What to do in Abu Dhabi

Formula 1 is officially set to return to Abu Dhabi for the 2026 season finale. The Yas Marina Circuit will once again close out the championship in style, with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix taking place from December 4 to 6, 2026. Before the final lap in the UAE capital, however, all eyes will be on the build-up happening across Spain and Bahrain. The 2026 F1 season begins with testing sessions that set the pace for the year. Here are their dates and locations: January 26–30: Private test at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain February 11–13: Official session at Bahrain International...

The 17th edition of the Asia Cup will take place from September 9 to 28, 2025, across venues in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Played in the T20 format, this year’s tournament brings together eight national teams and a full schedule of high-stakes cricket, including the highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan. As defending champions, India are expected to face intense competition. The format divides the eight teams into two groups, with each side playing three matches in the group stage. The top two from each group will proceed to the Super Four, followed by the final on September 28....

While there are many moments to celebrate, every country also has days marked by loss. January 17 is observed as the Day of Solidarity in UAE. It marks the anniversary of the 2022 attack that targeted civilian areas. Since then, the date has stood as a reminder of resilience, unity, and collective strength. This Saturday, helicopters and fighter jets will fly across the country. This aerial display reflects the idea of unity in a very literal way, connecting cities and emirates. The route begins in Abu Dhabi and continues through all seven emirates until Fujairah. If you’re planning to watch...

Abu Dhabi is powering ahead with its clean mobility goals. In a major step towards a more sustainable future, Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced the installation of 1,000 new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across 400 locations throughout the emirate. The rollout covers Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, marking the first phase of a long-term EV infrastructure plan. All new charging points will be unified under the Charge AD brand, with standardised pricing: AED 0.70 per kWh for AC (alternating current) chargers AED 1.20 per kWh for DC (direct current) fast chargers The initiative supports the UAE’s...

If you’re looking for something truly unique in Abu Dhabi, Diya Experience at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-visit. This new multi-sensory light projection is housed inside the mosque’s Dome of Peace, and it’s as mesmerizing as it sounds. The immersive experience combines light, sound, air, and vibrations to tell powerful stories of spirituality and the rich history of the UAE. As you journey through the experience, you’ll be transported across stunning landscapes, from green oases to towering mountains, serene coastlines, and golden deserts, before making your way to the majestic minarets and domes of the mosque. Diya Experience...

Drivers in Abu Dhabi should be aware of upcoming road closures and diversions as part of ongoing infrastructure improvements. The Integrated Transport Centre (AD Mobility) has announced temporary traffic changes via their official X account. Check the maps of affected areas and dates of road closures in Abu Dhabi below. Nahyan The First Street Diversion – Zakhir Roundabout, Al Ain Duration: Wednesday, April 2 (12 AM) to Sunday, April 13 (5 AM) A temporary diversion will be in place. Drivers are advised to use alternative roads. Jacques Chirac Street Closure – Saadiyat Island Duration: March 29 – June 30 (3...

Yas Island continues its transformation into one of the UAE’s most desirable destinations with a new addition that blends luxury, lifestyle, and location. Aldar Properties, a real estate development company owned by the Abu Dhabi government, has officially teamed up with Hilton to launch the first Waldorf Astoria Residences in Abu Dhabi — and the spotlight is firmly on Yas. This marks two major milestones: the first branded residential project of its kind on Yas Island, and the debut of Waldorf Astoria’s residential brand in the UAE capital. It also signals a fresh chapter in high-end real estate on the...

If you're an art lover in Abu Dhabi, there's an event you definitely don’t want to miss. Sotheby’s is presenting an extraordinary collection of masterpieces featuring works from some of the most renowned artists in history, including Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Edvard Munch, and more. This exclusive event, happening on October 1 and 2, will be held at Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island, showing artworks valued collectively at USD 150 million. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bassam Freiha Art Foundation (@bassamfreihaartfoundation) The exhibition will feature a selection of iconic paintings, some of which...

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...

Ramadan nights have their own rhythm. You break fast, head out late in the evening, and suddenly it’s midnight and no one’s ready to go home. If you’re looking for a place that matches that mood, Layali Ramadan 2026 is back in Abu Dhabi for this Holy Month, and it’s bringing Suhoor under the stars to Saadiyat Island once again. Back for its second season, the festival turns an open-air spot into a Suhoor destination throughout the entire month. The setup is simple and stylish: lanterns, comfortable seating, and plenty of space. This season, the Suhoor menu is curated by...