Best things to do in Dubai this weekend (15-16 November, 2025)
Dubai’s autumn weekends mix outdoor adrenaline and indoor culture. The forecast for mid-November shows daytime highs around 31 °C and cooler evenings near 18 °C with almost no rain, so you can plan long hours outside. Beaches and theme parks are still popular since the sea is around 28 °C, while cultural venues and concerts offer air-conditioned comfort. Roads near festival sites and sporting venues get crowded, so allow extra travel time or use the metro when possible. Below is a curated weekend itinerary for Dubai with activities for every mood and age.
Saturday Morning — 15 November 2025
Thrissur Pooram Festival at Zabeel Park
Arrive early at Zabeel Park for the Middle East’s take on Kerala’s Thrissur Pooram; the gates open around 10:00 AM and cultural performances start before noon. Expect over 125 percussionists, robotic elephants and parades celebrating Indian heritage. Families and culture lovers will enjoy traditional art forms like Panchari Melam and Kudamattam; tickets include park entry and cost around AED 25–40, while children under three enter free. Plan to spend at least three hours exploring, and note that parking fills up quickly – coming by metro (Al Jafiliya station) or taxi helps.
AURA Skypool Tri in the Sky
Fitness enthusiasts can greet sunrise at AURA Skypool on Palm Tower for a one-of-a-kind triathlon on Saturday morning. Participants swim in the world’s highest 360° infinity pool before cycling on stationary bikes and finishing with a run on treadmills overlooking the city. Registration (~AED 350) is mandatory as spaces are limited. Arrive by 6:00 AM to check in; lockers and towels are provided, and the event wraps by mid-morning so you still have a full day ahead.
The Music Run at Meydan Racecourse
At Meydan Racecourse, runners of all ages can enjoy a 5 km music-infused run followed by a festival atmosphere. Pick up bibs from 8:00 AM, stretch to live DJ sets and then jog through tunnels of music. The finish-line village has food trucks and family-friendly games. Registration costs about AED 150 and includes a T-shirt; plan to be done by lunchtime. Car-pooling is recommended because large crowds are expected.
Arabian Warrior at Dubai Festival City
If you prefer mud and obstacles to running, head to Dubai Festival City for the Arabian Warrior event as part of Dubai Fitness Challenge. Participants crawl, climb and sprint through various challenges from 9:00 AM to early afternoon; there are separate waves for kids and adults. Tickets start around AED 200, and there are showers on site. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and bring a change for the mall afterwards.
Saturday Afternoon — 15 November 2025
IMG Worlds of Adventure
For an adrenaline rush with kids, visit IMG Worlds of Adventure off Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The indoor theme park opens at 12:00 PM on Saturdays and stays open until 11:00 PM. Tickets are about AED 345 for adults with discounts for children; the park’s Marvel and Cartoon Network zones delight younger visitors, while the Lost Valley offers roller-coasters. Allocate at least four hours and consider arriving early afternoon to avoid evening queues.
Dubai Miracle Garden
The Miracle Garden reopens for the winter season and is perfect for a leisurely walk amid 150 million flowers. On weekends it operates from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM and tickets cost around AED 95 for adults (children under three are free). Arrive mid-afternoon to catch the golden-hour light on the floral displays and stay until dark when the garden is illuminated. Plan a two-hour visit and wear comfortable shoes; parking is available but the area can get congested, so taxi drop-offs are convenient.
Museum of the Future
Escape the heat and explore Dubai’s most talked-about cultural landmark. The Museum of the Future opens daily from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM and features immersive exhibits on climate, wellness and space travel. General admission is AED 149, while children under four enter for free. Pre-booking is recommended; each ticket has a timed entry, so aim for a 2:00 PM slot to avoid morning crowds. Allow two hours inside and visit the rooftop terrace for city views.
Global Village Opening Weekend
Global Village Season 30, hosting over 90 cultures, runs daily from 4:00 PM until midnight on weekdays and until 1:00 AM on weekends. Entry costs AED 25 on weekdays and AED 30 on weekends with free admission for children under three and seniors. Wander through country pavilions, sample street food and shop for handicrafts. Tuesdays are family-only days, but Saturday welcomes everyone, and there are live shows every hour. Avoid driving at peak time; instead use RTA buses 102, 103, 104 or 106 from metro stations.
Saturday Evening — 15 November 2025
Okean Elzy Live at The Agenda
Ukrainian rock band Okean Elzy return to Dubai on Saturday night with a concert at The Agenda in Dubai Media City. Doors open at 7:00 PM and tickets start from around AED 300. The standing arena suits energetic fans, while a seated balcony caters to families or couples. Plan to arrive by 6:30 PM to find parking or use the tram to Media City. Expect a two-hour set including hits like Obiymy; merchandise stalls and food kiosks operate inside the venue.
Terra Solis presents Anfisa Letyago
Dance under the stars at Terra Solis, where techno DJ Anfisa Letyago headlines a desert party from late afternoon into the night. The venue is off Exit 29 on Jebel Ali–Lehbab Road; shuttles operate from Dubai for those without cars. Gates open at 4:00 PM with music running past midnight, and general admission is about AED 200. Bring a jacket – desert evenings can be cool – and expect a laid-back crowd with lounge seating and food trucks.
Adriatique Present X at Dubai Harbour
For a waterfront experience, Swiss duo Adriatique bring their revolutionary Present X show back to Dubai Harbour. The open-air stage sits beside the marina, offering skyline views; doors open at 5:00 PM with sets from local DJs before the headliners. Tickets start around AED 250, and the show often sells out, so book in advance. Use public transport or ride-share because parking at the harbour is limited.
Travis Scott in Abu Dhabi (optional)
If you’re willing to travel, Houston rapper Travis Scott brings his Circus Maximus Tour to Etihad Park in Abu Dhabi on Saturday night. The concert is about an hour’s drive from Dubai; gates open at 6:00 PM and showtime is 9:00 PM. Tickets begin around AED 350 and the show will likely finish around midnight. Car-pool or use inter-city buses to Yas Island to avoid parking queues.
Sunday Morning — 16 November 2025
Emirates NBD Unity Run at Expo City
Start Sunday with a feel-good run supporting People of Determination. The Unity Run at Al Forsan Park in Expo City offers 3 km, 5 km and 10 km routes; entry fees (about AED 75) support charitable causes. The start line buzzes from 7:00 AM, and there’s accessible parking and shuttle service. Bring sunscreen and water; despite cooler weather, the sun rises quickly. Finishers receive medals and can enjoy breakfast at nearby food stalls.
Runway Run 2025 at Dubai Airshow
Ever wondered what it feels like to run on a runway? Sign up for the Runway Run taking place at Dubai Airshow on Sunday morning. The 5 km route uses the airshow runway; participants check in by 6:30 AM and the run begins at 7:00 AM. Spaces are limited and cost around AED 250, but the entry includes a T-shirt and access to the airshow display area afterwards. Security checks are strict, so bring ID and avoid large bags.
Plus500 City Half Marathon at DIFC
Runners can also tackle the Plus500 City Half Marathon at DIFC’s Gate Village on Sunday. Distances include 5 km, 10 km and 21 km routes; the half-marathon starts at 6:00 AM. Registration (around AED 180–220) includes race timing and a medal. The course winds through DIFC’s skyscrapers, so expect stunning sunrise views, and there are water stations every 2 km. Finishers can relax at cafés in Gate Avenue afterwards.
Sunday Afternoon — 16 November 2025
MOJO Moments Season 2 at Firdaus Studio
For a laid-back afternoon, attend MOJO Moments Season 2 at Firdaus Studio in Expo City. The session starts at 4:00 PM and features an intimate performance by singer Hamsika Iyer with composer Ajay Singha followed by networking over refreshments. With only 120 tickets available, the event feels exclusive and costs around AED 250, including light bites. Plan to arrive by 3:30 PM to explore the futuristic Expo City district before the show.
DIFC Art Nights
DIFC Art Nights closes on Sunday with interactive art installations, live music and food stalls at Gate Village. The event runs from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Admission is free and it’s perfect for art lovers or couples. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready to stroll between galleries and open-air displays; parking at DIFC fills quickly so consider the Financial Centre metro.
Global Village Return Visit
If you couldn’t see every pavilion on Saturday, return to Global Village on Sunday. Sundays are quieter, and the gates open at 4:00 PM. Entry remains AED 25 for the weeknight, making it a budget-friendly way to end the weekend. Catch the fireworks at 9:00 PM and explore countries you missed previously. Buses and taxis remain the best transport options.
Sunday Evening — 16 November 2025
Bassem Youssef Live at Coca-Cola Arena
Egyptian-American comedian Bassem Youssef brings his satirical stand-up to Coca-Cola Arena on Sunday evening. Doors open at 7:00 PM and the show starts at 8:00 PM; tickets range from AED 195 for balcony seats to AED 450 for VIP. Expect sharp political humour and a lively crowd; the show lasts about two hours. Arrive early to clear security and enjoy dinner at City Walk before the performance.
Unity Run and Art Nights After-Party at Expo City
End the weekend by celebrating your morning achievements at the Unity Run’s after-party in Expo City. Food stalls, live music and family activities continue until 9:00 PM. Admission is free for runners and AED 30 for supporters. It’s a relaxed atmosphere with picnic lawns and sunset views, so bring a blanket and enjoy the cool evening breeze.
Alternative Ideas
Breakfast – Brasserie 2.0, Le Royal Meridien
Treat yourself to a lavish start at Brasserie 2.0 in Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. The restaurant’s Royal Breakfast is served from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM and includes pastries, egg stations and fresh juices starting from AED 155 per person. Reserve a table if you prefer terrace seating; the venue is family-friendly and high chairs are available.
Coffee – The Espresso Lab
At Nad Al Sheba Mall, The Espresso Lab specialises in single-origin brews and creative pour-overs. Open from 7:00 AM to midnight on weekends, it’s perfect for a late-morning pick-me-up or a post-dinner cortado. Order the signature Spanish latte with a small almond croissant; seats fill up between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
Lunch or Dinner – Din Tai Fung
For an unfussy meal, head to Din Tai Fung in Dubai Mall where dumplings take centre stage. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:30 PM and a meal for two costs around AED 140–160. Best-selling dishes include the chicken xiao long bao (AED 39) and shrimp & chicken wontons (AED 36). Expect queues at peak dinner hours, but service is efficient and there’s a children’s menu.
Family Water Fun – Wild Wadi Water Park
Join the wave at Wild Wadi Water Park near Burj Al Arab. The park operates 10:00 AM–6:00 PM daily and offers slides, a lazy river and a toddler area. Tickets start from about AED 295, with discounts for UAE residents. Follow lifeguard instructions and supervise children closely; outside food isn’t allowed but there are numerous cafés.
Nature & Sport – Hatta Kayak
Escape to the mountains for kayaking or pedal-boating at Hatta Dam. The facility opens daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM and has more than 100 kayaks. Prices range from AED 60 for single-seat kayaks to AED 120 for family boats; tickets are sold on a first-come basis – reservations aren’t required. The drive from Dubai takes about 90 minutes, and roads are paved; bring a hat and plenty of water.
Culture – Museum of the Future
If you miss it on Saturday, the Museum of the Future also fits into the alternative list because of its immersive exhibits exploring sustainable living and technology. It opens from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM and tickets are AED 149, with free entry for children under four. Allocate at least two hours to fully engage with the interactive experiences.
Cinema – Catch a Film at VOX or Novo Cinemas
Dubai’s multiplexes host new releases mid-November. VOX Cinemas at Mall of the Emirates and Novo Cinemas at Dubai Festival City will be screening thrillers like Now You See Me: Now You Don’t and sci-fi action Predator: Badlands. Showtimes typically run from 1:00 PM through midnight, with matinees around 1:30 PM–4:00 PM and evening shows from 7:00 PM–10:30 PM. Tickets range from AED 45–75 depending on seat type. Arrive 20 minutes early to pick up popcorn and settle in; some screenings may sell out during the weekend.
Other Ideas – Desert Safari or Al Seef Promenade
For something different, book an afternoon desert safari departing around 3:00 PM from various pick-up points. Packages (from AED 200 per adult) include dune bashing, camel rides, henna painting and a barbecue dinner under the stars. If you prefer staying in the city, stroll along the historical Al Seef promenade on Dubai Creek; cafés and heritage houses line the water, and entry is free. Both options provide a relaxed pace after a busy weekend.
Weather, Transport and Safety Tips
Expect mostly sunny skies with daytime highs near 31 °C and cool evenings around 18 °C, with almost no chance of rain. Wear light layers, sunglasses and sun‑block during the day, but bring a light jacket for desert venues like Terra Solis. Beaches and outdoor events will be busy, so arrive early for parking or use Dubai Metro, tram and RTA buses; for example, Global Village is served by buses 102, 103, 104 and 106. Reserve tickets for concerts and sporting events ahead of time, as many have limited capacity. Most venues have increased security and traffic controls this weekend, so plan extra travel time and carry ID. Enjoy Dubai’s vibrant weekend responsibly and embrace both its energetic events and tranquil escapes.
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