The city buzz

Atif Aslam at Global Village

Global Village is set to light up, as beloved music icon Atif Aslam returns to the Main Stage for a soul-stirring live concert. From ‘Tera Hone Laga Hoon’ to ‘Tere Bin’, expect an unforgettable night of chart-toppers, crowd sing-alongs, and signature vocal magic. Introduced by presenters from City 1016, this third appearance by Aslam promises to be a showstopper. Concert access is included with a Global Village entry ticket.

When: April 27, 9pm onwards; Where: Main Stage, Global Village, Dubai; Contact: globalvillage.ae | App & on-site ticket counters

Ed Sheeran comes back!

Mark your calendars as the UAE’s first open-format music event, OFFLIMITS Festival, debuts at Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Expect genre-defying sets by global superstars including Ed Sheeran, OneRepublic, Kaiser Chiefs, Faithless, and more across immersive, futuristic stages designed by Beyoncé’s stage architect Florian Wieder. With over 20 acts and 40,000 festivalgoers expected, it’s the biggest music celebration in the Middle East this year.

When: April 26, Where: Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Contact: www.offlimitsfestival.com | info@offlimitsfestival.com

Women drive the future

Witness history in motion as the Arabian Gazelles Rally, the Middle East’s first all-women supercar rally, hits the roads of the UAE. This four-day journey starts at Dubai Autodrome and winds through Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and back, blending speed, elegance, and empowerment. Expect scenic drives, luxury stays, cultural immersion, and curated experiences. With global participants and luxury partners like Chopard, this rally isn’t just about cars — it’s about leadership, legacy, and liberation.

When May 1 to 4; Where: Across UAE, starting in Dubai; Contact: www.arabiangazelles.com

Immersive beats at NYSA

Step into a multisensory world at NYSA by Zenon, the hidden lounge inside Zenon Restaurant, Address Dubai Mall. The genre-defying trio Arkadyan will headline an immersive night of electronic music, digital art, and Mediterranean-Asian fusion dining. The space comes alive with live DJ brainwave projections and a soundscape of Afro-Balkan beats, all set within an intimate, high-tech venue. With only 200 guests allowed, this exclusive event promises a cinematic night out.

When: April 25, from 7 pm till late; Where: Zenon, Address Dubai Mall; Contact: 0443 888 88 | reservations.centralavenue@kempinski.com

Level up at GameExpo

Gamers, rejoice! Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 is back with 17 days of epic action. The flagship GameExpo takes over Dubai World Trade Centre, featuring esports tournaments, cosplay showdowns, retro arcades, dance battles, and immersive tech zones. Meet gaming influencers like Abo Flah, join competitions, and win big with daily prizes. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore pro, this is the ultimate celebration of all things gaming.

When: April 25 to May 11; Where: DWTC, Zabeel Halls 2 & 3; Contact: Platinumlist.net | @DubaiFestivals on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn

Bark and brunch bash

INK Hotel is throwing a paw-some party for pets and their people. Expect an all-you-can-eat brunch for humans, gourmet treats for pups, on-site pet grooming, and tips from a pet nutritionist. Hosted with Happy Bark Day, this dog-friendly event promises fun, food, and furry friends in a relaxed outdoor setting. Packages start at Dh99 for kids and Dh199 for adults. Extra pups welcome for Dh75.

When: April 26, from 12pm to 4pm; Where: INK Hotel, Al Jaddaf Waterfront; Contact: 04 457 3700 | info@inkhotel.com

Karrouhat hits Mama Shelter

Get ready for an electrifying night as Mama Records lands at Mama Shelter Dubai. Headlined by Karrouhat—known for his genre-bending sets and stage presence—this night promises deep beats and feel-good chaos. The party kicks off with live vocals by @brufave and DJ @lehash before Karrouhat takes over. The vibe continues at Mama’s speakeasy-style bar for those who want to keep the energy high.

When: April 26, from 7pm till late; Where: Mama Shelter, Al Asayel Street, Business Bay, Dubai; Contact: dubai@mamashelter.com | mamashelter.com/dubai

Culture and beats collide

Abu Dhabi wraps up April with two unmissable events. BRED Abu Dhabi takes over Yas Marina Circuit with hip-hop stars like Nas and PARTYNEXTDOOR, exclusive streetwear drops, dance-offs, and more in a high-energy celebration of street culture. Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Festival continues across various venues, showcasing world-class performances from leading orchestras, pianists, and ballet troupes under the theme A World of Harmony, in honour of UAE–Japan friendship.

When: April 25–27; Where: Yas Marina Circuit & multiple venues, Abu Dhabi; Contact: visitabudhabi.ae

Art in motion extended

Don’t miss your chance to experience Marcos Marín’s hypnotic world of optical and kinetic art as ME by Meliá Dubai extends its Cultural Connection exhibition. Showcasing over 60 striking works that blend light, movement, and identity, the exhibition transforms Zaha Hadid’s architecturally iconic hotel into a dynamic gallery space. From portraits of cultural icons to mind-bending illusions, each piece invites a fresh perspective with every glance. A must-visit for art lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

When: April 30; Where: ME by Meliá, Business Bay, Dubai; Contact: 04 525 2500 | melia.com

Late nights at Bâoli

Experience high-octane nightlife at Bâoli Dubai, J1 Beach, as global DJs take the stage. Kicking off the late-night lineup is Sylvain Armand (April 25), followed by Afro-house sensation Themba (May 2), French deep house talent Nicolas Monier (May 9), and the hypnotic trio Tripolism (May 16). Each performance runs from Midnight to 2 AM, blending sound, setting, and sophistication in one of Dubai’s most stylish venues. Don’t miss this series of unforgettable nights under the stars.

When: Starting April 25; Where: Bâoli Dubai, J1 Beach; Contact: 04 491 5500 | baoli-restaurant.com

Michael Bibi returns live

Dubai’s nightlife reaches new heights as global electronic icon Michael Bibi returns to the Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience, joined by Afro-house star Ahmed Spins. Expect deep, hypnotic beats, groundbreaking visuals, and the signature high-octane Ushuaïa energy under the city skyline. With past performances at Coachella and Glastonbury, Bibi’s comeback is a must-see moment in the region’s music scene. Brought to life by The Night League and Studio A, this is one unforgettable night not to miss.

When: April 26; Where: Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience; Contact: ushuaiadubai.com

Race into LEGO fun

LEGOLAND Dubai shifts into high gear with Build the Thrill, a high-energy, Formula 1-themed event for kids and families. Young racers can design LEGO cars, tackle pit-lane challenges, dance at team parties, and battle for podium glory. With daily activities throughout April and weekend excitement in May, enjoy themed shows, workshops, scavenger hunts, and a victory stage finale. Extend the fun at LEGOLAND Hotel with exclusive dining and creative trophy-building sessions.

When: Until May 31; Where: LEGOLAND Dubai, Dubai Parks & Resorts; Contact: 04 820 3123 | LEGOLAND.ae

LIFE takes the stage

Step into a world of spectacle and soul at The Theater Dubai with LIFE, – A Theatrical Journey Through Existence, an immersive dinner show. Led by musical maestro Guy Manoukian and the magnetic Maria Khomenko, this sensory production blends live music, stunning choreography, and striking visuals to explore the emotional highs and lows of life. Pair the performance with a gourmet dinner and signature drinks for an unforgettable night of drama and indulgence.

When: Ongoing, from 8pm; Where: The Theater, Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road; Contact: 04 222 2268

Art meets the table

This April, Duck & Waffle partners with Firetti Contemporary to present Beyond the Palette, a striking fusion of food and fine art in the heart of DIFC. Running through the month, the exhibition features evocative works by Paolo Nicolai, Rachel K, and Helidon Xhixha, each paired with bespoke cocktails that echo the themes of their art. From bold sculpture to nostalgic forms and reflective steel, the restaurant becomes a gallery where every sip and sculpture tells a story.

When: Starting from April 29, 2025; Where: Duck & Waffle, DIFC, Contact: 04 542 1421; duckandwaffle.com

Sky-high sip & paint

Elevate your Sunday plans at Alto 54’s Sip & Paint. Held on the 54th floor of Address Sky View, this creative afternoon pairs skyline views with a guided painting session, complete with all materials and Bombay Sapphire cocktails, for just AED 150 per person. Whether you’re an art pro or just looking for a fun, relaxing escape, expect great vibes and a masterpiece to take home.

When: April 27, 2025, from 3pm onwards; Where: Alto 54, Address Sky View, Dubai; Contact: 058 531 8470

Last call for Moonlight

Catch the magic of VOX MOONLIGHT at Galleria Mall Dubai. Watch the latest blockbusters like Thunderbolts and The Accountant 2 under the stars with Dolby 7.1 Surround sound and stunning skyline views. Choose from Private Cabanas, Loungers, Couches, or Bean Bags, and enjoy gourmet cinema snacks delivered straight to your seat. Family sessions are available on weekends for the ultimate movie night under the sky.

When: Daily until 4 May 2025; Where: Galleria Mall, Al Wasl Road, Dubai; Contact: uae.voxcinemas.com

BMW thrills on track

Feel the adrenaline at the BMW M Track Experience. Organised by AGMC, this ultimate driving event lets you command powerhouse models like the BMW M2, M4, M5, and XM across a legendary track. Each participant gets a two-hour session to unleash the full force of BMW M precision, plus access to an exclusive M model display. Open to the public (21+ with valid license). Advance registration required.

When: April 26 and 27, 2025; Where: Dubai Autodrome; Contact: bmwm-track-experience.platinumlist.net

Brew skills with Hoof

Calling all coffee lovers! Hoof Café is hosting a series of free, hands-on coffee workshops across Dubai and Sharjah. From perfecting an espresso shot to learning barista basics, coffee cupping, and joining a brewers’ challenge, these sessions are designed for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Led by Hoof’s expert team, each event promises interactive learning, friendly competitions, and exciting giveaways. Advance sign-up required, limited spots available.

When: Until June 21, 2025; Where: Hoof locations across Dubai and Sharjah; Contact: @hoof.cafe | In-store registration

Master your inner voice

Join mindset mentor Shaheen Abbas for Mind Over Chatter, a transformative 90-minute virtual workshop. Rooted in real-life experience and psychological insight, the session explores Choices, Change, and Confidence — equipping participants with tools to quiet mental noise, overcome self-doubt, and reconnect with their authentic self. Designed for those seeking clarity and resilience, this interactive experience offers reflection, micro-activities, and mindset shifts in a supportive space.

Where: Online (Virtual Workshop); When: May 2, 2025, from 3pm to 5pm; Contact: DM @shaheenabbas on Instagram or WhatsApp +91 83568 81477 to register