Don’t miss Akon at the World Tennis League – and so many things to do over the weekend
It’s time for some spirited festive season fun – and while you’re checking out our guides and booking the best spots, there are plenty of things to do to keep you occupied over the weekend!
The events calendar has picked up and how – with everything from Yas Winter Fest to the highly anticipated Akon concert live this weekend!
Meanwhile, whatever the mood, our round-up of things to do in Abu Dhabi is designed to ensure you have a great weekend ahead.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ABU DHABI THIS WEEKEND
EVENTS
Yas Winter Fest 2024
13-22 December
Gather your family and loved ones for some true festive fun at Yas Winter Fest in Abu Dhabi. The holiday artisan market is replete with live entertainment, delicious food, and so much more. This time around, some new season tickets allow for a 10-day entry into the event.
Akon at Etihad Arena
21 December
The World Tennis League line-up just got hotter and how with Akon all set to take the stage. Get ready to sing along to the tunes of Smack That, Lonely, and even Chammak Challo for some top-tier off-the-court action to keep you going through the power-packed event.
The Liwa International Festival 2025
13 December – 4 January 2025
Get ready, desert thrill-seekers! The Liwa International Festival, aka Moreeb Dune 2025, is back transforming Al Dhafra’s sands. Experience bike drag racing, Monster Jam trucks, dune buggies, and the epic Hill Climb Championship finale on New Year’s Eve, complete with fireworks and a live concert.
Abu Dhabi World Schools Festival
14-22 December
The inaugural Abu Dhabi World Schools Festival is all set to take the capital by storm. The event will feature participants aged between 15-18 years old to compete across various sports including hockey, cricket, netball and rugby tournaments. Over 1,000 male and female athletes are expected!
Sheikh Zayed Festival
1 November – 28 February 2025
From record-breaking fireworks and laser shows to immersive cultural exhibitions and weekly festivals, the Sheikh Zayed Festival is your gateway to celebrating the UAE’s rich traditions while enjoying the best of international entertainment.
For tickets, visit https://zayedfestival.ae/en
Exhibition at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Until 9 February 2025
Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances brings together over 100 masterpieces from visionary artists like Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Gauguin. This stunning display showcases the transformative power of the Post-Impressionist movement, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of modern art.
For tickets, visit louvreabudhabi.ae
FOODIE THINGS TO DO IN ABU DHABI
Dine alfresco!
It still might feel like summer, but there’s been a marked shift in temperature with the heat being turned down, just a touch, which can mean only one thing, outdoor restaurants in Abu Dhabi are the place to be. Naturally, we’ve rounded up the best for you to check out!
Taste the Race
Can’t wait for the F1 races to come to town? Thanks to W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, you’re in for a little taste of the excitement! Inspired by the world’s most iconic racetracks, Taste The Race is a unique dining experience promising a thrilling gastronomic adventure at Garage perfect for foodies and racing enthusiasts.
For bookings, call 02 656 0000
Brunchin’ around
What’s a things to do in Abu Dhabi round-up without some amazing brunches? From family brunches to evening brunches, the UAE capital has it all to keep the weekend delicious. Check out our list featuring the best of best in town.
Sunday roast mood
Abu Dhabi’s embraced the beloved Sunday roast tradition with a variety of options. There are many different venues to indulge in this comforting classic, each adding its unique flair. Whether you’re in the mood for a no-frills hearty roast or a more refined experience, Abu Dhabi has a spot to satisfy every craving.
Afternoon Tea
If you thought an afternoon tea couldn’t get any more boujee, think again. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi has teamed up with KAYALI, the iconic perfumery owned by Mona Kattan, to create an unforgettable, sensory tea experience. Check out what Team Yalla thought of it!
For more information, call 02 694 4444
Sundowners and happy hours!
From trendy bars with stunning skyline views to cosy laid-back pubs, Abu Dhabi has a happy hour to suit every taste and mood. Discover some of the city’s best-kept secrets and must-visit venues with our ultimate list of happy hours and sundowners!
You might also like: Looking for more events in the capital? Check it out!
ARTSY THINGS TO DO IN ABU DHABI
Public Art Abu Dhabi
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Launching on 15 November 2024, the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial will unite over 70 contemporary artists from the UAE and across the globe in a celebration of creativity and community. Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Biennial runs until 30 April 2025 and will feature site-specific installations and performances in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
Museum day out
Whether you’re an explorer, art enthusiast or history buff, it’s always fun to ditch the typical midweek soirees in favour of exploring the UAE’s vibrant museum scene. You can expect the variety of museums across the country to offer unique and enriching experiences.
StuDIYo Lab
Located in Abu Dhabi Mall, StuDIYo Lab is offering kids a unique stone carving programme for young creators. Children will engage in the creative process of carving Soapstone under the guidance of experienced instructors. They will learn to file, shape, and polish their stones, turning them into imaginative designs such as orcas, seals and more!
For further information, visit StuDIYo Labs
FAMILY THINGS TO DO IN ABU DHABI
MOTN Festival
The eighth edition of Abu Dhabi’s iconic Mother of the Nation (MOTN) festival is returning with a cosmic twist – and it’s about to get more exciting than ever! Rife with family fun, live entertainment, the best food and more, it’s bigger and better than ever, of course.
Park Market
It’s back! Park Market will be home to a variety of vendors and SMEs, local businesses and a place where you can pick up the very best in fresh and organic produce, resin art candles, Abayas, Turkish fashion, antiques, crocheted items, silver accessories, customised hats and bags, skin care products, and perfumes.
For more information, visit Umm Al Emarat
Pool & Beach day out
Enjoy a refreshing dip in Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi’s temperature-controlled 50-meter infinity pool, overlooking the shimmering waters of the prestigious Arabian Gulf. Savour refreshing beverages and delectable nibbles by the poolside. With a dedicated kids’ pool on hand, it’s fun for the whole family.
For more info, call 02 510 1234
Theme park fun
Yas Island is the ultimate entertainment hub in Abu Dhabi, offering an action-packed mix of fun, thrills and relaxation. Known for an abundance of theme parks, there’s something for everyone from adrenaline junkies to those seeking a laid-back escape. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun-filled day or a pulse-racing experience, we’ve got you!
The Smash Mobile
Big fan of The Smash Room? Got some pent-up stress to release? Either way, The newly launched Smash Mobile is just what you need! Straight to your doorstep, the van can accommodate anywhere between four to 10 people at a time and is divided into two zones inside.
For more information, visit The Smash Room
BOUNCE
With over 25 activities, the all-new ‘Drop Zone’ featuring nine slides and the X-Run, the ultimate 36m obstacle course, floating a mind-bending seven metres above ground and a miniBOUNCE section for kids, it’s the ultimate hang!
For more information, call 04 304 9333
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