What to do in Abu Dhabi

Open Fire Food Festival (OFFF) by Steve Harvey is coming back to Abu Dhabi for its second edition, setting Etihad Park ablaze with bold flavours, smoky grills, and live-fire cooking. The two-day event takes place on November 8 and 9, 2025, bringing together celebrity chefs, pitmasters, music, and family-friendly activities. What Is the Open Fire Food Festival by Steve Harvey? Founded around Steve Harvey’s love for authentic barbecue and live-fire cooking, the Open Fire Food Festival was created to bring authentic American-style BBQ culture to the region. The American entertainer, comedian, and long-time TV host is also a self-professed barbecue...

Get ready, Abu Dhabi – Mamma Mia! is heading your way this June, and there’s something extra in store. Alongside the much-loved musical, a special pre-show brunch event called Bites & Bubbles is being added to the experience – but only for a limited time. This unique pre-show brunch will run for four days only: June 13–14 and June 20–21. It’s available on Friday and Saturday evenings as an optional add-on for those attending the show. Once you book your musical ticket, you’ll receive an email with the option to buy brunch access.     View this post on Instagram...

Abu Dhabi Showdown Week 2024 is almost here, promising not only top-tier MMA action but an entire citywide celebration packed with activities for fans. From October 21 to October 27, this adrenaline-pumping week will be filled with thrilling events and performances. In its sixth edition, Abu Dhabi Showdown Week promises an unforgettable week for fight enthusiasts and event-goers.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by UFC (@ufc) Fight Fan Highlights UFC Open Workouts (October 23) Start your week by watching UFC stars train up close at Yas Mall. This fan-favorite event gives you a rare...

Good news for pet owners! Abu Dhabi has updated its laws, allowing pets to join their owners at hotels and restaurants with tourism licenses. This change means you can now bring your furry friends along for the adventure when you visit. Previously, pets were only allowed in restaurants if they were certified service animals. But now, cats and dogs are welcome at many public venues, making Abu Dhabi more pet-friendly than ever. Here’s what these venues are required to offer to ensure both pets and guests have a great experience: Designated outdoor areas for animals, such as patios, balconies, or...

Celebrate the magic of the season at Winter Festival at Al Qana in Abu Dhabi! Until 14 January 2025, this event transforms the picturesque waterfront into a winter wonderland filled with joy, entertainment, and creative activities for all ages. The Al Qana Winter Festival is more than just an event — it’s an experience designed to bring family and friends together. Visitors can explore: A vibrant seasonal market: Stroll through the market, brimming with artisanal products, festive treats, and unique gifts to bring the holiday spirit home. Engaging children’s workshops: Keep the little ones entertained with hands-on crafts and activities,...

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:...

The holy month of Ramadan concludes with Eid Al Fitr, one of the most important holidays for Muslims. If you’ve been waiting for clarity on upcoming days off, the Eid Al Fitr holiday dates 2026 have now been officially confirmed for both the public and private sector in the UAE. The UAE Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) have announced the official schedule. For federal government employees in the UAE, the Eid Al Fitr holiday dates 2026 are: The break will last from Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22...

It’s a perfect time to plan your 2026 travels and save big on airfares! Etihad Airways has announced a Black Friday sale offering up to 35% off flights. Whether you’re looking for a beach escape or a cultural adventure, there’s something for every traveller. Eager to book your next adventure? Here are all the details on Etihad's Black Friday sale: The sale includes discounted flights to over 60 destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond. It covers popular cities across the world, giving you the chance to secure your next trip at a discounted price. You can travel between January 13...

If your child uses AI tools for homework, projects, or even just to look up ideas, this update from the UAE Ministry of Education is worth your attention. The UAE bans use of generative AI in schools under a new 2026 guide. It outlines 25 rules for how these tools can – and can’t – be used in classrooms. Students under 13 are not allowed to use generative AI tools at all. The same applies to children in grades below Grade 7. Academic Honesty: No AI-written Homework without Approval When it comes to homework and projects, students cannot submit AI-generated...

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...