9 fun things to do in Dubai this weekend: December 20 to 22

It’s a busy one…

As Christmas is (almost) here, we’ve rounded up a mix of festive and non-festive things to do in Dubai this weekend. There are lots to choose from, so we hope you enjoy.

Friday, December 20

Watch the winter sun as it sets

Watch Dubai’s skyline transform into a canvas of gold at Aelia at The Link, One Za’abeel. “Chic at Six” is an elegant prelude to the evening. Every week, Monday to Friday, from 6pm to 8pm, buy one beverage and get one complimentary, along with two complimentary tartines, setting the stage for an unforgettable sunset experience.

Aelia, The Link, One Za’abeel, Dubai, Monday to Friday, 6pm to 8pm. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @aeliadubai

Embrace some culture

Attend a free evening of music and poetry at The Spaces Between: Sand and Sea taking place on Jumeirah Beach. This includes celebrated poets Lemn Sissay OBE, Carlos Andrés Gómez, Dr Afra Atiq, and Shahd Thani, accompanied by live musical performances from Arqam Al Abri, Riri and the Dubai Youth Choir.  It’s hosted by Emirates Literature Foundation, in partnership with Emirates and Dubai Art & Culture Authority, so it’s bound to be a great night. Register here.

The Spaces Between: Sand and Sea, Nessnass Beach, Jumeirah, Dubai, Friday, Dec 20, 6:30pm to 8:30pm. @elfdubai

Let someone else entertain the kids

The children’s obsession, CoComelon LIVE: Sing-A-Long is coming to Dubai and we know parents will be queuing to get in. CoComelon’s favorite teacher Ms. Appleberry welcomes JJ, his friends and you to come along on a musical field trip. Tickets start at Dhs150, but you can also add a meet-and-greet too for an extra charge.

Cocomelon, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, December 20 to 21. coca-cola-arena.com

Saturday, December 21

Make an edible gingerbread masterpiece

If you’re feeling festive but don’t particulary want to go to a Christmas market. An adorable creative activity, gingerbread cookie decorating is taking place in Juan Valdez Café and it’s organised by Fosc Art. Even if you’re no Van Gogh, they’ll be artists on hand to help you with your designs, so you don’t have to worry about creating something to hang in an art gallery. It’s only Dhs120 per person which includes the workshop, breakfast, coffee and a juice. Go to their instagram to register.

Juan Valdez Cafe, Jumeirah 2, Dec 21, 11am to 12:30pm. @fosc.art

Be immersed in winter magic

Head to Dream for their special winter inspired performances and of course, delicious food. You’re guaranteed a lively and magical atmosphere so you can get in the festive spirit. Along with exclusive performances, guests can enjoy special drinks, festive dishes, and an overall celebration of the season’s enchantment.

Dream, Address Beach Resort, JBR, open Wednesday to Sunday, 8 pm til late. Tel +971 (0) 4 220 0224. @dreamdubaiofficial

Have breakfast with Santa

Head down to JLT’s Splendour Fields and take part in an incredbile opportunity to have breakfast with Santa Claus before his busiest day of the year. It’s Dhs120 per child but the memories are priceless. Your child will get a kids’ special pancake, a hot choc or baby chino, a soft toy and a picture with Santa too. Book in advance

Spendour Fields, JLT, Dubai, Saturday, Dec 21, 9am to 11am. Tel: (0)50 427 5217. @splendourfields

Sunday, December 22

And relaaaaax

Sundays are the perfect day to unwind. with Detokkusu, a wellness offer at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, for the mind, body and soul. Available every Sunday, starting from 8am, begin with a 60-minute massage at the Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane, along with full access to spa facilities, including a sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi. For dinner, guests are invited to experience a five-course pescatarian or vegetarian menu at Taiko.

Detokkusu Experience, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Dubai, Sundays, spa from 8am, dinner 7pm to 10:30pm, Dhs675. @sofiteltheobelisk

Break a sweat

Pilates is a trending activity at the moment. Try a class at Karve, as they bring their unique transformer pilates which includes warm-up, full body workout and a mindfulness session. Classes are 50 minutes long, and you can also book privately too. Prices start at Dhs160, but there are packages for 10, 20 or 100 sessions.

Karve, Alserkal Avenue, from Dhs160. Tel: (0)52 909 4343. @karve.dubai

Take your shot at paintball

If your gang prefers fun and games over brunch and drinks, there’s a new playground for you to try. Singo Paintball is the UAE’s first indoor paintball facility, and you’re sure to have bursts of fun here with your mates.

Singo Paintball, Wafi Mall, Dubai, Tel: (04) 575 2333. @singopaintball

Enjoy…