Welcome to 2025!

Greetings, 2025! It’s a pleasure to meet you. The transition to this new year may have taken us by surprise (seriously, where did 2024 disappear?), but there’s no time to dwell on the past; our gaze is set firmly ahead. Exciting developments await in the year to come, from historic concerts in the UAE to the unveiling of luxurious hotels, the launch of world-renowned restaurants, and invigorating fitness challenges. Dubai is gearing up to impress like never before. Here are 25 things to keep on your radar for 2025 in the UAE. We’ll be right there alongside you.

Jump to:

• MUST-Eat-at Restaurants
• Upcoming Bars
• Gigs to Groove At
• Events to Book
• Sports Events to Warm Up For

MUST-Eat-at Restaurants

Carbone

The legendary New York Italian restaurant, Carbone, is making its way to Dubai in 2025, after captivating diners in Manhattan for over a decade. Known for its opulent atmosphere and a menu that has charmed everyone from Rihanna to Kim Kardashian, the Dubai branch promises to deliver the same magic. Expect tuxedo-clad waiters serving up classics like linguine alle vongole, all set in a dining room inspired by the elegance of 1950s New York City. Slated to open at Atlantis The Royal, this hotspot will be the place to see and be seen.

Opening 2025. Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, @carbonedxb.

Coco Grill & Lounge

After establishing itself as a London favorite, Coco Grill & Lounge is set to debut in Downtown Dubai, offering stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. With a design inspired by the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the menu will feature everything from flame-grilled steaks to sizzling seafood. Additionally, the Redemption Bar will serve an array of refreshing mocktails, making it an excellent spot for enjoying the in-house entertainment.

Coming soon. Downtown Dubai, coco-restaurants.ae.

folly Brasserie

folly, a previous winner at the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards, is making a highly anticipated comeback in January 2025 at Address Montgomerie in Emirates Hills. Guests can look forward to a chic ambiance combined with exceptional European dishes, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Opening January. Address Montgomerie, Emirates Hills, folly.ae.

Frou Frou

Bringing a touch of early 20th-century Parisian glamour to Dubai, Frou Frou is set to be the third venue under this upscale brand, with another location planned in Marbella, Spain. Helmed by Chef Leonid Ivanov, patrons can expect a modern twist on French classics, featuring delicacies like foie gras and truffles, all accompanied by the freshest seafood. This elegant spot will open its doors in The Lana, Dorchester Collection.

Coming soon. The Lana – Dorchester Collection Dubai, Business Bay, froufroudxb.com.

Gatsby Barcelona

Ready to experience a unique dining and entertainment concept? Gatsby Barcelona is set to open on the rooftop of Nakheel Mall on Palm Jumeirah. This Spanish restaurant will offer an immersive experience with live performances accompanying an exquisite menu that includes dishes like sole roulades and fresh lobster.

Coming soon. Palm Jumeirah, gatsbydubai.com.

Upcoming Bars

Brewdog

The renowned Scottish craft beer brand, Brewdog, is expanding to Dubai with plans for eight unique venues throughout the city. Known for their eccentric branding and innovative brews, expect drinks inspired by pop culture figures from Elvis to Willy Wonka. Stay tuned for the exact locations as they are unveiled.

Coming soon. brewdog.com.

J1 Beach

J1 Beach is the latest hotspot to replace La Mer beach, offering a vibrant Tulum-inspired atmosphere. With 12 new venues to explore, including Gitano and Gigi Rigolatto, this destination is perfect for weekend relaxation and entertainment.

Jumeirah 1, j1beach.com.

LITT

From the creators of CLAP, LITT will be nestled within the KIRA restaurant at the highly-anticipated Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. This bar is set to feature Instagram-worthy decor and a lineup of renowned DJs, promising a lively atmosphere as it opens in 2025.

Coming soon. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Umm Suqeim, jumeirah.com.

Swingers

Perfect for those looking for a fun outing, Swingers will introduce a unique crazy golf experience paired with a mixed-drink bar. Although initially set to open in 2024, it will now welcome guests in 2025. Enjoy drinks while navigating the course for a chance to score a hole-in-one.

Coming soon. Bluewaters, swingerscrazygolf.ae.

1920

If you’re in search of an elevated drinking experience, look no further than the 52nd-floor bar ‘1920.’ With its Art Deco design and breathtaking city views, this venue will serve a sophisticated selection of creative cocktails and vintage sparkling wines. Make sure to add this to your must-visit list for 2025.

Coming soon. ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, 1920.ae.

Gigs to Groove At

Boyz II Men

Get ready for an unforgettable evening under the stars as the legendary Boyz II Men headline the Saadiyat Nights in Abu Dhabi this January. Known for their harmonious vocals, they will serenade the audience with timeless classics like “End of the Road” and “One Sweet Day.” Don’t miss out on this musical journey!

From Dhs225. Sat Jan 25, from 5pm. Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, ticketmaster.ae.

CAS

Indie-rock legends CAS will take the stage at the Coca-Cola Arena on January 31. Known for their blend of dream pop and rock, they will deliver a one-night-only performance featuring hits like “Apocalypse” and “Sunsetz.” Get your tickets now and prepare for an electrifying night.

From Dhs195. Fri Jan 31. Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, livenation.me (800 223 388).

REWIND FEST DXB

Prepare for a nostalgic journey as REWIND FEST DXB returns to Dubai on February 22. This festival will shine a spotlight on ’80s icons, featuring performances from artists like Tony Hadley, Midge Ure, and Tom Bailey from The Thompson Twins. Hosted at Bla Bla in JBR, it’s a must-attend for fans of throwback music.

From Dhs395. Sat Feb 22, from noon. Bla Bla, JBR, rewindfestdxb.com (04 584 4111).

Coldplay

The wait is almost over! Coldplay will perform at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Sports City Stadium across four nights in January. This is your chance to experience their spectacular show, featuring hits from their extensive catalog, including “Sky Full of Stars.” Grab your tickets before they sell out!

Prices vary. Fri Jan 9, Sat Jan 11, Sun Jan 12, Tue Jan 14. Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi, livenation.me.

Green Day

The iconic band Green Day will make their Middle East debut at Dubai’s Expo City. Known for their punk rock anthems, they will perform classics like “American Idiot” and “Boulevard of Broken Dreams.” This concert promises to be a milestone event for music lovers in the region.

From Dhs445. Mon Jan 25, from 5pm. Dubai Expo City, greendaydxb.com.

Events to Book

Al Quoz Arts Fest

Mark your calendars for January 25 as the Al Quoz Arts Fest returns with a weekend filled with live performances, pop-up shops, and engaging film screenings. This festival, organized by Alserkal, invites everyone to explore Dubai’s vibrant creative scene.

From Dhs63. Sat Jan 25-Sun Jan 26, 10am-11pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, dubai.platinumlist.net.

Dubai Summer Surprises

This yearly initiative brings a wave of excitement during the summer months, featuring flash sales, pop-up events, concerts, and family-friendly activities. Although the exact lineup for 2025 remains a surprise, stay tuned for updates as the summer approaches. In the meantime, check out the ongoing Dubai Shopping Festival for an array of deals and events!

Summer 2025. visitdubai.com.

Jack Whitehall (and his dad)

If you enjoyed the antics of Jack Whitehall and his father in their Netflix series, you’re in for a treat. Their live show promises a night full of laughs, sharing personal stories and family adventures, all while keeping it light-hearted and entertaining.

From Dhs350. Fri Feb 14. Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, dubai.platinumlist.net (800 223 388).

Taste of Dubai

Food enthusiasts, rejoice! The Taste of Dubai festival is set to take place from February 14 to 16, featuring celebrity-led workshops, delectable food samples, and live entertainment. Anticipate a lineup of renowned restaurants showcasing their best dishes, making this a culinary event not to be missed.

From Dhs55. Fri Feb 14-Sun Feb 16, from noon. Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, Dubai Media City, tasteofdubaifestival.com.

WATERBOMB

Get ready for an exhilarating return of the South Korean WATERBOMB festival in summer 2025! Known for its high-energy performances and K-pop stars, this festival promises to soak the crowd with excitement. While the official date and lineup are yet to be confirmed, keep an eye out for updates.

Prices and date TBC. waterbombdubai.com.

Sports Events to Warm Up For

Dubai Fitness Challenge

Every October, the Dubai Fitness Challenge encourages residents to engage in free fitness activities throughout the city. From group classes on the beach to yoga sessions and races, this month-long initiative motivates everyone to set and achieve fitness goals.

October 2025. dubaifitnesschallenge.com.

Dubai Marathon

The Middle East’s inaugural marathon is back on Sunday, January 12, 2025. This prestigious event features a full marathon, a 10km race, and a fun run, making it accessible to participants of all skill levels. Whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines, mark this on your calendar!

Dhs184 (4km), Dhs312 (10km), Dhs551 (marathon). Sun Jan 12, from 7am. Starting at Umm Suqeim Road, dubaimarathon.org.

Emirates 7s

Experience the thrill of rugby at the Emirates 7s tournament, which combines exhilarating matches with live concerts and family-friendly activities. Expect top-tier performances, as the event usually takes place in December. Get your costumes ready!

December 2025. The Sevens Stadium, Al Ain Road, emiratesdubai7s.com.

Hero Dubai Desert Classic

Returning for its 36th edition in January 2025, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic is the oldest golf event in the region. With top golfers competing, including reigning champion Rory McIlroy, this tournament is a highlight of the sporting calendar.

Free. Thu Jan 16-Sun Jan 19, 10am-11pm. Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road, dubaidesertclassic.com.

Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge

Join the cycling community at the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge on February 23. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, this event features a 92km race for adults and shorter distances for kids, encouraging families to get active together.

Prices vary. Sat Feb 22-Sun Feb 23. Expo City, cyclechallenge.ae.

Check-in Time

Ciel Hotel

The world’s tallest hotel is nearing completion, promising a breathtaking experience for guests. Standing at 365 meters, it will feature a rooftop infinity pool and bar with stunning views of Palm Jumeirah, along with an all-day dining experience and a state-of-the-art gym. Prepare for a stay among the clouds!

Coming soon. Dubai Marina, thefirstgroup.com.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab

This luxurious hotel is designed with a super-yacht aesthetic, offering incredible views of the Burj Al Arab and a private beach. With 408 elegantly appointed rooms and several exquisite dining options, it’s set to redefine luxury stays in Dubai.

Coming soon. Umm Suqeim, jumeirah.com.

Mama Shelter

The Parisian hotel brand, known for its vibrant decor, is finally making its debut in Dubai. Set to open on January 15 in Business Bay, Mama Shelter will feature 197 stylish rooms, an all-day restaurant, a speakeasy, and a rooftop bar, all promising stunning city views.

Opening January 2025. Business Bay, mamashelter.com/dubai.

Looking for Things to Do in Dubai?

Dubai’s Best Restaurants: 85 Incredible Places to Dine

Discover the top dining spots you must visit this week!

All the Best Concerts and Gigs Coming to Dubai This Month and Beyond

There’s something happening for every musical taste!

All the Sports Events in Dubai in 2025 to Sign Up For

Make 2025 your year of personal bests!