Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
The first weekend in October is finally upon us, and the UAE is filled with exciting things to do. So, whether you’re after staycations, spas or swimming in Dubai and Abu Dhabi– here’s what you need to know.
The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 3 to 5 October 2025
Friday 3 October
Visit the NBA District
Head to the NBA District at Manarat Al Saadiyat to meet basketball legends, including Derrick Rose, John Starks, Mark Jackson, Michael Carter-Williams, Oscar Robertson and Rudy Gay. Shoot on a full-size NBA court, catch highlight reels, pose with the Larry O’Brien Trophy and browse limited-edition merchandise. The Friday Night Concert starts at 8 pm with Siilawy, Stick No Bills, Tul8te, and DJs Jack and D Nice.
GO: Visit www.ticketmaster.ae for tickets and more information.
Enjoy afternoon tea at Atlantis The Royal
The Royal Tearoom by chef Christophe Devoille at Atlantis The Royal serves a bespoke afternoon tea on a refined stand of scones, pastries and finger sandwiches, guided by in-season ingredients. Expect Black Truffle and Organic Egg sandwiches, Lobster Rolls with Oscietra caviar and elegant pastries such as Raspberry Tart with coconut and local Sidr honey. Available daily from 2pm to 5pm. AED 560 for two.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for reservations and more information.
Try a special 12-course omakase at HANU
To mark Korean National Day, HANU at St. Regis Gardens hosts a one-night collaboration between Chef Kyung Soo Moon and haenyeo Sohee and Jung Min, The Last of the Sea Women. The duo flies to Dubai for the first time to supply seafood for a 12-course omakase. Highlights include Abalone, Caviar, Oyster, Seabass, Sea Urchin, Tuna, Wagyu, which will be served at the Chef’s Table. There will be two seatings at 6pm and 9pm, limited to 10 guests each. AED 1,095 per person (inclusive of champagne and wine).
GO: Call 04 278 4844 for more information.
Saturday 4 October
Catch the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025
Do you know your backboard from your brick? Well, get ready to dribble your way over to the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025. We are buzzing with excitement as the teams have been unveiled. Returning for the fourth time to the capital, the event will take place on 2 and 4 October 2025, and will feature the New York Knicks competing against the Philadelphia 76ers.
GO: Visit nba.com/abudhabi for tickets and more information.
Have a laugh with Hassan Phills
One of Canada’s fastest-rising comedians, Hassan Phills, brings sharp storytelling and interactive crowd work to the Dubai Comedy Festival with a one-night show at Coca-Cola Arena. Fresh from Crave’s The Office Movers, he has become a dynamic force in Canadian entertainment, delivering high-energy sets packed with spontaneity and audience connection. Available on Saturday, 4 October at Dubai Opera.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Sleep in the sky at AURA Skypool
AURA Skypool showcases one of the most spectacular views in Dubai, UAE. Located on The Palm, it is home to the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool. Now, you can experience it in a new light (and darkness), as it is offering The AURA Sleepover. Running from 4 to 5 October, guests will be able to fall asleep in the sky and wake up to the world-famous view. The experience includes a night swim, à la carte dinner, a front-row seat to the sunrise and a breakfast-in-bed experience.
GO: Visit auraskypool.com for reservations and more information.
Sunday 5 October
Visit The GOAT x Gargash pop-up
GOAT teams up with Gargash Enterprises for a 12-day takeover at the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai Design District. Expect a 360-degree pop-up with giant screens, a life-size burger box photo moment and the GOAT Fuelling Station. The menu features a limited-edition G Burger with wagyu, cheddar, jalapeño bacon jam and house sauce in a potato bun, plus G Tots, the GOAT Burger, Nashville Chicken Burger and fries. Available 1 to 12 October from 12pm.
GO: Follow @g.o.a.t.ae for more information.
Laugh out loud with Omid Djalili
Prepare for a night of sharp satire and global humour as British-Iranian comedian Omid Djalili returns to Dubai Opera with his critically acclaimed show NAMASTE. Known for his whip-smart takes on culture, politics, and identity, Omid has long been a staple on the international comedy circuit. Voted among the UK’s top stand-ups and recognised for his standout roles in Hollywood blockbusters, he’s also the host of ITV’s Winning Combination. Whether playing a stereotypical character on screen or skewering them on stage, Omid’s comedy walks the line between bold and brilliant.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Tuck into a Golden Week feast
Celebrate Golden Week at the FACT award-winning Mott 32 with a limited-time menu of heritage Cantonese dishes led by Head Chef Frankie Yang Tao. Expect refined dim sum such as Jade Wild Mushroom Dumplings with Black Truffle, Golden Flakes Crab Dumpling, Black Cod Gold Dumpling, Hot and Sour Chicken Soup Dumplings, and Signature Crispy Prawn Toast. Mains feature Slow-braised Wagyu-style Beef with Radish and Sea Cucumber and Prawns in Abalone Sauce, alongside Steamed Chicken with Glutinous Rice.
GO: Call 04 278 4832 for reservations and more information.
