Without really knowing how we got here (this year especially), we find ourselves in the month of October. After what felt like a long, hot summer, it feels like the city is waking up, and with that comes lots of things to look forward to.
From new venue openings to the return of the Dubai Fitness Challenge and our very own What’s On Nightlife Awards, here are 10 things to look forward to in Dubai this October…

The long-awaited Brass Monkey is finally opening its doors on Bluewaters Island on October 1. The venue is gigantic, with a 12-lane bowling alley, arcade, pool tables, two dining concepts and so much more. Even if you’re not there to play the games, Brass Monkey offers a lively atmosphere to eat, drink and socialise.
Brass Monkey, Bluewaters Island, Dubai, opening October 1, 2 pm to 1 am Sunday to Wednesday, 2 pm to 3 am Thursdays, 12 pm to 3 am Fridays, 12 pm to 1 am Saturdays, play cards start from Dhs100 and don’t expire. @brassmonkeysocial

Discover affordable art from international and regional galleries at World Art Dubai, which returns to Dubai from October 8 to 10. It takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre where works from artists around the world will be exhibited.
World Art Dubai, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, October 8 to 10. worldartdubai.com

A brand new rooftop pool, Missippi’s Pool Bar & Social Hub, is opening on Friday, October 9, and the new ‘urban oasis’ looks set to bring Bali, Tulum and Miami to Dubai. Expect wide, spacious cabanas dotted around the pool, lush greenery, and pastel hues in the colour scheme. The hot new venue is brought to you by huge event players, Candypants, and the team behind Cove Beach, LIVIT Hospitality Management group.
Missippi’s Pool Bar & Social Hub, Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai, opening October 9, 6 am until late.
Wane by SoMiya is the brand new pool club concept that has taken over space formerly occupied by Shades, on the fourth-floor terrace at the Address Dubai Marina. It caused a stir when huge (and we mean, huge) tiger and gorilla statues were helicoptered through Dubai Marina on September 13 to land at the poolside. It’s slated to officially open on October 15, and visitors can expect a totally new look with a cool jungle theme and a number of DJ’s on hand to provide the entertainment.
Wane by SoMiya, Address Dubai Marina, Dubai, open 8 am to 3 am daily. Tel: (052) 8844 879. @wanebysomiya

If your idea of the perfect day includes browsing for trinkets and handmade goods at a market, this one’s for you. The eternally popular Ripe Market returns to Dubai from October 16 and will open every weekend. You’ll find fresh produce, food trucks, artisanal stalls and entertainment.
The Ripe Market, Academic Park, Umm Sequeim, Fri 9 am to 7 pm, Sat 10 am to 7 pm, Oct 16 to May 1. @ripemarket

Need something to inspire a new fitness journey? The Mai Dubai City Half Marathon is taking place on October 23. Lace-up and join the city’s best runners at Downtown Dubai for this picturesque half marathon.
2 champion, 4 former champion, 4 title challengers. How do you like this card with full of killers. Best card of the year. #ufc254 pic.twitter.com/iVs2LRORWw
— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) September 2, 2020
Undefeated champ Khabib returns to the Octagon (and Abu Dhabi) to defend his belt against Justin Gaethje. The Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Justin Gaethje fight is something local fight fans will be getting very excited about.

The What’s On Nightlife Awards is back on Wednesday, October 28 and is taking place at the stunning White Beach at Atlantis, The Palm. We’ll be revealing the top movers and shakers from across the industry – and we want you there! There are 19 categories covering venues, events and individuals – Best Live Venue, Best Concert and Best Festival through to Best Local Band, Best DJ and Best International DJ Set. The categories recognise all the top people and places that make the UAE’s nightlife scene one of the best in the world.

Dubai Fitness Challenge is the citywide fitness movement that inspires Dubai residents to get up and get active. This year marks the fourth edition of the annual challenge which encourages residents to work out for 30 minutes every day for 30 days. A host of fitness classes and workouts will be held across the city, from October 30 to November 28.
Images: Provided/social
By Lauren Fletcher, Courtesy whatson.ae