Looking for things to do in Abu Dhabi this May?
From high-energy nights at Yas Island with Gordo at WHITE to relaxing wellness moments at Louvre Abu Dhabi’s floating breathwork sessions, the capital is packed with reasons to get out and explore.
You can catch live Arabic music with Rashed Al Majed and Tamer Ashour at Etihad Arena and Space42 Arena, or step into Bollywood nostalgia with a full-scale musical production.
Add in beachfront dining at Mamsha Al Saadiyat’s Dine & Vibe, adrenaline-filled Trackside Staycations at Yas Marina Circuit, and laid-back waterfront evenings, and there’s really no excuse to stay in.
Over to you Abu Dhabi.
Best things to do in Abu Dhabi in May
Rashed Al Majed live
2 May, Etihad Arena
Experience a night filled with emotion and nostalgia as Rashed Al Majed performs live at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. One of the Arab world’s most influential voices, he brings a catalogue of nearly 40 albums shaped by love, longing, and life’s most personal moments.
His music has become part of everyday memories for many across generations, carried by poetic lyrics and timeless melodies. Each performance reflects deep cultural connection and shared emotion, creating an atmosphere where every song feels familiar.
AED350. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Core X Fitness League Abu Dhabi 2026
2 May to 25 July, various venues in Abu Dhabi
View this post on Instagram
If you’re into fitness or just fancy trying something different, Core X Fitness League in Abu Dhabi is worth a look. Launched by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council with Palms Sports, it’s not your usual gym session. This is a multi-stage fitness challenge running across the emirate, with each round set in a different location. One day you’re training on the beach, another near iconic city landmarks. It’s all about keeping things fresh, fun, and a bit competitive, so you’re not stuck in the same routine.
For further information, visit adsc.gov.ae
Soraya Pop-up at Yas Mall
Until 6 May 2026, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
Soraya is bringing a fresh pop-up to Abu Dhabi alongside Bottarga and IYKYK, and it’s all about three distinct styles meeting at one table. Soraya leads with its modern, sharing-style Persian-inspired dishes, Bottarga brings bold Mediterranean flavours, and IYKYK adds its signature UAE-born drinks. It’s not about blending identities, but celebrating contrast and personality. The result feels social, lively, and a bit unexpected, where every plate and drink has its own voice but comes together in a fun, shared dining experience.
For further information, visit yasmall.ae
Trackside Staycation at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Until 6 May, Yas Island
If you’ve ever wanted a taste of racing life with a luxury twist, Yas Marina Circuit has just launched a limited-time Trackside Staycation in Abu Dhabi. Book a driving experience and you’ll get a complimentary night for two at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, with breakfast included. From Formula Yas 3000 single-seaters to VIP tours, Caterham drives, drift nights, and track days, it’s all about getting on circuit your way.
Prices from AED900-1850. For bookings or further information, call 02 497 9000
Visit Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi
The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
View this post on Instagram
One of London’s most talked-about dining spots has arrived in Abu Dhabi. Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi brings its signature Mayfair style to The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, with elegant interiors and a Mediterranean-inspired menu. It’s a great pick for a relaxed lunch or stylish dinner, whether you’re catching up with friends or planning a special meal out. The vibe is polished but easy-going, with dishes designed for sharing and enjoying slowly. They’re also open until late, making it a great place for after dinner drinks.
For bookings, visit isabelabudhabi.com
Timeless experiences at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Until 31 May
At The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, relaxation and wellness meet meaningful family time. Guests can unwind with spa treatments, curated dining, and personalised Butler Service, while the ‘Family Moments for All’ experience brings loved ones together through spacious suites, creative activities, and access to the Treasure Island Children’s Club. With thoughtful touches like late check-out and dining privileges for children, every stay balances calm, connection, and effortless luxury.
For bookings, email reservations.abudhabi@stregis.com or call 02 694 4666
The Reset Ritual at Andaz Abu Dhabi Capital Gate
Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi
View this post on Instagram
If you’ve been needing a proper reset, this one at Andaz Abu Dhabi Capital Gate is worth trying. The Reset Ritual is a curated wellness experience designed to help you unwind and recharge for AED 150. You get gym access, steam room time, a 30-minute cold plunge, and access to the rooftop pool for post-session relaxation. To top it off, there’s also 20 per cent off dining at The Lean and Cyan Brasserie, making it an easy mix of wellness and laid-back indulgence in one place.
AED 150. To book, call 02 596 1380
Restaurant Weeks on Yas Island
4-10 May, 11-17 May
Abu Dhabi’s foodie scene is turning up the heat this May as Yas Island launches its first-ever Restaurant Weeks across Yas Bay and Yas Marina. Over two weeks, enjoy exclusive menus, special offers, and waterfront dining across some of the island’s top restaurants. From relaxed bites to lively evenings, it’s the perfect chance to explore new flavours, try something different, and enjoy great food by the water with friends, family, or a casual night out.
Yas Bay Restaurant Week (4–10 May) and Yas Marina Restaurant Week (11–17 May). For more information and to explore participating restaurants, visit yasbay.ae and yasmarina.ae
Tamer Ashour live
16 May, Space42 Arena
View this post on Instagram
Get ready for a live performance by Tamer Ashour at Space42 Arena in Abu Dhabi. Known for his emotional delivery and signature style, he has built a strong connection with audiences through music about love, heartbreak, and reflection. Songs like Zikrayat Kaddaba, Ekhtarna Leh, and Thania Wahda continue to resonate across the region.
AED150. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
You might also like: Bubble Planet is coming back to Abu Dhabi: here’s what you need to know
Kadim Al Sahir live
28-29 May, Space42 Arena
View this post on Instagram
Known as “The Caesar”, Kadim Al Sahir performs live at Space42 Arena for an evening of timeless Arabic music. His voice has shaped decades of songs about love, longing, and everyday life, blending classical Arabic style with a modern touch. With iconic collaborations with Nizar Qabbani, tracks like Qoulee Ouhibbouka continue to resonate across generations. This is a live set built on emotion, poetry, and a strong connection with the audience.
AED295. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Skins of Dream at Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
Al Hosn Abu Dhabi
The first mid-career retrospective of Shezad Dawood, Skin of Dreams, brings together over 15 years of work exploring architecture, ecology, and imagined futures. Curated by Jessica Cerasi, it offers a deep dive into his multidisciplinary practice across film, painting, and installation. Highlights include his ‘openers’ works, the premiere of the final episodes of Leviathan Cycle, and the first major public presentation of his painting practice, showing how his ideas connect across mediums and time.
Free. For further information, visit abudhabiculture.ae
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi x Vilebrequin Beach Pop-Up
Until 31 August, Nation Riviera Beach Club, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
View this post on Instagram
This is an easy, feel-good beach day with a luxe twist, as The St. Regis Abu Dhabi has teamed up with Vilebrequin for a limited-time beach club pop-up in Abu Dhabi. Get your own private cabanas in signature prints, chilled welcome drinks, and curated dining made for slow afternoons in the sun. Everything is designed to feel relaxed but elevated, whether you’re coming with friends or family. You can lounge by the water, dip between beach and pool, and enjoy little touches like exclusive gifts and thoughtful service throughout the day.
For bookings, visit nationrivierabeachclub.com
Dine & Vibe at Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Weekends through May, Mamsha Al Saadiyat
If you’re after an easy evening plan in Abu Dhabi, Mamsha Al Saadiyat is rolling out a new ‘Dine & Vibe’ concept that mixes food, music, and laid-back coastal energy. Running across four weekends in May, it’s all about showing up for dinner and staying for the atmosphere. Venues like Society, Pickl, Antonia, NIRI, Beirut Sur Mer, Black Tap, and TING IRIE are all part of it, each adding their own food and music mix.
For further information, visit @mamshaalsaadiyatdestination on Instagram
Full Moon Floating Breathwork at Louvre Abu Dhabi
1, 2, 3, 22, 23, and 24 May 2026, Louvre Abu Dhabi
View this post on Instagram
A unique wellness experience is coming to Louvre Abu Dhabi this May, transforming the iconic space into a calm, floating retreat. In collaboration with Breasy, guests will take part in a Full Moon Floating Breathwork Session, lying on water under the museum’s glowing dome while guided breathing and soft soundscapes play through headphones. Running on selected evenings, the experience includes inflatables, towels, and eye masks, creating a fully prepared, switch-off environment.
AED400. Louvre Abu Dhabi. For bookings, visit louvreabudhabi.ae
DJ Gordo at White Abu Dhabi
16 May, WHITE Yas Island
View this post on Instagram
May in Abu Dhabi is heating up on the dancefloor, and WHITE Abu Dhabi is leading the charge with a stacked DJ lineup. All eyes are on US DJ Gordo on 16 May, fresh off Coachella, bringing his evolved sound from high-energy EDM roots to a smoother blend of house and tech. Known for reading the crowd and building deep, layered sets, he turns music into a full journey rather than just a playlist. With more international names lined up across the month, it’s shaping up to be a strong season for electronic music on Yas Island.
16 May, WHITE Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. For bookings, call 050 639 8934
Architectural Experience at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Saturdays, Individual tour: 10.30am, Group tour: 4.30pm, Saadiyat Cultural District
If you’ve ever admired the iconic dome of Louvre Abu Dhabi, now you can actually step inside it. The museum is opening its architecture through a guided ‘Architectural Experience.’ This 90-minute tour goes beyond the galleries, giving visitors a closer look at Jean Nouvel’s design and the famous “rain of light” effect created by the geometric dome structure. The highlight is walking beneath the 180-metre dome itself, seeing how light, water, and design come together in one of Abu Dhabi’s most recognisable landmarks.
Tickets start at AED170 for individuals or AED1,125 for groups. For further information, visit louvreabudhabi.ae
Kids Go Free on Yas Island
Until 31 October, Yas Island
If you’re planning a family break, Yas Island has brought back its popular Kids Go Free offer, making summer stays much easier on the budget. Up until 31 October, children aged 11 and under can stay, dine, and play for free when sharing a room with parents at hotels like W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, and The WB Abu Dhabi Hotel.
Families also get access to major theme parks including Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. It’s a simple, value-packed way to plan a stress-free family getaway.
For bookings and more information, visit yasisland.com
Pool and beach passes
Various locations in Abu Dhabi
A pool and beach pass in Abu Dhabi is one of the easiest ways to turn a normal day into something that feels like a mini holiday. You basically show up, pick a sunlounger, and switch into full unwind mode. Go for pool dips, beach walks, cold drinks, and just drifting between the water and the shade without any real plan. It’s great for catching up with friends or just switching off solo, and the best part is you don’t even need a hotel stay to enjoy it.
Follow Yalla for all the latest news
