Looking for weekend plans? From live performances and stand-up comedy to an Indian cultural festival, an open-mic competition and a beachside farm-to-table brunch, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have plenty happening this weekend.

Whether you want a big night out, a cultural experience or simply a relaxed meal by the sea, here are six events worth adding to your plans.

1. Laugh out loud with The Laughter Factory

Need an excuse to round up your friends and have a proper laugh? The Laughter Factory is bringing its August comedy tour to venues across Dubai, with five comedians taking the stage.

The lineup is led by British comedian and Paralympic medallist Ricky Balshaw, alongside American comedian Tevin Everett, UAE-based performers Abz Ali and Miqdaad Dohadwala, and Dubai comedian Andrea Brooks.

Expect plenty of jokes about relationships, expat life, cultural quirks and the everyday situations that somehow become comedy gold.

Where: Bla Bla by McGettigan’s, Radisson Damac Hills and Dukes, The Palm
When: August 13, 14 and 15
More information: thelaughterfactory.com

2. Lucky live on stage

Indian music fans have another reason to head to Coca-Cola Arena this weekend as singer, songwriter and actor Lucky Ali brings his distinctive sound to Dubai.

Known for his mellow vocals and storytelling style, Lucky Ali will perform some of the songs that have become favourites across generations, including O Sanam, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum and Safarnama.

It promises to be an evening packed with nostalgia, familiar melodies and plenty of sing-along moments.

Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
When: August 16
More information: www.coca-cola-arena.com

3. Celebrate India’s Independence 

If music, poetry and storytelling are more your scene, head to Alserkal Avenue for Chitthi Aayi Hai – A 3 Day Pitaara Festival.

Running from August 14 to 16, the festival brings together different strands of Indian cultural heritage, with each day offering its own programme of performances and experiences.

The lineup includes bhajan sessions, qawwali, ghazals, Sufi music, storytelling, Haveli Sangeet and poetry. Expect tributes to legendary figures such as Jagjit Singh, alongside works inspired by poets including Kabir and Amir Khusro.

It’s designed as a celebration of memories, heritage and the cultural traditions that continue to connect generations far from home.

Where: The Junction, Alserkal Avenue
When: August 14-16
More information: Call or WhatsApp +971 50 140 0430

4. Catch Usha Uthup, Benny Dayal and Thaikkudam Bridge live

For a high-energy night of South Indian music, make your way to Coca-Cola Arena on August 15.

Thaalam Beats brings playback singer Benny Dayal, music icon Usha Uthup and fusion band Thaikkudam Bridge together for one concert.

The show will move across genres and generations, combining popular hits with folk influences, contemporary sounds and energetic fusion performances.

The concert is also part of Dubai Summer Surprises, making it a solid option for music fans looking for a big night out.

Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
When: August 15
Tickets: Visit www.coca-cola-arena.com

5. Think you’ve got talent? Take the mic

Fancy seeing what happens when Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s emerging performers take centre stage?

The Spot’s Acts: On Air Live Competition is giving aspiring performers their moment in the spotlight this weekend.

The competition is open to singers, rappers, musicians, duos, solo performers and spoken-word artists. Twenty acts are set to perform this Saturday, with finalists returning the following day to compete for prizes.

Even if you’re not performing, it’s an easy weekend plan if you want to discover new local talent and support friends.

Where: The Spot, Manarat Al Saadiyat
When: August 15, 16
Entry: Dh17
More information: @ae.thespot

6. Have a farm-to-table brunch by the beach

Sometimes the best weekend plan involves doing considerably less.

For a relaxed Saturday afternoon, head to Safina Restaurant at Saadiyat Beach Club for a farm-to-table brunch built around locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

The spread features everything from fresh vegetable crudites and sushi to poached lobster and grilled meat and poultry.

Add the beachside setting to the mix, and you’ve got an easygoing Abu Dhabi weekend option for anyone who would rather eat, chat and enjoy the view than stick to a packed itinerary.

Where: Safina Restaurant, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 1pm-4pm
Contact: 02 656 3500