There comes a moment in the Dubai calendar when the sun relinquishes its tyrannical reign, when the evening air no longer hangs thick with humidity but carries instead a whisper of something resembling respite. October, in her infinite wisdom, bestows upon us this gentle transition – a meteorological mezza voce, if you will. It is a month that invites one to emerge from climate-controlled sanctums and rediscover the art of living in real time and three dimensions. This October, however, offers more than just tolerable weather; it presents a curated selection of events that engage the senses, challenge perceptions, and remind us why this city remains a fascinating experiment in culture, commerce, and spectacle.
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Wearable Art and Sculptures at DIFC
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) sets the stage for a striking debut with Body Geometry, the first UAE solo exhibition of Iranian artist-designer Banafsheh Hemmati. Known for her intellectual approach to form, Hemmati blurs the line between sculpture and jewellery, presenting 27 works that explore how body, space, and geometry intersect. Her practice, rooted in Islamic motifs reimagined for a contemporary world, transforms rigid patterns into fluid, expansive possibilities. The result: objects that feel both timeless and futuristic – part artefact, part architectural vision. With a Master’s in Industrial Design, a PhD in Philosophy of Art, and an international exhibition record spanning Venice, Baltimore, and Dubai itself, Hemmati bridges scholarship and sensuality, tradition and disruption.
Running daily from 9–31 October at DIFC’s Satellite Gallery, Body Geometry cements both Hemmati’s reputation and DIFC’s role as a hub for boundary-pushing contemporary art.
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Cultural and culinary show Al Hadheerah
This October, Al Hadheerah returns to Dubai’s desert with a reinvigorated spectacle of culture, cuisine, and theatre. Set against rolling dunes under a canopy of stars and lanterns, the iconic dining destination transforms every evening into an Arabian odyssey. Guests are swept into a world alive with swirling tanoura dancers, hypnotic debkeh troupes, sinuous belly dancers, and fiery performances that light up the night. Falconry and horseback displays punctuate the magic, while themed culinary nights – from the smoky mezze of Lebanese Week to the rich, indulgent flavours of Egyptian Week – transport diners across the region without leaving the sand. Each table becomes a front-row seat to storytelling that marries gastronomy and spectacle, turning a dinner into a sensorial celebration. Priced at AED 399 per person on weekdays and AED 499 on weekends, with complimentary entry for toddlers under three and 50% off for children aged 4-11.
Running daily from October, Al Hadheerah continues to cement its reputation as Dubai’s premier desert dining experience, where heritage, theatre, and gastronomy converge under the stars.
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Festival of Lights in Dubai
Dubai’s Festival of Lights returns with a dazzling lineup of entertainment, set to mesmerize both visitors and residents alike. The celebrations kick off at Al Seef on 17 October at 9pm, where fireworks will illuminate the banks of Dubai Creek, framed by traditional dhows and historic architecture juxtaposed with modern comforts. Families are advised to arrive early to secure the best vantage points for this free spectacle of colour and light. The festival then moves to Global Village, with more awe-inspiring fireworks scheduled at 9pm on 18, 19, 24, and 25 October, ensuring that the city sparkles across multiple weekends. Meanwhile, Al Seef’s historic quarter will host Noor – Festival of Lights from 17–19 October, offering a rich cultural programme featuring poetry, musicals, dance, parades, and interactive workshops celebrating Indian heritage.
Running daily from 17–19 October at Al Seef and 18–25 October at Global Village, the Festival of Lights cements Dubai’s reputation as a city that celebrates culture, spectacle, and community with flair.
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Pianist Evgeny Grinko live
A night of neoclassical piano and cinematic soundscapes comes to Dubai as Russian composer and pianist Evgeny Grinko makes his UAE debut at Zabeel Theatre on 30 October. Renowned for deeply emotive compositions such as Valse, Winter Sunshine, and Field, Grinko blends delicate melancholy with ambient textures to create music that transcends words. This one-night-only performance promises an intimate, immersive journey, showcasing both beloved favorites and selections from his new album, Winter Moonlight, alongside a few surprises crafted especially for the evening. Grinko’s music, embraced by millions worldwide, has become a modern soundtrack for introspection, longing, and beauty. With tickets starting at AED 190, the concert offers a rare opportunity to experience his evocative soundscapes live, in a setting designed for connection and reflection.
Running exclusively on 30 October at Zabeel Theatre, the performance cements Grinko’s arrival on the international stage and Dubai’s place as a hub for world-class live music.
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An electrifying open-air music experience under Dubai’s skyline
After a debut season that drew over 90,000 music fans, Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience returns this October, bringing the world’s biggest electronic music artists and brands to a spectacular open-air venue beneath Dubai’s iconic skyline. Kicking off season two, Italian electronic innovator Anyma (Matteo Milleri) presents his groundbreaking Quantum concept on 31 October, marking its UAE debut. Known for his emotive performances, cutting-edge sound design, and immersive visual storytelling, Anyma has made waves globally with his Genesys album trilogy and record-breaking residencies in Ibiza and at Sphere Las Vegas. At Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour, attendees can expect state-of-the-art production, breathtaking sunset views over the harbour, and the high-energy atmosphere that has made Ushuaïa Ibiza legendary. Tickets are available from AED 500 for what promises to be an unforgettable night of music, visuals, and innovation.
Running on 31 October at Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour, the event cements Dubai’s status as a premier destination for world-class electronic music under the stars.
