Things to do in the UAE this weekend that come with prizes of up to Dh13,000.
Looking for weekend plans that offer more than just a day out? Several events across the UAE are giving visitors the chance to walk away with exciting rewards, including AirPods, Ray-Ban sunglasses, gold bars, shopping vouchers and even a brand-new car.
Whether you’re solving riddles in Abu Dhabi or enjoying a family day out in Dubai, here are some of the best events to check out this weekend.
1. Hunt for hidden keys and win prizes worth more than Dh13,000
If you enjoy a good treasure hunt, Rowley’s Abu Dhabi is transforming Yas Bay into a giant outdoor game this Friday.
The Rowley’s Yas Bay Key Hunt kicks off on July 17, challenging participants to find one of 12 hidden keys concealed across two secret locations in Yas Bay. At 6pm, cryptic clues will be posted on the restaurant’s Instagram Stories, while registered participants will receive maps highlighting the designated search areas.
Those lucky enough to find a key can unlock a share of prizes worth more than Dh13,000, including AirPods, Ray-Ban sunglasses, Polaroid cameras, Yas Bay Annual Passes, complimentary meals at Rowley’s, Red Tail memberships and the sought-after Birthday Steak Pass. Participation is free with prior registration.
2. Meet Cocomelon favourites — and stand a chance to win a car
Families can head to Arabian Center, where Cocomelon favourites JJ and Cody will make surprise appearances throughout the weekend.
Children can meet the popular characters, pose for photos and enjoy a range of family-friendly activities, including slime-making workshops, storytelling sessions, face painting, and arts and crafts. The summer activation runs daily until August 2, making it an ideal indoor outing during the school holidays.
While shopping, keep your receipts. As part of Dubai Summer Surprises, shoppers can enter a digital raffle for the chance to win one of 10 Exceed LX cars, alongside enjoying seasonal promotions and live entertainment across the mall.
3. Spend Dh200 in Sharjah and enter to win gold bars
If you’re heading to Sharjah this weekend, the Sharjah Summer Promotions 2026 campaign is offering discounts of up to 75% at participating retailers, hotels and restaurants.
Shoppers who spend Dh200 or more can enter digital raffles to win gold bars, shopping vouchers, and later in the campaign, a luxury car. More than 700 prizes will be awarded throughout the summer, with the next major draw scheduled for August 1.
4. Put your trivia knowledge to the test
For a more laid-back Friday evening, head to Urban Bar Deli at Edge by Rotana, DAMAC Hills 2, where the weekly Quiz Night offers teams the chance to compete for a range of prizes while enjoying food and drink deals.
Prizes include:
- A one-night hotel stay with breakfast for two
- Dinner for two at Urban Bar Deli
- Breakfast for two at Urban Bar Deli
Held every Friday, the quiz night promises an evening of trivia, friendly competition and entertainment, whether you’re aiming to win or simply enjoy a fun night out.
5. Enjoy free entertainment across Dubai
If shopping isn’t on your agenda, Dubai Summer Surprises is hosting a variety of free attractions across the city.
Visitors can catch pop-up performances at shopping malls, explore Modesh World at the Dubai World Trade Centre, visit the K-Pop Demon Hunters pop-up at City Centre Mirdif, or join the Dubai Mallathon, which transforms selected malls into air-conditioned walking and running tracks.
6. Experience Michael Jackson’s greatest hits live
Music fans can round off the weekend at Coca-Cola Arena on Saturday, July 18, with Michael Lives Forever, a tribute concert celebrating the King of Pop.
The show recreates some of Michael Jackson’s most iconic performances, featuring hits such as Beat It, Thriller, Smooth Criminal and Dangerous. Tickets start from Dh125.
