Weekend plans looking a little bare? We can fix that. Dubai is serving up plenty to keep you busy, from a nostalgic night with Lucky Ali and big laughs at The Laughter Factory to bottomless gelato, free movies and even a morning walk through DXB.

Whatever mood you’re in, here are some of the best things to do in Dubai this weekend.

Celebrate India’s 80th Independence Day with a feast at Purani Dilli. Both branches in Dubai (Bur Dubai and Sheikh Zayed Road) are serving up a special buffet packed with Indian favourites and tricolour-inspired dishes. It’s paired with live patriotic music throughout the evening, making it a lively one for families and friends looking to celebrate over good food.

Where: Purani Dilli, Bur Dubai and Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road
When: Saturday August 15, 6.30pm to 11.30pm (SZR); 7pm to 11.30pm (Bur Dubai)
Cost: Dhs80 per person
Contact: (056) 414 2213, puranidillidubai.com

Dubai Mallathon is bringing its popular indoor walking and running concept to DXB, making the airport the first non-mall venue to host the citywide fitness initiative. The next session takes place on Friday, August 14 at Terminal 3, Concourse B. There will be two sessions to choose from, running from 7.30am to 9.30am and 9.30am to 11.30am. Participants can choose between a 750-metre route or a longer 1.5-kilometre walk, making it suitable for different ages and fitness levels. The best news? There’s no cost to join and no registration is required.

Where: Dubai International Airport, Terminal 3, Concourse B
When: Every Friday of August, 7.30am to 9.30am, adnd 9.30am to 11.30am
Cost: Free
Contact: @dxb

If you needed an excuse to eat unlimited gelato, this is it. Cioccolatitaliani is launching Dubai’s first Bottomless Gelato Brunch, serving unlimited artisan gelato alongside flowing Italian chocolate, homemade pastries and a signature mini affogato. Expect cannoli, maritozzi, bignè and more, plus one hot or cold drink, with the experience running every Sunday until the end of August.

Where: Cioccolatitaliani, Dubai Festival City Mall
When: Every Sunday until the end of August, 12pm to 10pm (launches Sunday, July 19)
Cost: Dhs149 per adult, Dhs79 per child, Dhs399 for two adults and two children
Contact: @cioccolatitaliani.ae

In need of a good laugh? The Laughter Factory is back with its August tour, bringing five comedians to the stage for a night of sharp observations, hilarious storytelling and plenty of crowd work. Leading the line-up is British comedian and Paralympic medallist Ricky Balshaw, joined by American rising star Tevin Everett, UAE favourites Abz Ali and Miqdaad Dohadwala, and Dubai’s Andrea Brooks. Expect everything from takes on expat life and relationships to cultural observations and everyday chaos. Get to planning with friends and book here.

Where: Bla Bla by McGettigan’s, Radisson Damac Hills, and Dukes, The Palm
When: August 13, 14 and 15
Cost: Varies
Contact: thelaughterfactory.com

While going out during peak summer heat might not sound as tempting, a free movie night may just get you out of the house. Cinema Akil has recently launched their free indoor movie screenings taking place throughout the month of August. From poignant stop-motion films like The Tower to children’s favourites such as Smurfs: The Lost Village, the venue is screening a selection of must-watch movies every weekend at noon. Do note, although it’s free, you would need to book online via their webpage to secure a spot.

Location: Cinema Akil, Warehouse 68, Alserkal Avenue
Timings: Weekends from 12pm (for a limited period only)
Price: Free
@cinemaakil

Popular Indian singer, songwriter and actor Lucky Ali brings his unmistakable sound to Dubai this August. Known for his soulful vocals, poetic storytelling and timeless melodies, the music icon will perform beloved favourites, including O Sanam, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum and Safarnama in a night of nostalgia and emotion.

Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Citywalk Dubai
When: August 16, 2026
Cost: Prices from Dhs125
@cocacolaarena

Topgolf doesn’t have to break the bank. Throughout summer, bays are available from Monday to Friday for just Dhs99 per hour. Head on over from opening until 5pm to avail.

Where: Topgolf Dubai, Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills
When: Mon to Fri, opening until 5pm
Cost: Dhs99 per hour
Contact: 04 371 9999, @topgolfdubai

Who said classical music was just for grown-ups? Kids & Classics is back, this time introducing little music lovers to Beethoven with a little help from Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Expect live trumpet and piano performances, storytelling, colourful visuals and plenty of interactive games to keep curious minds entertained. It’s a fun first taste of classical music, with a familiar fairytale thrown into the mix. Just note, children under 12 will need to be accompanied by an adult. Book here.

Where: Theatre of Digital Art, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
When: August 15, 11am
Cost: Dhs270 one adult and child, Dhs189 per adult, Dhs89 per child
Contact: toda.ae

Images: Supplied