Things to Do in Abu Dhabi This Season
Abu Dhabi comes back to life when the cooler months arrive. The city moves outdoors again and offers a mix of cultural events, beach days, art showcases and food experiences. Whether you want to explore heritage, enjoy the coastline or discover new neighbourhood activities, the emirate has plenty to offer. This guide highlights some of the most engaging things to do across the city.
Festivals and Cultural Experiences
The Maritime Festival brings the UAE’s seafaring history to the Corniche. Families can join workshops and watch fish auctions while live folk performances add atmosphere. The main stage event, Danat, presents dramatic scenes inspired by maritime traditions. The festival also includes food stalls and shops with marine themed items which makes it a varied day out. At Manarat Al Saadiyat, the Abu Dhabi Art Fair gathers local and international galleries. Visitors can explore installations, commissions and exhibitions that extend into other cultural sites across the emirate. It is one of the city’s most anticipated creative events and brings together both established and emerging artists. The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba is another major highlight. With thousands of performances and large scale shows it offers a long season of entertainment that includes fireworks, drone displays and diverse cultural programmes.
Beach Clubs and Outdoor Activities
Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa is a lively option for a relaxed day on the sand. Families and pets are welcome and the beach offers activities such as volleyball, kayaking and padel. Food trucks and a beach bar add to the laid back setting. Another beach escape awaits at 25 Minutes to Tulum on Hudayriyat Island which features turquoise water and cabanas that create a holiday feeling close to the city. For active mornings, SUPERSCULPT hosts outdoor yoga classes at Fahid Beach Club. The session combines movement with music followed by a dip in the sea and the option for brunch. Cycling at Yas Marina Circuit is also a popular weekly routine. The track opens for TrainYAS and visitors can borrow bikes and helmets at no cost which makes it accessible for all fitness levels.
Dining and Evening Outings
Goldfish Sushi and Yakitori at Marina Mall has introduced several new dishes made exclusively for its Abu Dhabi branch. For a laid back night, Barbossa’s Ladies Night offers complimentary drinks with music that often continues late into the evening. At the Ritz Carlton, Giornotte hosts an Italian inspired Thursday feast with antipasti pizza and pasta along with selected beverages. Mamsha Al Saadiyat’s NIRI serves a weekday business lunch with views of the coastline. Beach Rotana’s Beach Garden brings Mediterranean flavours to an open air setting with skyline views. Kai Beach Club on Saadiyat Island adds to the list with a sunset supper menu that pairs relaxed food with golden hour by the sea.
Family Friendly Options
Families can spend time at the newly reopened Al Ain Museum which traces thousands of years of regional heritage. Ferrari World’s roof walk offers sky level views of Yas Island created by a guided experience across the iconic red structure. Reem Island also offers simple waterfront fun through boat rides that range from donut boats to swan themed options. Abu Dhabi continues to expand its entertainment choices. From classic pubs at Le Meridien Village to rooftop lounges at Yas Bay Waterfront and arcades such as Lucky 8 there is always something new to explore as the city moves deeper into its cooler season.
