 20 hectares of biking and hiking trails. Tickets for the Giant Swing start at AED 120 per person. Fujairah Adventure Park is open Monday through Friday from 4pm to 11pm and Saturday through Sunday from 6am to 10pm.
GO: Visit https://fujairahadventurepark.ae for more information.
Thursday 30 May
Dine inside a waterfall
There are many reasons to visit Sharjah, from its marvellous mosques to museums. Now, there is one more, thanks to the opening of the restaurant, Habib Beirut. The venue boasts indoor and outdoor seating. Inside, there is a cave-like structure with undulating ceilings and grey décor. The floor-to-ceiling windows are framed perfectly, and you can look out through the cascades and onto the spectacular seafront. The menu covers hot and cold mezze, salads, sandwiches, soups, raw meat, fatteh, grills and manakish. Plus, there is a range of shawarma dishes, from Beef to Chicken.
GO: Follow @habibbeirutuae on Instagram for more information.
Friday 31 May
Catch Oscar-winning film composer Hans Zimmer
Hands up if you love the soundtrack to Gladiator, The Lion King or Pirates of the Caribbean. Well, you have the film composer Hans Zimmer to thank for that. We’re excited as the multiple Oscar winner has announced that he’s returning to Dubai for one night only at the Coca-Cola Arena. The concert in Dubai will showcase the talents of the German composer and his band of skilled musicians, which includes Tina Guao on the cello and Pedro Eustache on the winds. Enhancing the ensemble’s performance will be captivating dancers, along with the iconic voices of Lisa Gerard from Gladiator, Lebo M. from The Lion King, and Loire from Dune.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
