We’re five months deep into 2023 already and our social calendars are alive and buzzing as ever. This May, we have put together a round-up of cool parties, exclusive dining concepts, staycations, and more to keep the fun levels high in these oh-so-hot climes! Bookmark this page because we will be updating it with new additions often — not a dull day or night in sight 😏
Scroll below to view 24 amazing things to fill your May calendar with
F.R.N.D.S Grand Café collaborates with Prime Gourmet
Calling all food enthusiasts and meat lovers! Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing adventure as it joins with the prestigious Prime Gourmet for an exclusive collab. For a limited time, these culinary powerhouses are teaming up to bring you a gastronomic experience that combines the best of both worlds. Get ready to indulge in a fusion of flavour, as this unique partnership promises to elevate your café experience to new heights.
Opens on May 27, 8.30pm at F.R.N.D.S Grand Café, Ground floor, Address Fountain Views
For reservations, call +971 4 564 2399 or email
Prepare for an ultimate prison adventure game
Get ready to don your stripes and embark through pixelated prison walls!! It’s time to turn the lockdown and experience a prison adventure where you solve cells and hunt for team points. Inspired by popular TV shows, Prison Island aims to transport players to an alternate reality with stunning effects and designs. To enhance the experience, laser Island, a laser tag arena, is impeccably designed to push adventure seekers above to their limits. Age limit is 8 yrs to 88 yrs. Al Zahia City Centre, Sharjah, Opens 10am to 12am
For more information, visit or call 971 52 343 2660.
Fly on a private jet (yes, really)
Via comeplayfly.com
Boujee activities should come as no surprise to us, especially in Dubai. If you’re already planning where you’re headed for Eid Al Adha 2023, and are ready to splurge, then FLY FIVE has *got you*. With world-class dining, recline seats and sofas, high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, and a nightclub-quality sound system, FLY FIVE jets are meticulously designed to ensure utmost comfort indulgence, and breath-taking experiences. This private jet can travel from the UAE to anywhere in the world with a 12 hours fly time.
For more info or reservation, contact comeplayfly.com.
Prepare for your future with Cosmo Careers 2023
The second edition of Cosmo Careers Festival is here!
Navigating the dynamic careers landscape during an era led by the internet can be challenging for young professionals entering the industry. This makes NOW a perfect time for our audience of Gen Z readers, students, and others to learn from the best of the best. From learning how to make content creation your full-time job to getting your foot in the fashion industry – we’re delving into the topics that you *really* want to learn about.
We will be hosting the festival from 22 – 23 May 2023. Click here to register for any of the Cosmo Careers 2023 panels above (!!)
Experience YSL Beauty’s multi-sensory pop-up Beauty Zone
Opening its doors to its Dubai visitors, Yves Saint Laurent Beauty is set to welcome shoppers to its latest pop-up. The multi-sensory retail experience will blend beauty, music, technology, and more to capture the attention of guests and immerse them in a world of futuristic luxury beauty. Consisting of a series of master classes hosted by Senior Regional Makeup Artist Iman Boutari and Fragrance Expert Ghassan Hajjaj, the exclusive 12-day activation will teach visitors more about the products they love. Guests can also enjoy a series of customized activities such as games and photo opportunities.
Visit the YSL Beauty Zone in Dubai Mall Star Atrium anytime between May 24 to June 4 to enjoy this exclusive experience.
Feast on a delectable Sunday Roast at One Life, d3
Enjoy the best of what One Life has to offer with this delicious Sunday Roast that is guaranteed to blow your mind. The dish will be served alongside Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, gravy, and more as you enjoy the jazzy tunes played by resident DJs Z.N.Di and BoAndMo as part of The Listening Room.
Visit the kitchen and cafe on May 21 or any other Sunday to avail this one-of-a-kind indulgence.
Indulge in 1 Dirham Oreo Pancakes at Denny’s Diner
Via Denny’s Diner
Yes, you read that right, delectable pancakes for only Dhs1 at the iconic Denny’s Diner in honour of its 70th birthday. Denny’s Diner is a family-oriented American chain of restaurants with branches across the UAE. All you have to do to is register on the Denny’s Diner website when the countdown stops to be one of the first 500 to get a confirmation email and fulfill your pancake cravings! The voucher is valid from May 24 until July 31.
Party with Trey Songz at The Penthouse
Billboard chart-topper Trey Songz makes his way to Dubai at the biggest R&B night in The Penthouse. The Bottoms Up singer and songwriter will be performing his biggest hits for guests who can enjoy the gorgeous nightlife of the city while trying out experimental gastronomic creations and amazing drinks.
Bar entry for the exclusive night hosted on Saturday, May 20 is free for ladies and starts at Dhs300 for gents. Find out more here or contact +971 58 900 4868 for reservations.
Recharge with the Banyan Tree AlUla x Barry’s Weekend Retreat
Enjoy the majestic views of AlUla in this transformative experience by Banyan Tree AlUla in their recent wellness partnership with Barry’s. The retreat invites guests to enjoy a three-night stay in the serenity of the Banyan Tree Villa in Ashar Valley from May 25 – 28. During the stay, guests can take part in two fulfilling Barry’s workouts hosted by the renowned Connor Moodie and Drey Bezruk of Barry’s Abu Dhabi. They can then recover in the blissful surroundings of Banyan Tree Spa and unwind in the tranquil rock pool. Banyan Tree will also be hosting gastronomical experiences including cooking classes and a bespoke dinner experience.
For more information or to reserve the Barry’s weekend retreat at Banyan Tree AlUla, click here, email [email protected], or call +966 14 512 0000.
Dubai Comedy Festival celebrates three women in comedy
Via @dubaicomedyfest Instagram
Those of us who spent the lockdown years scrolling through YouTube shorts might have come across at least one of these three ladies: Beth Stelling, Rachel Feinstein or Atsuko Okatsuka. Each of them brings a unique perspective in comedy and they are sure to have you ROFL. While Beth has performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Rachel’s acute observations and silly characters will keep you engaged. And Asian American comedian Okatsuka has the power to make heavier topics into light-hearted conversations. Don’t miss out on catching these powerhouses on stage at Dubai Opera on 15th May 2023. Doors open at 9 pm.
Tickets for the show shart at Dhs175 and you can find them here. Use discount code DCFCOSMO30 for 30% off the tickets to this hilarious female trio show.
Backstreet Boys brings DNA World Tour to Abu Dhabi
Via @backstreetboys Instagram
One of the best-selling boybands of all time, Backstreet Boys, is coming to the capital for their DNA world tour. Performing on 7 May at the Etihad Arena, the five-piece will perform songs from their 9th studio album featuring hits Quit Playing Games with My Heart, Get Down, As Long As You Love Me and many more. Don’t miss out on this one-night-only performance that is sure to be an unforgettable one.
Prices start from Dhs270. Get yours at etihadarena.ae.
A candlelight tribute to Bruno Mars comes to Dubai
Courtesy of Fever Original
Created by Fever Original’s Candlelight Concerts, this upcoming unforgettable experience will be an intimate and illuminated concert featuring the top hits of Bruno Mars. Some of the iconic tunes you can expect to be played as Uptown Funk, 24K Magic, Grenade, and others. “A Tribute to Bruno Mars” will be held at L’Alliance Française on Saturday, 13 May at 5 pm and 7 pm and at Skylight, Arjaan By Rotana, on Saturday, May 27 at 7:30 pm.
Prices start from Dhs150. Get yours at feverup.com or on the links mentioned above.
Mocktail-making masterclass by Lyre ay Address Beach Resort
Courtesy of Lyre’s
Who said non-drinkers cannot have fun? This exclusive event by Lyre’s, creators of globally-loved non-alcoholic spirits, will allow you to let your creative juices flow as they teach you how to make the most mind-blowing, 0.0% cocktails. The extravaganza will be taking place on Saturday, May 13, from 5 pm to 8 pm. Unlock your inner mixologist at Li’Brasil, Address Beach Resort.
Packages start at Dhs328 per person. For more information and reservations, call +971 4 879 8866 or email [email protected].
Dubai’s hottest new cocktail bar and social club AGORA is here
Opening their doors this summer in The Dubai EDITION Hotel for visitors who want a guaranteed good time, AGORA is the hottest new place in town. The stylish new club will serve drinks by the internationally-loved mixologist Simone Caporale with thrilling DJ sets and the stunning Downtown backdrop of Dubai. AGORA will be open from Monday to Thursday 6 pm until 1 am, and from Friday to Sunday from 6 pm until 3 am.
THAT Concept Store celebrates sneaker and collectible culture with RARE-ISM
Courtesy of THAT Store
Returning for the second time is THAT Concept Store’s RARE-ISM which will begin with a panel discussion on “This is not a Toy” and indulge enthusiasts with live music, art, graffiti, DJ sets, and more. Those interested can visit THAT store to find limited edition sneakers and rare collaborations such as BAPE x Raf Simons, THISNEVERTHAT, Tom Sachs, Spike Lee, and more. The curation is also hosting a virtual gaming NBA2K tournament in-store that visitors will have to register for — THAT X YBK.
The event will take place at THAT Concept Store from May 12-13. Those interested can RSVP here.
Vini Vici to perform at Dubai’s Terra Solis
Having collaborated on 🔥 hits with Steve Aoki, Armin van Buuren, and other electronic music legends, Vini Vici is making their way to Dubai with a night to remember. Terra Solis by Tomorrowland will host the world-famous DJ on May 13.
Tickets start at Dhs161 and you can find them here. Contact +971 52 709 2000 for more information.
Ounass hosts Atmosphere by Fear of God at Alserkal Avenue
Atmosphere, an exclusive activation by Fear of God, has its first Dubai location at Concrete, Alserkal Avenue. Open from May 10 to 12, Atmosphere will feature a capsule collection by the luxury fashion brand, which will later be available on ounass.com on May 13.
The activation is open from 10 am to 10 pm.
Istituto Marangoni Dubai and Global Fashion Exchange’s Clothing Swap Event
Courtesy of Istituto Marangoni Dubai
Be a part of the first large-scale clothing swap project in UAE this May. Organised by Istituto Marangoni Dubai and Global Fashion Exchange, the event aims to engage students and consumers in swapping clothing to promote sustainable fashion practices. Visit the fashion design school on 4th May from 4 pm to 7:30 pm to participate and listen to the panel discussion led by Journalist and Author, Sujata Assomull that will discuss sustainable fashion and the importance of the circular economy.
To RSVP, visit globalfashionxchange.org/gfxdubai
Bagatelle launches a new music-centric night
Courtesy of Bagatelle
Bring out your party animal cause French-Mediterranean restaurant, Bagatelle is launching VICE on 11th May. This monthly event will be hosted every Thursday with epic party vibes featuring a lineup of the hottest DJs and artists across a variety of music genres. Along with great beats, you’ll also be served with a sumptuous culinary offering that brings French Riveria to your plate.
To make reservations, call +971 4 354 5035
The Ultimate Gal’s Day Out at Cafe Society
Courtesy of Cafe Society
Ring your girlfriends right now because Cafe Society is hosting a Ladies’ Day with 50% off the entire menu. Located in the picturesque Dubai Marina neighbourhood, the luxurious eatery boasts stunning interiors and an impressive lineup of dishes that you and your girls will love. Tuck into Eggs Benedict, Napolitano Pizza, Art Deco Tiramisu, the signature Chocolate Dulce de Leche, and more — but not before taking some snaps for the ‘gram!
For reservations or more information, please call +971 4 318 377
Summer Residents Offer at Kempinski Hotel and Residences Palm Jumeirah
Via @kempinskipalm Instagram
Experience an unforgettable island escape with Kempinski Hotel and Residences Palm Jumeirah. Its latest Summer Residents offer allows GCC residents to enjoy an idyllic stay at the luxurious hotel and get up to 30% off the standard daily rate. Additionally, you can also indulge in exclusive privileges like complimentary breakfast at Brunello restaurant, access to the Titan Kids Club and fitness centre along with welcome amenities. The offer is valid between 1 May to 30 September.
For reservations and more information, call +971 4 444 2000
Magical Disney Concert
Courtesy of Disney concert
Step into the world of enchantment and wonder with your little prince and princesses at The Disney Princess — The Concert show coming to Dubai for the very first time. On May 6th and 7th, the production company will put together two captivating performances at the Coca-Cola Arena. During this once-in-a-lifetime experience, you, your family and friends can sway to the music of “Let It Go” from Frozen, “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, “Reflection” from Mulan, and “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana.
Tickets start from AED 150 on and are available now at coca-cola-arena.com.
Fouquet’s Afternoon Tea
Supplied by Le Goûter du Fouquet
Make your afternoon a luxurious affair with Le Goûter du Fouquet’s tea. Located at the heart of Downtown Dubai, the French restaurant has two gifted pastry chefs: Chef Hugo and Chef Julien who have carefully curated a mouth-watering display of delicacies in a stunning red box. Featuring homemade mini pastries and cake, with the likes of macarons, hazelnut fudge, chocolate, caramel, and lemon meringue tarts; this afternoon tea is perfect for memorable occasions like baby shower, a girl’s afternoon or a birthday. Priced at Dhs250 per person.
To make a reservation, call +971 4 524 5301 or email at [email protected]
DREAM Dubai launches new season
Courtesy of DREAM Dubai
Get ready to be mesmerized by nature’s mystique and magnanimity showcased by DREAM Dubai’s season 4: The Wild Side. During this unique show, you’ll be taken on a captivating journey into a magical forest decorated with flora, fauna and wildlife. The thrilling experience is delivered using animalistic motions, a burst of colour, extravagant graphics, and a seductive performance along with a Mediterranean-inspired menu and a new drinks menu. Experience the performance from Wednesdays to Sundays, 8 pm till late at Address Beach Resort.
For more information and reservations, call +971 4 220 0224 or email at [email protected]