Things To Do For The Weekend 16-18 January

This weekend, Dubai’s calendar is turning up the energy with a vibrant mix of music, comedy, culture, fitness, and family-friendly fun. From electrifying arena concerts to intimate theatre performances and scenic wellness sessions by the sea, the city offers something for every mood and interest.

Whether you’re planning a high-energy night out, a cultural deep dive, a wellness-focused morning, or a memorable weekend with the family, this lineup captures the dynamic spirit of Dubai and showcases why the city remains a leading destination for world-class entertainment and experiences.

This one's a high-energy live concert by one of Iran’s most popular contemporary pop artists, Aron Afshar. Known for his emotional vocals, chart-topping hits, and strong connection with audiences, this concert promises an engaging and memorable evening for Persian-speaking fans in Dubai. The performance will feature a seamless musical flow with no intermission, delivering a dynamic and uninterrupted live experience in a premium theatre setting. Tickets start at Dhs 159.

The Laughter Factory
Where: Radisson Hotel DAMAC Hills And Dukes, The Palm, Dubai
When: 16 And 17 January

The Laughter Factory brings a comedic tour across the UAE, featuring top stand-up comedians and fun personalities who deliver a non-stop lineup of jokes, sketches, and crowd-pleasing humour. The show on 16 January will happen at Radisson Hotel DAMAC Hills, while the one on 17 January will happen at Dukes, The Palm, Dubai.

Whether you enjoy observational comedy or energetic stage presence, this festival-style offering promises fun nights out and memorable punchlines in a relaxed, social setting. Tickets start at Dhs 160.

Wegz And Mounir Live
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
When: 17 January

Catch Wegz and Mounir live in Dubai for a concert blending genres, energy, and stage charisma. The event promises to showcase their top hits, engaging performance styles, and dynamic stage chemistry that appeals to a broad audience. Expect an electrifying atmosphere, strong beats, and an enthusiastic crowd as these artists bring their signature sounds to the city. Tickets start at Dhs 195.

Stand-Up Comedian Mina Nader Live
Where: Zabeel Theatre - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
When: 17 January

Mina Nader brings his unique comedic voice and sharp observational humour to Dubai with Wagef!, a stand-up show designed to make audiences laugh with wit, charm, and relatable storytelling. Known for his energetic performances and engaging stage presence, Nader mixes personal anecdotes with playful improv to deliver a night full of laughter. Tickets start at Dhs 195.

One of the most innovative forces in electronic music, Davide Squillace takes over The Penthouse on 17 January. Squillace is known for genre-defying sets and groundbreaking projects like Blender, where music, art, and tech collide. With releases on Desolat, Minus, Hot Creations, and more, plus his own labels like This and That Lab, Squillace continues to push creative boundaries worldwide. Tickets start at Dhs 200.

Dubai Municipality has announced that the fourth season of the Ramadan Souq will open on 17 January at the Old Municipality Street Square in the Grand Souq area of Deira, running until 15 February.

The 25-day Ramadan Souq, open daily from 10am to 10pm, celebrates Emirati traditions just ahead of the Holy Month. The vibrant fest transforms a public space into a bustling hub that draws culture lovers, shopaholics, and foodies. Shop for traditional clothing, perfumes, household goods, incense, dates, spices, and more.

A miniature souq, featuring stalls run by long-established shopkeepers offering Ramadan essentials and items for the popular Haq Al Laila celebration, will also be part of the fest.

That's not all! Visitors can also indulge in authentic Emirati food, enjoy live performances by Emirati folk artists, or take part in competitions. Children can have fun with interactive workshops and activities.

This weekend, bring your family and friends together with a lively mix of vibrant experiences at The Ripe Market Academy Park. Shop from local farmers, discover delicious food vendors, enjoy children’s activities, live entertainment, take part in fun workshops, fitness classes, educational activities, horseback riding, petting zoo, retail pop-ups, and so much more.

Dubai Opera, in collaboration with M Premiere, presents the regional debut of War and Peace, a breathtaking stage adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s monumental masterpiece, exploring the deepest questions of love, destiny, and the human spirit in times of conflict.

Directed by the acclaimed Rimas Tuminas, this landmark production was created in 2021 to mark the centenary of the legendary Vakhtangov State Academic Theatre of Russia. Since its premiere, it has captivated audiences worldwide with more than 100 sold-out performances, earning praise from leading critics and audiences for its emotional depth, visual splendour, and artistic ambition.

Uniting celebrated actors of stage and screen with the Vakhtangov Theatre’s most exceptional young talents, this epic five-hour theatrical odyssey unfolds through powerful performances, evocative music, and striking visual poetry. It is a rare opportunity to experience Tolstoy’s world brought to life with extraordinary emotional and artistic force.

ActivateMe™ is Dubai’s first-of-its-kind family community festival, a place where movement, creativity, and discovery come alive. Happening on 17 and 18 January at Dubai Silicon Oasis, ActivateMe™ Fest brings families together in a vibrant space designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and connection.

Across two inspiring days, you’ll explore curated zones filled with opportunities to try something new: from soccer drills and dance workshops to board games, e-gaming, live performances, and hands-on learning experiences. Whether you’re a child taking your first steps into a new sport or an adult rediscovering a forgotten passion, there’s something here for everyone.

At its heart, ActivateMe™ is about the balance between fun and growth, play and learning, movement and creativity. Entry is priced at Dhs 70 for children and Dhs 100 for adults.

The Michelin 24H Dubai 2026 returns to Dubai Autodrome for one of the world’s most iconic endurance races. Over 24 continuous hours, international GT teams and professional drivers compete through day and night, delivering non-stop racing, strategy, and drama. Alongside the on-track action, the event offers a full day-to-night experience with food and beverage outlets, DJs, and entertainment zones, making it a great outing for the whole family. Tickets start from Dhs 99.

The world’s longest-running play comes to Dubai! Agatha Christie’s legendary whodunnit The Mousetrap will keep you guessing until the very last twist! Step inside the original ‘whodunnit’ that defined a genre. For more than 70 years, The Mousetrap has thrilled audiences in London’s West End with its twists, tension, and unforgettable reveal. Can you solve the mystery before anyone else and keep the secret once you do? Tickets start at Dhs 99.

Kite Mela 2026 in Dubai is a colourful, family-friendly festival happening on 18 January at Amity School Ground, Al Qusais. Running from 11am to 8pm, the festival celebrates kite flying with vibrant aerial displays, lively music from DJs and bands, cultural performances, food stalls, craft shopping, fun zones, competitions, and more. Attendees can showcase their own kites, enjoy traditional flavours and entertainment for all ages in a festive outdoor atmosphere.