Lord of the Dance: This show has become almost as big an Irish export as the black stuff, and it’s returning to the UAE later this month after a successful stint in Abu Dhabi in 2010. It was suave Irishman Michael Flatley who created the epic toe-tapping production after he left his role in similar show Riverdance following ‘creative differences’. Based on Irish folklore, it’s been a huge hit since its first performance in 1996 and has been seen by more than 60 million people in 69 countries. INFO: From Dhs250, 5pm and 9pm, 27-28 Mar, Dubai World Trade Centre, 050 284 2020, www.lordofthedance.ae

The Dubliner’s: You’ll find a pot of gold at the end of Sheikh Zayed Road if you head to this little slice of Ireland near the airport. A special party is planned, complete with Irish stew, Irish pies and Irish oysters. Don’t leave home without your singing voice, as band After Hours will be encouraging you to join in with them. All together now: “Oh, Danny Boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling…” INFO: 2pm-12midnight, 17 March, Le Méridien Dubai, Airport Road, Dubai, 04 702 2455, www.lemeridien-dubai.com

The Hub: Get into the (green) spirit of St Patrick’s Day at The Hub pub, which is offering a special deal including four drinks and an Irish burger for Dhs195. INFO: 9-17 Mar, Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah Beach Walk, Dubai, 04 448 4733, www.sofitel.com

Barasti: You won’t need a lucky shamrock to have a fab St Paddy’s Day here. Dubai’s best beach bar has it all arranged, and Saturday 15 and Monday 17 March will see celebrations hosted by Hot 100 member Paddyman, including DJs on the beach, while on the Saturday a screening of Six Nations Rugby will add to the atmosphere. INFO: Free, 2pm (Sat 15 Mar), 11am (Mon 17 Mar), Barasti Beach, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, 04 318 1313, www.barastibeach.com

Reform Social & Grill: It might be a British-themed bar, but this new hot spot in the Lakes is being a good neighbour by celebrating Ireland’s biggest day of the year. It’s lining up special dishes including steak and Guinness pie, and you can also sample three types of Irish malt. INFO: 12noon-12midnight, Mon 17 Mar, The Lakes, Dubai, 04 454 2638, www.reformsocialgrill.ae

McGettigans: Two Dubai branches of the UAE’s most popular Irish hangout will be full of the craic – not just for one night but for a whole long weekend! There’ll be five days of traditional Irish music, and tunes from Dublin band Picture House, who are flying in especially. They’re best known for their 1998 hit Starburst. INFO: Free, Thu 13-Mon 17 Mar, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, www.facebook.com/mcgettigansdubai