5 Ways To Make Your Abu Dhabi Weekend Unforgettable

Abu Dhabi weekends never disappoint… from cultural showcases and live performances to festive treats and unique city experiences, there’s something for every vibe. Here are 5 standout things happening across the capital that deserve a spot on your list…

5. Arabian Days Festival Returns And It’s Packed With Star Power

The beloved Arabian Days Festival 2025 is back at Manarat Al Saadiyat, celebrating the richness of Arabic language, music, poetry and culture.
This year’s edition is bigger than ever with an opening night featuring Rahma Riad and Fouad Abdelwahed, followed by a dreamy finale lineup with Lena Chamamyan, Rima Khcheich, and Zena Emad.

Expect workshops, live storytelling, cultural booths, heritage showcases and nonstop performances throughout the weekend. It’s one of the most meaningful, artistic events of the season… and a must-visit if you love music, language and culture coming together in one space.

• Date: Dec 13th to 15th
• Details here

 

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4. A Festive Afternoon Tea That Brings All the Holiday Magic

If your weekend mood is more “relax and indulge,” the Christmas Afternoon Tea at Foyer, Bab Al Qasr Hotel is calling your name.
Think delicate festive pastries, artisanal cakes, savory bites and premium teas — all served in a cozy holiday-themed setting that looks straight out of a Christmas movie.

Perfect for a seasonal catch-up, a sweet date, or a treat-yourself moment.

• Dec 1 – Jan 7, 3PM–7PM
• From AED 99
• +971 56 992 2078 or here

 

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3. Manar Abu Dhabi… Magical Light Art Along The Waterfront

Manar Abu Dhabi, the city’s stunning light art exhibition, is back — bigger and brighter than ever! Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy brand-new installations across multiple locations.

This year, the festival also features:

• Talks and workshops

• Live performances interspersed between the light displays

• Interactive exhibits perfect for photos, evening strolls, and soaking up winter vibes

Date: Till Jan 4, 2026

2. Nighttime Astronomy Sessions at Al Sadeem Observatory

Here’s a weekend plan that’s different, magical and super underrated… Al Sadeem Observatory is hosting open astronomy nights where you can stargaze, spot planets through powerful telescopes, and learn about constellations directly from astronomers.

It’s calm, educational, and honestly one of the coolest things to do on a clear winter night.
Expect:

• Telescope viewings of the Moon, Jupiter & Saturn

• Space talks by experts

• A cozy outdoor setup under Abu Dhabi’s night sky

Perfect for a unique date night, a family outing, or anyone who loves cosmic vibes.

1. The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon Returns… 

The capital’s biggest running festival is back… and this year, it’s bringing more than just thousands of runners, roaring crowds, and insane race-day energy.

The ADNOC Airshow is making a comeback! The elite Al Forsan Acrobatic Team (in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense) will paint the sky in ADNOC blue with a jaw-dropping aerial performance that celebrates unity, community spirit, and the marathon’s electric atmosphere.

Whether you’re running or cheering, expect:

• A buzzing start-line crowd

• Families, elite athletes & first-timers all pushing for their goals

• A full Race Village with activations

• The iconic Energy Zone hyping runners through the final KM

• And of course… that airshow moment

If you’re in the mood for adrenaline, good vibes, and a city coming together — this is the weekend event.

More details here.

BONUSSS: A Christmas Brunch for 4? Yes, You Can Win It!

Festive Giveaway #2 is officially live, and it’s a big one!
BAQ Garden is hosting its signature Christmas Day Brunch, complete with live cooking stations, kids activities, a warm garden setting, and of course, Santa making his rounds.

And one lucky winner gets to experience it with three people.
Just like, tag, and follow to enter… it’s that simple.
Brunch Date: Dec 25, 1–4 PM

 

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