August 2026 is an exciting time to explore the vibrant offerings of the UAE. With a plethora of activities ranging from wellness events to delicious culinary experiences and engaging family outings, there’s something for everyone this summer. Here’s a curated list of the best things to do in the UAE this August.
Enhance Your Fitness Routine at a New Health Club
For fitness enthusiasts, ARKHE, Dubai‘s latest all-in-one health and wellness club, promises to elevate your workout experience. Situated in Dubai Marina, ARKHE features state-of-the-art training rooms, a HYROX performance area, personal training, and an innovative recovery space complete with cold plunges, saunas, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. It also hosts Dubai’s first PILAT3S Dynamic Reformer Pilates studio and has an all-day café. While the gym floor is operational now, the full experience will launch in September.
Location: Dubai Marina
Visit: @arkhe.club
Dine at Crunch for All-Day Eats
Open since August 1, Crunch has established itself as a charming spot along Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah 1. Founded by chefs Mukhtar Kosbayev and Anastassiya Kosbayeva, this all-day restaurant and bakery offers an array of delights, from breakfast and pastries to seasonal dishes, all nestled in a warm interior infused with copper and amber tones.
Location: Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1
Visit: @thecrunchdxb
Experience Musical Magic with CoComelon
Families with young children won’t want to miss CoComelon: Sing-A-Long LIVE at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Happening on August 15 and 16, join beloved characters such as JJ and Cody for an interactive musical experience where little ones can enjoy their favourite songs like Wheels on the Bus. Tickets start at Dhs75.
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Visit: @etihadarena.ae
Discover Shinobi, the New Hand Roll Bar
If you’re in the mood for something unique, Shinobi is a new underground-style handroll bar inspired by Tokyo and New York cultures. Located at Villa 8, the bar features a repurposed subway train as seating and offers made-to-order rolls, nigiri, sashimi, and tacos, all wrapped in a vibrant atmosphere with neon signage.
Location: Villa 8, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, Dubai
Visit: @shinobidubai
Let Kids Explore at Wildwood Treetops
Wildwood Treetops at City Centre Mirdif is Dubai’s newest family-friendly destination, offering various free-play adventures and expert-led workshops. With suspended nets, towers, and slides, Little Acorns caters to toddlers, while River Play features STEM-inspired sensory stations.
Location: City Centre Mirdif, Dubai
Visit: @explorersuae
Play Pickleball at the ICD Indoor Court
Through August 16, ICD Brookfield Place has introduced a pop-up indoor pickleball court as part of its summer programme. This fully air-conditioned space, located on Level 1 at The Summer Court, is perfect for those looking to have some fun while staying active. Bookings can be made via the Picklers app.
Location: The Summer Court, Level 1, ICD Brookfield Place, Dubai
Visit: @icdbrookfieldplace
Shop at The Grand, Dubai’s New Mall
Head to Nad Al Sheba Gardens on August 19 for the grand opening of The Grand, the area’s first retail and lifestyle destination. Anchored by Waitrose & Partners, this mall will soon feature various eateries, including Tashas, Kokoro, and Bake My Day.
Location: Nad Al Sheba Gardens, Dubai
Visit: @thegrandnasg
Celebrate the Legacy of Michael Jackson
Fans of the King of Pop can attend “This Is Michael,” a tribute show featuring performer Lenny Jay, on August 22 at Etihad Arena. This two-hour production celebrates that iconic era with over 20 of Michael Jackson’s hits, accompanied by a live band.
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Visit: @etihadarena.ae
Shop at Dubai’s First On Store
Swiss running brand On has opened its first UAE store at the Mall of the Emirates, offering a comprehensive selection of CloudTec running shoes and technical apparel.
Location: Ground Floor, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
Visit: @malloftheemirates
Plan a Date Night at Berenjak
London’s renowned Persian kitchen has made its debut in Abu Dhabi at The House, Al Bateen. The two-story villa serves a menu featuring smoky grilled kababs and stews, including an exclusive treat—Persian tea ice cream.
Location: The House, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Visit: @berenjak.uae
Experience Live Music at Le Piaf
For an enchanting night out, visit Le Piaf at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, where Parisian elegance meets live music. Enjoy a sophisticated ambiance with red velvet seating and French-inflected dining, as evenings progress into captivating performances.
Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, DIFC
Visit: @lepiaf_restaurant_dubai
Catch a Blockbuster at Abu Dhabi’s Latest Cinema
Cinemacity Starlight at Marina Mall offers a cinematic experience like no other. With nine screens, including a flagship Starlight Theatre, this venue combines film, dining, and live experiences all under one roof. Ticket prices start from Dhs40.
Location: Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
Visit: @cinemacityuae
Try Golf at Five Iron
Indoor golf enthusiasts can check out Five Iron Golf’s new location in Business Bay. The sleek venue features Trackman simulator bays and augmented reality games, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a competitive game without sun exposure.
Location: DAMAC Towers by Paramount, Business Bay, Dubai
Price: From Dhs120
Visit: @fiveirongolf.uae
Enjoy a Walk in Central Park Dubai
Dubai’s Central Park, located in Jebel Ali, offers a vast public green space perfect for morning strolls. With shaded paths, running tracks, basketball courts, and food trucks, it’s a serene retreat for visitors and residents alike.
Location: Wasl Gate, Jebel Ali
Experience Thrills at No Grip Drift Karting
No Grip has launched the world’s first two-level indoor drift-karting track in Al Quoz. With specialized karts designed for sliding and spinning, this attraction offers a unique karting experience for individuals aged 12 and above.
Location: Al Ghurair Warehouse Complex, Al Quoz 3, Dubai
Price: From Dhs120 per session
Visit: @nogrip.dxb
Relax at the Serpenti Beach Club
Experience luxury at the Serpenti Beach Club located in Bvlgari Resort Dubai. Access to this exclusive beach club comes at Dhs500 on weekdays and Dhs650 on weekends, fully redeemable on food and drinks. Enjoy pristine views of the Arabian Gulf and sumptuous Bvlgari cocktails.
Location: Bvlgari Resort Dubai, Jumeira Bay Island, Dubai
Price: From Dhs500 on weekdays
Stay Active at Dubai Sports World
Dive into summer sports at Dubai Sports World, running from June 19 until August. This massive indoor sporting arena features a variety of activities, including football, basketball, and cricket, alongside coaching academies and facilities for kids.
Location: Za’abeel Halls 2–6, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai
With this array of activities, August in the UAE is set to be a month filled with excitement and new experiences. Whether you’re looking to work out, dine, or enjoy some family fun, the Emirates have it all.