This weekend in Dubai offers something for every kind of outing, from comedy nights and live music to theatre, fitness events and stargazing in the desert. Whether you want a relaxed evening, an energetic night out or a family-friendly event, there are plenty of great options to choose from.
Here's Connector's list of things to do this weekend.
Kvartirnik: Nostalgic Evening
Where: Theatre Of Digital Art
When: 17 April
Inspired by the beloved Russian tradition of ‘Kvartirnik’, cosy musical gatherings at home filled with song, stories, and connection, this unique evening lets you to slow down, lean in, and feel closer to your roots. Vocalist Sofia Galas and pianist Nikolai Mishchenko return with a deeply personal evening of nostalgic Russian-language songs, reimagined through elegant and unexpected acoustic arrangements, in a collaboration with Russian-born artist Aleksandr Aleksandrov. Tickets start from Dhs 160.
TODA
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The Laughter Factory
Where: Multiple Venues
When: 17 And 18 April
If your social calendar needs upgrading, consider this your official excuse. The Laughter Factory is back this April with a standout lineup of international talent and regional favourites, promising a night of sharp humour and big laughs. April’s performers include Netflix comedian Robby Collins, British comic John Hague, Dubai-based Valentina Danubio, and poet-storyteller Viswajit Dilip. Together, they are set to deliver bold comedy and fresh perspectives on life, work, and everything in between. Tickets start from Dhs 175. The show on 17 April is happening at Radisson Hotel Dubai, DAMAC Hills, while the one on 18 April is happening at Dukes, The Palm.
The Laughter Factory
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Celebrate Earth Day
Where: Green Planet Dubai
When: 18 And 19 April
To mark Earth Day, The Green Planet on City Walk, Dubai, is hosting a programme, inviting families to reconnect with nature through interactive, educational experiences. The indoor rainforest will offer eco-games, seed planting, prize-winning activities and talks led by its resident animal specialist, covering biodiversity, ecosystems, conservation success stories and simple everyday actions to help protect the planet. Visitors can also meet rainforest animals including purple starlings, panther chameleons and flying foxes, along with the biodome’s mascots, the gorilla and tiger. To make the experience more accessible, UAE residents can visit at a special rate of Dhs 129 during the Earth Day celebrations.
Green Planet Dubai
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Opera Under The Dome By Firdaus Orchestra
Where: Expo City Dubai
When: 18 April
Opera Under the Dome returns to Al Wasl Plaza in Expo City Dubai, with the Firdaus Orchestra filling the 360-degree dome with the grandeur of opera. Experience powerful arias and sweeping orchestral works in an enchanting setting. This edition introduces fresh repertoire, capturing the depth, passion and drama of opera. Part of Al Wasl Season, and under the unifying theme of 'One Destination, Every Celebration,' the event is a celebration of music in an awe-inspiring setting. Tickets start from Dhs 75.
Expo City Dubai
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Arabian Nights Under The Stars
Where: Al Qudra Desert
When: 18 April
Step into a magical evening in the heart of the desert, where Emirati heritage meets the wonders of the universe. Experience culture, storytelling, and the night sky like never before. Guests will journey through engaging talks exploring the UAE’s history, and its inspiring achievements in space exploration. The evening concludes with guided telescope observations, offering a closer look at the stars, planets, and deep-sky wonders above the desert. The experience runs from 6pm to 9pm and costs Dhs 200 for adults and Dhs 150 for children under 13 years.
Arabian Nights Under The Stars
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Skyline Saturdays
Where: The Penthouse
When: 18 April
Joss Dean takes over The Penthouse in FIVE Palm Jumeirah on Saturday, 18 April, with groove-led house, built on rhythm and energy. At just 18, Joss Dean is already one of the most talked-about talents in the UK scene. His follow-up single ‘Was I Loved?’ hit number 75 on the UK Official Chart, surpassing 600,000 Spotify streams. Joss’ sets focus on flow and keeping the dance floor moving from start to finish. Tickets start from Dhs 200 and the show starts at 10pm.
The Penthouse
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Art Run
Where: Expo City Dubai
When: 18 April
The Art Run is a unique wellness experience that brings together movement, art and cultural discovery within the unique landscape of House of Arts, in Expo City Dubai. The community run lets participants engage in a journey that connects body, mind and creative expression. The event reimagines running as a form of artistic expression that extends beyond gallery walls. Participants can choose between 2.5 kilometres, 5 kilometres and 10 kilometres routes, beginning from the House of Arts premises. Tickets cost Dhs 50.
Premier Online
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SHORT+SWEET THEATRE
Where: New Covent Garden Theatre Dubai
When: 18 And 19 April
Searching for an evening that is lively, original and memorable? SHORT+SWEET THEATRE Dubai returns this year, with a larger, sharper and more entertaining edition than before to New Covent Garden Theatre, in Mall of the Emirates. The internationally renowned festival presents standout 10-minute theatre, with an exciting programme of short plays performed by a mix of emerging and established talent from Dubai. Over the course of a single evening, viewers can enjoy an energetic blend of comedy, drama, romance and surprise turns, all woven into a fast-paced theatre experience where every night offers something different. A romcom, a bank heist, a family drama and absurd comedy can all unfold within just two hours. General admission tickets cost Dhs 100.
New Covent Garden Theatre Dubai
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X Fest
Where: The Junction Dubai
When: 18 And 19 April
X Fest is a 10-minute play theatre festival in Dubai, created by The Junction in Alserkal Avenue. The event brings actors, writers, and directors together for short plays performed live on stage. You can enjoy 10 to 11 original 10-minute plays, offering a varied mix of stories, styles and performances in one evening. Some productions are likely to be funny, some thought-provoking, and others unexpected, but all are created for live theatre and presented on stage. Tickets start from Dhs 120.
The Junction Dubai
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Expo City Dubai Half Marathon 2026
Where: Expo City Dubai
When: 19 April
The Expo City Dubai Half Marathon is set to take place on 19 April, bringing together runners from across the region for an unforgettable day of energy, endurance, and unity. Participants can choose between 5 kilometres, 10 kilometres, 16 kilometres or 21 kilometres routes, all following a scenic route around Expo City Dubai, featuring landmarks like the World Pavilions, and Al Wasl Dome. Tickets start from Dhs 150.
Expo City Dubai