May’s heating up—and not just the forecast. From late-night sets on the sand to matcha drops, beauty pop-ups, and low-key brunches, this month’s lineup is stacked. Whether you’re booking a staycay or just planning your next weekend detour, here’s what’s actually worth doing across the city.
A Beauty Pop-up with Masterclasses
City Centre Mirdif’s Glam Hotel pop-up is live from May 2–11, turning an empty unit into a full-on beauty experience. Shoppers who spend Dhs100 can access the Glam Arcade, with DIY lipstick and fragrance stations, beauty claw machines, and a photo booth. The space also hosts free evening masterclasses with regional pros: Dina Al Sharif (May 2), Diana Samman (May 3), Nojoud Al Rumaihi (May 4), Noha Nabil (May 10), and Dalal Al Doub (May 11). Bonus: there’s a pink EL&N café inside for post-glam coffee and cake.
PAC-MAN Live Studio–Opening May 7, Al Quoz
Ready to run like it’s 1980? PAC-MAN Live Studio opens in Al Quoz on May 7, transforming the iconic arcade game into a full-scale, real-life maze. Brought to you by the creators of Chaos Karts, the 30-minute adventure features neon visuals, AR tech, and digital ghosts—perfect for groups, gamers, and anyone craving a nostalgia-fueled thrill. Tickets start at Dhs160 via Fever.
L’ÉCOLE Middle East New Courses & Talks
L’ÉCOLE Middle East, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, is launching a new series of public jewelry courses and talks this May. Highlights include hands-on adult classes like Design to Mock-Up and The Power of Jewelry, plus a kids’ workshop to design rings. Don’t miss the online talk on May 13 (Renaissance Jewelry) and the in-person session on May 14 exploring Talismans and Lucky Charms. All proceeds support Dubai Cares.
Summer Wellness & Stay Offers at Raffles Dubai
Raffles Dubai is leaning into summer with two standout suite offers and a wellness lineup that combines indulgence with intention. Book 4 nights in a Presidential or Royal Suite and pay for 3, with perks like butler service, spa discounts, and club lounge access. Or go for 25% off luxe suites with Dhs 400 daily dining credit. Spa treatments range from Vitamin C facials to Arabian-inspired sound healing, plus a monthly Summer Wellness Pass for gym, pool, and spa access.
Wednesdays at La Baia, J1 Beach
La Baia is giving midweek energy a full upgrade with its new Ladies’ Day experience every Wednesday. Start the morning at 8am with a beachfront wellness session by Hippie Who Hustles—think yoga, meditation, journaling, and breakfast (Dhs250 with pool and beach access). From noon, it’s straight into a chic pool party with live DJ sets, entertainment, and free-flowing drinks (Dhs200). Serenity to sun-soaked celebration, all in one day.
Zamna at Ushuaïa Dubai–May 9
Zamna is bringing its signature Tulum-born electronic energy to Dubai Harbour for one night only on May 9. Expect a full-sensory experience featuring global heavyweights like Ben Böhmer (Live), Agents of Time, AMÉMÉ, Joezi, and the Zamna Soundsystem. With deep, tribal beats and lush production, this waterfront takeover promises to be one of the month’s most immersive music nights.
Saturdays at Be Beach–Weekly DJ Series
Be Beach is turning Saturdays into a coastal club night with a stacked DJ lineup all month long. Kicking off May 3 with Moblack’s Afro House energy, each weekend sees a new headliner: Damian Lazarus (May 10), Kölsch (May 17), Birds of Mind (May 24), and Dennis Cruz (May 31). Sand, sound, and skyline views—it’s open-air, late-night, and pure groove. Entry starts at Dhs100 (ladies) and Dhs200 (gents).
Catch Cubache Band Live at SAMBAROOM–May 14
SUSHISAMBA is turning up the heat on May 14 with a one-night-only performance by Cubache Band inside SAMBAROOM, the Palm’s highest sky lounge. Expect a fiery night of Afro-Cuban son, Latin soul, and Buena Vista Social Club classics—paired with panoramic views and tropical cocktails from the new Fruteria do Brasil menu. From live music to VIP bottle service, it’s all set for a bold midweek escape.
A Luxe Brunch at FLØR
Brunch at FLØR is a quieter kind of luxury—intimate, elegant, and full of thoughtful details. Held every weekend from 12–4 PM, it serves a refined European menu in a 50-seat space tucked inside The Ritz-Carlton DIFC. Expect black truffle scrambled eggs, king crab Benedict, and shrimp patties with curry sauce, paired with natural wines, Bellinis, and Rossinis for a perfectly slow weekend start.
Slow Down at Sohum
If your calendar’s been doing too much lately, Sohum Wellness Sanctuary in Al Quoz is worth carving out time for. Founded by Tanya Mansotra, it’s a stripped-back, peaceful space offering Ayurvedic therapies, breathwork, sound healing, and massages from around the world. Expect a sauna, cold plunge, yoga classes, and zero pressure to rush. It’s calm, on purpose. Book ahead.
