Our picks of Dubai’s best cultural offerings this month.
4 January: Catch a Flick
Returning for its fourth edition is the Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival, taking over Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve from 4 to 12 January. As always, a diverse selection of film screenings will be complemented by interactive workshops, panel discussions, educational sessions for aspiring filmmakers, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Learn more here.
7 January: Accompany Clara
Orthodox Christmas Day brings with it a festive favourite as The Nutcracker arrives from Italy to Zabeel Theatre at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. A treat for the whole family, it’s brought to life by the Balletto Nazionale Italiano, pairing artistic ballet mastery with lavish costumes and magnificent stage sets to take you on a journey back in time to the beautifully nostalgic world of Clara and her beloved nutcracker doll. Learn more here.
10 January: Debate Human Dignity
Based on the well-known story of the book, a creative theatrical adaptation of The Elephant Man is coming to The Junction in Alserkal Avenue, exploring the universality of being different. It follows Joseph Merrick, an intelligent young man who dreams of being a hero, but the tumors on his face and arms make him a monster in the eyes of the outside world until the curious and compassionate Dr. Treves steps in. Learn more here.
11 January: Journey to Cuba
Transforming its stage into the lively streets of Havana, the Theatre of Digital Art is offering an immersive audio-visual journey that brings the heat of Cuba straight to Dubai. Enjoy an intimate, yet electrifying atmosphere as sizzling salsa beats and iconic tunes from legends like Buena Vista Social Club, Celia Cruz, and Polo Montañés are paired with an immersive show for a night unlike any other. Learn more here.
19 January: Snap Happy
You constantly take photos with your smartphone – now take them up a notch by attending the Smartphone Photography & Editing workshop at Gulf Photo Plus. The three-hour session will delve into essential camera controls, focus, and exposure lock in addition to teaching you the fundamentals of using light and shadow. Also included? How to develop a personal style, apps to conduct in-camera editing, and more. Learn more here.
20 January: Have a Laugh
Bid farewell to the January Blues as The Pub Landlord makes his return to Dubai. That’s right — Al Murray himself will take the stage at Dubai Opera for one night only, bringing with him freshly brewed material and razor-sharp observations for another round of his show, Guv Island. Learn more here.
24 January: Celebrate Robert Burns
Enjoy the festivities of Burns Night in grand Scottish style aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 — itself made and built on the banks of the famous Clyde. Here, Burns Night evening features a feast and lively entertainment steeped in Scottish heritage, the pipers of the Dubai Pipe Band and traditional Burns poetry followed by a Ceilidh after dinner included. Learn more here.
25 January: Support the Arts
The popular Quoz Arts Fest returns to Alserkal Avenue for two days of art, culture, food trucks, installations, and plenty of surprises. Like previous years, the upcoming 12th edition will also feature a series of musical talents — the likes of Big Hass, Omar Awbu, and House of Yanos are already confirmed. Learn more here.
30 January: Join the Community
Experience the city’s true spirit with the wholesome Dubai Souks and Creekside Food Walk hosted by Frying Pan Adventures. Hitting the back alleys of Old Dubai, you’ll indulge in nostalgic foods, stroll through the city’s storied bazaars, ride an abra across the creek, and hear the stories that most expats never do. Learn more here.
DSCVR: The DSCVR Culture Calendar for January
