Top events to look out for this summer in Dubai

Step into the magical world of fairytales with Sleeping Beauty at Dubai Opera on 2 and 3 June. Your little ones will be mesmerised by The Moscow Ballet La Classique, as their elite dancers pointe and plie perfectly to Tchaikovsky's acclaimed score. Book now to be dazzled by the story of princess Aurora, the evil Fairy Carabosse and the good Fairy Lilac.

After the success of the World Tennis League last year, the city is gearing up for the inaugural edition of the World Padel League at the Coca-Cola Arena from 8-11 June. This thrilling sporting contest will see top-rated players from around the globe battle it out for the winner's trophy, followed by concerts by A-list artists like Indian superstar Mithoon, Khaleeji sensation Shamma Hamdan and famed pop-soul band Simply Red.

Game on at the 2023 edition of the Dubai Esports Festival (DEF) from 21-25 June. From a GameExpo Summit, featuring talks and seminars with more than 100 industry speakers, to a consumer show where you can meet your gaming heroes in real life and participate in console and mobile tournaments, there's something for everyone. While there, fans can also pick up newly released games and memorabilia or hone their skills in creative workshops.

Josh Widdicombe and Rob Beckett’s book Parenting Hell is a Sunday Times bestseller, and their podcast of the same name – with a whopping 50 million downloads to date – has been consistently topping charts around the globe. The British comedians and authors are heading to Dubai Opera for an exclusive Middle East show on 3 July, where they will share the highs and lows of raising kids in current times.

For a truly unique theatre experience, book tickets to La Perle – the region's first permanent show that combines breathtaking choreography with daring stunts, in a novel 'aqua theatre'. You'll be on the edge of your seat as world-class artists perform remarkable feats, including aerial acrobatics, death-defying dives and unbelievable motorcycle tricks – this act never fails to impress. Shows run at 6:30pm and 9pm from Tuesday to Saturday.