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.
Thursday 1 October
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
Friday 2 October
Try MANĀO’s New Tasting Menus
End the week with a fresh take on contemporary Thai cuisine as the FACT award-winning MANĀO introduces two new tasting menus from chefs Abhiraj Khatwani and Mohamad Orfali. The shorter eight-course experience runs for around 90 minutes and features signatures including Miang and Lobster Khanom Krok. Those wanting the complete experience can opt for the 12-course menu, which unfolds across approximately two hours with dishes such as King Crab served two ways, shredded lamb curry and coconut-smoked short rib sticky rice roti. A passion fruit granita with jasmine and chewy pineapple closes the meal. Sunday lunch also introduces an à la carte option for diners who prefer greater flexibility.
Where: MANĀO, Wasl Vita, Jumeirah, Dubai
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm
Contact: https://manao.ae
Saturday 3 October
See Lost Frequencies live at Bohemia
Belgian DJ and producer Félix De Laet, better known as Lost Frequencies, has been selected to open the season. His international breakthrough came with “Are You With Me”, which reached number one in 18 countries and made him the first Belgian artist to top the UK singles chart. He followed it with hits including “Reality”, “Where Are You Now” with Calum Scott and “Black Friday (Pretty Like the Sun)” with Tom Odell. His melodic approach to electronic music has made him a regular on major festival stages, including Tomorrowland. Sam Oui will also perform on opening night.
Where: Bohemia Beach Club, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
When: Saturday, 3 October 2026
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Sunday 4 October
Celebrate Autumnal Kaiseki Artistry at KIGO
Seasonality sits at the heart of KIGO’s latest menu as the Japanese restaurant marks its first anniversary at Four Seasons Hotel DIFC. Chef Akinori Tanigawa has revived the restaurant’s Autumn Menu through an eight-course Signature Sushi Kaiseki experience celebrating the produce and flavours associated with the season. Dishes include vinegared barracuda with dried persimmon, chawanmushi with chilled grilled eggplant purée, Pacific saury and autumn mushrooms cooked over hōba leaf. The progression continues with slow-braised A5 Kumamoto Black Wagyu, seasonal sushi and premium Japanese fruits. Priced at AED 1,500 per person, it is an elaborate showcase of traditional Japanese technique.
Where: Kigo, Four Seasons Hotel DIFC, Zaa’beel Second, DIFC, Dubai
When: Open Wednesday to Sunday from 6pm to midnight
Contact: www.kigodubai.com
Monday 5 October
Have a laugh with Shawn Chidiac
Dubai’s homegrown comedy disruptor Shawn Chidiac, best known online as My Parents Are Divorced, returns with his solo headline show Laughing in Translation Remix on 5 October at Coca-Cola Arena. Fresh from sold-out nights at Dubai Opera and viral sketches that nail life between cultures, Chidiac leans into rapid-fire characters, spot-on accents and the awkward moments every Dubai resident recognises. Expect sharp observations on identity, family, dating and diaspora drama.
Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Satwa, Dubai
When: Monday, 5 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Tuesday 6 October
Catch Marilyne Naaman live in Dubai
Lebanese singer and actress Marilyne Naaman is steadily becoming one of the region’s most interesting crossover performers. Her musical style combines Arabic influences with contemporary pop, while her appearance on The Voice France in 2023 introduced her to a wider international audience. Naaman has also developed an acting career across film and television, appearing in series including Aa Amal and Bil Dam. Her Dubai Opera concert offers a chance to hear songs such as “Nachez”, “5 Minutes” and “Lech Ma Bterjaa?” live.
Where: Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
When: Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Wednesday 7 October
Return to TERO for a Journey Through Asia
Chef Reif Othman’s intimate 12-seat counter, TERO, has returned from its summer break with a new six-course menu titled A Journey Through Asia. Described as an “unconventional omakase”, the experience reworks familiar flavours from across the continent through surprising combinations and playful presentations. Dishes include Southeast Asian Pie Tee filled with octopus and pomelo, Akami with strawberry dabu-dabu and tamarind, Kagoshima wagyu dolma with smoked yoghurt, and a reinterpretation of Filipino Kare-kare using kingfish. Served inside REIF Japanese Kushiyaki, the chef’s table remains one of Dubai’s more intimate dining experiences. The six-course menu starts from AED 388 per person.
Where: TERO, REIF Japanese Kushiyaki, Dubai Hills Business Park, Dubai
When: Wednesdays to Sundays, seatings at 6pm and 8pm
Contact: www.terodubai.com
Thursday 8 October
Watch The Amy Winehouse Band
Two decades after the release of Back to Black, musicians who performed alongside Amy Winehouse are celebrating one of modern music’s most distinctive voices. The Amy Winehouse Band is led by the singer’s long-time musical director, bassist and close friend Dale Davis, alongside original musicians from her touring and studio years. A female vocalist selected by Davis leads songs from Frank, Back to Black and Lioness: Hidden Treasures, with “Rehab”, “Valerie”, “Tears Dry on Their Own” and the title track among the likely highlights.
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Friday 9 October
Experience Aquaventure After Dark
Aquaventure After Dark returns to Atlantis, The Palm on Friday, 9 October 2026, inviting guests aged 13 and above to slide, swim and dance from 8pm until midnight. More than 105 slides, rides and attractions will open after sunset, including Odyssey of Terror, Blackout and Immortal Falls. Lasers, flame effects and live entertainment will transform the park, with Torrent Beach hosting the main stage and Trident Tower showcasing emerging sounds and interactive experiences. Refuel with burgers, pizzas and loaded fries, or extend a daytime visit with the new After Dark add-on, available to guests purchasing a Day Pass.
Where: Aquaventure World, Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
When: Friday, 9 October 2026 from 8pm
Contact: aquaventureworld.com
Saturday 10 October
Party on the sand with Robin Schulz
German producer Robin Schulz returns to Dubai on Saturday, 10 October. Schulz rose to international prominence through his remixes of Mr. Probz’s “Waves”, before scoring another huge crossover hit with “Sugar” featuring Francesco Yates. His catalogue also includes “Sun Goes Down”, “OK”, “Speechless” and “All We Got”. With more than 12 billion streams worldwide, his accessible mix of house, pop and melody has made him one of Germany’s most successful electronic exports. His Bohemia set will also feature material including “Arizona.”
Where: Bohemia Beach Club, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
When: Saturday, 10 October 2026
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Sunday 11 October
Partner Listing: Dine in the desert
The FACT award-winning Farmhouse by Syrco has reopened at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, offering a destination dining experience surrounded by sweeping desert landscapes. Led by acclaimed chef Syrco Bakker, the restaurant places seasonal produce and generous sharing plates at the heart of its new chapter. Diners can choose from the à la carte menu, three surprise tasting menus or an intimate Chef’s Table experience, while the dedicated Wine Bar invites guests to explore carefully selected pours. Set away from the city, Farmhouse by Syrco is designed for those willing to make the journey for a memorable meal in the desert.
Where: The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert, Wadi Khadija, Ras Al Khaimah
Contact: www.ritzcarlton.com
Monday 12 October
Laugh out loud with Mo Gilligan
Mo Gilligan will be taking over Dubai Opera as part of this year’s Dubai Comedy Festival. Expect quick wit, sharp observations, and a high-energy performance that has turned him into one of the world’s biggest comedic exports. This will not be his first stint in Dubai, as the comedian last performed at the same venue as part of the Dubai Comedy Festival in 2024. His show in Dubai follows the recent release of his Netflix documentary Big Chicken: A Fast Food Conspiracy, in which the British comedian investigates “our global fried chicken obsession – and the hidden costs behind our cravings”.
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
When: Monday, 12 October 2026
Contact: www.dubaicomedyfest.ae
Tuesday 13 October
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
Wednesday 14 October
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
Thursday 15 October
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
Friday 16 October
See Shane Todd live in Dubai
Comedian Shane Todd will be making his way from Northern Ireland to Dubai for the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. Taking the stage at New Covent Garden Theatre, audiences can expect his trademark mix of witty observations, hilarious personal stories and energetic delivery. Shane Todd is no stranger to Dubai, having previously performed a sold-out show at the QE2 Theatre. Now, he returns to the city to bring another unforgettable night of comedy to fans.
Where: New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai
When: Friday, 16 October 2026
Contact: www.dubaicomedyfest.ae
Saturday 17 October
See John Achkar at Dubai Opera
Lebanese stand-up comedian John Achkar is set to entertain audiences at Dubai Comedy Festival 2026 with his signature Arabic-language comedy and relatable storytelling. Known for exploring themes such as Arab culture, identity, relationships, marriage, and everyday life, John Achkar has built a strong international following with performances across the world.
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026
Contact: www.dubaicomedyfest.ae
Sunday 18 October
Catch Vir Das at Dubai Comedy Festival
Indian comedian Vir Das is making a highly anticipated return to Dubai as part of the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. Taking the stage at Coca-Cola Arena, he is set to deliver his signature blend of sharp wit, clever storytelling and global observations. Known for his charismatic stage presence and thought-provoking humour, Vir Das promises an evening of big laughs, fresh perspectives and the unique comedic style that has made him one of India’s most celebrated stand-up acts.
Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Al Satwa, Dubai
When: Sunday, 18 October 2026
Contact: www.dubaicomedyfest.ae
Monday 19 October
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
Tuesday 20 October
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 21 October
Run away to the circus with PLUMA
The big top arrives in Dubai as PLUMA opens at Dubai Festival City Mall. Created by Cirque Du Liban, the family-friendly production follows the story of a young girl dreaming of flight, using acrobatics and theatrical storytelling to bring her journey to life. Audiences can look forward to trapeze performances, aerial stunts, visual effects and immersive sound, all staged inside a purpose-built circus tent. Traditional touches such as cotton candy and popcorn add to the atmosphere, making this an easy midweek option for families. PLUMA runs for several weeks, giving Dubai audiences plenty of opportunities to catch the spectacle. Tickets start from AED 100 per person.
Where: PLUMA Circus Tent, Dubai Festival City, Dubai
When: 30 September to 24 October 2026
Contact: dubai.platinumlist.net
Thursday 22 October
Catch Gipsy Kings Symphonic at Dubai Opera
The music of the Gipsy Kings receives an orchestral transformation for this Dubai performance. Led by André Reyes, a founder of the group that helped take rumba flamenca to global audiences, the concert combines acoustic guitars and distinctive vocals with sweeping symphonic arrangements. Familiar tracks such as “Bamboleo”, “Djobi Djoba”, “Volare” and “Un Amor” will be reworked on a larger scale. It marks the act’s first symphonic project on a theatre stage following several previous sold-out appearances in Dubai.
Where: Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
When: Thursday, 22 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Friday 23 October
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. Beach beds are AED 200 (fully redeemable on weekdays only).
Where: Sirene by GAIA, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
When: Daily from 10am until late
Contact: www.sirenebeach.com
Saturday 24 October
Party with Black Coffee at Ushuaïa
Grammy-winning DJ Black Coffee will return to Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience on Saturday, 24 October 2026, headlining the venue’s opening party for its third season. The South African artist has become a regular at Dubai Harbour, following sold-out shows in 2024 and 2025 that attracted more than 15,000 fans. Known for blending Afro house, deep house, soul and African rhythms, Black Coffee has collaborated with Alicia Keys, Drake, Pharrell Williams, Usher and David Guetta. In 2022, he became the first South African artist to win the Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album. His Dubai return will also feature an all-new visual production. Tickets and VIP tables are on sale now.
Where: Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience, Dubai Harbour, Dubai
When: Saturday, 24 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Sunday 25 October
Sing along to the hits with boyband Blue
Get ready for a dose of pure pop nostalgia. The British boy band Blue will reunite for one special night at the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre at Expo City Dubai. The four-piece band includes Antony Costa, Duncan James, Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe. The group rose to fame in the early 2000s with their distinctive R&B-infused pop sound. They quickly became one of the UK’s biggest boy bands, scoring three consecutive UK number one albums and a string of hits. Their most popular singles include “Too Close,” “If You Came Back,” “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word,” “One Love”, and “All Rise.” The Dubai performance forms part of their Middle East tour.
Where: Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre, Expo City Dubai
When: Sunday 25 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Monday 26 October
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 27 October
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
Wednesday 28 October
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
Thursday 29 October
Witness Titizé: A Venetian Dream
Venice becomes the inspiration for a theatrical fantasy from Compagnia Finzi Pasca. Titizé: A Venetian Dream combines acrobatics, physical theatre, clowning, aerial performance and live music, with 10 performers creating scenes inspired by masks, waterways, mirrors and hidden corners of the Italian city. More than 100,000 people have already seen the production internationally. Rather than following a conventional narrative, it uses movement, illusion and visual storytelling to blur the boundaries between circus, dance and contemporary theatre.
Where: Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
When: Thursday, 29 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Friday 30 October
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
Saturday 31 October
Celebrate Halloween
Give Halloween an Abu Dhabi twist with an evening of costumes, treats and spooky fun. Start with pumpkin decorating or trick or treating, before gathering friends for a costume party, complete with themed snacks. Prefer a quieter celebration? Dim the lights, queue up a horror film and settle in with popcorn. Whether you favour family fun or fright night, make Saturday, 31 October marvellously memorable.
Where: Various locations across Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.factmagazines.com