Dubai is known for its extravagant events, and May 2023 is no exception. In this article, we’ve rounded up the must-attend events happening in Dubai in May 2023. So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best that this vibrant city has to offer.
Arabian Travel Market
Don’t miss the Arabian Travel Market – the foremost trade fair for inbound and outbound travel in the Middle East, generating deals worth over AED 91 billion. In its 30th edition, this annual business-to-business exhibition will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 1-4, 2023. Thousands of products and destination offerings from around the globe will be on display, attracting influential buyers and visitors.
The event has previously attracted many professionals, government officials, and international leaders who came together to network, negotiate, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends in travel. This year’s ATM 2023 is expected to be even more significant, with an array of exciting lectures, talks, and panel discussions, including keynote speeches from prominent figures in the industry. The event’s main theme, ‘Working Towards Net Zero,’ will highlight innovative sustainable travel practices.
Date & Time: 1 – 4 May 2023 | Location: Dubai World Trade Centre
The Wine Market
Experience a handpicked selection of the world’s finest wines at The Wine Market’s second edition, hosted by Time Out Market Dubai. Sample from a collection of 200 wines from 15 countries while engaging with wine producers to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the art of winemaking.
To complement your wine journey, indulge in delectable bites from 17 vendors, available exclusively at the Fine Wine Edition on May 2nd.
The event will take place over three days from May 3rd to 5th, with the Standard Edition running from 7 pm to 10 pm, and an extended session on Friday, May 5th, from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Guests can avail of complimentary parking for up to four hours by accessing Souk Al Bahar parking and validating their token at the Atrium bar. A designated smoking area will be available within the market, with specific instructions to be provided to guests upon arrival.
Date & Time: 02 – 05 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED165 | Location: Time Out Market, Souk Al Bahar, Level 3
Imany: Voodoo Cello World Tour
Be mesmerized by Imany’s Voodoo Cello World Tour at Dubai Opera on May 3rd, 2023 at 8pm. Experience the enchanting fusion of Imany’s soulful voice with the resounding melody of eight cellos as she casts a spell on popular hits by Radiohead, Cat Stevens, Donna Summer, Hozier, t.A.t.u., and Bob Marley.
Imany harnesses the power of this captivating musical pairing to create a unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the unique energy of women. With a decade of success in France and global acclaim for hits like Don’t Be So Shy and You Will Never Know, Imany is set to make a triumphant return to the stage.
Don’t miss the chance to witness this unforgettable collaboration between Imany and a cello orchestra.
Date & Time: 19:30 Wed 03 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED300 | Location: Dubai Opera
Back to the 90s
Experience the thrill of the 90s music scene for the first time in Dubai! The Back to 90s festival at The Agenda venue on May 5th, 2023 features music legends like Dr. Alban, Jenny Berggren from Ace of Base, Culture Beat, Nana, and Rednex performing their biggest hits such as “It’s My Life,” “All That She Wants,” “Mr. Vain,” “Lonely,” and “Cotton Eye Joe.” Get ready to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere and feel the real vibe of 90s music. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see these renowned music stage legends all in one place, one date, and one stage. For more information, call +971527005690. See you at the Back to 90s festival!
Date & Time: 20:00 Fri 05 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED229 | Location: The Agenda, Dubai
UK Pink Floyd Experience 2023
On the 6th of May 2023, at 8 pm, prepare to be blown away by the highly acclaimed UK Pink Floyd Experience at the Dubai Opera. As they celebrate the 50th anniversary of their iconic album “The Dark Side of The Moon,” the UK Pink Floyd Experience will transport you into the legendary band’s world with their stunning concert recreations. Featuring top-notch musicians, a breathtaking light show, and over two hours of fantastic music, this show will make you feel as if you are experiencing Floyd’s live concert atmosphere. Come share your love for Pink Floyd’s music with us as we play legendary songs from their seminal albums such as “The Dark Side of The Moon,” “Animals,” “Wish you Were Here,” “The Wall,” and, new for 2023, the much-awaited masterpiece, “Echoes.”
Date & Time: 19:30 Sat 06 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED195 | Location: Dubai Opera
Ripe Market
The Ripe Market at Dubai Police Academy Park is making a comeback with revised timings for the latest season. Come and join the crowds for a weekend-only shopping experience that offers a diverse range of products from artisan vendors and food trucks. From fashion and art to homeware, jewelry, food, and more, there is something for everyone at the market.
Browse through hand-selected merchants offering organic and non-organic produce, hydroponic items, and freshly made products like baked bread, labneh, and olives. You can also satisfy your cravings with delicious offerings from popular eateries such as Boston Lane Cafe, Pizza Di Rocco, Fifth Flavour, and Calipoke.
Besides shopping, the market provides entertainment for all ages. Enjoy live performances, open mic sessions, craft workshops, yoga classes, and much more in the outdoor setting. The market promises a fun-filled day for the whole family. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to experience The Ripe Market at Dubai Police Academy Park.
Date & Time: 06 May 2023 | Price: AED5 | Location: Dubai Police Academy Park
Disney Princess – The Concert
Experience the wonder of 100 years of Disney with “Disney Princess – The Concert,” featuring the talented Firdaus Orchestra in five incredible shows. This enchanting event boasts a star-studded cast of West End and Broadway performers, including Hiba Elchikhe as Princess Jasmine, Steffanie Leigh as Mary Poppins, Anneliese van der Pol as Belle, and Syndee Winters as Nala. Accompanied by the magical music director, Benjamin Rauhala, and conducted by Monica Woodman, this concert will feature over 30 beloved songs from Disney Princesses and Frozen, such as “Let It Go,” “A Whole New World,” “Reflection,” and “How Far I’ll Go.” Concert-goers are encouraged to dress up in their royal attire for an unforgettable evening, complete with behind-the-scenes stories from the cast and larger-than-life animation and theatrical effects, immersing the audience in pure Disney magic.
Date & Time: 06 – 07 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED150 | Location: Coca-Cola Arena
What The Food
The much-awaited “What The Food” event at Alserkal Avenue is back and will take place on May 6-7, promising to be bigger and better than ever before. The event offers an exciting array of activities, including professional food photography workshops led by Akira Back’s Giovanni Ledon and photographer Andrea Salerno, as well as butter-making sessions with Moza Almatrooshi. Visitors can also join vine rolling workshops by Haya’s Kitchen and a tablescaping demonstration for kids with Rashid Almheiri.
Moreover, Cucina del Sul will be among the food stalls featured, and Chef Hadrien will prepare a chef’s table. Attendees can also take part in workshops and discussions on topics such as organic farming and zero-waste food. The event also offers film screenings and a chance to explore creative works through slow art walks. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to experience the diverse offerings of “What The Food” at Alserkal Avenue.
Date & Time: 06 – 07 May 2023 | Price: Free entry | Location: Alserkal Avenue
Dubai Comedy Festival presents Zakir Khan
The Dubai Comedy Festival is thrilled to present Zakir Khan, live at the Dubai Opera on May 14th, 2023. The show will be conducted in Hindi, and attendees must be 16 years or older to enter. The doors will open at 6:00 PM, and the show will begin at 7:00 PM.
Following his hugely successful special, Tathastu, Zakir Khan takes his new show on the road. With past specials such as Haq Se Single (2017) and Kaksha Gyarvi (2018) and over 100,000 tickets sold worldwide, Zakir Khan has established himself as a master storyteller and comedian. He has a unique ability to highlight the comedic elements of everyday life, and his “uniquely Indian” style of humor resonates with audiences from all over. Join us for an unforgettable evening with the “sakht launda” himself, Zakir Khan, live on stage.
Date & Time: 18:00 Sun 14 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED135 | Location: Dubai Opera
Jimmy Carr at Dubai Opera
The Dubai Comedy Festival is featuring Jimmy Carr at the Dubai Opera on May 16th, 2023. The doors open at 9:00 PM, and the show will commence at 9:30 PM. The show is for individuals aged 16 and above, and it will be conducted in English.
Jimmy’s latest performance incorporates humor about various appalling situations. These situations may have impacted you or your loved ones, but remember, they are merely jokes and not actual horrors. Enforcing political correctness in a comedy show is comparable to enforcing health and safety at a rodeo. So, now that you’ve been alerted, go ahead and purchase your tickets!
Date & Time: 21:00 Tue 16 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED200 | Location: Dubai Opera
Jim Jefferies at Dubai Opera
The Dubai Comedy Festival is thrilled to present Jim Jefferies in “Give ‘Em What They Want” at the Dubai Opera on May 17, 2023. The show will start at 9:30 PM, with doors opening at 9:00 PM. The performance will be in English, and attendees must be 16 years or older. Originally from Sydney, Jim Jefferies is a highly regarded comedian of his generation, known for his daring and thought-provoking humor that challenges conventional beliefs. He was named Stand-Up Comedian of the Year at the 2019 Just for Laughs Festival and completed successful tours of Europe and North America in 2020.
Date & Time: 21:00 Wed 17 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED200 | Location: Dubai Opera
My Therapist Ghosted Me feat. Vogue Williams and Joanne McNally
Dubai Opera will be hosting the Dubai Comedy Festival’s presentation of My Therapist Ghosted Me on the 17th of May 2023. Joining us for this event are Vogue Williams and Joanne McNally, the creators of the popular and award-winning podcast. The show promises to be a hilarious and insightful evening, as the duo delves into each other’s personal issues with wit and humor. Offering unqualified yet candid advice, the two will explore topics that their therapists may have struggled with. Doors will open at 6:00 PM, with the show set to begin at 7:00 PM.
Date & Time: 18:00 Wed 17 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED200 | Location: Dubai Opera
Dubai Comedy Festival presents Stand-Up Belmasry
At The Theatre – Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Comedy Festival will be presenting Stand-Up Belmasry, a family-friendly show performed entirely in Arabic. Taking place on the 18th of May 2023, the doors will open at 6:30 PM, with the show scheduled to start at 7:15 PM. This event features Egypt’s top comedians, including Mohamed Salem, Salah El Daly, Pola Samuel, Mahmoud Konafa, Walid Khairy, Noha Kato, and Omar El Hassan “Kintaki”. Produced by Al Hezb El Comedy and Artistry Presents, this collaboration promises to be a night full of laughter, with a 100% Egyptian lineup that you won’t want to miss. Please note that the show is recommended for ages 16 and up.
Date & Time: 18:30 Thu 18 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED150 | Location: The Theatre, Mall of the Emirates
Dubai Comedy Festival presents Amit Tandon: Masala Sandwich
Amit Tandon: Masala Sandwich will be showcased at the Theatre in the Mall of the Emirates during the Dubai Comedy Festival. The event will take place on May 19th, 2023, with the doors opening at 6:30 PM and the show commencing at 7:00 PM. The language of the performance will be Hindi, and all ages are welcome to attend.
Masala Sandwich is a comedic performance that weaves together stories and observations about various aspects of daily life. The show is not just intended to make the audience laugh; it also offers several key takeaways throughout the narrative. Developed and refined through numerous performances in various cities, Masala Sandwich features a blend of storytelling and observational humor. Amit Tandon shares his personal shortcomings as an individual, as well as the challenges he faces as a parent to two teenagers.
Date & Time: 18:30 Fri 19 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED75 | Location: The Theatre, Mall of the Emirates
Angham & Fouad Abdel Wahed Live
The upcoming concert featuring two renowned Egyptian singers, Angham and Fouad Abdel Wahed, is expected to be one of the most thrilling musical events of the year. The concert will be held at the Coca-Cola Arena on May 20, 2023, and it offers an opportunity for music enthusiasts to witness the incredible talents of these two great artists.
Angham and Fouad Abdel Wahed are both popular musicians in the Arab world, and their music has captivated audiences across the Middle East. Presented by Best Moments Events and Onpassive, this concert promises to be an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Ticket prices for Angham & Fouad Abdel Wahed Live in Dubai start from 82.79 USD. Please note that all tickets are final and non-refundable.
Date & Time: 21:00 Sat 20 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED295 | Location: Coca-Cola Arena
The Winner Takes it All! – Bongo’s Bingo
Bongo’s Bingo is returning to Dubai! And for our final show at Zero Gravity before the summer break, we’re making it extra special with “The Winner Takes it All” ABBA extravaganza. Get ready to put on your dancing shoes and disco pants because the classic Bongo’s Bingo experience will be infused with ABBA’s greatest hits and amazing themed prizes. Don’t miss out on this last chance to catch a Bongo’s Bingo Dubai show before the break. Get your tickets early and remember, no re-entry is permitted for this event. The last entry is at 9:30 PM. Accept no imitations!
Date & Time: 20:00 Fri 26 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED150 | Location: Zero Gravity
Bjorn Again at Dubai Opera
On May 26th, the internationally acclaimed BJÖRN AGAIN show will be presented at the Dubai Opera. The show, created and founded by Rod Stephen in Melbourne in 1988, is a satirical and lighthearted ABBA spoof featuring the iconic group’s most famous songs. BJÖRN AGAIN has been credited with starting the ABBA revival that led to the creation of ABBA Gold, Muriel’s Wedding, and MAMMA MIA! The show has been hugely successful, with over 5,000 performances in 72 countries over the past 31 years, making it the most popular and successful show of its kind. BJÖRN AGAIN has performed at prestigious venues such as Buckingham Palace, Wembley Arena, the Royal Albert Hall, and the London Palladium, and has toured with top artists like Cher and Shania Twain. With their performance of ABBA’s greatest hits, this show promises to be one of the best performances of the year!
Date & Time: 19:30 Fri 26 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED150 | Location: Dubai Opera
Peter Pan On Ice
Experience the enchanting world of Neverland as J.M. Barrie’s beloved tale, Peter Pan, takes center stage in a spectacular ice show at The Theatre – Mall of the Emirates in 2023. The Imperial Ice Stars, renowned worldwide for their incredible ice skating, flying, and special effects, will transport you to a magical realm of make-believe on real ice.
Peter, the boy who never grows up, and his loyal companion Tinkerbell, take Wendy and her brothers on a thrilling adventure to Neverland, where they meet the Lost Boys and face the evil Captain Hook and his band of pirates, as well as a ferocious crocodile. With award-winning Tony Mercer’s unique choreography and theatrical staging, you’ll be on the edge of your seat as the world-class skaters perform exhilarating leaps, throws, and spins, including daredevil aerial fights.
This narrated show, suitable for ages 2 and above, lasts 1 hour and 40 minutes, including a break, and features state-of-the-art animated scenery, dazzling costumes, fire-on-ice, and original music and songs by Tim A. Duncan and Edward Barnwell. Children under 2 can attend without a ticket and sit on their parent’s lap. Don’t miss this thrilling family show, Peter Pan on Ice, at The Theatre – Mall of the Emirates.
Date & Time: 26 – 28 May 2023 | Price: Starting AED150 | Location: The Theatre, Mall of the Emirates