Dubai’s summer weekends are all about making the most of indoor experiences, and this one is no exception. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, a creative workshop, a family outing or a major football celebration, there are plenty of ways to fill your Saturday and Sunday.
From sketching your favourite dishes with watercolours to singing along to Michael Jackson classics or catching the FIFA World Cup Final with fellow fans, here’s our pick of the best things to do in Dubai this weekend.
Food Illustration Workshop: Sketch Before You Eat It!
Swap your phone camera for a sketchbook at this relaxed creative workshop hosted by Purple Soul Art at The Workshop Dubai. Instead of snapping a photo before your meal, you’ll learn how to capture it with pen and watercolour, creating your own illustrated food journal.
Designed for complete beginners, the session covers simple sketching techniques, colour mixing and ways to recreate different food textures. It’s a calming weekend activity that encourages you to slow down, enjoy the creative process and look at food from a different perspective. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for something different to do, this workshop offers a refreshing change of pace.
- Location: The Workshop Dubai, Jumeirah
- Timings: Saturday, 18 July, 3 pm to 5 pm
- Entry details: AED 378 per person, including all art materials. Suitable for ages 12 and above.
Beat the Heat DXB Season 5
If live music is on your weekend agenda, Beat the Heat DXB returns with another packed evening at Dubai World Trade Centre. This edition brings together Belgian-Moroccan artist DYSTINCT and Palestinian Jordanian singer Issam Alnajjar for a night of Arabic pop, R&B and contemporary hits.
The indoor concert series has become one of Dubai Summer Surprises’ biggest entertainment attractions, offering festival-style energy in a fully air-conditioned venue. Expect a lively crowd, impressive production and plenty of familiar songs throughout the evening.
- Location: Hall 8, Dubai World Trade Centre
- Timings: Saturday, 18 July. Doors open at 6 pm, concert begins at 8:30 pm
- Entry details: Tickets start from AED 105 and are available through Platinumlist.
Emirates Our Home Festival
The final weekend of the Emirates Our Home Festival coincides with the closing stages of the FIFA World Cup, making it one of the city’s biggest weekend attractions. Held inside a fully air-conditioned venue at Dubai Festival City, the festival combines football screenings with live entertainment, family activities and a lively food scene.
Visitors can move between multiple zones throughout the venue, including a dedicated family area with children’s activities, a licensed dining section for adults and premium hospitality experiences. Alongside the live match screenings, expect roaming performers, DJs, live music, retail pop-ups and a wide selection of international food vendors.
With the FIFA World Cup Final taking place on Sunday evening, the atmosphere is expected to be one of the highlights of the weekend.
- Location: Dubai Festival City Waterfront
- Timings: Saturday, 18 July and Sunday, 19 July. Open throughout the day with entertainment continuing into the night
- Entry details: General admission starts from AED 200, with part of the ticket value redeemable on food, beverages and merchandise. Family, dining and VIP packages are also available.
Michael Lives Forever: A Tribute to Michael Jackson
Fans of the King of Pop can spend Saturday evening enjoying one of the world’s most acclaimed Michael Jackson tribute productions. Starring Rodrigo Teaser, the performance recreates many of Jackson’s most iconic concerts with live vocals, elaborate choreography, costume changes and a full live band.
Backed by dancers, visual effects and impressive stage production, the show features classic hits including Beat It, Billie Jean, Bad, Black or White and Man in the Mirror. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a nostalgic night out.
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk
- Timings: Saturday, 18 July. Doors open at 7:30 pm, show starts at 8:30 pm
- Entry details: Tickets start from AED 125, with multiple seating categories available.
Make the Most of Your Weekend
Whether you’re discovering a new hobby, enjoying a live concert or watching the FIFA World Cup Final with thousands of fellow fans, plenty is happening across Dubai this weekend. From creative workshops and family-friendly festivals to arena shows and indoor entertainment, these events offer something for every kind of weekend plan while helping you stay cool during the summer.
FAQs
What are the biggest events happening in Dubai this weekend?
Some of the biggest events taking place on 18 and 19 July include the Emirates Our Home Festival at Dubai Festival City, Beat the Heat DXB featuring DYSTINCT and Issam Alnajjar, and Michael Lives Forever: A Tribute to Michael Jackson at Coca-Cola Arena.
Are there any family-friendly events this weekend?
Yes. The Emirates Our Home Festival includes a dedicated family zone with children’s activities, interactive entertainment and food vendors. The Food Illustration Workshop is also suitable for participants aged 12 and above.
What indoor activities are happening in Dubai this weekend?
Most of this weekend’s events are indoors, making them ideal for the summer. Options include live concerts, creative workshops, the Emirates Our Home Festival and the Michael Jackson tribute show.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes. Most events require booking, especially the concerts and festival experiences, as they are expected to attract large crowds over the weekend.
Which event is best for football fans?
The Emirates Our Home Festival is one of the best places to watch the FIFA World Cup Final, with multiple giant screens, live entertainment, food vendors and a dedicated fan atmosphere throughout the weekend.
