February is off to a busy start, with a combination of food, music, fitness and family-friendly events. The annual UAE Swat Challenge will take place in Dubai during the first half of the week, while families in Abu Dhabi can check out a wellness retreat at Jebel Hafeet as the weekend arrives.
Here, we round up seven things to do around the Emirates, from February 3 to 9.
Monday, February 3: Kokoro x Hattem Mattar
Head to the recently opened Nad Al Sheba branch of Kokoro, a hand roll bar that also has an outpost in Alserkal Avenue. The restaurant has teamed up with Arab pitmaster Hattem Mattar to offer limited-time dishes such as brisket nigiri, pastrami gunkan, brisket hand roll and pastrami hand roll.
Until February 5; 2pm-11.30pm; The Square, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai
Tuesday, February 4: Dubai Police Swat Challenge
Head out to Al Ruwayyah for Dubai Police's UAE Swat Challenge, where teams from all over the world are going head-to-head in contests ranging from assault courses to officer rescue challenges. The event is open to the public and spectators can expect exhilarating demonstrations, parades by police units and a variety of food and drinks pop-ups. There is also an e-sports area, and guests can drop into the Dubai Police Museum to find out more about its history.
Until February 5; 8am onwards; free entry; Al Ruwayyah, Dubailand; uaeswatchallenge.com
Wednesday, February 5: Sweeney Todd musical
Theatre fans can check out Sweeney Todd at Dubai Opera. The story follows the titular character, also known as the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, and his story of vengeance. The dark thriller-comedy musical made its debut on Broadway in 1979, and combines dramatic themes with the haunting melodies of Stephen Sondheim.
Until February 8; various timings; from Dh350; Dubai Opera; 04 440 8888
Thursday, February 6: The Corrs concert
Book a ticket for a nostalgic performance by The Corrs at Coca-Cola Arena. Made up of siblings Andrea, Sharon, Caroline and Jim, the Irish band blend pop-rock with traditional Celtic music. Concertgoers can expect to sing along to classics such as Runaway from their debut album Forgiven, Not Forgotten, and other fan favourites such as I Never Loved You Anyway and So Young.
February 6; doors open 8pm; from Dh195; Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai; 800 223388
Friday, February 7: Magic Box by Disney
Disney fans can catch a show of The Magic Box at Etihad Arena. The musical extravaganza combines Disney classics and contemporary hits to tell a new story. Expect whimsical stage sets, colourful costumes and talented actors performing songs such as Let It Go from Frozen, Under The Sea from The Little Mermaid, and Be Our Guest from Beauty and the Beast. More than 75 beloved songs will feature in the show.
February 7 to 15; various timings; from Dh150; Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; 600 511115
Saturday, February 8: Jebel Hafit wellness event
Pura Eco Retreat in Jebel Hafit Desert Park is hosting a festival-style wellness event, featuring fun activities for the family including yoga, Zumba and skateboarding. There are also scenic hikes in the mountainous setting and trail runs for adrenalin seekers.
Children's activities range from life-size games to orienteering challenges. Wellness workshops such as clay meditation and sound therapy are also on the agenda. Guests can pay extra for a barbecue dinner in the evening.
February 9; 6am-10pm; from Dh70 per person for a half-day pass; Jebel Hafit Desert Park, Abu Dhabi
Sunday, February 9:
Italian restaurant Roberto's is bringing back its 2012 dishes – and prices – in a throwback to its early days in the UAE. Before making its foray into Dubai, the restaurant first opened at Rosewood Hotel on Abu Dhabi's Al Maryah Island, an outpost that has since shut down. The discounted menu includes classics such as beef carpaccio, vitello tonnato and saffron risotto. The meal is accompanied by a throwback playlist and live DJ sets.
Every Sunday; noon-midnight; Gate Village 1, Dubai International Financial Centre; 04 386 0066
