Ripe Market is returning to Dubai Police Academy Park on October 10, 2026, for its 15th season. The weekend market will run every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 9pm until May 2, 2027, bringing together UAE-based farmers, independent makers, food operators and family activities. The extended Sunday hours give visitors a full weekend evening to shop, eat and enjoy entertainment.
- Location: Academy Park, Dubai Police Academy, Sheikh Zayed Road
- Organiser: Ripe Events
- Opening: October 10, 2026
- Timings: Saturday and Sunday, 9am to 9pm
- Who can visit: Residents, families, visitors and shoppers
- Business impact: A platform for UAE farmers, independent makers and homegrown brands
- What’s next: Weekend markets, family activities, wellness sessions and anniversary events until May 2, 2027
Ripe Market Dubai is returning to Academy Park on October 10, 2026, with its 15th season bringing back one of the city’s popular weekend outdoor markets. Ripe Events has confirmed that the market will operate every Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 9 pm until May 2, 2027.
The new season will bring together local farmers, independent makers, UAE-based brands, food operators and family entertainment. For Dubai residents, the return also signals the start of another outdoor market season as temperatures become more suitable for spending time outside.
When is Ripe Market Dubai reopening?
Ripe Market will reopen at Dubai Police Academy Park on Saturday, October 10, 2026, according to Ripe Events.
The market will operate every Saturday and Sunday through May 2, 2027. Both weekend days will run from 9am to 9pm, meaning Sunday visitors will have the same 12-hour window as Saturday visitors.
The market’s seven-month schedule covers much of Dubai’s outdoor season, giving local businesses a recurring weekend platform rather than a short-term event.
Ripe Market first launched in 2011 and has since become a regular part of Dubai’s seasonal lifestyle calendar. Ripe Events was established separately in 2013, so the 2026–27 programme marks 15 years of The Ripe Market rather than 15 years of the Ripe Events company.
What can visitors expect at Ripe Market this season?
The market will combine shopping, food, entertainment and activities in one outdoor setting.
Visitors can expect stalls selling fresh produce, artisan goods and products from UAE-based businesses. The food offering will cover breakfast, coffee, street food, desserts and family dining, with operators changing throughout the season.
Ripe Events has also confirmed a range of activities for children and families. These include a petting zoo, pony rides, arts and crafts, inflatables, sports activities, a mini train and carousel.
Live entertainment will also feature across the season, with music, themed performances and magic shows forming part of the weekend programme.
The schedule will not remain identical every weekend. Ripe Events says vendors, activities and entertainment will rotate, giving visitors different experiences throughout the October-to-May season.
What will Dubai Police add to the Ripe Market experience?
One of the additions worth watching this season is the partnership with Dubai Police at Academy Park.
According to Ripe Events, Dubai Police will run changing community activations during the season. These are expected to include performances by the Dubai Police Marching Band, K9 demonstrations, police supercar displays and activities for children.
Characters including Officer Amna and Captain Mansour are also expected to feature in the programme.
The activations add another family-focused element to the market while giving visitors a closer look at some of Dubai Police’s community initiatives.
Will Ripe Market have wellness and sports activities?
Yes. The 2026–27 season will include a selection of free wellness sessions alongside shopping and food.
Ripe Events has listed yoga, Pilates, sound healing and mindfulness workshops among the planned activities.
Sports will also form part of the programme, with activities including swimming, padel, tennis, horse riding, football, rugby and gymnastics.
The mix means the market is positioned as more than a place to shop for local products. Visitors can spend several hours at the venue, moving between food stalls, retail stands, entertainment, wellness sessions and family activities.
How does Ripe Market support Dubai’s local businesses?
Ripe Market has long focused on giving smaller UAE businesses a direct connection with customers.
The market brings together farmers, independent makers, food concepts and homegrown brands in a recurring weekend setting. For smaller operators, this provides an opportunity to meet customers in person, test products and build awareness outside traditional retail spaces.
The vendor mix will include returning businesses as well as new UAE-based operators during the 2026–27 season.
Ripe Events also runs smaller market formats at locations including City Walk, Times Square Centre and Zabeel House The Greens, extending the concept beyond its main Academy Park venue.
Why It Matters
The return of Ripe Market gives Dubai residents another regular outdoor option for weekends during the cooler months.
It also matters for the local businesses taking part. Farmers, food operators, artisans and independent brands can use the market to reach residents and visitors without relying only on permanent retail locations.
For families, the combination of food, shopping, children’s activities, sports and entertainment makes Academy Park a flexible weekend destination. The extended Sunday hours also give visitors more time to attend after other weekend plans.
With the market running until May 2, 2027, the season will cover Dubai’s main outdoor period and include anniversary programming as Ripe Market marks 15 years.
FAQs
When does Ripe Market Dubai open in 2026?
Ripe Market will reopen on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Academy Park at Dubai Police Academy.
What are the Ripe Market Dubai timings?
Ripe Market will be open 9 am to 9 pm every Saturday and Sunday during the 2026–27 season.
Where is Ripe Market held in Dubai?
The flagship Ripe Market will take place at Academy Park, Dubai Police Academy, on Sheikh Zayed Road in Umm Suqeim.
How long will Ripe Market run?
The 2026–27 season will run from October 10, 2026, until May 2, 2027, with the market operating every Saturday and Sunday.
What can families do at Ripe Market?
Families can find activities including a petting zoo, pony rides, arts and crafts, inflatables, a mini train, carousel, sports and live entertainment. Wellness activities such as yoga and Pilates will also be available during selected weekends.
Ripe Market’s return on October 10 will mark the beginning of its 15th season at Academy Park. With weekend opening hours until 9 pm, local brands, food operators, farmers, family activities, wellness sessions and Dubai Police activations, the market is set to become a regular outdoor destination through May 2027.
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