Time to get planning…
Looking for the ultimate weekend plans in Abu Dhabi?
This weekend, the capital is bursting with unforgettable experiences for every taste. Watch the world’s best longboarders glide at Surf Abu Dhabi, or feel the adrenaline at Power Slap 16 and UFC 321.
Catch the GKA Kite World Tour soaring over Fahid Island, groove to Maxi Meraki’s Melodic House by the beach, and immerse yourself in culture with the 33rd Arab Music Festival.
Foodies can indulge at Taste of Shangri-La, and wellness seekers can unwind at The St. Regis Spa. Plus, don’t miss the grand reopening of Al Ain Museum, blending heritage and modern design.
Whether it’s sports, music, food, or family fun, Abu Dhabi has your weekend plans sorted
The best things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi
Power Slap championships returns
24 October
Power Slap 16 lands in Abu Dhabi on 24 October 2025 at Space42 Arena. This no-holds-barred slap fighting showdown promises adrenaline-pumping drama, edge-of-your-seat tension, and unforgettable spectacle. Highlight matchups include heavyweight titans Wolverine vs Alan Klingbeil, bringing raw power and intensity to the arena. Tickets are on sale now, so grab them now to watch this visceral combat experience.
AED 150. For further information, visit Ticketmaster
Witness an inspiring art exhibition at The Art Gallery at NYUAD
Open daily, Saadiyat Island
Dive into Ala Younis’ two-decade-spanning exhibition at NYUAD, exploring how archives, architecture, and personal narratives shape regional history. Featuring films, mosaics, drawings, textiles, and archival assemblages, some created for this show, others reimagined from past projects, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on how memory is formed, erased, and reconstructed over time.
For further information, visit NYUAD Art Gallery
Fly high at the GKA Kite World Tour
25 October to 2 November
View this post on Instagram
The GKA Kite World Tour is making waves in Abu Dhabi with a thrilling Hydrofoil Big Air and Freestyle Kite World Cup, proudly sponsored by Aldar. Set against the stunning Fahid Island coastline, the world’s top kiteboarders will dazzle spectators with soaring aerials, cutting-edge hydrofoil stunts, and high-speed action. Get ready for a weekend of world-class sport, adrenaline, and electric atmosphere on the water.
For further information, visit GKA Kite World Tour
Go E-Dragon boating at Jubail Island Mangrove Park
Daily, Jubail island
Experience the serene beauty of Jubail Island Mangrove Park aboard an electric dragon boat. This one-hour guided tour offers a tranquil journey through Abu Dhabi’s lush mangrove forests, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts. The eco-friendly boats glide silently across the water, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity and calm surroundings.
For further information, visit Jubail Island
Fight Night at UFC 321
25 October
UFC 321: Aspinall vs Gane is set this weekend at Etihad Arena, marking the UFC’s return to Abu Dhabi. The main event sees Tom Aspinall defend his heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane, while the card also features a women’s strawweight title bout between Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern. Anchoring Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, UFC 321 promises high-stakes action, elite matchups, and unforgettable fight-night drama.
AED 495. For further information, visit ufc.com
Basketball fever at Marina Mall
25-26 October, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
View this post on Instagram
Abu Dhabi Sports Council is hosting top-tier 3×3 basketball action featuring teams from Amsterdam, Mongolia, Germany, Bahrain, and more. Following last year’s success, ADSC expects this event to further cement Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global sports hub. With a total prize pool of around $200,000 to be shared among the winning teams, fans can anticipate thrilling games and elite-level competition.
For further information, visit FIBA 3X3
You might also like: Yas Island is getting a fun new indoor golf spot
Catch a wave at the WSL Longboard Tour
24-26 October, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi
The WSL Longboard Tour returns to Surf Abu Dhabi this weekend, bringing three days of epic waves, surf vibes, and top-tier longboard action. Grab your friends, find a spot on the hill, and watch the world’s best carve and glide for glory. Entry to the Surf Village is free, with food trucks, a rooftop bar, and on Finals Day, a live set from Donavon Frankenreiter. You can also enjoy a full-day packages all weekend at Nalu, including drinks, bites, pool access, and kids’ entertainment, then keep the energy going with the Abu Dhabi House Movement party at Ilios later that night.
Free. For further information, follow @surfabudhabi on IG
Witness DJ Maxi Meraki at Fahid Beach Club
25 October, 8pm
View this post on Instagram
Belgian producer and DJ Maxi Meraki takes over the decks for an exclusive Melodic House night by the beach at Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa. Known for hits like Dare Your Move, If You Need It, and Everybody Get Up, and remixes of Rüfüs Du Sol and Mahmut Orhan, Meraki delivers emotive, immersive sets. Expect deep rhythms, creative energy, and a vibrant beachside atmosphere.
AED 250. For bookings, visit Fahid Beach Club
Experience the 33rd Arab Music Festival
24-26 October, Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
View this post on Instagram
Timeless music awaits this weekend at the 33rd Arab Music Festival. The first night honors Om Kalthoum with masterpieces performed by Reham Abdel Hakim, conducted by Mohamed Elmougy. On night two, Marwa Nagy pays tribute to Warda El Djazairia, conducted by Ahmed Amer. The festival concludes with Hany Shaker reviving Abdel Halim Hafez, conducted by Alaa Abdelsalam — an unforgettable celebration of Arab musical legacy.
AED 300. For bookings, visit Platinumlist
Try a day trip to Al Ain Museum
Opening on 24 October
One of Al Ain’s heritage treasures is back — Al Ain Museum reopens on 24 October after a major facelift. Founded in 1969 by the UAE’s late Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the museum was the nation’s first. Now expanded to an 8,000-square-metre space, it seamlessly blends the original charm with sleek, modern design, preserving Emirati history while offering a fresh, contemporary visitor experience.
For further information, visit DCT
Savour a global feast at Taste of Shangri-La
Throughout October
This October, Abu Dhabi food lovers can indulge in Taste of Shangri-La at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri. At Shang Palace, enjoy a curated three-course menu featuring signature Dim Sum and classic Cantonese dishes, crafted with bold flavours and exquisite presentation. Over at Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard, Michelin-starred chef Nicolas Isnard presents a four-course French tasting menu paired with fine wines, delivering a month-long celebration of culinary mastery and sophistication.
For bookings and further information, visit Shangri-La Experiences
Unwind at The Spa at The St. Regis
Open Friday to Sunday, 11am–11pm
View this post on Instagram
Escape the weekend hustle at The Spa at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. This weekend, treat yourself to indulgent midweek escapes or deeply restorative detox rituals designed to refresh your body and mind. With expert treatments, serene surroundings, and the signature St. Regis luxury, every visit transforms relaxation into a true ritual. Make this weekend all about you – unwind, recharge, and step into pure tranquility.
Monday to Thursday: 11am–10pm; Friday to Sunday: 11am–11pm. For bookings, call 02 694 4100
Follow Yalla for all the latest news