Weekends in the UAE always land with energy, but late November sits in a sweet spot. The weather softens, the beaches cool, and the city’s social calendar picks up pace. For anyone searching for things to do this weekend in the UAE, the plans range from high-craft experiences and aviation spectacles to low-key mornings on the sand. Whether staying in Dubai or heading to Abu Dhabi, here are the weekend’s standout picks.
Dubai Watch Week – craftsmanship you can hear
Dubai Watch Week remains one of the city’s most polished highlights. It’s not just a showcase of luxury watches; it feels like a peek into a world where precision still matters.
Visitors move between quiet booths where the ticking of mechanical movements is louder than conversation. Watchmakers demonstrate tiny adjustments under magnifiers, explaining complications as if guiding you through a secret language.
This is a calm plan for those who enjoy craftsmanship, design and the feeling of touching something that takes time and patience to create. It’s immersive, niche, and more personal than most luxury events.
Dubai Airshow weekends – loud skies and aviation buzz
Even if the main event is focused on trade and aerospace professionals, the airshow fills the skyline all weekend. Expect powerful flypasts, futuristic aircraft displays, and on-ground activations that are especially exciting for families and aircraft enthusiasts.
It’s the kind of plan that comes with a rumble in the chest and lots of wide-eyed moments from kids. With blue sky above and that unmistakable jet roar, it brings a big-city edge to the weekend.
Michelin Guide Food Festival – Abu Dhabi goes gourmet
For food lovers, Abu Dhabi has the standout event of the week. Celebrity chefs, top-ranked restaurants and curated tasting sessions come together in one venue.
Imagine strolling past open kitchens, hearing the sizzle of butter on pans, the aroma of saffron drifting from plated dishes, the hum of diners comparing notes on the perfect bite.
It’s experiential, social and absolutely one of the most flavour-driven ways to spend a weekend evening. Book early — popular masterclasses and tasting sessions tend to fill up quickly.
Mansour Festival – Yas Island family-friendly fun
Families searching for relaxed weekend plans can head to Yas Island’s Mansour Festival. It blends carnival rides, casual food stalls and performances rooted in local culture.
Kids get the thrill of lights, games and movement; adults can explore small craft vendors, try traditional snacks and enjoy live entertainment without rush or fuss.
It’s easy, spacious and cheerful — ideal if you want something friendly, casual and suitable for mixed age groups.
Outdoor fitness events – move before brunch
Fitness pop-ups and outdoor competitions are common this time of year, and they bring lively energy to weekend mornings. Competitors race through short timed challenges, spectators cheer from benches and sidelines, and the post-event rush usually leads straight to breakfast.
It’s one of the most social ways to work out — a quick shot of endorphins before the rest of the day unfolds.
Cultural evenings – art, light and quiet
Not every weekend has to be loud or fast. If the mood is slower, museum evenings and gallery visits offer calm without feeling boring.
Light installations glow against city backdrops, exhibitions open with small gatherings, and strolling into a dinner reservation after a peaceful hour of culture feels effortless and grown-up.
It’s the perfect reset if the week has been long and your weekend needs stillness instead of spectacle.
Tryano’s 10th Anniversary Takeover – a feel-good retail celebration in Abu Dhabi
Yas Mall is getting a full takeover this weekend as Tryano turns ten, and the department store is marking the milestone with the kind of in-store experience that feels more like a pop-up festival than retail therapy.
From 21 to 23 November, between 6pm and 9pm, the space transforms into a series of creative stations. Think a live DJ setting the mood, a photobooth ready for your next profile picture, a charm-making bar for gifting, and a matcha counter to keep energy levels high.
There are thoughtful, unexpected touches too — an oyster engraving corner and a heat-press personalisation station where visitors can create their own tote bag. It’s playful, interactive and ideal for groups, families or anyone wanting something that feels “only in Abu Dhabi” without spending a dirham on entry.
Stretch, Strengthen & Sip at Mall of the Emirates – morning movement with Joe & The Juice
For an early start that feels purposeful without being punishing, Joe & The Juice and Gray Wellness Club are bringing a community Pilates session to Mall of the Emirates on 22 November at 7am.
Held next to the café space, the 45-minute class focuses on mindful movement — a mix of stretching, strengthening and controlled breathing — and welcomes every fitness level. It’s hosted as part of Dubai Fitness Challenge, and the atmosphere leans more toward encouragement than competition.
After the session, guests can refuel with complimentary drinks from Joe & The Juice — juices, coffees and shakes that feel well-earned after a sunrise workout. It’s limited to the first 30 sign-ups, so booking ahead is smart if you want to start your weekend grounded, calm and energised.
Learn to Fold Dim Sum Like a Chef – The Noodle House Masterclass
For food fans who like rolling up their sleeves and learning something hands-on, The Noodle House is hosting its dim sum masterclass this weekend on 22 November at its JBR restaurant.
Guests are guided through the art of shaping dumplings — from filling selection to traditional folding techniques — with direct coaching from the culinary team. It’s relaxed, fun and surprisingly meditative, especially once you find a rhythm in the folds.
Every participant is welcomed with iced tea and later served a basket of assorted dim sum as a light lunch. The session ends with a takeaway kit including a branded apron, tote bag and the famously well-loved Noodle House pen. It’s casual, tactile and perfect for solo foodies, couples or small groups looking to do something different before the beach or lunch.
The Weekend in a Sentence
Whatever your style — beach towel, watchmaker’s loupe, festival pass, or tasting fork — this weekend has space for it somewhere between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Read More:
- Dubai’s Best Christmas Brunches & Dinners around the city – Social Kandura
- Where to Watch UAE National Day Fireworks: 10 Stunning Spots Across The Emirates – Social Kandura
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