40 things to do this May in Dubai

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The weather outside is as hot as this month’s calendar of events. There’s absolutely loads of things to do in May in Dubai.

Whether you want to see a gigs, laugh out loud, relax in the sun or eat some great food, we’re here for you.

For the very best things to do in Dubai in May, read on.

  • Dubai events May 2024
  • May activities in Dubai
  • Dubai spring events
  • Outdoor experiences Dubai
  • Cultural festivals Dubai
  • Food and drink events
  • Live music performances
  • Family-friendly outings
  • Art exhibitions Dubai
  • Wellness workshops

 

Get ready for the exhilarating return of Topgolf Dubai Leagues, where the fun never stops! Grab your team of four to six players and gear up for a four week tournament filled with excitement and big wins. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a friendly match or a seasoned pro craving fierce competition against other enthusiastic teams, you’ll compete in thrilling battles across varying Topgolf game modes.
From Dhs1,200 per team. Every Tuesday in May, 7pm-9.15pm. (04 371 9999)

May 8

Try the new menu at Josette

Credit: Josette

Known for its refined French cuisine, Josette celebrates its second year with the introduction of a new menu created by new chef Rory Duncan, who joins chef Burcu Cracknell. Together, the team has created a new menu that combines traditional French cooking with global influences. New dishes on the menu include crevettes grilles, rotisserie butternut squash risotto, 24-hour slow-cooked duck confit, grilled octopus salad served with cauliflower textures, lamb cutlets served with aubergine and cevennes onion compote, and seabream carpaccio with light citrus dressing. The menu will also include some of Josette’s signatures with a slightly new take.

Daily from 9am-3am. ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC (04 275 2522).

May 9

Get to the cinema to watch The Fall Guy

(Credit: supplied)

Released on May 2, make sure to grab the popcorn and get comfortable to watch the hilarious new action thriller. Starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, the film follows a stuntman who has to track down a missing movie star while trying to win back the love of his life.

Sure to get you laughing whilst offering an edge-of-the-seat action experience, the movie will be showing in Dubai cinemas from Thursday.

Various timings and locations, Thurs May 2.

May 10

Have a 12-course bubbly dinner at 99 Sushi

Credit: supplied

If you want to go all out this week, make sure you secure your spot at 99 Sushi Restaurant & Bar. The venue has paired up with an iconic bubbly brand to serve up a 12-course pairing menu.

Taking diners through dishes from 99 Black Cod to oysters and sea urchin tempura, the experience will end with the restaurant’s stunning Japanese soufflé with hazelnut ice cream.

With only 10 tickets available, the exclusive experience is priced at AED2,200 per guest.

Dhs2,200, Fri May 10, 9pm, 99 Sushi Restaurant & Bar, The Address Downtown, Downtown Dubai, 99sushibar.com (04 547 2241).

Swap the cinema for a Cinema Medley

If you, like us, find yourself humming the soundtrack of a movie long after it’s over, you are going to love this night. Come May 10, 80 musicians shall bring scores of scores, there’ll be everything from Harry Potter to Interstellar on the cards. The musical agenda includes tracks from Batman, Gladiator and even The Phantom of the Opera.

From Dhs199. Fri May 10, 8pm onwards. Coca-Cola Arena, Al Wasl (800 22 33 88).

May 11

Dance your heart out at BCH:CLB

Credit: BCH:CLB

During the day, BCH:CLB is a bouncing spot for sunbathing, or a pool party if you fancy it.

However, the venue is now launching something a little different this Saturday.

Step into the electrifying atmosphere at BCH:CLB as ABODE brings an unforgettable experience where pulsating beats and infectious rhythms collide, as renowned DJs such as Darius Syrossian, Seb Zito, GW Harrison, Evie, Carlo The Lo and Hartley are set to take centre stage. From dusk till dawn, immerse yourself in a fusion of house and techno music.

From Dhs150, free entry (for ladies). Sat May 11 BCH:CLB, W Dubai – The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, bchclb.com (04 834 3803).

Visit the e& Beach Canteen

Credit: e& Beach Canteen 2023

This is the last week of the fun food pop-up, so make sure you don’t miss your chance to go.

Open from 4pm, the venue is right on the beach, serving up everything from burgers to quesadillas, as well as some sweet treats for dessert.

While you’re there, check out the events and classes on offer, as the canteen is running a selection of workouts, live music and other activities to keep you entertained.

Free entry. Thu Apr 25-Sun May 12, 4pm-midnight. Jumeirah Beach, Behind Sunset Mall beachcanteen.ae.

Travel to a galaxy far away at Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert

Credit: supplied

This is a whole new way to experience a movie. The Armenian State Symphony under the baton of conductor Anthony Gabriele will play the score live as you watch Disney’s Star Wars: A New Hope on the big screen. A concert truly out of this world, see the struggle for freedom unfold as the Rebel Alliance battles the sinister Galactic Empire.

From Dhs275. Sat May 11, 2pm and 8pm. Dubai Opera. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai. @‌dubaiopera (04 440 8888).

Give your wardrobe a refresh at Cloudset

Credit: Cloudset

Dubai-based app-operated rental platform Cloudset is going offline for the first time. Opening up its first pop-up location in collaboration with beauty salon FaceRoom, in Dubai Marina. Customers are able to have an in person consultation to rent an incredible range of designer pieces and take some home for good. Choose items such as a Chloe Tess bag, yours for Dhs372 for four days, or a pair of Jimmy Choos, yours to keep for Dhs600.

Cloudset X FaceRoom. Open daily, 9am-9pm, Gate 2 Marina Promenade, Dubai Marina thecloudset.com (052 829 0457).

Book in for brunch at La Cantine

Credit: La Cantine du Faubourg

This has been one of the best à la carte brunches for many years, with diners coming back time and again to enjoy the all-encompassing brunch offering. Available on both Saturdays and Sundays, with a buzzing after party on Saturday, and one of the best value house beverage packages for a premium branch at Dhs510 per person, It really is the brunch to go to in 2024.  In winter sit in the cute terrace, while in summer enjoy the lively vibe inside.

The brunch really shows off a range of the restaurant’s signature dishes and expert cooking, while there’s an upbeat atmosphere to go alongside it. Start with eggs and croissants, move on to salads, grills and more and finish with French treats. Delightful.

Licensed. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, lacantine.ae (04 352 7105).

See Jamie Jones at HIVE Soho Garden Meydan

(Credit:Supplied)

Mark your calendars for Saturday May 11 as Jamie Jones makes his grand debut at this prestigious HIVE Soho Garden Meydan.
The Welsh DJ and producer is the founder and curator of the Paradise global event series and is best known for his distinct warm, melodic, techno sound.

If you want to start the weekend off dancing, make sure you get your ticket quickly.

From Dhs150. Sat May 11 9pm onwards. HIVE, Soho Garden Meydan (052 388 8849).

May 12

Get free sushi at Kokoro

Credit: Instagram @kokoro.dxb

Causing a stir since first opening this year, Kokoro has been keeping Dubai well-fed with their hand roll sushi. During May, it will be treating diners to a chance to win a free chef’s surprise hand roll –  but there’s a small catch. If you want to be in with the chance, you must bring a rubber duck with you.

Any guest that does so will receive a free hand roll specially made by co-founder and chef, Daniel Lee, otherwise known as ‘Ducky’.

The new concept in Alserkal Avenue is definitely worth a visit, just remember to take a quacker of a bird along with you.

Valid until May 31. Sun,Mon,Wed noon-10pm, Thurs-Sat noon-11.30pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, alserkal.online

May 13

Watch Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

Credit: supplied

The latest instalment in the iconic film series, the story will see the Spengler family combine forces with the original Ghostbusters to combat a dark force in New York City.

With the world facing the onset of an ice age, the movie will have you on the edge of your seat, with a few good laughs in-between. Premiering last week, the film is now available in all cinemas across Dubai.

Various locations.

May 14

Try the new business lunch at JUYI

Credit: Instagram @juyidubai

The new business lunch experience has just launched at the Business Bay restaurant, and we recommend you make time in May to go give it a try.

Offering up suhsi rolls, saikyo miso maki black cod, striploin steak and crunchy shrimp, dessert also includes a Nutella cheesecake and blueberry mousse.

From Dhs118. Daily noon-4pm. Paramount Hotel, Business Bay, juyidubai.com (04 267 7888).

May 16

Enjoy a Thursday night at Agatha

Credit: Agatha

The new French Pan-Asian restaurant is the hottest place to be on a Thursday evening, as it introduces live music in the form of smooth jazz.

Taste some of the fusion dishes on the menu, and unwind to the melodies coming from house performer Aimee Sophia. Located in Al Habtoor City, the venue is kitted out with some plush décor, giving it a Parisian feel.

Every Thu, 7pm-2am. Al Habtoor City Boulevard, agathadxb.com (04 883 2118).

May 18

Take part in a wedding (brunch)

Dubai wedding brunch

The Midtown Wedding at Paramount Hotel Midtown is offering up a theatrical wedding day brunch experience to shake up your Saturday.

If one of your guilty pleasures involves watching a romantic comedy while chowing down on good food, then this Hollywood dining experience is one you wouldn’t want to miss. At the wedding, you’ll get to enjoy an Italian menu and a selection of premium beverages (for the wedding toast, obviously).

Dhs299 (soft drinks), Dhs399 (house beverages), Dhs550 (sparkling), Dhs650 (bubbly). Sat Apr 27, Sat May 4, Sat May 18, Sat Jun 1, Sat Jun 15 from noon-4pm. Paparazzi Tuscan Restaurant, Paramount Hotel Midtown paramounthotelsdubai.com/midtown.

May 19

Upgrade your dinner reservation at City Social

Credit: City Social

City Social, chef Jason Atherton’s latest launch in Dubai, is now open on Sundays and serves up a special (and very generous) three-course lunch and dinner. The Sundays at City menu is priced at Dhs295 and features dishes like the famous tomato burrata as well as Marie Rose prawns served over nutmeg butter on brioche bread.

Dhs295 (À la carte set menu). Sun 12.30pm-3.30pm and 7pm-10pm. Grosvenor House Dubai, Dubai Marina (04 402 2222).

May 21

Go to see the UNZIPME art showcase

Credit: Foundry “unzipme”

Taking place at The Foundry, artist Paolo Troilo will be unveiling his latest works. The ‘hyper-realist’ paintings were made entirely using Troilo’s fingers, meant to symbolise nature and innovation.

Having showed his work in locations such as New York, Rome and London, the exhibition is set to get you thinking.

Until May 24, 10am-10pm, The Foundry, Boulevard Crescent, Downtown Dubai, foundry.downtowndubai.ae (04 367 3696).

May 22

Sit down for yoga at DRIFT Beach x Shimis yoga Session

Credit: DRIFT Beach

DRIFT Beach Dubai announces its new weekly Wellness mornings in collaboration with Shimis. As one of the most established yoga studios in Dubai, Shimis is set to offer an authentic experience that rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul. Every Monday, guests can relax in luxury at DRIFT nestled within the prestigious One&Only Royal Mirage hotel and set against the Marina skyline. If you want to stick around after the class, guests will receive 50 percent off on sun loungers if you order breakfast – what a way to start the day.

Dhs120 per class. Every Monday in May, 8.30am-9.30am, One&Only Royal Mirage (04 315 2200)

May 23

Hit the dancefloor at SUSHISAMBA

Credit: SUSHISAMBA

Get yourself up to the 51st floor of the St Regis Palm Jumeirah on a Thursday night to experience SUSHISAMBA by night.

When the clock strikes 10.30pm, the CASA DE SAMBA begins, treating guests to a disco-themed dance party taking you back to the good old days.

Partnered with incredible views, make sure not to miss out.

Every Thurs, 10.30pm-3am, SUSHISAMBA, St Regis, Palm Jumeirah, sushisamba.com, (04 278 4888)

Have a theatrical dinner experience

Credit: Flashback Speakeasy Bar & Lounge

You’re going to feel like you’ve stepped into a real black and white movie with this one.

The Femme Fatale show is set to provide a four-course tasting menu as well as theatrical performances that will have you completely caught up in the story.

As each course unfolds, the narrative continues, and guests are encouraged to come in their finest film noir attire.

Dhs299 (soft), Dhs399 (house), Dhs550 (bubbly). Every Thurs, 8pm-11pm. Flashback Speakeasy Bar & Lounge, Paramount Hotel, Business Bay, paramounthotelsdubai.com (04 246 6641)

Take a road trip to Musandam from Dubai

Credit: supplied

Clocking in at around 3 hours long (border crossing time factored in), the journey from Dubai to Musandam is just far enough to feel like an adventure, without being off puttingly lengthy – perfect for a weekend adventure with the kids, you could say.

Once you arrive in Musandam, prepare to be enthralled by the utterly diverse, entirely picturesque scenery (craggy Hajar mountains to one side, twinkling turquoise sea on the other).

May 26

Book in a date night at Attiko

Credit: Attiko

One of the coolest places to grab a drink in the city. You can take in the Palm, Dubai Harbour, Dubai Marina, JBR and Ain Dubai as the sun sets and the lights flicker on. It’s got swift, friendly service and Asian-inspired bar food. Throughout the night live musicians roam among the tables while DJs provide the beats, keeping the vibe lively. With a superb view, cooler-than-cool vibes and delicious bar bites, make this your next night out.

Sun-Fri 5pm-2am, Sat 2pm-5pm and 7pm-2am. W Dubai, Mina Seyahi, Al Sufouh. theattiko.com. (04 350 9983).

Lose yourself at the Rome Opera Ballet

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Ballet company Rome Opera Ballet will bring to life their version of Les Deux Nuits to the city. From elegant lifts to flawless pirouettes, be prepared to be mesmerized by the dancers’ skills.

Dhs335. Sat May 25, 8pm and Sun May 26, 7.30pm. Dubai Opera. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai. @‌dubaiopera (04 440 8888).

May 25

Lounge by the pool in Emirates Hills

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Launching its new pool day pass from May 1, Vida Emirates Hills will allow guests to spend the afternoon lounging at Origins.

Soak up the rays whilst soaking up the views over the infinity pool as you choose from a selection of beverages and small dishes.

Dhs140 per person (weekdays), Dhs200 per person (weekends), daily 9am-6pm. Origins, Vida Emirates Hills, vidahotels.com (04 872 8888).

Sample a Japanese and Peruvian brunch

Credit: CLAY Dubai

The newly revamped brunch on Bluewaters, CLAY Dubai is offering a menu that mixes both Japanese and Peruvian dishes.

Nibble on the likes of sea bream ceviche and nigiri while you enjoy the live DJ, entertainment and free-flowing drinks package. Running from 2-5.30pm, the after-party will also let you keep on dancing into the evening.

From Dhs350 (brunch). Every Sat, 2-5.30pm. CLAY Dubai, Bluewaters Island, claydubai.com (04 422 5600).

May 26

Get an up close look at incredible ornaments

Credit: L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts

L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts is celebrating its first Middle East campus with an exhibition all about Gold & Treasures, 3000 Years of Chinese Ornaments.

Running until August 10, visitors can have a look at the intricate pieces, as well as sign up for one of the school’s courses and workshops.

Setting up home in the Dubai Design District (D3), there are classes for adults and little ones, but numbers are limited so make sure to secure a spot.

Free, until Aug 10, Tues-Sat 10am-7pm, L’École School of Jewelry Arts, Building 3, Design Quarter, Dubai Design District (d3), lecolevancleefarpels.com (04 451 3200).

Wind down with a Sunday roast

(Credit: Instagram @maisonmathisvocopalm)

Desperate to end the week with a good old roast dinner? Try the latest offer from Maison Mathis at voco Dubai Palm.

The restaurant has a gorgeous outdoor terrace – worth making the most of before it gets too hot.

As well as a selection of slow-roasted meats, you’ll be treated to all the trimmings, and can make the most of different drinks packages.

Dhs129 (one soft drink), Dhs149, house grape and hops (one beverage), Dhs229 (unlimited house grape, 2 hours hops and house serves), every Sun, 1-9pm. Maison Mathis, voco Dubai the Palm, maisonmathisvocopalm.com (04 249 5502). 

May 29

Enjoy some me-time at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

Credit: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa

You could have instantly glow-y skin with the 4D Zelens Facial Treatments available at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa. The therapists follow a step-by-step program that is tailored to each skin type. By combining Zelens URF technology with expertly formulated skincare products, this treatment promotes skin renewal and repair. And ta-da…skin that suddenly looks so much better.

From Dhs800 (90-minutes). Pearl Jumeirah. (04 376 6000).

Try out a new evening pool brunch experience at Azure

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Azure Beach at Rixos Premium Dubai JBR, is launching its evening pool brunch every Sunday. The evening pool brunch features three hours of free-flowing drinks and a food platter for Dhs300 per person. Dishes include salt and pepper squid, Spanish croquettes, chicken satay and plenty more, all served alongside an unlimited house selection of hops, grape and more. The venue’s resident DJ will keep the tempo high throughout the night.

Dhs300 (house beverages), Wed and Sun from 8pm-11pm. Rixos Premium Dubai JBR (052 777 9472).

Enjoy ladies day at the Grazer

Credit: Instagram @thegrazer.downtown

If you’re looking for a midweek celebration or a spot for an after-work catch up, try the new ladies day at The Grazer this week.

Giving a fun and relaxed atmosphere, you can nibble away on a selection of dishes (make sure you try one of the salads), with an impressive 50 per cent off the bill for ladies every Wednesday.

Every Wed, 8am-11.30pm. The Grazer, Al Ohood Street, Downtown Dubai (04 518 7777).

May 30

Sip on a PIMS Tea at Dubai Mall

(Credit:Supplied)

The artisanal tea brand has now set up shop at Dubai Mall, offering a range of different flavours. You can experience some ancient Chinese culture, while the tea is brewed in front of you following traditional customs. Or, if you can’t stop for long, pick up some loose leaf in store, along with a brewing flask, and take it home to enjoy.

Mon-Fri, 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun, 10am-1am, Dubai Mall, Pimstea.com (052 392 6659).

Say hello to Chris Hemsworth at Madame Tussauds Dubai

Credit: supplied

It might not be the real thing, but it’s as close as most of us are going to get. The global celebrity’s wax figure is now at Madame Tussauds Dubai on Bluewaters for the summer months before he goes back to his usual home in Vienna.

You can take a selfie with the actor and a selection of other A-listers, from Dwayne Johnson to Justin Timberlake, hile you tour round the experience.

From Dhs150 (adult), children under 11 free with each paying adult (May 1- Aug 31). Sun-Thurs noon-8pm. Bluewaters Island, Dubai Marina, madametussauds.com (04 873 3042).