Concerts, cultural showcases, sports, and family-friendly activities are all happening this June in Abu Dhabi
June in Abu Dhabi is packed with things to see, do, and experience, and the best part is that most of it happens indoors, keeping things cool while the summer heat does its thing outside.
The month brings a mix of cultural, musical, and family-friendly events, from 100 Years of Bollywood Music: The Musical at the Cultural Foundation to orchestral evenings like An Evening with Conductor Xu Zhong at NYU Abu Dhabi.
There are also exciting experiences at Louvre Abu Dhabi, indoor action with Abu Dhabi Summer Sports 2026 at ADNEC, and inspiring community moments like the Special Olympics UAE – and plenty more.
Best things to do in Abu Dhabi in June 2026
Dive into the Discovery Surf Sessions at Surf Abu Dhabi
Throughout June, Hudayriyat Island
Make the most of the summer season with a full lineup of poolside and surf experiences running right through summer. From 45-minute sessions and Discovery Surf lessons at AED 150 to value bundles that reward you for surfing more, there’s something for every level. Enjoy Surf Social meet-ups through June, free access to the Surf Club pool, and a summer schedule of Surf Trips designed to keep the energy going all season long.
AED150 for Discovery Surf Session. For further information, visit surfabudhabi.com
Dance the night away at 100 Years of Bollywood Music: The Musical
5 June, Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
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This lively stage production celebrates a century of Bollywood music through a colourful mix of live performances, storytelling, and dance. Presented by Malhaar Ensemble, the show revisits iconic songs and unforgettable cinematic moments from across Bollywood’s many eras. With more than 40 performers on stage, audiences can expect energetic choreography, powerful vocals, and immersive visuals that bring the magic of Indian cinema to life in a nostalgic, feel-good performance.
AED150. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Let the kids play and eat for free on Yas Bay
Throughout June, Yas Bay
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Summer in Abu Dhabi has been made easier for families at Yas Bay Waterfront, where kids can eat, play and join activities for free when a parent buys a main meal. It includes The Lighthouse Yas Bay, Hunter & Barrel Yas Bay, Bushra by Buddha-Bar, Zeera by Buddha-Bar, Café del Mar Abu Dhabi, Paradiso Yas Bay, all offering kid-friendly dining deals throughout the summer season across the waterfront experience for families too.
Terms and conditions apply. For further information, follow @yasbayuae on IG
Support the Special Olympics UAE
6 June–10 June 2026, Various locations across Abu Dhabi
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One of the region’s most inspiring and inclusive sporting events is returning to Abu Dhabi this June, bringing together athletes, families, volunteers, and communities from across the UAE. The Special Olympics UAE shines a light on empowerment, participation, and accessibility through a packed programme of competitions and community initiatives designed to champion People of Determination.
For further information, please visit specialolympics.ae
Get creative with activities at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Sundays & Wednesdays, Saadiyat Cultural District
Here comes a pair of relaxed, educator-led creative sessions for adults designed to spark artistic expression inside a museum setting. ‘Book an Easel’ focuses on painting inspired by selected artworks and themes from the collection, while ‘Drawing at the Museum’ builds observational sketching skills inspired by architecture and exhibits. Together, they offer a calm, hands-on way to explore creativity and develop technique in an inspiring cultural space.
Free until end of June. For further information, visit louvreabudhabi.ae
Jump into Abu Dhabi Summer Sports 2026
6 June–19 August 2026, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
This is a major indoor sports event transforming ADNEC Centre into a huge multi-sport hub for the summer. Designed to keep residents active during the hotter months, it offers courts, tracks, and fitness zones for football, basketball, padel, badminton, yoga, and more. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, it also includes family activities, kids’ camps, and community programmes focused on health, movement, and fun.
For further information, visit adsummersports.ae
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Try out the Louvre Abu Dhabi Architectural Experience
Saturdays, 10.30am and 4.30pm
This is a 90-minute guided journey exploring the design and story behind Louvre Abu Dhabi. Led by Jean Nouvel’s vision of a “museum city” on the sea, the experience reveals how light, water, and geometry shape its iconic dome. Guests follow seven curated stops before walking beneath the structure itself, witnessing the famous “rain of light” and gaining deeper insight into its architectural harmony.
AED170 per person, individual tour: 10.30am; AED1,125 for group tour (15 people), 4.30pm. For bookings, call 600 56 55 66
Join the Abu Dhabi Padel League 2026
Throughout June, various locations
The Abu Dhabi Padel League 2026 is currently running right through to September, with eight relaxed rounds across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. It’s open to all levels, with C and D categories so beginners feel comfortable too. You can join in casually or play every round, earning points as you go. It’s social, flexible, and a great way to stay active, meet players, and enjoy padel without pressure.
Al Ain on 6-7 June, Abu Dhabi on 20-21 June. To register, visit adsc.ae
Enjoy An Evening with Conductor Xu Zhong
8 June, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
This elegant orchestral evening brings together a carefully curated programme of classical works inspired by both Eastern and Western musical traditions. Conducted by internationally acclaimed maestro Xu Zhong, the performance explores themes of cultural connection and artistic exchange through timeless compositions. The result is a sophisticated yet approachable concert experience that blends rich orchestral sound with moments of emotional depth and refinement.
AED100-150. For further information, visit publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu
Discover The Magic of Ballet Fairy Tales
13 June, Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
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If you’re a ballet or musical fan, The Magic of Ballet Fairy Tales at Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi is worth adding to your plans this month. Featuring iconic moments from The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Swan Lake, the show blends stunning choreography, beautiful costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music into one magical evening. It’s a captivating experience for both adults and children, bringing classic fairy tales to life in a truly enchanting way.
AED275. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Explore The March of Triceratops at the NHMAD
Until 30 June, Saadiyat Cultural District
This is one of the most fascinating exhibitions around, but hurry as it closes on 30 June. It’s your turn to experience what it feels like to walk alongside a herd of incredible dinosaurs, in what is an exciting journey into the ancient world, showing how they moved, lived, and survived together. Perfect for curious minds, it brings prehistoric times to life in a fun and interactive way for all ages to enjoy.
For further information, visit nhmad.ae
Check out the cinematic hit Space Cadet
14 June, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
Based on Kid Koala’s acclaimed graphic novel, Space Cadet is a touching animated film exploring themes of love, loneliness, and connection across space. The dialogue-free story follows a robot guardian left behind on Earth while the astronaut he raised embarks on her own journey into the cosmos. Paired with an original soundtrack and dreamy visuals, the film creates a beautifully emotional and imaginative cinematic experience.
AED15. For further information, visit publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu
Catch the legendary Omar Khairat Live
20 June, Etihad Arena
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Legendary Egyptian composer and pianist Omar Khairat takes to the stage at Etihad Arena this June for an evening of timeless music and unforgettable melodies. Known for his iconic film and television scores, Khairat’s compositions carry deep nostalgia for audiences across the region. Performed live on piano alongside a full orchestra, the concert promises a moving atmosphere filled with emotion, familiarity, and beautifully orchestrated moments.
AED199. For further information, visit etihadarena.ae
Witness the classical masterpiece Scheherazade by Rimsky-Korsakov
21 June, Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
Inspired by the legendary stories of One Thousand and One Nights, Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade transforms storytelling into sweeping orchestral music filled with adventure, mystery, and drama. Through rich instrumentation and expressive melodies, the performance paints vivid scenes inspired by the famous tales, creating a cinematic listening experience that feels both immersive and emotionally powerful from beginning to end.
AED100. For further information, visit uaenationalorchestra.ae
Brace yourself for Football World Cup fever
Starting 11 June, Reem Mall
Catch the World Cup action at the new fanzone at McGettigan’s in Reem Mall, a massive 4,100-square-metre space and one of Vision Hospitality’s largest UAE expansions. It’s a high-octane fan zone built for watching global sports like football and rugby, with big screens and a lively atmosphere. By day it’s relaxed dining, and by night it turns into a buzzing entertainment spot with a wide range of beverages.
For further information, follow @mcgettigansabudhabi on IG
Hear Wael Kfoury live
13 June, Space42 Arena
Arabic music fans can look forward to an unforgettable evening as Wael Kfoury takes to the stage at Space42 Arena. Known as the ‘King of Romance,’ the beloved singer will perform his biggest hits in a concert filled with passion, emotion and audience connection.
From AED 305. For further information, visit abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Create your own artist book with Arnold Barretto
13-14 June, 421 Arts Campus
Explore the art of bookmaking at 421 with a two-day workshop led by acclaimed photographer, designer and book artist Arnold Barretto. Participants will learn practical techniques including binding, scoring, accordion-book construction and layout while creating their own artist book from concept to completion.
AED 60. For further information, visit 421.online
Celebrate Emirati musical heritage with Abdulrahman Aljunaid
26 June, Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
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Enjoy an intimate evening of music and storytelling as Abdulrahman Aljunaid takes centre stage for the Cultural Foundation’s Jalsat series. The performance pays tribute to Emirati heritage through songs and poetry honouring iconic national figures and cultural traditions.
From AED106. For further information, visit tickets.culturalfoundation.ae
Discover Mahmoud Darwish through story and calligraphy
28 June, 421 Art Campus
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Families are invited to enjoy an interactive storytelling session inspired by the Noor’s Heroes book series. Following a live reading, participants can take part in a hands-on Arabic calligraphy and typography workshop celebrating the legacy of Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish.
Suitable for families and children of all ages. For further information, visit 421.online
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