Dubai: Where Food, Music and Art Festivals Collide

Dubai is not just a city; it's an experience waiting to unfold, especially for Pakistanis seeking excitement and entertainment. With a dynamic blend of culture, innovation, and luxury, Dubai has become a hotspot for events and activities that cater to all interests. From world-class shopping festivals to thrilling sports events and vibrant cultural celebrations, Dubai offers an unparalleled experience for visitors from Pakistan. With its close proximity, diverse offerings, and warm hospitality, Dubai is the ultimate destination to look forward to for upcoming events, promising unforgettable moments and cherished memories for Pakistani travelers.

Gourmet Gala

The Dubai Food Festival is on for Pakistanis to indulge in the city's diverse culinary offerings till May 12. This celebration of food showcases everything from exquisite dining experiences to street food vendors and hidden culinary treasures. This 11th edition, food enthusiasts will enjoy unique gastronomic experiences, featuring limited-edition menus, guided culinary tours, cooking workshops led by renowned chefs, and unforgettable themed dining events. A part of this festival is the Dubai Restaurant Week that Pakistanis must not miss. This exclusive 17-day event invites food enthusiasts to explore a curated selection of 50 of Dubai's top dining establishments, offering delicious meals at reasonable prices. The week will entail two-course lunch menu and three-course dinner. From the rich spices of Arabic cuisine to the refined flavors of international gourmet, the week is an absolutely unforgettable culinary experience. It's a celebration of taste, innovation, and the city's vibrant food scene, encouraging everyone to discover new flavors, revisit old favorites, and delight your palate with Dubai's diverse and flavorful dining scene at an excellent value.

Dubai Food Festival

Music Extravaganza

The EarthSoul Fest returns on 4 May at the Coca-Cola Arena, promising entertainment with a purpose. This edition features internationally-acclaimed star Jason Derulo, alongside Shae Gill. Enjoy music, art, and culture with a sustainability message. From Derulo's hits to Gill's Coke Studio track Pasoori, it will be a night to remember.

Get ready for an electrifying music night with Grammy Award-winning reggae and dancehall star, Shaggy, joining forces with legendary R&B group Blackstreet for an unforgettable concert at the Coca-Cola Arena on 11 May. Shaggy, known for hits like "It Wasn't Me" and "Angel," has sold over 40 million album units and holds eight Billboard Hot 100 singles. Meanwhile, Blackstreet, famous for "No Diggity," brings their unique blend of R&B, soul, and hip-hop to the stage.

Also embark on a high seas adventure with the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra and Dubai Festival Chorus at Dubai Opera on 12 May, bringing Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl to life. Led by conductor Anthony Gariele, the performance features the complete score by acclaimed composers Hans Zimmer and Klaus Badelt.

Music enthusiasts are in for an exciting experience as renowned English singer James Blunt returns to the city on 24 May. Pakistanis must head to the Coca-Cola Arena to enjoy hits from the versatile musician's extensive 21-year career, including the chart-topping single "You're Beautiful" along with "Love Under Pressure" and "I Came For Love." With an impressive list of global achievements, the singer-songwriter has garnered widespread acclaim so don't miss this unforgettable show where Blunt will perform his stellar hits back-to-back.

Prepare for the return of the Queen of Qawwali, Abida Parveen, as she graces the stage for a highly-anticipated performance on 25 May at the Coca-Cola Arena. Renowned as one of the most revered Sufi singers globally, Parveen's showcase promises to be an unforgettable experience. Pakistanis must secure their tickets early to avoid missing out on this iconic event that will feature timeless classics like Kya Khawab Tha Woh and Tere Ishq Nachaya, as well as beloved Coke Studio hits such as Chaap Tilak and Tu Jhoom. Audiences can anticipate a captivating journey through ghazals, kafis, and Sufi tracks from her illustrious 50-year career.

Coca Cola Arena

Family-Friendly Fun

Gather your family for the UAE debut of the new play, The Lion Inside, at Zabeel Theatre on May 11-12. Against the backdrop of a golden desert, the story unfolds with a tiny mouse seeking its place in the bustling animal kingdom. Yearning to be heard, Mouse dreams of roaring like a lion. Yet, this tale teaches that courage comes in various forms, showing even the smallest creatures possess great strength. Embark on a family adventure with Tall Stories’ captivating version of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved children’s book, The Gruffalo’s Child. Join the Gruffalo’s Child as she defies her father’s cautionary tales of the Big Bad Mouse and embarks on a daring quest. Along the journey, encounter mysterious creatures and more. Filled with songs, laughter, and spooky delights, this show guarantees entertainment for all ages. Catch this performance from London’s West End at Theatre by QE2 on May 18-19.

Zabeel Theatre

Art Mania

World Art Dubai, back for its 10th edition from 2-5 May 2024 at Dubai World Trade Centre, is a must-visit for both seasoned art collectors and beginners. Featuring over 4,000 works from 300+ international galleries and artists, it's the largest affordable retail art fair in the region. From street art to Arabic calligraphy, there's a diverse range for Pakistanis to explore.