Dubai, United Arab Emirates-: Dubai Calendar has announced an array of events for residents and visitors to enjoy next month, as the city continues to buzz with energy and excitement. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant art scene at Sikka Art & Design Festival, attending an electrifying concert by international stars, or enjoying high-octane events like the UAE Tour, Dubai is the place to be this February. Get ready for a month packed with unforgettable moments. Here’s a preview of the top events you can’t afford to miss in February.
ARTS & CULTURE
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
- Date: 29 January-3 February 2025
- Location: InterContinental Dubai Festival City
- About: The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is the region’s largest celebration of the written and spoken word. Along with showcasing local talent, it offers attendees of all ages the chance to interact with authors, attend debates, and join workshops. This year features a Start Writing Boot Camp with Harriet Griffey, a conversation with debut novelists Emily Dunlay (Teddy), Sara Hamdan (What Will People Think?), and Juli Min (Shanghailanders). Family activities include Children Take Over LitFest in English and Arabic, while storyteller Vanessa Woolf will entertain with That’s Not My… Dog. Special events also include a women in leadership breakfast with authors Jessamy Hibberd (The Imposter Cure), Maha Abouelenein (7 Rules of Self-Reliance), and Su Bridgman JD (The CQ Edge).
- Date: 31 January-9 February 2025
- Location: Al Shindagha Historic District
- About: Dubai Culture’s flagship initiative, the Sikka Art & Design Festival, returns with its latest edition. Artists from the UAE and across the GCC unite to transform Al Shindagha Historic District with works that envision the future. Set in the heart of the city’s most historic district, the festival comes to life with exhibitions, installations, poetry nights, music performances, workshops, and thought-provoking films.
LIFESTYLE
Exhibition: Naruto The Gallery Experience
- Date: 31 January-6 April 2025
- Location: Dubai Outlet Mall
- About: Embark on an unforgettable journey with one of anime’s most beloved characters at Naruto The Gallery Experience. This themed exhibition takes you through the young ninja’s iconic adventures with a curated display of stunning visuals, dynamic video clips, and exclusive artwork by renowned anime artists. Explore the evolution of characters, epic battle scenes, and the strong bonds of camaraderie that define Naruto’s legacy. Plus, fans can enjoy exclusive merchandise and a themed café offering treats inspired by the series.
- Date: 1 February 2025
- Location: Expo City Dubai
- About: If a great night out means enjoying tasty food, lively music, and a crowd of like-minded individuals, then Break The Block is the place to be. The event features an exciting lineup, including Simon Green, better known as Bonobo, South African DJ Rosey Gold, and Dutch producer and musician Jael. Bonobo, renowned for his fusion of downtempo, house, and ambient music, will take the stage as the headliner, captivating the crowd with his hits, including the Grammy-nominated track, Linked.
- Date: Until 2 February 2025
- Location: Citywide
- About: Dubai is welcoming the Lunar New Year in grand style with vibrant citywide festivities running until 2 February. Home to a diverse mix of over 200 nationalities and cultures, the city has transformed into the ultimate destination for everyone to experience one of the most important festivals in Chinese culture with a dynamic fusion of cultural entertainment, exclusive retail promotions at leading malls and lifestyle destinations, and specially curated menus bursting with festive flavours at top restaurants.
- Date: 14-16 February 2025
- Location: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
- About: Taste of Dubai is back, offering an exciting mix of top-tier restaurants, tasting sessions, cooking workshops, and live music in a relaxed outdoor setting in Dubai Media City. Savour bite-sized signature dishes from popular spots like Leña, Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori, and Miss Lily’s, or roll up your sleeves for a hands-on masterclass with renowned chefs. Whether you’re craving Chinese flavours at Demon Duck or fusion dishes at Osteria Funkoolio, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Other standout eateries include Rhodes W1, Indya by Vineet, City Social, and Maya by Chef Richard Sandoval. Plus, kids can enjoy fun-filled play zones while the adults indulge in culinary delights.
- Date: 19-23 February 2025
- Location: Dubai Harbour
- About: Since its debut over three decades ago, the Dubai International Boat Show has become one of the region’s premier marine events. It highlights luxury superyachts and the finest leisure crafts from across the globe, offering a unique opportunity for buyers, sellers, and boating enthusiasts to explore the latest trends and innovations in the industry. Whether you’re a buyer ready to make a purchase or an exhibitor seeking new connections, the Dubai International Boat Show is an event not to be missed.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
- Date: 31 January- 22 February 2025
- Location: Gate Avenue DIFC
- About: For an unforgettable evening of smooth live music and sophistication, head to Jazz Avenue in DIFC, where renowned jazz and blues artists will grace the stage. From 31 January to 22 February, every weekend will feature an exciting blend of performers, including soul and funk vocalists from around the globe, with shows starting at 7:45pm. The diverse lineup will showcase vibrant Afro-Cuban and Brazilian rhythms, as well as neo-soul and contemporary jazz beats. Each weekend offers a celebration of exceptional talent, blending cultural influences with modern melodies.
Atif Aslam
- Date: 1 February 2025
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Pakistani music icon Atif Aslam is making his highly anticipated return to the city, ready to captivate fans with his romantic ballads. Prepare for an unforgettable evening as he performs soulful tracks from popular Coke Studio sessions alongside chart-topping Bollywood hits. Known for his powerful vocals and memorable melodies, Aslam is celebrated as one of Pakistan’s top music exports, with iconic songs like Dil Diyan Gallan and Tajdar-e-Haram that continue to top the charts.
Sweeney Todd live
- Date: 1-8 February 2025
- Location: Dubai Opera
- About: Step into the dark underworld of Victorian London with The Demon Barber of Fleet Street – A Musical Thriller. Featuring Stephen Sondheim’s chilling score and Hugh Wheeler’s gripping narrative, this production will immerse audiences in the heart of central London. Widely regarded as one of Broadway’s greatest masterpieces, this darkly comedic thriller has captivated audiences since its 1979 debut, even inspiring Tim Burton’s acclaimed film adaptation starring Johnny Depp. With iconic songs like The Worst Pies in London, Pretty Women, Epiphany, and Joanna, the musical has propelled Broadway legends such as Angela Lansbury, Patti LuPone, and Josh Groban to career-defining heights.
The Corrs live
- Date: 6 February 2025
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Join siblings Andrea, Sharon, Caroline, and Jim, the legendary Irish band The Corrs, for an unforgettable musical experience. This multi-million-selling quartet expertly blends pop rock with traditional Celtic music, crafting hits with distinctive folk influences. Fans can look forward to timeless classics from their debut album Forgiven, Not Forgotten, including Runaway, as well as beloved tracks from Talk on Corners, such as I Never Loved You Anyway and So Young.
Rivermaya The Reunion live
- Date: 9 February 2025
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Get ready to relive the anthems that defined a generation as legendary Filipino rock band Rivermaya takes the stage. Celebrating their legacy with The Reunion World Tour, this one-night-only concert will be packed with nostalgic tracks from the heart of Filipino rock ‘n’ roll. Join original members Mark Escueta and Nathan Azarcon as they perform massive hits from the band’s Trip and Atomic Bomb
Jack and Michael Whitehall Live
- Date: 14 February 2025
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Prepare for a double dose of laughs as Jack Whitehall takes the stage, joined by his father Michael. Known for the hit series Travels With My Father, Jack will offer a behind-the-scenes look at his witty, whirlwind family life with fresh, never-before-heard anecdotes. The evening will be filled with one-liners, insider stories, and possibly a few family secrets, with Jack’s mother, Hilary Whitehall, also joining in to keep the peace when things get heated.
Poohkie Live
- Date: 15 February 2025
- Location: Sheikh Rashid Auditorium
- About: Join Filipino impersonator, actor, and singer Pooh, along with award-winning comedian, actress, and TV host Pokwang, for the hilarious Poohkie Show. The lineup also includes Chad Kinis, winner of Last One Laughing Philippines. Pooh, who rose to fame on the comedy show Banana Split, is known for his spot-on impersonations, especially of boxer Manny Pacquiao. Pokwang, born Marietta Subong, first gained recognition after winning the reality talent show Clown in a Million in 2004.
Tiesto live
- Date: 15 February 2025
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Get ready for an electrifying night of dance music as superstar Tiësto returns to Dubai. Spinning his biggest hits, including The Business, Jackie Chan, and Don’t Be Shy, the Dutch DJ will deliver an unforgettable performance. Known as the ‘Godfather of EDM,’ Tiësto was crowned the world’s top DJ by DJ Magazine three years in a row from 2002 to 2004. A global icon, he has captivated audiences worldwide, headlining major events from Las Vegas to Sydney.
MetaMoon in Dubai
- Date: 15 February 2025
- Location: Expo City Dubai
- About: The ultimate Asian pop culture event arrives with the highly anticipated debut of the MetaMoon Music Festival in Dubai. Former Super Junior-M member Lau will keep the crowd dancing with hits like Trap and Fantastic. Joining him is Lee, the first female winner of High School Rapper 3 and Show Me the Money 11, known for tracks like Day & Night. Also taking the stage is rising star mikah, whose soulful songs like Lost in Translation have captivated fans worldwide.
Ghostly Kisses Live
- Date: 16 February 2025
- Location: Bla Bla Dubai
- About: Talented French-Canadian pop-rock artist and songwriter Margaux Sauve is known for her unique sound, blending chamber music with deep house beats. Enjoy tracks like Empty Note and Heartbeat alongside other hits from her debut album Heaven, Wait. Each song, crafted in collaboration with partner Louis-Étienne Santais, will take you on a captivating journey from darkness to light.
Rewind Fest DXB 2025
- Date: 22 February 2025
- Location: Bla Bla Dubai
- About: Rewind Fest DXB is back at the beachside hotspot Bla Bla Dubai, taking you on a nostalgic journey with legendary artist Tony Hadley. He’ll be returning to the stage to perform hits from his solo career as well as favorites from Spandau Ballet. Joining him are other iconic hitmakers, including Midge Ure, Tom Bailey of The Thompson Twins, Tunde, The Christians, Katrina, Toyah, Tiffany, and Disco Inferno. Hosted by The Doctor from Doctor and the Medics, the event promises a vibrant atmosphere with great food, live performances, DJs, and a variety of activities throughout the venue.
Iyad Rimawi Live
- Date: 22-23 February 2025
- Location: Zabeel Theatre
- About: Prepare to be transported to the atmospheric streets of Damascus as Syrian-born maestro Iyad Rimawi returns to Dubai. Widely regarded as one of the most talented contemporary Arab composers, Rimawi’s performance is set to be another sold-out success. With a string of hit albums, including his debut Tales from Damascus, and as the first Arab artist to sign with Sony Music Middle East, Rimawi has earned widespread acclaim from both critics and fans alike.
Strings & Dreams: A French Classical Music Journey
- Date: 23 February 2025
- Location: Dubai Opera Studio
- About: Prepare for an evening of musical elegance as the Baldaquin Ensemble, a talented string quartet, takes the stage. Enjoy a selection of French classical masterpieces by iconic composers Claude Debussy, Gabriel Fauré, and Maurice Ravel, as Petr Gladysh, Anna Larionova-Gladysh, Sergei Belozertsev, and Daria Kuchenova bring the sounds of ‘Le Belle France’ to life. Joining them is Larionova-Gladysh, a celebrated violinist with honors from the Australian Concerto & Vocal Competition and various international contests in Italy. Violinist Belozertsev, a laureate of the Andrea Postacchini International Violin Competition, and Beethoven Competition winner Kuchenova will also shine alongside the ensemble, delivering a performance sure to captivate all.
Arooj Aftab Live
- Date: 25 February 2025
- Location: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
- About: Get ready to sing along to some of the most beloved hits as Pakistani artist Arooj Aftab graces the stage with her unique blend of South Asian classical music, jazz, and contemporary sounds. Aftab’s accolades include a Grammy win for her track Mohabbat and two nominations for her collaborative album Love in Exile. Her critically acclaimed solo albums, Vulture Prince and Night Reign, have solidified her as one of the most innovative voices in global music. With performances at iconic festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury, Aftab continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
SPORT
Dubai Basketball vs Borac Mozzart
- Date: 2 February 2025
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena
- About: Dubai Basketball, the city’s first international sports franchise, will face Borac Mozzart at Coca-Cola Arena. Established in 2024, Dubai Basketball aims to become a dominant force in the ABA League, one of Europe’s premier basketball competitions. Borac Mozzart, one of Serbia’s most iconic clubs, has a rich history of developing legendary players such as Radmilo Misovic, Dragan Kicanovic, and Zeljko Obradovic.
The UAE Swat Challenge
- Date: 1-5 February 2025
- Location: Al Ruwayya
- About: Following the success of previous editions, The UAE SWAT Challenge is returning. Hosted by Dubai Police, this international competition aims to foster cooperation among special weapons and tactics (SWAT) teams. The event promotes the exchange of ideas, positive values, solidarity, and respect between team members. Participants will face tactical, assault, officer rescue, and obstacle challenges for a grand prize. Visitors can also join in and compete in their own SWAT-style challenges.
Burj2Burj
- Date: 9 February 2025
- Location: Burj Khalifa to Jumeirah Burj Al Arab
- About: Burj2Burj is back after a successful debut in January 2024. This half marathon route, designed by experienced runners, spans from the iconic Burj Khalifa to the stunning Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. Along the 21.1km course, live music, a cheering crowd, and breathtaking city views will keep you motivated. After crossing the finish line, visit the vibrant finisher’s park. Live registrations begin at the race village on 7 February, where you can pick up your race bib and a packed goodie bag.
Gold Cup
- Date: 5-22 February 2025
- Location: Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club
- About: The Gold Cup (Dubai Open) is a prestigious 20-goal handicap competition, regarded as the top trophy in the Dubai Polo series. As the third major prize of the season, following the Silver Cup and Polo Masters Cup, the event will feature the world’s best polo teams and players, bringing the city’s polo calendar to a grand close. With a variety of packages available, there’s something for everyone, from family-friendly picnic spots on the sidelines to exclusive VIP Lounge experiences.
Baseball United UAE Series
- Date: 14-16 February 2025
- Location: The Sevens Stadium
- About: Get ready for the GCC’s first professional baseball teams at the Baseball United UAE Series, where the Arabia Wolves face the Mid East Falcons from 14 to 16 February at The Sevens Stadium. Watch MLB legends like Robinson Cano, Didi Gregorius, Pablo Sandoval, and Alejandro de Aza in action.Founded in 2023, the Arabia Wolves are making history in the Middle East. With three exciting games and five regional prospects making their pro debut, don’t miss the action.
UAE Tour Dubai Stage
- Date: 22 February 2025
- Location: Dubai Police Officer’s Club
- About: Get ready for thrilling action as the competition takes cyclists from Dubai Police Officer’s Club to Dubai Harbour. Participants will pedal along the city’s edge, venture into the desert landscape of Al Qudra Cycle Track, and head towards Jumeirah Islands. The route then loops back through Palm Jumeirah, riding along Crescent Road, before reaching the final destination at Dubai Harbour. In addition to being a challenging race, the event offers scenic routes that highlight the diverse beauty of Dubai.
Dubai Calendar allows residents and tourists to discover all the events, festivals and experiences Dubai has to offer. For more information, please visit: www.visitdubai.com/en/whats-on/dubai-events-calendar.