When it comes to shaking off the January blues, Dubai offers a plethora of delightful activities to elevate your spirits. This guide highlights how you can combat the infamous Blue Monday with a variety of engaging and enjoyable experiences around the city. Whether you’re feeling the weight of post-holiday blues or simply in need of a pick-me-up, these activities promise to make you smile and may even turn your day around.
Head to a Cafe Where You Can Watch Dogs Play
Pawdy Neighbors is one of the most charming cafés in Dubai, uniquely designed for both humans and their furry friends. You can enjoy delicious food while watching the antics of playful pups in the adjoining doggy daycare. The joy of witnessing these adorable animals at play is sure to put a smile on your face, proving that Blue Monday doesn’t stand a chance here.
Where: Pawdy Neighbors, The Boulevard and Al Manzil, Downtown Dubai
Contact: @pawdyneighbors
Treat Yourself to a Naughty Pizza and Get One for Free
This Blue Monday, Naughty Pizza at Dubai Festival City is sweetening the deal by serving a complimentary Margherita with any pizza ordered. Why not indulge in a delicious pizza and benefit from this offer to brighten your day? It’s hard to feel blue when you’re surrounded by great food and good company!
Where: Naughty Pizza, Market Island Food Hall Corner, Dubai Festival City
When: Monday, January 19
Contact: @naughtypizza.dxb
Go for a Mental Health Walk
If you’re feeling down, there’s nothing quite like a brisk walk to boost your mood. Dubai is filled with beautiful paths that offer stunning views of the city skyline or serene beach landscapes. Taking a stroll can elevate those endorphin levels and help you momentarily forget about Blue Monday.
Immerse Yourself in Greenery
Skip the blues and immerse yourself in the vibrant greenery at The Green Planet. This indoor rainforest features a variety of wildlife, such as lemurs and sloths, making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nature has a way of lifting spirits, and a visit here is guaranteed to make you smile.
Where: The Green Planet, City Walk Dubai
When: Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm
Contact: www.thegreenplanetdubai.com
Get Hyped Up at House of Hype
At House of Hype in Dubai Mall, excitement rules the day. With its vibrant colors and 25 different activity zones, it’s impossible not to feel uplifted here. From interactive games to whimsical characters wandering the halls, this venue ensures that Blue Monday will never dampen your spirit.
Where: House of Hype, Chinatown, Dubai Mall
When: Open Sunday to Thursday from 10 am to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 12 am
Cost: Dhs119 per person
Contact: www.house-of-hype.com
Visit a Cat Cafe
If there’s anything that can chase away the blues, it’s cuddling cute kitties! Vibrissae Cat Cafe has multiple branches across the city, offering a cozy atmosphere to sip on coffee while enjoying the company of adorable cats. Just an hour spent here can bring an instant smile to your face.
Where: Vibrissae, various locations
When: Open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 10 pm, Friday to Sunday from 10 am to 12 am
Cost: From Dhs39 per person for entry into the cat lounge
Contact: @catcafevibrissae
Get a Free Dessert
What better way to comfort yourself than enjoying something sweet? The Banc is offering a complimentary chocolate lava cake with every main course ordered this Monday. Treat yourself, because no one should face Blue Monday empty-handed!
Where: The Banc, Renaissance Hotel, Business Bay
When: Monday, January 19, from 1 pm to 6 pm
Contact: @thebanc.dubai
Enjoy a Good Book, for Free
Another way to escape the clutches of Blue Monday is by getting lost in a good book. Bookends, a pre-loved bookstore, is handing out free books hand-picked for their uplifting qualities. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore new stories and perhaps find a title that resonates with you!
Where: Bookends, Dubai Digital Park, Dubai Silicon Oasis
When: Monday, January 19, in-store
Contact: @bookendsae