Happy Monday, Dubai!
The city is heading into another high-energy winter week - with major transport announcements reshaping how we move, festive dining experiences rolling out across top venues, headline restaurant openings landing Downtown and DIFC, and live shows filling theatres and arenas.
From infrastructure updates that will impact daily commutes to limited-time performances and immersive dining experiences worth booking ahead, this week captures Dubai in full seasonal stride.
Here’s everything big landing in the city over the next few days.
Top News To Look At Today
Dubai Metro Blue Line route unveiled – a major expansion for the city
Dubai’s public transport network is set to expand significantly after the RTA officially unveiled the Dubai Metro Blue Line route map, marking one of the biggest metro developments in recent years. The new line is designed to improve connectivity between fast-growing residential areas and key commercial districts across the city.
The expansion supports Dubai’s long-term urban planning goals, easing road congestion while offering residents faster, more reliable commuting options as the city continues to grow.
Why this matters for the week:
Expands metro access to emerging residential communities
Reduces congestion on major road corridors
Improves daily commute efficiency for thousands of residents
Boosts long-term property value along the route
Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street upgrades announced
Dubai authorities have announced a major infrastructure improvement plan for Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street, one of the city’s key arterial corridors connecting residential and commercial zones.
The project focuses on improving traffic flow, increasing road capacity, and enhancing pedestrian safety. Once completed, the upgrades are expected to significantly reduce peak-hour congestion and improve travel times.
Why this matters for the week:
Road widening to ease traffic bottlenecks
Improved intersections for smoother vehicle flow
Enhanced pedestrian safety features
Better daily commute experience for nearby communities
UAE confirms New Year’s Day holiday for private sector employees
The UAE has officially confirmed January 1 as a public holiday for private sector employees, giving residents a midweek break to start the new year.
The announcement helps businesses and residents plan travel, celebrations, and staycations in advance, especially as Dubai enters its peak winter season.
Why this matters for the week:
Confirms nationwide time off for private sector workers
Supports holiday planning and winter travel
Boosts local tourism and seasonal activities
Cybèle by Wadan launches, redefining contemporary living
A new residential development, Cybèle by Wadan, has officially launched in Dubai, offering a modern approach to urban living through contemporary architecture and lifestyle-focused amenities.
The project reflects a growing shift in Dubai’s real estate market toward design-led, community-oriented developments aimed at long-term residents and investors.
Why this matters for the week:
Signals continued momentum in Dubai’s property market
Highlights demand for lifestyle-driven residential projects
Appeals to both end-users and long-term investors
Dubai’s top destinations unveil festive menus and holiday experiences
Dubai’s dining and hospitality scene is in full festive mode, with venues across the city rolling out limited-edition menus, seasonal dining experiences, and holiday celebrations throughout December.
From Christmas dinners and festive brunches to immersive dining concepts and winter pop-ups, the city’s top destinations are offering a wide range of experiences for residents and visitors.
Why this matters for the week:
Limited-time festive menus now live across Dubai
Seasonal dining experiences available for December only
High demand expected — advance bookings recommended
MAJOR EVENTS THIS WEEK IN DUBAI
🎶 CONCERTS & LIVE MUSIC
Himesh Reshammiya – Cap Mania Tour
Bollywood hitmaker Himesh Reshammiya returns to Dubai as part of his Cap Mania Tour, bringing a live concert experience filled with chart-topping hits, throwback favourites, and crowd-pleasing anthems. Known for his unmistakable voice and nostalgic appeal, Himesh’s shows often turn into large-scale singalong events, drawing fans across generations.
📅 Saturday, December 20, 2025
📍 Dubai
👉 Get tickets for Himesh Reshammiya Live
Why go: A full-scale Bollywood concert packed with nostalgia, energy, and fan-favourite hits.
Bohemia Presents: Fabrice, Diosa, Jixo & Danz Cattaree
Bohemia returns this week with a curated electronic music showcase featuring Fabrice, Diosa, Jixo, and Danz Cattaree. Known for programming that leans toward underground and musically driven sets, Bohemia events attract a crowd that prioritises sound quality, atmosphere, and extended DJ performances over mainstream club formats.
📅 Saturday, December 20, 2025
📍 Dubai
👉 Find out more about Bohemia Presents
Why go: A refined electronic music night with a strong underground identity.
🥊 SPORTS & LIVE ACTION
Misfits Boxing: The Fight Before Christmas
Misfits Boxing returns to Dubai with one of its most anticipated editions yet. Blending professional boxing with internet celebrity culture, the event features crossover fighters, high-profile personalities, and bouts designed to entertain both hardcore fans and casual viewers.
📅 Saturday, December 20, 2025
📍 Dubai
👉 Get tickets for Misfits Boxing
Why go: A high-adrenaline sports spectacle with massive online and global buzz.
🎭 THEATRE & LIVE SHOWS
Dream Dinner Show – Theatre Meets Fine Dining
One of Dubai’s most talked-about immersive experiences, the Dream Dinner Show blends fine dining with live performances, choreography, acrobatics, and theatrical storytelling. Guests enjoy a multi-course meal while performers move through the space, creating a seamless fusion of entertainment and cuisine.
📅 Sunday, December 14, 2025 – Tuesday, February 11, 2026
📍 Dream Dinner Show Dubai
👉 Discover Dream Dinner Show
Why go: A premium dining-and-entertainment experience that feels unlike anything else in the city.
Cinderella: The Magical Pantomime Fairytale
This festive pantomime brings the classic Cinderella story to life with colourful sets, playful performances, music, and interactive moments designed especially for children. A holiday-season favourite, the show offers families an easy theatre option that feels celebratory without being overwhelming.
📅 Wednesday, December 17 – Monday, December 29, 2025
📍 The Jumeirah Beach Hotel Theatre
👉 Get tickets for Cinderella
Why go: A family-friendly holiday show perfect for kids and visiting relatives.
Leffi Bina Ya Donya at Zabeel Theatre
A culturally rooted theatrical production, Leffi Bina Ya Donya blends humour, emotional storytelling, and regional narratives into a live performance staged at Zabeel Theatre. The show resonates strongly with audiences looking for Arabic-language theatre with depth and relatability.
📅 Wednesday, December 17 – Thursday, December 18, 2025
📍 Zabeel Theatre
👉 Find out more about Leffi Bina Ya Donya
Why go: A thoughtful cultural performance with strong storytelling elements.
Emerald Isle: Irish Dance Reborn
Emerald Isle reimagines traditional Irish dance through modern choreography, theatrical staging, and high-energy group performances. The production offers a visually striking experience that appeals to audiences of all ages.
📅 Sun 21 Dec - Tue 23 Dec
📍 Dubai
👉 Discover Emerald Isle
Why go: A dynamic dance show that blends tradition with modern performance.
QE2 Christmas Carol Concert – Feel the Christmas Spirit
Step aboard the iconic QE2 for a festive evening of classic Christmas carols performed in a truly unique setting. The concert combines seasonal music with maritime nostalgia, making it a popular pick during December.
📅 Wednesday, December 17, 2025
📍 QE2, Dubai
👉 Get tickets for the QE2 Christmas Carol Concert
Why go: A cosy, festive concert in one of Dubai’s most iconic venues.
🌙 NIGHTLIFE & PARTIES
JET LAG at Cavo
The internationally recognised JET LAG party concept lands at Cavo with high-energy DJ sets, immersive lighting, and a packed dancefloor atmosphere. Known for its fast-paced music and global crowd, this event is designed for those who want peak-weekend energy on a weeknight.
📅 Every Tuesday: December 16 & December 30, 2025
📍 Cavo, Dubai
👉 Get tickets for JET LAG at Cavo
Why go: A high-intensity nightlife experience with international party vibes.
Ladies’ Night at Malibu Sky Lounge
Malibu Sky Lounge offers a relaxed midweek ladies’ night with skyline views, drinks, and an easygoing social atmosphere. Ideal for casual catch-ups without the pressure of a full club night.
📅 Every Wednesday until December 17, 2025
📍 Malibu Sky Lounge
👉 See details for Ladies’ Night at Malibu
Why go: A scenic, low-effort option for midweek plans.
❄️ FAMILY & SEASONAL EVENTS
Winter City
Winter City continues to attract families with festive installations, seasonal activities, and winter-themed entertainment designed for all age groups. An easy option for daytime or early evening plans during December.
📅 Sunday, December 14 – Wednesday, December 31, 2025
📍 Dubai
👉 Discover Winter City
Why go: A festive, family-friendly outing without heavy planning.
DOORS at Dubai Mall – Seasonal Dining & Entertainment
DOORS at Dubai Mall leans into the festive season with winter-exclusive menus, premium dining, and waterfront entertainment, making it a strong option for holiday meet-ups and evening plans.
📅 Ongoing throughout December
📍 Dubai Mall Waterfront
👉 Explore DOORS Dubai Mall experiences
Why go: Seasonal dining paired with prime views in one of Dubai’s busiest locations.
FREE EVENTS IN DUBAI THIS WEEK
Major happenings you can enjoy with no ticket required
1. Dubai Winter City - Free Access Zones
Dates: All week
📍 Expo City Dubai
👉 Explore Winter City
Entry to the outdoor Winter City grounds, festive décor, live performances, and open-access walk-through areas is free. (Activities, workshops & rides are paid, but the main village itself can be entered at no cost.)
Why go: One of the largest festive activations in Dubai with snow zones, stage shows, and open-air markets.
2. Leffi Bina Ya Donya – Public Cultural Theatre Moments (Zabeel Theatre)
Dates: Wed 17 Dec - Thu 18 Dec
📍 Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
👉 Event link
The ticketed theatre show is paid, but the outdoor cultural activation, character walkarounds, and themed photo opportunities in the Zabeel Saray public foyer are free for walk-ins during show hours.
Why go: A great mid-week cultural ambience without needing show tickets.
☀️ Weather This Week
Dubai’s weather this week is expected to be unsettled and variable, with conditions shifting from clear winter sunshine to intermittent clouds and periods of rain or showers as the week progresses - a rare change for December and a result of shifting pressure systems across the UAE.
Highlights for this week:
Early week conditions will be pleasant but changing, with warm daytime highs near typical December averages.
Rain and unstable weather are likely between Tuesday and Friday, including scattered showers, possible thunderstorms, and gusty winds.
Nights will be mild to cool, typical of December, though moisture and cloud cover may keep temperatures a few degrees higher than usual.
That’s your guide to what’s lighting up Dubai this week - from headline concerts and live shows to festive markets, nightlife, and family-friendly plans. With winter in full swing and the city’s calendar filling fast, now’s the time to lock in what you want to see, book ahead where needed, and make the most of the season.
We’ll be back midweek with the Weekend Guide, breaking down what to book, where to eat, and which events are worth prioritizing. Until then, enjoy the week ahead, and we’ll see you around the city.
— Matthias
