12 things to do in Abu Dhabi this April 2025
The best of What's On this month…
And just like that, April has come around. This is going to be one busy month in the capital, with plenty to see and do for all of you.
Here are 12 things to do in Abu Dhabi this April 2025.
Dive into a world of wonder when the mystifying Pluma Circus comes to town this March, with jaw-dropping stunts, dazzling new acts, and mind-blowing visual effects that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This is the ultimate spectacle for when you want to enjoy huge stunts, big thrills and a fresh take on circus entertainment, and it'll be available to enjoy all month long on Yas Island.
Pluma, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, March 28 to April 6, from Dhs95. platinumlist.net Catch Sting 3.0
He's performed twice in Abu Dhabi in the last two years, and it seems he just can't get enough of his UAE fans. British music icon Sting is returning to the capital tomorrow, and the songwriting stalwart with classics such as Desert Rose and Englishman in New York in his hit-making repertoire will bring his STING 3.0 world tour to the Etihad Arena. The 17-time Grammy Award winner will perform alongside virtuoso guitarist and longtime collaborator, Dominic Miller, with dynamic drummer Chris Maas ( Mumford & Sons, Maggie Rogers ) providing the beats.
STING 3.0, Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, April 3, from Dhs395. livenation.me Catch Amr Diab x Adam Port Live
On Saturday, April 5, this iconic collaboration will blend traditional tunes and modern beats on Yas, so get ready for a party like none other. Experience live music mastery as these renowned performers bring you a mix of classics, groovy Afro beats and signature Etihad Park energy.
Amr Diab and Adam Port Live, Etihad Park, Yas Island, April 5, 6pm to 3am, from Dhs410. visitabudhabi.ae Enjoy theatrical brilliance with Les Misérables
Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular is on its way to the Etihad Arena, and will build on the success of Les Misérables: The Staged Concert, which ran for over 200 performances in London's West End. The adaptation is going to be even grander, bringing to town an all-new design crafted for larger venues and an immersive experience that amplifies the emotional and visual power of the show.
Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular, Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, April 10 to 20, 2025, from Dhs130. etihadarena.ae There's a festival happening at the park…
Abu Dhabi's first community-led outdoor festival is coming to town on April 12 and 13, and the adored event will feature performers, artists, musicians and community groups that will showcase their talents in the open air. The multifaceted cultural celebration with see international artists performing alongside Emirati talents, in a brilliant showcase of talent on display as part of ADMAF 2025.
ADMAF 2025, Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi, April 12 and 13, 5,30pm to 9.30pm, free entry. admaf.org Throw it back with Club Social Abu Dhabi
Club Social Abu Dhabi is the place to be this April, when you want to take a stroll down memory lane. Taking place from April 18 to 20 at Yas Island's Etihad Park, you'll be able to enjoy some of the finest hits from Usher, Snow Patrol, and The Kooks, among other performers. This celebration of feel-good music will take you back in time, blending pop, rock, and indie hits for the ultimate weekend of music in the UAE capital.
Club Social, Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, April 18 to 20, tickets from Dhs295. clubsocial.ae Calling cosplayers, pop culture fans, and the rest
This year's edition of the Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) is set to be the biggest one till date, and from April 18 to 20, fans of cosplay, pop culture, big-budget superhero franchises and the like will be able to experience a celebration of everything they love like never before. With stars such as Charlie Cox, Vince D'Onofrio, Emily Rudd and others bringing the star power to the capital, you'll want to make it to this one.
MEFCC, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi, April 18 to 20, Dhs150. mefcc.com Pull an all-nighter with OFFLIMITS
OFFLIMITS 2025 is turning up the heat. Joining Ed Sheeran on April 26 at Etihad Park are OneRepublic, as well as Kaiser Chiefs, Artbat, Faithless and others in an all-night party on Yas Island. Read all about it here.
OFFLIMITS, Etihad Park, Yas Island, April 26, from Dhs495. platinumlist.net Check out What's On trend at BRED Festival 2025
BRED Abu Dhabi is back, and it's about to take over Yas Island from April 23 to 27 with a whole week of music, culture, streetwear, and everything in between. This year, the festival is centered around an all-star line-up that will be headlined by hitmakers such as PARTYNEXTDOOR and Nas. You'll also be able to enjoy performances from Egypt's Cairokee, a band known for their electric rock vibes, and Lebanese indie rockers Adonis.
Bred Festival Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, April 23 to 27, from Dhs75. bredabudhabi.com Laugh it up with Trevor Noah
Last year it was a fest, this year it's a whole season. Kick off Abu Dhabi Comedy Season at the Etihad Arena with acclaimed laughmaker, Trevor Noah this April 26. It's your gateway to a whole season of incredible performers that will arrive in the capital to keep that laugh track on repeat.
Trevor Noah Live, Etihad Arena, April 26, from Dhs300. etihadarena.ae Make this brunch your next project
If you're in Abu Dhabi, you've got to be a fan of a good project. And brunches. Naturally, you'll want to indulge in The St. Regis Abu Dhabi's revamped Project Brunch, available to savour every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm. Your experience includes a theatrical cocktail reception and a curated cheese buffet, before an opulent seafood display and the Infusion Innovators corner take over. Must visit.
The Terrace on the Corniche, The St.Regis Abu Dhabi, Saturdays 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft, Dhs420 Italian bubbles, Dhs680 French bubbles. @stregisabudhabi Catch Amr Diab x Adam Port Live
On Saturday, April 5, this iconic collaboration will blend traditional tunes and modern beats on Yas, so get ready for a party like none other. Experience live music mastery as these renowned performers bring you a mix of classics, groovy Afro beats and signature Etihad Park energy.
Amr Diab and Adam Port Live, Etihad Park, Yas Island, April 5, 6pm to 3am, from Dhs410. visitabudhabi.ae
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
2 days ago
- Zawya
One Development unveils prime mixed-use project on Dubai Islands
UAE-based One Development has announced the official launch of its prime development - DO Hotels & Residences Dubai - featuring a collection of elegant hotel rooms and spacious well-designed residences along with other key amenities. The DO Hotels & Residences Dubai was unveiled by the developer together with global music icon Amr Diab at a grand ceremony hosted at the Conrad Grand Ballroom on Dubai Islands. It marked the launch of the region's first AI-powered, music-themed boutique hotel under the One/AD brand, marking a flagship destination for this innovative hospitality concept. Integrating bold design, immersive soundscapes, and cutting-edge technology, DO Hotels & Residences introduces a uniquely transformative approach to hospitality, One that harmonizes with the rhythm of life, it stated. Ali Al Gebely, Founder and Chairman of One Development and Vice Chairman of One/AD, Said: "This launch marks a defining moment for us at One Development. It is more than a hospitality project it's a symbol of what the future holds when innovation, art and technology come together." "Partnering with Amr Diab to create an experience where guests can truly 'Live the Beat' reflects our commitment to shaping the next generation of lifestyle destinations, right here in the UAE," noted Gebely. "Every element of Do Hotels & Residences - Dubai Islands is thoughtfully crafted to appeal to adventurous travellers, connoisseurs of a soulful ambiance and those seeking a more permanent, immersive living experience, while enjoying the expansive panoramic sea, city and marina views," he stated. It redefines how people live, stay, and connect, offering a new standard in lifestyle-enhancing travel. "From elegant hotel rooms to spacious, beautifully-designed residences, and with a host of world-class amenities and services on site, every space is designed to be an extension of our guests' aspirations: a place where music is not just heard, it permeates the very fabric of your life, and where our own two fully equipped recording studios keep you in tune with your inner rhythms," he noted. Rooted in Amr Diab's creative vision and ethos of 'Live the Beat,' DO Hotels & Residences delivers a guest experience that merges AI-powered personalization with luxury hospitality, music, wellness and contemporary design. Aligned with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, the project contributes to national tourism goals by attracting international investment, supporting regional economic growth, and redefining luxury hospitality through the integration of technology and the arts, he added. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Time Out Abu Dhabi
30-05-2025
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Your guide to the best things to do in Abu Dhabi this June
June in Abu Dhabi is many things: hot, humid and the perfect excuse to fill your calendar with seriously cool things to do indoors (and the odd al fresco soirée if you're brave). Whether you're craving world-class concerts, A-list premieres, indie film vibes, or a festive Christmas-in-June brunch (yes, really), the capital is rolling out a lineup of unforgettable happenings this month. We're talking Hans Zimmer live at Etihad Arena, Brad Pitt's F1 film premiering where it was actually filmed and ABBA bangers booming from Mamma Mia! the musical. There's also a sleek jazz-and-chess night at the Louvre, a themed brunch with a Greek island buzz and Pete Davidson cracking jokes in his UAE debut. Oh and in case you missed it, Eid Al Adha brings a four-day holiday – perfect for a staycation, fireworks, or feasting your way around Yas Bay. Here's your ultimate guide to what's hot in Abu Dhabi this June – and we're not just talking about the weather. Best things to do in June in Abu Dhabi Get mesmerised at a Hans Zimmer concert The film score maestro, who was already due to make an Abu Dhabi performance on May 31, has officially added a second show at Etihad Arena – and it's happening the very next day, on June 1. The German composer is basically Hollywood royalty at this point, having scored some of the most emotionally charged, spine-tingling soundtracks of all time. Think Inception, Interstellar, Gladiator, Dune, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King… honestly, it's a playlist of pure goosebumps. And yes, he's bringing it all to Yas Island with a full live orchestra. From Dhs399. May 31 and June 1. Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Try a film festival Clear your calendars and prepare to lean into the art of storytelling, because CineMAS 2025 is back and it's bringing serious indie film energy to Manarat Al Saadiyat. Running from May 26 to June 1, this weeklong festival of independent cinema isn't just about watching movies – it's about sparking conversations, honouring heritage, unpacking identities and maybe even rethinking your place in the world. From Dhs30. Mon May 26 to Sun June 1. Manarat Al Saadiyat. …And then tuck into a movie-inspired menu Dinner and a movie? How about dinner as the movie? A whimsical new dining experience is rolling into Abu Dhabi and it's bringing the big screen to your plate. Running alongside this year's CineMAS festival at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Taparelle has teamed up with Dine-W/Me and CineMAS to launch Le Cartoon – a nostalgic, movie-inspired dinner series that's straight out of an animated dream sequence. There are just 15 seats per slot, so make sure you book ahead to secure your spot. Dhs200 per person. Mon May 26-Sun June 1. 7pm-8pm; 8.15pm-9.15pm; 9.30pm-10.30pm; 10.45pm-11.45pm. Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, @taparellerestaurant (02 657 5832). Head to a Korean contemporary art exhibition Contemporary Art from Korea: 1960s to Today lands in the capital from May 16 to June 30, offering a deep dive into Korea's radical art movements and their legacy of experimentation, hybridity, and bold expression. Curated by Kyung-Hwan Yeo and Maya El Khalil, and designed by acclaimed studio Formafantasma, the show features standout works from the Seoul Museum of Art's collection. Expect layered media, sensory installations, and a journey that moves from the personal to the planetary – touching on identity, gender, tradition, technology, urbanisation, and the environment. Until Jun 30. Manarat AL Saadiyat. Celebrate Eid Al Adha Starting the month off with a bang are all the festivities for Eid Al Adha. Having already been confirmed by the UAE government, we will have four days off to mark Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha in Abu Dhabi – between June 5 and June 8. Whether you're plotting a poolside BBQ, eyeing up a luxe hotel escape, or just chasing the best lamb shoulder in town, the capital's got something for every kind of celebration. Yas Island is pulling out all the stops with stay-and-play deals, theme park thrills and fireworks lighting up Yas Bay. Meanwhile, beachside brunches are bringing the beats (and the bite), with live DJs, Churrasco platters and views that deserve a Boomerang. There are also plenty of staycation deals with perks like free theme park tickets, buffet blowouts and kids-stay-free offers – so you can splash, snooze and feast all in one go. Here's your ultimate guide to making this Eid Al Adha one for the books Take the kiddies to Disney Jr. Live DISNEY JUNIOR LIVE ON TOUR: COSTUME PALOOZA – Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume PaloozaÓ Friends and Family event at the Fox Performing Arts Center in Riverside on Thursday, September 1st. (Disney/Phil McCarten) PETER PARKER, MILES MORALES, GWEN STACY Disney Jr. Live On Tour: Let's Play! is heading to Abu Dhabi for the very first time, and it's landing just in time for Eid weekend. From June 6 to 8, Etihad Arena on Yas Island will be packed with giggles, dancing, and all the Disney Jr. magic you could wish for. Join Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Ariel, Ginny and Bitsy, the SuperKitties, Puppy Dog Pals, and Marvel's Spidey and his Amazing Friends for a high-energy, interactive show where your kids can sing, cheer, and dance along with their favourite characters. From Dhs95. June 6-8. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Try your hand at chess at a super suave jazz night Love the sound of jazz, a bit of friendly competition and a venue dripping in artistic vibes? Then clear your schedule for Saturday June 7 because Chess Night at Marta is back – and it's cooler than ever. Tucked away in the heart of Louvre Abu Dhabi (yes, that Louvre), Marta is hosting the final Chess Night of the season and it's shaping up to be the most sophisticated soirée in the capital. Think: smooth jazz, sleek moves across the board and an atmosphere straight out of a speakeasy. Dhs250 (ladies), Dhs400 (gents). Sat Jun 7, 8pm-1am. Marta, Louvre Abu Dhabi. (052 280 5885). Watch Jesse Cook live Guitar wizard Jesse Cook is bringing his world-famous flamenco fusion to the capital for one night only, and it promises to be pure musical magic. Hot off a European tour that wowed crowds in London, Munich, and Vienna, the Canadian maestro is landing at the Cultural Foundation for an unforgettable evening of rhythm, soul, and serious fingerstyle finesse. Dhs150. Sat Jun 14 8pm. Cultural Foundation, Al Hisn. info@ (02 657 6348). Watch Mamma Mia! live on stage Calling all dancing queens (and kings) – this June, it's time to don your platform boots and embrace the glitter because Mamma Mia! is hitting the stage at Etihad Arena, Yas Island. From Wednesday June 11 to Sunday June 22, the global phenomenon will bring ABBA's iconic hits to life in a show-stopping production that has captivated audiences for nearly 25 years. With over 65 million viewers worldwide, 50 productions, and translations into 16 languages, Mamma Mia! is a certified musical marvel – and now, it's Abu Dhabi's turn to join the party. From Dhs125. Wed Jun 11-Sun Jun 22. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. @etihadarena (0600 511 115). …And if that's not enough, you can head to a Mamma Mia!-themed brunch For two weekends only – June 13-15 and June 20-22 – a pre-show event called Bites & Bubbles will be warming things up before the evening performances at Mamma Mia! kick off. Think Mediterranean nibbles, a splash of sparkle and the kind of upbeat buzz you'd expect at a party on a Greek island (just swap Santorini for Yas Island). Dhs250 per person (groups of 4+), Dhs280 per person (single ticket). Mamma Mia! tickets from Dhs125 (weekdays) and Dhs200 (weekends). June 13-15 and June 20-22 (Fridays & Saturdays only). Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Head to a Christmas brunch (yes, really) Think you have to wait until December for roast turkey, stuffing and a side of Mariah Carey? Think again. Abu Dhabi's Coopers is throwing the calendar out the window with its gloriously unhinged – and undeniably brilliant – Alternative X-Mas Brunch, happening not once but twice this June. Mark your diaries for June 21 and 22, when Santa swaps snow for sand dunes and your favourite festive beats get a sunny remix. Yes, it's Christmas. Yes, it's summer. And yes, there will be gravy. Dhs249 (soft drinks), Dhs379 (premium beverages). June 21-22, Cooper's, Park Rotana. @coopersabudhabi. Catch Brad Pitt's film premiering in Abu Dhabi Okay, this is one you can't actually attend (unless you get an invite, lucky you) but good to know so you can do some celeb spotting. Brad Pitt's high-octane F1 The Movie is officially making its regional premiere in Abu Dhabi on June 25, and it's a full-throttle moment for the capital. Why? Because not only will the city be rolling out the red carpet for Hollywood royalty, it's also the place where key scenes of the movie were filmed – from high-speed drama at Yas Marina Circuit to high-stakes moments at Zayed International Airport and twofour54 Studios. The premiere takes place a day before the film's official Middle East release – so expect flashing cameras, fast cars, and maybe even a glimpse of Brad himself. Giggle with Pete Davidson Pete Davidson is making his way to the UAE for the first time ever and it's going to be one seriously unmissable night of comedy. The Saturday Night Live legend, stand-up icon and all-around comedic wild card is set to take over Etihad Arena on June 25, as part of this year's Abu Dhabi Comedy Season. From Dhs295. Wed June 25, 8pm. Etihad Arena, Yas Bay. Hear Dave Chappelle's cracking jokes If you thought last year's set from Dave Chappelle was something special, buckle up. The comedy kingpin is coming back to Etihad Arena on Thursday June 27, for a show that's about to go down in Abu Dhabi's stand-up history books. Last year, Chappelle kicked off the first-ever Abu Dhabi Comedy Week with a sold-out performance that drew over 14,000 fans – the largest comedy show the region's ever seen. Now, he's set to top it. From Dhs275. Thu Jun 27. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. More going on in Abu Dhabi You can now get a robotaxi from Zayed International Airport Trips to the airport just got an upgrade Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted 20 incredibly fun ways to explore Abu Dhabi after dark The city is at its most fascinating once the sun goes down
What's On
28-05-2025
- What's On
How did the Etihad Arena become one of the UAE's greenest buildings?
Way more than just a global entertainment hub… While Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena is home to island-shaking concerts, hilarious comedy shows, award-winning musicals all the way from Broadway Ave. and much more, that got us thinking: with all the booming sounds and glittering visuals pumped out of their state-of-the-art A/V system, are there any green initiatives in place to save power and make the Arena planet-friendly? Turns out there's way more to it. Here are 6 cool ways Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena has become a leader in sustainability. 3 of 12 Sustainability Overview The Arena leads by example when it comes to sustainable operations in the region's live entertainment space. As the Middle East's largest indoor arena and home to the biggest shows in the UAE, they've embedded environmentally-responsible practices even into day-to-day operations – with very measurable results. Waste management and reduction The numbers say it all, with the building implementing a host of improved processes, and recycling efforts that've contributed to a 24 per cent year-on-year reduction in general waste, with a whopping 15,057 kg of plastic, cardboard and glass waste being recycled – that's a whole 29 per cent increase compared to last year. But that's not all. Innovative and strategic ideas like their Mega Pint Return Programme encourage fans to re-use branded drink cups across events. Snag a cool collector's edition cup? Use it again, because you'll also be reducing the use of single-use plastics at the venue. Win-win. And when you're done enjoying your refreshments at the next big show in town, make sure to use the fan-facing recycling stations – they're easy to find, and carry the 'Cheering for sustainability' slogan. Carbon and utilities Power. What a beautiful thing, and how necessary when it's showtime. At the Etihad Arena, they've achieved a 13 per cent reduction in carbon emissions per head, calculated from overall utility consumption and waste generated. LED and motion-sensor lighting in back-of-house areas help save utilities when not in use, as do optimised HVAC and water-saving features throughout the arena – both fan-facing, and backstage. Every drop saved really does count. Water and plastic waste elimination In the production office, Air2Water Machines produce clean drinking water from air humidity. Besides simply being cool, this could eliminate the need for up to 22,000 single-use plastic bottles – in a single year. Let that sink in… Ticketing and tech This one was obvious, wasn't it? A complete, 100 per cent transition to digital tickets has helped eliminate paper waste and streamline event access. For those that use the Yas Island app, the Beaconless entry system also lowers power consumption. Rating and certification Ever heard of the ESTIDAMA Pearl Rating? For one, ESTIDAMA is Arabic for 'sustainability' and this system is the UAE's green building certification system developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council. The Etihad Arena was designed and built to meet the 2 Pearl ESTIDAMA sustainability standard. Community engagement A deep dive confirms that digital messaging and in-venue signage drives green habits on a behavioural level among fans like you and us, encouraging better recycling habits and an innate drive to save power and utilities. It's a behaviour and lifestyle that's even easier to pick up when your favourite artists and event partners are the ones aligned with these goals. Stay tuned to for all the updates on Abu Dhabi's booming entertainment calendar (with the vast majority coming to you at, you guessed it, the Etihad Arena). Images: supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
