Family shows, live concerts, and cultural festivals take centre stage this January
January in the UAE is buzzing with fun, and there’s something for everyone.
Kids will love Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at Etihad Arena, while music fans can catch the magic of A. R. Rahman live in concert
Sports lovers can cheer on the world’s top female tennis stars at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, and culture buffs can wander through the glowing installations of Manar Abu Dhabi or soak up heritage at Al Hosn Festival.
Don’t forget the vibrant Saadiyat Nights, where food, music, and entertainment come together for truly spectacular evenings under the stars.
Liwa International Festival
Until 3 January, Al Dhafra Abu Dhabi
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Winter fun isn’t over yet! The Liwa International Festival comes to a close on 3 January, bringing the desert near Tal Moreeb dune to life with high-octane motorsport action, cultural performances, and family-friendly entertainment. Make sure to explore Liwa Village, where six themed zones offer games, shows, and plenty of delicious food. With its lively atmosphere, thrilling activities, and vibrant performances, it’s a weekend outing that’s loud, fun, and absolutely worth the drive out to Al Dhafra.
Free. For further information, visit Liwa International Festival
Abu Dhabi Mall Winter Village
Until 4 January, Abu Dhabi Mall
Abu Dhabi Mall is keeping the festive spirit alive all month with its Winter Village, packed with craft workshops, live entertainment, parades, flash mobs, and plenty of photo opportunities. Wander through the festive market to discover decorations, handmade finds, and unique gifts, while enjoying the lively atmosphere and seasonal cheer. With so much to see and do, it’s the perfect way to soak up the holiday vibes and enjoy a fun-filled day out with family and friends.
For further information, visit Abu Dhabi Mall
Mother of the Nation Festival
Until 4 January, Corniche Abu Dhabi
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It’s your final chance to experience MOTN at Abu Dhabi Corniche before it wraps up on 4 January 2026. From thrilling rides and live performances to interactive zones and irresistible waterfront dining, the festival delivers nonstop fun for all ages. Browse international brands and regional designers, soak up the electric atmosphere, and don’t miss the spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. One last visit so make it count.
AED35. For further information, visit Mother of the Nation Festival
Manar Abu Dhabi
Until 4 January, various locations
As the season draws to a close, Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is entering its final days before concluding in early January. Under the theme The Light Compass, the public light art exhibition features more than 19 newly commissioned works, illuminating Abu Dhabi’s archipelagos, mangroves and oases with immersive installations, projections and sculptures. Celebrating the emirate’s ancestral relationship with light, the exhibition offers a poetic journey through art, nature and technology.
Free. For further information, visit Abu Dhabi Culture
Romeo & Juliet by Russian State Ballet Mari El
9 January, Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi
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This three-act classical ballet set to Sergei Prokofiev’s powerful score brings Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to life with beauty and emotion. The timeless story of forbidden love unfolds through breathtaking choreography, dramatic moments, and unforgettable music. Presented by the renowned Russian State Ballet Mari El, the production showcases exceptional artistry, precision, and passion. With magnificent costumes and striking stage design, this moving performance is a compelling journey of love, fate, and destiny.
250 AED. For further information, visit Platinumlist
The Laughter Factory
9-17 January, The Club Abu Dhabi
The Laughter Factory kicks off 2026 with the high-energy humour that has made it the UAE’s longest-running comedy tour. Featuring international comedians and sharp, no-filter wit, each show promises nonstop laughs. Hosted in intimate venues across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah, audiences enjoy an up-close atmosphere filled with fast-paced jokes and lively interactions. It’s the perfect way to start the year with an electric, laugh-out-loud comedy experience.
160 AED. For further information, visit Platinumlist
Elias J.TV Band live
9 January, 321 Sports, Hudayriyat Island
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Elias J.TV Band is making their UAE debut this January, bringing soulful reggae, island vibes, and all the Filipino pride straight from Mindanao. Happening 9 January at 321 Sports, Hudayriyat, this is set to be the most talked-about concert of 2026. Presented by MAG EVENTS, this will be a celebration of music, culture, and unstoppable island energy.
AED 99. For further information, visit Platinumlist
Cinderella by Russian State Ballet Mari E
9 January, Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi
Set to Sergei Prokofiev’s enchanting music, Cinderella is a two-act ballet brought to life by the Russian State Ballet Mari El with choreography by Konstantin Ivanov. This beloved fairytale follows the kind-hearted Cinderella as she overcomes her cruel stepfamily and experiences the magic of the royal ball. With exquisite classical elegance, graceful choreography, and richly detailed costumes, the performance transports audiences into a world of beauty, romance, and timeless artistry – a magical journey for all ages.
275 AED. For further information, visit Platinumlist
Ludovico Einaudi at Saadiyat Nights
10 January, Saadiyat Island
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World-renowned Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi takes the Saadiyat Nights stage on Saturday, 10 January 2026. Famous for his emotionally charged minimalist style, Einaudi blends classical traditions with contemporary flair, captivating audiences worldwide. Set against the serene Saadiyat Island beachfront, this open-air concert will feature pieces from his acclaimed album Underwater, alongside favourites from film and television.
AED295. For further information, visit Ticketmaster
Discover Sunday Funday at Yas Bay Waterfront
11, 18, 25 January, Yas Bay
Kick off the year with a free, fun-filled family day at Sunday Funday, returning to Yas Bay Waterfront as part of the UAE’s Year of the Family 2026 celebrations. Hosted by Dylan & Dillon, the event features music bingo, interactive games, balloon artists, and exciting prizes. Running every Sunday in January from 4pm to 6pm at Etihad Arena Plaza, it’s the perfect way for families to enjoy laughter, activity, and quality time together.
Free. For further information, visit yasbay.ae
Ataya Exhibition 2026
12-17 January, ADNEC Marina
Ataya is back! This annual humanitarian exhibition is a celebration of creativity with a heart. From stunning women’s fashion and sparkling jewelry to chic accessories and home décor, it’s a treasure trove of style. Designers from the UAE and beyond come together not just to showcase their work, but to support charitable causes and give back to those in need.
100 AED. For further information, visit Platinumlist
Boom.Diwan live
14 January, The Arte Center at NYUAD
Experience a night where tradition meets innovation as Boom.Diwan takes the stage at NYU Abu Dhabi. Kuwaiti maritime and desert heritage blends with bold, contemporary jazz in fresh compositions tied to their forthcoming album. Joined by South African pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, bassist Liany Mateo, and drummer Elé Howell, the ensemble creates a shared musical language rooted in heritage yet fearless in exploration. Led by Dr. Ghazi Al-Mulaifi, this is a one-of-a-kind performance celebrating culture, collaboration, and improvisation.
Free. For further information, visit The Arts Center at NYUAD
Lewis Capaldi at Saadiyat Nights
17 January, Saadiyat Island
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Lewis Capaldi will headline Saadiyat Nights on Saturday, 17 January 2026, delivering an evening of music under the stars. Set on Saadiyat Island’s stunning open-air venue, expect his biggest hits like Someone You Loved and Wish You the Best, packed with the raw emotion fans love.
AED295. For further information, visit Ticketmaster
Al Hosn Festival
From 17 January, Al Hosn Abu Dhabi
Al Hosn Festival is where the UAE’s rich heritage comes to life! Packed with authentic crafts, traditional practices, and hands-on experiences, it’s a celebration that really brings the community together. Wander through storytelling sessions, watch masterful craftsmanship in action, and soak up the cultural vibes that make Emirati traditions so special. It’s a fun, immersive way to connect with the UAE’s roots and celebrate everything that shapes its national identity.
AED35. For further information, visit Abu Dhabi Culture
You might also like: Everything you need to know about the new UAE National Orchestra
Linkin Park
20 January, Etihad Arena
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Linkin Park is back on 20 January with their ‘From Zero World Tour’, their first visit since 2010. Mike Shinoda, Phoenix, Joe Hahn, Emily Armstrong, and Colin Brittain are bringing high-octane performances of both new hits like The Emptiness Machine and Heavy Is The Crown alongside timeless anthems from their 20+ year career. Celebrating their chart-topping album ‘FROM ZERO,’ this is set to be a rock event fans won’t forget!
For further information, visit Platinumlist
A.R. Rahman live
23 January, Etihad Arena
Get ready for an unforgettable night as A. R. Rahman, the world-renowned ARR, takes the stage at Etihad Arena on 23 January 2026. Famous for blending timeless Indian melodies with modern innovation, he’ll dazzle audiences with lush orchestrations, stunning visuals, and the pure magic of his music. From his debut in Roja to Slumdog Millionaire, Rahman’s award-winning journey, including Oscars, Grammys, and a Padma Bhushan, promises a truly spectacular evening.
225 AED. For further information, visit Etihad Arena
The Tasty Biscuits
23 January, The Black Box at NYUAD
The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi will host the living-room vibes of The Tasty Biscuits, bringing three years of soulful music to the stage. Known for heart-on-sleeve performances, they craft songs that explore life’s in-between moments featuring joy, fear, love, loss, and everything else that makes us human. This is a collaborative, intimate, and unforgettable live experience that celebrates music, storytelling, and raw emotion.
AED52.50. For further information, visit The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
John Mayer at Saadiyat Nights
24 January, Saadiyat Island
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John Mayer brings his iconic hits to Saadiyat Nights, performing classics like Waiting on the World to Change, Daughters, and Paper Doll in the intimate beachfront setting. Known for his soulful guitar and heartfelt vocals, Mayer promises a night of memorable music – and joins a host of international artists headlining another star-studded season at Saadiyat Nights.
AED295. For further information, visit Ticketmaster
Tamaas Festival
29 January, East Plaza, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
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Discover a world of sound as artists fuse modern innovation with traditional roots on one unforgettable stage. Yasmine Hamdan, pioneer of the Arab indie scene, makes her highly anticipated return. Al-Qasar delivers retro-futurist Arab psychedelia, straddling the Mojave and the Sahara with hypnotic grooves. And Maruja Limón brings explosive rumba Catalana, blending flamenco, dembow, electronic beats, salsa, and pop into a high-energy, genre-defying performance.
AED52.50. For further information, visit The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out!
30 January – 1 February, Etihad Arena
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out! is coming to the UAE for three days of non-stop fun from 30 January to 1 February 2026 at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Kids will join Peppa, George, and all their friends on a playful adventure to the zoo and the beach, singing along to catchy tunes, meeting colorful characters, and enjoying bright, vibrant sets. It’s a cheerful, interactive experience the whole family will love.
AED99. For further information, visit Etihad Arena
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