We’re halfway through the year, and it’s already been a whirlwind of splashy hotel openings, thrilling new restaurants, and mega festivals. But hold on tight—the best is yet to come! From new beaches to new dining spots to your favourites returning to perform in the UAE— the second half of the year is packed with exciting attractions, brand-new dining destinations, and unforgettable events that you won’t want to miss.
- Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab: A new oceanic-themed hotel opening alongside Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel, featuring a 3,500 square metre spa, several pools including a VIP adult pool, and 10 restaurants, with the first confirmed as Meat the Fish.
- J1 Beach: Debuting in September, this beachfront destination will replace La Mer south, hosting three beach clubs and nine restaurants including Sirene Beach by Gaia, Bâoli, and Gigi Rigolatto. New restaurants include African Queen, Gitano, and Sakhalin.
- Surf Abu Dhabi: Opening in June 2024 on Hudayriyat Island, it will be the world’s most advanced artificial wave facility. The island will also feature a regional first velodrome and the largest urban park in Abu Dhabi.
- China Tang: Opening soon at The Lana, Dorchester Collection Dubai in Business Bay, this upscale Cantonese restaurant inspired by 1930s Shanghai will serve classic dishes including signature Peking Duck.
- Sanskara: A wellness space and eatery opening in Jumeirah later this year, offering locally-sourced dining options, wellness activities like ice baths and infrared saunas, and a variety of relaxation spaces.
- Sushisamba Abu Dhabi: Opening at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, this restaurant will feature a vibrant indoor area, terrace dining, a private dining room, and sea views.
- Chicago the Musical: Coming to Etihad Arena from September 12 to 22, bringing the longest-running American musical in Broadway history to the capital.
- Swingers: Opening on Bluewaters Island in 2024, this adults-only crazy golf venue from London will feature four nine-hole courses, street food, cocktails, and live DJs.
- Gerbou: A sustainable Emirati restaurant opening in Nad Al Sheba this year, offering indoor and outdoor dining in a 1987-renovated building with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
- UFC 308: Scheduled for October 26 at Etihad Arena, this event will be part of Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, featuring city-wide events, fan activations, and concerts.
- Floating Mosque: Opening at Dubai Canal in 2024, this mosque will feature three floors including a submerged prayer hall, accommodating 50 to 75 worshippers, and will welcome people of all faiths.
- Sexy Fish: This opulent Japanese restaurant from London is opening in Dubai in 2024, known for its glamorous interiors and high-octane environment.
- O Beach Dubai: Opening this winter at the Habtoor Grand hotel on JBR, featuring a large pool, beach bar, restaurant, DJ booth, cabanas, and VIP sections.
- Romesh Ranganathan: Performing at Coca-Cola Arena in October, this British comedian’s show is for adults aged 16 and over, for comedy lovers.
- KARVE: London’s renowned pilates studio opening in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, offering low-impact, high-intensity pilates classes with custom-designed reformer machines.
- Wireless Music Festival: Now expected in November 2024 in Abu Dhabi, following its anticipated March debut.
- Tania’s Teahouse: Relocating to a new venue in the second half of 2024, offering an updated menu, event spaces, and an alcohol license.
- Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Taking place from December 5 to 8, featuring on- and off-circuit events and a concert by Muse, Eminem and Maroon 5. General Admission tickets from 750 Dhs.
- Timbuktu Market: Inspired by London’s Borough Market and New York’s Chelsea Market, opening in Barsha Heights, featuring new eateries, local products, and a cycling studio.
- Matilda the Musical: Returning to the UAE, performing in Abu Dhabi from June 20 to 23.
- Mr Chow: Opening in DIFC, this restaurant will feature a handmade noodle show and flavourful Beijing duck.
- Sustainable Waterfall in Hatta: Opening soon, this project features recycled water and a natural waterfall created using the upper dam slope, along with recreational spaces and cafes.
- Giselle Ballet: For the ballet and tragic romance lovers, the Giselle performance is coming to Dubai Opera from September 18 to 21. Performed by the esteemed dancers of the Polish National Ballet and Orchestra, conducted by Patrick Fournillier with the choreography by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot.
- Disney on Ice: Coming to Dubai from October 16 to 20, featuring characters like Mirabel, Moana, Anna, Elsa, and more. Tickets start at 75 Dhs.
- Sole DXB to return to Dubai with more music than ever. Running from Friday December 13 until Sunday December 15, you’ll be able to experience three nights of music and DJ sets. Taking over the D3 Design District, workshops, sports tournaments and youth clinics will also be available from some of the world’s top brands.
