Best things to do in Dubai this weekend (22-23 November, 2025)

Dubai’s much-loved winter season is finally here and this weekend looks like a classic November combo of warm sun, clearer skies and cooler evenings. Daytime temperatures should hover around 29–31 °C, so it will feel summery in the sun but not as exhausting as August. Nights will likely drop to 20–22 °C, which is perfect for waterfront walks, rooftop gigs and open-air festivals.

Rain is still unlikely, but humidity can spike for short periods, especially near the coast. Light layers, a hat and plenty of water will make a big difference if you plan to hop between outdoor events. With several big draws on the calendar, including car festivals, concerts and dog-friendly gatherings, this weekend is a good chance to explore different sides of the city rather than staying in one mall. Below is a full, practical run-through of what you can plan for your weekend, from early Saturday right through Sunday night.

Saturday Morning — 22 November 2025

Icons of Porsche Festival

Dubai Design District becomes a petrolhead paradise as Porsche fans gather for the annual Icons of Porsche festival. Expect classic 911s, rare race cars, futuristic EV concepts and community-built projects parked across themed zones. Doors typically open around 10 a.m. and the most comfortable hours for families are before midday, when the sun is softer and crowds are lighter. Standard entry is around AED 95–120 per adult, with children often discounted or free depending on age. Car clubs from around the region usually cruise in, so if you are driving, aim to reach d3 by 9:30 a.m. to secure a closer parking spot. Wear breathable clothes and comfortable shoes because you will easily clock several kilometres just walking between displays. The site is wheelchair-accessible with ramps, but some areas can get crowded at peak times.

Down to Earth Festival

The Jaddaf Waterfront Sculpture Park outside Jameel Arts Centre hosts the eco-themed Down to Earth festival, focusing on sustainability and community. Expect plant markets, composting and gardening workshops, talks about green living and hands-on activities for kids like seed-bomb making and DIY crafts. The programme usually runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with vendors and activities in shaded outdoor tents. Entry to the park and many activities is typically free, though some workshops may require pre-registration or a small materials fee. Families often spread picnic blankets on the grass and spend several hours moving between stalls. Parking is available but can fill up around lunchtime and during headline talks. If you are coming with children, pack a picnic mat and reusable water bottles to avoid queuing at the small kiosks.

Global Village Soft Start

Although most people think of Global Village as a night-time spot, you can use the late morning to plan a visit and buy tickets for the evening. Global Village’s new season usually starts in late October and runs through April, with this weekend well into the swing of things. Tickets are typically around AED 25–30 when bought online, slightly higher at the gate. There is no need to spend your morning there, but it’s worth deciding which country pavilions, shows and food stands are must-see so you can move efficiently when you go later. Check which evenings have fireworks or special shows, as those nights are busier and parking can take longer than you expect.

Saturday Afternoon — 22 November 2025

AWEH! Fest

Garden by Kickers in Dubai Sports City hosts a joyous celebration of southern African music and culture with AWEH! Fest. Expect DJs, live performers, braai-style food stalls and a relaxed open-air vibe around the football pitches. Gates usually open from 1 p.m., with the main crowd arriving mid-afternoon and staying into the evening. Tickets for similar festivals tend to start around AED 150–250 per adult, with VIP sections higher and kids either discounted or free under a certain age. Because the venue is mostly outdoors and the grass can still be warm, light clothing and comfortable trainers are better than heavy fashion choices. Taxis can be in high demand at closing time, so consider booking a return ride in advance or car-pooling with friends.

Dubai Opera Backstage or Matinee Visit

If you love the performing arts, check Dubai Opera’s schedule for backstage tours or matinee shows on Saturday afternoon. Tours generally cost around AED 75–100 per person and last about an hour, taking you through the auditorium, backstage corridors and sometimes even the dressing rooms if they are not in use. Matinee performances for families and classical music lovers occasionally take place on Saturday afternoons as well, with ticket prices varying widely depending on the show. You can comfortably pair a visit here with a stroll through Downtown or lunch at Souk Al Bahar. If you are driving, remember that parking under Burj Park and Dubai Mall can get very busy; arrive early to avoid rushing to your tour slot.

Beach Time at JBR

For a laid-back afternoon, head to The Beach at JBR, where you can swim, stroll, or relax on the sand. Public beach access is free, while sunbed and umbrella rentals typically cost AED 60–120 depending on the spot and duration. There are playgrounds for children, outdoor showers and a jogging track along the shore. It’s family-friendly, but weekends can be crowded and finding a prime spot after 2 p.m. becomes harder. Parking is available in JBR’s basement car parks and nearby malls, usually on an hourly paid basis. Watch the flag system and lifeguard instructions carefully, especially if there are waves or currents, as conditions can change during the day.

Saturday Evening — 22 November 2025

Madness Live at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre

Saturday night’s big music highlight is expected to be British band Madness performing at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. Gates for concerts here usually open around 6 p.m., with opening acts beginning from 7 p.m. and the main show starting roughly between 9 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Ticket prices for such shows typically start around AED 250–300 for standing areas, rising to AED 450–600 for premium or seating sections, though exact tiers depend on the promoter. Food and drink stalls operate inside, including licensed beverage counters. Dubai Media City parking gets congested very quickly before major gigs, with road closures or diversions sometimes in place. Consider taking a taxi or rideshare and aim to arrive at least an hour before the headliner to clear security and find a good viewing spot.

Bongo’s Bingo at Bla Bla

If you are in the mood for something more chaotic and playful, Bla Bla at JBR often hosts Bongo’s Bingo, a hybrid of bingo, rave and comedy. The night includes loud singalongs, audience participation and quirky prizes. Doors usually open around 7 p.m., with the show starting between 8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tickets generally run from AED 150–250, sometimes including a drink. This event is strictly adults-only, and the atmosphere becomes very lively as the night goes on. If you are noise-sensitive or prefer a calmer environment, this is not the best choice for you.

Global Village Evening Visit

Once the sun sets, head to Global Village for a classic Dubai winter evening. Pavilions representing different countries sell street food, handicrafts and souvenirs, while outdoor stages host cultural performances and stunt shows. Gates usually open from 4 p.m. and the park stays open until midnight on weekends. Entry is typically AED 25–30 per person, with optional extras for certain rides and attractions. You could easily spend 4–5 hours exploring different pavilions, watching performances and grazing on snacks from around the world. Several parking options exist, including free, paid and valet zones, with shuttle buses from the furthest lots. Families should agree on a meeting point near the main gate in case anyone gets separated in the crowds.

Sunday Morning — 23 November 2025

Dubai Run on Sheikh Zayed Road

Sunday morning is dominated by Dubai Run, the huge community running event that turns Sheikh Zayed Road into a car-free track. Participants typically choose between a 5 km family-friendly loop and a 10 km route that stretches further along the highway. Start times are usually around 4 a.m. to 7 a.m., with runners asked to arrive well before dawn to line up in their starting zones. Registration is usually free but must be completed online in advance. Roads around Downtown, World Trade Centre and certain bridges to Sheikh Zayed Road will be closed or heavily restricted from the early hours until late morning. If you are not running, avoid driving anywhere near Sheikh Zayed Road between 3 a.m. and 11 a.m. and use alternative routes in older districts instead.

Sunrise Walk at Kite Beach

If you prefer a calmer start to Sunday, head to Kite Beach for a sunrise walk while much of the city is busy with the run. Arrive around 6 a.m., grab a coffee from one of the beachfront kiosks and stroll along the jogging track with views of Burj Al Arab in the distance. The early morning tends to attract families with strollers, dog-walkers (in designated areas) and fitness enthusiasts cooling down after their workouts. Parking at Kite Beach is a mix of free and paid zones; some sections may be partially affected by Dubai Run traffic detours, so allow extra time. Expect to spend AED 25–40 on coffee and a light snack. Even right after sunrise the UV index rises quickly, so bring sunglasses and lightweight sun protection.

Sunday Late Morning & Lunch — 23 November 2025

Woofstock UAE

Dog lovers shouldn’t miss Woofstock at Dubai Islands Beach. Running across the weekend, this festival usually includes agility shows, water-sport sessions, adoption drives and live music. Entry for humans has previously been free, while owners may pay a small behavioural assessment fee per dog at the gate to ensure all pets are safe around others. Expect the main programme on Sunday to run roughly from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with peak crowds in late morning and mid-afternoon. Food trucks and pet-focused stalls sell everything from treats and accessories to grooming services. Parking is available near the beach but can be sandy and uneven in parts. Bring water bowls and shade for your dog, and remember that only vaccinated, well-behaved dogs on a leash are permitted.

Dubai Garden Glow & Dinosaur Park

While Dubai Garden Glow really comes alive after dark, visiting the adjacent Dinosaur Park area earlier in the day can work well for families with younger children who tire easily at night. The park near Zabeel typically opens in the late afternoon, but on busy weekends some zones may allow earlier entry. Tickets for combined entry to the attractions usually cost around AED 70–90 per person, with toddlers often going free. Dinosaur Park features life-size animatronic dinosaurs with sound effects, interactive zones and play areas. If you plan to stay into the evening for the illuminated Garden Glow displays, bring a light jacket because it can feel breezy in the open park after sunset.

Lunch at a Festival City Waterfront Spot

Dubai Festival City’s waterfront restaurants offer relaxed lunch options with views of the creek and skyline. A typical sit-down meal here ranges between AED 90–140 per person, depending on the restaurant and whether you order starters or desserts. Some venues have kids’ menus and indoor play corners, which are useful if you have younger children who need a break from the sun. Parking is generally plentiful in the mall, and the area is stroller-friendly. Time your lunch to avoid the midday peak on the roads exiting Festival City, especially if there are other large events in nearby districts.

Sunday Afternoon — 23 November 2025

Sephoria Beauty Festival

Beauty lovers can indulge at Sephoria in Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City. The last day of the festival is expected to run on Sunday with immersive brand booths, masterclasses and selfie-ready installations. Typical entry for such events ranges from AED 150–300 depending on session type and whether gift bags are included. Timed sessions across the afternoon might start around 12 p.m. and continue until 7 p.m., with different beauty founders and influencers appearing at scheduled slots. As Expo City can be a bit of a walk between parking and the main plaza, especially in the afternoon sun, comfortable shoes are essential. Plan for at least three hours inside if you want to attend a masterclass, explore all zones and queue for popular experiences.

Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden reopened for the winter season with more than 150 million flowers arranged in arches, structures and themed displays. Sunday afternoon from 3 p.m. onwards is a lovely time to visit because the light softens and temperatures are more forgiving. Entry typically costs around AED 55 per adult and AED 40 per child, with children under a certain age free. You can easily spend 2–3 hours wandering through heart-shaped tunnels, giant cartoon characters and floral castles. There are simple food kiosks for snacks and drinks, but not many shaded seating areas. Wear comfortable shoes and a hat; there’s little shade during the day and you will be walking on uneven surfaces in some areas.

Al Qudra Cycle Track Ride

For something more active, head out to the Al Qudra cycle track in the desert. The loop is popular with both serious cyclists and casual riders thanks to its smooth tarmac and wide open views. Mid-afternoon can still be warm, so many people choose to start around 4 p.m. and ride into sunset. You can rent a basic road bike for roughly AED 85–120 for two hours from rental shops near the track. Helmets are usually mandatory and often included in the rental fee. There are rest stops with small shops along the route. Keep in mind that strong desert winds can make the ride harder than expected, so choose a shorter loop if you are not a regular cyclist.

Sunday Evening — 23 November 2025

Global Village Night Out

If you didn’t make it to Global Village on Saturday, Sunday night is another prime window to visit. The atmosphere is slightly more relaxed than on Thursdays and Fridays, though still lively. You can wander pavilions, catch one of the evening stunt shows and pick up last-minute gifts from artisan stalls. Entry and timings remain the same as described earlier, but crowds taper off a little earlier on Sundays as residents prepare for the work week. Try to leave 30–45 minutes before closing time if you want to avoid queues when exiting the car park.

Rooftop Drinks at JBR or Bluewaters

For couples or groups of friends looking for a Sunday wind-down, rooftop lounges around JBR and Bluewaters offer skyline views and sea breezes. Many venues run sunset happy hours roughly between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., with mixed drinks around AED 40–60 and mocktails at AED 30–45. While some rooftops are more relaxed, others enforce dress codes and minimum spends. Always check the age policy before you go, as many rooftop bars are strictly 21+ after a certain time.

Cinema Night

If you want something low-key, finish the weekend with a film at one of Dubai’s major cinemas in malls like Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall or City Centre Deira. Big releases in late November 2025 are expected to include at least one major action sequel and a family-friendly animated film. Weekend evening showtimes typically run between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m., with ticket prices around AED 40–55 depending on the cinema chain and seating category. Premium experiences like recliner seats or dine-in cinemas can reach AED 120–150 per ticket. Buy tickets online or via the cinema app where possible to avoid queues at the box office, especially for prime 8 p.m. slots.

Alternative Ideas

Breakfast — Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi

For a traditional breakfast vibe, start one of your weekend mornings at Arabian Tea House in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. The courtyard setting, with white wicker chairs and turquoise accents, feels worlds away from the city’s glass towers. Breakfast platters with breads, eggs and local dishes usually cost around AED 45–70 per person, with big sharing trays available for families. The cafe opens from 8 a.m. on weekends, making it ideal before a day of museum visits or creekside walks. Arrive early because the courtyard tables are very popular with both residents and tourists taking photos.

Coffee — Specialty Cafe Stop

Dubai’s specialty coffee scene has grown rapidly, and neighbourhoods like Jumeirah and Jumeirah Lakes Towers are dotted with independent cafes. You could plan a mid-morning coffee stop at a small roastery serving single-origin beans, with a flat white or pour-over typically costing AED 20–28. Many spots offer quiet corners with power outlets, making them good for solo travellers catching up on work or reading. Weekends see a rush between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., so plan for possible waiting times if the cafe is widely known on social media. If you are driving, double-check parking rules on side streets, as certain spots may be residential only or use paid RTA zones.

Lunch or Dinner — Casual Restaurant in Business Bay

Business Bay is full of mid-priced restaurants offering global cuisines, from Levantine grills to Asian fusion. It’s a practical choice for a late lunch or early dinner, particularly if you’re already in Downtown or at Dubai Mall. Expect mains to be AED 65–110, with full meals landing around AED 120–170 per person including drinks. Many venues have terraces facing the canal or skyline, which are comfortable in November evenings. Because the district is dense with one-way streets and limited visitor parking, it’s often easier to park once in a tower’s visitor lot and walk to nearby restaurants.

Family Water Activity — Beach Club Day Pass

Families wanting a water-focused day can consider a beach club or hotel pool day pass along JBR, Palm Jumeirah or Jumeirah Beach. Prices vary widely, but you can find weekend offers with adult passes around AED 150–300 including pool and beach access and sometimes a food credit. Many venues offer reduced rates for children or complimentary entry below a certain age. Lifeguards are present at most hotel beaches, but currents can still be strong beyond the flags. Check whether your chosen beach club is more party-oriented or family-oriented; some venues become loud and crowded from mid-afternoon onwards.

Nature & Sport — Hatta Kayak

For a change of scenery, plan a half-day trip to Hatta Dam for kayaking. The drive from Dubai takes about 90 minutes, and November temperatures in the mountains are usually a few degrees cooler than in the city. Kayak rentals for one or two people typically start from AED 60–120 per hour, with pedal boats and larger family boats available at higher prices. The turquoise reservoir waters are surrounded by rugged mountains, making it a scenic but gentle paddle suitable for beginners. Try to arrive before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. to avoid the harshest midday sun on the exposed water.

Culture & Art — Museum of the Future or Etihad Museum

If you haven’t yet visited, the Museum of the Future continues to be one of Dubai’s most talked-about attractions. Timed tickets usually cost around AED 145 per person and must be booked in advance, with entry slots spaced across the day. The immersive exhibits imagine future cities, climate solutions and space exploration, and you should allow at least 2–3 hours for the experience. Alternatively, Etihad Museum at Jumeirah tells the story of the UAE’s founding through documents, films and interactive displays, with tickets generally under AED 40. For both museums, avoid carrying large bags as security screening and locker queues can slow you down.

Day Trip — East Coast Snorkelling

For a full-day escape, join a snorkelling excursion on the east coast, often departing from Fujairah or nearby ports. Many tour operators include return transport from Dubai, with total journeys taking about 2 hours each way and 3–4 hours on the water. Packages usually cost AED 250–400 per person depending on boat type and inclusions, such as lunch and equipment rental. The Gulf of Oman’s waters are typically clearer than the Gulf near Dubai, giving you a better chance of seeing colourful fish and occasional turtles. Always check that your tour operator provides life jackets and follows safety protocols.

Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi

Art enthusiasts can make a day trip to Louvre Abu Dhabi. The museum’s striking architecture, featuring a perforated dome that casts dappled light over the promenades, is almost as compelling as the collection inside. Permanent galleries mix works from different civilizations, while temporary exhibitions often spotlight particular themes or artists. The museum usually opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 8 p.m. on weekends. Admission sits at around AED 63, and the drive from Dubai takes about 70–90 minutes depending on traffic. Because you are crossing into another emirate, carry your Emirates ID or passport for the drive.

Weather & Travel Tips

The weekend forecast points to warm days and cool nights with average highs around 30 °C and lows near 21 °C. Humidity along the coast can still be noticeable, but nothing like peak summer levels. Even in November, UV levels in mid-day hours remain high, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Light cotton layers, sunglasses, hats and regular sunscreen are essential if you plan to stay outdoors for long stretches. For events in deserts or mountain areas like Al Qudra and Hatta, evenings can feel several degrees cooler than in the city, so bring a light jacket. Sandals are fine for malls and short walks, but closed shoes are better for festivals, parks and gallery districts where you may cover several kilometres on foot. Keep a refillable water bottle with you, as many venues now have refilling stations, especially during fitness-focused events.

Dubai’s roads will be busier than usual because of the Dubai Run on Sunday morning; Sheikh Zayed Road will be closed from midnight until late morning for thousands of participants. Expect diversions around Downtown, Business Bay and certain bridges, which can cause congestion on older parallel routes. Major events at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre and large venues near the Marina may also affect parking availability and taxi waiting times on Saturday night. Where possible, use the metro to reach Downtown, Dubai Marina and Business Bay, and rely on taxis or ride-hailing from hubs near festival sites. For Global Village and other outer-city attractions, leaving before the absolute closing time can save you from long queues at the car park exits. Whatever you choose to do, book tickets and registrations as early as you can, because November weekends often sell out quickly across the city.

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