The inevitable regression back into the daily routine following that breif New Year optimism has begun. But just because the allure of routine are over doesn’t mean you have to act the part. This weekend’s line-up of events caters to the adrenaline junkie, lounge lizard or anything in between.
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Jan 28 to 29
Abu Dhabi Invitational
Although here at Esquire we spend most of the day wishing we were out on the golf course, when it comes to it as a spectator sport the office is divided. But the Abu Dhabi Invitational? That’s another story. As the region’s leading Pro-Am event, a top field of golf pros are teamed up with celebrities take tackle the UAE capital’s Yas Links course in Ryder Cup-style four balls – all in the name of charity.
The Pro team is led by former Ryder Cup capitan Paul McGinley, while Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel heads up a celebrity team that includes his former teammate Dwight Yorke, cricketers James Anderson, Sir Brian Lara and Jacques Kallis, as well as singer Ronan Keating.
Jan 27
Climb to Abu Dhabi
If you prefer something a little more kinetic, head to the capital this Friday for the “Climb to Abu Dhabi”. Signing up to the ‘vertical marathon’ race will see you running up 32 flights of stairs at Abu Dhabi’s iconic Etihad Towers. Or if you’re anything like our Humanitarian Award winner, Omar Samra, you can test your mettle against the elite 82 floor climb. Not for the faint of heart.
Jan 27 to 28
Quoz Art Fest
If you stuggle to get out of bed on a weekend before midday, then perhaps Alserkal Avenue’s Quoz Art Fest is more your kind of thing. Running over both Friday and Saturday, the festival’s definition of art is not limited to merely the visual and encompasses song, dance, theatre, comedy, fashion and interior design. The event will have a variety of workshops and interactive talks with key industry specialists. If you’re worried they missed out on the most important art of all, don’t worry the food trucks have you sorted.
Jan 27 and 28
Dragon boat racing
If you’re looking for an excuse to celebrate another New Years, you’re in luck. The newly opened Dubai Canal is holding dragon boat festival for the Chinese New Year. Teams of 20 paddlers can sign up to row in decked out dragon scaled long boats. The festival will run throughout the weekend. That gives you time to gather your crew.