Things to do in the UAE this week, from Emirati Women's Day to Bollywood nostalgia

Head to Nakheel Mall for a Transformers event or visit a new food hall at Dubai Festival City Mall

My Square in Business Bay will celebrate Malaysian Independence Day with a banquet of traditional dishes. Photo: My Square

August is wrapping up with a handful of events, from a Nickelodeon mall show in Al Ain to a nostalgic Bollywood concert in Dubai. Emirati Women's Day falls this week too, with special events running for the annual commemoration.

Here, The National rounds up seven things to do around the Emirates, from August 26 to September 1.

Monday, August 26

Start the week with an immersive activity featuring the robots from the Transformers franchise – from Bumblebee to Optimus Prime – at Nakheel Mall on The Palm. Expect games and challenges, including code-breaking sessions and a virtual showdown. Merchandise is being sold at Virgin Megastore and Toys R Us as well. There are also opportunities to win prizes, including tickets to the coming Transformers One movie.

Daily until Friday; 1pm-9pm; Palm Jumeirah, Dubai; 800 625 4335

Tuesday, August 27

Catch SpongeBob and his friends at Bawadi Mall in Al Ain. Photo: Bawadi Mall

Families in Al Ain can head to Bawadi Mall to see SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward and other characters from the popular cartoon in a 30-minute stage show called I Heart Dancing, which is on until Sunday.

The daily performances are designed for young audiences with humour, music and movement that capture the essence of the beloved SpongeBob SquarePants series. Aside from the shows, children can also interact with the characters in meet-and-greet sessions.

Daily until Sunday; 5pm, 7pm and 8.30pm; Al Ain; 03 784 0000

Wednesday, August 28

Celebrate Emirati Women's Day at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island, where Emirati artist Najat Makki will lead an interactive workshop, guiding participants on a creative journey with themes of empowerment, identity and heritage. Visitors will be able to dive deep into the rich cultural tapestry of the UAE, using various artistic mediums to express their personal interpretations of what it means to be an Emirati woman today.

The workshop will result in a collaborative art piece, which will be displayed at the venue's Annex Gallery. The event is open to women of all ages and backgrounds. All materials will be provided and no prior art experience is necessary. Email [e-mail] to secure a spot.

Wednesday; free; Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi; 02 642 2338

Thursday, August 29

Book an extended stay at Dubai's Media One Hotel, which is offering a 30-day stay – whether it's for work, play or just a change of scenery. The booking comes with bi-weekly housekeeping services and daily waste collection, as well as a complimentary covered parking space. A self-service laundry facility is available too, as well as a pantry exclusively for long-stay guests.

Access to the hotel's pool and health club amenities are also included. Long-stay guests also get dining discounts from the restaurants, as well as access to the hotel's 24/7 room service for late-night cravings.

Valid for bookings until September 30; Dh6,499 per month; Media City, Dubai; 04 427 1000

Friday, August 30

Malaysian culture will be centre stage at My Square, a bistro-style restaurant at DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai, as the venue celebrates the country's independence day.

My Square will be adorned with Malaysian flags, while authentic dishes will be served at the buffet table, including satays, beef rendang and lontong sayur (a traditional rice dish), while desserts such as cendol (iced sweet dessert) and durian cakes will also be available. There will also be live cultural performances to celebrate the occasion.

Friday; 7pm-10.30pm; Dh129 per person; Business Bay, Dubai; 055 314 7523

Saturday, August 31

Bollywood fans can listen to playback singer Shaan's melodious set live at the Coca-Cola Arena. As part of the Live Love Laugh Shaan Se concert, the popular Indian artist will perform hits such as Chaand Sifarish, Jab Se Tere Naina and Woh Ladki Hai Kahaan, among many others from his three-decade career.

Saturday; from 8pm; from Dh99; Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai; 800 223388

Sunday, September 1

Market Island at Dubai Festival City Mall is now open. Photo: The Market Island

Market Island, pegged as the largest food hall in the Middle East with more than 50 food outlets, has opened in Dubai Festival City Mall. It contains restaurants such as Allo Beirut, Scarlet’s Bakery and Homer Lobster as well as newcomers to the UAE such as Pasta Art, Gelato Ado and Nikkei Sushi, a Japanese outlet by La Barra creator and chef Roberto Segura.

Food aside, the venue also hosts an array of activities and entertainment every weekend, from DJ performances to specialised workshops for both adults and children.

Monday to Thursday, 10am-11pm; Friday to Sunday, 10am-1am; Dubai Festival City Mall; 800 332