Prepare for festivals, live music and destination dining this week.


It’s a new year, which means it’s time to try new things. The UAE is filled with concerts, new dining destinations, and plenty of entertainment options. Here are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi and Dubai this week.

Monday 6 January

Rest and recharge at Palazzo Versace Dubai

The FACT award-winning SPA at Palazzo Versace Dubai introduces the Platinum & Rarity Journey, a transformative experience that harmonises energy and rejuvenates skin. Begin with a Rarity Full Body Cleansing to purify and refresh, followed by a Platinum Rhassoul Body Mask infused with vitamin B3 for deep hydration and radiance. Conclude with the AMRA Chakra Balancing Massage, aligning the seven chakras with precious stones like Amethyst and Quartz, while Gold, Diamond, and Platinum infuse skin with a luminous glow. Available daily from 11am to 11pm. AED 1,300 (120 minute treatment).

GO: Visit www.palazzoversace.ae for reservations and more information.

Palazzo Versace Spa week

Tuesday 7 January

Dine at Ergon Deli and Café 

Ergon Deli & Café at Erth Abu Dhabi has unveiled its elegant new dinner menu. Drawing inspiration from sun-soaked Mediterranean landscapes, the London-born café offers dishes infused with the rich, aromatic flavours of Greece. Indulge in succulent lobster seasoned with Mediterranean herbs, tender grilled steak served with Greek-inspired sides, and grilled prawns, perfectly paired with live music and serene waterfront views from the terrace for a memorable meal.

GO: Visit www.sevenrooms.com for reservations and more information.

Ergon at Erth Abu Dhabi this week

Wednesday 8 January

Try a cool culinary collab

Chef Akmal Anuar of Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori joins forces with Chef Ahmad Halawa to present an exclusive supper club experience this week. This one-night-only collaboration will blend Japanese and Levantine cuisines across an eight-course sharing menu, meticulously curated to showcase the creative synergy between the chefs. Available on Wednesday, January 8 at 7:30pm. AED 600 per person.

GO: Visit https://chefhalawa.zbni.co for reservations and more information.

Chef Akmal Anuar and Chef Halawa this week

Thursday 9 January

Catch Coldplay in concert

Coldplay’s record-breaking Music of the Spheres World Tour will stop at Zayed Sports City Stadium. The British band’s concerts are immersive experiences known for dazzling light shows, fireworks and LED wristbands. In addition to performing new singles feelslikeimfallinginlove and We Pray, the group will also feature iconic anthems from their extensive catalogue including Clocks, Fix You, Paradise and Viva La Vida. The tour has sold more than 10 million tickets across 164 dates, making it the highest-grossing and most-attended tour ever.

GO: Visit www.livenation.me for tickets and more information.

Coldplay in Abu Dhabi

Friday 10 January

Try the new teppanyaki experience at OKKU

Combining the precision of omakase with the artistry of Teppanyaki, MUSOU by OKKU redefines Japanese cuisine through an exquisite ten-course meal. With just 10 seats, guests are immersed in a culinary performance as master chefs carefully prepare each dish. Every detail is thoughtfully curated, ensuring an evening of exceptional flavours and unforgettable moments. Available Thursday to Sunday, with two seatings at 6:45pm and 9:30pm. AED 599 per person.

GO: Visit www.musoudubai.com for reservations and more information.

OKKU Teppenyaki this week

Saturday 11 January

Enjoy a night at Lúnico

J1 Beach is fast becoming Dubai’s most desirable dining destination, having recently welcomed bars, restaurants and beach clubs. Spanish restaurant and bar Lúnico draws its inspiration from the phases of the moon and offers a modern take on ancient traditions. The menu includes tapas, mains, and desserts, and dishes include Ceviche Gallego, Galician Octopus, Green Apple Oyster, Vieiras with Caviar, and Purple Potato Mille-Feuille. Plus, the dishes showcase biodynamic products that are harvested optimally during the moon’s cycle. Lúnico is open for lunch and dinner, and it transforms from day to night.

GO: Visit www.lunicodubai.ae for more information. 

Lunico this week

Sunday 12 January

Make your way to the Hatta Festival

Prepare to go on a road trip because the enchanting town of Hatta is gearing up for a spectacular transformation. The Hatta Festival 2024 promises a magical blend of lights, fireworks, and entertainment until 12 January 2025. Wadi Hub in Hatta will be the epicentre of this dazzling celebration, where an array of neon lights, fairy lights, candles, and enchanting decorations will turn this location into a whimsical wonderland. However, the real showstopper will be the breathtaking fireworks that will illuminate the Hatta sign every weekend.

GO: Visit www.visithatta.com for more information.

Hatta Festival