Dubai, UAE; 7 January 2026: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) kicks off January with a lively mix of events, pop ups, dining and wellness experiences across Gate Avenue, Gate Village and Gate District. From seasonal activations and retail offers to standout dining and wellness sessions, the district offers plenty to explore throughout the month, inviting visitors to experience Dubai through one gate, from day to night.

January highlights include monthly Yogalates sessions combining movement and post-class networking, the 1 Billion Followers Summit bringing leading content creators and digital platforms to DIFC, the return of viral sensation The Uncommon with its vinyl and cassette-inspired pop-up café, terrace dining at Shanghai Me, and exclusive winter offers in fashion, beauty, food and gifting.

DIFC – Your Gate to Culture, Creativity and Connection in Dubai

Events to add to your calendar: 

Yogalates Under The Gate

Roll out your mat for an energising blend of yoga flow and Pilates precision. Lengthen, strengthen, and de-stress in one upbeat session for a complete mind body workout. The next class is on 28 January, part of a monthly series held on the last Wednesday of every month with F&B partner La Petit Ani and wellness partner Plush Tan. Following the session, enjoy relaxed social networking with complimentary bites and refreshments. 

Nearest parking: Gate District 2, Visitor Parking A.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/whats-on/events/yogalates-under-the-gate-2025 

1 Billion Followers Summit – 2026

Back for another edition, the dynamic 1 Billion Followers Summit transforms DIFC’s public realm into the world’s largest expo for content creators, animating the district with live recordings, on-stage conversations, creator-led sessions, from 9 to 11 January 2026. Organised by the UAE Government Media Office under the theme “Content for Good,” the programme puts digital culture at the heart of DIFC, bringing creators, platforms, and industry leaders together in real time. 

Discover what’s new at DIFC:

Gloria Osteria at The Ritz Carlton DIFC

Gloria Osteria by Big Mamma makes its Middle East debut in the heart of DIFC. Curated by Chef Pietro Zumer, Gloria Osteria reimagines Italian classics with playful interpretations, using premium Italian produce and select local partners. A Milan-inspired ambience and a vibrant Italian dining experience awaits at The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC.

Reservation: https://gloria-osteria.com/gloria-osteria-dubai 

Jones the Grocer Winter Business Lunch at DIFC

Warm up your weekdays with Jones the Grocer’s Winter Business Lunch. Enjoy a chef-crafted main paired with a refreshing drink for AED 69. A flavour-first weekday choice in the heart of DIFC.

Nearest parking: Gate District 5, Visitor Parking R.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/experience/things-to-do/dine/jones-the-grocer-express

tease pop-up 

London-born wellness café tease lands at DIFC with personalised functional beverages infused with adaptogens and superfoods. From matcha to mushroom lattes, each cup is crafted to support balance, mood, and everyday wellbeing.

Nearest parking: Gate District 2, Visitor Parking A.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/whats-on/events/tease-x-difc

Maison Pierre Marcolini 

From Dubai to Tokyo, London to Paris, Maison Pierre Marcolini elevates chocolate to a new level. Visit the patisserie at DIFC and discover a refined chocolate experience, where innovation, craftsmanship and emotion meet in every bite.

Nearest parking: Gate District 2, Visitor Parking A.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/whats-on/events/maison-pierre-marcolini-pop-up-at-difc

The Uncommon

Step into The Uncommon, a pop-up dining experience celebrating the UAE’s lively, creative and cultural scene. Nestled in Gate Avenue, this limited-time space titled ‘For the Record’, transforms everyday dining into a sensory adventure. Explore a vinyl- and cassette-inspired café, pick your favourite records, and watch the atmosphere come alive as you savour expertly crafted desserts and drinks.   

Nearest parking: Gate District 2, Visitor Parking A.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/whats-on/events/roofline-by-difc

Shanghai Me Terrace 

Outdoor season returns to Gate Village as Shanghai Me reopens its terrace. The space offers a relaxed setting, perfect for al fresco lunches and evening dining in the heart of DIFC. Now open daily from noon until late.

Reservation: +9714 351 0288

Nearest parking: Gate Village 8, Visitor Parking B.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/experience/things-to-do/dine/shanghai-me

Rivoli 

If you are looking for a gift that leaves a lasting impression, Rivoli brings together iconic timepieces and sleek leather accessories from brands including Omega, Longines, Montblanc, Rado and Tissot. Add a personal twist with complimentary engraving and embossing, turning every pick into a one-of-a-kind gift they’ll treasure long after it’s unwrapped.

Nearest parking: Gate District 2, Visitor Parking A.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/experience/things-to-do/shopping/rivoli

Cosy Sunday 

Cosy Sunday offers 50 per cent off selected Italian cashmere throughout January, available at DIFC and online. Discover the “Healing Touch” collection, featuring a curated selection of timeless knitwear designed for everyday comfort. 

Nearest parking: Gate Avenue 1, Visitor Parking R.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/experience/things-to-do/shopping/cosy-sunday

TONI and GUY 

Enjoy a fresh new look this January at TONI and GUY, with complimentary professional blow dry included with every colour service at DIFC. The offer applies to highlights, tints and glossing, excluding toners, and is available throughout the month. 

Nearest parking: Gate District 2, Visitor Parking A.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/experience/things-to-do/services/toni-and-guy-hairdressing

The Little Things

The Little Things lands at DIFC with a selection of authentic collectibles inspired by nostalgia, fandom and popular culture. From childhood favourites to exciting new discoveries, every piece is thoughtfully curated to spark joy, curiosity and connection.

Contact Number: +971554043862

Nearest parking: Gate Avenue 4, Visitor Parking K.

Visit: https://www.difc.com/whats-on/events/the-little-things-x-difc

Experience Dubai through one gate this January, as DIFC comes alive with fresh concepts, limited-time pop-ups, and opportunities to meet the finest content creators in the world. Plan your visit around wellness, inspired dining and curated retail. Let DIFC set the tone for the year ahead.