8 fun things to do in Dubai this week: January 13 to 16

Happy Monday!

Looking for some things to do in Dubai this week? There’s plenty from afternoon tea in a hot air balloon to a new digital art experience, a ladies’ night, and much more…

Here are 8 fun and festive things to do in Dubai this week

Monday, January 13

Let’s talk business

Indian Tapas Bar, Revelry, is offering a great business lunch for just Dhs99. Offering both a non-vegetarian and vegetarian menu, diners will enjoy two starters, two mains and one dessert. There’s chicken tikka dimsum, beef kebab, pan-seared sea bass, and Andhra-style chilli chicken. You can view the menu here. 

Revelry, Indian Tapas Bar, Dubai Hills Estate, Business Park 1, Dubai, 12pm to 3pm Mon to Fri, Dhs99. Tel: (0)58 143 2426. revelrydxb.com

Discover Japan Through the eyes of Van Gogh

One of the world’s most well-known artists was a huge fan of traditional Japanese prints. At the Theatre of Digital Art this January, you can discover how Ukiyo-e – a school of Japanese art depicting subjects from everyday life – shaped Van Gogh’s style. Head here to book your seat on either January 13, 14, 15, 20, 28 or 29. Tickets cost Dhs125 per adult and Dhs100 per child (ages three to 12).

Van Gogh X Japan, Theatre of Digital Art, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, various dates in Jan, Dhs100 per child, Dhs125 per adult. Tel: (0)4 277 4044. toda.ae

Tuesday, January 14

Take a tasty trip to the heart of Alserkal Avenue

Tashas Group, the masterminds behind Tashas, Flamingo, Galaxy Bar, and Bungalo34 (to name a few), has introduced a new community-born project, NALA. It’s a fancy canteen with a twist on the grab-and-go food concept. It officially launches in February but is currently in the ‘dress rehearsal’ phase, but you’re still welcome to go and chow down. Expect quick and fresh food from breakfast items to more indulgent dishes. There’s an indoor and outdoor dining space, both packed with good vibes.

NALA, The Yard, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, daily 9am to 10pm. @enjoynala

Detox at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown

Focusing on self-care this January? Head to Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown to the Wellbeing Holistic Healing Spa for a luxurious treatment. For Dhs600, you can relax with a two-hour treatment that includes a lymphatic drainage massage for 60 minutes, a detoxifying seaweed wrap for 30 minutes, and a customised detox facial for 30 minutes. You can enjoy complimentary access to the sauna and steam room and a cup of signature herbal detox tea.

Wellbeing Holistic Healing Spa, Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, Dubai, available through Jan, Dhs600. Tel: (0)4 210 2222. ihg.com

Wednesday, January 15

Queens, your thrones await

On Wednesdays, it’s ladies’ night at La Mezcaleria JBR at The Pavilion in JBR. For Dhs140, you can indulge in two starters or salads and five selected drinks. Your menu includes guacamole, dynamite shrimps, beef sliders, chicken tacos, and mac and cheese bites. Just want sips? You pay Dhs95 for five selected drinks at the bar. Your night will be paired with live entertainment and stunning views of JBR Beach from the terrace.

La Mezcaleria JBR, Pavilion at The Beach, opposite JBR, Dubai, 9pm to 1am every Wed, Tel: (0)56 520 2020. @lamezcaleriajbr

Get ready for an unmissable cocktail adventure

Line Athens, number 6 on the World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 is bringing its iconic ‘Method of Anarchy’ to Dubai, taking over Paradiso Dubai. Expect standout cocktails, including the Delusional Margarita, unforgettable flavours, and stunning views. Reserve your spot at 04 275 9999.

Line Athens x Paradiso Dubai, FIVE LUXE JBR, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, 9pm to 12am on Jan 15. Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @paradisodubai

Thursday, January 16

Hola Tacosita

Authentic Mexican street food has a new address at Barsha Heights. A hole-in-the-wall taco window serving up authentic birria tacos, burritos, and fresh vibes. The recipe is Chef Salam’s & Chef Tarek’s time in Mexico and prepared fresh daily using techniques that bring the streets of Mexico straight to Dubai. There’s outdoor seating, and a drive-through option. Prices range from just Dhs39 to 46. Vamos!

Tacosita, Thuraya Telecom Tower, Barsha Heights, open daily 11am to 2am. Tel: (0)58 674 6376 @tacosita.ae

Enjoy an afternoon tea in a hot air balloon

If you’re looking for a bucket list dining experience, then you need to book Balloons at the Palace, an Instagrammable new pop-up at Jumeirah Al Qasr. The pop-up, running until April, features four tethered hot air balloons, where you can enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea priced from Dhs250; and a five-course dinner priced at Dhs395. Both are available from Wednesday to Sunday.