As May kicks off, Dubai’s weekend scene is heating up with an incredible lineup of events. From open-air concerts to art exhibitions, cultural experiences and more, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your weekend. Here’s Connector’s guide to some of the top activities you should check out in the city.
Rock And Opera Live
When: 2 May
Where: Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Experience a spectacular fusion of elegance and edge as a unique musical project 'Rock and Opera' takes the stage at Zabeel Theatre on this Friday. Featuring celebrated stars of the Bolshoi Theatre alongside renowned rock virtuosos, this electrifying performance reimagines classic opera arias through the raw energy of rock. Expect soaring vocals, bold arrangements and a captivating blend of two powerful musical worlds. This show promises a night of unforgettable cross-genre brilliance. Tickets start from Dhs 300.
Art For All
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Al Gaffal Traditional Dhow Sailing Race
When: 2 May
Where: Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi
Set sail on a journey through the UAE’s maritime legacy at the Al Gaffal Traditional Dhow Sailing Race. This historic event celebrates the nation’s pearl-diving past and its connection to the sea, with cultural showcases at the Al Sinyar Maritime Heritage Museum and engaging activities like mirror-making, candle crafting, and rope weaving. Enjoy live music, traditional games, and a family-friendly atmosphere with giveaways, food trucks and luxury car displays. Free to attend.
DIMC
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Ibiza-Style Beach Party With DJ Sigala
When: 2 May
Where: Barasti Beach, Dubai Marina
Bask in golden hour energy as Cafe Mambo Ibiza teams up with Barasti Beach for a one-night-only beach bash headlined by British DJ and producer Sigala. Taking place on this Friday, this electrifying event brings the iconic sunset beats of Ibiza to Dubai’s vibrant shoreline with Balearic rhythms, sing-along anthems and non-stop party vibes from sundown to midnight. Soak up the Ibiza spirit, dance under the stars, and experience an unforgettable evening where music and beachfront magic collide. Tickets start from Dhs 75.
Barasti Beach
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Karate Combat 54
When: 2 May
Where: The Agenda, Dubai Media City
Get ready for a high-octane night of martial arts as Karate Combat 54 hits Dubai on Friday. Headlining the event, Light Heavyweight Champion Sam Alvey moves up a division to challenge Tyrone Spong for the coveted Heavyweight World Championship. The co-main event features Muhammad Mokaev’s much-anticipated debut against Bolat Zamanbekov, known for his explosive finish rate. Fans can also look forward to the other matches as the undercard is equally stacked, promising a night of fiery combats. Ticket prices start from Dhs 200.
The Agenda
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Angham Live
When: 2 May
Where: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai
Prepare for a night of heartfelt melodies as Egyptian pop icon Angham takes over Coca-Cola Arena for a live concert filled with romance, nostalgia and powerful vocals. With a legacy that stretches back to 1987, Angham is one of the most beloved artists in the Arab world, known for her emotional delivery and timeless hits like 'Sidi Wesalak', 'Omry Maa’ak', and 'Kol Ma N’arrab'. Whether you’re a fan or discovering her music for the first time, this performance promises to be an unforgettable journey through one of the richest voices in Arabic music. Tickets start from Dhs 195.
Coca-Cola Arena
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'Balancing Act' Exhibition
When: 2 To 4 May
Where: Opera Gallery, DIFC
Explore the art of motion and abstraction at 'Balancing Act', a captivating exhibition showcasing sculptures and works on paper by Alexander Calder and Philippe Hiquily, running until 4 May. See how each artist transformed movement and material into art through kinetic sculptures and surrealist designs. Featuring 21 sculptures and eight original works on paper, the exhibit offers a rare glimpse into the poetic and mechanical mastery of two modernist icons. Free entry.
Opera Gallery
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Layali Firdaus: Opera Under The Dome
When: 3 May
Where: Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai
Celebrate the close of a spectacular musical season as Dubai’s own all-female Firdaus Orchestra takes centre stage at Expo City Dubai. Set beneath the iconic 360° dome of Al Wasl Plaza, the evening promises a stunning fusion of classical and Arabic melodies, delivered with orchestral brilliance. Joined by three distinguished opera soloists, the ensemble will perform a stirring programme of arias, overtures and intermezzi that blend tradition with innovation. Ticket prices start from Dhs 120.
Expo City Dubai
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Walgz Live: The Shutdown
When: 3 May
Where: The Fridge Warehouse, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz
Sudanese rap sensation Walgz is set to take over The Fridge Warehouse with The Shutdown, a high-energy showcase of lyrical power and cultural pride. Known for standout tracks like 'Sasa', 'Red', and 'Mentality', Walgz brings his gritty storytelling and fearless expression to the stage in a night that puts Sudanese rap at the forefront. Backed by raw beats and a powerful stage presence, Walgz’s debut show in Dubai promises a hard-hitting mix of identity, street stories, and rhythmic innovation. Tickets start from Dhs 125.
04-3477793
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Peggy Gou Live
When: 3 May
Where: Sustainability Garden, Expo City Dubai
Dance the night away with house music icon Peggy Gou at the Soho Garden Festival, happening at Expo City Dubai. With global hits like 'It Makes You Forget', and 'Starry Night', the South Korean DJ, producer, and trendsetter will bring her signature blend of house, techno, and electro to Dubai for an unforgettable performance. Gou has captivated audiences worldwide with her infectious energy and genre-defying sound. Get ready for an electric night under the stars. Tickets available from Dhs 200.
Expo City Dubai
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Hany Shaker And Wael Jassar Live
When: 3 May
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai
Two legends of Arabic music come together for an unforgettable evening at Dubai Opera. Catch Egyptian icon Hany Shaker and Lebanese star Wael Jassar performing their greatest hits live. From nostalgic ballads to timeless love songs, the night promises powerful vocals, emotional melodies and pure musical elegance. Expect a heartfelt set-list featuring fan favourites like 'Lesa Betes’aly' and 'Mishit Khalas'. A must-attend for fans of classic Arabic music. Tickets start from Dhs 495.
Dubai Opera
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Hometown Tales By Short+Sweet
When: 3 And 4 May
Where: The Junction, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz
The world's largest short-form theatre festival is back in Dubai at Alserkal Avenue. Catch week 4 of the exciting 10-minute play series as Short+Sweet Theatre presents 'Hometown Tales', a themed weekend exploring roots, origins and identity through bite-sized theatre. From comedy to drama and a variety of story-telling formats including monologues, ensemble pieces, mimes and musicals, each play packs a punch in under 10 minutes. Tickets start from Dhs 100.
Short And Sweet
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Denis Matsuev's Anniversary Concert
When: 4 May
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai
Celebrate the legacy of piano virtuoso Denis Matsuev as he marks his fiftieth anniversary with a grand performance at Dubai Opera. Joined by the Chelyabinsk State Symphony Orchestra under conductor Alexey Rubin, Matsuev will showcase his unmatched talent and powerful stage presence. A winner of the International Tchaikovsky Competition, Matsuev promises an unforgettable evening of classical brilliance. Tickets start from Dhs 350.
Dubai Opera
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Amr Diab Live
When: 4 May
Where: Global Village, Dubai
Catch Arab pop legend Amr Diab live on stage at Global Village on Sunday for a night of music, memories, and massive hits. With an unmatched career spanning nearly four decades, the Egyptian megastar will perform iconic tracks like 'Nour El Ain', 'Tamally Ma'ak', and 'Ana Ayesh', promising a concert full of nostalgia and energy. Free access to the concert with your Global Village tickets starting from Dhs 25.
Global Village
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Wings For Life World Run
When: 4 May
Where: Expo City Dubai
Join thousands of runners across the globe for the Wings for Life World Run. Unlike traditional races, there's no finish line here, instead, participants must outrun a virtual catcher car that starts chasing them 30 minutes after the run begins. Once you’re caught, your race ends. The event is part of a global movement to support spinal cord research, with 100% of entry fees going directly to the cause. Open to both runners and wheelchair users, the race also features spaces with food vendors, refreshment stations, and family-friendly activities. Entry is priced at Dhs 108.
Wings For Life World Run