What to do in Abu Dhabi

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...

If you've been long looking for a place where the pressures of daily life melt away, and you are surrounded by serenity, Kayan Wellness Festival 2026 is exactly what you need to experience this winter. The award-winning event returns for its second edition on February 6-8. For three days, the festival will become your peaceful sanctuary on the shores of Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi. This immersive experience is designed to rejuvenate every part of you — mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re seeking mental clarity, physical vitality, or spiritual alignment, the festival offers the perfect opportunity to reset and...

Get ready for a brand-new hotspot in Abu Dhabi! Soho Beach is opening its doors on Yas Island at Yas Beach on Friday, April 4, 2025. This beach club promises to be the next big thing in the city's party scene. Soho Beach Yas Island combines relaxation with excitement. With stunning white sands, crystal-clear waters, and views of the natural mangroves, it’s the perfect place to unwind or join in the fun.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Soho Beach Yas Island (@sohobeach.yasisland) Whether you're lounging by the infinity pool or enjoying delicious meals,...

Air India Express is celebrating India's 79th Independence Anniversary with an incredible Freedom Sale, offering huge discounts on both domestic and international flights. This exciting sale covers 5 million seats, so there are plenty of opportunities to score affordable tickets for travel from the UAE to India and other destinations. Bookings are open until August 15, 2025. You can book through Air India Express’ website, mobile app, or any other major booking channels. For this Freedom Sale, the airline is offering affordable fares for both domestic and international flights: INR 1,279 (around AED 53.5) for tickets within country INR 4,279...

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...

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...

This November, Abu Dhabi welcomes NOMAD Design Fair for the first time, turning the historic Terminal 1 at Zayed International Airport into a curated hub for art and design. The traveling fair will bring international galleries, site-specific installations, and designer showcases to Abu Dhabi on November 19-22 before moving on to St. Moritz and The Hamptons next year. Terminal 1 was designed by French architect Paul Andreu and served travelers for over 40 years before closing in 2023. NOMAD will activate these halls, transforming them into an atmospheric backdrop that complements the creativity on display. View this post on Instagram...

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...

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...

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,...