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. As autumn arrives, Dubai comes alive. September is packed with excitement, featuring a variety of sporting events and culinary experiences. Plus, there are concerts and cultural events. Here are the best things to do in Dubai in September 2026.
Tuesday 1 September
Eat at the newly opened Noren
Noren has brought a new Japanese dining experience to Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Created by former Zuma veterans Ilir Caushi and Pawel Kazanowski, the neighbourhood restaurant is designed for everything from business lunches to late-night drinks. The menu spans sushi, raw dishes and plates from the grill, with highlights including chutoro with jalapeño dressing, grilled tuna steak with wafu sauce, red miso-glazed bone marrow and king crab with Hokkaido lemon butter. An open kitchen, sushi counter and central island bar anchor the space, while an extensive sake selection and signature cocktails complete the offering. Natural timber and tactile finishes keep the interiors warm and understated.
Where: Noren, Pullman Hotel, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai
Contact: www.norenrestaurant.com
Wednesday 2 September
Feast at Gymkhana
London’s two-Michelin-starred Gymkhana has officially opened in DIFC, marking the acclaimed Indian restaurant’s Dubai debut. Led by Executive Chef Rahul Rana, the menu draws on North Indian traditions, with signature dishes including Tandoori Masala Lamb Chops, Chicken Butter Masala and Achari Paneer Tikka. Dubai-exclusive additions range from Chettinad Duck Dosa and Wagyu Beef Sukka to Rasmalai & Emirati Qishta. Spanning two levels and a terrace, the 137-seat restaurant reinterprets the Mayfair flagship with stained glass, timber detailing and the striking Peacock Bar. Founded by JKS Restaurants in 2013, the FACT award-winning Gymkhana has global outposts in Las Vegas, London and Riyadh.
Where: Gymkhana, Gate Village 7, DIFC, Dubai
When: Monday to Sunday from 18:30pm to 1am
Contact: https://gymkhanarestaurants.com
Thursday 3 September
Dine at FACT’s Restaurant of the Year
MANĀO has introduced a new Chef’s Tasting Menu, offering an eight-course journey through Thai-inspired flavours, fermentation and fire. Priced at AED 350 per person, the experience opens with Beef Miang, before moving into dishes such as Lobster Khanom Krok, Scallop Rice Cake, Sour Tomato Broth, Sticky Rice Roti with Beef, Coconut Meat and Pomelo Salad, and a choice of Spicy Lamb Curry or Yellow Curry with Prawn. Desserts include Rosella Granita and White Rose Custard, while optional supplements range from Crab Shoulder to Mango Sticky Rice. Chef-driven and deeply personal, MANĀO continues to bridge fine dining and casual energy in Dubai.
Where: MANĀO, Wasl Vita, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm
Contact: https://manao.ae
Friday 4 September
Partner Listing: Take a dip at Vida Dubai Mall
Swap the city streets for a rooftop escape at Vida Dubai Mall. Flo Pool Bar is offering all-day pool access for AED 99 per person, with the full amount redeemable against food and drinks. Settle into a lounger, cool off with a swim and take in views of Dubai’s ever-changing skyline. Whether you are planning a lazy afternoon in the sun or simply looking for somewhere to sip, snack and unwind, this easy-going daycation makes for a tempting midweek or weekend retreat.
Where: Vida Dubai Mall, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai
When: Daily from 11am to 9pm
Contact: www.vidahotels.com
Saturday 5 September
Enjoy a date night dinner at Sa’Cha by Pang
Saturday Date Night at Sa’Cha by Pang pairs a cinematic setting with confident cross-cultural cooking. Set on the Dubai Creek Harbour waterfront, the restaurant combines skyline views with lush greenery, animal-inspired details and an open kitchen that adds theatre to the evening. For AED 188 per person, diners choose one appetiser and one main course, with chaufa served to share between two. Starters range from seabream ceviche and prawn-and-chicken dumplings to beef tartare with cassava waffle and Argentinian prawns in miso butter. Mains include Sa’Cha Mee Goreng, grilled chicken with mole negro, Amazonian fish with sambal and finger lime, or Malaysian duck with rocoto hoisin and kumquat jam. Desserts can be added for AED 40.
Where: Sa’Cha by Pang, Address Creek Harbour Hotel, Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai
When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6pm to 11pm
Price: AED 188 per person
Contact: @sa.cha_dxb
Sunday 6 September
Enjoy pizza and gelato at Bvlgari Resort Dubai
Bvlgari Resort Dubai is bringing a taste of Italy to Jumeira Bay this summer with La Terrazza, an immersive seasonal destination overlooking the marina. The concept transforms Il Caffé into a Mediterranean-inspired retreat celebrating L’Estate Italiana, the latest summer experience from Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts. Inside, floral fabrics, citrus accents and lush greenery evoke an Italian villa, while the enclosed terrace offers a comfortable waterfront setting. Dining highlights include Pizza Bar by Pier Daniele Seu, where guests can enjoy long-fermented dough creations, and Il Gelato by Chef Niko Romito, serving freshly made regional flavours. La Terrazza will also screen FIFA World Cup 2026 matches with extended opening hours.
Where: La Terrazza, Bvlgari Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Bay Island, Dubai, UAE
When: Daily until 30 September 2026
Contact: www.bulgarihotels.com
Monday 7 September
Check out a 24/7 shisha spot
LOOP has opened at Trillionaire Residences by Binghatti in Business Bay, introducing a Mediterranean-inspired all-day dining and lounge concept overlooking the Dubai Canal. The venue moves from early breakfasts and business lunches to evening dining, shisha and late-night gatherings. The menu includes speciality coffee, traditional Turkish breakfast spreads, Mediterranean dishes, tea rituals and handcrafted beverages. Warm natural textures, contemporary finishes, ambient lighting and a terrace with floor cooling create a comfortable setting throughout the day.
Where: LOOP, Trillionaire Residences by Binghatti, Business Bay, Dubai
When: Open 24/7
Contact: https://looprestaurant.ae
Tuesday 8 September
Eat at celebrity favourite Siena
Siena has arrived in DIFC, bringing the glamour of its Paris original to Dubai. The restaurant first built its reputation in France as a celebrity magnet, welcoming Rihanna, LeBron James, Pharrell Williams, Gigi Hadid, Jay-Z, Kendall Jenner, and Ciara. Now, that same sense of occasion has landed in the city, pairing Parisian polish with Tuscan soul in a setting designed for elegant dinners and late-night lingering. With its fresco-inspired interiors and elevated Italian menu of pizza, pasta and carpaccio dishes, Siena Dubai delivers the experience that made the Paris outpost a talking point, now reimagined for one of Dubai’s most stylish dining districts.
Where: Siena Dubai, Gate Village 7, DIFC, Dubai
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm
Contact: https://siena-restaurants.com
Wednesday 9 September
Sample the omakase at KIGO
KIGO has opened at Four Seasons Hotel DIFC, a refined Japanese restaurant from Chef Izu Ani, Head Chef Akinori “Aki” Tanigawa, and Sushi Head Chef Daihachiro Ebata. The menu centres on a counter-style omakase and an elegant kaiseki set, celebrating seasonality and restraint. The 44-seat room is minimalist and serene, anchored by an Aji stone sushi counter and Rimpa-inspired art. Japanese tableware and ikebana underscore the craft. Sip rare sakes, including Shigemasu 18 Junmai Daiginjo, seasonal cocktails, and ceremonial matcha to close.
Where: Kigo, Four Seasons Hotel DIFC, Zaa’beel Second, DIFC, Dubai
When: Open Wednesday to Sunday from 6pm to midnight
Contact: www.kigodubai.com
Thursday 10 September
Try the terrific tasting menu at FZN
FACT award winner FZN by Björn Frantzén continues to raise the bar with a new menu that moves between precision, luxury and quiet Nordic confidence. The latest progression opens with delicate bites such as a Crustacean tartlet, Maitake Vol-au-vent and Blini with Wagyu “aburi”, before unfolding into Scallop Crudo with buttermilk, Langoustine with koshihikari rice, and Chawanmushi with beef broth, razor clam and shiitake. Elsewhere, Otoro is paired with fermented tomato and Frantzén Selection caviar, while Venison “BBQ” arrives with Medjool date, périgourdine and foie gras. Refined, restrained and deeply memorable, it’s FZN at full power.
Where: FZN, Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
When: Open Wednesday to Saturday from 7pm
Contact: www.restaurantfzn.com
Friday 11 September
Partner Listing: Visit the new Buffalo Wings & Rings
Buffalo Wings & Rings has expanded its Dubai footprint with a third location in Town Square. The latest branch of the American sports restaurant, which originated in Cincinnati, Ohio, brings the brand’s familiar mix of wings, burgers and live sports to one of Dubai’s most popular residential communities. Designed as a casual neighbourhood hangout, the Town Square venue offers a new place to catch the game, meet friends and tuck into American comfort food.
Where: Buffalo Wings & Rings, Town Square, Al Qudra Road, Dubai
When: Daily from 12pm to 1am
Contact: dubai.bwr-intl.com
Saturday 12 September
Check into Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
The latest addition to Jumeirah Group’s ultra-luxury portfolio sits in the shadow of the iconic Burj Al Arab. The venue emerges with quiet confidence, gliding onto Dubai’s glittering skyline like the very superyacht it’s designed to emulate. Designed by Shaun Killa, it is home to 386 rooms and suites, 82 serviced residences, and an 82-berth superyacht marina. Perfect for a digital detox, the lobby is a laptop-free zone, creating a peaceful atmosphere away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The dining truly anchors the hotel, with The Fore at its heart – an all-day dining venue that offers four restaurants in one. Plus, there are four outdoor pools to choose from, a swathe of private beach and a superb spa.
Where: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Jumeira Street, Umm Suqeim, Dubai
Contact: www.jumeirah.com
Sunday 13 September
Relax poolside at Sirene by GAIA
Created by Evgeny Kuzin and Chef Izu Ani, the FACT award-winning Sirene Beach by GAIA offers a luxurious yet laid-back coastal retreat at J1 Beach. Sirene is the world’s biggest beach club, with a 400-seat restaurant, 300 beachfront sunbeds, and exclusive private cabanas. Guests can unwind to curated beats from the resident DJ or dine on GAIA’s signature classics, such as Seabream Carpaccio and Frozen Yoghurt, alongside new creations like Rooster Pasta, Sirene Dakos, and a decadent Caviar & Oyster experience.
Where: Sirene by GAIA, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
When: Open daily from 10am
Price: Beach beds are AED 200 (fully redeemable on weekdays only)
Contact: www.sirenebeach.com
Monday 14 September
Tee off at TopGolf
Let out your inner Daniel McIlroy. Topgolf Dubai has turned the traditional driving range into a high-energy social destination, making it just as appealing to first-timers as to seasoned players. Located at Emirates Golf Club, the venue features 96 climate-controlled hitting bays across three levels, alongside interactive games, food, drinks and striking views towards Dubai Marina. Guests can book bays by the hour, with up to six players sharing one bay, making it ideal for group outings, celebrations and casual nights out.
Where: Topgolf Dubai, Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills, Dubai
When: Open daily from 10am to 2am
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Tuesday 15 September
Smash some tacos at El Primo
Hold on to your sombrero. The Mexican-born chef Jonathan Colin has announced the opening of his new restaurant, El Primo. Located in Al Wasl, the taqueria will bring to life the food, fun and festivities of Mexico City. The venue aims to offer no-frills, but a whole lot of heart, with comfort food and comforting vibes. The design and décor will evoke a laid-back 1980s vibe, and the interiors will feature red-and-white tiling. Jonathan draws inspiration from traditional Mexican tacos and is behind the successful K’IIN Supperclub in Dubai.
Where: El Primo Taquería, Bada’a Aswaaq Mall, Al Wasl Road, Dubai
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm to midnight
Contact: @taqueria_elprimo_dubai
Wednesday 16 September
Dine in Dubai’s wonderful wagyu room
Sutēki is now open at Dubai Harbour, bringing a wagyu-led dining experience to the waterfront. The new concept from AlphaMind Group is being positioned as a wagyu room with an art-house point of view, drawing inspiration from Tokyo’s contemporary dining culture. The menu is dedicated entirely to wagyu beef, spanning raw preparations, grilled signatures and refined reinterpretations, while the drinks programme features more than 20 Japanese whiskies, alongside wine, sake and minimalist cocktails. Inside, low lighting, warm wood, eclectic art and waterfront views set the scene.
Where: Sutēki, Harbour House, Dubai Harbour
When: Wednesday to Sunday, from 6pm to 3am
Contact: www.sutekidubai.com
Thursday 17 September
Cool off at La Petite Maison
The FACT award-winning La Petite Maison has introduced Tomatini Sorbet, a new summer dessert inspired by the restaurant’s signature Tomatini cocktail. Created in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Danny Khezzar, the alcohol-free dish is available at LPM restaurants in Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai and Riyadh. The sorbet combines vine tomatoes, white balsamic vinegar and tomato vinegar, resulting in a fresh, fruity finish. It is served with French toast brioche, tomato confit and basil, offering a playful new take on one of LPM’s best-known creations.
Where: La Petite Maison, Gate Village 8, DIFC, Dubai
When: Daily from 12pm to 1am
Contact: https://lpmrestaurants.com
Friday 18 September
Party with Paul Oakenfold
British DJ and producer Paul Oakenfold is returning to Dubai for The Legends of Trance at The Agenda on 18 September 2026. A key figure in the rise of electronic dance music, Oakenfold helped bring Balearic beats, progressive house and trance into the mainstream during the late 1980s and 1990s. Across a career spanning more than four decades, he has worked with Madonna, U2 and The Rolling Stones, while releasing enduring tracks including “Ready Steady Go,” “Southern Sun,” “Starry Eyed Surprise” and “Faster Kill Pussycat.” Oakenfold has also performed in unusual locations, including Mount Everest Base Camp and Stonehenge.
Where: The Agenda, Abdullah Omran Taryam Street, Dubai Media City, Dubai
When: Friday, 18 September 2026 at 8pm
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Saturday 19 September
Sleep at Atlantis The Royal
For residents seeking a truly luxurious escape, Atlantis The Royal offers a staycation experience unlike any other in Dubai. The resort combines striking design with exceptional experiences at every turn. Highlights include the sky-high Cloud 22 pool, dressed in the iconic Dolce & Gabbana Carretto Siciliano print, and the mesmerising fire-and-water fountain show set to Diamond in the Desert by Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer. Choose from some of the city’s most impressive accommodation, from the Panoramic Suite with sweeping 360-degree views to the ultra-luxurious Sky Pool Villa. Enjoy a 25% discount on rooms, suites and penthouses if you book direct.
Where: Atlantis The Royal, Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Contact: www.atlantis.com
Sunday 20 September
Make a splash at Aquaventure
Aquaventure Waterpark remains one of Dubai’s most thrilling family attractions, pairing big-ticket adrenaline with all-day resort appeal. Located at Atlantis, The Palm, the sprawling destination features more than 105 slides, attractions and experiences, from record-breaking rides and river rapids to a private beach and the Surf’s Up wave rider. It is equally suited to younger guests, thanks to dedicated splash zones and family-friendly play areas, making it an easy crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Where: Aquaventure, Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Contact: https://dubai.platinumlist.net
Monday 21 September
Enjoy a memorable meal at CARBONE
New York’s CARBONE has opened its doors in Dubai at Atlantis The Royal. The celebrity favourite takes over the space previously occupied by Resonance by Heston Blumenthal and boasts the world’s largest jellyfish tank. Fans can definitely look forward to indulging in Carbone’s signature Spicy Rigatoni. Other favourites such as Chicken Scarpariello, Linguini Vongole, Seafood Salad, and Veal Parmesan are also expected to grace the menu, along with more of the American-Italian cuisine that has made Carbone so famous.
Where: CARBONE Dubai, Atlantis The Royal, Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
When: Open daily from 6pm to 11pm
Contact: @carbonedxb
Tuesday 22 September
Check out Dubai’s only indoor skate park
Gooder Skate Park brings a fresh jolt of energy to Alserkal Avenue, offering Dubai’s first indoor concrete skatepark in one of the city’s most creative districts. Built as a skater-owned, community-driven space, it goes beyond ramps and rails, combining the park with Habibi Skate Shop, Ollie’s Pizzeria and DRVN café under one roof. The result is part skate hub, part social hangout, with a design that keeps the action going year-round, even through the summer heat. Plus, entry is free.
Where: Gooder, Warehouse 8, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai
When: Open daily from 11am to 8pm
Contact: @gooderskateboarding
Wednesday 23 September
Visit the 21grams Test Kitchen
The FACT Dining Award-winning Balkan bistro 21grams has launched its Test Kitchen, a new platform for seasonal experimentation, responsible sourcing and creative collaboration. Created by founder Stasha Toncev and Executive Chef Milan Jurkovic, the concept allows the team to explore new ingredients and techniques while preserving the restaurant’s familiar Balkan identity. The evolving menu is guided by seasonal produce, waste reduction and thoughtful ingredient use. Opening dishes include Steak & Eggs with marinated steak, poached eggs and kashkaval, Gyros Chicken with lemon sauce and capers, and a rotating Catch of the Day. Vegetable-led options include Tomato Salad and Baked Cabbage with brown butter, cheese and pepper, while the nostalgic Tufahiya provides a sweet finish.
Where: 21grams, Meyan Mall, Al Thanya Street, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai
When: Open daily from 8am to 5pm
Contact: http://21grams.me
Thursday 24 September
Enjoy a Mediterranean feast at ZEA
ZEA Dubai has launched PAREA, a new Mediterranean dinner experience combining sharing plates, live entertainment and late-night energy in DIFC. The evening begins with dinner before resident DJ Mishti, percussionists and dancers turn up the tempo until 2am. The sharing menu includes a Seafood Tower, Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, Chicken Anticuchos and ZEA Guacamole. For mains, guests can choose from Australian Wagyu Beef Tenderloin, Baby Chicken with Peruvian chilli or Asparagus Risotto, served with sides including Truffle Parmesan Fries and Charred Broccolini.
Where: Zea, Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC, Dubai
When: Thursdays and Saturdays from 9pm to 2am
Price: Packages from AED 260 per person
Contact: https://zeadubai.com
Friday 25 September
Luxuriate at The Lana – Dorchester Collection
Escape the city without leaving it at The Lana – Dorchester Collection, where a refined UAE resident staycation brings together skyline views, elegant design and elevated dining. Set on Marasi Bay Marina in Downtown Dubai, guests can unwind in serene rooms with views of Burj Khalifa and the marina, lounge by the rooftop pool at the FACT award-winning High Society, and enjoy dining at Veranda, The Gallery and Bonbon Café Angelo Musa.
Where: The Lana – Dorchester Collection, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, Dubai
Contact: www.dorchestercollection.com
Saturday 26 September
Hit the sand at Nikki Beach Dubai
If you want to visit FACT’s ‘Best Beachclub in Dubai’ for 2026, head to Nikki Beach Dubai. Winner of multiple FACT awards, this beach club continues to define barefoot luxury on Pearl Jumeira. The stylish space pairs a white-sand shoreline with an oversized leisure pool, a swim-up bar, and a lineup of sunbeds, cabanas, and VIP spaces that keep the vibe high from day to night. First opened in 2016, the venue recently refreshed its look, reinforcing its status as one of the city’s most enduring day-to-night destinations. Add coastal cuisine from Chef Kavish Chimajee, signature cocktails and regular DJ-led happenings, and it remains a go-to for glamorous seaside escapes in Dubai.
Where: Nikki Beach Dubai, Pearl Jumeira, Dubai
When: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 7pm
Contact: https://nikkibeach.com
Sunday 27 September
Escape to Bali with the Andaliman brunch
Set on Level 24 of The Link at One Za’abeel, Andaliman brings the flavours of the Indonesian archipelago to Dubai with bold sambals, dishes cooked over a coconut husk grill and an open kitchen that adds theatre to the experience. On Sundays, the restaurant turns up the tropical spirit with a relaxed, family-friendly brunch. The spread celebrates Indonesian comfort food alongside live cooking stations serving dishes such as beef brisket and grilled chicken, creating an easy-going afternoon for groups and families. An à la carte menu is also available upon request.
Where: Andaliman, The Link at One Za’abeel, Zaa’beel First, Dubai
When: Sundays from 1pm to 4pm
Price: AED 260 (soft beverages) and AED 410 (house beverages)
Contact: www.oneandonlyresorts.com
Monday 28 September
Escape to Dubai’s adventure capital
Caravan Hatta by Our Habitas is now accepting bookings for stays from 28 September 2026, with rates from AED 1,130 per night including breakfast. Set against the Hajar Mountains and overlooking Hatta Dam, the low-impact retreat features 50 bespoke airstream trailers with private decks and valley or lakeside views. At its heart, the Lake House brings together an infinity pool, open-air dining, food trucks and live barbecue stations. Guests can also enjoy yoga, meditation, sound healing, hot and cold therapies, hiking, cycling, kayaking and paddleboarding. Following the success of Caravan AlUla, the retreat brings Our Habitas’ nature-led approach to Dubai’s adventure capital.
Where: Caravan Hatta by Our Habitas, Hatta, Dubai
When: Stays available from Monday, 28 September 2026
Contact: www.ourhabitas.com
Tuesday 29 September
Feast on Dubai’s only dessert tasting menu
If you believe that there is always room for dessert, then BRIX deserves a spot on your list. Created by the team behind 3Fils, the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour venue is known for offering the UAE’s only dessert tasting menus. The concept turns sweet treats into a full dining experience, with inventive flavour combinations and carefully composed plates. The wider menu includes familiar favourites such as milk cake, tiramisu, carrot cake and cheesecake, as well as more daring creations. Intimate, creative and designed for those with a sweet tooth, BRIX proves dessert can take centre stage.
Where: BRIX Journey, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Al Urouba Street, Dubai
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 3pm to 10pm
Contact: https://brixdessert.com
Wednesday 30 September
Sip at a new speakeasy
Bondz has opened at Emirates Financial Towers in DIFC, introducing a speakeasy-inspired executive lounge designed for work, dining and after-hours socialising. Created by founder Ashish Agrawal, the intimate venue transitions from a co-working and networking space into a lively evening lounge. Rich wood panelling, leather seating and ambient lighting create a refined setting, while Executive Chef Brando Del Mundo serves globally inspired dishes including Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Hamachi Ceviche, sushi rolls, bao buns, tacos and sliders. The drinks menu features signature cocktails, premium spirits and wines, with playful creations inspired by Southeast Asian flavours.
Where: Bondz, Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC
When: Daily from 12pm to 3am
Contact: https://bondzdubai.com