Top things to do in Dubai from May 2–5: From exploring Arab cinema to 'Star Wars' cosplay

Khaleej Times

20-05-2025

The weekend vibe is in full swing, and Dubai is buzzing with all the right energy, as always. So, whether you're in the mood for tacos, moonlit dips, or catching a soulful Sudanese performance on opening night at Cinema Akil, here are our top picks to make your plans anything but ordinary.
Hop aboard the Mangalore Express
From May 1–15, Kovalam Restaurant is transforming into the Mangalore Express — a coastal culinary journey packed with spice and soul. From Kundapura curries to Kudla beverages, it's a delicious ode to the Konkan coast. So, sip on some kokum-infused concoctions, dig into jackfruit cutlets, and don't forget to save room for the iconic 'Gadbad' dessert (yes, it's as fun as it sounds). Find out more on: @kovalam.restaurant
Cinco de Mayo
Grab your sombreros, Dubai, because Rodeo Drive is throwing its biggest Cinco de Mayo bash yet on May 5, and it's ten years in the making! Expect taco trolleys, glow face painting, and Dh19 taco + beverage combos (yes, really). With live Mexican beats, zingy beverages, and a menu that covers it all, this fiesta is bringing all the flavour and flair. Find out more on: @rodeodrivedubai
'Doughnut' miss this
London's cult-fave bakery Bread Ahead has officially touched down in City Centre Mirdif, and your sweet tooth is about to thank you. Famed for its ooey-gooey Pistachio and Vanilla doughnuts, this third UAE outpost also dishes out artisanal pastries, sourdough pizzas, and smooth specialty coffee — basically, carb heaven. Go for the doughnuts, stay for everything else. For more info, visit breadahead.com
A Turkish twist
Wind down your weekend the Turkish way at Sur.Dubai's Chillingir Pazar Rakısı — a Sunday night affair of meze, and mellow throwback vibes. Tuck into classic bites like haydari, ezme, and marinated seafood alongside nostalgic '80s–'90s Turkish tunes, warm lighting, and that unmistakable Mediterranean charm. For bookings, call: [phone] or
visit surdubai.com
Lights, camera, culture
Volume 4 of Arab Cinema Week is rolling in on May 2 — and if you love soulful stories, indie vibes and a generous dose of popcorn, this one's for you. Hosted at Cinema Akil, the fest is a deep dive into Arab storytelling at its finest. So, grab your cinephile crew, and let the reels roll. For more details, visit: @cinemaakil or cinemaakil.com
Calling all superfans
Get ready for a weekend of capes, comics, and cosmic vibes! COMICAVE is going all out on May 3–4 with a pop culture extravaganza at Dubai Outlet Mall. Think free comic book giveaways, Star Wars cosplay galore, gaming tournaments, and a chance to meet international comic artists — all under one dome. The event is free to enter, from 12pm-9pm. More info on: @comicave
Take the plunge
Rooftop pool, skyline views and Riviera vibes? Yes, please. Moonlit Dips at St. Trop is your new weekend evening escape. For Dh300 (with Dh200 back in food and drink credit), you can float under the stars, sip something cool, and soak in Burj Khalifa views from the 18th floor of the Waldorf Astoria DIFC. Launching May 2, every Fri–Sun from sunset till 10pm. For bookings, call: 04 515 9999
Get started on your fitness resolutions
Escape the heat and feel the burn (in a good way) with Barre Effect's BE Summer Ready package: 20 classes in 30 days for Dh1,400. Expect 50-minute workouts blending ballet, Pilates, and yoga, paired with upbeat playlists and sculpting props (think wearable weights, resistance bands and YBells). Ideal for all fitness levels, classes are low-impact, high-results. Bonus: luxe amenities like Dyson tools and RAW coffee make post-sweat refresh a breeze. It's fitness that looks—and feels—fabulous.
Dh130 (one class); Dh1,400 (20 classes) –available until July 31. To book, go to www.barreeffectdxb.com.
Savour spring at Armani/Ristorante
Welcome the season in style at Armani/Ristorante, the Michelin-starred gem inside Dubai's Burj Khalifa. This spring, executive chef Giovanni Papi unveils a vibrant new à la carte menu, spotlighting fresh flavours and elegant Italian flair. Think Wagyu-filled ravioli, sea urchin linguine, citrus-infused desserts, and luxurious mains like wild sea bass and foie gras-topped tenderloin. It's a symphony of spring on every plate — served in one of the city's most iconic settings.
Celebrate with PizzaExpress
PizzaExpress is celebrating 60 years of pizza perfection with a feast of flavour-packed offers across the UAE. Dine in with the '60 for 60' deal—unlimited pizza and Dough Balls for 60 minutes at just Dh60—or savour the new Icons Set Menu, featuring reimagined fan-favourites like the burrata-topped Queen Margherita, La Reine, Beef Lasagne, and indulgent desserts like Golden Caramel Dough Balls.
Prefer to party at home? Enjoy delivery-exclusive combos like the Birthday Meal for One or Pizza Pair, each just Dh60. With website-only discounts and surprise treats on qualifying orders, it's a celebration that delivers—literally.
Sonny Fodera live
On 3 May 2025, internationally acclaimed DJ and producer Sonny Fodera will headline Bohemia Presents at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, bringing his signature deep house and tech beats to Dubai's premier beach party venue. Known for chart-topping tracks like "Somedays," "Asking," and "You and I," Sonny will be joined by SARAHREY and Fabrice for an electrifying night of music set against the backdrop of the Dubai Marina skyline. The event kicks off at 5pm at Bohemia Beach Club, with tickets priced at Dh250 for gents (includes 3 drinks), Dh150 for ladies (includes 2 drinks), and VIP packages starting at Dh3000. Expect high-energy sets, stunning seaside views, and a top-tier party atmosphere.