6 unmissable and new things to do in Dubai this weekend
From sky-high brunches and rooftop sunsets to wellness resets, elevated dining and Wicked magic, these are the standout things to do in Dubai to book, see and experience this week.
Join this beachfront wellness retreat in Dubai
Image: Supplied
On Saturday, January 31, Banyan Tree Dubai hosts the Samadhi Day Retreat, a one-day immersive wellness experience designed to help you reset and recharge by the sea.
The day begins with a Vinyasa Flow and ice bath session, followed by breakfast at Tocha, full-day pool and beach access, and 20% off dining and spa treatments. It wraps up with an evening Breathwork and Live Sound Healing session on the beach, designed to encourage deep relaxation and renewal.
When: Saturday, January 31, from 8.30am
Where: Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewater Island
Cost: Dhs690 per person
@samadhimywellness, @banyantreedxb
WICKED the Musical at Dubai Opera
Image: What’s On Archive
Clear your plans as this one’s positively wicked. After months of waiting, WICKED the Musical has flying landed at Dubai Opera. The world’s most popular musical (65+ million fans and counting) tells the untold story of the witches of Oz, with stunning sets, more than 350 costumes. Goosebumps? Guaranteed. Expect big emotions, iconic songs (yes, Defying Gravity), and a spectacular production featuring over 100 performers, crew and orchestra musicians. Consider it a little magical reward for the long wait.
Where: Dubai Opera
When: Till February 15, 2026
Times: Tuesday to Thursday: 7.30pm, Fri: 8pm, Sat: 3pm & 8pm, Sun: 2pm & 7pm
Cost: Tickets from Dhs265
Settle in for Weekend Lunch at INA
From Friday, January 30, INA Dubai launches Weekend Lunch, available every Friday to Sunday from 12.30pm to 5.30pm. Designed for slow, unhurried afternoons, the experience is set to curated music and resident DJ sets on weekends.
An à la carte menu focused on seasonal produce and fire-led cooking, from fresh seafood and small plates to mains on the grill, alongside signature cocktails and a dessert trolley.
When: Friday to Sunday, 12.30pm to 5.30pm
Where: INA Dubai, DIFC
SUSHISAMBA’s Rio Brunch returns this weekend
Taking over the 51st floor of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, SUSHISAMBA Dubai is bringing back its much-loved Rio Brunch on Saturday, January 31, from 12.30pm.
This high-energy brunch channels Carnaval vibes with samba dancers, live entertainment and DJ sets, all set against stunning views of Palm Jumeirah. Expect SUSHISAMBA’s signature blend of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavours, live cooking stations, indulgent mains and a show-stopping dessert finale, alongside colourful cocktails including Caipirinhas, Margaritas and Negronis.
When: Saturday, January 31, from 12.30pm
Where: SUSHISAMBA Dubai, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm
Price: From Dhs649
Studio Frantzén unveils its new name
Formerly known as Studio Frantzén, Brasserie Frantzén has officially evolved into a full brasserie concept, bringing it in line with its global sister venues. Helmed by award-winning chef Björn Frantzén, the refreshed menu delivers elevated comfort dishes with signature Frantzén finesse.
For dinner, expect standout plates such as lobster roll, beef carpaccio, veal schnitzel, and The Flying Elk, alongside a must-try steak with pepper sauce, inspired by the dish that first sparked the chef’s culinary journey. The experience ends on a sweet note in the restaurant’s candy room, where guests can hand-pick desserts.
On weekends, diners can opt for The Luncheon, a relaxed two-course menu with a side, paired with a curated beverage selection including wine, cocktails, champagne and mocktails.
Where: Brasserie Frantzén, Atlantis, The Palm
Lunch: Saturday and Sunday, 12.30pm to 4pm
Dinner: Daily, from 6pm
Catch sunset drinks at this new DIFC rooftop
If golden hour is your favourite time of day, The Ledge Rooftop should be on your radar. Perched above the city in Central Tower, this laid-back rooftop is all about skyline views, easy-going sundowners and after-work vibes.
Expect cocktails and wine flowing, shisha on deck, plus ice cream and bites to keep things sweet as the sun goes down.
When: Daily, 5pm to 11pm
Where: Central Tower, DIFC
