The city is a treasure trove of incredible experiences, some soon to end and some just getting started. Movies of all topics and genres are taking over unusual venues, whether it's Dubai’s artsy independent film theatre or out by the beach. From live shows to light shows–here are the top seven things to do in Dubai this weekend.
Watch the rise of a political icon
You don’t just turn into one of the most famous political figures overnight. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s legend spread from the high ranks of the US judiciary to popular culture with unexpected ease, yet even many of her fans don’t know how she became who she was. See the rise of a feminist figure with interviews by President Bill Clinton, Gloria Steinem and more in the award-winning documentary, RGB, now showing at Cinema Akil.
When: 17 January, 7:30pm
Where: Cinema Akil
Jam out to live music
Dubai Design District is always trending, and this January amps up the vibe with d3 Unplugged–weekend jam sessions at the square. This Saturday’s set stars new age Iraqi R&B songbird Shebani bookended by Oman’s homegrown DJ Don’t Touch My Hair – aka Fatma Al Bakry. It’s the second-to-last show of the month, so catch it before the clock on this series stops ticking.
When: 19 January
Where: Dubai Design District
Meet the sultans of Sufi rock
Pakistanis weren’t the only ones to rejoice when Junoon announced their reunion tour after 13 years. The band attracted fans around the world for their distinct musical style, blending classic rock with folk elements and Sufi-inspired lyrics. Their discography was versatile, ranging from powerful ballads like ‘Ghoom Thana’ to the patriotic anthem ‘Jazba Junoon’. They are dropping by Dubai on this highly anticipated tour for a show at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.
When: 18 January
Where: Dubai Duty Free Stadium
Kite flying fun for all
Kites will deck out the sky above Al Mamzar Park this weekend for the 2nd official International Kite Fest. Bring along the whole family to fly colourful kites and win exciting competitions. Kids can enjoy kite-making workshops, along with free face painting, henna and more. Activities, food stalls and live music–there’s no reason not to check out this breathtakingly vibrant celebration.
When: 18 February
Where: Al Mamzar Park
Explore a dynamic art display
Burj Park Plaza recently became the temporary home of six kaleidoscopic light structures by George Tellos, a Frankfurt and Athens-based lighting designer. Titled Light Art DXB, the structures manipulate light via reflections and represent how colours transform the city around us. It’s a moving sight for all, celebrating its stunning position right in front of Burj Khalifa.
When: Until 13 February
Where: Burj Park Plaza
Buckle up in endless laughter
Biswa Kalyan Rath rose to fame as one-half of the two faces behind the hysterical viral hit clips, “Pretentious Movie Reviews.” His star has only risen, ranking him among India’s top comics to watch out for. He recently released his own stand-up special, Biswa Mast Aadmi, which pairs his usual witticisms with calculated quips to have audiences roaring in laughter. Expect nothing less this weekend, at the comedy night he’s headlining at Emirates International School.
When: 18 January
Where: Emirates Theatre, Emirates International School
Watch a movie under the stars
Urban Entertainment is bringing the thrill of movie-going to the great outdoors with Urban Outdoor Cinema. Taking place at the Beach Lawn at Habtoor Grand, the tri-weekly movie nights are showcasing epic films until April. This weekend sees none other than Ang Lee’s stunning Life of Pi projected on the big screen. Based on the eponymous book by Yann Martel, the award-winning film tells the story of a young boy stranded at sea with a tiger, where fact starts to blend with fiction.
When: 19 January
Where: Habtoor Grand
