This year, August in the UAE is bringing plenty to keep residents busy. There’s a long weekend that we know you must be longing to learn about, the final days of Dubai Summer Surprises, new places opening their doors and more! Basically, there’s a lot happening this month and whether you’re hunting for summer deals or simply trying to stay ahead of the latest updates, here are the key changes and events to know.
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1. Expect A Public Holiday This Month!
One of the biggest dates on the UAE calendar this month is the expected public holiday marking Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH). The occasion is expected to fall on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, which corresponds with the 12th day of Rabi Al Awwal in the Islamic calendar. It’s important to know that the final date will be officially confirmed based on moon sighting. Under the UAE’s public holiday rules, the day off may be moved to create a longer weekend. If the usual practice is followed, residents could enjoy a day off on Monday, August 24, creating a three-day weekend.
2. AED 10 Dishes Return Across Dubai
Food lovers looking for budget-friendly bites are in luck, as Dubai’s popular AED 10 dishes offer is returning this August. As part of Dubai Summer Surprises 2026, the limited-time dining promotion will bring affordable meals from restaurants across the city. This gives residents the chance to enjoy everything from quick bites to restaurant favourites without breaking the bank! The offer will run from Monday, August 3, until Sunday, August 30.
3. UAE Weather Could Bring Rain & Dust
While August remains one of the hottest months of the year, this time, you might be able to experience some unusual summer weather. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast periods of rain, with convective clouds expected particularly over eastern and western areas of the UAE. Afternoon showers may continue during this period alongside strong summer heat. Residents should prepare for dusty conditions, as winds can stir up sand, thereby reducing visibility in some areas.
4. Dubai Summer Surprises Enters Its Final Stretch
The city’s biggest summer celebration is almost over, but don’t be saddened yet, as there are still plenty of reasons to head out. Dubai Summer Surprises 2026 will wrap up on Sunday, August 30, bringing an end to weeks of shopping offers, entertainment, family activities, and more! But before the final day arrives, residents can still catch major discounts, including the Great Dubai Summer Sale, which features deals of up to 80% across more than 1,000 brands! And don’t forget Summer Restaurant Week! Foodies have a final chance to enjoy specially curated menus at participating restaurants.
5. Airline Disruptions Continue Into August
Travellers flying in and out of the UAE should continue to check flight updates, as some international airlines have extended their temporary suspensions.
- Air France is expected to resume flights to Dubai from August 11 onwards.
- Air Astana has suspended services between Almaty, Astana and Dubai until August 31.
- Aegean Airlines has also paused flights to Dubai until August 31.
- Several other international carriers, including KLM, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Lufthansa, have extended changes to some routes into September and October.
- However, UAE-based carriers Emirates and Etihad continue to operate most of their major routes as usual.
6. The Grand Mall Opens In Nad Al Sheba
Dubai is welcoming a new community destination this month as The Grand opens its doors in Nad Al Sheba Gardens. The two-storey mall is set to launch on Wednesday, August 19. Residents will enjoy a mix of supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, wellness services, healthcare facilities, and everyday essentials. Opening-day highlights include Waitrose, MMI, Maple Bear Nursery, Al Jaber Optical and Fixperts. Come September, more popular names are expected to join the line-up, including Tashas, Somewhere Home Bakery, Blu Pizzeria, Bake My Day, Staywell Pharmacy, Tips and Toes and more!
7. Schools Return For The New Academic Year
The summer break is officially coming to an end, with schools across the UAE preparing to reopen. According to the Ministry of Education’s 2026 – 2029 academic calendar, public and private schools will welcome students back on Monday, August 31. The return of students also means residents should expect busier roads and increased traffic around school zones!
8. Last Chance To Visit Dubai Sports World
Fitness fans have only a limited time left to enjoy Dubai Sports World before the annual indoor sports event closes. Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre, the air-conditioned sporting hub will run until Tuesday, August 25. This gives residents a final chance to stay active away from the summer heat. Visitors who visit can also try a wide range of activities, including badminton, football, basketball, cricket, pickleball, padel, tennis and table tennis. The venue also features a gym, fitness studios and a jogging track for those looking to keep moving indoors.
August may be one of the hottest months of the year, but there’s no shortage of things happening across the UAE. From long weekends and last-minute summer deals to new destinations and back-to-school preparations, residents have plenty to look forward to. Stay ahead of every update, event and change across the UAE with Gulf Buzz, your go-to guide for what’s happening next. Keep checking back for the latest news, tips and things to know!
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