This Weekend In Abu Dhabi: Polo, Desert Retreats, Art & Purpose-Driven Runs!

If your weekend plans are feeling a little… meh, don’t worry… Abu Dhabi has officially got you covered!

From adrenaline-packed polo matches to serene desert retreats, culture-rich exhibitions, and a purpose-driven run bringing the community together, there’s something for everyone this weekend.

Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of Abu Dhabi this weekend…

5 – Run with purpose: Cancer Run 2026

This Sunday, Hudayriyat Island is transforming into a hub of unity, hope, and movement for a cause that matters. Cancer Run 2026, presented by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, is back for its third year, inviting everyone — families, friends, casual walkers, and seasoned runners — to move together in solidarity with those affected by cancer.

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Participants can pick from 1km, 3km, 5km, and 10km distances, with hydration stations and full medical support along the way. And if you love a little friendly competition, cash prizes await 10km and 5km finishers, plus medals for all participants.

Beyond the run, the event offers:

• Cancer awareness and education booths

• Conversations with medical professionals

• Family-friendly activities

• Tips on early detection and health check-ups

It’s more than a run… it’s a community coming together to make a difference, one step at a time.

When: Sunday, 1 February 2026
Time: All-day event (Check Premier Online for race timings per distance)
Where: Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: AED 50 for children, AED 75 for adults
Registration: Premier Online

 

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4 – Escape to the desert: Aldhafra Resort Staycation

Sometimes the best weekend plan is hitting pause — and Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection by IHG, makes it easy. Locals can enjoy a serene desert escape with the UAE & GCC Residents Offer, which includes:

• 30% off accommodation

• Complimentary room upgrade

• AED 150 dining credit

• 2 complimentary activities per stay

• Full access to resort facilities

Wide dunes, big skies, and memories worth pressing pause for… THIS is how Abu Dhabi does the desert!

When: Ongoing 
Where: Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection by IHG, Abu Dhabi
Offer: UAE & GCC Residents Offer
Booking / Contact: +971 2 656 2512 or +971 2 894 6111

 

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3 – Polo, music & big Prizes: Ghantoot Polo Party

Fancy a weekend that screams Abu Dhabi energy? Head to Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club for the city’s biggest polo party yet! Expect:

• World-class polo action

• Live music and family fun

• VIP experiences you’ll want to be part of

• Free entry!

And for just AED 100, you could drive home a brand-new SOUEAST S06. Only 1,000 raffle tickets available, so move fast!

When: Sunday, 1 February 2026
Time: From 2 PM
Where: Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: Free (AED 100 for SOUEAST S06 raffle tickets)

 

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2 – Craft & code pop-up

For a dose of art, design, and Insta-worthy moments, check out Craft & Code, hosted by The New York Times Style Magazine MENA. Highlights:

• Craft, fashion, and design showcase

• Win a limited edition Off-White t-shirt

• Top-tier Instagram content guaranteed

Don’t miss this cultural collision of creativity and style!

When: Saturday 31 Jan – Sunday 1 Feb 2026
Time: All-day (Check onsite for schedule)
Where: ERTH Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: Free

 

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1 – Cultural fix at Italian masters exhibition

If your soul needs some culture (and maybe a solo date), the Italian Institute in Abu Dhabi is hosting Italian Masters in Abu Dhabi in collaboration with Hampel Fine Art Auctions.

See masterpieces from the 18th and 19th centuries by artists like Canaletto, Guardi, and Panini.

When: Thursday 30 Jan – Thursday 13 Feb 2026
Time: Regular visiting hours (Check Italian Institute website)
Where: Italian Institute in Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen
Entry Fee: Free
Website: iicabudhabi.esteri.it

 

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This weekend, Abu Dhabi proves it’s more than skyscrapers and luxury, it’s a city full of heart, culture, adventure, and fun. Whether you’re running for a cause, escaping to the desert, polo-ing under the sun, or soaking in culture, there’s a plan for everyone.

Grab your friends, family, or even just your sense of adventure… Abu Dhabi’s weekend is calling!