Things to do in Dubai

Looking for something to do in Dubai this week? From concerts and art exhibitions to fitness and family-friendly places to visit, here are the best things to do.

Bookmark this list, as we'll add to it throughout the month, and update it several times each week. Planning to visit the capital? Here is our list of things to do in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

PERFORMANCES & EVENTS

After-School Mania at KidZania

Until Thursday, March 21

KidZania has something to keep kids entertained once the bell rings. After-School Mania lets them explore role-playing activities – such as reading the news like a TV anchor and keeping the city safe like a police officer – at the interactive city every weekday afternoon from 4pm for Dh99 for an Economy Ticket. Book tickets online or at the KidZania ticket counter.

from Dh99, KidZania, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, 800 38224 6255, www.kidzania.ae

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Escape In with #DXBExperiments

Until Friday, March 22

Escape In is a pop-up party in which groups enter a room and take on intriguing challenges. Solve the riddles and puzzles to gain access to fun that lasts into the early hours. The fourth in a series by #DXBExperiments, the event features four themed challenge rooms and runs for four weeks.

7pm to 1am, Thursdays and Fridays, free entry; drinks payable on consumption, 21+, On42, Media One, Dubai, www.facebook.com/DXBExperiments

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Neha Kakkar in concert

Friday, March 22

Bollywood singer Neha Kakkar will perform at Holi Masti, a one-day family event with a children’s area, food and beverage stalls as well as music by DJs, all in celebration of the Indian festival of colours. Kakkar will perform her hit songs including Dhating Naach, Kala Chasma and Sunny Sunny.

From 10.30am, from Dh99, Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre, Dubai, www.platinumlist.net

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The Laughter Factory

Thursday, March 21; Friday, March 22

Book tickets for the Tickle Your Funny Bone tour as The Laughter Factory brings top international comedians to the UAE for stand-up hilarity. Renaissance man Alasdair Beckett-King (pictured) makes his Gulf debut as does the frank and fearless Sarah Callaghan, while inventive Adam Bloom marks his return to the UAE.

March 14, 9pm, Movenpick JBR, Dubai; March 15, 9pm, Grand Millennium Barsha Heights, Dubai; March 21, 9pm, Tryp by Wyndham Dubai, Dubai; March 22, 9pm, Hilton Dubai, Jumeirah, Dubai, from Dh160, www.thelaughterfactory.com

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BBC Proms

Until Friday, March 22

BBC Proms brings top classical music to a wide audience in five concerts over four nights. On March 19, hear the world premiere of Tmesis, a symphony composition by Bushra El Turk; violinist Karen Gomyo performing Tchaikovsky; and music from Romeo and Juliet by Prokofiev. On March 20, Contemporary Choral Classics features conductor Sofi Jeannin and the BBC Singers performing Gershwin, Billy Joel, Abba and more. On March 21, at 7.30pm, experience Beethoven’s Ninth as performed by a quartet of soloists, the BBC Singers and the Dubai Opera Festival Chorus; then on the same night, at 11pm, Finnish pianist Timo Alakotila and accordion Johanna Juhola perform the Late Night Prom. The Last Night of the Proms is on March 22 and is hosted by Petroc Trelawny, featuring the BBC Singers and the Dubai Opera Festival Chorus along with Roderick Williams, who will sing classics including Rule, Britannia! and Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March No 1. There will also be pre-concert talks, open rehearsals, masterclasses and more.

Prom 1 on March 19, 8pm, from Dh75; Prom 2 on March 20, 8pm, from Dh50; Prom 3 on March 21, 7.30pm, from Dh75; Prom 4 on March 21, 11pm, from Dh50; Prom 5 on March 22, 8pm, from Dh150, Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, www.dubaiopera.com

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Housphere

Friday, March 22

Housphere combines 10 hours of house music with family-friendly games. Children can enjoy the inflatable slides, a Lego station, soft play, trampolines, face-painting, arts and crafts and more, while parents will enjoy performances by acts including headliner Inna, DJ Amir Sharara, saxophonist Matt West, dancers, fire performers and more.

2pm to midnight, from Dh250; free for children younger than 10, Address Montgomerie, Dubai, tickets.virginmegastore.me

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Tropical Island Beach Party at Legoland

Friday, March 22 to Saturday, March 23

Visit Legoland for the Tropical Island Beach Party, with activities at the Lego Wave Pool, including hula-hoop dancing, Brick Castle-making, a limbo competition and a musical statue dance party. You can also take part in relay races, water volleyball, interactive drumming sessions and performances and more. Plus, there are games with prizes including park passes and Lego toys, and Sharky, the Lego character, will be available for meet and greets with the kids.

10am to 6pm, from Dh175 for UAE residents, Legoland Dubai, Dubai Parks & Resorts, Dubai, www.legoland.ae

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My Name Is Rachel Corrie

Friday, March 22 and Saturday, March 23

Catch additional performances of My Name Is Rachel Corrie by Danu Dubai theatre company. This true story is based on the writings of the American activist, who was killed trying to protect the bulldozing of a Palestinian home in the Gaza Strip in 2003. Palestinian actor Farrah Yasin plays Corrie in this one-woman show that powerfully demonstrates the compassion that Corrie embodied in her work towards peace and human rights.

8pm, free with registration, The Courtyard Playhouse, Al Quoz, Dubai, register at courtyardplayhouse.com

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Family Picnic at Brighton College Dubai

Saturday, March 23

Visit the Family Picnic at Brighton College Dubai, where children can enjoy traditional British playground games such as hopscotch and hula-hooping, as well as cake- and cookie-decorating, face-painting and magic shows. Manchester City Football School will host a skills camp; a British art activity will run throughout the afternoon; and children can take part in classic games such as the egg-and-spoon race and three-legged race. Guests can tour the campus and learn about the curriculum.

2pm to 6pm, free, Brighton College Dubai, Al Barsha South, Dubai, www.brightoncollegedubai.ae

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Steven Lin piano recital

Saturday, March 23

Taiwanese-American pianist Steven Lin performs Romantic Revolutionaries, a recital of classical works by Schumann, Beethoven, Medtner and Liszt, as part of the World Classical Music Series.

Doors open at 7pm, concert starts at 8pm, from Dh184, Royal Ballroom, One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai, www.platinumlist.net

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Sikka Art Fair

Until Sunday, March 24

Sikka Art Fair, under the theme "An Open Window to Art and Tolerance", features works by regional artists of many nationalities through the visual and performing arts, including art exhibitions, live music, interactive workshops, film screenings and poetry readings. There will also be homegrown food vendors present.

4pm to 1pm on March 16, then 11am to 1pm daily, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai, www.dubaiculture.gov.ae

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Shreya Ghoshal

Friday, March 29

Visit Bollywood Parks Dubai and enjoy a performance by Bollywood playback singer Shreya Ghoshal, whose hits include Devdas, Om Shanti Om, Padmavati and Baji Rao Mastani. Enjoy the concert and half-day access to the park from 6pm including rides, attractions and live entertainment from Dh49, or choose full-day access and the concert from Dh99.

Open 1pm to 10pm; concert from 8pm, from Dh49 for the concert and half-day access to the park from 6pm; from Dh99 for the concert and full day access to the park, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai, 800 2629464, www.dubaiparksandresorts.com

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Sunil Grover Unplugged

Friday, March 29

Book tickets to see Sunil Grover Unplugged, in which the popular actor will perform memorable comedic character portrayals, or caricatures, as he calls them, including the famous Gutthi, Rinku Bhabi and Dr Mashoor Gulati. Grover is known for his work on films including Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Ghajini and the forthcoming Salman Khan film Bharat.

From 9pm, from Dh65, Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, The Indian High School, Dubai, www.meraticket.com

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The Beach Run DXB

Friday, March 29

Register to take part in the Beach Run Dubai, which lets runners of all ages and abilities start off the weekend with some exercise. There are three distances and running categories: the 7.2-kilometre serious run; the 3.6km fun run; and the 1.8km family run. The event takes place beside the Burj Al Arab and there is a Festival Village with food trucks, music and fitness demonstrations, kids’ activities, entertainment, viewing areas and more. Runners will receive an official race T-shirt and race goodies.

7am, from Dh119, Sunset Beach, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, register by March 27 at beachrundxb.com

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Burj Khalifa lightshow

Tuesdays to Saturdays until the end of March

The Burj Khalifa presents its popular light show, which debuted on New Year’s Eve, nightly at 8pm through March. Two Guinness World Records were earned: Largest LED-illuminated facade and Tallest LED-illuminated facade. The displays narrate the story of the UAE with the theme of “time and progression”, highlighting the heritage of the nation and its future ambitions. The other timings will feature various displays from the Burj Khalifa's extensive library of shows.

7.15pm, 8pm and 9.30pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 6.45pm, 8pm and 9.45pm from Thursdays to Saturdays, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, www.facebook.com/burjkhalifa

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Femmes Film Festival

Until Saturday, March 30

Femmes Film Festival is part of the Women’s Spring series of events at Alliance Francaise that aims to promote women in the arts. The films to be screened are all directed by females and are being shown in their original version with English subtitles. The programme includes selected shorts and feature-length films from the Films Femmes Mediterranee. The series opens on March 9 with a screening of Benzine by Sarra Abidi at The Studio, Dubai Opera, and the rest of the series will be screened at Alliance Francaise Dubai.

5pm on Saturdays; 7.30pm on Tuesdays, free, Alliance Francaise Dubai Theatre, Oud Metha, Dubai, 04 335 8712, www.afdubai.org

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Bluewaters Open Gallery

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until March 30

Take part in art workshops at Bluewaters Open Gallery every weekend until the end of the month, including seashell painting, unicorn dream catchers, a glow-in-the-dark doodle room, flower-crown making, street-graffiti sessions, and a heart wall where visitors can create a personalised heart canvas for Mother’s Day. There will also be a series of open-mic events for comedians, as well as art and sketch improv nights with lessons for those who want to learn.

3pm to 8pm, Thursdays to Saturdays, Bluewaters, Dubai, www.bluewatersdubai.ae

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Earth Hour at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

Saturday, March 30

Celebrate Earth Hour with an “unplugged” garden concert at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah. Hotel guests and the community can enjoy an acoustic concert under the stars by the band Fuego Latino, watch a video about energy conservation, take part in the Taste in the Dark canape sampling and enjoy bites at Wavebreaker beach bar outdoors in the dark. Guests will be given a candle during Earth Hour to support the cause.

8.30pm to 9.30pm, free, Wavebreaker Garden Area, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Dubai, 04 318 2582, fb.jumeirahreservations@hilton.com

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Dubai World Cup

Saturday, March 30

Book tickets for the Dubai World Cup and enjoy one of the most popular dates on the Dubai sporting calendar. Expect lots of fancy hats and suits, world-class horse-racing, a kids’ play zone and a post-race concert by Gwen Stefani (Hollaback Girl, Cool, The Sweet Escape).

3.45pm post time, from Dh20 for general admission, Meydan Racecourse, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, 04 327 2110, www.dubaiworldcup.com

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World Art Dubai

Wednesday, April 3 to Saturday, April 6

Visit World Art Dubai, an affordable retail art fair, and find paintings, prints, sculptures and photographs by artists from 30 countries in an array of cultures, styles and budgets from Dh350. The event also features live painting sessions, expert talks and hands-on creative learning workshops.

2pm to 9pm on April 3; 1pm to 9pm from Thursday to Saturday, from Dh25 at the door; from Dh20 online, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, www.worldartdubai.com

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Capernaum film screening

Until Saturday, April 6

Now is your chance to see the film Capernaum, which won the Jury Prize at Cannes and was nominated for an Oscar, Golden Globe and Bafta, among others. Directed by Nadine Labaki, the film tells the story of Zain (Zain Al Refeea), a Lebanese boy who sues his negligent parents for the “crime” of giving him life. The streetwise child uses his wits to survive and meets a migrant worker who helps him find his way.

Various timings, from Dh52.50, Cinema Akil, Warehouse 68, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, www.cinemaakil.com

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‘-ing’ Creative Festival

Thursday, April 11 to Saturday, April 13

The -ing Creative Festival brings together top international photographers, designers and artists for a series of 38 workshops and talks that aim to connect with and inspire local talent. Workshops include personal branding development, career development for creatives and event identity design. There will also be a creative market, activities for the public and special deals at restaurants and shops in Dubai Design District.

8.30am to 9.30pm, from Dh950, Dubai Design District, Dubai, www.ingcreatives.com

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Middle East Film & Comic Con

Thursday, April 11 to Saturday, April 13

Book your tickets for the Middle East Film & Comic Con, where super fans will meet superheroes through panel talks, workshops and activities. Plus, there will be merchandise to purchase, a cosplay contest and parade, comic and manga artists, eSports games and celebrity meet-and-greets including Ross Marquand of The Walking Dead and voice actress Tara Strong.

2pm to 10pm on Thursday; noon to 10pm on Friday; 1pm to 9pm on Saturday, from Dh115 for a one-day pass, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, www.mefcc.com

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Wafi Science Factory

Until Saturday, April 13

Visit the Wafi’s Science Factory interactive exhibition, which combines knowledge and fun challenges for all ages. There are 40 machines that feature experiences such as earthquakes, tornadoes and being invisible, where visitors can enjoy science, math, nature, music and more in an informational and entertaining setting, as well as prizes to be won.

10am to 10pm, Saturdays to Wednesdays; 10am to midnight, Thursdays and Fridays, free, Wafi, Dubai, 04 324 4555, www.wafi.com

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Just Like That (JLT)

Thursday, April 18 to Saturday, April 20

Just Like That (JLT) is a show by Tall Tales Productions about modern-day Dubai. The story is set in JLT and gives viewers a glimpse into their own lives through the lives of an Emirati writer, a British businessman, a South Indian security guard and others who end up living on the same floor in a JLT high-rise. What unfolds is a clash of cultures, perspectives and ways of life all told with a dash of comedy.

7.30pm, plus a 3pm show on April 20, from Dh80, The Junction, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, www.platinumlist.net

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The Laughter Factory

Thursday, April 25; Friday, April 26; Saturday, April 27; Tuesday, April 30; Wednesday, May 1; Thursday, May 2; Friday, May 3

Catch The Laughter Factory’s Life Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This tour featuring top international comedians performing side-splitting comedy at clubs across the country. Daliso Chaponda (pictured) wowed the judges on Britain’s Got Talent, even getting the Golden Buzzer from Amanda Holden; Dana Alexander is a fresh and fearless Canadian sharing her observations; and George Zach moved from Greece to Britain at age 18 to study biochemistry but exchanged the lab for the stage.

Thursday, April 25, 7.30pm (early show), Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai; 9pm (late show), Movenpick JBR, Dubai; Friday, April 26, 7pm (early show), Dukes The Palm, Dubai; 9pm (late show), Grand Millennium Barsha Heights, Dubai; Saturday, April 27, 7pm, On42, Media One, Dubai Media City; Tuesday, April 30, 8pm, Smartline bin Majid Beach Resort, Ras Al Khaimah; Wednesday, May 1, 8pm, Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi; Thursday, May 2, 9pm, Tryp by Wyndham Dubai, Barsha Heights, Dubai; Friday, May 3, 9pm, Seafood Kitchen, Jebel Ali Recreational Club, Dubai, from Dh160, www.thelaughterfactory.com

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Wow at The Rotunda, Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai

Until Saturday, May 4

Catch a performance of Wow, a 90-minute family-friendly show that features more than 30 acrobats, aerialists, dancers and performing artists in an immersive theatrical experience. In addition to great music, see 3D multimedia projections, holograms, exciting choreography, theatrical lighting and more. There are lunch and dinner packages available, at Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen and Zhen Wei Dim Sum, from Dh370.

1.30pm and 7pm, from Dh100 for show only, The Rotunda, Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, www.rotundadubai.com

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Tony Robbins Live in Dubai

Tuesday, September 3

Personal and business development coach Tony Robbins is heading to Dubai this year to share his message of motivation and empowerment to help you reach your life goals. The author of the bestseller Money: Master the Game will present Achieving the Unimaginable, which focuses on discovering your greatness, living your passion, attracting wealth and abundance, achieving your goals and mastering success. Register now for tickets and VIP meet-and-greet information, as well as venue details when they become available.

10am to 4.30pm, location to be announced in Dubai, www.tonyrobbinsdxb.com

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VR Theme Park Super 7 Pass special offer

Daily, limited time

For a limited time, book a VR Theme Park Super 7 Pass online and get a 50 per cent discount. The Super 7 pass lets you experience any seven of the top 10 experiences, games, rides and educational journeys, including Dubai Drone, Dune Bash and VR Maze.

From Dh90 with discount; regularly Dh180, 10am to 11pm, Saturdays to Thursdays; 10am to 1am on Fridays, VR Theme Park, Level 2, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, www.vrparkdubai.com

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We Love Our Beach clean-up

First Sunday of every month

Zero Gravity hosts We Love Our Beach, a monthly environmental event in which staff members and volunteers, including divers, join for up to 90 minutes to clean the beach of plastic and rubbish. The initiative is part of the venue’s ongoing efforts to make a difference to the environment by cutting down on plastic. The event is followed by a breakfast by Zero Gravity's chef. T-shirts will be provided and guests are asked to bring a refillable water bottle.

7.30am, free, Zero Gravity, JBR, Dubai, 04 399 0009, weloveourbeach@0-gravity.ae

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Dubai Ice Rink weekday skate offer

Sundays to Thursdays, ongoing

Visit the Dubai Ice Rink from Sunday to Thursday and take advantage of the weekday skate offer of a 90-minute skating session for Dh49. Skating enthusiasts can perfect their jumps, spins and footwork and enjoy a whirl around the rink at sessions beginning at 10am, 11.45am, 1.45pm, 3.15pm and 5pm.

10am to 6.30pm, from Dh49; regular prices from Dh75, Dubai Ice Rink, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, 800 38224 6255, www.dubaiicerink.com

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FOOD

Riva Ristorante beachfront breakfast menu

Daily, ongoing

Riva Ristorante has teamed up with Ripe Organic to create a beachside breakfast menu using fresh, local ingredients. Dishes include the super berry granola, Riva Benedict, vegan coco-mango chia pudding, wholegrain French toast, banana pancakes, and the Riva English breakfast. There is also a breakfast on Saturdays from Dh149. Guests can also enjoy a beach club pass from Dh100, for the chance to soak up the sunshine and lounge beside the pool, overlooking Palm views.

7.30am to 11am, from Dh45; 11am to 1pm on Saturdays, from Dh149, Riva Ristorante, The Shoreline, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 04 430 9466, www.riva-beach.com

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The Italian Way Supper Club

Until Saturday, March 23

Book your spot at the pop-up communal dining experience The Supper Club curated by The Italian Way and enjoy an exclusive menu of 39 ingredients served in a secret 39th-floor location. The five-course Italian meal will be served at one table and features dishes created by chef Stefano Ratti, who will serve the dishes and explain the selection and curation of the ingredients.

From Dh350, 21+ only, book through InterContinental Dubai Marina, Dubai, 055 992 9102

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A Cut of Freedom

Until Saturday, April 6

Taste creative dishes made from Westholme Australian wagyu at five select restaurants in Dubai. A Cut of Freedom lets chefs create their own dishes and present a signature menu of Westholme meats, including a starter and a main course. Share a photo of your favourite Westholme dish on Instagram with the #ACutofFreedomDubai hashtag for the chance to win an exclusive dinner for two.

Roda Grill, Roda Al Bustan, 04 282 0000; BB Social Dining, DIFC, 04 407 4444; Ruya Dubai, Grosvenor House, 04 399 9123; Billionaire’s Mansion, Taj Dubai, 04 510 3100; Akira Back, W Dubai – The Palm, 04 245 5555, @True_Westholme on Instagram

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Vegan Roast ‘Vrunch’

Saturday, April 6

Try a roast dinner, vegan style, at the Dubai Vegan Days’ Vrunch event at Rove Healthcare City. Chef Zendy Marsam has designed a plant-based spin on the traditional meal, complete with a Wellington nut roast, rosemary Hasselback potatoes, roasted root vegetables, mushroom gravy and the choice of two desserts: blackberry apple tart or orange and almond cake.

11.30am to 3pm, from Dh99 for adults; from Dh49 for children, Rove Hotel, Dubai Healthcare City, book at 04 561 9200, www.facebook.com/DXBvegandays

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The Pandora Afternoon Tea at Fairmont The Palm

Until Tuesday, April 30

Experience the “Celebrating You…” afternoon tea at Mashrabiya Lounge, where, in honour of International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day, guests can enjoy a Pandora-themed event. Along with Instagrammable decor, homemade finger sandwiches, delicate scones with clotted cream and a selection of decorated treats and truffles, the first 200 to attend will also receive a Pandora crown design charm and the first 20 group bookings for bridal or baby shower events will receive an extra gift for the main guest. There is also a weekly prize giveaway.

Noon to 6pm, from Dh155, Mashrabiya Lounge, Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. 04 457 3457, palm.dining@fairmont.com

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New Smoothie Bowls at Baker & Spice

Daily, ongoing

Baker & Spice has launched a line of smoothie bowls that make a great breakfast or healthy dessert. Choose among blueberry, acai, choco-almond and tropical. Each bowl is made from fresh organic ingredients that have never been frozen, and are layered with different flavours and textures, including fruits, vegetables, seeds and superfoods.

From Dh45 each, Baker & Spice, Souk Al Bahar, Al Manzil and Jumeirah Town Centre, Dubai, bakerandspice.me

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WELLNESS

Well-Mum and Baby clinic

Sundays and Thursdays, until June 30

New mothers and pregnant women can take part in the Well Mum and Baby Clinic offered at the Dubai Hills branch of King’s College Hospital London. The programme is free and offers three sessions of one-hour holistic antenatal and postnatal care that focuses on feeding, weaning, sleeping patterns, breastfeeding and more. Specialist consultations are also available, as is baby-weight monitoring.

2pm to 5pm, King’s College Hospital London, Dubai Hills, kingscollegehospitaldubai.com

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CLASSES & TALKS

Full Moon Yoga with Melanie Swan

Saturday, March 23

Celebrate the third year of Full Moon Yoga with a special edition of the community event. Led by Melanie Swan, the evening under the stars features a 90-minute yoga and meditation session on the resort’s white-sand beach. Bring two friends and the third attends for free. The session is mixed and caters to all ability levels. Mats and towels are available and there will be healthy refreshments.

8pm for one hour of yoga and 30 minutes of meditation, from Dh85 for one person; from Dh150 for two people, Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 04 457 3517, booking required at fullmoonyoga@fairmont.com

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Dubomedy Comedy School

Saturday, March 30 to Saturday, May 4

Register to take part in comedy classes with Dubomedy Arts School, including Stand-Up Comedy 101, Improv Comedy, a class for intermediate to advanced stand-up and an Arabic-language comedy class. The weekly lessons teach fundamental performance skills and are led by comedians Mina Liccione and Ali Al Sayed. The courses will conclude with a final performance, the Comedy Mixtape Show.

Various timings on Saturdays, from Dh1,500, ages 17+, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, 800 266339, lol@dubomedy.com

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Swimming Wonders at Hilton Dubai The Walk

Sundays and Thursdays, from April 7

Children up to age three can take part in the Swimming Wonders programme at Hilton Dubai The Walk, where they can learn the basics of swimming to encourage water confidence at a young age. The 30-minute class is good exercise for parents, too, and allows for bonding time with their little ones. Then enjoy the rest of the day at the Wavebreaker Beach Club from Dh180 per adult for family time in the sun.

9am to 11am, depending on age group, from Dh525 for five weeks; from Dh180 for a daily pass for Wavebreaker Beach Club, Hilton Dubai The Walk, JBR, Dubai, 055 503 4757, info@swimmingwonders.com

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FITNESS

Run and Flo

Saturday, March 23

Run and Flo is a free fitness event that encourages a healthy and active lifestyle through simple workouts, running, yoga and meditation. Take part in the 2.6-kilometre Warm Up and Run and the stress-busting Yoga Flow sessions, both featuring a live DJ. Bring a yoga mat, beach towel and water bottle. Children can enjoy a safe activity zone with colouring, face-painting, kids’ yoga, Zumba and building blocks. Free healthy refreshments and snacks will be available.

4pm for Warm Up and Run; 5.30pm for Yoga Flow, free, Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, www.goldenmilegalleria.com

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Salt Kite Beach cycling classes

Tuesday, March 26 to Monday, April 1

Sign up to attend free Motion cycling classes at Salt Kite Beach. As Salt is supporting the Gov Games, the initiative extends to public. You can register for a free cycling class and receive a training kit. The full-body workouts aim to build mental and physical strength. They will take place by the beach and will include energising music and fun photo opportunities.

6.45pm on March 26 and March 31; 4.45pm on March 27, March 30 and April 1; 5.45pm on March 28 and March 29, free, Salt, Kite Beach, Dubai, community.motion-cycling.ae/kite-beach

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Fuel Weekend at W Dubai – The Palm

Thursday, April 11 to Sunday, April 14

Book your spot at the Fuel weekend at W Dubai – The Palm and enjoy a four-day fitness-focused holiday featuring bootcamp, celebrity trainers, SUP yoga and HIIT workouts. There’s also healthy cuisine, a Dubai-style brunch, a poolside party, world-class DJs, additional local excursions and more.

From Dh4,725, W Dubai – The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, whotels.com/fuelweekends

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Fit Hub

Weekdays, ongoing

Take part in the free trial classes from March 3-7 at the new Fit Hub at Laguna Waterpark. The outdoor facility offers workouts led by instructors from Fitness In Dubai, including bootcamp, yoga, boxing and dance classes, as well as functional workouts. Guests will have access to the shower and changing facilities. After March 10, you will also get access to Laguna Waterpark, which is open from 10am to 6pm, and can invite up to three friends and family members along at a 40 per cent discount.

Classes at 6am, 7am, 8am, 6pm and 7pm, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh99 per class; packages available, Fit Hub, Laguna Waterpark, La Mer, Dubai, www.lagunawaterpark.com

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RealRyder indoor cycling class at Surge Body Fitness

Ongoing

Surge Body Fitness offers indoor cycling classes with the RealRyder tilt bikes, which move from side to side, simulating an outdoor bike ride. The full-body workout tones your upper body, tightens abs and shapes your legs. Classes are available from 7am, and there is a 50 per cent discount on all packages purchased before the end of January.

From Dh2,000 for a three-month package; from Dh6,000 for one year, with free spin shoes, Surge Body Fitness, Concord Tower, Dubai Media City, www.besurge.com

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Speedo Swim Squads at The Burj Club

Ongoing

The Burj Club hosts Speedo Swim Squads academy and club, with classes for all ages and abilities led by highly qualified teachers and coaches and using state-of-the-art equipment, including a semi-Olympic-sized indoor pool. Classes include Baby Swim for babies aged 3 months to 3 years; Learn to Swim from 3 years to adult; Competition Training; Tri-Programmes; and Masters and Adult Fitness Programmes.

From Dh90 per session, various prices per programme, The Burj Club, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, 04 888 3900, www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/the-burj-club

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The Burj Club

Daily, ongoing

The Burj Club hosts fun and rigorous group workout sessions in a variety of disciplines designed to motivate and inspire you to go further. Try classes in Super SUP Fitness, doing a mix of Pilates and yoga while balancing on a paddle board; outdoor yoga with views of Downtown Dubai; HIIT for high-intensity sessions for all abilities that target and strengthen your core; Rhythm Ride cycling class for cardiovascular exercise up hills and with challenging drills; and Body Pump, the workout that challenges all major muscle groups with squats, presses, lifts and curls.

Various timings, from Dh95 per session; free for The Burj Club members, The Burj Club, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/the-burj-club

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HOLIDAY CAMPS

British Orchard Nursery spring camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

Children aged one to four can explore the world of numbers at the British Orchard Nursery Spring Camp. Through activities based on stories by author Julia Donaldson – A Squash and Squeeze and What the Ladybird Heard – children will learn the concepts of size and space as well as planning and critical thinking.

9am to 5pm, from Dh650, all branches of British Orchard Nursery in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, 800 773 724665, www.britishorchardnursery.com

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Dig It Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

Children aged four to 10 can take part in the Dig It spring camp, where they can learn, play and stay active during the school break. There will be sports and games, puppet shows, storytelling, dancing and workshops to make photo frames, summer accessories and painting.

9am to 1pm, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh170 per day; from Dh700 per week, Dig It, Dubai, 04 438 4479, enquiries@digitdubai.com

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Kartdrome Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

Gulf Star Sports offers children aged seven to 15 an adrenalin-fuelled spring break of go-karting, laser tag in the medieval maze, race-room simulators, billiards tournaments, video games, team games and competitions at the Kartdrome Summer Camp. Use the code FIFTY50 when you register and the first 50 will receive Dh50 cent off the early-bird pricing.

9am to 1pm, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh995 per week when booked two weeks in advance; regularly Dh1,150, Dubai Autodrome, Dubai, info@gulfstarsports.com, 050 429 4860

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SAE Institute Creative Spring Camps

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

Register your children aged 12 to 16 for the SAE Institute Creative Spring Camp, where they can take part in practical, interactive sessions in the fields of film, animation or graphic design. Each five-day course is designed to help them develop their knowledge and skills in comic illustration, photography, audio, games development and more as they explore creative thinking, improve team-building skills and make friends with students of similar interests.

9am to 2pm, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh1,500 per week, SAE Institute, Block 16, Dubai Knowledge Village, Dubai, 04 360 6456, hello@saedubai.com

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Gulf Star Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

Children aged three to 13 can take part in activities as part of the Gulf Star Spring Camp, including sports, arts and crafts, drama, dance, adventure games, martial arts and more. There will also be fun games to go along with a special weekly theme such as superheroes and space. Use the code FIFTY50 when you register and the first 50 will receive Dh50 off the early-bird pricing.

9am to 2.30pm, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh735 per week for early-bird booking, March 15; then from Dh840 per week, Foremarke School, Dovecote Green Primary School, Jebel Ali School and Clarion School, Dubai, 050 429 4860, info@gulfstarsports.com

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Junior Improvisors Theatre Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

Children aged eight to 11 can take part in the Junior Improvisors Theatre Spring Camp at the Courtyard Playhouse. The intensive experience lets campers explore different styles of improv, characterisation, stagecraft and storytelling. The finale at the end of the week will be a showcase performed for friends and family.

9am to noon, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh1,155, The Courtyard Playhouse, Al Quoz, Dubai, 050 781 2269, juliana@courtyardplayhouse.com

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Storytelling Theatre Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

Children aged four to seven can explore five creative books in the Storytelling Theatre Spring Camp at the Courtyard Playhouse. Giles Andreae’s books will inspire a series of games, role-playing and arts and crafts: Be Brave Little Penguin, Giraffes Can’t Dance, The Great Heffalump Hunt, Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs and Charlie and the Lion Who Wanted Love.

9am to noon, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh1,155, The Courtyard Playhouse, Al Quoz, Dubai, 050 781 2269, juliana@courtyardplayhouse.com

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The Kidz Club Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

The Kidz Club spring camp is for children aged five to 12, and features hands-on activities such as arts and craft sessions, outdoor excursions, cooking activities, swimming and more as they make new friends in a safe and professional environment. Lunch will be provided.

9.30am to 4pm, Sundays to Thursdays, from Dh350 per day; from Dh1,100 per week, The Kidz Club, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Dubai, 04 317 2449, kidsclub.grandhyattdubai@hyatt.com

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Easter holiday camp at Alliance Francaise Dubai

Sunday, April 7 to Thursday, April 11

Children aged five to seven can attend the Easter holiday camp at Alliance Francaise Dubai, where they can enjoy fun, French-language activities that feature all things festive for the spring, including bunnies, eggs, chocolates and more.

9am to 3pm, from Dh250 per day; from Dh850 per week with a snack and lunch included, Alliance Francaise Dubai Theatre, Oud Metha, Dubai, 04 335 8712, mediatheque@afdubai.org

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Tashkeel Spring Camp

Sunday, April 7 to Thursday, April 11

The annual Tashkeel Spring Camp features challenging and creative workshops for children aged eight to 16, which encourage them to use their imaginations to produce beautiful works of art. Children will learn new skills each day as they experiment with a range of disciplines that explore the facilities at Tashkeel.

10am to 1pm, from 1,300 for the week, Tashkeel, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, www.tashkeel.org

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Amazing Oceans Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 4

Children in age groups four to five and six to nine can explore creatures of the sea in the Amazing Oceans Spring Camp at OliOli. The engaging, Steam-based projects include making scuba gear, building boats and creating 3-D cardboard figures.

9.30am to 1.30pm, from Dh250 per day; from Dh990 per week, OliOli, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, 04 702 7300, www.olioli.ae

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Dubai Sports City Spring Camp

Sunday, March 31 to Thursday, April 11

The Dubai Sport City spring camp lets children enjoy sports over the school break under the guidance of qualified coaches. Kids can choose among Spanish Soccer School, Claude Harmon III Performance Golf Academy, Dubai Eagles rugby, ICC Academy cricket and the Clarke Francis Tennis Academy.

8am to 4pm, from Dh150 per day; from Dh695 per week; from Dh795 per week when extended to 5pm, Sports Village, Dubai Sports City, Dubai, 04 448 1355, www.dsc.ae/sscamp.html

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FAMILY EVENTS / PLACES TO VISIT

Garden Souq at Dubai Garden Centre

Saturdays until March 30

Visit the weekly Garden Souq at Dubai Garden Centre and enjoy an outdoor market with fresh produce, organic and artisanal products, gluten-free and vegan foods, handicrafts, clothes, live music, food stalls and more.

10am to 2.30pm, Dubai Garden Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 04 590 4333, garden-centre@desertgroup.ae

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KidZ Detective at KidZania

Until Sunday, March 31

KidZ Detective at KidZania lets kids learn and practice the skills needed to become a super sleuth in a fun and educational way. There are four zones where kids can find clues, navigate a maze, collect fingerprints and analyse evidence to crack the case and save the day. Along the way, they will pick up skills including attention to detail, patience and problem solving.

From Dh35 with economy ticket purchase of Dh180; free with premium ticket purchase of Dh250, KidZania, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, 800 38224 6255, www.kidzania.ae

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Mommy & Me Mornings at XPark Jr

Mondays and Wednesdays

XPark Jr is where mothers and their children can escape the rush of the city and relax in the serene landscape for some quality time. Bring a blanket to spread out under the trees and let the little ones explore and discover. Entrance includes access to the mini petting farm, water play, natural climbing structures, mud kitchen and art and crafts. Mothers can enjoy tea or coffee and a pastry from Dh15.

8am to noon, from Dh25 for one child, XPark Jr, Kite Beach, Dubai, www.facebook.com/XParkJr

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Farmer’s Market by Baker & Spice

Fridays and Saturdays, ongoing

Visit the Farmer’s Market on Bay Avenue, Business Bay, where you can find a variety of fresh produce as well as organic baked sweet and savoury treats and a cooking station by Baker & Spice. Home-grown vendors sell fruits, vegetables, dates, honey, dairy products, flours and more. Plus, try organic ice cream, fruits and nuts, bone broth and other natural products. Children can enjoy the face-painting, arts and crafts, play area and skate park.

7am to 3pm, Bay Avenue, Business Bay, Dubai, 04 427 9856, www.facebook.com/TheFarmersMarketOnTheTerrace

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Wavehouse at Atlantis The Palm

Ongoing

Wavehouse is a new venue that combines live music, gaming, bowling, food and drinks and it all overlooks a state-of-the-art wave machine, the Wave Rider, which offers body-boarding and knee-boarding. Families can enjoy the rustic beach bar-style terrace that features a variety of seating areas, while other guests head inside to the adults-only bar, where there's a more industrial vibe. There is ten-pin bowling, a soft-play area for kids, plus arcade zone for all ages, complete with Xbox consoles, virtual reality experiences and the world's largest Pac-Man. Wavehouse Bar has live bands and DJs and Wavehouse Restaurant has healthy choices as well as comfort food with signature dishes such as deep-fried Babybels and rainbow sliders.

Noon to 1am, Wavehouse, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, reservations@atlantisthepalm.com

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Global Village

Until Saturday, April 13

The 23rd season of Global Village, the annual multicultural shopping and entertainment festival, features new additions including a larger Emirates pavilion; eight new bridges that replicate famous architecture; a floating market; a fiery musical fountain; an interactive children’s theatre; more than 100 video games in the Carnaval funfair; and a 50-metre screen on the Wheel of the World Ferris wheel showing live images of Dubai. Plus, all the street performances, concerts, international cuisine and world-class shopping that Global Village is known for.

4pm to midnight, Saturdays to Wednesdays (Mondays for women and families only); 4pm to 1am on Thursdays, Fridays and public holidays, from Dh15; free for children younger than 3, Exit 37, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, E311, Dubai, 04 362 4114, www.globalvillage.ae

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Festival Bay at Dubai Festival City Mall

Until Tuesday, April 30

Festival Bay at Dubai Festival City Mall has been transformed into Pirates of the Bay children’s fun park, a fun-filled park experience with games and activities for children. Families are invited to experience pirate-themed play areas, an inflatable slide, sand play, a bungee trampoline, a waterpark, arts and crafts, pizza-making, carnival games, popcorn, candy floss and more.

From 3pm to 10pm, Sundays to Wednesdays; 3pm to 11pm on Thursdays; from 10am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai, www.dubaifestivalcitymall.com

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Wavebreaker Beach Club

Book by Tuesday, April 30

Get a membership to Wavebreaker Beach Club at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah and enjoy access to the spa, gym and beach from Dh16 per day. The membership offers a great daycation option for the family, as there is a 25 per cent discount on food and beverage, as well as spa treatments. There is an additional fee for children aged six to 12, while children younger than six can enter on the membership for free.

From Dh1,500 for three months, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Dubai, 056 188 2766

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The Market at The Beach

Until Tuesday, April 30

Waterfront destination The Beach hosts the outdoor attraction, The Market, which offers an artisanal shopping experience in a picturesque, al fresco setting. There are 42 stalls featuring a range of items, including traditional arts and crafts, jewellery, scarves, handbags, designer abayas, graphic T-shirts, Arabic sweets, aromatic oils, perfumes, handmade soaps and collectibles from around the world.

10am to midnight, free entry, The Beach, JBR, Dubai, www.thebeach.ae

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The MOE Club House

Ongoing

Visit The MOE Club House at Mall of the Emirates, a trendy new food and leisure destination featuring homegrown food concepts and a game room with pool, minigolf and foosball. The New England-style community space offers light bites, coffee and sweet treats. When you spend Dh150 at Mall of the Emirates, children can enjoy The Little Club House, where they can unleash their imagination with arts and crafts, bird-house and cupcake decorating and more, plus a mini-market where they can sell their creations.

10am to 10pm, Sundays to Wednesdays; 10am to midnight, Thursdays to Saturdays, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, www.malloftheemirates.com

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VR Park Super 7 Pass

Ongoing

VR Park, the virtual and augmented reality theme park, offers the new Super 7 pass, which lets visitors pick any seven of the top 10 games, rides and journeys to experience. This includes Dubai Drone, Dune Bash and VR Maze, among others. The pass costs Dh180, which is a discount of 26 per cent on the original price of Dh245.

10am to 11pm, Sundays to Wednesdays; 10am to 1am, Thursday to Saturday, VR Park, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, www.vrparkdubai.com

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Dubai Garden Glow

Daily, ongoing

Visit Dubai Garden Glow and enjoy a recreational park featuring creative light installations, live musical shows and performances and an educational zone for children. There is also a food pavilion offering delicacies from around the world. In addition to the colourful light exhibitions, visit the Dinosaur Park with animatronic elements and the Ice Park featuring icy sculptures.

4pm to 11pm, Saturdays to Thursdays; 4pm to midnight on Fridays, from Dh65, Gates 6 and 7, Zabeel Park, Dubai, www.dubaigardenglow.com

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Air Maniax indoor adventure park

Daily, ongoing

Visit Air Maniax, a new indoor adventure park with activities for all ages, spread across five main zones: an inflatable arena, an interactive obstacle course, a gravity-based zip line, an arcade-style laser tag and dedicated toddler zones. There is a restaurant serving coffee, soft drinks and hot and cold food.

10am to 7pm, Saturdays to Wednesdays; 10am to 9pm on Thursdays and Fridays, from Dh80, Air Maniax, 16 Street 1, opposite Dynatrade, Al Quoz, Dubai, www.airmaniax.com

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Dubai Miracle Garden

Daily, ongoing

Dubai Miracle Garden returns for a seventh season with new floral masterpieces including a reimagined Disney Avenue, floral castle, floating beds and more. There is an amphitheatre with live music, dance and Zumba sessions; an interactive kids’ play zone with a trampoline; two lakes in the form of a tree with seven-metre-high fountains; life-size elephant sculpture fountains; 12-metre 3D sculptures of animal characters and a flower display in 3D mapping.

9am to 9pm, Sundays to Thursdays; 9am to 11pm, Fridays and Saturdays, from Dh50, Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand, Dubai, 04 422 8902, www.dubaimiraclegarden.com

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3-D Blacklight Minigolf

Daily, ongoing

Visit the 3D Blacklight Minigolf, which features a brightly coloured glow-in-the-dark, 18-hole course. The venue is hand painted by top 3D artists, transporting players of all ages to different worlds. The indoor location is fun for families, sports fans and friends.

2pm to 11.30pm, from Dh90, all ages, 3-D Blacklight Minigolf, Plaza Level, Bahar 1, JBR, Dubai, 04 565 7621, glowingrooms.ae

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Countdown Challenge

Daily, ongoing

Countdown Challenge is an escape room for puzzle lovers, where teams of two to 10 people have a time limit of one hour to escape. Each room presents its own intriguing storyline, challenging players’ wit, creativity and patience.

3pm to midnight, from Dh110, all ages, but children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult, Plaza Level, Bahar 1, JBR, Dubai, 04 427 4027, www.countdowndxb.com

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Pizza-making workshop at 800 Degrees Pizzeria

Daily, ongoing

800 Degrees Pizzeria lets children become junior master chefs as they get creative, work in teams and learn the joy of cooking and baking. Kids will learn how to make Neapolitan pizzas from scratch including kneading the dough and topping the pies with fresh ingredients such as tomato sauce, mozzarella, chicken, mushrooms, green peppers and fresh basil leaves. They will get a chef cap and apron to wear and will receive a junior pizzaiolo certificate, their pizza and a scoop of gelato.

From Dh69, 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, City Centre Me’asiem; Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, 800 3347337, www.800degreesme.com

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Dubai Parks and Resorts annual pass

Daily, ongoing

Purchase an annual pass to Dubai Parks and Resorts and enjoy one year of unlimited access to all four parks, deals in retail stores, discounts at cafes and restaurants, plus free parking and discounts at Lapita Hotel. There is also 10 per cent off single-day tickets, a bonus for friends and family who visit. Experience more than 100 rides and attractions at Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park Dubai.

From Dh345 for one park; from Dh475 for two parks; from Dh595 for all four parks, Dubai Parks & Resorts, Dubai, www.dubaiparksandresorts.com

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Dig It

Daily, ongoing

Children ages 3 to 10 can enjoy an educational and interactive experience at Dig It, a play environment based on a working building site where they work together to dig, move, build and create. Kids can climb aboard a digger, operate remote-controlled cars, take driving lessons and enjoy workshops and sand play.

10am to 10pm, from Dh100 for the Drop & Play ticket, which includes two hours of play with trained staff, The Springs Souk, Dubai, digitdubai.com

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TEPfactor adventure experience

Daily, ongoing

Visit JBR to experience the new TEPfactor, an adventure experience that takes place in a cave, where teams of two to six people take on 21 challenges that put their physical, mental, teamwork and co-operation skills to the test. Racing against the clock, the groups take part in puzzles, balancing acts, tests of patience, heroic feats and team challenges to progress to the next task. Up to 15 teams can participate at a time, and participants are encouraged to wear comfortable, activewear and trainers. There are also group sessions available for corporate organisations.

10am to midnight, Sundays to Wednesdays, from Dh80 per hour; 10am to 1am, Thursdays to Saturdays, from Dh100 per hour, ages 8+, TEPfactor, The Walk, JBR, Dubai, 04 398 8438, www.tepfactor.ae

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Dubai Bowling Center

Daily, ongoing

Dubai Bowling Center offers a fun atmosphere with 16 professional-series lanes, black-and-white movies on projectors above the lanes, an arcade with classic old-school games, and The Zone area with e-gaming options. There is also trampoline playground, a private party hall and toddler play area. The in-house restaurant Yamu offers quirky burgers and freak shakes inspired by gaming culture.

10am to midnight, Sundays to Wednesdays; 10am to 1am, Thursdays to Saturdays, Dubai Bowling Center, Al Quoz, 28th Street and Al Meydan Road, Dubai, 04 339 1010, bowlingdubai.com

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La Perle

Tuesdays to Saturdays, ongoing

Get tickets to see La Perle, a live theatrical performance influenced by Dubai’s rich culture and history and produced by renowned creative director Franco Dragone. The permanent resident show is a fusion of artistic performances, imagery and technology featuring aquatic and aerial feats as well as special effects.

Tuesdays to Saturdays, shows at 7pm and 9.30pm Tuesdays to Fridays; 4pm and 7pm on Saturdays, from Dh252 for the summer offer, Al Habtoor City, Dubai, 800 517373, www.laperle.com

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Wild Wadi Waterpark Residents Offer

Offer valid throughout the winter

Wild Wadi Waterpark is offering UAE residents a special discount on tickets this winter. Enjoy all the excitement of a wide selection from more than 30 rides and attractions, including 13 that are interconnected for a seamless experience. Highlights include the lazy river, wave pool; an aquatic roller-coaster ride, and the famous Jumeirah Sceirah slide.

Open 10am to 6pm, from Dh149 for general admission for 1.1 metres and taller; from Dh69 for below 1.1m, Wild Wadi Waterpark, Jumeirah, Dubai, www.jumeirah.com

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KidZania annual pass

Daily, ongoing

KidZania has launched an annual pass, giving unlimited access to the mini-city, where children can explore and role-play various professions in a fun learning environment. Plus, the passes come with a KidZania “Pazzport”, fast-track tickets, invitations to special events, discounts on skating sessions at Dubai Ice Rink and more including the chance to try the new virtual reality fire-awareness activity.

Valid for 12 months from purchase date, from Dh550 for a silver pass; from Dh950 for a gold pass, KidZania, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, www.kidzania.ae

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Ripe Market

Saturdays, ongoing

Visit a Ripe Market to stock up on produce, shop for gifts and enjoy the community spirit at any of its several venues. Find seasonal organic produce grown locally, as well as a variety of superfoods, juices, honey, eggs and essential pantry items. There are vendors selling gift items such as jewellery and clothing, live music and entertainment, fitness classes, yoga, children’s activities, workshops and more.

9am to 5pm, Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, www.ripeme.com

SHARJAH

Rain Room

Daily, ongoing

Visit the Rain Room at Sharjah Art Foundation, an immersive installation by Random International that lets you walk through a downpour of rain without getting wet. Combining art, technology and nature, the exhibition is 2,500 litres of self-cleaning, recycled water, which is controlled through a system of cameras and sensors that signal nozzles on the ceiling to stop within a two-metre radius, when it senses someone walking.

9am to 9pm, Saturdays to Thursdays; 4pm to 11pm on Fridays, from Dh25, Sharjah Art Foundation, Sharjah, 06 561 0095, rainroom@sharjahart.org

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ART EXHIBITIONS

Fabric(ated) Fractures

Until Saturday, March 23

Fabric(ated) Fractures is an exhibition of works by artists from Bangladesh and South and Southeast Asia, and explores sensitive spaces: those that challenge ideas of nation, state and territory. The community-based artworks break down national and regional narratives and reformulate them from a more local and human perspective through drawings, photographs, mixed-media with textiles and more. Pictured: Haven Is Elsewhere by Kamruzzaman Shadhin

10am to 7pm, Concrete, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, www.alserkalavenue.ae

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An exhibition of works by Bernardo Rosendo Ponce

Until Monday, March 25

See an exhibition of works by Mexican artist Bernardo Rosendo Ponce, whose craftsmanship of decorative gourds and wooden objects promotes the traditional art of Olinala, in southwestern Mexico. The Mexican embassy is highlighting the artist’s efforts in restoring the heritage crafts of his region.

8am to 8pm daily, Atrium 6, Building 6, Dubai Design District, Dubai, www.dubaidesigndistrict.com

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Korean Art – A Contemporary Take on Texture

Until Thursday, March 28

See a curated exhibition of works in Korean Art – A Contemporary Take on Texture at Opera Gallery, in which 19 Korean artists present works that highlight texture and each artist’s relationship with their medium. The exhibition covers trends from traditional Korean art, the Dansaekhwa Movement of the 1970s and the Minjung Misol from the 1980s. Materials used include oil paint, ink, Hanji paper from the Korean mulberry tree and industrial items such as cycle chains, steel nails and copper piping. Pictured: An Aggregation by Bahk Seonghi

From 8pm on March 13, then 10am to 10pm, Sundays to Wednesdays; 2pm to 9pm (Fridays); 11am to 9pm (Saturdays) at Opera Gallery, Gate Village Building 3, DIFC, Dubai, 04 323 0909, www.operagallery.com

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International Women Photographers Association exhibition

Until Saturday, March 30

See photographs by the 11 finalists of the 2019 International Women Photographers Association competition, including the laureate Wan Chee Chan of Hong Kong and finalists from Iran, France, UK, Ukraine, Mexico, Spain and Romania. The images were selected under the theme of fraternity as well as a free category. More than 600 amateur and professional female photographers from 82 countries submitted images for the award, which aims to redress gender imbalance in photography and promote women’s voices in the industry. The inaugural exhibition will be held in Dubai and will then travel to cities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Opens 7.30pm on March 6, then runs until March 30, 9am to 8pm, Sundays to Wednesdays; 9am to 5pm, Thursdays and Saturdays (closed on Fridays), La Galerie, Alliance Francaise Dubai, Oud Metha, Dubai, 04 335 8712, www.afdubai.org

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Play

Until Wednesday, April 24

See the exhibition Play at Tashkeel. More than 30 artists from the UAE explore various facets of play – impulsiveness, irrationality, joy and nostalgia – through a variety of media including painting, textiles, installations, video and photography. Pictured: The Game Must Go On by Sonu Sultania

10am to 10pm, Saturdays to Thursdays (closed Fridays), Tashkeel, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, 04 336 3313, www.tashkeel.org

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Between Macro and Micro

Wednesday, April 3 to Wednesday, April 24

See the exhibition Between Macro and Micro by French artist Benedicte Gimonnet, whose abstract paintings of organic shapes and geometric forms explore the power and fragility of light. Through her works, she aims to understand what shapes the matrix of the universe and to imagine the structure of creative energy. Pictured: A detail of Globule V

9am to 8pm, Sundays to Wednesdays; 9am to 5pm, Thursdays and Saturdays (closed on Fridays), La Galerie, Alliance Francaise Dubai, Oud Metha, Dubai, 04 335 8712, www.afdubai.org

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Strange Fruit

Until Wednesday, May 1

Strange Fruit is an exhibition by Lebanese artist Tagreed Darghouth, who is concerned with socio-political issues prevalent in Lebanon and beyond, such as cosmetic surgery, domestic workers, death, war, identity and displacement. She produces paintings that are uncomfortable, confronting and challenging, but also technically brilliant.

10am to 8pm, Sundays to Thursdays (closed Fridays and Saturdays), Tabari Artspace, The Gate Village Building 3, Level 2, DIFC, Dubai, 04 323 0820, www.tabariartspace.com

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Wings of Mexico

Until Wednesday, May 8

The outdoor sculpture Wings of Mexico, created by Mexican artist Jorge Marin, arrives in Dubai after travelling to Kuwait, Egypt, Singapore, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Abu Dhabi. Created in 2010, the artwork has become a symbol of the hopes and dreams of Mexico’s citizens, and also promotes the country’s creative spirit.

Open all day, Emaar Sales Centre, Downtown Dubai, www.jorgemarin.com.mx

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Visual Dialogues: The Book of Kings

Until Thursday, May 30

The Book of Kings is the latest exhibition in the Total Arts series Visual Dialogues, which features juxtaposed works by contemporary artists Shirin Neshat and Fereydoun Ave that focus on the Book of Kings, the epic poems of the 10th century. See images in a variety of genres, including mixed media, sketches and collage.

10am to 6pm Saturdays to Thursdays (closed Fridays), Total Arts, The Courtyard, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz, 04 347 5050, www.facebook.com/totalartsuae

SHARJAH

The Inner Landscape

Until Thursday, March 28

The Inner Landscape is an exhibition of works by Ria Sharma whose monochromatic Cubist images feature vibrantly coloured subjects performing dance, music and meditation. Sharma has an engineering background and her art expresses the analysis, break-down and reassembly of objects in an abstracted form. Pictured: Lyrical Soul Ballerina

7pm to 9pm on March 15; then 9am to 10pm daily, International Radiology Centre Gallery, Egyptian Trade Centre, Sharjah, 600 588887, www.irc.ae

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