Let’s admit it: most of us put a lot less spotlight on Father’s Day as compared to the other holidays. It’s an often-overlooked but nonetheless special day that celebrates father figures everywhere, so make your dad feel valued with one (or more!) of these fun ways.
Be a Sport
The month of June comprises some of the biggest sporting events of the year, so shout your support for dad’s favourite team at one of Dubai’s best sports bars. Kickers Sports Bar, conveniently located at Dubai Sports City, has TV screens on every wall so that audiences at this cool joint never miss a spectacular moment of action.
Kickers Sports Bar, Football Zone, Sports Village, Dubai Sports City, 04 448 1001, kickerssportsbar.ae
Make a Splash
If your dad is up for an adventure in the city, take him to a waterpark! Dubai boasts a great number of options that perfect for some well-deserved family time. Aquaventure at Atlantis the Palm features a wide array of slides and thrill rides perfect for beginners and adrenaline junkies alike. Let your dad show off his valour at its most popular attraction: the Leap of Faith. This slide has an 18-metre vertical drop sure to keep the blood pumping. Aquaventure also offers group attractions such as the Aquacondo and Zoomerango that the family can enjoy together.
Aquaventure, Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, 04 426 0000, atlantis.com
Take a Ride
Another great way to spend dad’s special day is by taking him on a jetski tour around the city. Treat him to two exciting hours of fun as he takes in the gorgeous views around Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, and Bluewaters Island while he glides through the turquoise waters of Dubai with his very own personal watercraft.
Ride in Dubai, Jumeirah 4, Al Fintaas St. Fishing Harbor, rideindubai.com, 052 714 2600
Catch a Flick
For the laid-back dads out there, you can’t go wrong with a classic night of entertainment at the movies. Spoil your dad with tickets to the latest action flick – or two – with VOX Cinema’s exclusive ticket offers. Look through its list of partnered banking establishments and avail movie tickets for half the price.
VOX Cinemas, 600 599 905, uae.voxcinemas.com
Journey East
Celebrate this special day by treating the family to a scrumptious feast of Asian-American fusion dishes. Han Shi Fu at Aloft Dubai Creek is a gem in the heart of the city, offering traditional yet innovative flavours reminiscent of the most popular dishes in Taipei, Hong Kong, Shanghai, New York, and Los Angeles. Here, the menu boasts a wide array of dim sum, entrees, alcoholic beverages, and more in its well-curated unlimited and à la carte menus.
Han Shi Fu, Aloft City Centre, Deira, 04 228 1075, @hanshifudxb
Check In
Experience the wonders of being a tourist in your own town by booking a staycation for the family. It’s a great weekend activity, perfect for dads in need of a little R&R. It’s also an easy way to escape the city grind without the stress of travelling. Bonus: you can up your gifting game by booking a well-deserved full-body massage for your dad.
Browse some of our favourite staycation spots here.
Shop Savvy
Take your dad shopping for great staple pieces for his wardrobe, trading in his old and worn-out shirts during a fun day of mall-hopping at Dubai’s many shopping destinations. Oh, and be sure to watch out for amazing promotions during the Dubai Summer Surprises usually happening right around June – just in time for Father’s Day!
Learn more about countrywide shopping events here.
Cut ‘N’ Shave
Make a huge difference to your dad’s grooming routine by treating him to a luxurious shave at 1847. This establishment is one of the Middle East’s most exclusive men’s grooming lounges, dedicated to providing premium services from haircuts to facials and more at its 12 locations across Dubai. Give your dad the pampering he deserves and book him in for the comprehensive ‘Murdock London’ shave, 1847’s signature service.
1847, 2nd Floor, Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall, 800 1847, [email protected]
Escape the City
Looking to treat an outdoorsy dad? Go sightseeing in Dubai’s deserts by joining a safari tour, which you can easily customise by choosing from a number of fun activities – dune bashing, quad biking, and buggy riding included. Have your dad immerse in the culture while experiencing the endless thrills that the desert has to offer. Win-win.
Desert Safari Tours, 055 735 5443, [email protected]