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. Whether you want to go dancing, dining or drinking, there are lots of fun things to do in Dubai this October. From destination dining to concerts and family fun – we have something exciting for you every day this month.
Tuesday 1 October
Book a desert escape
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa has unveiled its new Desert Pool Villas, which offer an immersive escape in the heart of the desert. Inspired by the simplicity and elegance of Bedouin life, the villas feature a minimalist design, expansive indoor and outdoor living areas, private pools, sun loungers, outdoor fireplaces, and spacious dining areas. With large windows framing stunning desert vistas and private courtyards, the villas ensure a seamless connection to the natural landscape.
GO: Visit www.babalshams.com for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 2 October
Dare to DREAM
Immersive dinner show DREAM has unveiled its new “DREAMVerse” experience. Featuring advanced 3D mapping technology alongside futuristic costumes, the culinary offerings are just as avant-garde. Try the Gratinated Canadian Lobster, Seasonal Asparagus Risotto or the Strawberry-Basil Dream Cake, accompanied by an enchanting light display. You can also enjoy the innovative Quantum Illusion cocktail, a glowing creation that sparks curiosity with its luminous allure. Available Wednesday to Sunday from 8pm until late. Prices from AED 1,000 per person.
GO: Visit www.dreamdxb.com for reservations and more information.
Thursday 3 October
Dance the night away
Factory People has brought its free-spirited Reunion concept from the heart of industrial Beirut to a hip hangout on the side of the Dubai Canal. The new nightclub provides alternative and versatile programming, hosting artists, DJs, producers, live concerts, and workshops in an intimate setting. Local legend and friend of FACT, Wassim Bou Malham, will curate the venue’s musical lineup.
GO: Follow @inreuniondxb on Instagram for more information.
Friday 4 October
Party in the sky with Will.i.am
This October, you can dance above the clouds with Will.i.am at SLS Dubai Hotel and Residences. The show forms part of the hotel’s annual Taste of SLS celebrations, where you can drink, dine and dance your way around the sky-high property. Will.i.am is also known for his solo career, with hits such as I Got It From My Mama, Scream & Shout and #thatPOWER. AED 300 (soft beverages), AED 499 (house beverages), AED 699 (premium beverages) and AED 3,000 (all venues with a VIP table at Privilege Club, a one-night stay, and breakfast the morning after).
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Saturday 5 October
Enjoy a beachfront brunch
With views of pristine white sands and the serene sea, the Saturday Brunch at Café Nikki encourages barefoot luxury. Enjoy a rotating selection of grab-and-go dishes, an expansive buffet, and an assortment of sushi rolls and fish served sharing-style. After brunch, you can cool off with a complimentary pool and beach access pass. Adding to the atmosphere, resident DJs will spin upbeat tunes while the melodies of a live saxophonist create the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing afternoon. Available on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm. AED 350 (soft beverages), AED 500 (house beverages) and AED 700 (premium beverages).
GO: Call 04 376 6290 for reservations and more information.
Sunday 6 October
See Dame Joanna Lumley at Dubai Opera
Dubai, here’s some news that will make you smile. The British comedians Joanna Lumley and Paul Chowdhry are coming to the city. The pair are scheduled to take to the stage at Dubai Opera, beginning with Joanne Lumley’s “Me & My Travels” show, where she will share eclectic adventures from around the globe, including never-before-heard stories. The evening will also feature actor and comedian Paul Chowdhry. The most successful British Indian stand-up comedian in history is known for his stand-up special “Live Innit”, which became a global sensation on Amazon Prime, reaching audiences in over 200 countries.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Monday 7 October
Laugh out loud with Nigel Ng
Nigel Ng, known as Uncle Roger, will bring his Haiyya World Tour to Dubai. The comedian shot to fame in 2020 with Uncle Roger, a character he played in his videos. Uncle Roger was presented as a middle-aged Asian man who reviews cooking videos with a mix of humour and critique. He’s also critiqued dishes by famous chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver, and several others. Beyond videos, Nigel also hosts the popular podcast Rice To Meet You, which discusses Asian culture. Plus, with over 250 million views on YouTube, Nigel Ng is a comedic force to be reckoned with.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Tuesday 8 October
Swing into action
Five Iron Golf is now open at Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina. The mega entertainment venue contains 17 golf simulators, which are great for pros and beginners. The venue also boasts views of Dubai Marina and includes four bars, a beach-inspired bunker bar, and a nine-hole mini golf course. Plus, a VIP members-only lounge that includes table games, a sauna, and a gym.
GO: Visit https://fiveirongolf.com for more information.
Wednesday 9 October
See Andy Warhol’s Pop Art pieces
Andy Warhol’s work has been spotted everywhere, from the walls of New York galleries to cans of soup. Now, it is making its way to the Foundry in Dubai, as the exhibition Andy Warhol: The Glam Factory runs until 31 October. This is a rare chance to see some of Warhol’s most famous paintings and prints in Dubai. The exhibition, which is dedicated to the works of the King of Pop Art, will feature a selection of Warhol’s works from 1954 to 1987, including his iconic Marilyn Monroe portraits.
GO: Visit https://feverup.com for more information.
Thursday 10 October
Have lunch at Zuma
Whether visiting for dinner, drinks, brunch, or a business lunch, a trip to the FACT award-winning Zuma is always a pleasurable experience. Their popular business lunch, also known as the Ebisu menu, features one miso soup, a choice of two starters and one main course from a special menu of signature dishes. Don’t miss the Beef Tataki with Truffle Ponzu, Grilled Australian Wagyu Rib Eye with Truffle Sauce, or the Miso Marinated Black Cod Don Buri. Available Monday to Thursday, from 12pm to 2pm. AED 159 per person (miso soup, two starters and one main course) or AED 81 per person (miso soup and one main course).
GO: Call 04 425 5660 for reservations or more information.
Friday 11 October
Try the new menu at Row on 45
Row on 45, the newly crowned two-Michelin-starred restaurant from British Chef Jason Atherton, has launched a new menu crafted for just 22 discerning guests per seating. The 17-course haute cuisine menu features Amaebi (sweet shrimp served with Amela tomato jelly), Frøya Scallops and a delightful duck dish. Presented in three acts, this memorable meal begins in the Champagne Lounge and ends in the Chef’s Library of this penthouse-inspired restaurant. AED 1,145 per person.
GO: Visit www.rowon45dubai.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 12 October
Hit the sand at Soul Beach Dubai
Get ready for an unforgettable night as Soul Beach Dubai hosts the Dubai debut of Barry Can’t Swim, the stage name of Edinburgh-born, London-based producer Joshua Mannie. Known for his blend of jazz-influenced electronic music, Barry Can’t Swim is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting names in the electronic music scene. A classically trained multi-instrumentalist and talented DJ, Joshua is skilled in piano, guitar, bass, and drums, and has been making waves on the international circuit with his captivating performances. Available on 12 October, from 7pm to 3am.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 13 October
See Kasabian in concert
Kasabian last performed in the UAE 10 years ago, so this is a rare chance to see them in action. The band hails from Leicester, United Kingdom and formed in 1997. The members include Tom Meighan on lead vocals, and Tim Carter, Chris Edwards and Ian Matthews. After Meighan’s departure in 2020, guitarist and songwriter Serge Pizzorno took on the role of frontman, guiding the band through a remarkable comeback. The group’s hit songs include Club Foot, Fire, LSF, and Underdog. Over their career, they have scored seven number-one albums in the UK—only their first album did not reach the top spot. Kasabian are currently on tour and promoting their new album, Happenings.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Monday 14 October
Have lunch at Three Cuts
Located on the rooftop of Nakheel Mall, Three Cuts has been created by the father and son duo, Joe and Jason Bassili. And, as the name suggests, it specialises in three cuts of meat. If you struggle with long menus, you’ll be pleased to hear that Three Cuts keeps things simple yet sophisticated. The business lunch offer includes a choice of starter and main course from an array of tempting options like Beef Carpaccio, Caesar Salad, Mushroom Risotto, Organic Pan-Fried Salmon, Steak Frites and Wood-Charred Chicken Breast. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 4pm. AED 135 (two courses).
GO: Follow @threecutsdxb on Instagram for more information.
Tuesday 15 October
Try the new menu at Avatara
The world’s first and only vegetarian Indian restaurant to earn a MICHELIN Star has introduced its new RASAS menu curated by Chef Rahul Rana. Expect an immersive exploration of Indian culture through the six essential tastes—or “RASAS”—that have shaped Indian cuisine for centuries: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Each dish pays homage to these flavours, reimagined with a modern twist. To say any more would spoil the fun.
GO: Visit http://avatara.ae for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 16 October
Experience the world’s largest wave pool
Abu Dhabi is making waves. The world’s largest surf park, Surf Abu Dhabi, has opened in the capital and is breaking records for its artificial waves, and be home to an urban park and velodrome. Whether you’re starting or skilled, everyone is welcome to channel their inner Kelly Slater (aka the world’s greatest surfer). Home to the world’s most advanced artificial wave tailored for all skill levels, from beginners to elite surfers, Surf Abu Dhabi ensures an exclusive and inspiring surfing experience for all guests.
GO: Visit www.surfabudhabi.com for more information.
Thursday 17 October
Spend a night at La Camera! By TOTÓ
Inspired by the magic of Italian cinema, La Camera! By TOTÓ invites you to add a touch of Fellini-inspired flair to your next dining experience. This unique venue blends live jazz, soul, funk, and blues with exquisite Italian cuisine and world-class mixology. Dine on Gillardeau Oysters No.2, Stracciatella topped with caviar and spicy datterino jam or Tagliata di Wagyu with truffle and seasonal mushrooms while enjoying an evening of live entertainment.
GO: Follow @lacamerabytoto on Instagram for more information.
Friday 18 October
Experience HOLO at Expo City Dubai
Dubai, it’s time to turn up the volume. Superstar DJ Eric Prydz is bringing HOLO to Expo City Dubai. The experience combines music with state-of-the-art visual effects. The event has taken place around the world, and is taking place in Expo City Arena on 18 October. The event showcases innovative visual effects. HOLO combines 3D holographic projections, lasers, lighting and music to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Eric Prydz rose to fame with his hit single Call On Me, which was released in 2004 and peaked at number one on the UK Singles Chart. His singles also include Opus, Pjanoo and Proper Education.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 19 October
See rapper Tyga live in Dubai
Tyga was originally scheduled to perform a show at Zero Gravity early this year, but the performance was called off due to unprecedented rainfall in the city. Now, the rapper will perform live in Dubai at Coca-Coca Arena. The rapper, who was originally part of the Young Money collective alongside Drake, Lil’ Wayne and Nicki Minaj, rose to fame on the hit single Bedrock in 2009. In 2014, he dropped his debut album, Careless World: Rise of the Last King, featuring the Chris Brown-assisted single Loyal, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Tyga has continued to release albums, including Kyoto and Legendary, exploring trap, dancehall, and even Latin influences, proving his willingness to experiment and evolve. His recent hits include Ayy Macarena, Sheikh Talk and Vacation.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 20 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.
Monday 21 October
Sip on a golden cappuccino
Occupying a premium position opposite the Giorgio Armani boutique in Dubai Mall, the Armani/Caffè embodies Giorgio Armani’s signature style, 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: Call 04 362 7888 for more information.
Tuesday 22 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 memorable experience 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.
Wednesday 23 October
Relive noughties nostalgia
Backstreet’s back. One of the biggest-selling boybands of all time is returning to the capital. The American pop group Backstreet Boys will perform at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, 23 October. Nineties kids will be buzzing with excitement, as this is your chance to see Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean and Brian Littrell. Unfortunately, fan-favourite Kevin Richardson will be absent from the show due to scheduling conflicts. We’re expecting them to play their greatest hits, including We’ve Got It Goin’ On, Quit Playing Games (With My Heart), Everybody (Backstreet’s Back) and As Long As You Love Me.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for tickets and more information.
Thursday 24 October
Party with Armin Van Buuren in Ras Al Khaimah
Grab your glowsticks and prepare for an epic evening. Armin Van Buuren will kick off the Seven Wonders event series in Ras Al Khaimah with a never-before-seen show called Pillars of Creation. Taking place at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, Pillars of Creation reimagines Armin Van Buuren’s legendary work, presenting a captivating story of how music is born, transformed, and continues to evolve. The Dutch DJ is known for his hits Blah Blah Blah, Great Spirit, Leave A Little Love, Music Means Love Forever and This Is What It Feels Like.
GO: Visit sevenwonders.me for tickets and more information.
Friday 25 October
See Take That live in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, it’s time to Take That. The British band are heading to Etihad Park on Yas Island on Friday, 25 October 2024. The trio will perform their greatest hits in the capital, including Back For Good, Never Forget and Relight My Fair. Now, the three members — Gary, Howard and Mark — are bringing their This Life on Tour to Abu Dhabi.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 26 October
Dance the night away with Calvin Harris
Calvin Harris will headline at the opening of Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience. For those unversed with Calvin Harris’ repertoire, he’s got over 56 billion streams, ranking amongst the biggest streaming artists in the world, and is one of the most viewed artists on YouTube. Throughout his career, he’s won two of 14 MTV VMA nominations and garnered five Grammy nominations. In 2013, he received a Grammy Award for Best Music Video for his hit song We Found Love, a collaboration with Rihanna. His career also features collaborations with international superstars like Frank Ocean, Pharrell Williams, The Weeknd and Travis Scott.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 27 October
Join Matt Rife’s ProbleMATTic World Tour
Matt Rife is bringing his ProbleMATTic World Tour to the capital, guaranteeing an evening of laughter and surprises on 27 October. From clever wordplay to hilarious interactions with the audience, no topic is off-limits for this comedic genius. Am American comic and actor who hails from a small town near Columbus, Ohio, Rife’s journey to comedy stardom is as relatable as it is inspiring. His self-produced comedy specials, including Only Fans and Matthew Steven Rife, have garnered millions of views on YouTube, while his Netflix special, Matt Rife: Natural Selection, has received critical acclaim and topped charts around the world.
GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for more information.
Monday 28 October
Get ready to giggle with JR De Guzman
For those unfamiliar with JR De Guzman, he is a Filipino-American comedian who explores themes of cultural identity, relationships and life in general. JR De Guzman began his career as a music teacher but then ventured into performing sets. He shot to fame with his Netflix special The Comedy Lineup, after which he landed gigs such as Comedy Central’s Kevin Hart Presents Hart of the City. He also won the Stand-up NBC in 2016 and was featured in Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch in 2022. With his guitar in hand, JR De Guzman will transition between jokes and songs, creating a performance that’s guaranteed to be entertaining.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Tuesday 29 October
Visit Dubai’s newest beach club
Dance music fans, we have some major news. Ibiza’s O Beach will be sweeping up onto the shores of Dubai Marina this October. The new beach club will bring the sounds of Ibiza to Dubai. Spanning 55,000 square feet, the venue will include outdoor and indoor spaces. It will also include cabanas, VIP areas, beds, and a 4,000-square-foot swimming pool. Plus, you can also enjoy an elevated restaurant with panoramic city and beach views and a Mediterranean-inspired menu with an Asian twist.
GO: Visit www.obeachdubai.com for more information.
Wednesday 30 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 315 per person.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for reservations and more information.
Thursday 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.
