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WEEKEND HOTLIST: 21 Ways To Celebrate The Union Day Long Weekend 2023
The last long weekend of 2023 is here…so make it a good one!
From special Union Day brunches to UAE-inspired scents and magical festive activations…there’s so much to do this long weekend
Sitting at home can be nice…but for 3 days?!
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Samsung’s Galaxy Ring Is The Latest Fitness Trend You Need to Know About21. Get ready to vibe at Soho Garden Festival’s ‘The Oasis’
Let the beats of X by Adriatique, along with Echonomist, Marino Canal, and Deer Jade, whisk you away. It’s a night of rhythm, magic, and visuals that’ll redefine your party game!
Don’t miss this incredible lineup of melodic techno and deep house vibes
Where? Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
When? Sat, Dec 2
Info and reservations: +971 54 232 8888
Tickets start at AED 350, buy here!
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20. Stage Pool Lounge has something every day of the weekend
Stage Pool Lounge at Occidental Al Jaddaf Hotel in Dubai offers a chilled and fun atmosphere, with amazing views over the Dubai Skyline. This is your go-to spot for a chilled weekend- daily happy hours, good vibes Pink Wednesdays, Fridays’ Arabian Sky Nights, Saturdays’ Caribbean Nights with live Latin music, or Sundays’ family-friendly Circus Brunch!
Where? Occidental Al Jaddaf Hotel
19. Dubai Parksâ„¢ and Resorts illuminates with an eco-friendly laser show at RIVERLANDâ„¢ DubaiÂ
Dubai Parks™ and Resorts is gearing up to commemorate this year’s UAE 52nd Union Day with a spectacular laser show at RIVERLAND™ Dubai from Friday 1st December to Sunday, 3rd December 2023.
With performances at 7:30PM, 8:30PM and 9:30PM, the brand-new laser show will light up the night sky all three days with the UAE flag’s colours, creating a mesmerising display that reflects the unity of the nation. Played alongside the UAE National Anthem, the show will add an extra layer of magic to the festivities, promising a captivating experience for all.
Where? RIVERLANDâ„¢ Dubai
When? Fri Dec 1 to Sun Dec 3
Time? 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm and 9:30 pm
18. The Emirates Dubai 7s guarantees a weekend of fun
Emirates Dubai 7s is a star of the UAE sporting calendar, traditionally an event that’s purely about 7s… the event has evolved to include a wide lineup of sports, food, music, and play areas for the kids. And this year it looks even better than ever before thanks to a JAM-PACKED schedule featuring padel, netball, and cricket… as well as world-class 7s rugyby!
So what are you waiting for… Grab your tickets, your wildest outfit, your best war paint, and join us for a weekend of non-stop action, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Friday 1st – Sunday 3rd December 2023
General Admission (Gate 10): 7am Fri, Sat, Sun
VIP (Gate 6): 9am Sat & Sun
Players/Teams (Gate 7):Â 6.30am
Last Entry Times:
General Admission (Gate 10): Closed for public entry from 8pm Fri, Sat, Sun
VIP (Gate 6): Closed for public entry from 8pm Sat & Sun. VIP area closes 10pm Sat & Sun
Players/Teams (Gate 7): Closed for player entry from 8pm Fri, Sat, Sun
Food and Beverage Outlets Opening Times:
Food Outlets: Open from 7am Fri, Sat, Sun (all outlets open by 10am)
Bars: Open 10am Fri, Sat, Sun. Close 10.30pm Fri, 11.15pm Sat & Sun,
Kids Zone
Open: From 10am to 6pm Fri, Sat, Sun
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17. Al Shindagha Days: Celebrating the UAE’s culture of the sea
Celebrate the UAE’s culture of the sea! Heritage at the heart of historic Dubai is the highlight of Al Shindagha Days. Traditional demonstrations, live performances, home-grown F&B concepts and interactive workshops. This is a must-attend for the Union Day weekend- come see where our little country started out 52 years ago!
Where? Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood
When? Until Dec 3
Price? Entry is FREE and you also get FREE Emirati food at the community area!
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16. It’s festive delights at The Ripe Market
Winter is here and the Christmas festivity season is approaching The Ripe Market- Dubai’s most loved community event.
Explore a wonderland of Christmas delights, from enchanting decorations to foodie concepts, hot chocolate, wreath-making workshops, Deliveroo’s Teal Santa, the Ford Fun Zone, and an array of enticing shopping stalls. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas than by visiting the Ripe Festive Market. It’s the ultimate destination to discover unique, one-of-a-kind gifts while championing the local community.
Where? Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Sufouh – Al Sufouh 1
When? Every weekend in December
Time? Saturdays from 9 am to 9 pm, and Sundays from 9 am to 7 pm.
15. City Walk is going all out for Union Day 2023
Celebrate UAE’s 52nd Union Day at City Walk with exciting musical performances and cultural dances. Also enjoy exclusive dining, shopping and entertainment offers.
Kicking off the two-day live entertainment, Adel Ebrahim, the soulful Arabic Folk musician and his 11-piece band will grace the stage on December 2 at 8:30pm.
The melodies will continue December 3 with Hamdan Al Abri, singer/songwriter and front man of the Dubai-based soul band ABRI, along with his 4-piece band at 6:30pm.
Lebanese songwriter and semi-finalist of The Voice Arabia Season 5, Yamane El-Hage and her 4-piece ensemble will captivate the audience from 8pm onward.
There will also be Harbiya Dancers 6pm onwards!
14. Askim pays an exciting tribute to Syrian and Turkish flavours
Get ready for yet another gastronomic adventure as Askim, the newest jewel in Downtown Dubai, opens its doors to enthusiasts of Levantine cuisine. Translated to ‘love’ in Turkish, Askim promises to be the ideal destination for a romantic and flavorful escapade this season! The culinary journey at Askim is a celebration of the Levantine region, with a menu that pays homage to the rich flavours of both Syrian and Turkish cuisines.
Whether it’s the soul-warming flavours of Syrian dishes or the intricate spices of Turkish cuisine, each dish is a testament to the diverse and exquisite culinary heritage of the Levant.
Where? Downtown Dubai
Contact number:Â 04 266 7099 and 050 982 8302
13. Soirée Wine Bar elevates Thursdays with Live jazz nights
With soulful jazz tunes from the talented artist Sean Lipsey paired with elevated comfort food and wine/cocktails, Soirée Wine Bar is ready to serenade guests with their weekly jazz night every Thursday.
This nifty speakeasy-styled wine bar is a cozy haven to mingle and unwind with friends while soaking in the dulcet notes of smooth jazz.
Where? Soiree Wine Bar
When? Every Thursday
Time? 8 pm to 11 pm
12. The Dubai Motorcycle Film Festival is here
The love of motorcycles and the art of filmmaking come together in one fabulous festival featuring a thrilling line-up of motorcycle-themed films along with a sunset BBQ preceding the main screening.
The Dubai Motorcycle Film Festival is an annual celebration of motorcycle culture and creativity, showcasing a diverse range of short films and documentaries that revolve around the world of motorcycling. This unique event brings together filmmakers, motorcycle enthusiasts, and the wider community to experience the power of storytelling through the lens of this exhilarating and adventurous lifestyle.
Where? Warehouse Four
When? Saturday, Dec 2
11. Oli Oli has a Magical Winterland for your lil ones
It’s officially winter season at OliOli®, with the opening of their much-loved temporary exhibition: Magical Winterland! This unique installation is designed to bring the magic of miniature models to families and children across Dubai!
The immersive attraction features more than 700 miniature pieces including animated buildings, scenic landscapes, wizardly worlds, model trains and a fun-filled carnival, all nestled against the backdrop of enchanting snow-capped mountains. Kids can also take part in a magical scavenger hunt, where they can spot wintery moments in the gallery, and solve the hunt for a special treat from the OliOli® cafe!
9. A fancy little UAE National Day afternoon tea
Step into a world of elegance and patriotism with Ladurée’s luxurious National Day Afternoon Tea. This lavish spread includes four flavour-packed petit fours, two rich honey goat cheese tartlets, two decadent salmon bagels, and two mouth-watering grilled vegetable tartlets.
Elevate your dining experience by indulging in two iconic Ladurée macarons or try out two irresistible Eugénie delights paired with a selection of hot beverages. Enjoy your macarons with a complimentary print of the national colours!
Where? Ladurée has multiple outlets: Multiple locations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi
When? Until December 3rd
Price? AED 204
8. Eva’s Fusion Fiesta: UAE National Day Extravaganza!
Eva’s Fusion, the chic Indian restaurant in Barsha Heights, is your go-to spot this National Day, serving up 52 flavors of shisha at 52 AED each and a delectable 3-course modern Indian meal with a beverage for just 52 AED – the perfect fusion of flavor and celebration!
Where? Millennium Place Barsha Heights Hotel, First Floor
When? 1st to 3rd December
Time? All Day
Price? Shisha at 52 AED, 3-course meal at 52 AED
Book here.
7. UAE-themed AI-Crafted Perfumes at Flowwow!
Get ready to sniff your way through the Emirates with Flowwow’s ‘UAE Scents.’ It’s not your usual perfume collection; it’s an olfactory journey co-created with AI! Abu Dhabi’s opulence, Dubai’s luxury, Sharjah’s cultural heritage – they’ve bottled it all. Want to snag these exclusive scents? Head to their Instagram, because they’re giving it away! Your chance to smell as fancy as the UAE.
Where? Online Giveaway on Instagram
When? Starting November 24
Price? Free (Giveaway)
Book here Flowwow Instagram
6. Bombay Borough’s feast
Feast Embark on a culinary journey at Bombay Borough in DIFC! From December 1st to 3rd, relish five signature dishes at just AED 52 each. Tantalize your taste buds with flavors from Tandoor Roasted Corn to Froyo Papdi Chaat – a feast honoring the UAE’s diverse palate.
Where? Bombay Borough, DIFC
When? December 1st to 3rd
Price? AED 52 per selected dishes only
Book here Flowwow Instagram. Â Walk-ins welcome
5. Nature Park Celebration at The Green Planet
Join The Green Planet’s Nature Park celebration for the UAE’s 52nd Union Day! From December 1st to 3rd, immerse in eco-friendly activities, seed planting, henna tattoos, and themed arts. A family-friendly experience in Dubai’s tropical rainforest – creating memories for all.
Where? The Green Planet, City Walk
When? December 1st to 3rd
Time? 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price? AED 69 per person
Book here? The Green Planet Website
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4. Beirut Streets for authentic Arabic street food
Satisfy your street food cravings at Beirut Streets! From 8 am to 2 am, indulge in Lebanese delights like Chicken and Beef Shawarmas, the famous submarine sandwich, and more. A chilled spot in Al Barsha – your go-to for authentic Lebanese flavours.
P.S. you MUST try their labneh… it’s the freshest in town and definitely makes you miss home!
Where? B1, Al Barsha, opposite MOE
When? Open daily, 8 am to 2 am
Book here? Walk-ins welcome
3. Free preview at Gymboree’s Wonderland
Gymboree Play & Music’s new location in Springs Souk invites families for a free preview on December 1st and 2nd. Explore early learning and play in a fun setting, marking the perfect start to your National Day weekend.
Where? Springs Souk Dubai
When? December 1st and 2nd
Price? Free of Cost
Book? Contact +971 050 205 4942 or info@gymboreeclasses.ae
2. Ultimate weekend offer at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah
Celebrate UAE’s 52nd National Day at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort! Enjoy special room rates starting at AED 1050, offering a luxurious stay with access to the private beach, spa services, and family-friendly activities.
Where? Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort
When? November 30 to December 3
Price:? Starting at AED 1050
Contact +971 7 228 8844 or reservations_rakresort@hilton.com
1. A Union day food tour with Frying Pan adventures and Rove Hotels
Embark on a culinary and cultural journey with Rove Hotels and Frying Pan Adventures! Explore Old Dubai’s historic Creekside, savouring authentic delicacies and uncovering hidden stories. Book your slot for AED 175 on November 30th or December 1st.
Where? Historic Creekside, Old Dubai
When? November 30 and December 1
Price? AED 175 per person
The tour is now SOLD OUT! but Join the waitlist on the Frying Pan Adventures Website- they conduct these tours often!
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