May in Dubai doesn’t slow down; it just shifts pace. As temperatures rise, the city leans into indoor experiences, late-night plans, and curated events that give you plenty of reasons to get out and do something different.
From big-name performances and comedy nights to immersive exhibitions and new restaurant openings, there’s a strong mix of things happening across the city this month.
Here’s what’s worth adding to your calendar this May in Dubai:
Best Events in Dubai in May 2026
Wagef! Comedy Show by Amal Taleb
Comedian, television presenter and actor Amal Taleb will bring a vibrant performance to the stage that will definitely leave you in stitches. Her signature style involves weaving touching stories with a sprinkle of sharp humour.
- On: Friday, 1st May; 8 pm
- Location: Meyana Theatre, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai
- Tickets at: dubai.platinumlist.net
Sharmila Dance Extravaganza
The Sharmila Dance Extravaganza by Sharmila Dance Centre brings together professional performers, especially young talents, for a high-energy show of dance and music with spectacular visuals.
The immersive live performance features dance routines across multiple styles, dynamic choreography, and solo acts for a memorable night out this weekend.
- On: Friday, 1st May to Sunday, 3rd May; 7.30 pm (Friday) and 1.30 pm and 6 pm (Saturday and Sunday)
- Location: New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai
- Tickets at: tickets.virginmegastore.me
Candlelight Concert: Umm Kulthum
Candlelight concerts in Dubai offer an immersive, multi-sensory experience of classical and contemporary music. The upcoming show in May will see musicians from MENA Band performing Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum’s biggest hits.
The following act presents iconic tracks from a century of Arabic music. End your evening with a three-course Mediterranean dinner.
- On: Saturday, 9th May; 7 pm
- Location: Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Wadi Al Safa 5, Dubai
- Tickets at: feverup.com
Golden Era of Arabic Music
Enjoy an evening of timeless Arabic music with some of the region’s most beloved classics. Performances feature a carefully curated selection of iconic songs spanning Lebanese, Egyptian, Khaliji, Iraqi and Syrian classics, and are inspired by over 14 legendary artists.
- On: Saturday, 9th May; 8 pm
- Location: Souk Madinat Jumeirah, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Sufouh 1, Dubai
- Tickets at: toda.ae
The Good Energy Club
An alternative to the fast-paced energy of the city and its dynamic calendar, The Good Energy Club is a free community-led experience that allows participants to connect through mindful movement.
Expect energising workouts, sunrise yoga, sound healing and gentle restorative sessions suited to every level. For a more social atmosphere, there will be F&B and market stalls.
- On: Saturday, 2nd May; 8 am to 1 pm
- Location: Terra, Expo City Dubai, Madinat Al Mataar, Dubai
- Tickets at: terra.expocitydubai.com
Art Dubai
After a postponement earlier this year, Art Dubai is perhaps the most highly anticipated event in Dubai in May. This edition marks the fair’s 20-year history and will present leading local, regional, and international galleries alongside artist commissions and collaborations with the UAE’s leading institutions.
Expect exhibits, stunning artworks, and installations, as well as presentations and curated talks.
- On: Thursday, 14th May (preview) to Sunday, 17th May
- Location: Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
- Register at: artdubai.ae
DXB Snow Run at Ski Dubai
The seventh edition of the DXB Snow Run allows runners aged 13 to 70 to take on the slopes at -4 degrees Celsius. Runners can choose from two distances, three kilometres (three loops) or five kilometres (five loops) and participate solo or as a team of five in a competitive event. Make sure you register by 14th May.
- On: Sunday, 17th May
- Location: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai
- Register at: skidxb.com
Dubai Restaurant Week
For two weeks in May, residents have the chance to explore more than 125 restaurants across Dubai for less. You can find a full list of menus available during the Restaurant Week on Visit Dubai.
Think two-course lunches and three-course dinners, with cuisines ranging from French at Chez Wam to Pan-Asian delicacies at Shanghai Me Dubai.
- On: Friday, 1st May to Sunday, 17th May
PFL Mena 9: Pride of Arabia
PFL MENA 2026 is expected to set fire to Dubai this season with MMA action. Attendees can witness the best Arab fighters from 11 countries across the MENA region competing in the Featherweight and Lightweight categories. Each fight can pave the way for a championship and a $100,000 prize.
In the main event, UAE champion Mohammad Yahya will return to compete. Other participants include Eddine Hamli, Bahraini MMA legend Hamza Kooheji, and Zamzam Al Hammadi.
- On: Sunday, 24th May; 5 pm
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
- Tickets at: coca-cola-arena.com
Overall, May 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting month in Dubai. The line-up of events features a dynamic mix of entertainment, culture, wellness, music and dining.
From major exhibitions like Art Dubai to immersive experiences such as Sharmila Dance Extravaganza and PFL Mena, the city offers something for all interests.
Looking for more things to do in Dubai?
Best Outdoor Markets in Dubai for a Weekend Browse
Things to Do in Dubai This Weekend (May 2-3, 2026) – thedubaiatlas.com
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