May is shaping up to be one of Dubai's most action-packed months yet. Whether you're after world-class comedy, live music, immersive art, heart-pumping outdoor challenges or family-friendly fun, the city has something lined up for everyone. From intimate theatre nights to landmark festivals drawing global icons, here's everything happening in Dubai this May that you won't want to miss.
Dubai Restaurant Week
Dubai Restaurant Week is back, running from May 1 to May 17, and it's your chance to eat your way through 130 of the city's best restaurants at unbeatable prices. Choose from a two-course lunch for AED 125 or a three-course dinner for AED 250, with menus curated to showcase each restaurant's signature style. From Japanese street food to European-Asian fusion, there's something for every palate. Book your table through the Careem app now.
Wagef! Amal Taleb Live
Get ready to laugh out loud! Comedian, TV presenter and actress Amal Taleb takes the stage at Meyana Theatre, Jumeirah Beach Hotel on May 1 for a night packed with warmth, wit and pure joy. Having performed across the USA, Lebanon, Jordan, the UAE and Qatar, Taleb brings her signature blend of heartfelt stories and sharp humour to Dubai. Tickets start from AED 130 (Gold), AED 210 (Platinum) and AED 315 (VIP). Book yours now!
The Good Energy Club
Take a breather from the city's hustle at the Good Energy Club on May 2 at Terra, Expo City Dubai. Presented by MyDubai Communities, Terra and The Grateful Mile, this free community wellness experience brings people together through movement, mindfulness and meaningful connection. From energising workouts to restorative sessions, there's something for every level. Plus, enjoy F&B and market stalls in a relaxed social setting. Sign up now and show up for yourself!
Gaurav Gupta Live
Get ready to laugh out loud as Gaurav Gupta, the dentist-turned-comedian, brings his brand new set to Dubai on May 2. Catch him live at Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, The Indian High School, for a night packed with sharp punchlines and the kind of relatable humour that hits close to home. From South Asian family dynamics to everyday life moments, Gupta's comedy is guaranteed to keep you in stitches. Doors open an hour before showtime. Tickets from AED 125 to AED 880.
Saturdays at the House
Bring your kids to Saturdays at the House on May 2 at House of Arts, Expo City Dubai, for a screen-free day packed with art, wellness and music! Designed for children aged 4 to 16, hands-on sessions led by artists and creative facilitators spark self-expression and curiosity at every level. Explore the Interwoven exhibition featuring 20 Gulf artists, while parents unwind at The Third Place cafe. A truly enriching day out for the whole family. Entry from AED 35.
Nurlan Saburov Live
Kazakh stand-up comedy star Nurlan Saburov is bringing his sharp, observational humour to Dubai Opera on May 7 for a night you won't want to miss. Known for his dry wit and effortless storytelling, Saburov has a rare gift for turning everyday moments into laugh-out-loud gold. Making his debut at this iconic venue, expect an evening of clever comedy, subtle irony and genuine crowd connection. Tickets start from AED 290, with categories ranging up to AED 1900 for VVIP.
Sing for the Nation by UAE National Orchestra
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music, pride and patriotism! On May 8, the UAE National Orchestra takes the stage at Dubai Opera for Sing for the Nation, a breathtaking concert celebrating the UAE's rich cultural identity. From beloved classics like Dar Zayed and Rijal Wallah Rijal to timeless patriotic anthems, every song tells the story of a nation. A night you will not want to miss. Tickets from AED 150 to AED 250.
Carl Cox at Pacha ICONS
Electronic music icon Carl Cox is bringing his legendary sound to Dubai for the season finale of Pacha ICONS at FIVE LUXE JBR on May 9. The open-air stage at Playa Pacha will pulse with raw Ibiza energy as Cox delivers a powerful closing set that only he can. Crowned DJ of the Year by DJ Mag and Mixmag, this is one night you cannot miss. Tickets start from AED 200.
Golden Era of Arabic Music
Get ready for an unforgettable night of timeless classics at the Theatre of Digital Art on May 9. Golden Era of Arabic Music takes you on a soul-stirring journey through iconic Lebanese, Egyptian, Khaliji and Syrian repertoire, inspired by more than 14 legendary artists. From sweeping medleys to deeply emotional performances, every note celebrates the golden age of Arabic melody. An intimate setting, a generation-defining soundtrack. Tickets start from AED 160 to AED 290.
Wagef! Alaa El Sheikh Live
Get ready for a night of sharp wit and non-stop laughter as Egyptian comedian Alaa El Sheikh takes the stage at Meyana Theatre, Jumeirah Beach Hotel on May 9. Known for his effortless storytelling and observational humour rooted in everyday culture and modern life, Alaa delivers a show that hits close to home. From heartfelt anecdotes to hilarious regional quirks, every moment lands. Tickets start from AED 220. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
Harsh’O’Ullas ft.Harsh Gujral
Get ready for a night of pure, unfiltered laughter as Indian comedy sensation Harsh Gujral brings his hit show Harsh'O'Ullas to Dubai Opera on May 10. Known for his sharp wit, relatable humor and effortless stage presence, Gujral turns everyday moments into comedic gold. Whether you are a longtime fan or a first-timer, this is one evening you will not want to miss. Tickets start from AED 115. Book yours now!
Strings & Dreams: Mozart & Beethoven - Vienna’s Finest
Step into an evening of timeless classical brilliance at Dubai Opera on May 10, as the acclaimed Baldaquin Ensemble brings Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven to life through masterful string performances. Part of the Virtuoso Sunday Series, this captivating concert pairs world-class music with a live art showcase by Dubai-based contemporary artist Alena Lavdovskaya, whose paintings inspired by the music will also be up for sale. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets from AED 450 to AED 750.
Young Maestro: Meet the String Family
Block your calendars for a special afternoon at Dubai Opera on May 10! The Baldaquin Ensemble, a world-class string quartet, brings timeless works by Bach, Fauré, Mozart and more to life in a show where music becomes conversation. Learn what makes high notes soar, discover how plucking strings transforms sound, and lose yourself in captivating performances. Part of the Young Maestro – Sunday Morning Family Series, tickets start from AED 250. A perfect day out for the whole family!
NEMR - Rampant Disorder
Nemr is bringing his latest stand-up special, Rampant Disorder, to Dubai Opera on May 10. Sharp, funny and surprisingly thought-provoking, the show takes a hilarious dive into modern parenthood, exploring how raising a child today means navigating social media, AI misinformation and a world that looks nothing like the one we grew up in. Expect big laughs with even bigger ideas. Tickets are available from AED 195 to AED 595.
Al Maestro
Catch Al Maestro, a laugh-out-loud comedy play coming to Dubai Opera on May 15 and 16. Starring the brilliant Tariq AlAli, the show follows a band leader doing his best to keep his team in line, only for chaos to take over at every turn. Wildly different personalities, sharp punchlines and relatable humour make this a night of non-stop entertainment. Tickets start from AED 99. Book yours now!
Art Dubai
Art Dubai 2026 is back, and it's bigger than ever. Marking 20 years of celebrating creativity, this landmark edition runs from May 15 to 17 at Madinat Jumeirah, with a VIP preview on May 14. Discover bold works from artists across the Middle East, Central and South Asia, and Africa, alongside gallery showcases, large-scale installations, live performances, and talks. This is one cultural moment Dubai's art lovers simply cannot afford to miss.
Swedish House Mafia at Ushuaïa Dubai
Swedish House Mafia is bringing their legendary 3.0 era to Dubai Harbour on May 16, and this is one night you simply cannot miss. Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso will take over the stunning waterfront venue with high-tech production, cinematic visuals and timeless club anthems. General admission starts at AED 195, with table bookings from AED 6,000. Tickets are going fast so grab yours now before they're gone!
DXB Snow Run 2026
The DXB Snow Run is back for its seventh edition at Ski Dubai, and it's going to be epic! On May 17, runners aged 13 to 70 will take on the slopes at a chilling -4°C, jogging loops through an iconic indoor ski arena. Choose your distance, 3km or 5km, go solo or bring a team of five, and push your limits like never before. Tickets start from AED 94.5.
Svetlana Zakharova - Gabrielle Chanel Ballet
Svetlana Zakharova, principal ballerina of Moscow's Bolshoi Ballet and Milan's La Scala, graces Dubai Opera on May 17 for a spectacular two-part evening alongside a star-studded cast from the Bolshoi Theatre. The night opens with Come Un Respiro, a piece created exclusively for Svetlana, followed by Ballet Gabrielle Chanel, a stunning tribute to Coco Chanel featuring 80 breathtaking costumes. A celebration of dance, fashion and storytelling not to be missed. Tickets from AED 395 to AED 3,500.
Dubai Esports and Games Festival
The Dubai Esports and Games Festival returns from May 22 to June 7, and this year is the biggest edition yet. The crown jewel, GameExpo, runs June 5-7 at Dubai World Trade Centre, featuring 300+ games, cosplay competitions, anime zones, motorsport simulators and exclusive game previews. Top it off with the Dubai Cosplay Championship on June 7, boasting a prize pool of AED 50,000. Tickets start from just AED 10.
Lulu Santos Live
Lulu Santos, one of Brazil's most iconic pop-rock legends, is bringing his electric stage presence to Dubai Opera on May 23 for a one-night-only performance. With a career spanning over four decades, expect a setlist packed with timeless hits like Tempos Modernos and Toda Forma de Amor. An evening of nostalgia, rhythm and pure South American energy awaits. Tickets start from AED 399.
Adam Live
Experience a stunning night of Arabic music at Dubai Opera on May 28 as the legendary Adam takes the stage. From his breakthrough at age 14 to viral hits like Ya Helou, this powerhouse performer blends classical Arabic music with contemporary pop across Lebanese, Egyptian and Khaleeji styles. Catch his most iconic tracks live in one unforgettable evening. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets from AED 295 to AED 1,995.
Taha Suliman Live in Concert
Experience the magic of Sudanese music live at The Agenda on May 29, as acclaimed artist Taha Suliman takes the stage for an unforgettable night. Known for his powerful vocals and seamless blend of traditional Sudanese melodies with contemporary Afro-Arab sounds, Suliman has captivated generations of fans worldwide. Expect soaring performances, electric energy and music that moves you to your core. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets from AED 150.
Ivan Vasiliev: The Last Dance
Mark your calendars for May 30 at Dubai Opera — an unforgettable night awaits. The Alexandrite Gala honours Ivan Vasiliev, one of the most powerful figures in modern ballet, in his final performance. Principal dancers from the Bolshoi Theatre, La Scala, Paris Opera Ballet and Dutch National Ballet take the stage in a stunning showcase of classical masterpieces. And the surprise? Ballet meets the spirit of Freddie Mercury and Queen. Tickets from AED 290 to AED 1350.
Shahba Mayyeri
Ummulkiram Pardawala
Shahba Mayyeri
Shahba Mayyeri
Shahba Mayyeri
