Dubai's weekend guide: Salsa lessons, pizza workshops and family entertainment
From interactive kids' activities at historic Al Ghurair Centre to artisan markets and culinary workshops, Dubai offers diverse weekend experiences for families, couples and solo visitors seeking relaxation and connection.
Family activities at Al Ghurair Centre
Al Ghurair Centre, the MENA region's first modern shopping mall established in 1981 in Deira, hosts interactive family programming through September 13. The Main Atrium features games, kids' workshops, entertainment and complimentary treats. Following its major 2013 redevelopment that added 150 stores and expanded family entertainment facilities, the mall continues to position itself as a family destination. Admission to the activation is complimentary with purchases exceeding Dh45.
Indoor artisan market at City Walk
Ripe Market brings its weekend bazaar to City Walk's Indoor Courtyard every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 10pm. Founded in 2011 as a community-led initiative supporting homegrown UAE businesses, the market has adapted to seasonal conditions by moving indoors during warmer months. Visitors can explore locally produced food items, personal care products and clothing from regional artisans. Entry is free.
Pizza-making workshop for children
Boardwalk at Dubai Creek Resort offers daily pizza-making sessions for young participants. The iconic restaurant, which has been part of Dubai Creek Yacht Club for approximately three decades, provides children with homemade pizza bases and a selection of toppings including chicken chorizo, veal ham, mushrooms, peppers, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. The culinary team cooks the finished creations in wood-fired ovens. The Dh75 workshop includes ice cream and soft beverages.
Salsa and bachata dance instruction
Lucky Voice at Grand Millennium Hotel introduces complimentary Latin dance classes every Thursday evening from 7pm to 9pm. The international karaoke venue, which has operated since 2005 with locations in London, Brighton and Dubai, partners with Dubai-based dance community Project Baila for the sessions. No prior experience or dance partner is required for participation.
Mediterranean-Latin brunch experience
ZEA Dubai at Emirates Financial Tower in DIFC presents MESTIZOS, a Sunday brunch featuring sharing-style plates that blend Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines. The experience includes complimentary beverages and runs from 3pm to 7pm. Pricing begins at Dh265 per person.
Cinema release: Mirzapur adaptation
Mirzapur: The Movie releases September 4, bringing the popular series to cinemas. The Excel Entertainment and Amazon MGM Studios production runs 3 hours and 17 minutes and carries an adult rating. Set in 2018 as a prequel occurring between Episodes 6 and 7 of Season 1, the film follows the power struggles in the titular city. The timeline placement makes it accessible to viewers unfamiliar with all three series seasons, while offering additional context for established fans.
Wellness treatments at Samana Spa
Samana Spa at Meliá Desert Palm partners with Miracles for two 90-minute wellness experiences. The Release & Restore package combines 45 minutes of massage with 45 minutes of Reiki healing. The Wind-Down Ritual offers 45 minutes of sleep massage followed by 45 minutes of hypnotherapy. Both treatments are priced at Dh980.
