UAE: Top things to do in the country from April 11-13
The weekend is here, so is our guide to the best events and activities happening around the UAE. Here's the list:
A new multi-sensory adventure
SENSAS, the globally popular multi-sensory adventure from France, has arrived in Dubai, offering a unique 2-hour group experience that challenges all five senses through immersive, often darkened workshops. Ideal for families, friends, and team-building, participants solve tactile puzzles, taste mystery flavours, and navigate laser rooms, all while collecting sensory tokens that support a charitable cause for people with disabilities. Partnered with Fever, SENSAS makes its Dubai debut as a one-of-a-kind experience designed to surprise, connect, and entertain guests of all ages.
Celebrate Songkran Festival in Dubai
Toshi at the Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai is celebrating Thailand's vibrant Songkran Festival on Sunday, April 13, from 6.30pm to 11pm with a festive evening featuring authentic Thai cuisine. Guests can enjoy a special Thai buffet and à la carte menu featuring live cooking stations serving classics like Tom Yum soup, Papaya Salad, Pad Thai, and traditional desserts. The celebration will also include raffle draws with exciting gift vouchers, all set in Toshi's warm and inviting ambiance. Reservations are required.
Stick around and find out
Heinz is launching the world's first ad interrupted by a movie, rewarding moviegoers who stay through the end credits with free limited-edition merch and exclusive deals. Until April 11 at Dubai Mall Reel Cinemas, attendees watching Mickey 17, or The Amateur can unlock these giveaways by sticking around after the film ends — making the wait as worth it as their iconic ketchup.
Art nights
DIFC Art Nights returns for its 19th edition, transforming Gate Village into a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and creativity until April 13. Running daily from 5pm to 10pm, the free event features live performances, public art installations, and engaging panel discussions, including a focus on women in art on opening night and talks by Christie's and Dubai Culture on April 11. With contributions from leading voices like Dr Dena Assaf and Arne Everwijn, plus a showcase of everything from pottery to AI-generated art, this four-day cultural extravaganza cements DIFC's role as a significant artistic hub in the UAE.
Egyptian-American artist Felukah to perform
Dubai gets a chic new addition with the grand opening of GABA on April 12 in Dubai Marina. A serene tea room by day and a vintage glamour speakeasy by night, GABA blends heritage, luxury, and mystery. Its debut will feature a one-night-only live performance by Egyptian-American artist Felukah, known for her genre-blending sound and viral hit Al Wad Kadab. Guests can expect curated Asian teas, GABA-infused wellness blends, crafted beverages, rotating pop-art exhibits, and exclusive events. Entry starts at Dh150 and details will be revealed upon booking. Follow @gaba.dubai for updates.
Relax and rejuvenate
The Recovery Retreat at Talise Spa, Madinat Jumeirah offers a luxurious three-hour wellness experience designed to restore and recharge body and mind. Priced at Dh1,600, the retreat includes a 45-minute Reformer Pilates session, 45-minute Detox Dome Therapy using infrared and light technology, and a 90-minute deep-tissue Muscle Recovery Massage. Ideal for those facing stress, fatigue, or an active lifestyle, the retreat takes place in the serene surroundings of Jumeirah Al Qasr. To book, contact mjtalise@jumeirah.com or call 04 366 6818.
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