Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
If you thought the UAE was quiet in November, think again! Dubai is filled with exciting things to do. So, whether you’re after staycations, spas or swimming – here’s what you need to know.
Friday 31 October
Catch a movie at Cinema Akil
Cinema Akil’s seasonal outdoor outpost at 25hours Hotel One Central returns with ticketed screenings and an in-house F&B concept. The Halloween opener features cult favourites A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) and The Addams Family (1991). The new concession stand serves hot dogs, truffle popcorn, cheesy jalapeño nachos, mozzarella sticks, loaded fries, crispy tenders and cinnamon churros. The relaunch also coincides with the opening of 25 Jump Street.
GO: Visit https://cinemaakil.com for more information.
See Anyma live at Ushuaïa Dubai
Anyma launches this year’s Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience on Halloween night, bringing Quantum Dubai to life with immersive visuals, precision beats and cutting-edge stage production. The solo project of Matteo Milleri (one half of Tale Of Us), Anyma’s shows are built as multi-sensory journeys rather than conventional DJ sets. This performance opens a run of gigs at the harbour through the rest of the year.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Catch David Gray at Coca-Cola Arena
David Gray brings his Past & Present Tour to Coca-Cola Arena this weekend, performing hits including “Babylon,” ‘Sailaway” and “This Year’s Love.” Known for poetic lyricism and a distinctive voice, Gray has earned multiple accolades, from Grammy and BRIT nominations to Ivor Novello Awards. Expect a polished live set, strong musicianship and a crowd-pleasing catalogue.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 1 November
Have brunch with a view of Burj Khalifa
La Brasserie Sur Le Boulevard unveils a lavish Saturday brunch inspired by the markets of Provence and the Mediterranean coast. Expect seafood on ice, à la minute oysters, sushi, salad stations, pan-seared foie gras, pasta from the Parmesan wheel and grilled prime cuts. Sweet finishes include French waffles, Crêpes Suzette and a patisserie display. With live entertainment, indoor and terrace seating, and views of Burj Khalifa, it’s refined yet relaxed. Saturdays, 1pm to 4pm. AED 320 (soft), AED 450 (house) and AED 799 (champagne).
GO: Call 04 561 8888 for reservations and more information.
Party at Yas Island’s Afrobiano Fest
Afrobiano Fest returns to Yas Beach with a celebration of Afrobeats and Amapiano set against the sea. This year’s line-up features BOOHLE and Masterpiece YVK. However, it’s not just about the music. Visitors can also enjoy African food and drink from street food stalls, along with immersive art exhibitions and pop-up shops. If you’re chasing festival energy with a coastal backdrop, this is your ticket.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sing along to the hits of Amr Diab
Egyptian pop icon Amr Diab headlines Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena this November with a career-spanning show. In 2025, he partnered with Sony Music to release Ebtadena, a 15-track set that sharpened his pop instincts with family collaborations. Expect favourites like “Khatafouny” and “Yalla,” sleek production, crisp visuals and pacing that keeps the energy high from the first note to the encore.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Sunday 2 November
Have lunch at Manāo
Close the weekend at Manāo, Dubai’s Michelin-starred Thai restaurant, with a relaxed Sunday à la carte. Led by Michelin Young Chef of the Year 2025, Chef Abhiraj, alongside Chef Mohammed Orfali of Orfali Bros, the menu delivers precision and balance in a casual format. Dishes include BQ Coconut Chicken Skewers (AED 35), Crispy Sea Bass with Mango Salad (AED 130), Roasted Chicken Laap (AED 60), Sticky Rice Roti with Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Jeow Bong (AED 28) and Yellow Curry of Prawns with Cumin Leaf (AED 85). Sundays, 12pm to 5pm.
GO: Visit manao.ae for more information.
Enjoy a memorable meal at RARE Brasserie & Bar
Parisian elegance meets New York ease at RARE Brasserie & Bar in City Walk, where a wood-fire kitchen anchors the experience. The new signature seafood tower—layered with crab, lobster, oysters, mussels and prawns—sets the tone for sharing, while the bar and terrace invite lingering from lunch through late-night. It’s polished without being precious.
GO: Visit https://therare.ae for more information.
Catch a vibe at ikandy ultralounge
With front-row views of Burj Khalifa, ikandy ultralounge at Shangri-La Dubai is primed for poolside lounging by day and high-energy sets by night. Fridays mean iKandy Fridays with two hours of free-flow beverages and DJ Azi, while Sundays belong to 4am—serving a soulful blend of pop, reggae, indie, and Afro beats that pairs perfectly with golden-hour cocktails.
GO: Visit https://bit.ly/shangdxb for more information.
