Weekend ideas
Thursday is here, which means it’s time to start planning the weekend!
If you’re wondering what to do in Dubai this Friday, Saturday or Sunday, we’ve done the searching for you.
From spectacular Diwali celebrations and contemporary art to food festivals, local markets and interactive family experiences, there’s plenty happening around the city this weekend.
We’ve selected five experiences worth adding to your calendar, with most costing AED 100 or less per person. Whether you’re planning a family outing, meeting friends or looking for something different to explore, there’s something here for you.
1. Global Village: Celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights
When: Friday 6 – Sunday 8 November
Opening hours: Friday and Saturday, 4pm–1am; Sunday, 4pm–midnight
Location: Global Village
Entry: AED 30 per person
Global Village is celebrating Diwali with a special programme dedicated to the Festival of Lights.
Expect colourful decorations, cultural performances, traditional Indian food, festive activities and plenty of entertainment for the whole family.
One of the highlights is the spectacular Diwali-themed drone show featuring 700 drones on Sunday 8 November at 8pm.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience different cultures, enjoy international food and introduce children to festive traditions from around the world.
Best for: Families, couples and culture lovers.
Tickets: https://www.globalvillage.ae/
2. Dubai Design Week: A Celebration of Creativity
When: Friday 6 – Sunday 8 November
Location: Dubai Design District (d3)
Entry: FREE to the main festival
If you enjoy art, architecture, creativity and discovering independent brands, Dubai Design Week should be on your list.
The festival brings together designers, artists, architects and creative entrepreneurs through exhibitions, installations, workshops and interactive experiences.
You can explore contemporary design, discover emerging talent and browse independent businesses at the weekend marketplace.
The main festival is free to visit, although some individual workshops and experiences may require paid registration.
For those interested in the dedicated Downtown Design fair, tickets are available separately from AED 80.
Best for: Art and design enthusiasts, creative entrepreneurs, adults and families with older children.
Information: https://www.dubaidesignweek.ae/
3. Slice DXB: A Weekend for Pizza Lovers
When: Friday 6 & Saturday 7 November
Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
Tickets: From AED 50
If food festivals are more your thing, Slice DXB promises a delicious weekend.
The festival brings together independent pizzerias, talented pizza makers and food vendors, offering visitors the opportunity to discover different styles of pizza and gourmet creations.
Alongside the food, expect live music, entertainment and interactive activities.
It’s a relaxed alternative to a conventional restaurant outing and a good opportunity to try something new.
Best for: Families, couples, food lovers and friends looking for a relaxed weekend experience.
Tickets: Check the current booking availability through Platinumlist.
4. The Ripe Market: Discover Local Businesses
When: Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 November, 9am–9pm
Location: Dubai Police Academy Park, Umm Suqeim
Entry: AED 5
One of our favourite community experiences is back for the outdoor season.
The Ripe Market brings together independent businesses, local makers, artisans, farmers and food vendors in one welcoming outdoor setting.
Visitors can browse handmade products, discover new brands, enjoy fresh produce and explore food stalls and cafés.
There are also family activities, creative workshops and entertainment.
It’s a particularly lovely way to spend a morning or evening with the children while supporting small businesses and discovering something new.
Best for: Families, mums, food lovers and anyone interested in independent businesses.
Information: https://ripeevents.com/ripe-market/academy-park/
5. tabletop.me: A Gaming Experience for the Whole Family
When: Friday 6 – Sunday 8 November
Location: The Concourse Convention Centre, Dubai Outlet Mall
Tickets: From AED 49 for children and AED 99 for adults
Looking for something a little different?
tabletop.me brings together board games, trading cards, role-playing games, miniature painting, creative workshops and gaming tournaments.
Visitors can discover new games, participate in activities and meet other gaming enthusiasts.
With more than 250 playable games, it’s an interactive experience that encourages creativity, problem-solving and social interaction.
It’s particularly appealing for families with older children who enjoy gaming and trying new activities.
Best for: Families, children, teenagers and adults interested in gaming.
Tickets: https://tabletop.me/
Bonus: Dubai Flea Market – A Treasure Hunt for Bargain Lovers
When: Saturday 7 November, 11am–8:30pm
Location: Al Hanna Center, Mankhool Road
Entry: FREE
If you enjoy preloved shopping, vintage finds and discovering unexpected bargains, make time for the Dubai Flea Market.
With more than 70 second-hand sellers, you’ll find a variety of preloved items, homeware, clothing and other interesting discoveries.
It’s also a great way to support reuse and more sustainable shopping.
Information: https://dubai-fleamarket.com/events/
So, what are you doing this weekend?
Dubai has plenty to offer, and enjoying the city doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune.
Whether it’s discovering a new creative exhibition, enjoying a pizza festival, exploring international cultures or finding a bargain at a flea market, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your weekend.
Our recommendation? Pick something you’ve never tried before, invite a friend or take the children along, and make a little time for yourself too.
Enjoy your weekend from HerSphere!
Follow HerSphere for our weekly Weekend Edit, published every Thursday, featuring affordable experiences, family activities, markets, culture and interesting things to discover around Dubai.
