As January unfurls its cool winter breezes across the glamorous city of Dubai, the beginning of a new year whispers promises of fresh starts and thrilling experiences. The pleasantly mild climate offers a perfect backdrop for an array of events that cater to every interest and age. It's a time when the city truly blossoms, showcasing its diverse facets - from art and music festivals to sports events and culinary feasts.
It's a time to come together, whether you're a local or a visitor, to enjoy the outdoors, engage with the community, and immerse yourself in its experiences.
Embrace the start of 2024 with anticipation and excitement. As you look to begin the year with memorable moments, Dubai stands ready to offer them in abundance. Here's a list of unmissable events this January in Dubai, each promising to start your year with the right mix of joy, discovery, and adventure.
New Year's Day Brunch @ Giardino Palazzo Versace
📆 01 January
Celebrate New Year's Day at Giardino in Palazzo Versace Dubai with an elegant buffet of international delicacies and entertainment for all ages, including a live DJ, children's activities, and animal cosplay. The restaurant features luxurious "terrazzo" marble flooring, columns, jungle-themed Versace wallpapers, and exclusive "Rosenthal meets Versace" crockery.
The New Year's Eve brunch is a family-friendly affair with gourmet options for adults and a special 'Kid’s Corner' for younger guests, ensuring a festive and stylish start to the year.
Zhara Fest Dubai 2024 @ Jumeirah Beach Hotel
📆 06 - 07 January
Zhara Fest Dubai 2024 will be a musical gala featuring over ten stars. Artists such as Jony, Mot, Egor Kreed, Stas Mikhailov, Emin, Jah Khalib, Ani Lorak, Klava Coca, Mari Kraimbreri, and the Russian band Discoteka Avariya will perform their hit tracks, ensuring an energetic night for all attendees.
The festival promises an exciting musical show and a red carpet experience in the heart of Dubai, at the open-air venue Janat Al Bahar at Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
Buffet Dinner @ Mundo, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
📆 06 - 07 | January
Mundo Restaurant in Dubai offers a weekend dinner buffet that is a feast for the senses. Enjoy an international buffet featuring a variety of cuisines, including savoury meat dishes, vibrant salads, a live meat carving station, and a sushi station with fresh rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. The pasta station allows for customized dishes with a choice of sauces, toppings, and pasta types.
The dinner includes complimentary water, with soft drinks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Pricing is AED 160 for adults (12 years and above) and AED 80 for children between 4-11 years of age.
Omid Djalili - Namaste Live @ Rashid Hall, DWTC
📆 07 January
Known for his sharp wit and incisive humour, Omid Djalili will present his critically acclaimed performance that humorously addresses the chaos of the modern world.
Expect a night of relentless comedy where no subject is off-limits, leaving the audience with not an ounce of laughter left. The event promises to be a memorable one, showcasing Djalili's remarkable talent as a comedian who is also known for his diverse roles in film, television, and stage, including appearances in "Mamma Mia 2" and Netflix shows.
A hilarious combination of music, jokes and political satire … Djalili made a night full of cheer and cheese with such immense energy, it was hard not to have a smile on your face for the entire night.
by The New Yorker
1 Billion Followers Summit @ Emirate Towers and the Museum of the Future
📆 10 - 11 January
The 1 Billion Followers Summit is the world's largest expo dedicated to content creators. This event is a melting pot for over 3,000 creators, influencers, and industry experts from around the globe, including 200 CEOs and 100+ speakers, aiming to inspire and educate a global audience through purposeful content creation.
Attendees can look forward to a dynamic two-day program filled with over 30 inspirational talks, hands-on workshops, and enlightening panel discussions led by some of the biggest names in content creation. This summit is not just for seasoned influencers but also budding creators, offering opportunities to engage with industry leaders, share visions, and forge potential collaborations.
Sharing social content is a huge responsibility that leaves a lasting impact on the individual and social levels. This is why the New Media Academy is keen on this annual event as a way to champion impactful content and positive narratives, in line with our commitment to unlocking the transformative potential of content creators, amplifying their influence.
says Alia Al Hammadi, CEO of the New Media Academy.
The summit is designed as an enriching experience, ensuring every moment, from the first keynote to the closing ceremony, is memorable. It's an opportunity to network, learn from educational keynotes, and participate in interactive sessions that showcase the journeys and insights of favourite speakers.
Beyond individual growth, the summit addresses the role of new media in supporting economies and contributing to sustainable development agendas. It seeks to shape the future of digital content and new media globally, fostering knowledge sharing, and extending partnerships among influencers, content producers, and social media platforms.
PAW Patrol Fest @ Festival Bay, DFC Mall
📆 12 - 28 January
This event is a dream come true for little fans of the popular Nickelodeon series. Step into the vibrant world of Adventure Bay and meet beloved characters like Ryder, Chase, Skye, Zuma, and Rocky.
It's an immersive experience filled with fun activities, from sing-along performances and photo opportunities to interactive games. Kids can slide down the Lookout Tower, jump on an AR trampoline, navigate a maze, and even enter the Sea Patroller for a digital adventure. The 'PUP Park' play area and themed games ensure endless entertainment. And there's a chance to meet and greet heroes like Chase and Marshall after performances.
Get ready for some PUP-TACULAR adventure!
Michael McIntyre: Macnificent Live @ Coca-Cola Arena
Michael McIntyre is returning to the stage with his brand new show, MACNIFICENT, ready to make light of the recent years with his signature humour. Known for hosting two of BBC's most successful shows, the BAFTA-winning Michael McIntyre’s Big Show and The Wheel, Michael has entertained millions worldwide. His previous tours have sold over four million tickets, setting records globally.
The acclaimed British comedian is recognized for his observational comedy and roles on shows like Britain's Got Talent. Michael's knack for turning everyday scenarios into moments of hilarity promises an unforgettable experience for his audience.
Kpop Overdose @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 14 January
EXO's Chanyeol, Xiumin, and Chen are bringing their electrifying presence and legendary vocals on stage for a K-pop extravaganza. It is set to be an electrifying event filled with dramatic performances, and chart-topping hits like "Love Shot," "Don’t Go," and "Cream Soda."
The trio, known for their dynamic and high-energy performances, will be accompanied by opening acts from renowned DJ Bliss and South Korean sensation DJ Raiden.
Ed Sheeran: + − = ÷ x Tour @ The Sevens Stadium
📆 19 - 20 January
Ed Sheeran is set to perform his biggest hits and songs from his latest albums, Autumn Variations and - (Deluxe), including the hit single Eyes Closed. The concert, featuring a special performance by British pop star Calum Scott, promises to be an electrifying experience with Sheeran’s signature 360-degree central stage, enhancing the intimate and immersive atmosphere.
This event marks Ed Sheeran's return to the UAE for the first time since 2017 and the event is set to be the largest open-air concert in the city's history. This night with Ed Sheeran will surely be a highlight, offering fans a chance to sing along to some of the most beloved songs in a truly special setting.
Bubble Run @ Expo City - Al Wasl Avenue
📆 20 January
The Bubble Run is a fun-filled event where participants run, walk, dance, and play across 3 miles of real estate, encountering Foam Bogs of coloured suds along the way. It's an experience that caters to all, from first-time fun runners to seasoned athletes, with no pressure of timing or competition. The event emphasizes enjoyment and making memories, reminiscent of car washes and bathtub bubble beards, with four vibrant foam stations (red, green, blue, and yellow) creating a wall of bubbles for participants.
A portion of the proceeds goes towards supporting families battling childhood cancer and terminal illnesses. The event is inclusive, welcoming participants of all ages and encourages families to bring strollers and wagons for the little ones, with the assurance that the bubbles are safe, eco-friendly, and non-toxic.
Registrants receive admission to the Bubble Run 5k, a Race T-shirt, a Finisher medal, and a Race bib. The event also features staggered start times for safety and convenience, allowing for relaxed and spread-out participation. Participants are encouraged to bring sunglasses, a towel, a change of shoes, and perhaps some little swim goggles and bandanas for kids. The after-party promises even more bubbles, vendors, and live DJ entertainment, ensuring the Bubble Run is an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Marvel Universe 2024 @ Coca-Cola Arena
📆 25 January - 04 February
Marvel Universe brings together an iconic assembly of superheroes including Spider-Man, The Avengers, and the Guardians of the Galaxy for a legendary battle to defend the universe from evil. Summoned by Doctor Strange, these heroes unite against the malevolent Nebula, Loki, and Green Goblin. The show promises an immersive experience with video projections and special effects that transport audiences from the Savage Land to New York City.
Witness dynamic aerial stunts from Spider-Man, motorcycle skills from Captain America, and intense showdowns among Iron Man, Thor, Black Panther, Hulk, Black Widow, Star-Lord, Gamora, Groot, Rocket, and Drax.
Classic Rock X-fest @ The Agenda
📆 26 - 27 January
The Classic Rock Experience Festival is an electrifying two-night music extravaganza dedicated to classic rock. This festival will feature six of the world's top international tribute acts, offering homage to rock legends like AC/DC, U2, The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, and Aerosmith. Each tribute act is renowned for its authentic and high-energy performances, bringing the essence and spirit of classic rock to life.
Attendees will be treated to authentic experiences from Sons of Sabbath, with their dedication to Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne, Smoke on The Water's tribute to Deep Purple, Hells Bells' embodiment of AC/DC's rock spirit, Aeroforce's Aerosmith experience, Voodoo Lounge's electrifying Rolling Stones show, and Desire's passionate representation of U2.
This festival promises to be a high-octane journey through the golden age of rock, filled with iconic anthems and unforgettable performances. It's a must-attend for classic rock enthusiasts ready to rock out to some of the most influential music ever created.