Class comedians and noteworthy operas, flute recitals and exhibitions – take a break from the fast life for a crash course on culture this weekend. From fitness events to artistic inspiration, here are the top seven things to do in Dubai to kick off September.
See Puccini’s final opera
Add a dash of culture to your weekend plans with the celebrated opera, Turandot. The final creation of Giacomo Puccini, who was considered one of the greatest Italian opera composers of all time, this three-act story takes place in ancient Peking. It tells the story of Princess Turandot who sets before her suitors three fatal riddles. This show is considered one of the most famous tenor arias in the opera repertoire and is coming to life in Dubai with the talented Shanghai Opera House this weekend only.
When: 5-7 September
Where: Dubai Opera
Big laughs for Karunesh Talwar
If you haven’t heard of Karunesh Talwar yet, you might be among a lonely few. The comic has over 26.6 million views across seven YouTube videos and nearly 500,000 subscribers on the platform to prove that his fan following is far from small. His quick wit and penchant for irony always hit the mark, whether he’s unravelling Bollywood movies or sharing his love for Masterchef. See him perform this Friday at Bollywood Park’s Rajmahal Theatre for a taste of his latest routine.
When: 6 September
Where: Bollywood Parks
Free music recital at The Fridge
This summer, Alserkal Avenue created a summer programme built on themes of speculative fiction and sustainability titled ‘Foretold Now’. It features interactive experiences unpacking the concept over free events every Saturday. This weekend marks the end of the session with a free flute recital by classical flutist Haider Rahman. The Lahore-native is a student of Pandit Harri Prasad Churrasiya, whose act will be followed by a poetry reading from Joy of Urdu.
When: 7 September
Where: The Fridge, Alserkal Avenue
Lace up your sneakers for a free fun run
Right on schedule, the Cigna Park Run returns on the first Saturday of the month with a free run at Ibn Battuta Mall. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or simply looking to improve your lifestyle, this open-invite event welcomes runners of all levels to get moving in a motivating environment. You will need to register if it’s your first time, but if you’re a regular, all you have to do is turn up. It’s the perfect place to be if you’re hoping for a guilt-free weekend.
When: 7 September
Where: Ibn Battuta Mall
Learn about the UAE’s history
Take a step back in time to revel in the incredible history and rapid rise of the United Arab Emirates at Etihad Museum. Here, you will find a body of work by celebrated photographer Ramesh Shukla, which chronicles the country’s early days and its founding fathers. This photo tour will give you a glimpse into figures of ambition and pivotal moments leading up to the Union’s establishment in December 1971. Entrance to the exhibition is free with your Etihad Museum ticket.
When: Until 31 December
Where: Etihad Museum
Play a final round at Dubai Sports World
This is your last weekend to rent a pitch or join a friendly sports tournament at Dubai Sports World. As summer winds down, this go-to spot for athletes, fitness fans and sporting enthusiasts rolls up its mats and cleans up its courts on 10 September. Football, tennis, parkour or yoga – you name it, you can try it out at this 25,000sqm venue. It’s a good way to keep active through the summer, so why not pair it with the Cigna Park Run for a full day of fitness fun?
When: Until 10 September
Where: Dubai World Trade Centre
A spotlight on regional artists
Alserkal Avenue provides a platform for artists from across the globe, whether they’re based in the Middle East or from remote corners of the world. Each gallery dedicates itself to different movements, regions and mediums for a holistic exploration of art. Resident art and design studio FN Designs is celebrating ten years in the business with the on-going ‘Life Happens’ exhibition. Bring your friends this weekend to see works by regional artists unpacking tolerance before it ends on 8 September.
When: Until 8 September
Where: FN Designs, Alserkal Avenue
