Ripe Market Reopens in Dubai, Bringing Shopping, Leisure and Entertainment to One Destination

The popular Ripe Market reopened on Saturday, October 10, at Dubai Police Academy Park in Umm Suqeim, marking its 15th year. Featuring shopping stalls, a wide range of food, live performances, sports activities and family entertainment, the open-air market is one of Dubai’s popular weekend destinations.

The new season opened with local businesses, independent producers and families visiting to shop and enjoy the attractions. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries, colourful stalls and entertaining performances created a lively atmosphere for visitors.

Shopping for Local Products and Handicrafts at Ripe Market

One of Ripe Market’s main attractions is its selection of independent brands and local producers offering products that differ from those found in conventional shops.

Visitors can browse a wide range of clothing, jewellery, bags and accessories, home décor items, artworks, beauty products and handmade gifts at the market’s stalls.

Hasabi Organic Farm in Al Ain is also a long-standing participant at the market, offering fresh, organic vegetables grown in the UAE.

Riyadh Hussein, a vendor at the farm, said: “All our vegetables are locally grown and organic, and are freshly harvested every day.”

He added that the farm has participated in Ripe Market for 12 years, helping it attract more customers.

Birs Atelier also has a presence at the market with handcrafted bags made from recycled materials.

Birsan Can, the brand’s owner, said all the bags feature exclusive designs, are entirely hand-stitched and are available in various sizes and price ranges.

After two years at Ripe Market, she decided to secure a permanent stall for the new season, citing the high number of visitors and the market’s promotional support for independent brands as key factors in helping her business grow.

Wooden Speakers That Need No Electricity or Batteries

Another distinctive product at the market is Mango Beat’s range of wooden speakers, made from recycled wood.

The products amplify mobile phone sound without wires, batteries or electricity.

Charles Jabour, one of the brand’s partners, said the speakers are made from a single piece of recycled wood and are crafted entirely by hand.

According to Jabour, the larger models can amplify mobile phone sound by up to seven times, while the smaller models can boost it by up to five times.

The company also works with farming communities in Thailand to transform discarded wood into practical products for international markets.

Jabour, who has participated in the Ripe Market for around eight years, said the event offers a valuable opportunity to connect with people interested in the environment, sustainability and eco-friendly products.

A Variety of Food, Coffee and Fresh Pastries

Alongside the retail stalls, the food and beverage section is one of Ripe Market’s main attractions.

Visitors can enjoy a range of breakfast options, coffee, street food, fresh pastries and family-friendly treats.

This variety allows visitors to turn a short trip to the market into a leisurely outing lasting several hours, combining shopping, dining and relaxing outdoors.

Tatiano Kamoev, a visitor, said he initially came to the venue to play padel, but was also drawn to the handmade products, artistic tableware, food and cultural programmes. Elle McCabe, another visitor, said she came to support a friend’s food stall at the market and described its atmosphere and children’s product shops as highly appealing.

A Variety of Entertainment for Children and Families

Ripe Market has planned a range of activities for children this season.

These include a petting zoo, pony rides, arts and crafts workshops, inflatable play areas, a miniature train and a carousel.

Throughout the season, the market’s entertainment area will also host magic shows, live music and themed performances.

Emma Pilal, one of the mothers who attended the opening ceremony with her son Denis, said the magic show was one of the highlights of their visit. They plan to return to the market to enjoy the other entertainment options and explore the stalls.

The venue’s open-air setting allows families to shop, dine at restaurants and enjoy recreational activities in a single visit.

Dubai Police to Showcase Luxury Cars and K9 Demonstrations

Dubai Police will once again take part in Ripe Market’s community events this year.

Throughout the season, visitors can enjoy performances by the Dubai Police marching band, K9 demonstrations and a showcase of police supercars.

Special activities for children featuring the characters “Officer Amna” and “Captain Mansour” are also planned.

The activities aim to create a welcoming environment where children and families can engage with Dubai Police and learn more about its work.

Weekend Live Music and Cultural Programmes

Throughout the new Ripe Market season, visitors can enjoy live music, magic shows, themed musical performances and family entertainment.

Local artists and bands will also take part, allowing visitors to enjoy live outdoor performances while shopping and dining.

The entertainment line-up will change throughout the season, ensuring regular visitors can experience different performances and activities each time.

Free Yoga, Pilates and Sports Activities

In addition to shopping and entertainment, Ripe Market offers programmes for visitors interested in fitness and physical and mental well-being.

Free yoga, Pilates, sound healing and mindfulness sessions are among the activities held throughout the season.

The venue also offers a wide range of sports, including swimming, padel, tennis, horse riding, football, rugby and gymnastics.

These activities are designed for different age groups and interests, allowing visitors to enjoy an active weekend alongside shopping and entertainment.

Ripe Market Marks 15th Year in Dubai

Now in its 15th year, Ripe Market has become a well-known destination in Dubai for supporting small businesses, local producers and independent artists.

In addition to providing a platform to sell products, the market helps business owners connect directly with customers and grow their brands.

Participants say their continued presence at Ripe Market over the years has played an important role in boosting sales, showcasing products and building connections with the local community.

By bringing together diverse cultures, products and activities, the market provides an opportunity to support local talent and promote social interaction among city residents.

Dubai Ripe Market Dates and Location

Location: Dubai Police Academy Park, Umm Suqeim
Days: Every Saturday and Sunday
Opening hours: 9am to 9pm
Season ends: May 2, 2027

Visitors can head to the market at weekends to shop for local products, enjoy food, attend cultural events and take part in family-friendly entertainment.

More information: Ripe Market website