What to do in Abu Dhabi

There's a new app in the UAE, and if you enjoy a good deal, it's worth knowing about. Peekabox lets you pick up surprise boxes from restaurants, cafés, bakeries, grocery stores, and even hotel buffets for 50% to 70% less than the usual price. The catch? You won't know exactly what's inside until you collect it. At the end of the day, cafés, bakeries, supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels pack fresh unsold food into surprise boxes. One day it could be pastries from a bakery, another day it might be sushi, prepared meals, coffee shop favourites, grocery items, or food from...

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...

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,...

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...

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...

Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s dining scene is no stranger to global recognition, and the latest MENA’s Top 50 Restaurants list proves it. If you're a food lover, you’ll be pleased to know that many of the region’s best dining spots are right here in the UAE. Let’s take a look at the standouts that made the list in 2026. MENA’s Top Restaurants in Dubai for 2026 Dubai is clearly dominating, with seven dining spots mentioned in the top 10: Kinoya (2) Trèsind Studio (3) Orfali bros (4) Surfet Maryam (7) Jun’s (8) Manao (9) Moonrise (10) It’s no surprise that...

Ever wondered what actually goes on inside those members-only places you can’t just walk into? Abu Dhabi is giving you a way in, but only for a short time. There's a new venue opened inside Cinemacity Starlight at Marina Mall, and throughout May 2026, you can walk in without needing a membership. 1927 calls itself a house devoted to film, music, and the art of gathering, which pretty much sums it up. It’s the kind of place you go to depending on your mood. Some nights that might mean watching a film. Other times it’s dinner, drinks, or staying for...

As the year draws to a close, Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a spectacular celebration to welcome 2024. From masquerade balls to beachside galas, the capital will be jam-packed with exciting events for ringing in the New Year. Here's a list of the best places to celebrate New Year's Eve in Abu Dhabi to help you plan your day. Best Places to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Abu Dhabi Andrea Bocelli Live at Emirates Palace The elegant Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental will host Andrea Bocelli on New Year’s Eve, offering guests a unique opportunity to enjoy his timeless melodies...

If you've been waiting for a big night in Abu Dhabi, mark your calendar for this July. UFC Fight Night returns to Yas Island on Saturday, July 25, bringing a packed lineup of fights to Etihad Arena. Leading the card is a light heavyweight title showdown between champion Magomed Ankalaev and knockout specialist Khalil Rountree Jr. The co-main event features Umar Nurmagomedov (20-1) vs David Martinez (14-1). With both fighters carrying impressive winning records, expect a tough battle inside the Octagon. Those two fights alone are worth seeing live. If you're planning to be there on July 25, secure your...

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...