Dubai has a busy week ahead with a mix of major exhibitions, live performances, sports events and family-friendly experiences taking place across the city from May 14 to 18. From large-scale art fairs and comedy shows to snow races and museum experiences, plenty is happening before the summer season fully takes over.
Here are some of the biggest things to check out in Dubai this week.
Art Dubai returns to Madinat Jumeirah
Art Dubai is back this week, bringing together galleries, artists and collectors from around the world for one of the region’s biggest cultural events.
Running from May 14 to 17 at Madinat Jumeirah, this year’s edition will feature contemporary art, modern works, and digital installations from both emerging and established galleries. Visitors can also attend talks, panel discussions and educational programmes featuring artists, curators, and researchers shaping conversations around art and culture in the region.
The fair will also showcase Dubai Collection’s “Moving Forward” exhibition, which includes works from several private collections and artists from the Middle East and beyond.
The opening day on May 14 is reserved for guests only, while public access begins from May 15 onwards.
- Location: Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh
- Dates: Public days from 15–17 May 2026
- Booking and price details: Complimentary public registration available online
Expo City Dubai marks International Museum Day
Expo City Dubai is hosting a special International Museum Day programme from May 16 to 18, with experiences focused on sustainability, innovation and cultural storytelling.
Visitors will be able to explore the Expo 2020 Museum, Vision Pavilion and Terra while taking part in activities designed around this year’s theme, “Museums Uniting a Divided World.” The event is aimed at encouraging reflection and conversation through immersive exhibits and interactive experiences.
One of the biggest highlights is that both the Expo 2020 Museum and Vision Pavilion will offer free entry during the event period. Terra will remain ticketed, with special entry priced at AED 20.
The programme runs daily from morning until late evening, making it an easy indoor option for families and students over the weekend.
- Location: Expo City Dubai
- Dates: 16–18 May 2026, from 10 am to 10 pm
- Booking and price details: Expo 2020 Museum and Vision Pavilion are free, Terra special ticket costs AED 20
Al Maestro comedy play at Dubai Opera
If you are looking for live entertainment this week, Al Maestro will be staged at Dubai Opera on May 15 and 16.
The Arabic comedy stars Tariq Al Ali and follows the story of a struggling musical band leader trying to keep his team organised while everything around him slowly spirals into chaos.
The production blends everyday humour, exaggerated personalities and fast-paced performances, making it one of the lighter entertainment options happening this week.
The show is expected to draw large crowds, especially over the weekend, with ticket categories ranging from standard balcony seating to VIP and VVIP experiences.
- Location: Dubai Opera
- Dates: 15–16 May 2026 at 8:30 pm
- Booking and price details: Tickets start from AED 99 and go up to AED 640
DXB Snow Run returns to Ski Dubai
Dubai’s annual DXB Snow Run is making its return this week inside Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates.
Organised by the Dubai Sports Council and Majid Al Futtaim, the event gives participants the chance to run through a snow-covered course kept at temperatures below minus four degrees Celsius. Runners can choose between 3km and 5km categories, with participants from different fitness levels expected to take part.
Registration for the race closes on May 15, while the main event takes place on May 18. Participants must be aged 16 and above to compete.
Ski Dubai is also hosting early morning snow training sessions in the lead-up to race day for participants preparing for the event.
- Location: Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates
- Dates: Race day on 18 May 2026
- Booking and price details: Registration available via PremierOnline until 15 May
35 th Edition of Al Gaffal Race
Preparations are continuing for the 35th edition of the Al Gaffal Traditional Dhow Sailing Race, one of the UAE’s most important heritage marine sporting events.
Organised by Dubai International Marine Club, the race recreates the traditional pearl-diving return journey across the Arabian Gulf and remains one of the country’s biggest maritime heritage events.
The race is officially scheduled to take place on May 15, 2026, and is expected to feature more than 100 traditional dhows and over 3,000 sailors travelling from Sir Bu Nair Island towards Dubai’s coastline. The finish area and Al Gaffal Race Village will be set up near Umm Suqeim Beach and the Burj Al Arab area, where spectators usually gather to watch the final stages of the race.
The annual event continues to celebrate the UAE’s historic connection to the sea and pearl diving traditions, while also attracting large crowds each year.
- Location: Finish area near Umm Suqeim Beach and Burj Al Arab
- Date: 15 May 2026
- Booking and price details: Free for public spectators; race participation limited to registered dhow teams
FAQs
What are the best things to do in Dubai this week?
Some of the biggest events happening in Dubai this week include Art Dubai at Madinat Jumeirah, International Museum Day experiences at Expo City Dubai, the DXB Snow Run at Ski Dubai and Al Maestro at Dubai Opera.
Is Expo City Dubai offering free entry for International Museum Day?
Yes. Expo 2020 Museum and Vision Pavilion will offer free entry from May 16 to 18 as part of International Museum Day celebrations. Terra will remain ticketed with a special entry priced at AED 20.
When is Art Dubai 2026 happening?
Art Dubai will run from May 14 to 17, 2026, at Madinat Jumeirah. Public access starts from May 15.
Is Global Village still open in May 2026?
Yes. Global Village has extended its season and will remain open until May 31, 2026.
When is the DXB Snow Run taking place?
The DXB Snow Run will take place on May 18, 2026, at Ski Dubai inside Mall of the Emirates.
