6 things to do in Dubai this weekend

Welcome weekend, we’ve missed you. It’s a throwback to the ’80s on Thursday, with live music from Spandau Ballet (and there are still tickets left). If you’d rather something from this decade, how about a pillow fight with Dada Life at Armani/Privé? It’s free entry if you dress as a banana. Friday brings one of the most hotly anticipated re-opening parties, as Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE throws open its doors. Get ready, it’s going to be a big one…

Thursday

Spandau Ballet Live in Dubai

Brits who came of age in the ‘80s will remember the new romantic sound of Spandau Ballet. Their fame stretched much further than the United Kingdom, with 23 hit singles around the world. There’s been much hype from fans of all different nationalities about the Dubai concert, and although premium VIP tickets are sold out, you can still get your hands on golden circle (AED450) and regular (AED300).
When: Thursday September 17
Where: World Trade Centre on Thursday September 17, doneevents.com

Dada Life

Swedish DJ duo Dada Life will take to the decks at Armani/Privé on for a pillow party, in what’s set to be a night full of their raucous antics. The North American’s have amassed a Dada Land cult following, as well as worldwide recognition for their electronic dance hits. Their biggest hits include “Rolling Stones T-Shirt”, “Happy Violence”, and “White Noise/Red Meat”, while their remixes of famous tunes such as “Big Bad Wolf” by Duck Sauce have become massive floor-fillers. Tickets cost AED200.
When: Thursday September 17
Where: Armani/Privé, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa,

Friday

Blue Marlin

Often copied, never matched, Blue Marlin is, to make a bold statement, one of the UAE’s favourite beach clubs. In fact, with the original in Cala Jondal, Ibiza, it’s one of the white isle’s favourite daytime haunts too. Having been closed for the last few months, the final indication that summer is over comes with Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE’s opening party this Friday. Get all the details, including the line-up, here.
When: Friday September 18
Where: Ghantoot Al Jazira Hotel, +971 56 113 3400, 

Rugby World Cup

The Rugby World Cup is about to kick off, and Dubai bars are gearing up for the crowds. Big screens and deals on food and drink will make it well worth leaving the comfort of your sofa. Visit our ShortList of places to watch #RWC2015 live.
When: From Friday September 18
Where: Various.

Saturday

Sports Brunch Club at Vantage

Watching live sports with an a la carte brunch menu? Now this is a concept that we can get on board with. Entertainment comes in the form of two plasma screens and two wide screens, with plenty of burgers grilled meats and light bites. Drinks include craft hops and old fashioned beverages. From AED179 inclusive of food and beverages.
When: Saturday September 19
Where: Vantage, Sheraton,

Visit Book Munch Café

For bibliophiles, there’s nothing more relaxing better than a hot drink and a good book to bury your nose into. That was the idea when a café was opened alongside the Book Munch Bookshop. After exploring shelves of fiction and non-fiction for their preferred slice of literary magic, book lovers can recline in the café and enjoy coffee, tea, mocktails and homemade ice tea. The café also serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and a hearty selection of sweet treats for those who lose track of time, plus picnic baskets complete with rugs for those who’d rather recline on the grass in the nearby Safa Park.
Where: See website for opening times.
Where: Al Wasl Square, Jumeirah, www.bookmunchcafe.com