7 things to do in Dubai this weekend

It’s a weekend for foodies as Dubai Food Festival brings us Dubai Restaurant Week (where some of the city’s best-loved restaurants slash their prices) and Eat The World DXB which sees food trucks gather in Burj Park. In between meals, there’s also superstar action at the men’s Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, and one of electronic music’s favourite DJs is flying in for 2016’s first DXBeach.

Duty Free Tennis Championships
Now that the women have had their fun in the Dubai sun-slash-rain, it’s the turn of the men. Novak Djokovic is the clear favourite to win this week, especially as none of the other so-called “big four” are here – what with Rafael Nadal playing the “golden swing” in South America, Roger Federer missing through injury and Andy Murray staying at home with his new-born daughter. Although it’s no gimme for the Serb – no tennis match ever is – the most intriguing plotlines will be served by those looking to get one over on the greatest player in the world right now. In fact, although Djokovic has won here four times, he hasn’t lifted the trophy since 2013, losing last year’s final to Roger Federer. So there is a least a glimmer of hope for the players listed here.
When: February 22-27
Where: Dubai Tennis Stadium, Garhoud,

Tiesto at DXBeach
Zero Gravity’s sprawling 2,000 square-metre pool expansion is getting the big reveal this weekend and, in conjunction with the return of the venue’s day/night beach parties for 2016, they have flown in Dutch superstar DJ Tiesto to help everyone celebrate. One of the biggest and most popular DJs in the world right now, he has evolved from his trance forte to play more eclectic sets across the EDM spectrum – and he has been a regular visitor to the region over the last decade. AED275 for regular tickets or AED400 for poolside access.
When: February 26
Where: Zero Gravity, Dubai Marina,

The Short Term 12
The film that first underlined Brie Larson’s talent focuses on a foster-care facility for at-risk teenagers. Amid the challenges of providing a home for these kids, Grace (Larson) is preparing for her wedding – which threatens to change the home’s equilibrium.
When: February 25, 7pm
Where: The Scene Club, Knowledge Village, www.thesceneclub.com

Dubai Restaurant Week
Dubai Food Festival kicks off on February 25, and it’s bringing a brand new event which will definitely please the city’s foodies. Until March 5, you’ll be able to enjoy a three-course set menu at some of the city’s best loved restaurants for just AED189. Participating restaurants include, Boca, Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, Café Belge, Fogueira, Junoon, JW’s Steakhouse, Mint Leaf of London, Okku and The Ivy.
When: From February 25
Where: Various. For bookings visit www.roundmenu.com/DRW

Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE
DJ Kenny Glasgow is back at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE to headline this weekend’s day-to-night beach party. You may remember him as one half of DJing duo Art Department, who were BM regulars. He’s joined on the terrace by Scottish DJ Jackmaster, who has climbed to star status on the world’s clubbing scene over the past few years.
When: Friday February 26
Where: Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE, +971 56 113 3400, 

Eat the World DXB
The food-truck fad has already hit Dubai but it will get another major boost with the arrival of the best mobile kitchens London has to offer. Fifteen of the British capital’s best food trucks have made the 7,000-kilometre journey to Dubai’s (increasingly interesting) Burj Park, where they’ll join 12 local food trucks to form the city’s biggest food court. One of them is The Roadery owned by Dan Shearman. We asked him what we can expect.
When: February 25-27
Where: Burj Khalifa, www.tixbox.com/event/eat_the_world_dxb