55 things to do in Dubai over the long Eid Al Adha weekend

From family fun to sunset sips, staycations and more, here’s how to make the most of the long Eid Al Adha weekend in Dubai

The long Eid Al Adha weekend is your cue to switch off the routine and enjoy everything else Dubai has to offer. Whether you’re planning family-friendly days out, hunting down free things to do, booking a last-minute staycation, or finally ticking off attractions before they pause for summer, there’s plenty to fill the days.

Here are 55 amazing things to do in Dubai over the long Eid Al Adha weekend

Pack the bags and enjoy a staycation

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa 

Peace, privacy, and desert magic are the vibes at Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai. Set among sweeping dunes, the resort’s villas combine elegant Arabian design with modern comfort, each featuring a private, temperature-controlled pool. You can enjoy full-board dining and two complimentary daily desert activities – from wildlife drives to camel treks – while a Dhs200 spa credit offers a quiet moment between adventure and stillness. With 20% off secluded villas, it’s the ultimate desert getaway where time slows and the landscape takes centre stage.

Where: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain -Dubai Road, Margab
Cost: Dhs1,632 per night
Contact: @almaha_resort

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

This is a standout choice for Dubai staycations if you want a mix of luxury and comfort. Soft sand-coloured buildings sit among palm-fringed gardens and pools, all leading down to a private stretch of the Arabian Gulf. Rooms and suites are elegant, with contemporary Arabian-style balconies and loungers perfect for morning coffee or evening wind-down, with full sea views. From dinner, you’ll find some of Dubai’s best restaurants, and even the city’s top bars to enjoy a sip, or two. You can also switch off completely with a spa treatment.

Where: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 2
Contact: 04 270 7777, @fsdubai

Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection

This Eid, embrace the island-style life and escape to Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts. Here, tropical charm meets family-friendly experiences and the special resident offer only sweetens the deal. There’s 20% off room rates and children aged 12 and under can enjoy a complimentary stay when sharing their parents’ meal plan. There’s plenty to keep you entertained from lagoon-style pools, the scenic lazy river and Polynesian-inspired activities at the Kids Club and Tiki House.

Where: Dubai Parks & Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road
Contact: 04 810 9999, @lapitahoteldubai

Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah 

Looking for a beachfront Eid Al Adha stay the whole family can enjoy? Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah nails it. Set on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, the resort balances space, comfort, and fun for both adults and kids. Spend your mornings on the sand, afternoons by the pool, and evenings sampling dishes across the resort’s restaurants – all with the freedom to shape the weekend your way. Kids stay and dine free, with full access to the Kids Club to keep little ones entertained while you unwind. Adults, you can enjoy a Dhs150 food and beverage credit redeemable at Cucina, MYAMI Pool Bar, or Bal Harbour Beach.

Where: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah
When: Available throughout the Eid holiday period
Cost: From Dhs650 per night (half board)
Contact: marriottresortpalmjumeirah.com

Vida Hotels and Resorts

This Eid Al Adha, Vida makes it easy to enjoy a city stay without any rush. Take your mornings slow, lounge by the pool, or pop out for dinner. Rooms are comfy and upgraded, breakfasts are relaxed, and little perks like kids staying free, late check-out, and dining savings make everything feel effortless. It’s a long weekend that’s flexible, easy, and just made to enjoy.

Where: Several locations around Dubai and the UAE
Contact: @vidahotels

W Dubai – Mina Seyahi 

If you’re craving a seaside escape where everything’s taken care of, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi is calling. With a minimum two-night stay, this all-inclusive package lets you wake up to uninterrupted Arabian Sea views and move freely between private beaches, six pools, and world-class spa facilities. Over 20 restaurants and bars offer endless dining options, with breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, tea, coffee, and ice cream included throughout your stay. It’s the ultimate city-meets-beach escape where everything you need is just steps away.

Where: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, Dubai Marina 
Cost: Dhs1,600 per night
Contact: @wdubaiminaseyahi

For more staycation ideas, head here. 

Family-friendly fun

Go behind the scenes at The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Take the family on an underwater adventure this Eid Al Adha with the Behind the Scenes Tour at The Lost Chambers Aquarium. This special experience gives guests a rare look at areas usually closed to the public, including the Fish Hospital, Food Preparation Room and Shark Nursery. You’ll also get to watch marine experts care for more than 65,000 sea creatures and catch a special fish feeding session at the Ambassador Lagoon.

Where: The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis, The Palm
When: Check online at aquaventureworld.com for available tour slots
Contact: @aquaventureworld

Play neon mini golf at 3D Blacklight Minigolf

Add a little neon fun to your Eid Al Adha plans with a family game at 3D Blacklight Minigolf in JBR. This glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf experience is packed with colourful UV lighting, fun obstacles and themed courses that both kids and adults will love. Expect plenty of laughs, tricky shots and Instagram-worthy moments along the way.

Where: JBR, Bahar Plaza Level, Jumeirah Beach Residence
When: Monday to Thursday 1pm to 1am, Friday to Sunday 11am to 1am
Contact: 04 5657 621, @3d_blacklight_minigolf_dubai

Spend the day gaming at Scorpion Club

For a fun-filled family day out this Eid Al Adha, head to Scorpion Club at Cityland Mall. The entertainment venue is packed with arcade games, trampolines, air hockey and plenty of activities to keep kids (and adults) entertained for hours. Entry is free too, so you can simply pay for the games and activities you want to try.

Where: Cityland Mall, next go Global Village Dubai
When: Daily, 11am to midnight
Contact: 04 557 4766, @scorpionclubdxb

Play Pac-Man in real life

This PacMan Live Experience turns the iconic arcade game into a larger-than-life adventure. All thrill-seekers and gamers are invited to step inside the legendary PAC-MAN universe, powered by augmented reality and state-of-the-art digital projections. You will find yourself dashing through a full-scale PAC-MAN-style maze, collecting Power Pellets and dodging digital ghosts in an immersive environment of vibrant visuals, neon lights, and sound effects. You can either bring a group or go yourself; the 30-minute experience mirrors the beloved arcade original version.

Location: Al Quoz, Al Qouz Industrial Area 1
When: Timings vary
Cost: From Dhs112
Contact: @pacmanuae

Have plenty of fun at Adventure Island

Step into Adventure Island, Dubai’s ultimate indoor playground for adrenaline seekers. Tackle rope courses, laser mazes, and team challenges that test your speed, balance, and reflexes. With fast-paced obstacles and competitive fun around every corner, it’s a heart-racing, rainproof adventure that turns a gloomy day into a non-stop action zone.

Where: City Centre Deira and Jumeirah Beach Residences
When: Deira – daily 10am to 12am, JBR – daily 12pm to 12am
Cost: Several packages available
Contact: @adventure.island.ae

Race with loved ones at BattleKart

Another super fun option to add to your indoor activities in Dubai is BattleKart. For those of you who feel the need for speed, head to BattleKart for a dose of electric karting, video games and augmented reality. You’ll get to drive around different circuits and try different game modes which are all projected directly onto the floor, allowing you to interact with the scenery and other players. It’s fast, competitive, and slightly chaotic in the best way possible.

From Monday to Saturday, it’s Dhs160 for one game, Dhs130 for the second and then Dhs100 per game that follows. On Saturday, one game is Dhs200, the second Dhs170, and then it’s Dhs130 per game you play.

Where: Dubai Investment Park
When: Mon to Thurs 4pm to 12am, Fri 4pm to 2am, and Sat 2pm to 2am
Cost: Prices from Dhs160 (weekend prices vary)
Contact: battlekart.com

Defy gravity at iFly Dubai

This is possibly one of the coolest indoor activities in Dubai to try. At iFLY Dubai, you can take to the skies without leaving the ground (kinda…). Step into the vertical wind tunnel and feel the rush of free-fall as you twist, spin, and hover like a pro. It’s heart-racing, gravity-defying fun that lets you fly indoors.

Where: City Centre Mirdif
When: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 10pm, Fri 12pm to 12am, Sat 12pm to 11pm
Cost: Varying packages and deals avail
Contact: @iflydubai

Raise your heart rate at The Storm Coaster 

Love massive thrills? The Storm Coaster should shoot to the top of your indoor activities to try in Dubai list. In short, The Storm Coaster is a thrilling, heart-in-your-throat type of fun. It’s the first-of-its-kind indoor coaster combining a vertical drop and an immersive pre-ride experience. The aptly named coaster places guests in the exciting world of storm chasing. What’s storm-chasing? Well, it’s the pursuit of any severe weather phenomenon such as hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, etc. Daredevils will be lifted high above the Dubai skyline and then will be plunged into the heart of an epic mega-storm using real-world footage with cinematic special effects. Do note riders need to be at least 130cm in height to hop onboard.

Where: Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills
When: Daily from 10am
Cost: Dhs75 for single ride
Contact: @thestormcoaster

Stay cool at Ski Dubai

Think icy indoor activities in Dubai don’t exist. Think again. Ski Dubai is arguably the coolest attraction in the city spanning 22,500 square metres in the Mall of the Emirates. Home to loads of activities, including a ski slope for skiers and snowboarders, a ‘Snow Park’, Zorb balls, penguin encounters and more. Ski school is available to help you learn the basics. Afterwards, warm up with a hot chocolate at the Avalanche Café. Costs vary depending on your choice of activity. PS. Check out our encounter with the penguins, complete with a full dining experience, here.

Where: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
When: Open daily
Cost: From Dhs160
Contact: 600 599 905, skidxb.com

Dirham-saving indoor attractions only over Eid Al Adha

Immerse yourself in art at Arte Museum

Conceived and produced by Korean digital design company d’strict, Arte Museum at Dubai Mall is a must-visit for art lovers, or anyone looking to add a little magic to their feed. Inside the expansive space, art, light and sound come together across 14 immersive zones, each more visually striking than the last. Little ones will love the interactive elements, where their creations are brought to life in real time. The experience ends on a soothing note at the tea bar, set within a floral-inspired immersive environment. Over the Eid holidays in Dubai, this attraction is offering a 40% discount on tickets until May 31, 2026.

Where: Arte Museum, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
When: Eid Al Adha offer from May 23 to 31
Deal: 40% off on ticket prices
Contact: dubai.artemuseum.com/tickets

Go snap happy at AYA Universe

This Eid Al Adha, head to one of the prettiest and most Instagrammable attractions in Dubai, AYA Universe. For a limited time only, from May 22 to 31, enjoy a Special Family pass for four for the price of three. At AYA Universe, you can spend hours exploring a whole different world across different interactive spaces, from glowing gardens to digital landscapes, mirrored rooms and large-scale light installations.

When: AYA Universe, Wafi City Mall, Dubai
When: Eid Al Adha offer from May 23 to 31
Offer: Get four for the price of three
Contact: @ayauniverse

Game and play at Flayva

Flayva at Al Ghurair Centre is teaming up with Glitch for a fun ‘Eat & Play’ experience. Dine at Flayva and you can unlock arcade games, be rewarded with Play Points and enjoy a free game of Laser Tag for up to four people, and even a game of bowling. To give you just a taste of what Flayva offers, there’s Simply Indian, B60 Burgers, Tasty Shawarma and more. Want the details? Any spend at Flayva gets you two free arcade games; a Dhs50 spend gets you 50 Play Points and a 50% discount on selected attractions, while a Dhs100 spend gets you 50% off selected attractions and a free laser tag mission.

Explore immersive worlds at House of Hype

This Eid Al Adha, House of Hype in Dubai Mall turns into a playful, high-energy adventure designed to be experienced together with family and friends. There’s a lot to unpack across 25 immersive worlds, all packed with hidden surprises, gaming-inspired experiences, viral photo moments, and more. For a family pass, enjoy an Eid Family Pass offer for Dhs449 for four or Dhs149 per person. On top of that, roaming performers, spontaneous moments and immersive shows unfold across the attraction.

Where: Fountain Views, Dubai Mall
When: Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 12am 
Cost: Dhs449 for four people, or Dhs149 per adult
Contact: @houseofhype.dxb

Step into tomorrow at Museum of the Future

One of the most recognisable landmarks in Dubai, the stunning Museum of the Future is divided into seven levels, with each giving a glimpse into what the world will look like 50 years from now. Both little ones and adults will have ample opportunity to interact with and learn. Over Eid, you can save your dirhams because little ones can enter for free, while adults pay Dhs169 per person.

Where: Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre 1 
When: Daily 9.30am to 9pm
Cost: From Dhs169 per adult, children enter free over Eid Al Adha
Contact: @museumofthefuture

Outdoor attractions

If you don’t mind a few beads of sweat, spend some time over Eid Al Adha to visit these popular outdoor attractions as they close their doors at the end of May.

Dubai Miracle Garden

If you think Dubai is all about desert dunes and palm trees, Dubai Miracle Garden will make you question that theory. Dubai Miracle Garden in Al Barsha South 3 is the city’s most colourful garden, home to over 150 million flowers. But it’s more than just your typical garden. The floral displays come in the form of stunning floral arches, hearts, castles, and even an A380 Emirates plane. The garden remains open only during winter and closes in the summer as the temperature is too warm. The garden has added in new floral displays and exhibits for this season, which means you can always return and see something new.

PS. Don’t forget to visit Dubai Butterfly Garden, which is located within Dubai Miracle Garden. It consists of 10 custom-built domes filled with thousands of winged creatures of different varieties and sizes. Ticket prices are Dhs40 per adult and Dhs29 per child.

Where: Al Barsha South 3, Al Barsha
When: Daily 9am to 9pm
Cost: Dhs100 per adult; children under 12 go free until May 31
Contact: 04 422 890, dubaimiraclegarden.com, dubaibutterflygarden.com

Global Village Dubai

Global Village Dubai is one of those outdoor attractions you can’t miss. Year after year, Global Village Dubai draws in over 10 million guests, making it one of Dubai’s most popular outdoor attractions. Think of it as one big shopping mall under the night sky, but it offers items from all over the world. Besides the endless kiosks selling clothes, jewellery, shoes, grocery items, homeware, cosmetics, perfumes and more, you can enjoy a range of cuisines spanning the globe. To top it all off, there are cultural shows, roaming entertainment, and other fun zones the whole family will love.

Where: Dubailand, Dubai
When: 4pm to 1am
Cost: Dhs25 per person
Contact: 04 362 4114, globalvillage.ae

Dubai Safari Park

Dubai Safari Park is home to about 3,000 animals, from tigers, gibbons, moon bears, lions, elephants, giraffes, camels, Arabian oryx, Arabian wolves, mountain gazelles, and many more. Set across expansive habitats, it brings together wildlife from around the world alongside native species of the region in one immersive space. Over the summer, the park closes its doors to protect the health of the animals (and visitors, of course), so go visit the animals before they go into hibernation mode.

Where: Al Warqa, Hatta Road
When: 9am to 6pm
Cost: General admission prices from Dhs50 for adults, additional packages and season passes are also available
Contact: 800 900, dubaisafari.ae

Dubai Garden Glow

If you love all things bright, you will love Dubai Garden Glow. The outdoor attraction relocated within Zabeel Park, moving next to Dubai Frame with all new attractions, Dinosaur Park and Fantasy Park. At Fantasy Park, visitors can discover huge, whimsical and Instagrammable structures at every turn, featuring a mix of lush nature blended with imaginative creativity. And Dino fans, you’re in for a treat at the Dinosaur Park – home to a thrilling collection of lifelike animatronic creatures. Don’t worry – they don’t bite, so you can snap the perfect photo and even pick up a few fun educational facts along the way.

Where: Zabeel Park near Al Jafiliya Gate 3, Area A, Dubai
When: Open daily 10am to 9pm
Cost: Dhs73.5 (includes Dinosaur Park and Fantasy Park)
Contact: @dubaigardenglow

Beat the heat after dark

Night swims with skyline views

Cool off after dark with a nighttime swim high above the city at this iconic infinity pool. Overlooking Palm Jumeirah and Dubai’s glittering skyline, the adults-only spot is perfect for late-night lounging, relaxed swims and snapping some seriously good photos.

Where: Aura Skypool, The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah
When: Sunday and Monday 6am to 9pm, Tuesday to Thursday, 6am to 11pm, Friday and Saturday, 6:30am to 11pm
Contact: 04 566 2121, @auraskypool.dubai

Take a dip at the beach

The Dubai municipality has opened a number of public night beaches kitted out for night swimming. Located in Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3 and Umm Suqeim 1, these 800-metre stretches of shores have been fitted with lighting systems and safety enhancements that allow for 24-hour swimming. The beaches are open 24 hours a day. Ladies, if you want a ‘gals-only-night’, head to Al Mamzar Beach Park. Yep, that’s the one that just got a cool glow-up.

Watch the fountains dance at night

One of Dubai’s most iconic attractions is even better at night. Head to Downtown Dubai to watch the dancing fountain shows set against the backdrop of Burj Khalifa, then stroll around the area once the temperatures cool down.

Where: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
When: Evening shows daily from 6pm
Contact: @emaardubai

Take a late-night walk around the marina

Dubai Marina comes alive after sunset, making it one of the best spots for an evening walk. Wander along the waterfront, admire the skyline, grab an ice cream or coffee, and watch the yachts pass by while enjoying the cooler nighttime weather.

Go kayaking in a clear boat

You’ve probably seen this pop up on your Instagram or TikTok, so why not give it a shot yourself? Pick the night kayak experience and you will get to enjoy the experience in a clear kayak under the stars. The experience lasts an hour and can be booked here.

Catch the sunset with sips

Above Eleven

With much of Palm Jumeirah low-lying, finding a lofty perch to admire the sunset isn’t easy. So when Bangkok-born Above Eleven opened on the 14th-floor rooftop of Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, it instantly became the go-to spot for picture-perfect skyline views of Dubai. Above Eleven is a box-ticker for sunset cocktails, laid-back vibes, and flawless service.

Where: Above Eleven Dubai, Rooftop, West Palm Beach, Jumeirah Marriott Resort, Palm Jumeirah
When: Thursday to Saturday 5pm to 1am
Contact: 04 666 1420, @abovelevendubai

Attiko

On the 31st floor of W Dubai, Mina Seyahi, Attiko is all about groovy nights and some of the best sunset views in the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Palm Jumeirah, while DJs and live music set the mood. The pan-Asian menu pairs well with the skyline, and whether you’re here for an early-evening drink or a late-night scene, the vibe keeps shifting in all the best ways.

Where: W Dubai, Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina|
When: Sunday to Friday from 6pm to 2am, and Saturdays 1pm to 4pm, 6pm to 2am
Contact: 04 350 9983, @attikodubai

CÉ LA VI

Located on level 54 of Address Sky View, CÉ LA VI is known for some of the most stunning views in the city. The terrace looks straight onto the Burj Khalifa, making it the perfect spot for that picture-perfect shot – if you angle your phone just right. But it’s more than just a backdrop. From the Dubai Fountains dancing below to the electric atmosphere as the night unfolds, the setting is pure spectacle. Even getting there is an experience, with a private glass elevator ride that whisks you up from the ground floor, leaving Sheikh Zayed Road twinkling beneath you.

Where: CÉ LA VI, Address Sky View Address, Tower 2, Level 54, Address Sky View Hotel
When: Daily from 12pm to 3am
Contact: 04 582 6111, @celaviedubai

S Bar, SLS Dubai

On the 71st floor of SLS Dubai, S Bar sets the bar high. With stunning views stretching across the city and a sleek, modern vibe, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re on cloud 9. The cocktails here are well-crafted, and the atmosphere is effortlessly chic. It’s a space where you can relax, enjoy some great bites, and feel like you’ve found your new favourite hangout in the sky.

Where: S Bar, SLS Dubai, Business Bay
When: Daily from 8am to 1am
Contact: 04 607 0757, @slsbardubai

SUSHISAMBA

Two elevators, 230 metres, and suddenly, you’re dining above the city. SUSHISAMBA, perched on the 51st floor of The St. Regis Dubai, offers an all-encompassing view of Palm Jumeirah, Ain Dubai, and beyond. The design is as much a spectacle as the setting, with intricate woodwork inspired by Japanese and Brazilian weaving traditions. At the heart of it all? A Robata grill and sushi bar bringing fire, flavour, and a front-row seat to the action.

Where: SUSHISAMBA Dubai, Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah
When: Timings vary
Contact: 04 278 4888, @sushisambadubai

The Penthouse

This award-winning rooftop lounge on the 16th floor of FIVE Palm Jumeirah is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the view. Known for its electric nightlife and Japanese fusion menu, The Penthouse blends city lights, deep house beats, and a crowd that knows exactly why they’re here. Come for the sunset, stay for the DJs, and don’t be surprised if you leave way later than planned.

Where: The Penthouse Dubai, Rooftop lounge & Nightclub, Five Palm Jumeirah
When: Daily from 4pm to 3am
Contact: 052 900 4868, @thepenthousedubai

ZETA Seventy Seven

High above the city on the 77th floor of Address Beach Resort, ZETA Seventy Seven serves Asian-inspired seafood with a side of sky-high views. With a menu built for sharing, signature cocktails, and Dubai’s skyline stretching out in every direction, from Ain Dubai to Palm Jumeirah, it’s rooftop dining at its finest.

Where: ZETA Seventy Seven, Address Beach Resort, Dubai Marina
When: Daily, 9am to 2am
Contact: 04 879 8866, @zetaseventyseven

Find your zen

Artisan Bakery

This neighbourhood spot is perfect for a laid-back morning. There’s a quiet little garden out front, a solid bakery menu, and good coffee to keep you there longer than planned.

Where: Umm Suqeim 1
When: Daily, 7am to 10pm
Contact: 04 338 3344. @artisanbakers.ae

Akari Wellness

One of Dubai’s newest wellness spots, Akari Wellness features Red Light Therapy, a treatment we’re seeing everywhere and already a standout on their menu. This high-tech session helps improve skin tone and collagen, reduce inflammation and joint pain, speed up muscle recovery, boost circulation and energy, support hormonal balance, and even enhance sleep and mood. While you’re there, swing by the Brain Bar for a drink packed with adaptogens, botanicals, and superfoods to round off your recovery.

Where: One Central, Precinct Building 2, The Offices 2, One Central, Ground floor
When: Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm
Cost: Dhs400 per session
Contact: @akariwellness

Emirates Bio Farm

If you’re in Dubai over Eid Al Adha, think of this as a little road trip somewhere a little different from the usual scene. Set among the red dunes of Al Shuwaib, Emirates Bio Farm is the UAE’s largest privately owned organic farm – a relaxed escape where you can walk the fields, meet the animals and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce straight from the source.

Where: Al Shiwaib, Al Ain
Contact: emiratesbiofarm.com

Harvest & Co at Dubai Garden Centre

If you like your matcha lattes with a side of monstera, this is the one. Surrounded by a full-blown nursery, Harvest & Co’s greenhouse-style interior is bright, leafy, and ideal for long catch-ups.

Where: Dubai Garden Centre, Al Quoz
When: Daily, 8am to 10pm
Contact: 04 338 8895, @harvestandco.dubai

Longevity Wellness Hub x Museum of the Future

Longevity Wellness Hub has taken Lagree, the high-intensity, low-impact training method, out of the studio and into one of the world’s most iconic buildings. Taking place daily at 8am, 9am, 6pm and 7pm, precision sessions come paired with access to explore the Museum of the Future itself, making this one of Dubai’s most memorable workout experiences. Grip socks required.

Where: Museum of the Future, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
When: Daily, 8am, 9am, 6pm and 7pm
Price: Dhs200 per class (with museum ticket); Dhs850 for five sessions
Book: museumofthefuture.ae

Say hello to nature

Hike the rocky trails of Jebel Hafit Desert Park, where the Bronze Age beehive tombs stand quietly against sweeping mountain views. Hike, cycle or take a camel ride and if you’re feeling indulgent, spend the night under the stars in a Bedouin tent or a glamping bubble dome. Recharge at Green Mubazzarah, Abu Dhabi’s natural hot springs tucked at the foot of Jebel Hafit. Lush gardens and shaded pools make it easy to forget the city buzz you left behind this Eid Al Adha.

Sip and read at Oath Cafe

If your idea of peaceful involves specialty coffee, a book and a quiet café setting, Oath Café is where this vibe is at. Head to Oath Café on Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah for a calm, light-filled space to reset. With minimal interiors, plenty of natural light and a peaceful outdoor nook surrounded by plants, it’s the perfect spot to put your phone down, enjoy a coffee and a homemade sandwich, and take a proper break from the day.

Where: Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah
When: Daily 7.30am to 10pm
Contact: @oath.ae

Stretch at Samadhi Wellness

A popular spot for yoga classes in Dubai, suitable for all schedules and styles, Samadhi Wellness is a yoga studio with plenty of ways to move and recover. After class, head to Samadhi Café, take a swim in the outdoor pool, relax in the sauna, or try an ice bath for a boost. With yoga and wellness all under one roof, it’s a space to stretch, strengthen, and recharge.

Where: 491b Jumeirah St, Jumeirah 3
When: Daily, 7am to 9.30pm – check full schedule at samadhi-wellness.com
Contact: 04 323 5354, @samadhimywellness

Hit pause at Paus

If your idea of a peaceful spot is rooted in wellness and community, Paus is one to visit. Paus is a two-storey wellness villa that feels like its own little world. The space brings together movement, treatments, a café, a garden and wellness studios — with yoga as one of the classes on offer – all under one roof.

Where: Villa 12, Al Reef Villas, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai
When: Daily, 7am to 10pm
Contact: 04 266 5329, @pausclub

Slow down at Seva Experience

If wellness is what you’re seeking this Eid Al Adha, this space in Dubai is the place to be. With yoga, sound healing, meditation and more on offer, Seva Yoga Studio creates the perfect space to reset, with classes for all levels including Kundalini, Vinyasa, Power, Ashtanga and Hatha. After your practice, relax in Seva Café’s lush garden or enjoy plant-based, gluten-free meals at SEVA Table – the first fully plant-based café in the Middle East.

Where: Villa 5 1/B, Street 27B, Jumeirah 1, Jumeirah Beach Road
When: Daily, 9am to 10pm
Contact: @sevaexperience

Visit The Farm

This is possibly one of the prettiest places to eat in Dubai, bringing together lush greenery and calm waterways. If you’re craving fresh air and a more nature-filled setting in the city, this is where you’ll find it. If you’re spending Eid Al Adha in Dubai, this is a great spot to visit for breakfast to start your day off right.

Location: Al Barari
When: Daily, 7:30am to 10:30pm
Contact: 04 392 5660, @thefarmdubai

Free things to do in Dubai

Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue is a haven for art lovers. It’s home to many art galleries showcasing contemporary art. You can visit for the cool vibes alone, and for a fee, there’s Cinema Akil showcasing foreign films and The Junction, where theatre fans get together to watch plays put together by local actors. The cool neighbourhood is also home to Dubai’s first-ever Japanese handroll bar, Kokoro; Nightjar Coffee Roasters; zero-waste upcycle cafe – Kave; the newly opened Window; and many more.

@alserkalavenue

Jameel Arts Centre

Located in the city’s Jaddaf waterfront neighbourhood, Jameel Art Centre is a free-to-enter art space you can visit if you want a dose of culture. There are several exhibitions you can visit that include installations, art, screenings and more. You can even visit the library to read or soak in the views of Dubai Creek.

@jameelartscentre

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Al Jaddaf has a unique and eye-catching structure. It resembles an open book sitting on a rehl (a traditional lectern which holds the Quran). Inside, there are floors with libraries dedicated to different genres such as history, business, art and more, but you will also find conference halls, a children’s play area and an auditorium. It’s free to visit, but book your desired date and time on the MBRL app.

@mbrlae

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat Jumeirah has long been a go-to destination for visitors to Dubai and residents for its bejewelled waterways, stunning views and excellent roster of restaurants. The beautiful attraction includes a maze of shops and stalls in the winding walkways you can explore before you visit the waterways. Don’t miss checking out the unobstructed views of the Burj Al Arab. It’s possibly one of the best free things to do in Dubai, so don’t skip it.

The Viewing Point

Looking to admire the Dubai skyline this Eid Al Adha? Head to The Viewing Point at Dubai Creek Harbour, an eye-catching walkway spanning 70 metres over Dubai Creek. With a 26-metre cantilever that projects you out onto the water, it provides viewers with a completely unobstructed view across the creek towards Downtown Dubai. For unobstructed sunset views (aka, other people posing for their next ‘Gram photo), nab a spot early.

For more free things to do in Dubai, go to this link here.