Dubai is ready to dazzle its residents and visitors with a weekend filled with diverse and exciting events. Here’s your guide to making the most of this vibrant city from January 5-7, 2024.
Exciting Outdoor Market Experience
Kickstart your weekend at the Etisalat Market Outside The Box (MOTB) in Dubai Design District (D3). This beloved part of the annual Dubai Shopping Festival is back for its 11th edition, promising a mix of shopping, food, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Key highlights include food trucks, a Fenty Beauty drive-in, live entertainment, and rap Olympics. The best part? It’s free to enter and runs from January 5 to January 14.
Leisure and Fun at Brass Monkey
Gather your friends and head over to Brass Monkey’s new venue at C2 in City Walk. This adult-only playground, known for its fun atmosphere, now offers a two-storey entertainment hub with bowling, arcade games, pool tables, and two outdoor terraces. It’s a perfect spot for those looking for an enjoyable evening out.

Spectacular Drone and Firework Displays
Don’t miss the stunning drone light show, part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, lighting up the skies at JBR. This spectacular show, running until January 14, features two new displays each evening at 8 pm and 10 pm. Additionally, a month-long fireworks display at JBR and Bluewaters at 9 pm daily adds to the festive atmosphere.
Adventure at Hatta
For the adventure enthusiasts, Hatta offers a myriad of activities including mountain biking, waterslides, a honey bee farm, and a swan lake. You can reach Hatta from Dubai Mall via the Hatta Express Bus for just Dhs25, with an additional Hop On and Off bus service for easy transportation around Hatta’s attractions.
Gastronomic Delight at Beefbar
Beefbar presents its new Bossanova Brunch every Saturday. Indulge in a three-course meal featuring international dishes, live entertainment, and a DJ. Signature dishes include dynamite shrimp, Rock Corn, iconic pizza, hamachi crudo, and black cod. The brunch packages range from Dhs350 to Dhs750.
Nature’s Retreat at Emirates Bio Farm
Escape the city buzz and immerse yourself in nature at Emirates Bio Farm. Activities include tractor rides, walking through sunflower fields, interacting with farm animals, and enjoying a farm-to-table breakfast. The farm is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and tickets are priced at Dhs40.
Luxurious Stay at Anantara Mina Al Arab
Experience luxury at Ras Al Khaimah’s Anantara Mina Al Arab, which has recently opened its doors. The resort offers a range of accommodations, including Maldives-style overwater villas. Room rates start from Dhs995, promising an unforgettable staycation experience.
Comedy with Omid Djalili
Laugh out loud with British-Iranian comedian Omid Djalili at the Dubai World Trade Centre. For one day only, Djalili will bring his unique humor to the stage, offering a perfect end to the weekend.
Orthodox Christmas Celebration
Celebrate Orthodox Christmas at 21Grams, a homegrown Balkan bistro. Enjoy a special five-course set menu with festive dishes, live soul music, and traditional festivities from 11 am.
Join the Dubai Marathon
Participate in the Dubai Marathon, the Middle East’s first and oldest international marathon. The marathon, offering a 4km fun run, a 10km road race, and a 42.195 km marathon, returns to its historical route. Registration is open until January 6.

Pilates on the Beach
Start your Sunday with a pilates class on the beach at Peaches and Cream. Located on the Palm, this session is ideal for those looking to combine fitness and relaxation, priced at Dhs150.