Dine, explore and relax across the city’s top spots
The weekend has arrived, and Abu Dhabi is packed with brilliant ways to make the most of it.
Whether you’re taking the kids to the Electric Ocean Festival at SeaWorld, catching Ben Böhmer live, cooling off at Yas Waterworld, enjoying a magical performance of Kingdom of Ellyra, or treating yourself to a relaxing spa day and great food, there’s something for everyone.
We’ve rounded up some of the very best events, family activities, dining experiences and cultural happenings taking place across the capital this weekend.
Here’s your guide to the best bits worth checking out.
Over to you, Abu Dhabi.
Best things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi
Discover traditional Emirati games at ADSS
Until 23 August, ADNEC
There’s much more to Abu Dhabi Summer Sports than staying active. At the free Abu Dhabi Culture Pavilion, families can discover traditional Emirati games, artisan workshops, falconry demonstrations, live performances and the authentic Bait Al Gahwa coffee experience. Running until 23 August at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, it’s a fantastic way to explore the UAE’s rich heritage while enjoying one of the capital’s biggest indoor summer attractions.
For further information, visit adsummersports.ae
Witness an architectural talk at Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
Thursday, 9 July, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
Love a good talk that gets you thinking? Head to the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi on 9 July for the latest Guggenheim Abu Dhabi City Circles event. This free evening discussion explores how parks, gardens and public spaces help shape the cities we live in and the communities around us. Whether you’re into architecture, design or simply love Abu Dhabi’s beautiful outdoor spaces, it’s a fascinating way to spend an evening.
To register and secure your place, visit nhmad.ae
Have a magical day out in the Kingdom of Ellyra
Friday, 10 July, Cultural Foundation
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Treat the little ones to a magical day out with Kingdom of Ellyra, a family-friendly theatre show filled with adventure, imagination and larger-than-life characters. Set in a magical kingdom, the story takes young audiences on a journey of courage, friendship and self-belief through colourful storytelling and eye-catching performances. It’s no surprise the production picked up Best Performance at the Emirates Festival for Children’s Theatre, making it a brilliant choice for families looking to enjoy a little theatrical magic togethe
AED15. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Have fun with the kids at Electric Ocean Festival
Until 30 August, Yas Island
If you’re still deciding what to do this weekend, SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi has you covered. The popular Electric Ocean Festival is back, filling the park with glowing neon shows, live entertainment, interactive experiences, silent discos and colourful characters until 30 August. Whether you’re planning a family day out or simply looking to escape the summer heat, it’s a brilliant excuse to spend the day at the world’s largest indoor marine life theme park.
For more information, visit seaworldabudhabi.com
Cool down with friends at Yas Waterworld
Yas Island
If you’re after a proper summer day out, Yas Waterworld is the place to beat the heat in style. The Yas Island favourite now holds a Guinness World Records title for the most waterslides in a waterpark, with a massive 55 slides to explore. From high-adrenaline drops to splash zones for little ones and the UAE’s tallest waterslide, it’s a full day of fun, thrills, and non-stop water adventures with family and friends.
AED 295 per person, children under 1.1m tall: AED 250 per person, children under 3 years old go free. For further information, visit yaswaterworld.com
Flip out with Pancake Saturdays
Every Saturday, 8am to 11am, Yas Acres
If you’re looking to make your weekend a little sweeter, head to Roots Bar & Kitchen for a pancake experience that’s worth getting out of bed for. Watch your pancakes being cooked fresh right in front of you before choosing between indulgent sweet toppings or delicious savoury options. Served with coffee, tea or juice, it’s the perfect excuse to slow down, catch up with friends or treat the family to a leisurely weekend breakfast.
AED 85 per person inclusive of coffee, tea or juice; AED 35 per child (6 to 12 years old). For bookings, call 050 757 4808
Join the football fever at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Daily, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
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W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is keeping the football fever alive with its Rush Bar Fan Zone, which has quickly become one of the capital’s go-to spots for live World Cup action. You can enjoy giant screens, buzzing crowds and an electric matchday atmosphere from kick-off to the final whistle. Happy Hour runs daily from 5pm to 7pm with ‘Buy One Get One Free’ on selected drinks, while group and corporate packages make it the perfect place to gather, cheer and catch every moment of the tournament.
For further information, call 02 656 0000
Grab a bargain at The Ripe Market
11 and 12 July, Abu Dhabi Mall
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The Ripe Market is back at Abu Dhabi Mall this July, turning the space into a lively hub of local creativity and independent brands. Expect stalls filled with handmade jewellery, fashion, homeware, beauty products, artisan food and one-off gifts from UAE-based makers and small businesses. With a special Merchants & Makers Pop-Up also taking place mid-month, there’s even more to discover for anyone who loves unique finds and supporting local talent.
Free. For further information, visit abudhabi-mall.com
You might also like: Best places to watch the FIFA Football World Cup in Abu Dhabi
Pamper yourself at The Ritz-Carlton Spa Abu Dhabi
All weekend, The Ritz-Carlton Spa Abu Dhabi
The newly reimagined The Ritz-Carlton Spa Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to escape the everyday. Inspired by the lotus flower, the luxurious retreat offers everything from restorative massages and body rituals to steam rooms, saunas and wellness experiences, all with stunning views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Better still, throughout July, guests can enjoy 25% off treatments of 60 minutes or more, making it the ideal time to indulge in a little well-deserved self-care.
Lotus High Tea: AED 250 per person. Monday to Sunday, from 10am-10pm. Advanced booking is required. For bookings, call 02 818 8055
Indulge in laidback coastal flavours at Beach House
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Dreaming of an Italian summer? Beach House at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is bringing those laid-back coastal flavours to Abu Dhabi with its new Sapori d’Estate dining experience. This exciting event serves up a seasonal three-course menu inspired by Italy’s seaside flavours, featuring handmade pasta, fresh seafood and classic favourites, all enjoyed with stunning views across Saadiyat Beach. Perfect for a leisurely lunch or a sunset dinner, it’s an irresistible excuse to dine by the sea this summer.
AED280. For bookings, call 02 407 1234
Catch DJ Ben Bohmer live
Saturday, 11 July, WHITE Abu Dhabi
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Prepare for an unforgettable night as Ben Böhmer brings his signature melodic house sound to Abu Dhabi. Known for atmospheric tracks including Breathing and Black Mamba, the acclaimed DJ and producer creates sets that blend uplifting rhythms with beautifully layered melodies. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering his music for the first time, expect an immersive evening of feel-good beats and unforgettable energy on the dancefloor.
AED150. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Experience a taste of Paris
Souq Al Mina
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Bring a little slice of Paris to your weekend at Le Blanc Café in Souq Al Mina. From handcrafted crêpes and buttery French pastries to traditional Bordeaux canelés, freshly baked tarts and delicatessen favourites, it’s the kind of café you’ll want to linger in. You can stop by for your morning coffee or enjoy a leisurely afternoon treat. This charming new spot is well worth adding to your Abu Dhabi café list.
For further information, call 058 550 0838
Bite into cookie heaven on the Corniche
All weekend, Corniche
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Freshly baked, warm and impossible to resist, Mezo Cookie is serving some of the gooeyest cookies in Abu Dhabi. You can expect crisp edges, soft, melt-in-the-middle centres and plenty of flavour in every bite. So, whether you’re catching up with friends over coffee or simply craving something sweet, this local favourite is well worth adding to your dessert hit list.
For further information, follow @mezocookies on IG
Enrol in a fun and educational summer camp
Multiple venues throughout the summer
Abu Dhabi’s summer camps are about to spring into action, offering kids a chance to stay active, creative and curious all season long. From sports and science to arts, wildlife encounters and hands-on workshops, there’s something for every interest. It’s all about trying new things, making friends and turning the school break into an adventure filled with learning and play.
For further information, visit yallaabudhabi.ae
Keep an eye out for Music in the City events
Multiple venues in Abu Dhabi
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Music in the City is a new initiative from DCT Abu Dhabi that brings live music into everyday spaces across the emirate. Instead of ticketed venues, performances will appear in parks, malls, hotels and waterfronts, turning routine outings into unexpected cultural moments. From Arabic classical sets at Yas Bay Waterfront to jazz, soul and youth orchestras in public spaces, the programme celebrates local and global talent in a relaxed, accessible way.
Free. For further information, visit abudhabiculture.ae
