The UAE has it all, record-breaking skyscrapers, beautiful saltwater creeks, magnificent fountains, indoor ski slopes, and a stunningly diverse population... among a million other things

Yet, when looking around, all you see is people nose diving in their phones. 

Rather than scrolling your day away, grab a friend and explore what the country has to offer.

Here are five of the best cultural and wellness things to do around the UAE:

1. Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi

Source: Time

Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Salvator Mundi will be unveiled to the public at the Louvre Abu Dhabi on Sep. 18 of this year, for a 60 dirhams ($16.33) entrance

Depicting Jesus Christ in Renaissance-style clothing, Salvator Mundi has become the world’s most expensive painting after selling for a casual $450.3 million, and is expected to become the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s greatest attraction. 

2. Explore your artsy side

Source: We Love Art

Have you ever tried your hand at art? It’s soothing and you may surprise yourself with how creative you can get. 

With professional help and a couple of drinks to help you get through your day, join Paint and Grape for a three-hour session of painting on Sep. 1st for 387 dirhams ($105.)

Recreate Lempicka’s Girl In Green With Gloves by attending an all-level social painting series organized by We Love Art.

3. Or maybe enjoy a musical at the Dubai Opera

Source: Dubai Opera

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s final operatic work, The Magic Flute, will be performed by the Armenian National Academic Theatre Opera and Orchestra from Sep.13 to 15 at Dubai Opera for 350 dirhams ($95.) 

It tells the story of Prince Tamino and his companion Papageno, as they set to help out the Queen of the Night and rescue her daughter Pamina.

4. How about going for a run?

It's not always easy to maintain an active lifestyle while living in the city... except some people do make it look effortless. 

Join Super Sports Run Series for a run on Oct. 12th for just 125 dirhams ($34) for those 18-years-old and younger, and 175 dirhams ($47) for those aged 19 and older. 

Compete to energetic music, bustling supporters, and plenty of aid stations. The true meaning of a community run with fantastic vibes.

5. Join the free Yogafest at Dubai Internet City’s Amphitheater

Source: Yogafest

Yogafest is a free, sustainable annual community event that brings together teachers and students in a tranquil outdoor setting. 

Exclusively supported by volunteers, it aims to create awareness on leading a happy and healthy life, while supporting children’s charities region wide.

The three-day event - launching on Nov. 15th till the 17th - starts at the Meditation Tent and features numerous wellness classes throughout all tents. Everyone is welcome, and donations are highly encouraged for attendance.

Calio, a calendar app that gets the things you love straight into your calendar, contributed to this post.

To find all the recommended events, whether it’s art, boxing, or the latest streetwear releases, download Calio.