If you thought 10 seasons of F.R.I.E.N.D.S was a lot, try Global Village’s 27 seasons on for size. Alas, that time of year always comes around when the gates to Global Village close for the summer, leaving our hearts empty but our wallets a little fuller. There’s nothing like walking into your home country’s pavilion and getting to have your favourite street foods or going to different countries to get a great bargain on some Moroccan spices or Turkish linen. Not to mention the action-packed carnival that’s always been a magical time for the whole family. But now that we have some time on our hands while we eagerly wait for season 28 let’s see what else Dubai has to offer us. Here are some fun-tastic ways you can spend your weekend around town.
Also read: 10 Things To Do In June In Dubai & Abu Dhabi 2023
1. Dubai Souks
Okay, let’s start this off nice and easy. If you’re someone who loved to go to Global Village to score a great deal, then you’ll have a grand time shaking down some vendors in the Dubai souk markets. The best part is Dubai has such an incredible variety of souks that you could go to a new one every weekend for two months and still have places left over. How crazy is that! We love the idea of endless shopping, going from souk to souk, knowing you’ll leave with at least 10 bags in your hands and a smile on your face.
The top recommended souks would have to be – Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Bur Dubai Souk, Dubai Gold Souk, Dubai Spice Souk, Deira Perfume Souk, and many more. Night market Souks are also an amazing time; check out the DSF Market in downtown Dubai. Happy shopping, everyone!
Also read: Dubai’s Best Aquatic Adventures: Top Things To Do This Summer
2. The Green Planet
The Green Planet is a massive bio-dome currently home to over 3000 different exotic plant and animal species, materialised in an artificial recreation of the tropical rainforest. This enchanting indoor rainforest is the first of its kind in Dubai, introduced in 2016 and is still quite the hidden gem. This unique experience allows visitors to observe and interact with a large variety of animals, including the Burmese Python, Cuban Amazon Parrot, Cotton-top Tamarin, and for the first time in the region, the Echidna.
Set in City Walk Dubai, this bio-dome has various encounters for people to explore, providing a great educational opportunity for all flora and fauna lovers. A new initiative has also recently been launched by The Green Plant that any nature-loving visitor can adopt an animal from a small selection for as long as a year. The chosen animal would still stay under the expert care of the trained individuals at The Green Planet. However, the adoption would significantly contribute to their additional research and educational initiatives.
With Tickets starting at AED 160, you can check out these spectacular animals every day of the week from 10AM to 6PM.
Get your tickets here
3. Escape Rooms
If you think you’re the smartest in your friend group, put it to the test by planning a fun Friday night out at one of Dubai’s numerous escape rooms. Embark on an epic journey to solve a murder mystery, uncover ancient treasures, or even survive a zombie apocalypse. These interactive games are designed to test your problem-solving skills, creativity, and teamwork as you work together to solve puzzles and clues in order to escape. But go at your own risk because, just like a good game of Uno, an escape room might just make or break some friendships. LOL, just kidding. Escape rooms are fantastic team-building exercises for colleagues or corporate groups and even family bonding. So, if you’re up for the challenge and an adventure like no other, head to an escape room and test out your skills.
Gulf Buzz Recommended Escape Rooms to try out: Phobia Dubai, Escape House, Escape the Room Dubai, NoWayOut Escape Rooms, Insidious Escape Room, and so many more. The list could go on for miles. At this rate, you won’t have a boring weekend all summer long.
4. Café Céramique
If you’ve been dying to get out of the stresses of your daily 9-5, I highly recommend stretching your creative legs at Café Céramique. Relax and unwind with pots, plates and sculptures of all kinds and bring back your youthful spirit as you paint your heart away and make the perfect showpiece for your house or gift for your bestie. With a large variety of ceramics to choose from, you can come back time and time again and create a new piece each time.
Eat and create art at the same time, as their menu offers quick bites to full main courses and desserts. Café Céramique is also the perfect place to host a birthday party for any age, as they provide incredible birthday packages. A date night with your partner or a day out with your kids, Café Céramique will help you create your very own masterpiece and forever memories. Located in the Golden Mile Galleria Mall in Palm Jumeriah, open from 10AM to 10PM all week long.
See their packages here
Also read: 30 Upcoming Shows, Events, Sport Events, Concerts And Festivals In Abu Dhabi
5. Smash Room
These days who isn’t stressed out and tired by the end of the week, and depending on how your work goes, maybe even a little bit angry. If you’re looking for a unique and incredibly satisfying way to knock off some post-workweek stress, then Smash Room is your one-stop shop. Smash Room lets you step into a room filled with items ranging from old appliances to glassware and gives you the freedom to smash and destroy them with a variety of weapons, including bats and hammers. It’s a perfect way to vent your frustration and release built-up tension in a safe and controlled environment.
تبون تطلعون الضغط النفسي الي فيكم و تكسرون أشياء ؟؟؟
Check out the smash room in Dubai 🔨🔧⛏⚔️ pic.twitter.com/BahXJUGEZK
— 💭شيخة -جان (@SamuraigirlX_) October 18, 2019
This one-of-a-kind experience is ideal for groups or individuals looking to do something fun and out of the ordinary. It’s also an excellent way to celebrate a special occasion or to bond with friends and family. Plus, with packages that include various items to smash, you can tailor your experience to suit your needs and preferences. Open Monday to Thursday from 12:30 PM to 10 PM and Friday to Sunday from 12:30PM to 11PM, in Umm Suqeim St – Al Quoz, Dubai.
So, let’s break you free from the stresses of everyday life. Head down to Smash Room Dubai and get ready to smash, break, and destroy to your heart’s content!
Book your package here
6. Museum of Illusions
If you’re a fan of mind-bending illusions and interactive exhibits, then the Museum of Illusions Dubai is a must-visit weekend endeavour. This fascinating museum offers a unique experience that will challenge your senses and perceptions of reality. You’ll encounter mind-bending installations, optical illusions, and interactive exhibits that will leave you in awe. The museum is a perfect destination for adults and children and an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with family or friends. With over 80 exhibits spread across multiple zones, this is yet another full-day affair set to occupy your time in the best way possible.
I felt like a toddler at the museum of illusion https://t.co/Oc59xah6wI pic.twitter.com/eclNM1bTWc
— MIDE 🇬🇧🇳🇬 (@_Olumyde) May 10, 2023
Ticket prices are set to be inclusive for all people; if you go onto their website, you will be able to choose between several different ticket options depending on what suits you the best, such as ‘student’, ‘Person of determination’, or ‘senior citizen’ and many others options are there to create a more affordable experience for everyone. Open Monday through Sunday from 10 AM to 10 PM, tickets can be booked online depending on availability for your chosen day.
Check availability here
Also read: Dubai Opens UAE’s Largest Heritage Museum – The Al Shindagha Museum At Dubai Creek
7. Top Golf
This is no ordinary game of golf; this takes golf to a whole new height. This three-story structure allows you to practically play golf in the sky. With a slightly different point system, Top Golf is an immersive and competitive game meant to be enjoyed by a large group of people. Eat, play and drink all in the same place. For a night out with friends, team building between colleagues or Family Fridays, Top Golf is the ultimate weekend destination for fun.
Located in Emirates Hills 2 and is open Monday to Friday from 10AM to 2 AM and on weekends from 9AM to 2AM. Rent your bay per hour or see their selection of packages on their website.
Reserve your bay here
8. Alserkal Avenue
If you’re an art lover or someone who enjoys exploring unique cultural spaces, then Alserkal Avenue in Dubai is the perfect destination for you. This vibrant cultural district is home to a plethora of contemporary art galleries, cafes, boutiques, and creative spaces. Whether you’re interested in photography, painting, sculpture, or digital art, you will surely find something that will capture your imagination and inspire you.
You can interact with local and international artists and participate in the latest cultural events and art exhibitions at Alserkal Avenue. A fascinating and visually stunning area to explore, the district’s distinctive industrial setting and architecture add an extra layer of character to the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking for a fun and creative weekend afternoon activity, Alserkal Avenue in Dubai offers a distinctive and inspirational experience that’s certain to make an impression. Open 7 days a week from 10AM to 7PM in Al-Quoz Industrial Area 1, Dubai. And you’ll be delighted to know that it is absolutely free entry into the venue.
9. Expo City
We all remember how fun Expo 2020 was, right? I miss it a lot, and I was so happy when they announced that they were still keeping a version of it open to the public. For just 20 AED, you can enter the park anytime between 2PM and 10PM from Monday to Sunday. A place for the whole family to enjoy, Expo City has a lot to offer. Their main attraction includes Alif – the mobility pavilion; Terra – the sustainability pavilion; and their beautiful Expo City Mosque. Expo City also frequently hosts workshops and events, so that is something to keep a keen eye open for. Past events include ‘The Wings for Life World Run’ and the ‘Value Creation in Cities and Community’ workshop.
With multiple destination parks inside the city, such as Al Forman Park, Jubilee Park and Rashid’s Adventures Playground, Expo City turns into a full-day affair, keeping your weekends fun and busy. But if you’re not interested in any of the activities they offer, then coming down for the incredible line-up of restaurants is a must-do. From cuisines ranging from Italian to Lebanese, no one is sure to feel left out here.
Get your tickets here
10. Aventura Parks
Rounding off the list, this last weekend destination is for all the adventure-loving thrill seekers out there. Aventura Parks is an outdoor adventure park offering a range of exhilarating activities and challenges, including zip-lining, rope courses, and climbing walls. The park features multiple circuits with varying difficulty levels, so whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, there’s something for everyone. Beyond the activities, Aventura Parks offers a unique and beautiful setting, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning natural landscapes. The park is an ideal destination for families, friends, or solo adventurers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature for the weekend.
At Aventura Parks, you’ll also have access to a range of amenities and services, including restaurants, cafes, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot to spend an entire day exploring and relaxing. With professional instructors and safety measures in place, you can enjoy the activities with peace of mind, knowing that you’re in good hands. So why not challenge yourself and push your limits by booking a day at Aventura Parks? It’s an experience you won’t regret!
Open Monday to Wednesday from 2 PM to 8 PM and Thursday to Sunday from 10 AM to 9 PM, in Mushrif Park, Dubai.
Book your tickets here
