The city is buzzing with high energy for New Year’s Eve and January will be no less electrifying! So, I say what better way to ring in a new year than to have every day and every weekend planned with something incredible to do? From international artists to groundbreaking music festivals, cultural events and fireworks shows that will light up the skies with vibrant colours – Dubai is ready to set the stage for an epic 2025, and this is just a preview of what’s to come! Come with me, and let’s get your calendar planned out with all the best things to do in Dubai this January!
Concerts & Live Shows
1. Soho Garden Sunset Festival – Wednesday, January 1st
Ring in 2025 with breathtaking sunset views, the vibrant Dubai skyline, and electrifying beats at the Soho Garden Sunset Festival. Featuring WhoMadeWho (Hybrid DJ Set) and a special guest, this rooftop extravaganza is the perfect way to start your year on a high note.
Where: Meydan Grandstand Rooftop
Get your tickets here!
2. MASAKA Africana at Bohemia Beach Club – Wednesday, January 1st
Get ready for an unforgettable Afro house experience as MASAKA Africana takes over Bohemia Beach Club. Headlined by Mickey Dastinz, Anrey, and Sinheda, the event promises pulsating rhythms and captivating performances to energise your New Year celebrations.
Where: Bohemia Beach Club
Get your tickets here!
3. Saint Levant & Naïka – Friday, January 3rd
Catch Palestinian singer-songwriter Saint Levant and French-Haitian artist Naïka performing live for FREE as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival’s 30th anniversary. Enjoy their unique multilingual styles blending Arabic, French, and English in a night of soulful music.
Where: e& MOTB, Dubai Design District (d3)
4. DSF Nights – Until Sunday, January 12th
Celebrate the Dubai Shopping Festival with 38 nights of non-stop entertainment! Enjoy thrilling concerts featuring top Arab artists and live X Factor shows, all at one buzzing location.
Where: Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall
5. The Fridge Open Mic – Thursday, January 16th
Showcase your talent or cheer for emerging stars at The Fridge Open Mic night. Performers get 10-minute slots, and registration is free. This is the perfect chance to discover fresh talent in Dubai’s creative heart.
Where: Alserkal Avenue
Register here!
6. Lucky Ali – Saturday, January 18th
The iconic Indian singer Lucky Ali returns to Dubai for a nostalgic night of indie and Bollywood hits, including his timeless track “O Sanam.”
Where: Zero Gravity, Dubai Marina
Get your tickets here!
7. Metro Boomin – Friday, January 24th
Experience Grammy-nominated DJ and producer Metro Boomin live! Known for his chart-topping beats, this is your chance to enjoy a night of ground-shaking music.
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
Get your tickets here!
8. Steve Aoki – Saturday, January 25th
Dance the night away with the legendary Steve Aoki at Barasti Beach. Famous for his high-energy EDM and unforgettable performances, this is a must-attend event for music lovers.
Where: Barasti Beach
Get your tickets here!
9. Afrodise At Ginger Moon – Saturday, January 25th
Step into a Tulum-inspired tropical paradise at Ginger Moon. Enjoy Afro house beats and mesmerising performances from a lineup including Aaron Sevilla and Pauza. Tickets include three drinks for the perfect night out.
Where: W Dubai – Mina Seyahi
Get your tickets here!
10. Green Day – Monday, January 27th
Catch the legendary rock band Green Day in their first-ever Middle East performance at a custom-built 30,000-capacity venue. Expect an epic night filled with their greatest hits!
Where: Expo City Dubai
Get your tickets here!
11. CAS – Friday, January 31st
End January on a dreamy note with ambient pop group CAS. Let the soothing vocals of Greg Gonzalez transport you during this romantic and nostalgic evening.
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
Get your tickets here!
Events
12. Hatta Cultural Nights – Wednesday, January 1st
Immerse yourself in Dubai’s rich heritage as Hatta Cultural Nights return for their grand finale. From traditional performances like ‘Alrababa,’ ‘Al Yowla,’ and ‘Al Harbia’ to captivating ‘Nabati’ poetry evenings by renowned Emirati poets, the event offers non-stop entertainment. Explore handcrafted goods from local businesses and artists while enjoying folkloric showcases and musical sessions. Best of all, entry is completely free!
Where: Hatta Heritage Village
13. Al Marmoom: Film In The Desert Festival – Saturday, January 4th To Sunday, January 12th
This one’s for all the cinephiles! Dive into a world of film with screenings, workshops, panel discussions, and educational sessions. Showcasing talents from the UAE and the MENA region, the festival offers plenty of family-friendly activities alongside its competition screenings.
Where: Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve
Get your tickets here!
14. Final DSF Fireworks & Drone Show – Sunday, January 12th
Close out the 30th anniversary of Dubai Shopping Festival in style with a dazzling drone and fireworks display at 9 pm. Watch the skies light up for an unforgettable visual treat marking the festival’s grand finale.
Where: Dubai Festival City Mall & Hatta
15. ARTE MUSEUM Dubai – Until Sunday, January 12th
Step into a mesmerising world at ARTE MUSEUM, a 2,800sqm gallery featuring 14 breathtaking zones themed around ‘Eternal Nature.’ Enhance your visit with an exclusive Dubai Shopping Festival offer: buy two tickets and get one free. Tickets start at AED 129.
Where: Dubai Mall
Get your tickets here!
16. Dubai Safari Park: Wild In The Night – Until Sunday, January 12th
Embark on an exclusive nocturnal adventure with guided night safaris through a magical after-dark jungle. Witness over 90 animal species and their fascinating nighttime routines in the region’s only night safari experience.
Where: Dubai Safari Park
Get your tickets here!
17. FamilyBeatz Family Rave – Sunday, January 12th
Groove to retro beats at this fun-filled rave for families. With glitter stations, face painting, crafts, and interactive games, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to dress up for the fancy-dress competition. Kids below 9 enter for free!
Where: Al Habtoor Polo Resort
Get your tickets here!
18. Kite Masti At Al Mamzar Park – Sunday, January 12th
Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Kite Masti 2025, a family-friendly event featuring traditional kite flying, delicious food stalls, and lively music. It’s a perfect day out in the picturesque surroundings of Al Mamzar Park.
Where: Al Mamzar Park
Get your tickets here!
19. Comedy Mixtape Fest – Sunday, January 19th
South Asia’s funniest comedians are here to tickle your funny bone! Featuring stars like Anubhav Singh Bassi, Kenny Sebastian, Harsh Gujral, and Samay Raina, this laugh-fest promises a night of top-tier comedy. Doors open at 5:30pm.
Where: Dubai World Trade Centre
Get your tickets here!
20. Dubai Racing Carnival: Fashion Friday – Friday, January 24th
Dress to impress for Fashion Friday at Meydan Racecourse. Cheer on the world’s best horses during eight thrilling races and indulge in five-star dining in a glamorous setting. Gates open at 4pm.
Where: Meydan Racecourse
Get your tickets here!
21. Quoz Arts Fest 2025 – Saturday, January 25th To Sunday, January 26th
Get ready for a creative explosion at Quoz Arts Fest! Enjoy live performances, exhibitions, workshops, food trucks, and pop-up shops. From rising musicians to immersive installations, this fest celebrates Dubai’s vibrant artistic community. Tickets start at AED 63.
Where: Alserkal Avenue
Get your tickets here!
22. Emirates Airline Festival Of Literature – Wednesday, January 29th To Friday, January 31st
Engage with your favourite authors, attend lively debates, and participate in workshops at the region’s largest literary celebration. With something for all ages, this festival is a haven for book lovers.
Where: InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Get your tickets here!
23. Sikka Art & Design Festival – Friday, January 31st
Celebrate the art of the GCC at Sikka Art & Design Festival. Featuring exhibitions, installations, poetry nights, musical performances, and films, this event transforms historic alleys into a hub of creativity.
Where: Al Shindagha Historic District
Get your tickets here!
24. The Winter Nest – Throughout January
Enjoy a cosy Alpine-inspired retreat with private chalets, twinkling Christmas lights, and a festive atmosphere in the heart of the desert. Available for intimate gatherings or larger celebrations.
Where: The Nest by Sonara
Get your tickets here!
Stay tuned to Gulf Buzz for more epic things to do this January 2025 in Dubai!
