This is the list you need to bookmark.

The capital has SO MUCH happening in the lead up to the New Year and beyond, featuring foodie and cultural events, some simply AH-MAYZING family-friendly activities and plenty of New Year’s Eve celebrations. GANG’S all here: here are 6 big events in Abu Dhabi that you need to know about!

6. An eight-day cultural festival in Abu Dhabi

Presenting art, design, and performances alongside traditional crafts, Al Hosn festival is an eight-day event featuring historic traditions, new emerging artistic perspectives and food! Your tickets get you access to Qasr Al Hosn, the House of Artisans and Bait Al Gahwa, while tickets for performances in the Cultural Foundation and workshops in the House of Artisans are available to purchase separately.

When? December 12 – 19

More details here

5. Fireworks and celebrations galore in Abu Dhabi for New Year’s Eve

Groove your way into the new decade!

Hotels in the capital are going all out with endless brunches, sitdown dinners, fun dining options and even magical desert trips for a memorable NYE.

Love fireworks? The sky will be LIT across the city, and the best spots to watch it from are Emirates Palace, Al Maryah Island and at Yas Marina. Get there early to get a good spot!

4. Groove your way into the new decade with Bruno Mars

The BIG bash is happening at du Arena, where none other than Bruno Mars will be performing ’24K Magic’. Tickets selling fast, more info here.

Brought to the UAE by Flash Entertainment, the Middle East’s leading entertainment company in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Miral Asset Management, Bruno will belt out his most famous hits including Just The Way You Are, Grenade, Uptown Funk and When I Was Your Man.

BUZZING for this!

3. A magical Winter Wonderland spectacular

Live performances and shows featuring your favourite characters – the kids will LOVE this! THIS is the time to visit Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, there’ll be roving entertainers, carnival activities, arts and crafts and snow zone, train rides, snow globe making activities, cookie decorations, face painting and so much more!

When? December 20 until January 4

More info here.

2. Abu Dhabi Culinary season is a must for foodies

Abu Dhabi is a foodie capital and this season celebrates the global influences, world-class restaurants and talented chefs.

Residents can look forward to discounts and offers at some of the city’s finest restos. The Tastemaster Series runs until December 6 and features Michelin starred chefs creating signature dishes along with World of Food Abu Dhabi on December 14.

When? Various dates

More info here

1. Winterfest is coming back to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi!

Back for its fourth year, this is becoming a must-visit annual trip for locals and you can see why. The magical Winterfest features activities, shows and a seasonal market filled with lots of festive goodies – what a treat!

While you’re there, don’t miss Fairy Tales On Ice, the Winterfest tree lighting, snow globe dancers, ice skating, the Snow Play Pit Stop and Snow Slide Race, as well as the usual Ferrari World attractions!

When? December 20 until January 4

More info here.

The important bits:

Get the low down on the top events in the capital here