Things to do this week include new beach park for dogs and Trevor Noah taking to stage at the Etihad Arena
The UAE events calendar is ending February on a high note with a variety of big-ticket affairs this week.
South African comedian Trevor Noah is set for a UAE return and petrolheads are in for a wild ride at this year’s Custom Show Emirates.
Here, The National rounds up seven things to do between today and Sunday.
Today
Baby Sensory UAE, which has several branches in Dubai, is opening its first studio in Abu Dhabi at Khalidiyah Mall today.
The centre is known for its science-backed programme for babies and toddlers, including sensory and play sessions that help development, from motor skills to socio-emotional capabilities.
The first 30 customers today will receive a buy-one-get-one-free offer, while other parents can choose from discounted packages that start at Dh500 for five sessions.
▶ More information is available at www.babysensory.ae
Tomorrow
Chocolate connoisseurs can head to the newly opened ChocoGelateria boutique in Dubai.
Luxury chocolatier Venchi is behind the cafe, which focuses on Italian chocolate craftsmanship and gelato artistry. Guests can sample treats in a variety of shapes, sizes and flavours, including those in Venchi’s Chocoviar collection, which adorns the wall of the venue.
The boutique also has a cascading chocolate waterfall on site, plus 90 ice cream and sorbet flavours from Tuscan cream to lychee, gourmet coffees, flavoured hot chocolate and crepes.
▶ Daily, 10am-11pm; Dubai Mall; 04 297 4839
Wednesday
Comedian Trevor Noah will be performing at Etihad Arena on Wednesday. The South African performer is known for his wit and sharp observations. As well as being an Emmy winner, he was named one of the most influential people in the world in 2018 by Time magazine.
He was in Dubai last year for his sold-out Off The Record show, which he is now bringing to the capital.
▶ Wednesday; doors open at 6.30pm; from Dh350; Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; www.ticketmaster.ae
Thursday
The dog-friendly Dubai Islands Beach is now home to a dedicated park.
As well as swimming, dogs can enjoy on-site amenities, including a ramp, agility seesaw, obstacle course with slalom poles, as well as hoops and beams set across the 460-square-metre space.
The park also includes a dog waste bin and dispenser, as well as a shower and drinking fountain for pets.
▶ Daily, 8am-6pm; free to enter; Dubai Islands Beach; @dubaiislandsbeach
Friday
The 10-day Big Bad Wolf book sale begins on Friday at Sound Stages, Dubai Studio City.
More than two million titles of various genres will be on offer, with discounts of up to 75 per cent. Visitors can browse through an extensive display of books, including bestsellers, children’s titles, graphic novels and self-help guides. This year, there will be a focus on non-fiction business books for seasoned professionals or budding entrepreneurs.
▶ Friday to March 10; 10am-midnight; free; Sound Stages, Dubai Studio City; @bigbadwolf.uae
Saturday
Pieces by Indian designer Varun Bahl will be on display at The Collective in Dubai.
Bahl is known for blending handcrafted embroidery with experimental silhouettes and working with floral patterns.
He has previously joined international fashion shows and created outfits for Bollywood stars such as
Madhuri Dixit Nene and Karisma Kapoor.
Friday and Saturday; 10am-8pm; free to enter; SO/ Uptown, Jumeirah Lakes Towers; @thecollective.dubai
Sunday
Petrolheads will find some of the city’s most alluring vehicles at Expo City Dubai.
The Custom Show Emirates will feature modified bikes, sedans and 4x4s as well as a lineup of high-octane activities such as drifting, stunt driving and live customisations.
Friday to Sunday; 10am-10pm; from Dh90 for a single-day pass; Expo City Dubai; www.dubai.platinumlist.net