What Is the Weekend in Dubai?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, one of the most important things to consider is the weekend. In Dubai, the weekend is a little different from what you might be used to in other parts of the world.

When Is the Weekend in Dubai?

The weekend in Dubai falls on Friday and Saturday. This means that Friday is a day off for most workers, and Saturday is also considered part of the weekend. Sunday is a regular working day.

Why Is the Weekend on Friday and Saturday?

The reason for this unusual weekend schedule has to do with Islam. Friday is considered the holy day for Muslims, and it’s also when Jummah prayers take place. Since Islam is the official religion in Dubai, it makes sense that Friday is considered a day off.

Saturday became part of the weekend in the 1990s when Dubai began to develop as an international business hub. Many Western companies have their weekends on Saturday and Sunday, so including Saturday as part of the weekend made it easier for these companies to do business with Dubai.

What Can You Do During the Weekend in Dubai?

Despite its unusual schedule, there are plenty of things to do during the weekend in Dubai. Here are some ideas:

Visit a Beach

Dubai has some stunning beaches, and spending time by the water is a popular pastime during the weekend. Some notable beaches include Jumeirah Beach, Kite Beach, and Black Palace Beach.

Explore Local Markets

Dubai has many markets where you can find everything from spices to textiles to souvenirs. Some popular markets include the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk.

Take a Desert Safari

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a desert safari during your weekend in Dubai. You’ll get to ride camels, go sandboarding, and experience the beauty of the desert.

Visit a Theme Park

Dubai has several theme parks that are perfect for families. These include Dubai Parks and Resorts, Motiongate Dubai, and IMG Worlds of Adventure.

  • Dubai Parks and Resorts is home to several theme parks, including LEGOLAND Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai.
  • Motiongate Dubai has rides and attractions based on popular movies like Ghostbusters and The Hunger Games.
  • IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park in the world.

Attend a Brunch

Brunch is a popular activity during the weekend in Dubai. Many restaurants offer brunch menus with unlimited food and drinks. Some notable brunch spots include The Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach, La Cantine du Faubourg, and Bubbalicious at The Westin.

In Conclusion

The weekend in Dubai may be a little different from what you’re used to, but it’s still packed with fun activities to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring local markets or riding roller coasters at a theme park, there’s something for everyone during the weekend in Dubai. So why not plan your next trip to this exciting city today?