From restaurants and concerts to mega events…

the only thing you’ve escaped. While you’ve been soaking up the sun, exploring cooler shores, or reconnecting with your roots, there’s been a lot going on across the emirates.

From trendy new restaurant openings to massive concerts and festivals, let’s get you up to speed on 15 major events you might have missed.

Ushuaia Dubai is set to debut with an electrifying performance by Calvin Harris this October.

Ibiza legend Ushuaïa is making its Dubai debut at Dubai Harbour this October, featuring an unmissable headline performance by Calvin Harris on Saturday, October 26. General Admission tickets sold out in minutes, but the venue is working on expanding capacity to release more. A limited number of VIP tables are now available for booking through platinumlist.net.

Loco Bear, a massive entertainment hotspot, has just opened its doors in Al Quoz.

Loco Bear, the ultimate adventure hub, has taken over a massive 70,000-square-foot space in Al Quoz 2, offering endless thrills and challenges. For the little ones, there’s a one-of-a-kind slime universe filled with engaging activities and a soft play zone that’s perfect for shaking up the usual summer routine. The venue also boasts 18,500 square feet of interconnected trampolines, along with Ninja warrior and parkour challenges, plus an exhilarating wipeout area.

The excitement continues upstairs with a six-lane bowling alley and a range of arcade games like shuffleboard, arm wrestling tables, air hockey, pool, and more. For those craving some friendly competition, there are two cutting-edge Laser Tag arenas where you and your crew can gear up for an epic showdown. Prices start at Dhs135 for kids and Dhs140 for adults.

… and there’s another one on the way for families in the form of Hamley’s Play

Exciting news for families in Dubai: Hamleys, the world’s oldest and largest toy retailer, is unveiling a brand-new experience at Dubai Hills Mall this August with the launch of Hamleys Play. Far more than just a toy store, Hamleys Play is a magical playground brimming with interactive and imaginative activities for kids of all ages. The space features a variety of play zones, including soft play areas, hands-on workshops, character meet-and-greets, live performances, a sweet shop, and even an event space perfect for hosting unforgettable birthday parties.

A London-favorite crazy golf spot, Swingers, is making its way to Blue waters this October.

Announced last summer, London’s much-loved crazy golf spot, Swingers, is set to open on Bluewaters Island later this year. Each Swingers location is designed to evoke the charm of an English country club, complete with indoor greenery, windmill-themed courses, and a cozy atmosphere. The Dubai venue will be a massive 22,000-square-foot space spread over two floors, featuring three exciting crazy golf courses, each with a classic English theme: a hot air balloon course, a waterwheel course, and a clock tower course. Get ready to challenge your friends to some friendly competition.Exclusive to the Dubai location is a one-of-a-kind speakeasy, where you can sip on drinks in a private bar and enjoy a luxurious crazy golf course, adding a VIP flair to your gatherings or private events.

Starting in September, we’ll finally get to experience the 13 beach eats at J1 Beach.

It’s been almost two years since La Mer South was torn down to make room for J1 Beach, an upscale dining hotspot in Jumeirah 1. This September, the first of the 13 restaurants and beach clubs will finally open their doors. The full lineup features a mix of international concepts and local gems, including La Baia, a stunning tribute to sun-drenched days on the southern Italian Riviera. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, this chic beach club promises a delightful slice of Italy right on Jumeirah’s shores. Expect a feast of Southern Italian flavors, vibrant and stylish decor, and sensational live performances that capture the essence of summer on the Italian coast. It’s set to be an unforgettable sensory journey to one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.

Three new restaurants are set to debut at The Lana.

One of the year’s most anticipated hotel openings, The Lana – Dorchester Collection, will soon add three new dining gems to its already stellar culinary roster. Get ready for:

• China Tang, the renowned Chinese restaurant from London’s Dorchester, bringing its iconic flavors to Dubai.
• Dragonfly, an upscale Izakaya offering gourmet dining, expert mixology, and breathtaking skyline views.
• Frou Frou, where you can savor classic French-inspired dishes, artisanal cheeses curated by a dedicated sommelier, exquisite pastries, and a multi-sensory cocktail experience.

… and several more in DIFC

This summer, DIFC is buzzing with exciting new dining additions, solidifying its status as the city’s financial and gourmet epicenter. At the newly unveiled Innovation One tower, London’s celebrated Duck and Waffle is set to elevate all-day dining. Opening this November, this London favorite will introduce its playful comfort food, creative cocktails, and lively ambiance to a sprawling 10,000-square-foot space with stunning Burj Khalifa views, redefining the all-day dining experience.

Meanwhile, ICD Brookfield is welcoming a trio of spectacular new spots: Bar des Prés and Il Gattopardo on Level 51, and the stylish Art Deco bar 1920 on Level 52. Additionally, Capital Club is adding a touch of sophistication with NAHATE, a chic and cozy restaurant that evokes the vibe of a luxurious city penthouse.

Martin Garrix is making a comeback to Atlantis, The Palm.

Following a sensational performance that launched Atlantis Live earlier this year, superstar DJ Martin Garrix is set to return to Atlantis, The Palm. On Saturday, November 16, he’ll light up a custom-built stage with his trademark high-energy set for an unforgettable open-air concert. Early bird tickets are available now, starting at Dhs175 for general admission.

The Backstreet Boys are heading to the capital as they headline UFC Showdown Week.

Everybody, get ready to rock your body: the Backstreet Boys are making their return to Abu Dhabi this October! As part of the thrilling UFC Showdown Week, the legendary pop band will take the stage at Etihad Arena on Wednesday, October 23. Fans lucky enough to snag tickets can look forward to classic hits like “I Want It That Way,” “Shape of My Heart,” “Quit Playing Games,” and “Everybody.” Note that Kevin Richardson will be missing from this performance due to scheduling conflicts.

A thrilling new dinner and a show will be roaring us back to the 1920s

Renowned in Barcelona for its dazzling dinner shows inspired by The Great Gatsby, Gatsby is bringing its flair to Palm Jumeirah this September. Gatsby Dubai promises a sultry evening with an unforgettable dinner show, followed by a lively dance party that lasts into the early hours. Dust off your feathers and shine in your sequins—this roaring twenties soirée is bound to be an extravagant affair you won’t want to miss…

A throwback gig is taking place at Bla Bla, headlined by S Club

Get ready to belt out your favorite 90s and 00s anthems: Mixtape is back at Bla Bla on November 2 with an all-star lineup of Britpop icons. Joining the festival are throwback legends S Club, Melanie C, Peter Andre, and Gareth Gates. Tickets start at Dhs245.

Manifestation guru Roxie Nafousi is bringing her transformative live show to Dubai.

 

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Renowned self-development coach, inspirational speaker, and manifestation expert Roxie Nafousi is bringing her transformative live show to the Middle East for the first time this October. If her best-selling book, MANIFEST: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life, which has touched millions worldwide, is any guide, this event is set to be truly life-changing. Catch her on October 16 at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s Zabeel Theatre, with tickets starting from Dhs300.

Taste of Abu Dhabi will shine a spotlight on the capital’s culinary delights this November.

Taste of Abu Dhabi is back at Gateway Park South on Yas Island from November 14 to 17, 2024. This premier culinary event promises another exciting weekend of gourmet experiences, featuring three days of exceptional food and entertainment. Expect celebrity chef demos, exclusive workshops, and interactive sessions with renowned names like Marco Pierre White, José Pizarro, Sanjeev Kapoor, Mario Loi, Fred Casagrande, and more. Tickets start at Dhs55.

O Beach announced its Dubai opening date

After years of anticipation, Ibiza’s iconic O Beach is launching its first-ever Dubai location this winter. Situated on the beachfront of Dubai’s Habtoor Grand hotel on JBR, O Beach Dubai will take over the space formerly occupied by Andreea’s beach club, spanning an impressive 55,000 square feet of fun. With breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and Ain Dubai, the venue will feature a 4,000 square-foot swimming pool, a sunset beach bar, a stylish restaurant, a DJ booth, plush cabanas, a beachfront day bed area, and a VIP section. The grand opening weekend is set for Thursday, October 24 through Sunday, October 27. Bookings will open for O Beach newsletter subscribers on Tuesday, September 3, with general reservations available from Wednesday, September 4. Prices are yet to be announced.