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Top things to do in October

Explore the best things to do in the region this month, from live concerts and fighting championships to wellness festivals and sporting events


Matilda – The Musical

🗓 October 3 - 12, 2023 📍Dubai, United Arab Emirates

This multi-award-winning musical, inspired by Roald Dahl's beloved book, is coming to Dubai Opera this October. Scripted by Dennis Kelly and featuring original music composed by Tim Minchin, Matilda – The Musical will see the Royal Shakespeare Company bring to life the story of an extraordinary little girl as she dares to change her own destiny with her vivid imagination and sharp mind.


To book your hotel in Dubai, visit rotana.com


NBA Abu Dhabi Games

🗓 October 5 and 7, 2023 📍Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Last year’s history-making NBA debut in the Middle East saw the Atlanta Hawks take on the 2021 champions Milwaukee Bucks in Abu Dhabi’s first-ever pre-season NBA match. Shaquille O’Neal, Dominique Wilkins, Isaiah Thomas, Chris Bosh and Vince Carter were among the legendary names in attendance. The games are now set to return for a second edition in the UAE capital. Taking place at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, this year's event will see the Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves playing two preseason games.


To book your hotel in Abu Dhabi, visit rotana.com


Amman Marathon

🗓 October 13, 2023 📍Amman, Jordan

Jordan's annual Amman Marathon features a 42-kilometre marathon, a 21-kilometre half marathon, a 10-kilometre race and a fun four-kilometre run for junior athletes. The routes pass through the heart of Amman's downtown district, providing runners with an up-close view of some of the capital's most important landmarks. Starting near the headquarters of the Greater Amman Municipality, the marathon ends close to the Roman Amphitheatre, which was built during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius, which means that finishers are rewarded with glorious views of these ancient Roman ruins.


To book your hotel in Amman, visit rotana.com



Robbie Williams concert

🗓 October 18, 2023 📍Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

English singer-songwriter Robbie Williams will bring 25 years of his greatest hits to the stage at Etihad Arena on Yas Island this October. Promising an unforgettable evening of pure entertainment, fans will experience the artist's energetic showmanship and infectious charisma as he performs a repertoire of his career-defining classics, from Angels to Candy. Tickets are soon selling out!


To book your hotel in Abu Dhabi, visit rotana.com


AlUla Wellness Festival

🗓 October 19 - November 4, 2023 📍AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Returning for its third edition, the AlUla Wellness Festival focuses on the healing power of silence, art and nature. Taking place over the course of two weeks, the programme features sessions hosted by world-class industry experts and wellness practitioners dedicated to creating restorative and holistic experiences. Among the activities available to participants are yoga retreats, a silent, meditative hike through the dunes, cooking workshops, sound healing sessions, gardening and more.


To book your hotel in Saudi Arabia, visit rotana.com


Abu Dhabi Showdown Week

🗓 October 21, 2023 📍Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi Showdown Week returns to the UAE capital once again this October. Marking a long track record of successful UFC events in the emirate, the 2023 edition celebrates the fifth year of Abu Dhabi Showdown Week and the 30th anniversary of UFC. Fans of the sport can participate in a week-long schedule of events, taking place across the emirate, including athlete meet and greets, fitness challenges and parties. The main event on October 21 will see Islam Makhachev defend his lightweight title against Charles Oliveira at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, as well as the highly anticipated return of Khamzat Chimaev who will face Paulo Costa in a middleweight bout.


To book your hotel in Abu Dhabi, visit rotana.com

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