Eid al-Adha is a mere weeks away, bringing with it another long weekend to enjoy. Of course, it’s always recommended to plan ahead as venues across the city book up – fast – around this festive holiday. Here, we round up a few fun options to consider.
Dubai Opera
Celebrate the Eid holiday by visiting Dubai Opera. Sitting in the heart of the Opera District in Downtown Dubai, this architectural wonder is host to several art and cultural events such as theatre performances, opera, ballet productions, concerts, conferences, and exhibitions. This 2,000-seater establishment has the unparalleled ability to transform into three different venue formats: a theatre, a concert hall, and an event hall, enabling it to host a wide variety of events.
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, 04 440 8888, dubaiopera.com

Ain Dubai
Take your long weekend to greater heights by visiting the Insta-famous Ain Dubai. View the Dubai skyline at 820 feet above ground in the daytime or during the evening. This enormous structure boasts air-conditioned cabin rooms that show 360-degree views of the city. Choose between shared and private cabins before tucking into a wide variety of delectable food and beverages.
Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island, 04 428 0411, aindubai.com
Green Planet
For a more family-friendly affair, take a drive down to Al Wasl and see the majestic wonders of nature at Green Planet. Home to more than 3,000 species of flora and fauna, this indoor ecosystem offers visitors an immersive tour of the jungle. Here, you can grab the opportunity to learn about birds, reptiles, sloths, and sugar gliders up close with an experienced guide. Once you and the family have explored its attractions, make a quick stop and refuel at the rainforest-themed café onsite.
Green Planet, City Walk, Al Wasl, 800 7699, greenplanet.com
Gevora Hotel
If you prefer a more laidback way to celebrate Eid, you’ll never go wrong with a staycation at one of the premier hotels in the city. Standing at 484 metres tall, Gevora Hotel holds the Guinness World Record for being the tallest hotel in the world. Our tip? Head up to the rooftop restaurant Highest View Lounge and order the always-popular T-bone steak, accented by views of the city, of course.
Gevora Hotel, 101 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Trade Centre, DIFC, 04 524 0000, gevorahotel.com

Motiongate
If you’re an avid fan of theme parks, head down to Dubai Parks and Resorts and visit Motiongate, where there’s always something for everyone. You can visit motion picture sets in real life, try extreme rides, enjoy the colourful parade, and more. Oh, and remember to drop by the merchandise store on your way out to see its wide selection of cool movie memorabilia.
Motiongate, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Rd, 04 820 0000, motiongate.com


