What to do in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region is set to host one of the most beloved cultural events of the year—the Liwa Date Festival. Scheduled to run from July 15 to July 28, this festival is a tribute to the UAE's rich agricultural heritage and a celebration of its thriving date farming industry. Now in its 20th year, the Liwa Date Festival has grown into a significant event that not only highlights the importance of date farming but also supports and uplifts the farmers of the region. This festival serves as a platform for sharing the latest agricultural techniques and knowledge about...

As Eid Al Adha approaches, residents across the UAE are preparing for a long weekend filled with spiritual reflection and festive gatherings. Falling on Friday, June 6, with Arafah Day on Thursday, June 5, the 2025 holiday will bring a four-day break from Thursday to Sunday (June 5–8) for both the public and private sectors. While the holiday brings well-earned time off and joyful celebrations, its core begins with a spiritual start: Eid prayer. This year, Eid Al Adha coincides with Jumuah (Friday) prayers, marking a particularly significant moment for the Muslim community. The UAE Fatwa Council has confirmed that...

Stargazing season in the UAE wraps up with one final celestial event this summer. On Saturday, July 26, Dubai Astronomy is hosting its last Milky Way observation night of the season at Al Quaa Desert in Abu Dhabi — known for its dark, clear skies and minimal light pollution. Whether you’re into constellations or curious about capturing the night sky through a lens, this event is geared toward beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. The night includes a sky mapping session, a crash course in astrophotography, and a guided photo opportunity to capture the galaxy in full view.     View...

Get ready for an unforgettable night of soul-stirring melodies and enchanting performances as the sensational Majid al Mohandis is set to grace the stage at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi on March 1st! This promises to be a musical night like no other, with the celebrated Iraqi singer ready to captivate the audience with his mesmerizing voice and charismatic stage presence. Get ready to be blown away by his powerful vocals and emotionally charged performances. Known for his ability to convey deep emotions through his music, Mohandis has become a household name in the Arab music scene, earning...

Tennis enthusiasts, get ready for an unforgettable experience as the World Tennis League (WTL) makes its highly anticipated return to Abu Dhabi! From December 19 to 22, Etihad Arena will host the third edition of what’s being billed as The Greatest Show on Court, with tennis superstars and thrilling matches set to electrify the city. This year's World Tennis League promises to be a must-go event for fans and thrill-seekers alike. It will bring together 16 of the world’s top tennis talents, split into 4 fierce teams, battling for the championship in a format that combines the intensity of professional...

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...

A photo goes viral, everyone starts sharing it, and a few hours later people realise it was fake. AI-edited images and videos can spread misinformation, damage reputations, and create panic very quickly. Manipulated content is getting much harder to spot with the naked eye, but a young UAE researcher may have found a solution. During her master’s studies at Zayed University, Bashayer Al Salami spent time researching digital threats and AI manipulation online. The research later turned into Deepy, a platform that checks uploaded photos, videos, and audio clips and tells users whether the content may have been artificially altered....

Traveling to Dubai from Emirates soon? You're in for a special treat! If you're booking a return flight – be it in the economy, business, or first class – between January 12 and February 1, 2024, for travel before March 31, 2024, the airline is turning your journey into an adventure by offering free tickets to two of Dubai's must-visit spots – the Museum of the Future and Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark. Here's the lowdown on grabbing those free tickets: Book your flights online at emirates.com, through the Emirates call center, at an Emirates ticketing office, or simply through your favorite...

Ever wondered how a Marvel hero spends a family holiday? Chris Hemsworth has just shared a look at his latest trip to Abu Dhabi, and it doubles as a pretty impressive itinerary for anyone planning a visit to the UAE capital. On June 3, the actor posted a video on social media featuring his Abu Dhabi adventure with wife Elsa Pataky and their children. The family explored the city's cultural attractions, historic sites, beaches, and desert experiences, showing just how much can fit into one trip. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chris Hemsworth (@chrishemsworth) "Our family...

Experience the essence of Ramadan at Emirates Park Zoo and Resort, where tradition meets adventure in an enchanting atmosphere. Break your fast under elegantly decorated tents, savoring a delectable Iftar buffet filled with a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes. Unique experience will be available from February 28 until March 28, 2025. Looking to make the evening truly extraordinary? Opt for the VIP Iftar with Animals, starting at 260 AED per person, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience alongside giraffes, elephants, and other fascinating creatures. The festive energy continues with mesmerizing cultural performances, from dazzling Tanoora dances to the soulful...