The capital is buzzing with action-packed events this weekend
This weekend, Abu Dhabi is bursting with festive energy, offering something for everyone.
Enjoy winter festivals, sparkling holiday markets, and live music performances that fill the city with cheer.
Families can explore interactive workshops, discover unique gifts at artisan stalls, and soak up the seasonal decorations and lights.
From playful entertainment for kids to vibrant performances for adults, there’s no shortage of fun and excitement.
Whether you’re looking for a day out with the family, an evening of music, or simply a stroll through festive celebrations, the capital has it all this weekend.
Best things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend
Abu Dhabi Mall Winter Village
From 10 December, Abu Dhabi Mall
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Step into the Winter Village at Abu Dhabi Mall this festive season! From twinkling lights and festive décor to Santa meet-and-greets, roaming performers, and charming artisan stalls, there’s fun for the whole family. Browse unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak up the holiday magic, a perfect way to celebrate the season in the heart of the capital.
For further information, visit Abu Dhabi Mall
Ars Nova Napoli live
12 December, Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
Ars Nova Napoli brings southern Italian music to life with a fresh twist, blending traditional songs and original compositions. Their Mediterranean-inspired melodies, tight harmonies, and infectious grooves create high-energy performances that appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. More than music, their shows are a celebration of community, fun, and the timeless joy of gathering together.
AED 75. For further information, visit Cultural Foundation
Christmas Tree Lightings
12 December, Yas Plaza Hotels and Erth Abu Dhabi
Get into the festive spirit at Abu Dhabi’s Christmas tree lightings! Watch as dazzling lights transform beautifully decorated trees into sparkling seasonal landmarks. Enjoy music, performances, and family-friendly activities while soaking up the holiday atmosphere. Perfect for capturing magical moments, these celebrations bring friends, families, and the community together to kick off the festive season in style.
Arabic Opera: Antar & Abla
12-14 December, Zayed Sports City
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Experience the magic of Arabic Opera Antar & Abla in Abu Dhabi this weekend! Running from 12–14 December 2025 at the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, the show blends classical vocals with cutting-edge immersive technology. Produced by Bidaya and Opera Lebanon and honored with the Mohammed bin Rashid Award, it’s a stunning fusion of heritage and innovation. And tickets are now free.
For further information, visit Platinumlist
Luxury Rewards at The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Till 14 December, The Galleria Al Maryah Island
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Start December in true Abu Dhabi style with Unlock Luxury Rewards at The Galleria Al Maryah Island. From 1–14 December, Darna Rewards members can enjoy 15 per cent back across more than 80 luxury brands, making it the perfect time to shop, explore, and indulge. Whether you’re discovering new collections, treating yourself, or finding the ideal gift, this limited-time experience brings elevated retail excitement to the long holiday weekend.
For further information, visit Darna Rewards
Arabian Days Festival
13-15 December, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
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The Arabian Days Festival celebrates the beauty and creativity of the Arabic language with music, art, literature, and technology. Through performances, workshops, and interactive sessions, visitors can explore new ways to express themselves and connect with heritage. Winner of the 2025 Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award, the festival bridges tradition and innovation in Abu Dhabi.
Free. For further information, visit Platinumlist
Yas Winter Fest
12 – 21 December, Yas Winter Fest, Yas Gateway Park
Yas Island is about to get magical! From 12-21 December, dive into Yas Winter Fest featuring 10 days of snowy fun, carnival rides, twinkling lights, and festive vibes everywhere you look. Stroll through sparkling snow parks, browse the artisan market for unique gifts, and soak up the music, games, and laughter. It’s winter wonderland fun for the whole family!
AED 25. For further information, visit Platinumlist
Mother of the Nation Festival
10 December-4 January, Abu Dhabi Corniche
Get ready for MOTN at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, running 10 December 2025 – 4 January 2026. From thrilling rides and live performances to interactive zones, delicious dining, and a festive shopping scene, there’s something for everyone. This is the perfect way to spend some quality time with the fam while the weather is so good!
AED 35. For further information, visit Mother Of The Nation Festival
Saadiyat Cultural District
From 3 December, Saadiyat Cultural District
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Discover Abu Dhabi’s newly opened cultural gems this December with visits to the Zayed National Museum and the Natural History Museum. From immersive galleries tracing the UAE’s 300,000-year history to fascinating displays of fossils, wildlife, and ecological wonders, these museums offer engaging experiences for all ages.
For further information, visit Saadiyat Cultural District
ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon 2025
13 December, Zayed Sports City
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Lace up your running shoes as the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon 2025 is almost here! Whether you’re an elite runner, a weekend jogger, or bringing the whole family along, this event promises scenic routes, a buzzing atmosphere, and plenty of fun. Come join the global running community and celebrate fitness, energy, and good vibes right in the heart of Abu Dhabi!
To register, visit ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon
Cinemacity Movie Marathon
1-31 December, Al Qana
Cinemacity is spreading festive cheer in Abu Dhabi this December with a Christmas Movie Marathon at Al Qana. Every Thursday and Friday, audiences can enjoy a seasonal double feature, from the timeless antics of Home Alone to the playful charm of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Special festive ticket bundles and gift-ready vouchers are available throughout the month, making it the perfect way to celebrate the holidays on the big screen.
For further information, visit Cinemacity
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Winter Camp
9-21 December, Saadiyat Cultural District
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Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Winter Camp is a fun, creative way for kids to spend their break. Over four colourful days, young artists explore how colour tells stories, experiment with hands-on art activities and even try out the roles of curator and conservator. It’s a playful, engaging programme that blends learning with imagination, perfect for curious, art-loving children.
AED 400. For further information, visit louvreabudhabi.ae
Pool Day at Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi
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Meet The Lean — Abu Dhabi’s highest suspended pool deck and your new place to sip, dip and float above the city. Perched 19 floors high inside the iconic leaning tower at Andaz Capital Gate, it’s all about handcrafted drinks, signature Bento Boxes, and mood-lit vibes. Whether you’re unwinding poolside or soaking up starlit beats, this elevated escape is pure skyline magic.
The Dip Club — Pool Access – Weekdays: AED 200 (fully redeemable), Weekends: AED 250 (fully redeemable), Private Cabana: AED 500 for 4 guests (AED 300 redeemable) + sparkling bottle. For bookings, call 02 596 1234
Astor’s Brunch at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Every Saturday, 12.30pm-4pm, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
The all-new Astor’s Brunch at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi brings all the sparkle of New York’s Gilded Age straight to The Terrace on the Corniche. Think caviar-topped blinis on arrival, smooth live jazz, chef-led stations from BBQ to dim sum, decadent desserts, a roaming Zodiac trolley, and even wellness elixirs to keep things balanced. With curated drinks and family-friendly touches, it’s a weekly dose of elegance, heritage, and pure indulgence.
AED 345 (soft drinks), AED 475 (Italian bubbly), and AED 680 (French bubbly). For further information, call 02 694 4444
Côte d’Azur brunch at Villa Selene
Saturdays, 12.30pm-4pm
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Fresh Mediterranean flavours, breezy Riviera vibes, and those dreamy Yas Links views, Villa Seléne’s Côte d’Azur brunch is the weekend treat you didn’t know you were missing. Think super-fresh seafood, colourful sharing plates, sparkling sips, and endless snaps overlooking one of the world’s Top 100 golf courses.
AED 240 (soft drinks) to AED 460 (bubbles). For further information, call 054 990 4246
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