
Things To Do in Dubai This Week 10th Oct – 17th Oct
Dubai’s weekend calendar is as packed as ever. Whether you’re planning a quick bite, a day out, or something spontaneous, here’s what to add to your plans.

Dubai’s weekend calendar is as packed as ever. Whether you’re planning a quick bite, a day out, or something spontaneous, here’s what to add to your plans.

Abu Dhabi’s social scene is shaping up nicely and we’re loving it. With beachside brunches, live music and plenty of ways to unwind. Here’s what to add to your plans.

Louvre Abu Dhabi has opened a blockbuster show, Mamluks: Legacy of an Empire, that's already turning heads. Running until 25th January 2026, it’s the GCC’s first major exhibition dedicated to the Mamluk Sultanate, the dynasty that ruled for more than 250 years and left behind a legacy of power, artistry and intrigue.

Looking for plans this week? From new brunches, afterparties and hands-on workshops, this list is packed with ways to fill your calendar. Here’s where to eat, drink and explore over the coming few days.

I recently visited Strawfire, the restaurant by Chef Ross Shonhan, which opened in 2024 at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi.
Strawfire takes its name and philosophy from warayaki, a style of Japanese cooking over straw flames. Chef Ross first came across the method during his travels to Shikoku Island in southern Japan, where rice straw is used to infuse a distinctive campfire flavour. Traditionally reserved for a few regional dishes, Strawfire takes the technique further, using it to bring out character in a wider range of ingredients.

Konjiki Hototogisu, the Michelin-starred ramen house from Tokyo, has opened its second branch in the UAE at the Palm Jumeirah Mall (formerly Nakheel Mall). The Mall of the Emirates outlet already holds a Bib Gourmand, along with garnering rave reviews. I wanted to see how the new location would measure up. (Spoiler: it absolutely did).

Final stretch, UAE! As September winds down, the Emirates are buzzing with things to do. Whether you're a serious foodie, a parent looking for a fun activity, or just someone who loves a great night out, there's something to cap off the month.

I had the chance to attend the opening of The Chef’s Brunch 2.0 at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal and if there’s ever been a definition of being spoilt for choice, this is it. With 39 different stations, including 18 new concepts, it’s not the kind of brunch you can breeze through in an hour. My best advice? Arrive on time and stay until the end, it’s the only way to pace yourself and properly enjoy everything on offer.

Summer may be coming to an end (can we get a collective hallelujah), but the UAE’s buzzing social scene is showing no signs of slowing down. We bring you this week’s pick of the best things to do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, from indulgent breakfasts to elegant dinners and everything in between.

Dubai is never short on experiences and this week is no exception. From exciting new restaurant openings to staycation offers and creative foodie concepts, here’s our pick of the best things to do in Dubai.