UAE: Top things to do in the country from May 16-18

Embrace the weekend with these fun-filled activities and offers around the country

  • PUBLISHED: Thu 15 May 2025, 3:02 PM UPDATED: Thu 15 May 2025, 3:26 PM

The weekend is here, so is our guide to the best events and activities happening around the UAE. Here's the list:

Groove to popular French DJ's beats

On Friday, May 16, Ling Ling Ultra Lounge at Atlantis The Royal will host DEMAYÄ, the acclaimed South of France DJ and producer known for his bold, genre-blending electronic music. Part of the lounge’s high-energy May DJ lineup, the night promises an unforgettable set in an intimate, upscale setting. Ling Ling is open from 11pm to 3am, with a minimum table spend of Dh3,000 and entry limited to guests aged 21 and over.

Get your hands on limited-edition merch and milkshakes

Five Guys UAE is celebrating its 10-year anniversary at Dubai Mall on May 17, marking a decade since the popular burger brand first launched in the UAE in 2015. With a loyal fanbase across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, the brand is commemorating the milestone with an exclusive giveaway for dine-in customers, offering limited-edition merch like a t-shirt and a fun 360° camera experience. The celebration kicks off at 10am, and merchandise will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis. It has also launched two limited-edition milkshake flavours—Coffee and Mango—available now for Dh25 across all locations and delivery platforms. Handspun and customisable, the new shakes offer a tropical or caffeinated twist to your summer treat.

A vibrant beachside activation

To celebrate the launch of its new 7UP Zero Sugar Extra Fizz, 7UP is hosting a vibrant beachside activation at Kite Beach this weekend. The lifeguard tower-inspired pop-up will feature a live DJ, exciting giveaways, limited-edition summer merch, and fun experiences like the interactive Splash Shaker game, a Mixology Counter with custom 7UP mocktails, an ice bath challenge, and the Fizz-O-Clock Mixology Showdown. Running on weekends from 1pm to 7pm, the event promises refreshing drinks, playful competition, and a fizzy, flavour-packed beach vibe.

Mango mania

Kishmish is welcoming mango season with a special Afghan-inspired Mango Mania menu, running from mid-May until the end of July. Available at both its Al Wasl and Mirdif locations, the limited-time menu puts everyone’s favourite summer fruit in the spotlight with a variety of creatively crafted mango-based dishes and refreshing drinks. It’s a seasonal celebration not to be missed for mango lovers looking to enjoy a unique twist on Afghan flavours.

Indulge in authentic North Indian cuisine

Chatori Gali, Dubai’s beloved North Indian vegetarian restaurant renowned for its authentic street food and signature golden, crispy jalebis, is marking a major milestone—its 15th anniversary this May. To celebrate the occasion and thank its loyal customers, the restaurant is offering all main course dishes for just Dh15 across all its outlets, a generous drop from the usual Dh35–40. The special anniversary offer is available until May 30, giving both longtime fans and new diners the perfect opportunity to enjoy Chatori Gali’s rich, flavourful dishes at an unbeatable price.

Head to Abu Dhabi for a staycation

Jannah Executive Hotel Apartments has officially opened in Abu Dhabi, offering 230 stylish units designed for business and long-stay travelers. Featuring a rooftop pool, gym, and the Olive Tree Restaurant, the property blends modern comfort with Jannah Hotels & Resorts’ signature Bedouin hospitality. Conveniently located on Al Meena Street near major city landmarks, it marks a significant expansion for the brand in the UAE.

Live Latin music

Above Eleven is turning up the weekend vibes with its new summer night experience, Ritmo Arriba, every Friday and Saturday from 8pm to midnight. Guests can enjoy live Latin music, vibrant atmosphere, and a trio of dishes like ceviches, bao buns, and grilled anticuchos paired with beverages. Two packages are available: Ritmo 211 (Dh211 for three beverages and three dishes) and Ritmo Libre (Dh311 for two hours of free-flow beverages and three dishes), making it the perfect indoor escape to spice up your summer nights.