Brilliant ways to make the most of your extra time off
We’ve been looking forward to it for much of the year, and now the UAE National Day long weekend is finally here.
Whether you are looking for laughs, adrenaline-fueled fun, the best new bites in the city, or simply looking to relax and unwind, we have you covered.
Here are the best things to do in Dubai over the long weekend.
For more fun things to do in Dubai this week, click here.
Looking to dine out? Head here for all the best restaurants in Dubai.
For top bars to check out, click here.
If keeping active is more up your street, have a gander here for everything sport and wellbeing-related across Dubai.
Bite into supreme plates at Sushi Samba
Let the good times roll at Sushi Samba, an exciting new addition to Dubai’s culinary scene. One of London’s much-coveted sushi hotspots recently landed in the city, and is known for its impressive fusion of Japanese and Brazilian cuisines. What’s more, the uninterrupted 360-degree panoramic views of the Palm and beyond are guaran-teed to ‘maki’ this long weekend one to remember.
Sushi Samba, Level 51, The Palm Tower, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Sushisam-ba.com/locations/dubai (04 582 1555).
Bite into tasty baklava at Turkish Village
Good food is always a fitting way to mark a special occasion and National Day is no exception. If you’re a fan of baklava, you’ll be pleased to learn that the Turkish Village will be offering 50 percent off all platters for National Day. From carrot slice baklava to walnut or pistachio baklava, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to flavours. What’s more, the platters are sure to go down a storm with friends and loved ones during the long weekend’s festivities.
Discount available on Dec 2 only. Dubai Festival City, Dubai. Turkishvillagedubai.com (04 344 9955).
Catch Joseph Capriati at Palmarama
Joseph Capriati is the latest big name to be spinning the decks at WHITE Beach’s absolutely brilliant slice of Ibiza Palmarama party. He’s pulling up with slick techno beats in hand, so don’t miss out.
Minimum spend per table. Dhs2,000 (reservations only). Fri Dec 3. WHITE Beach Dubai, Atlantis The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah (054 5822 778).
Celebrate Emirati Culture At Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts
Mark the UAE’s Golden Jubilee in grand style with a host of spectacular experiences at Polynesian-inspired hotel, Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts. All guests will be invited to join a wonderful National Day cake cutting ceremony taking place at breakfast. There will also be complementary Emirati treats served in the lobby in the afternoon and a special Emirati band performance at its all-day dining restaurant, Kalea.
Thu Dec 2. Dubai Parks & Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Rd,Dubai, Marriott.com/hotels/travel/dxbak-lapita-dubai-parks-and-resorts-autograph-collection/ (04 449 0868).
Check into the Address Beach Resort Fujairah
Need a change of scene? Long weekends are always a good time to maximise your staycation time. For a blend of natural beauty and comfort, the recently-opened Ad-dress Beach Resort Fujairah is just the ticket. Beautifully positioned between majestic mountains and glistening ocean, it’s the ideal bolthole for a hiatus from city life.
Prices vary. Address Beach Resort Fujairah, Al Aqah, Fujairah ad-dresshotels.com/en/resorts/address-beach-resort-fujairah (09 204 7777).
Enjoy dusks in the desert in Ras Al Khaimah
If atmospheric desert vibes are what you are looking for this long weekend then the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is the place for you. You will feel at one with nature at the height of luxury in the well-equipped tented villas that boast private pools. The two-day National Day package includes lavish breakfast spreads along with a live Arabian barbecue experience at Kaheela Terrace.
Dhs4,500 for a two-night stay for two. Dec 1-3. Al Mazraa, Wadi Khadija, Ras Al Khaimah, ritzcarlton.com (072067777).
Enjoy cultural beats at Burj Park
Want to turn up the volume this long weekend and celebrate in a befitting way? There will be a series of Emirati and Arabic concerts in Burj Park showcasing singing sensations from the UAE and the Middle East so you can immerse yourself in local culture. From 8pm-midnight on Thursday December 2, Emirati music master Hussain Al Jasmi, Lebanese starlet Diana Haddad and Saudi Arabian singer Dalia Mubarak will take to the stage to perform their hits. On Friday December 3, Eidha Menhali, the first Emirati woman to make it to the final of ‘Arabs Got Talent’, will take to the stage for an epic set.
Dhs75-350 for tickets. Dec 2-3, 8pm onwards. Visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/uae-national-day. Burj Khalifa Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, (0600 55 55 59).
Enjoy fun for all of the family at IMG Worlds
To mark the UAE’s 50th Golden Jubilee celebration, massive indoor theme park IMG World’s of Adventure has planned spectacular performances and traditional activities to showcase the culture of the UAE. There will be Arab themed tents, such as traditional henna and falcon viewings along with face painting, all while enjoying the taste of Emirati food. There will also be colossal UAE flags, with live music, Arabic vocal performances, and magic shows throughout the day.
General admission Dhs335. Dec 1-4. E311 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd, City of Arabia, Dubai, IMGworlds.com (600 500 962).
Experience Late Nights at Expo 2020 Dubai
Whether you’ve had the chance to explore Expo 2020 yet or not, the Late Nights at Expo event is a mesmerising addition to your long weekend itinerary. Hosted at the captivating Millennium Amphitheatre, the immersive live music performance will bring together a series of international artists, both established and emerging.
Included with pass. Dec 3 10.30pm-1am. Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre, Expo 2020 Dubai, Expo Road, expo2020.com.
Explore your creativity at Zabeel House
Calling all art-lovers, your chance to let off some creative steam has arrived. Zabeel House, The Greens will be hosting an interactive workshop where creatives of all levels will get the chance to roll up their sleeves and make their own greeting cards to mark the UAE’s Golden Jubilee and pay tribute to the national celebration. As part of the Project Art event, there will be works by Swedish artist Madeleine Kurtsdotter on display to provide some inspiration. Her distinctive style utilises bold colours and natural materials. The curated pieces for her exhibition will shed light on Emirati culture and history in celebration of the UAE’s 50th National Day.
Dhs60. Dec 6, 7pm-9pm. The Onyx Tower 3, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Zabeelhouse.com (04 519 1111).
Find out what a golden burger tastes like
Why enjoy a regular burger when you can enjoy a gold one at SAUCE? In true Dubai style, this opulent gilded wagyu burger is a great way to celebrate the UAE 50th National Day. The 50’s themed American diner has launched exciting national day themed limited-edition dishes that pay homage to the country that has become a foodie destination. Also as part of the National Day festivities, SAUCE will be offering 50% off on all the National Day beverages with every meal and specially baked cupcakes in the national day flag colours which will be offered free to all customers.
Dhs159. Available Dec 1-5. Noora Tower, Al Habtoor City, Dubai, Saucedubai.ae (056 538 8388).
Fuel your need for speed at the Historic Dubai Grand Prix Revival
Rev up your engines for a day of thrills at the Dubai Autodrome. Witness F1 Grand Prix and Group C cars from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s whizz through the circuit at over 300 km/h. Be sure to check out the Exhibition Village for classic automobiles and quirky collector’s items.
From Dhs100. Dec 2-3. Dubai Autodrome.
Gaze into the night sky with Al Noor Island At Night
Add a dash of sparkle to your long weekend with a stargazing experience at Al Noor Island, Sharjah. The out-of-this-world cosmic views will transport you to another world through powerful telescopes. The luxury of a much-needed lay-in that you can enjoy guilt-free over the long weekend means that now is the time to stay up and savour this sparkling experience. Particularly good if you have little nippers in tow.
Dhs50. 11pm on weekdays, midnight on weekends. Subject to weather conditions. Al Noor Island, Buhairah Corniche Road, Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah. alnoorisland.ae/the-island/sky-watchers (06 506 7000).
Get involved in GCC Culinary Week at Kempinski
Now is your chance to experience all the flavours of the GCC combined with its signature hospitality. To mark the UAE’s Golden Jubilee, the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is inviting you on a gastronomical adventure at Olea this National Day weekend. There will be a particular emphasis on recipes unique to the UAE along with cuisine from neighbouring countries. Hungry yet?
Dhs325 per person. Dec 1-3, 7pm-11pm onwards. Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, kempinski.com/en/dubai (04 341 0000).
Get stuck into tasty seafood plates at Cherabinth
Love seafood? Love a deal? If it’s a yes to both then be sure to head to Cherabinth over the long weekend. Nestled within the green Al Barari neighbourhood Cherabinth will be offering half off your bill in celebration of the UAE’s 50th National Day weekend.
Dec 2-3. ABLGFBO5C, Lower Ground Floor Seventh, AI Barari, Dubai, Cherabinth.com (045464118).
Get stuck into the long weekend at Time Out Market
By the time the weekend kicks off, it’s a safe bet that you’ll have worked up quite an appetite. What better way to get stuck into the long weekend than with the ridiculously good plates at Time Out Market Dubai? With a festive twist incoming, there’s never been a better time to try the city’s hottest dining destination. There’s also live DJ sets on Thursday nights, so spin your way to Downtown, stat.
Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeoutmarket.com/dubai.
Get the Ritz Carlton experience in Ras Al Khaimah
If you are craving a bit of sun, sea and sand to get you through the long weekend then The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach is an excellent little bolthole. The well-equipped villas each have private access to the white sand beachfront, guaranteeing you sandy feet and a memorable stay. The two-night National Day package includes daily breakfast, one lunch and a three-course dinner at Shore House.
Dhs4,500 for a two-night stay for two. Dec 1-3. Vienna St, Al Hamra Village, Ras al Khaimah, ritzcarlton.com (07 204 8888).
Glide around the 5-star halls of Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab has opened its doors to guided tours where you can get an up-close-and-personal experience of the palatial, gold-leaf-laden interior of the world’s only seven-star hotel. The 90-minute butler-guided tour will take you through the icon-ic atrium, along with the famous Royal Suite, one of the world’s most expensive hotel rooms. Why not cross this must-do experience off your Dubai bucket list this long weekend?
From Dhs249. Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah, insideburjalarab.com.
Grab your skates for Dubai Ice Show: Avangard vs Ak Bars
Get your fix of extreme sport over the long weekend at the Kontinental Hockey League World Games. This adrenaline-fueled ice hockey tournament will see a face-off between Avangard (the most recent Gagarin Cup winner) and Ak Bars. The exhil-arating event promises an exciting combination of family fun, food and merch.
From Dhs150, Dec 3 4.15pm. Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, coca-cola-arena.com (800 223 388).
Have a right laugh with stand-up ace Amit Tandon
Up for a laugh? Why not get yourself down to Amit Tandon’s live comedy perfor-mance over the long weekend in Dubai, a stand-up set that is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. Also known as ‘the married guy’ his set makes jovial light of married life and ‘domestic bliss’. His relatable brand of comedy has seen him take the stage by storm in India and beyond and he will be bringing his gags to Dubai this long weekend.
From Dhs75. Shiekh Rashid Auditorium, Oud Metha (04 246 8829).
Indulge in National Day afternoon tea at Raffle
If a little rest and relaxation sounds like just the bill for the long weekend then head over to Raffles The Palm Dubai. An afternoon tea experience to embody the culture and traditions of the UAE awaits at Blüthner Hall. What’s more, Raffles The Palm Dubai’s Cinq Mondes Spa will be spicing up its offering over the long weekend. It will join the celebrations and introduce treatments to be purchased alongside the afternoon tea, inspired by local favourite karak chai.
Dhs220 per person (afternoon tea). Dhs650 per person (spa experience). Available until Dec 3, 2pm-5pm. West Cresent Palm, raffles.com/thepalm-dubai (04 248 8888).
Join the festivities as Emirates Golf Club lights up its Christmas tree
Get down to Emirates Golf Club to get into the Christmas swing at its annual tree lighting cer-emony in Dubai. The event will be hosted at the Clubhouse Lobby where a live choir perfor-mance featuring all of your favourite Christmas classics will guarantee to tee off the merri-ment. Expect a festive feast of mince pies and gingerbread biscuits, all washed down with warm mulled grape drinks. It’s going to be one cosy evening.
Free. Sat Dec 4, 7pm-8pm. Clubhouse Lobby, Al Naseem street Emirates Golf Club, Al Than-yah 3, Hadaeq Mohammed Bin Rashid, Dubai. Dubaigolf.com/emirates-golf-club.
Laze about with unreal views at Aura Skypool
Dubai is the home of superlatives so it only seems fitting that it be home to the world’s highest 360º infinity pool. The unparalleled views are as never-ending as the expansive infinity pool itself, where you can soak up the best of the long weekend. Plating up the best of Asia’s culinary delights, the menu comprises a poolside selec-tion of flatbreads, bowls and yakitori. That’s not to mention the tasty tipple selection to boot.
From Dhs170. Nakheel Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, auraskypool.com.
Listen to the UAE Golden Year Music Festival
Set to be one of Dubai’s musical highlights for 2021, the upcoming UAE Golden Year Music Festival at Dubai Festival City Arena is not to be missed. This epic concert will celebrate 50-years of UAE history, aptly bringing people together on UAE National Day to champion the rich tapestry of diversity across the Emirates. Don your dancing shoes and expect a playlist of the most catchy current and throwback tracks. Headlining the event will be Michael Learns to Rock and Boyce Avenue.
Dhs250. Dec 2 6pm. Festival City Arena, Dubai Festival City.
Make a move to Papa Dubai’s nine bars
On the lookout for a swish new bar? How about nine? That’s exactly how many strikingly fresh places to wet your beak are open at Papa Dubai, and it looks pretty incredible. Dubbed a village (and it’s hard to argue), the sensational new drinking and dining destination has open its doors at V Hotel Dubai in Al Habtoor City.
Open daily Mon-Sat 6pm-3am. V Hotel, Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road, www.papadubai.com (052 203 3434).
Make the most of Exclusive Offers at Park Hyatt
Fancy a little luxurious escapism this long weekend? Situated on the banks of the majestic Dubai Creek, Park Hyatt Dubai is the ideal destination. Guests can enjoy the perfect staycation and take advantage of a 25 per cent discount on all suites at the Park Hyatt Dubai, this National Day Holiday.
Available until Dec 22. Dubai Creek Resort, Dubai Creek Club St, Port Saeed, Dubai, Hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/united-arab-emirates/park-hyatt-dubai/dxbph (04 602 1234).
Prepare to rock out at 1MX Dubai
If you fancy a night on the tiles over the long weekend in Dubai, get yourself down to 1MX Dubai 2021. Set to rock Dubai, the concert will showcase a star-studded line-up of the hottest Filipino artists, including EZ Mil, Moira, BINI, GYO, Gigi De Lana and Bamboo.
From Dhs99, Dec 3 5.30pm-9pm, Trade Centre Arena, Trade Centre (800 842 5387).
Pop along to see Louna in Winterland
Changing seasons have melted Louna’s snowman best friend. Helpless in Winterland, Louna sets on an emotional journey to rebuild her friend and many heartwarming memories on the way. Watch the magical freezing adventure with the little ones as they titter and giggle to the performances of Mr Thunder, Mrs Cloud, and the Crazy Little Snowflakes. A proper Christmas show this December in Dubai.
From Dhs75. Dec 4 (11am). The Theatre, Mall of the Emirates. malloftheemirates.com (800 663 6255).
Rock up to an ice-cool yoga session at The View
Ensure you return to work feeling relaxed to the max with an ultra-zen yoga session at The View. The 60-minute sunrise vinyasa yoga experience, hosted by Core Direc-tion, is well worth lugging yourself out of bed early doors for. This calming experience is guaranteed to leave you feeling energised, revitalised and ready for the week ahead. Don’t forget to share a snap of yourself pulling the most impressive yoga posi-tion you can manage (handstand scorpion anyone?) with the sprawling views of the Palm in the backdrop.
From Dhs149, The View, Nakheel Mall, theviewpalm.ae/events/yoga-at-the-view.
Score a try at Dubai Rugby 7s
Kick-off the good times this long weekend at one of Dubai’s most beloved sporting spectacles. The epic event is back, bigger, better and bolder than ever in celebration of its 51st anniversary. Chart-topping duo Disclosure will be headlining the Frequency on 8 stage once the final whistle has blown, which is set to be an off-the-Richter evening of pure-party. You’re not going to want to miss it.
Dec 2-4. The Sevens Stadium, dubairugby7s.com (04 234 8885).
Settle into a seaside staycation at Grand Autograph Resort, Autograph Collection
If you are looking for something luxe for the long weekend then the UAE National Day offer at Habtoor Grand Autograph Resort, Autograph Collection is just the ticket. Free upgrades are on offer (subject to availability) and if you opt for a suite then you’ll receive gratis tickets to La Pearle for two adults and two kids. What’s more, you won’t need to deal with a lengthy car journey or fight. Bliss.
Prices vary. Available until Dec 11. l Falea St, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, Habtoorhospitality.com/project/habtoor-grand-resort-autograph-collection (04 399 5000).
Take a load off your mind with half off Laundryheap services
Celebrate the 50th UAE National Day without distraction with 50 percent off laundry services at Laundryheap. Allow Laundryheap to do all the legwork for you with its guarantee to get your smalls and sheets sorted, washed, folded and delivered within 24-hours.
Use code ‘NATDAY50’ code at checkout to redeem. Available until Dec 4. Collected from your location. laundryheap.com.
Take an incredible Hike through Hatta
Get the ‘Hollywood’ Hatta experience and exceed your daily step quota in the process with a good hike in a stunning setting. If you’ve yet to add a selfie with the Hatta Hol-lowood sign to your Insta-feed, this long weekend in Dubai is a good time to do it. You can enjoy a natural high whilst you explore the majestic Hajar Mountains, be it on bike or on foot. There is a varied selection of trails to suit a selection of experience levels and abilities. Leg day sorted.
Take a spin on the spectacular Ain Dubai observation wheel
If you are going round in circles trying to think of things to do this long weekend then look no further. For a wheely good time (sorry, not sorry) be sure to check out Ain Dubai. In true Dubai style, the colossal observation wheel is the world’s largest – nat-urally – and is serving up epic views from 250m up. The 38-minute experience will have you seeing Dubai as you’ve never seen it. What’s more, just think of the Insta-snaps.
From Dhs130. Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island, aindubai.com (800 246 392).
Watch the dunes glisten from a Hot Air Balloon
If you’re one for extraordinary life experiences, hop on a hot air balloon in the early hours to watch the sun come to life from 4,000ft up in the sky. Book a hot air balloon experience with Balloon Adventures Dubai to plan the experience of a lifetime. You can’t say you’ve seen the most beautiful sunrise until you watch it from a hot air bal-loon. Things to do in Dubai this November don’t get much more lofty than this.
Dhs1,250 (adults), Dhs1,100 (kids aged five-11). Pick up from 4am across Du-bai. ballooning.ae.
Wave hello to the long weekend at February 30 Beach Bar
Located on West Beach, February 30 boasts a palm-tree-laden beachfront with an Insta-worthy backdrop of the Dubai Marina skyline. You are spoilt for choice with three bars to choose from. A top pick for sipping on sundowners tis long weekend in Dubai.
February 30, West Beach Palm, Jumeirah, february30dubai.com.
Witness Anna Karenina at Dubai Opera
Looking for some refined entertainment for the long weekend in Dubai? Get your dose of culture and the arts at Dubai Opera. The critically acclaimed Anna Karenina ballet by Boris Eifman, based on the novel by Leo Tolstoy, promises a psychologically, emotionally and visually thrilling experience during its three-day residence.
From Dhs340, Dec 2-4 2pm and 8pm. Downtown Dubai. du-baiopera.com/events/anna-karenina (04 440 8888).
