Dubai’s Unmissable Outdoor Experiences

Ain Alalam – Rashad Iskandrni

Dubai’s energetic outdoor season has begun, meaning it’s officially time to get outside and enjoy the most anticipated time of the year.

As the cooler air sweeps the city, there are even more outdoor activities to enjoy than ever before. From big-name concerts to hikes in the mountains and shopping at Global Village, the options are endless. Not forgetting that in January, e& MOTB, Dubai’s hugely popular outdoor market and part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, returns, bringing live entertainment, exclusive retail offers, and world-class dining to Dubai Design District (D3). So there’s a whole host of outdoor activities to choose from.

With clear skies and cooler days, here are 7 of the best outdoor activities to take part in during Dubai’s winter season.

Global Village

One of Dubai’s most beloved and iconic outdoor attractions is set to celebrate a landmark year as it opens for its 30th season. The famous gates reopened for the new season on October 15, and this year promises to be bigger and better than any other. Guests can expect 40,500 shows, more than 3,500 shopping outlets, and over 250 superb dining attractions serving up delicious dishes from around the world. Global Village has been one of Dubai’s biggest attractions, with residents and tourists visiting the park to experience the multicultural vibes from over 30 nations.

Find out more here: https://www.globalvillage.ae/en/

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)

The world’s longest-running retail festival returns for its largest edition yet, running from 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026. While the mega discounts at more than 800 retailers are a major draw, DSF is a complete citywide celebration. Families can look forward to nightly fireworks displays and incredible drone shows lighting up the skyline, as well as top performances from regional and international artists. A major highlight is e& MOTB, Dubai’s ultimate outdoor market at Dubai Design District (D3), a vibrant festival celebrating Gen Z culture through creative arts, food, and style.

Find out more here: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dsf-etisalat-motb

Untold Dubai

The world’s biggest DJs, including Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix, Steve Aoki and J Balvin, are heading to Dubai for a four-day festival of music and energy. The mega festival is returning to Dubai for the second year in a row and this time it’s transforming Dubai Parks and Resorts into the ultimate festival of fun. Not only are the world’s best artists lighting up the stages with unmissable performances, but for four days and four nights, guests also have access to the world’s best rides and attractions across four incredible theme parks.

Find out more here: www.untold.ae

Sole DXB

Widely regarded as one of the Middle East’s coolest events of the year, Sole DXB is the region’s leading street-culture festival. Live performances from hip-hop artists and DJ sets will be running throughout the three-day event, which also includes sports tournaments and in-depth panel discussions around the hottest topics in fashion, music, and sport. Sole DXB brings together designers, sneakerheads, and creatives from around the world to deliver the region’s much-loved extravaganza. It’s one event not to miss.

Find out more here: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/sole-dxb

Terra Solis

Dubai is home to a plethora of luxury retreats, but none are as unique as this delightful desert escape. There are 48 world-class tents and 20 lodges with six poolside cabins making up the destination, which is the perfect place to spend the winter days. This desert getaway is also home to some of Dubai’s most energetic concerts, with Tomorrowland bringing some of the world’s best artists to the Terra Solis stage. Live music runs from September through to October and is among the liveliest nights you could experience in Dubai during the winter season.

Find out more here: www.terrasolisdubai.com

Explore Hatta

Winter season means getting out and exploring, and there’s no better place to do that than in the mountains of Hatta. Located near the border of Oman, the small town in the Hajar Mountains is home to some of Dubai’s most picturesque scenery. Not only is it an ideal spot for family outings, but it’s also great for some outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, mountain biking and ziplining. After a day of exploring, unwind in Hatta’s luxury glamping pods or unique domes with private plunge pools, offering a luxurious and comfortable way to connect with nature.

Find out more here: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/articles/ultimate-guide-to-hatta

Stargazing

As well as Dubai’s winter months being cooler, the clouds also completely disappear, which means the night sky comes alive with planets and stars. Far away from the hustle and bustle of the city is the Starlight Camp, a 45-minute drive into the Arabian Desert. Here, the team provides all you need for a nighttime excursion that you’ll never forget. The crystal-roof tents give you the perfect view of the stars, while bonfires keep you warm throughout the night. Food is served from the fully equipped BBQ, and there’s even a dining trailer and other amenities, giving you an experience to cherish.

Find out more here: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/articles/glamping-in-dubai