Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
If you thought the UAE was quiet in January, think again! Dubai is filled with exciting things to do. So, whether you’re after dining, staycations, spas or swimming this weekend – here’s what you need to know.
Friday 30 January
Relax at The MAINE Beach House
Beach clubs aren’t a novelty in Dubai, but when a beloved restaurant brand steps out of the dining room and onto the sand, it’s worth paying attention. The MAINE has just unveiled The MAINE Beach House, complete with a bar, beach beds and tree-framed views made for long lunches and sunset drinks. Arriving by boat? You can dock directly at the venue. It’s family-friendly and dog-friendly, too. On the menu, expect MAINE favourites like Crispy Fish Tacos, Lobster Rolls, Chargrilled Artichokes, Grilled Lamb Chops and Sticky Short Ribs, alongside handmade pastas and seafood-led coastal classics.
GO: Visit https://themaine.ae for more information.
Visit Sikka Arts Festival
Marking 14 years of creativity, Sikka Art & Design Festival returns to Al Shindagha from 23 January to 1 February 2026. Expect more than 40 public art pieces across 19 heritage houses, courtyards and alleyways, spanning sculptures, murals and interactive installations. The programme also includes 450+ workshops, panel discussions, 100+ live performances, 13 theatrical productions and 6 orchestral concerts. Foodies are well catered for too, with more than 50 homegrown F&B concepts available throughout the festival.
GO: Follow @sikkaplatform on Instagram for more information.
See Central Cee at Bohemia
UK rap heavyweight Central Cee kicks off 2026 with a one-off show at Bohemia Dubai on Friday, 30 January 2026. Fresh off a blockbuster year that included his debut album Can’t Rush Greatness, a globe-spanning tour and festival appearances from London to Sydney, the rapper is set to bring his chart-topping energy to Dubai for one night only. Expect to hear the singles “GBP” with 21 Savage, “Guilt Trippin,” “Doja”, and “Sprinter,” a collaboration with fellow UK rapper Dave.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 31 January
Try the new brunch at Sexy Fish
Every Saturday, Sexy Fish transforms its kaleidoscopic interiors into an all-white world for Cloud Dancer brunch, complete with flowing monochrome performers, immersive visuals and an all-white dress code for guests. The White Candy Room returns with sculptural desserts designed to impress, while the menu delivers a generous sharing spread of sushi, sashimi, salads and raw bites. Mains include Spicy Beef Tenderloin, Black Cod with Harissa Miso, Salmon Teriyaki and Chicken Tempura, with sides like Kimchi Fried Rice, Crispy Potatoes with yoghurt dressing and Grilled Sweetcorn with citrus butter. Available on Saturdays from 12:30pm to 4pm. AED 480 (soft beverages), AED 640 (house beverages), and AED 811 (premium beverages).
GO: Visit https://sexyfishdubai.me for more information.
Dance to the hits of Ricky Martin
Abu Dhabi is turning up the volume with the announcement that Latin superstar Ricky Martin will headline Saadiyat Nights on Saturday, 31 January 2026. Having spearheaded the “Latin Explosion” of the late 1990s, Ricky Martin is widely recognised for introducing Latin pop to the global mainstream. With his signature high-energy performances, the Latin music icon is known for delivering hit after hit. Fans can expect a dynamic setlist packed with chart-topping favourites like “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” “She Bangs,” and “Vente Pa’ Ca,” alongside fresh tracks from his latest album.
GO: Visit www.ticketmaster.ae for more information.
Party under the stars with Alesso
Swedish DJ and producer Alesso lands at Terra Solis on Saturday, 31 January 2026. Known for arena-ready anthems and crossover hits, he’s the force behind festival staples like “Calling (Lose My Mind)” and “Heroes (We Could Be),” plus collaborations including “Under Control” with Calvin Harris and Hurts. If you’re chasing big-room euphoria under the desert sky, this is the one.
GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.
Sunday 1 February
Have breakfast by the beach
Make the most of Ras Al Khaimah’s glorious winter weather with a relaxed weekend by the sea at Pullman Al Marjan Island. Ease into the weekend at Zaitouna House, a Mediterranean-inspired spot with a laid-back Saturday and Sunday breakfast. Unlimited favourites are served to your table for AED 89 per person, making it one of the best ways to savour a sunlit weekend in the Northern Emirates.
GO: Call 054 991 8862 for more information.
Check out the latest edition of Vinyl Souk
On Sunday, 1 February, Vinyl Souk returns to 25hours Hotel One Central with its Mini Festival, presented with Jameson, from 4pm until late. Spread across six spaces, expect live bands, DJ sets, vinyl sessions, talks, workshops and film, with showcases from Feedasoul and Jugaar Records, sets from Vik Sohonie, and live performances from Postcards and Snakeskin, plus a record fair and family-friendly activities.
GO: Follow @vinylsoukdxb on Instagram for more information.
Head to this year’s Ras Al Khaimah Arts Festival
Now in its 14th edition, Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival runs until 8 February 2026 at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. This year’s theme explores how ancestral voices and contemporary innovation shape creative expression across the UAE and beyond. Alongside installations and exhibitions, there are workshops and tours spanning art, heritage and food, plus indoor and outdoor film screenings.
GO: Visit www.rakart.ae for more information.
