What to do in Abu Dhabi

If you haven't had time to check out the festive fun at Erth Hotel Abu Dhabi, this weekend is your last chance! The Mirbad Express pop-up is ending on January 14, so don’t miss out on all the cozy winter vibes, shopping, and seasonal magic before it’s gone. Whether you're planning a relaxed after-work stroll, a family outing, or a shopping trip with friends, this is the perfect way to experience the festive atmosphere. Now in its 19th edition, this winter pop-up has been transformed into a vintage-inspired train, complete with quaint cabins, warm lighting, and whimsical touches that create...

Abu Dhabi has introduced a new rule aimed at protecting three of the emirate’s most iconic native trees: Al Ghaf, Al Samar, and Al Sidr. Under the latest directive from the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), any individual found damaging these trees will face a fine of AED 10,000. The new rule reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to preserving its natural environment. Each of these trees will now be officially coded and numbered, making them trackable and legally protected. The regulation is designed to prevent any unauthorized trimming, removal, or harm — whether through landscaping, development, or accidental damage. These...

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi is set to unveil an exciting addition: the Light and Peace museum, promising visitors a cultural journey like no other. Recently inaugurated by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, this innovative museum embodies the UAE’s commitment to fostering peace, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue. Sheikh Mansour toured the museum alongside senior officials, exploring its rich offerings that delve deep into the history and contributions of Islamic civilization. Through its exhibitions, the museum promotes the values of harmony and coexistence, blending art,...

Something exciting is popping up in Abu Dhabi, and you won’t want to miss it! The Cove House Festival is transforming Umm Al Emarat Park into a buzzing hub of music, fashion, and fantastic food from February 13 to 16.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Umm Al Emarat Park (@ummalemaratpark) Music lovers, get ready for an eclectic mix of live performances. From soulful oud melodies to rhythmic percussion beats, the festival’s lineup is packed with talent. Catch regional artists like Sami Al Naaman, Ali Atheer, Nasar Abo Hamdan, and Chafik Jabbari, plus captivating violin...

Planning to head out in Abu Dhabi this week? Before you hit the road, there’s something you should know about upcoming road closures on December 25-29. If you’re driving along King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, here are all the details you need to know. Closure start on Thursday, December 25 at 11 PM Closure end on Monday, December 29 at 5 AM During these times, certain intersections will be closed, but some lanes will still remain open to keep traffic flowing. The affected areas are marked in red on the map below (provided by AD Mobility). To avoid...

One of Abu Dhabi’s most historic landmarks is welcoming visitors once again. Al Maqta Museum, located inside the beautifully restored Maqta Fort, has officially reopened following a full revamp led by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Abu Dhabi Police. This latest restoration is part of an ongoing push to preserve the capital’s cultural heritage — and for history lovers, it’s well worth the visit. The building has deep roots in Abu Dhabi’s story. Back in the 1950s, long before Maqta Bridge connected Abu Dhabi Island to the mainland, this site served as...

Liwa desert in Abu Dhabi is about to become a major set once again. Denis Villeneuve is returning to the UAE to shoot Dune: Part 3, the latest chapter in his epic saga. This means the arrival of Hollywood stars Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, walking across the endless sands of the UAE — with the desert’s beauty to be captured once again as the fictional planet Arrakis. Filming for the highly anticipated movie will start later this year. The vast, cinematic dunes of Liwa desert are ideal for reflecting the power and scale of the film and have become as...

Eid celebrations in the UAE just got even more exciting! This festive season, some of the country’s top attractions are offering special discounts, making it the perfect time to explore, unwind, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for thrilling theme parks, serene desert experiences, or unique dining options, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of attractions with fantastic Eid Al Fitr discounts. Theme Parks Dubai Parks and Resorts – Motiongate, Legoland & Legoland Waterpark (22% Off) Step into a world of endless excitement at Dubai Parks and Resorts, home to three incredible theme parks....

Abu Dhabi has a new reason to get excited about fried chicken. BonBird, the UAE-born fried chicken concept that’s gone international, has just opened its first-ever location in the capital. You’ll find it in Gardens Plaza, Khalifa City, now serving up golden, crunchy chicken daily from 10 AM to 1 AM. The new space offers seating for up to 60 guests and brings the same laid-back charm and fuss-free comfort that BonBird has become known for. It’s also available for delivery on Talabat and Deliveroo — ideal for those fried chicken cravings at home.     View this post on...

Power Slap, the world’s leading slap fighting league, is coming back to Abu Dhabi on Friday, October 24, as part of this year’s Abu Dhabi Showdown Week. After a packed-out debut last year, the event is set to take over Space42 Arena for its second appearance in the capital. Organisers have yet to announce the official fight card, but fans can register their interest now to be among the first to know when tickets are released. The return of Power Slap is expected to deliver a night of high-stakes matchups and intense action.     View this post on Instagram...