What to do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) just hit a major milestone, welcoming a record-breaking 29.4 million passengers in 2024—a massive 28.1% jump from the previous year. A big part of this success comes from Etihad Airways, which flew passengers to over 125 destinations, adding 29 new routes in just one year. The airport also saw eight new airlines join its network, including British Airways, Air Astana, and Aegean Airlines. Aircraft movements increased by 10%, reaching 249,747 takeoffs and landings. Key travel markets like the UK, India, Qatar, and Egypt played a major role in this surge. Zayed International Airport isn’t...

Abu Dhabi residents are being reminded to keep their balconies and windows tidy — or risk a fine. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has recently issued a reminder about existing regulations that ban hanging laundry, carpets, or any type of covering on windows or balconies that face public roads. DMT posted on X (formerly Twitter) that this applies to placing drying racks outside windows or on balconies (Clause 12), as well as cleaning or displaying carpets and coverings in those same areas (Clause 15). These actions go against efforts to keep the city clean and well-organised. The fines...

Peppa Pig is heading to the capital this summer, and The Galleria Al Maryah Island is turning into her world. From July 18 to 27, families can explore a themed pop-up packed with interactive zones, live shows, and a special character appearance happening for the first time in the region. Here are all the details of this 10-day experience, taking place on Level 2, South Link Bridge.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Galleria Al Maryah Island (@thegalleriauae) Kids can step into Peppa’s town and try activities in familiar spots from the show:...

Nature lovers, get ready — Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi is set to open in September 2025, bringing the emirate its very first immersive butterfly sanctuary. Located next to The National Aquarium at Al Qana, this brand-new attraction promises a vibrant and hands-on experience with nature that’s as educational as it is visually stunning. The new indoor sanctuary will be home to over 10,000 butterflies, flitting freely across climate-controlled bio-domes that replicate tropical ecosystems from across the globe. The experience is designed to feel like a journey through lush rainforests, divided into two zones: Asia and the Americas. In the Americas...

For the first time ever, Abu Dhabi is hosting a professional surfing tournament, the Surf Abu Dhabi PRO, part of the World Surf League’s Championship Tour. This exciting event will take place from February 14 to 16 at Hudayriyat Island, offering fans a chance to witness some of the world’s best surfers in action. What to Expect at Surf Abu Dhabi PRO The competition brings a lineup of top-tier athletes, including 2024 WSL Champion Caity Simmers, Morocco’s leading surfer Ramzi Boukhiam, and Jack Robinson, Australia’s Olympic silver medalist. Olympic medalists Caroline Marks and Tatiana Weston-Webb will also showcase their talent...

For food enthusiasts in Abu Dhabi, HuQQabaz has brought its celebrated Turkish and Anatolian flavors to the UAE capital, making this spot an exciting new addition to the Marina Village. This popular restaurant, located on Al Alam Street, combines a rich menu inspired by Turkish traditions with a vibrant setting that emphasizes family-friendly, immersive dining. Since its launch in Istanbul in 2016, HuQQabaz has expanded globally, now operating in Azerbaijan, Dubai, Jordan, Kuwait, and more, with plans to reach 25 countries by the end of 2024. HuQQabaz Abu Dhabi’s unique design blends modern elegance with lush greenery and boasts a...

If you're driving in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, or Al Dhafra, there’s a good reason to check your traffic fines sooner rather than later. A new initiative from the Abu Dhabi Police — launched at Adnoc petrol stations — is reminding drivers to take advantage of a discount system. The campaign, titled “Act Now and Benefit,” encourage drivers to pay off their fines as soon as possible and save up to one third of the fine amount: Payments within 60 days of receiving a fine will give a driver 35% off Payments made within one year will give a 25%...

Ramadan in the Abu Dhabi is a time of special celebration. As the sun sets, the city transforms — majlis gatherings, night markets, and unique events bring people together to share in the spirit of the Holy Month. Among the many experiences to look forward to, Majlis The Rage 2025 stands out as a must-visit event in the capital this March. Running from March 13 to 16 at South Plaza, Al Maryah Island, this pop-up blends food, live entertainment, shopping, and cultural activities. Think of it as a modern take on a traditional Ramadan majlis, where friends and families gather...

Natural History Museum in Abu Dhabi is set to open on November 22, 2025, in the Saadiyat Cultural District. This new museum will take visitors on a fascinating journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history, offering an incredible exploration of life on Earth, from the Big Bang to the rise of humans. Here’s a glimpse at some of the amazing exhibits you can expect: Stan, a nearly complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, one of the most well-preserved specimens ever found A 25-meter female blue whale, giving you the chance to marvel at one of the largest creatures to have ever...

Monster trucks are gearing up for a big return to the UAE capital. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire is set to hit Etihad Arena on September 27, bringing back its crowd-pleasing mix of roaring engines, glowing lights, and high-energy stunts — this time with a fiery new twist. Back by popular demand, the family-friendly event will once again showcase a line-up of fan favourites including Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™, HW 5-Alarm™, Bone Shaker™, Bigfoot®, and Gunkster™.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live (@hotwheelsmonstertruckslive) Making its Abu Dhabi debut...