Every day, Dubai throws a million things at you. We just pick the ones that feel worth it (at least to us), so you don’t get lost in the chaos. This week, it is everything from cinema nights and art shows to new spots, book sales (by the way, the world's biggest one), and parties — a mix of what to see, taste, and experience in the city right now.

Where? Cinema Akil

...to watch DAYE! Directed by Karim El-Shenawy, this heartfelt drama follows 14-year-old Daye, a Nubian albino with a golden voice, who, despite bullying and family struggles, dreams of auditioning for The Voice. A story about resilience, identity, and the power of music.

Choose the time that works best for you: 7:00 pm or 9:15 pm.

Where? Sana, Jumeirah Madinat, Jumeirah Mina Al Salam — Jumeira St — Al Sufouh 1

The Uzbek restaurant Sana! They proudly describe themselves as “30 years of Uzbek culinary heritage, inspired by the Silk Road.”

You should definitely check it out — and then tell us what you think!

Where? Efie Gallery

Until October 10, Efie Gallery at Alserkal Avenue presents time heals, just not quick enough…, a group exhibition curated by Ose Ekore. Bringing together works by Samuel Fosso, Aïda Muluneh, Kelani Abass, Abeer Sultan, and Sumayah Fallatah, the show explores how time, memory, and healing resist linear narratives, unfolding instead in layers of rupture, delay, and transformation.

Through photography and film, the artists weave together themes of identity, diaspora, and resilience — from Fosso’s iconic self-portraits to Muluneh’s symbolic imagery, Sultan’s mythopoetic geographies, Abass’s tactile reflections on history, and Fallatah’s deeply personal explorations of memory. The exhibition invites viewers to slow down, linger, and consider time not as closure but as an ongoing process of becoming.

Where? Graffiti Dubai, Al Quoz

For those who have been overworked at the office. Graffiti Dubai’s legendary Mad Room is the ultimate stress-busting escape. Forget rules and routines — here you can splash neon paint across walls, floors, canvases, or even your own t-shirt. It is messy, colourful, and wildly freeing.

Whether you want to blow off steam after a long week, unleash your inner child, or just laugh with friends while making a glorious mess, the Mad Room has you covered. Sessions include all the paint and gear you need, with prices starting at AED 210 per person. Bring your old clothes, dive into the chaos, and walk out lighter, brighter, and maybe with your own messy masterpiece.

Where? Mama Shelter

Mama Shelter will host a special night of music on October 4.

The lineup features:

— Halawa, a local DJ known for eclectic sets

— Feda, a Milano-based DJ and producer, is introducing fresh sounds to Dubai

Doors open at 10.

Where? Ajman, Youth X HUB

For the first time ever, the world’s biggest book sale comes to Ajman, hosted at Youth X HUB under the patronage of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development. Running until October 5, the 11-day event features more than 250,000 books with discounts of up to 90% — from global bestsellers like Atomic Habits and The Man Who Died Twice to children’s titles, cookbooks, and timeless classics.

Beyond the shelves, visitors can enjoy pop-up shops, food trucks, and F&B stalls, making it a full family-friendly day out. Special activities include a chance to win an iPhone 17 Pro with purchases over AED 300, plus lucky draws for media attendees.

Since its founding in 2009, Big Bad Wolf has toured over 50 cities in 17 countries. Its Ajman edition marks a new chapter in the UAE, celebrating reading as accessible, affordable, and inspiring for all.

Yes, nothing. Monday is Monday.