As the temperatures rise and we step into May, there’s a vibrant energy in the air – and with it, a whole new lineup of things to see, do, and experience across the UAE.

From brunches, gallery exhibitions, and exhilarating nights, May is shaping up to be anything but ordinary.

As always, GRAZIA rounds up the most exciting happenings to inspire your calendar this month.

a Floral Celebration of Protomagia

On Thursday, 1 May, GAIA Dubai brings the cherished Greek tradition of Protomagia to life, celebrating the arrival of Spring with a beautifully curated experience that honours nature, renewal, and togetherness. Guests are invited into a Mediterranean dream, where a floral atelier will bloom inside the restaurant. Delicate handmade stefania wreaths—symbols of prosperity and protection—will be crafted and gifted to each diner as a fragrant keepsake. This seasonal celebration captures the heart of Greek heritage, with floral touches, exquisite cuisine, and the warmth of GAIA hospitality. A tribute to life in full bloom.

Nad Al Sheba Mall Has Arrived

Say hello to Dubai’s newest lifestyle hub! Nad Al Sheba Mall is now open, bringing over 100 stores across fashion, fitness, beauty, dining, and more to the heart of the community. Think Home Bakery treats, % Arabica coffee breaks, a beauty top-up at Kiko, a chic wardrobe refresh at The Editors Market, or a quick workout before grabbing a Joe & The Juice smoothie. Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm on weekdays and until midnight on weekends –it’s your new go-to for everyday everything.

A Chic Sunday Lunch by the Sea

L’Amo Bistro Del Mare brings a taste of timeless Italian tradition to Dubai Harbour with Pranzo a L’Amo: Sunday Edition – a refined lunch experience filled with soulful flavours, live music, and coastal charm. From 1pm to 4pm, guests can unwind to the sounds of Tonya Caiazzo’s acoustic trio while enjoying a seasonal set menu by Executive Chef Alessandro Salvatico. Highlights include Angus Carpaccio, Gnocchetti Sardi, and Strawberry Soup with Vanilla Ice Cream, priced at Dhs325 per person. With curated Italian wines and signature cocktails, it’s an elegant escape that captures the heart of Italian Sundays.

A Cocktail Tour Around the World

Zuma Dubai and Abu Dhabi are shaking up your after-work plans with Zensekai – a new bar menu inspired by the brand’s global presence. Available exclusively on weekdays from 4 pm to 8 pm, the curated cocktail list pays homage to Zuma’s most iconic cities – including Bangkok, Rome, Miami, Cannes and Mykonos – with each drink paired perfectly with signature bites like black cod croquettes and octopus skewers. 

O Beach Dubai’s La Fiesta Is Back — Fridays Just Got Hotter

O Beach Dubai’s beloved Friday party, La Fiesta, returns this May with a bold new line-up and an even bigger vibe – now running from 11am to midnight. Inspired by Ibiza and reimagined for Dubai, the all-day experience blends sun-soaked lounging with night-time energy, world-class DJs, and signature O Beach entertainment. From 7 pm to 10 pm, enjoy a Dhs295 free-flow house beverage package, or go all out with party tables for Dhs3,000 (up to 8 guests). Expect aerial performers, confetti drops, and crowd interaction as headliners like Low Steppa, Todd Terry, and David Penn take over the decks. Whether you’re poolside, in a cabana, or dancing by the DJ, La Fiesta is your new Friday ritual.

Thomas Lélu Brings Wit and Whimsy to Dubai

Looking for a cheeky dose of culture this May? French artist Thomas Lélu has landed in Dubai with Calm Down It’s Just Art, his witty solo show at Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery. From “I have no idea what I’m doing out of bed” to “Sometimes all you need is $500 million dollars,” Lélu’s signature one-liners come to life in bold, thought-provoking pieces that are anything but ordinary.

Your Summer Glo-Up Starts Here

Consider this your official reminder: summer is coming, and the season of glowing skin and sun-kissed confidence starts now. Enter Salus Clinic, Dubai’s luxe destination for aesthetic excellence. From Profhilo to PRP, Morpheus8, Forma, Hydrafacials, and next-level mesotherapy, Salus takes a holistic, bespoke approach to your skin and body goals. Whether you’re prepping for travel or want to bring your skin back to life, their expert-led treatments promise to elevate your natural beauty.

Saturday Brunch Flair

If brunch is a Dubai ritual, Sucre DIFC is your Saturday sanctuary. Fusing bold Argentine roots with Mediterranean flair, Sucre’s fire-kissed brunch delivers drama and decadence on every plate. Think open-flame cooking, live DJs, percussionists, and a vibe that hits all the right notes. Brunch starts at Dhs370, but for real indulgence, go for the Dhs690 package featuring champagne curated by the in-house sommelier. Expect signature cocktails like the Espresso Martini and Tommy’s Margarita flowing from 1 pm till late. Chef Ivan Matejevic’s menu? Pure perfection.

The Pilates Princess Retreat

 Plume is an exclusive women-only wellness sanctuary where elegance meets strength. With its boutique reformer studio, private sessions, serene pool, sauna, and ice bath, this is the kind of self-care that feels like luxury. Tailored for the modern woman, its movement, mindfulness, and muscle-sculpting wrapped in a bow of pure chic. You’ll leave feeling stronger, sleeker, and seriously zen.

Tommy Hilfiger’s Reimagined Flagship at MOE

Style meets statement at the brand-new Tommy Hilfiger flagship store at Mall of the Emirates. The revamped space brings the essence of New York cool to Dubai, just in time for the launch of the SS25 collection. Expect elevated classics, modern tailoring, and a reimagined retail experience. Your new season wardrobe? Sorted.

a classic Sunday Roast

Sundays are sacred, and The Guild knows it. The DIFC hotspot has become a go-to for a Sunday roast, crafting an experience that’s both comforting and refined. Highlights include the slow-roasted lamb shoulder and roast beef striploin and for dessert, the apple and rhubarb crumble is exquisite. The full set menu is priced at Dhs275 every Sunday.

A Heavenly Escape

Tucked above the city skyline, The Spa at Waldorf Astoria DIFC is where tranquillity meets luxury. The experience? Suite-centric and ultra-tailored. From the Floatation Suite (hello, 600kg of Epsom salt) to the Couples Suite with quartz crystal massage beds and a hydro bath, this is spa therapy on another level. Book in for the Voya Marine Vitality Massage, where steaming seaweed poultices boost circulation and nourish the skin—and yes, you can take the poultices home to extend the benefits or water your plants. Self-care meets sustainability, naturally.

A new Bread Ahead branch

It’s a long-time fact that Bread Ahead is everyone’s go-to. Naturally, as one of the best places for pastries, with fan-favourite freshly baked doughnuts and a caffeine fix in the form of speciality coffee, it’s no surprise that they would soon open a third location in Dubai. Officially landing at the City Centre of Mirdif, Bread Ahead is surely taking over and expanding its foothold. It’s a sign to try out their signature specialities.

DINNER AT JOU JOU BRASSERIE, DRINKS AT MERCURY

Looking for a chic dinner and drinks locale that will impress your pals? Start with breezy Mediterranean vibes at Jou Jou Brasserie, tucked inside the ever-gorgeous Four Seasons Jumeirah. Share a few starters — you need the Sautéed White Prawns and Crisp Artichoke Salad in your life — then move on to the Lobster Fusilli or dreamy Pear and Ricotta Plin. Dessert? The Tiramisu is the only answer, drowned in fresh, frothy espresso and whipped up tableside. When you’re done, sashay upstairs to Mercury Rooftop for cocktails with a side of Burj Khalifa sparkle. Chic, laid-back and a guaranteed showstopper.

premium stand-up comedy at The Laugh Factory

Away from the seriousness and embracing humour, The Laughter Factory invites you to a week of entertainment with its premium comedy club. Taking place from May 16 to 24, 2025, you can expect a slew of notable names to arrive in Dubai to bring a little laughter to your weekend and weekday nights. From BBC host and arena comic Aaron Butler to British-Iranian Roxy Yekta, for Dhs250 you can expect a lively night filled with satire and complementary drinks.