We know how expensive weekends in the UAE can get; here are a few free ways to enjoy the weekend.
500 free lunches on Thursday
To celebrate the opening of Pret A Manger’s first shop at The Dubai Mall, Pret is giving away 500 free lunches to customers on Thursday 22 February, between 12pm to 2pm. The lunches are available to the first 500 customers in the queue. You could get a sandwich or salad, a snack item and a hot or cold beverage if you are one of the first 500 through their doors on Thursday.
Location Pret A Manger, Dubai Mall Cost 500 free lunches Date February 22 (12pm to 2pm)
Weekends at the Oasis
As part of Al Ain’s ongoing calendar of cultural activities and events organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi, the Weekends at the Oasis programme returns to Al Ain Oasis on February 23 and 24. This time around, the theme is 1980’s and visitors can experience a ‘journey through time’ with a variety of activities and workshops for all ages.
The new programme includes interactive arts and crafts workshops for children, food trucks and live cooking stations, and a collections corner where visitors can look through a variety of pictures and collectibles from Al Ain.
Location Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain Cost Free Dates February 23 and 24 Timings 2pm to 11pm
Etisalat Beach Canteen
The Etisalat Beach Canteen opens to the public on Thursday and we had a sneak peek. If you're dying to see what they have, head to our Instagram page @gulfnews to watch the stories of our food exploits. We also have a detailed guide on the event here and it's free to attend!
90-minute Hatha Yoga sessions
Join a free Yoga Weekend offering 7 full spectrum or (90 minute) Hatha Yoga classes. Hatha yoga is considered perfect for beginners and yogis alike – so if you’re looking to start afresh, or get some meditative stretch time, head to Inspire Yoga Pilates and Fitness.
Location Inspire Yoga Pilates and Fitness Cost Free (bring your own towels and water) Reserve your space Only 15 per class to ensure a wholesome experience Dates Feb 22, 23 and 24 Timings Feb 22 – 6pm to 7.30pm Feb 23 and 24 – 1pm to 2.30pm, 3pm to 4.30pm and 5pm to 6.30pm More details
Free dental check-up
We all know how expensive routine dental check-ups can be, especially when your health insurance may not cover it. This weekend we found you a free dental check-up event in Dubai. Only the check-up is covered, any follow-ups or treatment is payable.
Location Suite 207 in Karama Centre, Karama, Dubai Cost Free dental check-up Date February 23 Timings 10am to 9pm (contact clinic directly for personal queries) Website
Free open-air cinema
Starting this weekend (February 22) the food truck destinations Last Exit E11 and Last Exit Mad X will be screening movies under the stars in a cosy open-air cinema pop-up sponsored by Roxy Cinema. Registration is not required and the movies are free of charge. Ample parking is also available at the venue. Read our ultimate guide to find out which movies are playing when.
Location Last Exit E11 is on Shaikh Zayed Road (Southbound) and the Last Exit Mad X is on Shaikh Zayed Road (Northbound) Dates Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 22 February to 10 March Timings Session 1 at 6pm, Session 2 at 8pm and Session 3 at 10.45pm
Free group workout in Dubai
Switch DXB and Uplift ME are hosting a group workout this Friday. It is free of charge and the only cost you pay is a penalty (not in burpees we hope) if you wear any colour other than white. The only rule is to wear a white t-shirt to the workout. You also will need to carry your own water bottle and towel.
So we know these movies aren't free to see, but we couldn't leave without giving you our top movie recommendations for the weekend.
