Exciting Things to Do in Dubai This April 2025
This month offers something for everyone, from large-scale concerts and international exhibitions to cultural showcases and outdoor activities. Here's a look at some of the most exciting events happening in Dubai throughout April 2025. ToDA – Art Masters Nights: Art Dubai Special Edition
9, 10, 14 & 16 April
The Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) returns this April with a curated visual experience that blends technology and timeless masterpieces. As part of the Art Dubai cultural wave, Art Masters Nights offers a limited-time chance to explore three stunning digital art showcases in one immersive evening.
Journey through Monet's impressionist strokes, Klimt's golden dreamscapes, and Van Gogh's emotive colors, all brought to life in 360° projections. Rather than booking individual shows, guests can now enjoy two or three experiences in a single night at a discounted rate.
Location: Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA), Souk Madinat Jumeirah The Little Mermaid
11 - 20 April
This April, dive into an enchanting retelling of The Little Mermaid at the Meyana Auditorium in Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Brought to life by H2 Productions and the Dubai Panto Team, the classic tale unfolds with a magical blend of music, laughter, and underwater charm.
Follow the young mermaid's journey as she dreams of a life above the sea, navigating love, sacrifice, and the schemes of the mischievous Sea Witch Hysteria. With a lively cast of sea creatures, catchy songs, and moments of heartwarming humour, this family musical promises a fun-filled experience for audiences of all ages.
Location: Meyana Auditorium, Jumeirah Beach Hotel McGettigan's Late Late Paddy's Party – The Script Live in Dubai
12 April
St. Patrick's Day may fall during Ramadan this year, but McGettigan's keeps the spirit alive with a special post-holiday celebration. On April 12, Dubai Media City Amphitheatre will host The Late Late Paddy's Party , a full-day festival headlined by Irish rock icons The Script.
Get ready for a 12-hour outdoor music experience featuring sing-along anthems, festival vibes, and live performances under the stars. Supporting acts include Dublin's very own The Coronas, with more artists and DJs set to be announced. The venue will also feature food trucks, pop-up bars, and grassy spaces perfect for soaking in the springtime energy.
Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre Adnan Sami Live
12 April
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Music icon Adnan Sami is set to return to Dubai for an unforgettable night of melodies, memories, and musical mastery. Performing live at the Coca-Cola Arena, the celebrated singer, pianist, and composer will take fans through a soul-stirring journey featuring his most iconic tracks and fresh renditions.
This special one-night-only concert promises a vibrant mix of his multilingual hits spanning Hindi, Urdu, English, and more. Expect emotional ballads like Bhar Do Jholi Meri , timeless classics like Tera Chehra , and piano-led showstoppers that showcase the maestro's signature style.
Location: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk What's On Dubai Awards 2025
16 April
The What's On Dubai Awards 2025 is the UAE's largest public-voted hospitality awards ceremony, shining a spotlight on excellence in food, nightlife, and entertainment. This annual extravaganza brings together the crème de la crème of Dubai's hospitality and entertainment sectors to celebrate the city's top venues and personalities. It's the industry's most glamorous night of the year, an engaging evening where your favorite restaurants, bars, and events are crowned winners by popular vote.
Attended by key figures from Dubai's hospitality and entertainment industries, the event highlights excellence across multiple categories, from fine dining and nightlife to cafés, brunches, and beyond. It's a night of recognition, celebration, and red-carpet moments, all backed by the voices of the public.
Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre Short+Sweet 2025
12 April to 1 June
Dubai's favourite bite-sized theatre festival returns for its 13th edition! Short+Sweet 2025 kicks off on April 12 at The Junction in Alserkal Avenue, delivering powerful stories in just ten minutes. With over 70 plays lined up, expect a mix of monologues, musicals, comedies, and dramas—all competing for a spot in the Gala Finals.
This year's theme, 'Big Stories. Small Packages.' , captures the festival's spirit of storytelling with impact. Special highlights include the Regional Language Week (April 26–27) and Theme Week: Hometown Tales (May 3–4), bringing cultural diversity and personal narratives to the stage.
Location: The Junction, Alserkal Avenue Art Dubai 2025 at Madinat Jumeirah
18 - 20 April
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Dubai's most anticipated cultural event returns this April with Art Dubai 2025 at the Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre. Featuring over 100 galleries from 60+ cities, the fair showcases cutting-edge contemporary works, 20th-century modern art, digital installations, and emerging voices from across the Global South.
This year's highlights include the seventh edition of Bawwaba, the Global Art Forum, and the fourth edition of Art Dubai Digital, offering a bold look into the intersection of art and technology. Expect interactive exhibitions, public talks, live performances, and curated after-hour gatherings—all in one expansive venue.
Location: Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre Spartan Race: The Arena – From Dawn Til' Dusk
19 April
Get ready to push your limits at the Spartan Race: The Arena, happening on April 19 at Bab Al Shams. This all-day event blends intense athletic competition with festival vibes, set against the dramatic desert landscape.
Participants can choose between the 5km Sprint or the 10km Super Race, both designed to challenge strength, endurance, and mental grit. Younger racers aren't left out either, with a 1–3km Spartan Kids Race offering a fun, family-friendly option.
With waves starting throughout the day, recovery zones, live entertainment, and curated F&B offerings, this is more than just a race; it's an experience.
Location: The Arena, Bab Al Shams Ayed Yousef & Oumaima Taleb Live
19 April
Two powerful voices, one unforgettable night. Saudi sensation Ayed Yousef and Tunisian star Oumaima Taleb will share the stage at Coca-Cola Arena, bringing their chart-topping hits and soul-stirring performances to Dubai's biggest indoor venue.
Expect a night filled with regional favourites like Ana Wenty , Hala Ya Mahmoud , and Ma Ahla Kalami , along with powerful vocal performances that showcase each artist's unique style. With careers shaped by talent shows and soaring success, both artists promise an evening full of emotion, energy, and artistry.
Location: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk Hamlet: The Rest is Silence
25 - 27 April
Shakespeare's most haunting tragedy returns to the stage with a modern edge in Hamlet: The Rest is Silence for a limited three-night run at Live at Play, Warehouse B17 in Al Quoz.
Presented by MacGyvers Performing Arts in collaboration with Cross Bronx Studios, this bold retelling strips the play to its core, exploring power, madness, and the fragile nature of truth through a contemporary lens. Featuring a mix of seasoned performers and rising UAE-based talent, it's an unflinching dive into legacy, betrayal, and the psyche of one of literature's most complex characters.
Location: Live at Play, Warehouse B17, ABA Avenue, Al Quoz
April doesn't pause for the summer; it's a celebration of everything that makes Dubai unique. This month brings together global artistry, live music, theatre, fitness, and immersive experiences, all woven into the rhythm of city life.
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a curious local, or just visiting for a while, April is your cue to step out, try something new, and be part of a city that's always moving, always creating. Also Read:
Dubai Showcases Aquatic Excellence with Open Water and Water Polo Events at DIAC
The Dubai International Aquatics Championships (DIAC) continued to make waves with its open water swimming and water polo competitions, held on April 5 and 6 at the Hamdan Sports Complex.
Dubai World Cup Finale Sets New Guinness Record with Dazzling Drone Show
In a spectacular conclusion to the 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup, the Meydan Racecourse became the stage for a groundbreaking visual performance that set a new Guinness World Record.
Middle East Energy 2025 Set to Power Regional Transformation with Record-Breaking Edition
Middle East Energy (MEE) 2025 opens tomorrow at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), marking the largest and most ambitious edition in the event's 49-year history.
Dubai to Host Region's Largest AI Gathering at Machines Can See Summit 2025
Dubai is set to host the third edition of Machines Can See, the Gulf region's largest computer vision and AI summit, on April 23–24.
Dubai World Cup 2025: Hit Show Claims Historic Win as Billion Watch Global Racing Spectacle
The 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup came to a dazzling close last night at Meydan Racecourse, delivering yet another unforgettable chapter in global horse racing.
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Hi Dubai
05-08-2025
- Hi Dubai
The Top 15 Events in Dubai: August 2025
Dubai in August is a vibrant hub of activity, defying the summer heat with an exciting lineup of indoor events catering to diverse interests. From captivating musical performances and side-splitting comedy shows to engaging cultural experiences and invigorating sports challenges, the city offers a plethora of opportunities to stay entertained and engaged. This curated guide highlights 15 of the best events taking place across Dubai throughout August 2025, promising a month filled with unforgettable moments. Dubai Sports World 2025 @ Dubai World Trade Centre Date: August 3 - September 2 View this post on Instagram A post shared by HudHudTrip (@ Beat the summer heat and stay active at Dubai Sports World 2025, a sprawling indoor sports complex at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Running for an entire month, this event offers an extensive lineup of sports, leagues, and tournaments in a fully air-conditioned environment. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a casual enthusiast, there is something for everyone, including football, basketball, padel, badminton, and tennis. The highlight includes various fitness challenges and potential celebrity athlete appearances. Aladdin The Musical @ Meyana Auditorium, Jumeirah Beach Hotel Date: August 12-27 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wow Emirates (@ Description of Event: Step into the magical world of Agrabah with "Aladdin" the musical at the Meyana Auditorium. This stage production brings the classic Disney tale to life with dazzling costumes, spectacular choreography, and unforgettable songs. Follow the adventures of a charming street urchin named Aladdin, a powerful Genie, and the courageous Princess Jasmine. This family-friendly show offers a captivating theatrical experience filled with humour, romance, and adventure. The Little Mermaid The Musical @ Meyana Auditorium, Jumeirah Beach Hotel Date: August 13-26 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wow Emirates (@ Description of Event: Dive "Under the Sea" with "The Little Mermaid," a delightful stage musical at the Meyana Auditorium. The show follows Ariel, a curious mermaid who dreams of living on land, and her journey to find her voice and true love. This vibrant production features beloved songs like "Part of Your World" and "Kiss the Girl," alongside breathtaking visual effects that bring the underwater world to life. It's a perfect treat for families and children. Best of Anime by Dreamlight @ Zabeel Theatre, Dubai Date: August 15 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zabeel Theatre (@artforalluae) Description of Event: Calling all anime fans! "Best of Anime by Dreamlight" is a unique musical concert at Zabeel Theatre that celebrates the iconic soundtracks of popular anime series. 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Expect special performances in malls, flash sales, and themed events appealing to all ages. Keep an eye on the Dubai Calendar for specific DSS events happening each week in August. Alice in Wonderland The Musical @ Meyana Auditorium, Jumeirah Beach Hotel Date: August 19-23 Description of Event: Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and into the fantastical world of "Alice in Wonderland" at the Meyana Auditorium. This theatrical production is a whimsical and colorful adaptation of Lewis Carroll's classic story, featuring eccentric characters and a visually stunning set. Treasure Island The Musical @ Meyana Auditorium, Jumeirah Beach Hotel Date: August 20-24 Description of Event: Set sail on a swashbuckling adventure with "Treasure Island" the musical at the Meyana Auditorium. This exciting production tells the thrilling story of young Jim Hawkins and his quest to find a hidden treasure, complete with pirates and epic sea battles. Natalie Imbruglia Live @ Dubai Opera Date: August 23 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Opera (@dubaiopera) Description of Event: Live Nation Middle East presents an unforgettable evening with the acclaimed singer-songwriter Natalie Imbruglia at the stunning Dubai Opera. Best known for her global hit "Torn," Imbruglia will treat fans to a performance spanning her impressive career. Timings: Doors open at 7:30 pm. The starts at 8:00 pm. Ticket price: Starting from AED 295 Macy Gray - On How Life Is 25th Anniversary Tour @ Coca-Cola Arena Date: August 29 Description of Event: Celebrate a quarter-century of a music masterpiece as Macy Gray brings her "On How Life Is 25th Anniversary Tour" to the Coca-Cola Arena. The iconic singer will perform her debut album in its entirety, including hits like "I Try." 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Ticket price: Starting from AED 159 The Laughter Factory August Comedy Tour @ Multiple Locations Date: 15 - 23 August Description of Event: The Laughter Factory, Dubai's longest-running comedy club, hosts its August Comedy Tour at various venues across the city. Expect a lineup of international stand-up comedians bringing their latest and greatest jokes to Dubai audiences. This is a fantastic way to enjoy a night out filled with laughter and discover new comedic talent. Dubai continues to offer a dynamic and engaging environment even during the peak of summer. With a diverse array of events, residents and tourists alike can find numerous ways to make the most of August 2025. Remember to check the provided links for the most up-to-date information and ticket availability. Also Read: DIFC Art Nights to Celebrate 20th Edition This November with Open Call for Artists DIFC Art Nights returns 13–16 Nov 2025 for its 20th edition. 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Gulf Today
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Open call for submissions for 7th Ithra Art Prize announced by KSA
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has announced the open call for the 7th edition of the biennial Ithra Art Prize, an art grant supporting contemporary art across the Arab world. Submissions officially opened on July 24 and will be accepted till October 16, 2025. Founded in 2017, the prize is a valuable platform for artists from the region. With a grand award of USD 100,000, the winning artwork will find a permanent home in Ithra's forever art collection. In a significant expansion from previous years, the prize, through an appointed jury, will bestow production grants to five finalists for showcasing their work in an exhibition at Ithra, in the spring of 2026. The exhibition is a new highlight of the prize, as it returns the award to its home in KSA's Eastern Province, contributing to the artists' evolving legacies and aiming to amplify the discourse on contemporary art in the region. The final winner will be selected during the course of the exhibition. As part of its evolving approach, both new commissions and also recontextualised existing works, are eligible to apply. The Ithra Art Prize recognises artists whose practices are intellectually engaged, contextually grounded, and developed through sustained inquiry over time. Submitted works must also reflect artists' ongoing practice and research. The prize is open to individual artists and collectives aged 18 and older, should be of Arab heritage or be currently residing in one of the 22 Arab countries. E Pluribus Unum by Nadia Kaabi-Linke. Farah Abushullaih, Head of Ithra's Museum, said that 'the Ithra Art Prize supports artists who engage creatively and critically with conditions and ideas that speak to the diverse contexts of our region. The 7th Edition of the Ithra Art Prize marks a homecoming that expands the Prize's scope through an exhibition at Ithra, featuring multiple works in dialogue with one another.' The Ithra Art Prize is a premier platform for contemporary artists and celebrates a wide range of practices and perspectives. Past winners have exhibited at leading institutions within the Kingdom and internationally. They include Ayman Zedani (2018) for Mem, unveiled at Art Dubai; Daniah Al Saleh (2019), who won the second edition with Sawtam, an audiovisual installation based on Arabic phonemes, also unveiled at Art Dubai and exhibited later at the State Hermitage Museum, Russia; and Fahad bin Naif (2020), awarded for Rakhm, an installation exploring themes of environmental preservation and urban ecosystems. In 2021, Nadia Kaabi-Linke won with E Pluribus Unum, presented at the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale. E Pluribus Unum explored the impact of the global pandemic. The following year, Adel Abidin (2023), an Iraqi-Finnish artist, received the fifth edition prize for his large-scale installation ON. Most recently, in 2024, Obaid Alsafi was the sixth edition winner for his evocative installation Palms in Eternal Embrace, which debuted at the AlUla Arts Festival. Obaid's piece drew inspiration from Saudi Arabia's rich history and landscapes, referencing the 5,000-year-old sandstone pillars found in the artist's birthplace, the historical town of Qaryat Al Faw, and the ancient Rajajil Columns found in Al Jawf region, north of Saudi Arabia. Not only an architectural marvel, the Rajajil Columns were used to observe the stars and seasonal changes, and has recently provided evidence of the effects of climate change in the Arabian Peninsula. With its 7th edition, the Ithra Art Prize continues its founding mission of supporting artistic excellence, connecting Arab creatives to global audiences, and nurturing a thriving cultural ecosystem across the region and beyond. The Ithra Art Prize is one of the most significant awards dedicated to contemporary artists from or based in the 22 Arab countries. The biannual prize initially focused on Saudi and Saudi-based artists, and later expanded its fourth edition to include practices from across the wider Arab region. Farah Abushullaih, Head of Ithra's Museum. Offered by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), the prize's mandate is to spark cultural curiosity, foster original thought and expression, and celebrate work that reflects intellectually engaged and contextually responsive approaches. The winning artist is awarded by an international jury with a USD 100,000 grant, and his or her work is acquired by the Ithra Collection, helping shape both their artistic legacy and furthering the evolving discourse of contemporary Arab art. With every edition, Ithra aims to contribute to the region's creative ecosystem by providing a platform for contemporary artists to project their talent and forge partnerships with leading regional institutions, including Art Dubai, the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, and the AlUla Arts Festival. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) — meaning 'enrichment' in Arabic — was built as part of Saudi Aramco's vision to create an ambitious initiative for the public. Ithra is the Kingdom's leading cultural and creative destination for talent development and cross-cultural experiences. Since its inaugural in 2018, each of Ithra's programmes has served as windows to global experiences, celebrating human potential and empowering creativity. Ithra's operating pillars include culture, creativity, community, art, and knowledge. With the visionary platforms and key initiatives, the art and culture body offers workshops, performances, and events. The leading cultural destination is located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. With a focus on enriching people's lives by offering impactful cultural and creative programmes and initiatives, since its opening Ithra has also become a distinguished architectural landmark that houses the Idea Lab, Library, Theater, Museum, Cinema, Great Hall, Energy Exhibit, Children's Museum and Knowledge Tower.
What's On
23-07-2025
- What's On
Meet Gahwa Beats Dubai's new coffee shop rave
If you're looking to fuel your summer with something a little different, Gahwa Beats is brewing up something special for coffee shop raves. Launching this Saturday July 26, the brand-new Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) event is set to bring the heat (and the coffee) with a series of high-energy, citywide pop-up parties all celebrating Dubai's vibrant coffee culture. Taking place every Saturday until August 23, Gahwa Beats is your ultimate espresso shot to the soul, a fusion of electrifying DJ sets, live music, dynamic dance shows, and bold brews by DRVN coffee. Each edition promises an immersive experience in a different locations around the city, with a ticket that includes entry and one free coffee for just Dhs100. Where the summer really starts The first edition kicks off at the Theatre of Digital Arts (TODA), Souk Madinat Jumeirah on Saturday, July 26 from 10am to 2pm. Expect an unforgettable atmosphere as the venue transforms into a multisensory celebration of music, movement and coffee-fuelled energy. Internationally renowned DJ Akmaral will headline opening day with her signature mix of house, electronic and techno, guaranteed to get the whole crowd moving. With immersive visuals and performance art all wrapped into one unique venue, TODA is the perfect launchpad for this caffeine-charged series. More than just a party This isn't just a DJ night or a coffee tasting, it's a curated celebration of local culture, creative energy, and the city's love affair with coffee. From aesthetic pop-up settings to surprise performances and musical mixes that reflect the city's pulse, Gahwa Beats is where you come to vibe, sip, dance, and connect. Each Saturday will bring a fresh location and a new flavour of the experience, so be sure to check to track the weekly venue drops. The details Location: Various locations across Dubai Date: Every Saturday from July 26 to August 23 Time: 10am to 2pm Tickets: From Dhs100, includes 1 free coffee We've rounded up 8 of the best garden cafés in Dubai where nature, great coffee, and aesthetic interiors come together. Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
