What to do in Abu Dhabi - Latest News

Dalma Island is getting a major boost in connectivity with the launch of two new ferries — Dalma and Al Dhanna. These vessels are to improve maritime connectivity to Jebel Dhanna and Dalma Island and make travel to these two destinations more efficient and accessible. Five Facts about New Abu Dhabi-Dalma Island Ferries: 1. Rediced travel time: only 40 minutes one way (compared to 2 hours before) 2. Each of the new ferries makes two trips per day 3. Huge capacity: each ferry can transport 193 passengers + 25 vehicles 4. Better accessibility: two internal elevators onboard to support people...

BRABUS, the German name best known for bold supercars and ultra-high-performance engineering, is shifting lanes — into luxury real estate. The brand has announced plans for its first residential megaproject: a custom-built private island in Abu Dhabi. BRABUS Island will take shape in the Al Seef District, spread across 100,000 square metres of prime coastal land. The plan includes 450 high-end residences, with a mix of 350 apartments and 100 waterfront or beachfront villas. Apartment sizes will range from 1,100 to 5,000 square feet, with layouts offering two to four bedrooms. For those looking to go bigger, the standalone villas...

Monster trucks are gearing up for a big return to the UAE capital. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire is set to hit Etihad Arena on September 27, bringing back its crowd-pleasing mix of roaring engines, glowing lights, and high-energy stunts — this time with a fiery new twist. Back by popular demand, the family-friendly event will once again showcase a line-up of fan favourites including Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™, HW 5-Alarm™, Bone Shaker™, Bigfoot®, and Gunkster™.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live (@hotwheelsmonstertruckslive) Making its Abu Dhabi debut...

If you’re into rock music, mark your calendar — Guns N’ Roses are heading back to Abu Dhabi on May 27. It’s been two years since they last played in the UAE capital, and once again, they’ll be bringing their unmistakable energy and iconic sound to the stage. For those who need a quick refresher: the band formed back in the wild days of 1980s Los Angeles, blending hard rock with a punk edge and a touch of glam. Their debut album "Appetite for Destruction" released almost 40 years ago became a rock milestone, thanks to tracks like "Welcome to...

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...

Nature lovers, get ready — Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi is set to open in September 2025, bringing the emirate its very first immersive butterfly sanctuary. Located next to The National Aquarium at Al Qana, this brand-new attraction promises a vibrant and hands-on experience with nature that’s as educational as it is visually stunning. The new indoor sanctuary will be home to over 10,000 butterflies, flitting freely across climate-controlled bio-domes that replicate tropical ecosystems from across the globe. The experience is designed to feel like a journey through lush rainforests, divided into two zones: Asia and the Americas. In the Americas...

Hotels across Abu Dhabi are set to introduce facial recognition technology as part of a new initiative to enhance guest safety and streamline operations. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) confirmed that the system will first be implemented in five-star hotels across Abu Dhabi city, the Al Ain Region, and the Al Dhafra Region, before expanding to four-star hotels and eventually all hotel categories. The project, overseen by the Licensing & Regulatory Compliance Department of DCT Abu Dhabi, supports the emirate’s long-standing reputation for safety, having been named the world’s safest city in Numbeo’s...

Exciting news for waterpark fans: Yas Waterworld on Yas Island is set to expand in a big way this summer. Miral, the developer behind some of Abu Dhabi’s top attractions, has confirmed that the park will be adding 12 brand-new rides and slides, plus fresh dining options, just in time for the hotter months. The expansion introduces a new themed zone called The Lost City, building on the park’s original Legend of the Lost Pearl story. Expect hidden treasures, secret passages, and plenty of surprises woven into the new attractions. Here are some hints at what to expect at Yas...

Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a full-body challenge like no other as HYROX, the world’s largest indoor fitness race, makes its UAE capital debut on Saturday, July 19 at ADNEC. The event will be a key feature of this year’s Abu Dhabi Summer Sports (ADSS), promising sweat, strength, and serious stamina. Whether you're a seasoned lifter, a cardio junkie, or someone who loves a challenge, HYROX Abu Dhabi offers a competitive but accessible fitness experience for all levels.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by HYROX America (@hyroxamerica) What is HYROX? HYROX is a...

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...