It may be summer but there's still plenty to do
July in Abu Dhabi is packed with things to see, do and experience, making it one of the most active summer months in the capital.
From live music and beachfront pop-ups to major concerts and sporting events, there’s something happening very week.
Music lovers can catch Bedouin at WHITE Abu Dhabi or look out for surprise performances across the city with Music in the City.
Over at Yas Island, fans can enjoy football fever at W Abu Dhabi’s Rush Bar Fan Zone, or go big with UFC Fight Night at Etihad Arena on 25 July.
For more relaxed days, The Ripe Market at Abu Dhabi Mall brings homegrown shopping, while A Board Game Adventure at Louvre Abu Dhabi offers a fun family escape.
Add in Marsana Night Beach weekends, Atif Aslam’s live concert, and waterfront dining spots, and July turns into a month full of outings. All that’s left is showing up.
Here’s your guide to the best bits worth checking out.
Over to you, Abu Dhabi.
Best things to do in Abu Dhabi July 2026
Cool down at Yas Waterworld
Yas Island
If you’re looking to cool off this summer, Yas Waterworld has even more reason to visit. The Yas Island favourite has officially earned a Guinness World Record title for having the most waterslides in a waterpark, with an incredible 55 slides to choose from. From adrenaline-pumping drops to family-friendly splash zones and the UAE’s tallest waterslide, it’s the perfect place to spend a day chasing thrills and trying to beat the heat 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
Experience the new Etihad Rail and a daycation in Fujairah
Hop on the new Etihad Rail passenger service and turn a simple day into a mini adventure with a trip to Fujairah. In under two hours, you’ll glide from Abu Dhabi’s cityscape to the UAE’s eastern coast, where you can marvel at the stunning views along the way. Spend your day unwinding at Snoopy Beach, famous for its clear waters, snorkelling, and laid-back beach vibe, or explore nearby coastal spots before heading back in the evening refreshed. It’s an easy escape without the long drive.
From AED 55 (Comfort Class). From AED 120 (Premium Class). For further information, visit etihadrail.ae
Join the football fever at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Daily until 19 July, Yas Island
W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is cranking up the football fever with the Rush Bar Fan Zone, which has become the capital’s ultimate hub for live match action with giant screens, lively crowds and that all-in matchday atmosphere from the first whistle to the last. From 5pm to 7pm daily, Happy Hour keeps the energy flowing with ‘Buy One Get One Free’ on selected drinks. With tailored packages for groups and corporate get-togethers, it’s shaping up to be the perfect place to watch, cheer and celebrate the World Cup over the coming weeks.
For further information, call 02 656 0000
Unlock exclusive luxury offers at Jawhara Jewellery
2 to 5 July, Abu Dhabi Country Club
Immerse yourself in a world of sparkle this July as Jawhara Jewellery joins forces with OnTheList for an exclusive private sale in Abu Dhabi. Taking place at Abu Dhabi Country Club from 2 to 5 July, the event brings together diamonds, pearls, gold and platinum pieces, plus luxury watches in a relaxed, members-only setting. With special offers across selected collections, it’s a fun chance to browse, discover and maybe pick up something special at great value.
For further information, visit onthelist.com
Grab a bargain at The Ripe Market
4 and 5 July, Abu Dhabi Mall
The Ripe Market is returning to Abu Dhabi Mall this July with a series of weekend pop-ups celebrating local creativity. Browse stalls filled with handmade jewellery, fashion, homeware, beauty products, artisan food and unique gifts from homegrown brands and independent businesses. Alongside the regular market weekends, a special Merchants & Makers Pop-Up will showcase even more local talent, making it the perfect place to discover something different while supporting UAE entrepreneurs.
Free. For further information, visit abudhabi-mall.com
Catch DJ duo Bedouin live
Saturday, 3 July, WHITE Abu Dhabi
Acclaimed DJ duo Bedouin will take over WHITE Abu Dhabi for a night of hypnotic house music and immersive beats. Known for blending traditional melodies with modern electronic sounds, the pair have built a global following with tracks like Set the Tone and The Other Side. Expect an atmospheric set filled with deep rhythms, cultural influences and the kind of energy that keeps the dancefloor moving until late.
AED150. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Enrol in a fun and educational summer camp
Multiple venues throughout the summer
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer? Abu Dhabi is packed with fantastic summer camps offering everything from sports and science to arts, wildlife encounters and creative workshops. Whether your little ones love getting active, making new friends or trying something completely different, there’s a camp to match every interest. It’s a great way to keep them learning, exploring and having fun during the school holidays.
For further information, visit yallaabudhabi.ae
Witness a musical masterclass with Atif Aslam
Saturday, 18 July, Etihad Arena
Pakistani music superstar Atif Aslam is returning to Abu Dhabi for an unforgettable night at Etihad Arena, where fans can sing along to hits including Pehli Nazar Mein, Tera Hone Laga Hoon and Tu Jaane Na. The concert forms part of the venue’s packed summer entertainment line-up. If you miss the Abu Dhabi show, you’ll have another chance to catch him in Dubai when his rescheduled concert takes place on 27 November 2026.
AED95. For further information, visit etihadarena.ae
Try your hand at A Board Game Adventure
From 18 July, Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Children’s Museum at Louvre Abu Dhabi is bringing playtime to life with ‘A Board Game Adventure’ this July. The interactive exhibition explores the history of beloved games like chess, ludo, carrom and mancala, revealing how they travelled across cultures and generations. Featuring ancient artefacts and hands-on experiences, it’s a fun family day out that shows board games have been bringing people together for thousands of years.
AED70. For further information, visit louvreabudhabi.ae
Attend UFC Fight Night on Yas Island
Saturday, 25 July, Etihad Arena
Get ready for another action-packed night as UFC Fight Night returns to Etihad Arena on 25 July. Fans can watch some of the world’s top MMA stars step into the Octagon, with Magomed Ankalaev defending his light heavyweight title against Khalil Rountree Jr. in the main event. Umar Nurmagomedov also features on the card, promising a thrilling evening of world-class fights at one of the UFC’s favourite international destinations.
AED295. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Join Marsana Night Beach every weekend
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout July, Marsana
Marsana Night Beach is bringing back its popular after-dark beachfront experience from 3 July to 27 September, running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7pm to 11pm. You can expect chilled DJ sets, relaxed waterfront dining, live entertainment and a laid-back summer vibe by the sea. With cooler evening temperatures and family-friendly activities, it’s an easy weekend option for a casual night out or a sunset stroll along Abu Dhabi’s coastline.
AED110 adults, AED60 children. For further information, follow @marsanahudayriyat
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi’s Summer of Discovery
1-31 July, Saadiyat Island
Throughout July, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is hosting a series of family-friendly weekend activities as part of its Summer of Discovery programme. Young explorers can take part in Nature’s Families: Families of UAE, Zoom In/Zoom Out: Decoding Nature, Explorer’s Field Journal, and Survive the Desert. Through interactive games, hands-on science, wildlife observation and problem-solving challenges, children will discover more about the UAE’s unique ecosystems, biodiversity and conservation efforts. Designed for a range of age groups, the activities encourage curiosity, creativity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world in a fun, engaging setting.
Ages range from 4-12 years old. For further information, visit nhmad.ae
Keep an eye out for Music in the City events
Multiple venues in Abu Dhabi
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
Go on a romantic date night at Rodeo Grill
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
Looking for the perfect date night? Head to Rodeo Grill Abu Dhabi, where every course is designed to be shared and enjoyed together. From refined starters and perfectly cooked premium cuts to indulgent desserts worth slowing down for, it’s the kind of dining experience that feels effortlessly special. Add in the elegant setting and attentive service, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a memorable evening for two.
A la carte. For further information, call 02 697 9000
