14 things to do in 14 days before Ramadan

That special time of the year is nearly here – 2 weeks to be precise.

According to the Islamic calendar, the holy month of Ramadan is scheduled to begin in exactly 14 days. Depending on the sighting of the moon, the first of Ramadan, 1431 AH, will fall on August 11, 2010.

Although fasting will be particularly challenging due to the summer heat, it will also bring about excitement in the form of plenty of fun things to do in August; which normally is considered one of the most tedious months in the UAE.

But there is still 14 days to the beginning of Ramadan, and obviously there are certain events and activities that go on hold for the holy month.

So here, Emirates 24|7 brings you a rundown of all the things you need to fit into your social calendar before August 11. How many will you manage?

1 – Wednesday, July 28: LEARN SOMETHING NEW ABOUT THE UAE

Head to the Treasury Dome at the Gold Souk, Dubai Mall for Min Bladi Al Emarat, an exhibition that provides a fascinating insight into the age-old UAE Bedouin, marine and mountain traditions. The event features activity corners, including a heritage oasis, hospitality tent, as well as various competitions.

Plus, a variety of Emarati handicrafts are available on display.

For more information, call: 600 545555.

2 – Thursday, July 29: MEET DUMB AND DUMBER

Their words, not ours. Sunil Pal and Umer Sharif (no, not the Egyptian actor) arrive in town to perform the play 2 Idiots for one night only. Live at the Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, Oud Metha, Dubai.

Tickets range from Dh50 to Dh200.

Call: 050 218 3536.

3 – Friday, July 30: SWOON AT A BOLLYWOOD HEARTHROB

Okay, this may not be one for the lads, but Bollywood hottie Aamir Khan touches down in Dubai for the launch of Peepli Live at the Ramee Royal Hotel in Bur Dubai.

Tickets cost Dh150 per couple.

Call: 04 367 6699.

4 – Saturday, July 31: PLAN A MINI BREAK

If, like us, you can’t find the time to go abroad for a vacation, why not take a mini-break at one of the great hotels in the country. There are lots of deals on offer – from rooms in Dubai to offers in other emirates.

One of our favourites is the Al Murooj Rotana Dubai offering the rate of Dh450 per room per night, on single or double occupancy inclusive of buffet breakfast. Relax and re- energise for the week ahead. Result.

5 – Sunday, August 1: CLOWN AROUND FOR A DAY

Yes, those “comedians” in tonnes of make-up, funny clothes and over-sized shoes may be terrifying for some, but clowns can be funny. Sometimes.

To judge for yourself, why not book tickets to see the Big Apple Circus, which takes place at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi.

Tickets cost Dh200 per adult, and for every adult ticket bought, you get a child’s ticket for free.

Visit www.summerinabudhabi.com for more info.

6 – Monday, August 2: LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HOLY MONTH

Ahead of Ramadan, Nedubai.com is organising a Ramadan Awareness Workshop at the Tulip Inn Hotel in Knowledge Village focusing on traditions of Ramadan, as well as how business can benefit during the month.

From 6pm until 9pm.

Entry costs Dh75.

Call: 050 8832432.

7 – Tuesday, August 3: LAUGH THE NIGHT AWAY

Head to the UAE’s monthly comedy night, Laughter Factory at Heroes, Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi from 9pm. This month features Jo Enright, Karl Spain and Rob Deering.

Tickets cost Dh115 per person.

Call: 02 616 6132.

8 – Wednesday, August 4: SEND THE KIDS TO CAMP

If the little ones are really bored (and you’re pulling your hair out from their constant whining about it), The Dubai Mall is offering a five-day programme for children to experience all five leisure and entertainment components in the complex: visiting KidZania; watching a movie at Reel Cinemas; ice skating at Dubai Ice Rink; experiencing aquatic life at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and playing at SEGA Republic.

Runs from 9am until 3pm, Sunday to Thursday.

Dh950 per child.

9 – Thursday, August 5: GET INTO THE BHANGRA GROOVE

One of the biggest Asian dance gigs is scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 5 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with appearances by RDB, Raghav and Punjabi MC.

Tickets range from Dh100 to Dh200.

Call: 04 329 5009.

10 – Friday, August 6: PARTY IT UP, DUTCH-STYLE

Dance the night away with one of the Netherlands’ biggest electronic music DJs and producers, Marco V at Club Quantum, Crowne Plaza Dubai.

Tickets cost Dh150.

Call: 04 367 6699.

11 – Saturday, August 7: GO FOR SOME WORLD MUSIC

Jessa Zaragoza performs in Dubai with support from special guest Daiana Menezes.

The Filipino singer – best known for her hit Bakit Pa – will appear live at Rocky’s Café at the Regent Palace Hotel.

Tickets cost Dh75 per person.

Call: 056 137 9292.

12 – Sunday, August 8: SUPPORT YOUNG TALENT

Al Quoz’s hip and happening art gallery the JamJar is currently showing Beyond the Surface, an exhibition featuring the work of 15 young artists who are currently studying art in schools across Dubai.

For more info, visit www.thejamjardubai.com.

13 – Monday, August 9: EXPLORE ARABIA

Art Couture hosts Glimpses of Arabia from Different Eyes, an exhibition reflecting the vibrancy and growth of the 21st century Arab world.

More information about the exhibition is available at www.artcoutureuae.com.

14 – Tuesday, August 10: WATCH AN INDIE FILM

The day before Ramadan sees Shelter hosting a special movie night, featuring a selection of independent movies programmed by Butheina H. Kazim. From 8.30pm.

Tickets cost Dh15.

Visit: www.shelter.ae.

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.