From PAW Patrol and K-pop to book fairs, Irish dance, live music and more, here’s what’s happening across Abu Dhabi this September
September is looking seriously busy in Abu Dhabi, with a packed calendar of things to do across the capital.
From PAW Patrol Live! and the Middle East Film & Comic Con to live music, Irish dance, sumo wrestling, K-pop and the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for a fun night with friends or keen to discover something a little different, September has something for everyone.
We’ve rounded up some of the best events happening across Abu Dhabi this month, so get your diary ready and start making those plans.
Best things to do in Abu Dhabi in September 2026
ADIHEX 2026 returns to Abu Dhabi
Until 6 September, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
One of Abu Dhabi’s biggest celebrations of Emirati heritage, ADIHEX returns for its 23rd edition. You can expect a fascinating mix of falconry, equestrian displays, traditional crafts, hunting equipment and outdoor activities, with plenty to see and explore. Whether you’re passionate about horses and falcons or simply want to experience an important part of UAE culture, ADIHEX is well worth a visit. It’s a great day out for families, culture lovers and curious visitors alike.
For further information, visit adihex.com
One Day Choir DXB presents ‘Dreams’ at The Club
6 September, The Club, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi
Fancy swapping the shower for the stage? One Day Choir is heading to Abu Dhabi for the first time after five sold-out sessions in Dubai, bringing dozens of singers together to belt out The Cranberries’ iconic anthem Dreams. There are no auditions, no rehearsals and no experience needed – just turn up and learn the song from scratch with a room full of strangers. Expect warm-ups, games, four-part harmonies and plenty of good vibes. Come solo or with friends and find your voice together.
AED150. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Treat yourself to Saturday brunch at WB™ Abu Dhabi
Saturdays, 1pm-4pm, Yas Island
Make your Saturday a little more indulgent with The Director’s Club Signature Saturday Brunch. Running throughout the summer, this leisurely afternoon brings together premium cuts, bold flavours and expertly crafted drinks in the stylish setting of the hotel’s signature steakhouse. Settle in, take your time and enjoy a relaxed weekend feast with plenty of flavour.
AED 275. For bookings, call 02 815 0000
Go on the Women of the Nation tour at Zayed National Museum
Thursdays and Saturdays, until 26 September, 3pm, Saadiyat Cultural District
Taking place until 26 September, you can now step into the stories of remarkable women with the Women of the Nation tour at Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District. This 45-minute curated experience takes visitors through five galleries, shining a light on 8,000 years of regional history, community contributions and the influential women who helped shape it. Priced at AED 40, it’s an insightful way to explore the museum while discovering the stories and achievements behind the UAE’s rich heritage.
AED40. For bookings, visit zayednationalmuseum.ae
The Dirty Dozen Brass Band | Fanfaraï
5 September, The Red Theatre, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
A lively night of brass, rhythm and global sounds is on the cards at The Arts Center at NYUAD as New Orleans legends The Dirty Dozen Brass Band join French North African ensemble Fanfaraï for a brilliant double bill. Expect a joyful mix of jazz, funk, R&B, soul, Arab-Berber, Afro-Cuban and Latin influences, with two hugely energetic groups bringing their own take on brass music to the stage. Whether you’re a jazz fan or simply looking for something a little different this weekend, this promises to be a seriously fun night of live music.
AED75.50. For more information and tickets, visit publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu
The Butterfly Who Flew Into The Rave
10 to 12 September, The Black Box, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
This one is for all the old schools ravers out there. The Arts Cebter at NYUAD presents an intense hour of movement, techno and rave-inspired energy as The Butterfly Who Flew Into The Rave brings its award-winning dance performance to Abu Dhabi. Created by Oli Mathiesen with Lucy Lynch and Sharvon Mortimer from Aotearoa, New Zealand, the show explores the physical language of techno culture through relentless, beat-driven choreography. Set to Detroit techno artist Suburban Knight’s Nocturbulous Behaviour, three dancers move in perfect rhythm, capturing the exhaustion, euphoria and raw energy of rave culture.
AED52.50. For further information, visit publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu
Middle East Film & Comic Con 2026
11 to 13 September, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, Al Rawdah
Calling all pop culture fans – Middle East Film & Comic Con returns to Abu Dhabi for a weekend packed with film, TV, gaming, anime, comics and cosplay. Expect celebrity guests, creative workshops, filmmaker and creator panels, gaming zones, tournaments, retro games, exclusive merchandise and plenty of photo opportunities. Cosplayers can also show off their best looks, with awards and the chance to represent the UAE at an international competition. Whether you’re a gamer, collector or superhero superfan, there’s plenty to discover.
For more information, visit mefcc.com
PAW Patrol Live!
11 to 13 September, Etihad Arena, Yas Island
PAW Patrol Live! ‘Heroes Unite’ is bringing Ryder and the much-loved pups to Abu Dhabi this September for a fun-filled family adventure. Expect plenty of music, action, special effects and interactive moments as the heroic team comes to life on stage. With six performances taking place across the weekend, it’s a brilliant chance for little PAW Patrol fans to see their favourite characters up close and join them on an exciting mission.
From AED95. For more information and tickets, visit Etihadarena.ae
35th Edition of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2026
13 to 18 September, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair returns for its 35th edition, bringing together authors, publishers, booksellers, literary fans and creative minds from around the world. Expect plenty of books to browse, discover and take home, alongside talks, cultural experiences and opportunities to meet voices from the literary world. Indonesia will be this year’s Guest of Honour, showcasing its rich literary and cultural heritage. Best of all, entry is free, making it an easy addition to your September plans.
For more information, visit adbookfair.com.
Mid-Autumn Festival – A Moonment to Remember
17 September, Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi
Experience the magic and tradition of Peking Opera this Mid-Autumn Festival as the prestigious China National Peking Opera Company brings more than 80 years of artistic heritage to Abu Dhabi. You can expect a spectacular blend of powerful singing, expressive movement, elaborate costumes and captivating storytelling, showcasing one of China’s most celebrated performing arts traditions. With a mix of classic and contemporary productions, this special cultural experience offers a fascinating glimpse into Chinese heritage while celebrating the connections between cultures through music, theatre and performance.
AED150. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Dance of the Emerald Isle
19 to 20 September, Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi
Here comes a little taste of Ireland in the heart of Abu Dhabi as Dance of the Emerald Isle makes its city debut at the Cultural Foundation. Created by Chris Hannon, the spectacular production brings together world-class dancers, musicians and singers for an evening filled with traditional Irish music, energetic choreography and captivating storytelling. Celebrating the culture and folklore of all 32 counties, it promises plenty of toe-tapping tunes, impressive dance numbers and a vibrant journey through the Emerald Isle.
AED180. For more information and ticket details, visit Platinumlist.
Candlelight Concert
25 September, ADNEC Centre, Al Ain
The ever popular Candlelight Concert brings its signature glow to Al Ain. Set against the flickering light of thousands of candles, talented local musicians will perform everything from classical favourites by Vivaldi, Mozart and Chopin to reimagined hits from Queen, ABBA, Coldplay and Ed Sheeran. With different themed concerts taking place throughout the season, there’s plenty to look forward to, including Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer on 25 September. It’s a beautiful night out for music lovers.
AED150. For more information and ticket details, visit feverup.com
All-Star Sumo Elite Competition
26 September, Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi
Professional sumo action comes to Abu Dhabi for the first time at the end of September. The All-Star Sumo Elite Competition brings nine elite wrestlers from Japan, Mongolia and Egypt to the capital for 36 fast-paced bouts, alongside the fascinating ceremonies that make sumo so unique. Away from the ring, expect traditional wrestler introductions, Japanese Taiko drumming, themed photo opportunities and food and drink stalls. VIP ticket holders can also enjoy an exclusive meet-and-greet with the wrestlers.
AED85. For tickets and more information, visit Platinumlist Abu Dhabi
K-POP Fever
26 September, Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
K-POP Fever is bringing the energy, style and spectacular choreography of Korean pop culture to Etihad Arena this month. Inspired by global superstars including BTS, BLACKPINK and KATSEYE, the high-energy tribute show features 12 singers and dancers performing a selection of hit songs with live vocals and dynamic routines. Fans should expect colourful performances, catchy tunes and plenty of K-pop flair throughout the night. If you love Korean pop or simply fancy a lively night of music and dance, this one is for you.
AED155. For further information, visit Etihadarena.ae
CinemaNA: Cotton Queen
28 September, The Red Theater, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
Discover Sudanese heritage, identity and resilience through Cotton Queen, a moving film by Sudanese filmmaker Suzannah Mirghani. Set in a cotton-farming village, the story follows teenage Nafisa as she finds her voice while her community faces major changes brought by a development project and genetically engineered cotton. Inspired by her grandmother’s stories of resistance, Nafisa takes a stand to protect the fields that connect her village to its past. A powerful evening of cinema, culture and storytelling.
Aed15.75. For further information, visit publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu
Scratch and win at Abu Dhabi Mall
Until 11 September, Abu Dhabi Mall
Back-to-school shopping just got a little more exciting in Abu Dhabi. Spend AED 200 at Abu Dhabi Mall on everything from backpacks and stationery to sports gear, shoes and lunchboxes, then head to the Customer Service desk for a Scratch & Win card. With more than 1,300 instant vouchers up for grabs, prizes range from AED 100 to AED 5,000, so you could leave with more than just school supplies.
