Food festivals, art exhibitions, and International Happiness Day…

Another week has begun, and we’ve found plenty of ways for you to make the most of it – whether you’re looking to relax over a gourmet meal or smash out your frustrations in a safe space. To each their own, etc.

Here are 8 things to do in Dubai this week…

Sunday March 18

1. Enjoy an evening of wine tasting

Now, here’s a classy option to start the week. MATTO Dubai is hosting an evening of food and grape pairing, featuring 25 varieties of Italian wine. Experts from Sapori Di Vino will be on hand to talk you through each tipple. Meanwhile, MATTO’s team of chefs will be creating a classic menu of Italian favourites to complement the vast array of beverages you’ll be tasting.

MATTO Dubai, The Oberoi, Business Bay. Sunday March 18, 8pm to 10pm. Dhs250 per person. Tel: (04) 444 1335. More info on website

2. Smash away your stress

Release all of that start-of-the-week tension by paying The Smash Room a visit. This unique venue, which opens to the public today, is filled with old furniture, TVs, laptops, and mannequins that you can smash using an array of tools (cricket bat, anyone?).

The Smash Room, Umm Sequim Road, Al Quoz 4, Sunday to Wednesday 11am to 10pm, Thursday to Saturday 9am to 11pm. Tel: (058) 1982323. More info on website

Monday March 19

3. Join a special supper club at The Maine

The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill is home to an exclusive pop-up supper club for one week from March 19. Now a burgeoning phenomenon in Milan’s hip culinary scene, Ma’ Hidden Kitchen is coming to Dubai to lead the event, called The Italian Way. Expect a very special five-course pairing menu prepared by Stefano Ratti, a top Italian chef who has worked in numerous Michelin-starred restaurants around the globe. Booking is essential.

The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill, DoubleTree by Hilton JBR. March 19 to March 24. Dhs350. Tel: (04) 457 6719. More info on website

4. Get a free sweet treat

You might not realise, but today is World Chocolate Caramel Day (yes, there actually is a holiday for everything). Jones the Grocer at the Dusit Thani Dubai is celebrating by giving away a free chocolate caramel bar with every main course ordered. Yum!

Jones the Grocer, Dusit Thani Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road. Monday March 19, open 24 hours. Tel: (04) 317 4457. More info on website

Tuesday March 20

5. Head to an Iranian Food Festival

Novotel Dubai Al Barsha is hosting a special Iranian Food Festival at their 365 restaurant this week in celebration of Iranian New Year. You’ll enjoy a buffet of authentic dishes prepared by chef Mohammad Noorani, who has come over especially from Tehran. Plus, if you join the celebrations, you’ll go in the draw to win a trip to Iran.

Novotel Dubai Al Barsha. March 19 to March 25, 7pm to 11pm. Dhs125 with unlimited soft beverages, Dhs225 with unlimited house beverages. Tel: (04) 304 9000. More info on Facebook

6. Celebrate International Happiness Day

Today is International Happiness Day, and there’s a happiness festival – called the Happiness Journey – taking place at the Dubai Design District. You’ll find plenty of talks, workshops and events all designed to put a smile on your dial.

The Block, Dubai Design District. March 16 to March 20, 3pm to 10pm. Free. More info on website

Wednesday March 21

7. Head along to Art Dubai

The region’s biggest gathering of galleries and artists from the Middle East and South Asia is back this week for its 12th anniversary, and it’s kicking off today. Connoisseur or first-timer, mainstream or niche, there’s something for everyone at Art Dubai. Check out our full guide here.

Art Dubai, Madinat Jumeirah, March 21 to 24, various timings. Dhs60 online, Dhs90 on the door. More info on website

8. Check out the Sikka Art Fair

The brilliant Sikka Art Fair showcases works of artists based in the UAE and GCC region, encouraging them to share their talents with the wider community. The 10-day line-up features art installations, music performances, poetry readings, film, workshops and more.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai. March 17 to 26, 6pm to 11pm. Free. More info on website

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