31 thrilling things to do in Dubai this October
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.
Sunday 1 October
Sing along to Charlie Puth
Have we got your attention? Well, we have some exciting news. The American singer Charlie Puth is making his debut in the UAE. He will be performing at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. In 2015, he released his debut single Marvin Gaye, which was a duet with Meghan Trainor. In the same year, See You Again with Wiz Khalifa was at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 charts for 12 consecutive weeks. Over his career, he has been nominated for four Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year. Plus, three Billboard Music Awards and a Critic’s Choice Award,
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for more information.
Monday 2 October
Treat yourself
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, is expanding its renowned selection of treatments by introducing a new offering from the Australian skincare brand Subtle Energies. The Vegan Collagen Facial delivers profound hydration and serves as a natural filler, effectively rejuvenating skin elasticity and fullness using vitamin-infused active ingredients like Kakadu Plum, Ashwagandha, and Bacillus Ferment. Available daily, from 9am to 9pm. AED 830 (60 minute treatment).
GO: Call 04 777 2222 for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 3 October
See Trevor Noah live in Dubai
Get ready for a night filled with humour as the acclaimed comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, Trevor Noah takes to the stage at Coca-Cola Arena. Hailing from South Africa, Trevor Noah has delighted audiences worldwide with his keen observations and clever wit. His return to the Middle East with his ‘Off The Record’ tour underscores his enduring popularity in the region. Secure your tickets starting from AED 295 for this unforgettable evening.
GO: Visit www.coca-cola-arena.com for tickets and more information.
Wednesday 4 October
Watch Matilda The Musical
Adapted by Roald Dahl’s best-seller, Matilda The Musical is making its debut in the UAE. Getting ready to wow thousands of fans, The Royal Shakespeare Company will bring the likes of Miss Honey, Miss Trunchbull and, of course, Matilda to the stage. This family-friendly musical is making its way to the Dubai Opera for two weeks only, from 3 to 15 October. Tickets start from AED 325 and are on sale now via Platinumlist.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Thursday 5 October
See a cine-concert at NYU Abu Dhabi
A special focus on film as performance will translate to Koyaanisqatsi Live, a cine-concert taking place at NYU Abu Dhabi and featuring the groundbreaking film by Godfrey Reggio that’s set to the influential score by Philip Glass. The music is performed live by the Philip Glass Ensemble, in a hypnotic exploration of nature, urbanisation and a world out of balance.
GO: Visit www.nyuad-artscenter.org for more information.
Friday 6 October
Get into the groove with Boney M
We have some groovy news. Sheyla Bonnick’s seventies disco-inspired Boney M Experience is bringing a mix of funk and soul to Dubai. The concert is happening at Dubai’s Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach on Friday, 6 October. Formed in 1976, they topped the charts with the songs Daddy Cool, Rivers of Babylon. Over the years, Boney M’s line-up has changed. Sheyla Bonnick featured on the singles Baby Do Ya Wanna Bump and Sunny, and was later given a solo record deal. Tickets are available via Platinumlist from AED 175.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 7 October
Dine with acclaimed chef Michael Mina
MINA Brasserie at Four Seasons DIFC is bringing acclaimed Chef Michael Mina to the restaurant to cook for diners over four days. During his much-anticipated visit, Michael will embark on a gastronomic adventure, experimenting with novel flavours and gauging the diners’ reactions to fine-tune his forthcoming repertoire of recipes. The highlights on the evolving MINA Brasserie menu include the Chargrilled Lamb Cutlets, Escargots à la Bourguignonne, Lobster Thermidor and Red Snapper. Available from 4 to 7 October.
GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for reservations and more information.
Sunday 8 October
Have a lavish breakfast at Atlantis The Royal
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling food market with breakfast at Atlantis The Royal’s Gastronomy Restaurant. Here, guests can dine on handcrafted croissants and Danishes, premium cured meats, gourmet cheeses, or classic Benedict’s tipped with turkey, veal, or salmon. Head to The Orchard to indulge in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern delights, while at Seven Seas, diners can indulge in smoked salmon, freshly prepared eggs, and seasonal fruits from around the globe. To conclude the culinary journey on a sweet note, Gastronomy’s dessert offering features handcrafted chocolates, house-made ice cream and colourful confections. Available daily from 7am to 12pm. AED 235 per adult (including alcohol and soft beverages) and AED 117.50 (for children aged four to 12 years).
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for reservations and more information.
Monday 9 October
Try a fashionable afternoon tea
Experience elegance at Mosaico inside the opulent Palazzo Versace Dubai. The venue’s FACT Award-winning afternoon tea has been revamped, offering an array of sweet and savoury delicacies paired with Damman Freres teas. Delight in chicken salad with mango, Balik salmon with butternut squash and black caviar, Jivara pannacotta, coconut molleaux, mango cheesecake, and scones served with homemade jam and clotted cream. Available daily from 10:30am to 7pm. AED 360 for two people.
GO: Email reservations@palazzoversace.ae or call 04 556 8805 for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 10 October
Prepare for battle
Originating from London’s Oxford Street, Boom Battle Bar is now open DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – JBR. Challenge your friends to a game of Augmented Reality Darts or venture into the world of Crazy Golf, where every hole presents unexpected surprises. Feel the adrenaline rush as you try your hand at Axe Throwing or test your skills in Shuffleboard. For those seeking a musical adventure, Boom Box karaoke awaits, complete with DJs spinning the hottest tracks, promising a night of absolute exhilaration.
GO: Visit https://boombattlebar.com for more information.
Wednesday 11 October
Listen to live jazz
A new jazz venue in town is hitting all the right notes. Jass Lounge in DIFC hosts live music, including jazz, soul, funk and blues. The current musical line-up takes place from Wednesday to Saturday night and celebrates the best live jazz musicians in Dubai. No-nonsense cocktails are masterfully presented in the small yet intimate venue. Open daily from 6pm to 3am.
GO: Follow @jasslounge on Instagram for reservations and more information.
Thursday 12 October
Dance with Denzel Curry
Dubai, get ready to turn up the heat as the sensational American rapper and singer, Denzel Curry makes his way to the city on Thursday, 12 October. Denzel’s debut studio album, Nostalgic 64, dropped in 2013. And guess what? He was still in high school at the time. Currently, his discography boasts three extended plays and four studio albums. His latest track Walkin, from the album Melt My Eyez See Your Future, is an absolute banger, showing Denzel’s dynamic rap prowess. In fact, the extended edition of Melt My Eyez See Your Future — the song — hit the 17th spot on the Billboard 200 chart as well.
GO: Visit https://blabladubai.ae for more information.
Friday 13 October
See KISS perform live
KISS is bringing their End of the Road World Tour to Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, marking the band’s only concert in the Middle East. The band’s line-up includes two original members, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, along with drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer, ensuring the stage is set for an electrifying experience. Expect the band’s biggest hits, including the anthems I Was Made for Lovin’ You, Rock and Roll All Nite, Detroit Rock City, and Heaven’s on Fire. KISS last graced Dubai in December 2020, delivering a monumental New Year’s Eve concert at Atlantis, The Palm, where they broke two Guinness World Records while captivating a global audience of two million. Tickets are available via Platinumlist from AED 295.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Saturday 14 October
Feast on Zuma’s Baikingu Brunch
Zuma’s fresh take on the traditional izakaya-style dining adds a touch of sophistication to your Saturday with the Baikingu Brunch. The fantastic feast includes Zuma’s signature shrimp tempura, crispy fried squid, and an array of sashimi, nigiri, and maki sushi. Brunch continues with offerings from the live robata cooking station, including the succulent miso-marinated black cod, jumbo tiger prawns, and grilled Australian wagyu ribeye. To sweeten the experience, an assortment of desserts awaits, featuring sorbets, ice creams, chocolates, and a medley of exotic fruits. Saturdays from 12:30pm to 4pm. Prices from AED 595.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
Sunday 15 October
Travel to India at MASTI
MASTI at The Dubai Edition is set to elevate your weekends with its new Desi Brunch. The three-course meal features Spinach and Kale Leaves Chaat, Panipuri filled with spiced mashed potatoes and coriander-tamarind water, Mysore Masala Dosa and the Pindi Chana-Kulcha. Satisfying your sweet tooth, desserts include hot Gulab Jamuns served with vanilla ice cream, peanut butter kulfi accompanied by caramel basundi and sea salt, and chocolate cream brulee paired with chocolate custard and fresh berries. Sundays from 1pm to 5pm. AED 250 (soft beverages) and AED 399 (house beverages).
GO: Visit www.mastidubai.com for reservations and more information.
Monday 16 October
Strike it lucky at the world’s highest bowling alley
Situated atop the Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, The 44 defies the conventional sports bar experience, elevating entertainment to new heights. The venue’s double-lane bowling alley, which happens to be the world’s tallest, promises a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Elsewhere, an outdoor terrace awaits, complete with a bar, pool tables, and even a pinball machine.
GO: Visit https://the44dubai.com for more information.
Tuesday 17 October
Enjoy an A-list cinema experience
At Azul, located within Cinema City Fountain Views, guests can elevate their movie-watching experience with 28 ultra-plush luxury recliners and a fully stocked bar. A dedicated bartender is at your service throughout the film, ready to fulfil your food and beverage orders. Expect a cinematic experience like no other, where luxury and gastronomy seamlessly come together.
GO: Visit www.cinemacity.ae for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 18 October
Rock out with Robbie Williams
Let him entertain you. British superstar Robbie Williams is performing at Etihad Arena on Wednesday, 18 October. The hitmaker is bringing his showmanship to Abu Dhabi, and will be celebrating his 25-year career. Robbie hails from Stoke on Trent, England. After his mum saw an advert seeking members for a new boyband, he went on to audition for Take That. He started in the group in 1990, and launched his solo career in 1996. If his previous concerts are anything to go by, we’re expecting cheeky banter, high energy, and, of course, non-stop hits. His biggest songs include Feel, Millennium, Rock DJ and She’s the One. Plus, Angels, which was written in 25 minutes, and went on to become his best-selling single.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for more information.
Thursday 19 October
Enjoy a night of jubilant jazz
Sean Lipsey is set to grace the stage and serenade diners with the grooviest tunes at Soirée Wine Bar inside The Opus Tower by Zaha Hadid. This contemporary social club provides the perfect setting for gathering with your closest friends to enjoy bar bites and beverages. Thursdays from 8pm to 11pm.
GO: Visit https://soireedxb.com for reservations and more information.
Friday 20 October
See the Father of Mediterranean Music at Coca-Cola Arena
Egyptian singer, songwriter, and actor Amr Diab will perform at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena this October. Known as the “Father of Mediterranean Music,” Amr Diab has consistently pushed artistic boundaries by seamlessly blending traditional Arabic melodies with contemporary pop and electronic influences. His four-decade career boasts a staggering catalogue of more than 30 albums, earning him the title of the best-selling Middle Eastern artist in the Guinness World Records. With seven World Music Awards, five Platinum Record Awards, and six African Music Awards to his name, Amr Diab’s concert promises to be the highlight of Dubai’s musical calendar for 2023. Tickets from AED 195.
GO: Visit coca-cola-arena.com for tickets and more information.
Saturday 21 October
Enjoy DXBeats with Craig David
The British singer. Craig David is headed to DXBeats at Barasti Beach Bar. He is famous for his mix of soul, garage and R&B. He hit the headlines when he was 19 years old, and his debut single, Fill Me In and album Born to Do It topped the UK charts. His hit singles include 7 Days, Rise & Fall and Walking Away. Over his career, he has sold 15 million records and been nominated for 14 BRIT Awards and two Grammy Awards.
GO: Visit www.dxbeats.ae for rickes and more information.
Sunday 22 October
Laugh out loud with Andrew Schulz
Prepare for a storm of laughter because the hilarious Andrew Schulz performs at Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Renowned for creating and starring in Netflix’s “Schulz Saves America,” the comedian is known for tackling divisive subjects with humour. With his own podcast, “Flagrant,” and notable screen appearances, including the remake of “White Men Can’t Jump,” alongside Jack Harlow, and “You People,” with Eddie Murphy and Jonah Hill, Andrew Schulz is set to leave a lasting comedic impression. Tickets are available via Platinumlist.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Monday 23 October
Have lunch at LPM
Long-standing DIFC hotspot LPM Restaurant & Bar presents an enticing two or three-course business menu meticulously crafted to be enjoyed within a 60-minute timeframe. Among these delectable offerings, you can relish the creamy Burrata with ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, savour the warmth of prawns drizzled with olive oil, delight in succulent roast baby chicken marinated in zesty lemon, and experience the flavours of sea bream cooked in Papillote with confit lemon. Available Monday to Friday, from 12pm to 3pm. AED 135 per person (one starter and one main course) and AED 180 per person (two starters, one main course and one scoop of ice cream).
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 24 October
Sip on a golden cappuccino
Occupying a premium position opposite the Giorgio Armani boutique in Dubai Mall, the new cafe Armani/Caffè embodies the signature style of Giorgio Armani, reinterpreting Italian pavement café-style social occasions for a Dubai audience. Here, you can sip on the famous Armani gold cappuccino, crafted from a blend of premium coffee beans and luxuriously crowned with a generous layer of 23-karat gold.
GO: Email reception@armanicaffe.ae or call 04 362 7888 for more information.
Wednesday 25 October
Refuel with Rüya’s business lunch
Rüya Dubai now offers an enticing three-course business lunch menu that blends modern Anatolian cuisine with stunning sea and skyline vistas. The culinary journey features Red Lentil Soup, Cig Kofte (beef tartare with bulgur and baby gem), Gavurdagi (tomato salad with shallots and spiced walnuts), Two Cheese Pide with slow-cooked egg, and Adana Kebap made with tender lamb and burnt tomato. Available Monday to Friday, from 12pm to 3:30pm. AED 130 per person.
GO: Email ruya.dubai@stregis.com or call 04 218 0065 for reservations and more information.
Thursday 26 October
Watch a master violinist
Get ready for a thrilling ride with David Garrett at Dubai Opera. This violinist knows how to bring the house down with his electrifying performances. We guarantee you’ll be mesmerised when he seamlessly blends classical and contemporary music, creating a symphony of epic proportions. It’s a musical journey that will leave you breathless and begging for an encore.
GO: Visit www.dubaiopera.com for tickets and more information.
Friday 27 October
Explore Alserkal Avenue
If you ever find yourself doubting Dubai’s cultural depth, we strongly recommend visiting Alserkal Avenue. This lively hub of arts and culture boasts a thriving community of contemporary art galleries. Here, visitors have the opportunity to delve into a rich tapestry of exhibitions, installations, performances, and interactive workshops, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in Dubai’s ever-evolving art scene.
Visit https://alserkal.online for more information.
Saturday 28 October
Dance with Dizzee Rascal
Are you ready to go bonkers? British garage star Dizzee Rascal is coming to Dubai. Taking place at Emirates Golf Club on 28 October, the event will showcase his hits. Dylan Kwabena Mills, better known as Dizzee Rascal, hails from Bow in East London. In 2003, he released his first album, Boy in Da Corner. The singles included I Luv U and Fix Up, Look Sharp. At 19 years old, he won the Mercury Prize for the best album, and became the youngest recipient of the award. We are hoping the concert in Dubai includes his hit songs Bonkers, Dance Wiv Me, and Holiday. Tickets are available via Platinumlist from AED 275.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Sunday 29 October
Beat the Sunday blues
Crafty Fox at Jumeirah Golf Estates offers a Sunday roast with all the trimmings. The meal includes masterful meats, Yorkshire puddings and lashings of gravy, with each plate paired with a complimentary glass of house grape or a pint of hops. Sundays from 12:30pm to 3:30pm and 5pm to 8pm. AED 145 per plate
GO: Visit dubaigolf.com for reservations and more information.
Monday 30 October
Exprience Arabian Nights
Explore the sights, sounds and tastes of Arabia set amidst the beautiful dunes at Al Hadheerah, nestled within the grounds of Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort. Immerse yourself in a Dubai dinner show that takes place within the walls of a traditional fort, and prepare to be enchanted as dazzling falconry displays, majestic camel caravans, equestrian showcases, and mesmerising Tanoura dancers converge to create an unforgettable dining spectacle. Available daily, from 7pm to midnight.
GO: Visit www.babalshams.com for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 31 October
Ride the Storm Coaster
Embark on an exhilarating journey and strap yourself into the Storm Coaster at Dubai Hills Mall. This heart-pounding indoor roller coaster promises a thrilling fusion of twists, turns, and breakneck speeds that will leave you speechless. With its breathtaking drops or exhilarating loops, Storm Coaster is an absolute must for thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies.
Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
