30 wonderful things to do in the UAE this April
Here’s how to make the most of the month ahead.
From Ramadan dining to concerts and family fun – we have something exciting for you every day this month.
Saturday 1 April
Visit the Mandarin Oriental Majlis
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, has debuted its first Majlis by Mandarin Oriental – an exclusive space that pays tribute to the UAE’s rich heritage. For iftar and suhoor, guests can delight in a dining experience, combining the very best of Middle Eastern cuisine with signature creations from Netsu by Ross Shonhan and Tasca by José Avillez. The beachfront Majlis also features an exhibit curated by Emirati artist Yasmin Al Mulla, showcasing a creative and modern interpretation of seven mosques, each representing a specific Emirate. Available daily, from sunset to 2am. AED 335 (iftar) and AED 250 (minimum spend for suhoor).
GO: Email modub-restaurants@mohg.com or call 04 777 2223 for reservations and more information.
Sunday 2 April
Head to the Akhu Manoushe Ramadan pop-up
25hours Hotel Dubai One Central is playing host to Akhu Manoushe’s pop-up throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan. Expect ten of their cult-favourite manoushe creations alongside the venue’s shisha menu. Whether you choose classic flavours like cheese, zataar, lahm bel ajeen, and Kraft with honey or more unique options like cheese and sujuk, falafel, and kishek, each freshly baked manoushe is packed with flavours that will transport you back to simpler times. The pop-up will also feature exclusive Akhu Manoushe merchandise. Available daily from 6pm to 3am,
GO: Visit www.25hours-hotels.com for reservations and more information.
Monday 3 April
Have iftar at the Opera
Dubai Opera have launched a memorable iftar in honour of the Holy Month. Here, patrons can enjoy Emirati cuisine, an extensive spread of international and Arabic dishes, carving stations, desserts and traditional Ramadan juices. Visitors will also be treated to renditions of classical and Arabic melodies every night. Available daily, from sunset to 9:30pm. AED 285 for adults and AED 145 for children aged between five and twelve years.
GO: Visit www.dubaiopera.com for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 4 April
Experience an unexpected iftar
Head to Ergo in The Dubai EDITION for an unexpected iftar offering. The package starts with coffee and dates to break your fast, followed by a mocktail and two small plates, such as the mushroom and Parmesan tart or beef tartare. Ergo’s neo-futuristic design and urban vibe make it a relaxing spot for iftar. Available daily from sunset to 9pm. AED 145 per person.
GO: Visit https://ergodubai.com for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 5 April
Enjoy a Persian iftar at Enigma
Enigma offers a family-style iftar featuring Persian culinary traditions. Guests can savour a tempting set menu that includes Sabzi Khordan and a mesmerising variety of fresh herbs with walnuts and dates, along with homemade Persian cheese and roasted Persian bread. With everything set for an indulgent iftar celebration with loved ones, Enigma promises to create lasting memories. Available daily from sunset to 8:30pm. AED 250 per person.
GO: Visit www.palazzoversace.ae for reservations and more information.
Thursday 6 April
Visit the Culinary Master Series
Head to Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, for a special edition of the hotel’s Culinary Master Series await. Chef Nicolas Isnard will take diners on a culinary voyage through France with a five-course set menu served in the elegant French restaurant Bord Eau. Available 6 to 9 April, from 7pm to 11pm. AED 450 (five-course menu with soft beverages).
GO: Email restaurantreservations.slad@shangri-la.com or call 02 509 8555 for reservations and more information.
Friday 7 April
Reflect on the UAE”s cultural heritage
Louvre Abu Dhabi will showcase mesmerising projections that can be seen from the Promenade this Ramadan. Witness images of Emirati heritage brought to life on the seafront surfaces, featuring cultural activities and traditions such as maritime moments, desert travellers, urban and rural landscapes, architecture, and portraits of the people and lifestyle of the city. Available until 15 May at 6:30pm daily.
GO: Visit www.louvreabudhabi.ae for reservations and more information.
Saturday 8 April
Munch on a Mediterranean iftar
Experience a blend of local and Mediterranean flavours with the iftar menu at Basko. Indulge in a five-course feast featuring soups, Basko’s famous huevos rotos and saffron milk cake, created especially for Ramadan by chef Moustapha. Available daily, from sunset. AED 290 per person.
GO: Visit https://baskorestaurant.com or call 04 582 4242 for reservations and more information.
Sunday 9 April
Indulge in iftar at a Michelin-starred restaurant
11 Woodfire will offer (you guessed it) a wood-fired iftar menu this Ramadan. The menu showcases the restaurant’s specialities from the open kitchen including vegetables, seafood and meats, all cooked to perfection over oak. Dishes include a Levantine-inspired salad, beef cheek sambousek and slow-cooked short ribs. For dessert, guests can indulge in a layered date cake. Available daily from sunset. AED 300 for two people.
GO: Visit www.11woodfire.com for reservations and more information.
Monday 10 April
Spend Ramadan nights at Pixoul
Pixoul Gaming in Al Qana will host a fun-filled suhoor experience with activities to unite families and friends. The immersive gaming experience allows guests to meet with the local gaming community, play vintage arcade games, save Planet Pixoul with a VR experience, and show off skills at the Esports Hub, all whilst enjoying refreshments from the E-Sports Bar. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout Ramadan, from 10pm to 3am.
GO: Visit https://alqana.ae for more information.
Tuesday 11 April
Pamper yourself at Palazzo Versace Dubai
During the Holy Month, The SPA at Palazzo Versace Dubai provides pampering at a discounted price. Guests can luxuriate with the Amber Essence Massage, which utilises ancient Moroccan techniques to promote relaxation of the mind and body, with the comforting warmth of the Paillettes d’Ambre candle. Available daily, from 11am to 10pm. AED 500.
GO: Email spa@palazzoversace.ae or call 04 556 8750 for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 12 April
Check out the Middle East’s first Charlotte Tilbury Majlis
Fashion and food don’t sound like they would typically go together, but that’s not the case with the region’s first-ever Charlotte Tilbury Majlis. Located in Society Abu Dhabi at Mamsha Saadiyat, the Charlotte Tilbury Majlis in Society showcases the best of the world-famous beauty brand. If you’ve been looking for some make-up inspiration, you’ll be excited to hear about the events. Visitors can join masterclasses hosted by local and international make-up artists, gaming opportunities and, best of all, products.
GO: Visit www.societyuae.com for more information.
Thursday 13 April
Break your fast at Bushra
Indulge in traditional Arabic delicacies while admiring the views of Dubai Marina at Bushra by Buddha-Bar this Ramadan. Feast on cold mezze, hummus bi tahini, fattoush and Turkish pide, followed by mains such as ouzi and mixed grills. End your meal with traditional Arabic and Turkish delights. Available daily, from sunset to 8:30pm. AED 275 per person.
GO: Email resbook.grosvenorhouse@luxurycollection.com or call 04 317 6000 for reservations and more information.
Friday 14 April
Gather with family and friends at Penelope’s
Head to Penelope’s Brasserie & Jazz Bar Américain at Yas Marina for a special iftar celebration that promotes togetherness and fantastic food. As the sun sets, gather with family and friends for a three-course set menu that goes beyond the usual buffet and takeout offerings. Penelope’s iftar menu combines tradition and innovation in dishes such as Australian lamb chops with pickled vegetables and French lentils or the watermelon salad with feta cheese, octopus and hummus. Available daily from sunset to 8pm. AED 200 per person.
GO: Visit www.penelopes.ae or call 052 221 0097 for reservations and more information.
Saturday 15 April
Laugh with Jack Whitehall
We have some news that will put a smile on your face. British comedian Jack Whitehall has announced that he is performing at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. Jack hails from London, England, and has worked as an actor and presenter. He first came to fame as a presenter on Big Brother’s Big Mouth and 8 Out of 10 Cats and an actor in Bad Education and Fresh Meat. Saturday 15 April. Tickets from AED 245.
GO: Visit www.coca-cola-arena.com for more information.
Sunday 16 April
Make this your Maine meal
The MAINE Land Brasserie is ideal for breaking your fast during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Starting with the appetisers, guests can choose from mushroom truffle flatbread, baked feta, tuna tartare, wagyu toastie, and short rib croquettes. Followed by main courses of roasted eggplant, truffle rigatoni, sea bass fillet, spring chicken, double-cut lamb chops, steak frites or slow-cooked short ribs. Ending iftar on a sweet note, indulge in French apple tarte tatin, dates pudding or the waiter’s recommended sorbet selection. Available daily from sunset. AED 315 per person.
GO: Call 04 577 6680 for reservations and more information.
Monday 17 April
Visit the fashionable Fendi Majlis
The world-famous fashion brand, Fendi, have collaborated with the much-loved café, tashas for a fashion-forward Majlis in Abu Dhabi. The fashion industry swoons over a good partnership, from adidas X Ravi’s to the unveiling of Tiffany & Co.’s latest brand ambassador. Yet this is the first time Fendi and tashas have worked together, and visitors can indulge in a special menu and events at the FACT Award-winning venue. Fashion and fun await.
GO: Visit www.tashasgroup.com for more information.
Tuesday 18 April
Dine on Middle Eastern cuisine at Alaya
Alaya celebrates the Holy Month with an iftar menu honouring the region’s rich culinary landscape. Served from sunset, Alaya invites diners to break their fast with a selection of mezze, including a rich and smoky Baba Ghanoush, delicate Grape Leaf Dolma, freshly fried Falafel, Cheese Sambousek, and Tabbouleh Salad. For the main course, guests can relish in tender Chicken Fakhara, traditional Lamb Ouzi, succulent Tiger Prawns, and Shish Kofte, all served with Maqluba, Vermicelli Rice and Potato Harra. The iftar ends with a choice of beloved Levantine desserts. Available daily, from sunset.
GO: Call 04 570 6289 for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 19 April
Enjoy iftar at the Waldorf
Bull & Bear invites guests to experience its classic steakhouse menu, instilled with an Arabic twist for iftar. Tuck into Josper grilled flatbread with dips, red lentil soup and Bull & Bear’s take on a mixed grill. In addition to the classic dishes, guests can also choose from lamb melanzane, Mediterranean oriental rice and sweet delicacies such as cheese kunafa, Arabian dates sticky toffee pudding and sliced carrot baklava. Available daily, from sunset to 8:30pm. AED 245 per person.
GO: Visit www.bullandbeardifc.com or call 04 515 9888 for reservations and more information.
Thursday 20 April
Dine on sweet and savoury samosas
Supper club sensation Moreish by K celebrates Ramadan with flavour-filled samosa hampers. Adding to their collection of organic and locally-sourced samosas – which feature pulled beef, goat’s cheese and honey, chicken tikka, pistachio pesto, and cream cheese – Founder Kunwal Safdar has launched new sweet samosas. These include apple pie and s’mores. Customers can order standard hampers of 50 samosas for AED 295 or choose the limited-time Ramadan Kareem hamper featuring 400 samosas for AED 1,700, complete with special gift packaging.
GO: Follow @moreishbyk on Instagram for more information.
Friday 21 April
Try a Latin American iftar
Sucre in DIFC offers a Latin American iftar experience this Ramadan. The menu features an array of dishes, including tuna and watermelon ceviche, spicy octopus tostada, and grilled chicory salad with pear, pecorino and praline. Main courses feature seafood fideua, baby chicken a la barsa or striploin with chimichurri butter. To cap off the meal, guests are treated to a dulce de leche and dates baklava. Available daily from sunset to 8pm. AED 250 per person.
GO: Visit www.sucredubai.com or call 04 340 0829 for reservations and more information.
Saturday 22 April
Feast on Moroccan favourites
Dine on a spread of authentic Moroccan dishes at Bab Al Mansour. Highlights include cold mezze, tajines and sweet Moroccan pastries for dessert. This family-friendly restaurant is spacious with lavish North African interiors and sprawling indoor and outdoor dining on the Boulevard. With traditional recipes and organic ingredients sourced from Morocco, Bab Al Mansour has become a firm favourite with residents and tourists in Dubai.
GO: Follow @babalmansour on Instagram for more information.
Sunday 23 April
Relax at a fashion-inspired beach club
Twiggy by La Cantine is one of Dubai’s classiest beach clubs. Now, it’s about to turn it up a notch, thanks to the famous fashion brand Ralph Lauren. The Ralph Lauren beach club will host special events – a beach party, anyone? Plus, it will boast customised sunbeds, cushions, parasols and private cabanas, which embody the brand’s American sensibility. We’re talking about Ralph Lauren’s signature palette of white and shades of blue. Plus, the menu will serve gelatos and refreshments, which include American classics.
GO: Visit https://twiggy.ae/ralph-lauren-takeover for more information.
Monday 24 April
Get your culture fix
Al Shindagha Museum is on a mission to showcase the history and culture of the UAE. Spanning more than 310,00 square metres, it is the largest heritage museum in the country. Since its redevelopment, the site has been transformed into an open-air museum celebrating the city’s achievements. Al Shindagha Museum boasts 80 historic houses and 22 pavilions. Each pavilion has its own theme, from traditional crafts to people and faith. Look out for the houses that recreate life in the 1800s, and offer a glimpse into a traditional Emirati home.
GO: Visit https://alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae for more information.
Tuesday 25 April
Roll up to a water circus
Cirque Du Liban’s Fontana made a splash in Dubai and now hopes to do the same in Abu Dhabi. The troupe are coming to the capital for the first time and are setting up a circus at Marina Mall. Cirque du Liban’s Fontana is the first travelling water circus in the Middle East. So, the show will take place in the tailor-made Aquatic Theatre. The thrilling theatrics range from a dancing musical fountain to motorcycle stunts. During the show, you’ll be wowed by a range of circus performers including dancers, trapeze artists, singers and good old-fashioned clowns. Available daily until 2 July.
GO: Visit www.cirqueduliban.com for more information.
Wednesday 26 April
Channel your inner Lewis Hamilton
Channel your inner Lewis Hamilton at Dubai Motor City’s Indoor Kartdome. Satisfy your need for speed at this thrilling attraction, which boasts a 620m track with 17 turns and can host up to 10 drivers on the track at any time.
GO: Visit https://dubaiautodrome.ae for more information.
Thursday 27 April
Hit the slopes
There is fun for all in-store at the region’s first indoor snow slope, Ski Dubai. Visitors can hone their ski skills at five different runs of varying difficulty levels and enjoy plenty of other fun-filled activities, including snowboarding and tobogganing. In addition, visitors can try zip-lining or even experience a penguin encounter.
GO: Visit www.skidxb.com for more information.
Friday 28 April
Dine on tapas at this new Abu Dhabi restaurant
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is set to transport diners straight to the colourful streets of Seville with the opening of José by Pizarro. The new tapas bar is the brainchild of chef, restaurateur and author José Pizarro, fondly known as the “godfather of Spanish cuisine.” The restaurant serves spicy chicken croquetas, prawn fritters, red tuna tartare, traditional lamb meatballs and free-range chicken paella, all designed to be shared. And if you have room for more, chocolate pots with salt and olive oil, homemade Spanish almond tart with figs and custard and a spectacular cheese selection served with fruits and chutneys are available for dessert. Diners can also expect an array of paired wines and Spanish beer on tap.
GO: Visit https://josepizarro.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 29 April
Laugh with comedian Joanne McNally
After her three sold-out shows at Dubai’s QE2 Theatre last year, Joanne McNally is set to headline an additional show at The Agenda in Dubai Media City. McNally has been hailed as a “truly gifted standup,” taking the comedy scenes of Ireland and the UK by storm. She co-hosts the widely popular podcast My Therapist Ghosted Me, which regularly ranks high on podcast charts, with over one million weekly downloads. Saturday 29 April. Tickets from AED 150.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 30 April
Lunch at the new Nobu
Nobu Dubai has recently relocated to the crown of Atlantis, The Palm and now offers an express lunch of Nobu classics. Begin with one of six Nobu starters, including the crispy squid coriander shiso aioli, salmon new style, spinach dry miso, crispy shiitake salad, white fish dry miso or avocado crispy rice. For the main event, there are seven dishes to choose from including baby umami chicken, grilled salmon anticucho, eggplant miso, cauliflower jalapeno, or duck breast orange miso. To end the lunch on a sweet note, diners can enjoy the Nobu cheesecake, seasonal exotic fruit or mochi ice cream for an additional AED 35. Available on Fridays and Sundays, from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. AED 155 per person.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com or call 04 426 0760 for reservations and more information.
