What to do in Abu Dhabi

SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi is turning up the glow again. The Electric Ocean Festival is back for summer 2025. Running daily from June 28 to August 31, this vibrant festival brings together lights, music, movement, and marine magic – all wrapped in an underwater neon glow. The action centres around the One Ocean realm, where breakdancers, drummers, aerial acrobats, and SeaWorld’s own characters — Sakina, SeaStar, Puck, and Shivers — take over with dazzling performances. Each evening kicks off with a pre-show party to set the mood, and from there, it’s a full evening of shows and surprises.    ...

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have introduced tougher penalties to address the issue of liquid waste being dumped in public areas. The Abu Dhabi City Municipality is reminding residents and business owners not to release liquid waste into streets or open spaces, as this affects both public hygiene and the city’s appearance. According to Clause No. 35 of Law No. 2 of 2012, the fines for liquid waste violations start at AED 1,000 for a first offense. A second offense can result in a fine of AED 2,000, and repeated violations may lead to penalties of up to AED 4,000. The...

Abu Dhabi is introducing new traffic safety measure focused on some of the emirate’s busiest and fastest roads. Starting next week, delivery motorcycles will no longer be allowed on roads with speed limits of 120 km/h or higher. When introducing the new rule, AD Mobility highlighted that roads with heavy and fast-moving traffic can present higher risks for delivery riders and drivers. In 2026, Abu Dhabi ranked as the world’s safest city for the tenth year in a row, and such measures are part of the reason why. The restriction also applies to part of Sheikh Zayed Street between Sheikh...

Planning a summer trip? Etihad flight sale might be the push you needed to finally book it. The airline has launched a limited-time global sale with up to 30% off fares from the UAE to more than 60 destinations. Quick Eid getaways, longer summer holidays with family, and even early autumn trips are all included (dates on selected destinations stretch through October). The return tickets start from AED 995 on selected routes. You can book the discounted fares by Etihad until May 14. Another detail travellers may appreciate: Etihad currently has no change fees on flights booked for travel until...

Getting kids off screens after a full day of online learning isn’t always easy. If you’re looking for something simple and creative to fill that gap, Lush UAE is offering free after-school sessions. Until April 30, the brand's stores are hosting daily sessions for children and teens who want to do something hands-on. There’s no booking required. You can walk in at any time during the session hours, which makes it easy to fit around school schedules or last-minute plans. Session timings: Monday to Thursday: 3 PM to 6 PM Friday: 12 PM to 6 PM All sessions are free...

The UAE’s Presidential Court has announced Union March, a national parade that will bring together Emiratis in celebration of the country’s 54th National Day. The event will take place on December 4, 2025, at Sheikh Zayed Festival site in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, marking one of the most anticipated moments of this year’s National Day festivities. Union March invites citizens to take part in a proud display of unity, heritage, and patriotism. It’s a chance for Emiratis to stand shoulder to shoulder, honoring the nation’s founding values and the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Participation...

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...

Planning your Eid Al Adha evenings in Abu Dhabi? Head to Qasr Al Hosn for a traditional celebration filled with interactive music sessions and live cultural performances. “Rhythms of Tradition” will take place on two evenings on May 27 and 28. The programme draws inspiration from traditional Emirati art forms. Guests will take part in guided rhythm sessions and musical moments that focus on movement, sound, and shared participation. If your Eid plans already include exploring Abu Dhabi, this celebration at Qasr Al Hosn might be worth adding to your evening list. Location: Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans Dates:...

There’s something different about exercising at sunset. The peak heat starts to fade, golden hour settles in, and the views look even better. If you’re looking for a fitness event to join before summer arrives, Beyond The Sunset 2026 returns to Abu Dhabi this May with different activities. All events take place at Hudayriyat Island during golden hour. The 2026 schedule includes: May 9: Run (sold out) May 10: Swim May 16: Ride May 17: Skate Swim events happen at Marsana Beach, and cycling and skating take place at the Hudayriyat Cycle track along the waterfront. Beyond The Sunset welcomes...

Step into the spirit of Ramadan at Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone fort. This historic site transforms into a cultural hub during the holy month, offering a mix of storytelling, live performances, and traditional Emirati experiences. Visitors can explore an array of activities, including: Ramadan Majlis – gather in an open majlis to hear captivating stories and discussions Poetry & Live Oud Music – enjoy the beauty of Arabic poetry and the soulful sounds of the Oud Children’s Activities – engaging programs designed to entertain and educate young visitors House of Artisans – discover Emirati crafts and heritage...