Dubai never plays it safe. With its ever-changing landscape of entertainment, dining, nightlife, and adventure, the city thrives on surprises. Whether you’re a local thrill-seeker or a visitor chasing unique experiences, Dubai’s weekly line-up is anything but boring. If you think you’ve done it all, think again—this week’s agenda delivers bold, offbeat picks to ignite your social calendar.
While everyone’s chasing the typical tourist trails, insiders know that the real excitement lies just beneath the surface. At Off the Record, we cut through the noise to spotlight the underground, unexpected, and wildly Fun things to do in dubai that others overlook. From desert cinema nights to rooftop raves, we’ve scouted experiences that bring a fresh pulse to your week.
1. Sunset Kayaking at Hatta Dam
Start your week by escaping the city for Hatta’s serene waters. Paddle your way across turquoise landscapes surrounded by rugged mountains. Kayaking at sunset here feels like a mini-retreat, especially midweek. Don’t forget to snap a few shots—the reflections are unreal, and the vibe is pure calm.
2. Tuesday Nights at Honeycomb Hi-Fi
Tucked away in the Pullman Downtown, Honeycomb Hi-Fi is more than a vinyl bar—it’s an immersive listening experience. The curated playlists and analog sound make it ideal for audiophiles and culture lovers. Tuesdays feature local DJs playing everything from soul to deep house, paired with Japanese bites and a moody Tokyo-inspired interior.
3. Rooftop Roller Disco at Soho Garden
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Soho Garden is turning their rooftop into a neon-lit roller rink this Thursday. Think disco balls, retro beats, and skating under the stars. It’s nostalgic, ridiculous, and insanely fun. Bring your own skates or rent on-site, then glide your way through one of the most quirky events of the week.
4. Secret Speakeasy Comedy Night in DIFC
Hidden behind a bookcase in DIFC, this speakeasy isn’t just about cocktails—it’s also hosting secret stand-up shows every Wednesday. Expect underground comedians, zero filters, and a no-phone policy that keeps things raw and unfiltered. It’s intimate, edgy, and wildly unpredictable.
5. Art Walk Midnight Gallery Crawl in Alserkal Avenue
Art lovers, set your calendars for Friday night. Alserkal Avenue comes alive after hours with open studios, pop-up installations, and late-night talks. Walk the district with a curated map, sip wine from local galleries, and discover new artists reshaping Dubai’s creative identity. The energy after dark is electric and draws a diverse, stylish crowd.
6. Glow-in-the-Dark Paddleboard Yoga at Palm Jumeirah
Yoga on a paddleboard? Been there. But glowing under a full moon while balancing on calm waters? That’s new. This unique session happens twice a month and combines balance, core strength, and starlit serenity. If you’re after something peaceful yet playful, this is the midweek breather you didn’t know you needed.
7. Desert Dune Dining with a Private Chef
Want dinner with a view—and no crowds? Book a private dune dining experience just 40 minutes outside the city. A luxury 4x4 whisks you into the desert, where a chef prepares a custom three-course meal under the stars. No fire shows. No camels. Just silence, sky, and really good food.
8. Immersive Theatre at The Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA)
The team at ToDA is taking storytelling to new heights with their rotating immersive shows. This week, step into a new dimension with interactive digital performances that blend motion sensors, VR, and live acting. It’s ideal for couples or friends looking for an out-of-the-box cultural fix.
9. Wednesday Beach Bonfires at Kite Beach
Simple but iconic—Dubai’s beach bonfires are back. Gather at Kite Beach on Wednesdays for music, marshmallows, and low-key vibes. Local musicians drop by with acoustic sets, and the crowd is always friendly. Bring a blanket and settle in for one of the city’s more relaxed yet heartwarming experiences.
10. Street Food Pop-Up at Time Out Market
Craving bites that aren’t Michelin-level serious? Time Out Market is rotating in new street food pop-ups this week, including Afro-Caribbean BBQ, Filipino street tacos, and Korean fried chicken with a twist. Come hungry. Leave with your hands messy and your taste buds satisfied.
11. Neon Forest Dance Party at Terra Solis
Every weekend, Terra Solis surprises partygoers with immersive themes, and this week’s is straight from an EDM fantasy. Picture a jungle bathed in UV light, dancers in tribal neon gear, and DJs spinning deep house until sunrise. You’ll forget you’re even in Dubai—until you see the skyline on your way home.
12. Off the Record's Wild Card Pick: The Lost Chambers After Dark
Ever explored an aquarium at midnight with a jazz saxophonist setting the mood? Atlantis opens its doors after hours for a surreal underwater experience. Walk through glowing tunnels, sip signature cocktails, and vibe to live music as sharks swim by. It's like a dream—and one few know about.
Why These Picks Matter
Dubai’s reputation for grandeur often overshadows its creative underground. The real scene thrives in rooftops, speakeasies, art alleys, and quiet dunes. These are the spaces where locals go to unwind, connect, and celebrate the city’s evolving spirit.
By venturing beyond the tourist traps, you discover a different Dubai—one filled with energy, edge, and authenticity.
Tap into the Off the Record Flow
At Off the Record, we’re not here for the obvious. We scout the streets, scan the rooftops, and dive into Dubai’s subculture to bring you the city’s most unforgettable moments. Whether you want rooftop rhythms, bonfires on the beach, or avant-garde theatre, we’ve got you covered.
Our curated calendar is always changing. So, check in weekly and stay one step ahead of the mainstream. Because the best nights? They’re always the ones you didn’t see coming.
