What To See, Watch & Do In The Region

Running from 2nd–12th October, the Dubai Comedy Festival returns with 11 days of stand-up, sketches and satire across the city. Showcasing over 50 performances in English, Arabic, French, German, Hindi, Urdu and Russian, the festival celebrates humour in all its cultural diversity. Highlights include global stars such as Mo Amer, alongside regional favourites like John Achkar, plus a host of international acts. From sharp wit and cultural storytelling to laugh-out-loud character comedy, there’s something for every comedy fan."

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Fans of Ottoman Hands’ eclectic jewellery will be pleased to know the brand is launching its first pop-up in Dubai this October. Running for three months at Galeries Lafayette, Level 1, the space will showcase some of its most recognisable designs, from emerald drop earrings to ruby cocktail rings – including pieces that have already made appearances in ‘Emily In Paris’ and the upcoming ‘Devil Wears Prada 2’. Expect to find the brand’s signature evil eye pendants alongside gold-plated, semi-precious gemstone creations, all handmade using recycled brass. 

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This October, SOHUM Wellness Sanctuary will host a rare, transformative retreat with globally acclaimed therapist and best-selling author Marisa Peer. Limited to just 30 women, the intimate experience invites guests to join an exclusive waitlist to secure their place. Over the course of the day, participants will be guided through grounding rituals, sound healing, and two deep, restorative sessions personally led by Marisa, designed to release emotional blocks and cultivate lasting self-worth. Complemented by nourishing plant-based cuisine and full access to SOHUM’s tranquil spa facilities, the retreat is as restorative as it is unforgettable. Priced at AED 5,555 per person, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for renewal.

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Celebrity make-up artist Patrick Ta is set to host his first-ever Dubai masterclass at the iconic Zabeel Theatre, Palm Jumeirah, on 27th October. Renowned for crafting the red-carpet looks of Gigi Hadid, Kylie Jenner and Camila Cabello, Patrick will reveal the techniques that have redefined modern glamour in an immersive full-day experience. Expect live demonstrations, step-by-step guidance on skin, eyes and lips, insider red-carpet secrets, and an interactive Q&A. With translation in Arabic, Persian and Russian, luxury goodie bags, and the chance to meet Patrick personally, this is a one-day beauty event not to miss.

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Until 24th November, Les Salons at Dubai Opera hosts Blooming Garden, a patrimonial exhibition from Van Cleef & Arpels. Featuring 38 floral creations alongside rare archival documents, the display traces the Maison’s enduring fascination with nature. Highlights include a 1938 Bouquet clip in yellow gold set with sapphires, a 1947 Daisy wristwatch in polished gadrooned gold, and the turquoise-studded Pelouse set from the 1960s. Visitors can also explore the Maison’s iconic Mystery Set technique, which brings velvety depth and brilliance to floral motifs. 

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Tuesdays now mean Las Gitanas, Gitano Dubai’s five-hour beachfront celebration at J1 Beach. From 11am to 4pm, guests can soak up the sun with free-flowing grapes, three signature cocktails, and a boho-chic taster platter – think chicken quesadillas, guacamole, calamari and more – all set to jungle-disco beats. Choose from sofa loungers (AED 195), beach beds (AED 225) or poolside spots (AED 245). VIP cabanas (AED 2,450 for six) include bubbles and a fresh fruit platter. With its Tulum-inspired vibe and stylish beachfront setting, it’s one of Dubai’s most desirable midweek rituals.

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From 15th October, Global Village reopens its gates for another season of shopping, dining and cultural discovery. Drawing millions each year, the open-air destination brings together pavilions from across the world, offering everything from fashion, jewellery and homeware to authentic street food and international cuisines. Add to that live performances, family-friendly entertainment zones and a vibrant carnival atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why this is one of Dubai’s most anticipated annual events. Entry is typically from AED 25, with VIP packs also available. 

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On Sunday 12th October, from 4pm to 9pm, Yellow Bloom presents a one-day exhibition of works by artist Roula Droubi. Her large-scale canvases combine vibrant tones with layered symbolism – yellow flowers signifying renewal and inclusion, horses embodying strength and resilience. Inspired by her own journey from corporate life to art, Roula’s pieces are both expressive and deeply personal. Proceeds from the exhibition will support Jad’s Inclusion, a centre dedicated to children with special needs.

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On Tuesday 14th October at 7:30pm, the Blue Hall at NYU Abu Dhabi Arts Center will host a screening of Happy Holidays, followed by a live conversation with Palestinian filmmaker Scandar Copti. The award-winning drama, which premiered at the Venice International Film Festival and won the Orizzonti Award for Best Screenplay, offers a poignant exploration of family, identity and social expectations through the lives of siblings Fifi and Rami in Jerusalem and Haifa. Both tender and tense, the film has been praised for its piercing realism and powerful performances. 

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If summer has left your skin dull, bloating high or a few extra holiday kilos, Baldan’s Italian innovations promise the ultimate reset. The InfraBaldan 3.0 reactivates metabolism with infrared and light therapy, naturally burning fat and boosting circulation, while the T-Shape 2 combines radiofrequency, laser therapy and mesospheres to firm, smooth and rehydrate. After a few sessions, expect lifted jawlines, reduced water retention, and improved energy and sleep. Available at leading clinics across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it’s the smart way to feel refreshed and radiant this season.

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From 3rd–6th October, London-born concept Studio Bust brings its bespoke sculptures to The Dubai EDITION Hotel in Downtown. Founded by Mads Montagu-Andrews, the brand combines 3D scanning with traditional casting to create custom busts celebrating women’s bodies at every age. Popular for pregnancy keepsakes but embraced by women from their 20s to 80s, each piece is crafted at Studio Bust’s countryside atelier in finishes ranging from bold lacquers to classic bronze. Appointments last around an hour, during which guests review samples, choose poses, and undergo a quick 3D scan. Renders are reviewed in real time, with sculptures starting from approximately AED 2,750.

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