Things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi: August 15 to 17

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This article was updated on August 15, 2025.
Abu Dhabi is packed with unforgettable experiences and vibrant happenings, and this weekend is no exception. From family-friendly activities to celebrating National Prosecco Day, going night swimming and more… Here are the top things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend Celebrate Indian Independence Day
Head to Punjab Grill Dubai, a Michelin-recognised fine dining restaurant, and tuck into two star dishes for a discounted rate. You can pick from the chicken tikka sampler – a vibrant and juicy chicken dish grilled to perfection, or the paneer roulade on makhani saag – a rich, creamy, vegetarian-friendly dish. Both dishes will sport the colours of the Indian flag and are priced at Dhs78, a nod to India having completed 78 years of independence.
Location: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Times: August 15
Cost: Dhs78 per dish
Contact: [phone]
@punjabgrillabudhabi Crafts and Play
Have little ones between the ages of three and 12? Take them to the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi for a unique exhibition celebrating the UAE's iconic crafts. But it's not just an exhibition; it's a learning experience paired with interactive games. It's designed keeping little ones in mind, and the hands-on journey will delve into three traditional Emirati weaving crafts: Al-Sadu, Talli and Khoos. Additionally, visit the House of Artisans to further discover the craft of Talli through interactive displays, artisan demos, and hands-on experiences. Visit culturalfoundation.ae for more details.
Location: Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi
Date/Time: until August 17
Cost: free entry
Contact: [phone]
culturalfoundation.ae Back to school
Bawabat Al Sharq Mall is celebrating the back-to-school season with a host of interactive and exciting events designed especially for kids, where learning, exploration, and play come together under one roof. The ground floor of the mall has been transformed into a colourful world of fun, including a giant slide, colored water sprayers, an arts and crafts section plus a space where children can channel their inner Albert Einstein and try some science experiments. While the kids are busy, parents can tick off the items they need for the academic year. The event runs from August 15 to 24 from 2pm to 10pm.
Location: Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, Baniyas East
Date: August 15 to 24 from 2pm to 10pm.
Contact: [phone]
@ bawabatalsharqmall Go night swimming
Marsana Beach
Love to swim but need your space? Marsana East Beach on Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi is keeping the beach open at night for people to enjoy a swim under the stars. And since it proved to be quite popular, the length of the beach has now doubled. Visitors can choose to take a refreshing dip in the water, but if you prefer to stay dry, you can unwind and sit in the sand or relax on plush sun loungers dotted along the shoreline. There will be complimentary towels and mini coolers stocked with chilled water also available. You can also order food and drinks on demand from Marsana's cafés and restaurants via a QR code or dine at one of the seven outlets on the beach.
Location: Hudayriyat Island
Date: open until 10pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends, until September 30
Contact: [phone]
hudayriyatisland.ae Spend time with the family
Luxury 5-star resort Le Méridien Abu Dhabi has a pocket-friendly deal that's just perfect for families. The La Famiglia Special deal at Méridien Plaza includes a sharing salad and a pizza for just Dhs130, which can be enjoyed by four people. The deal is available daily from 12pm, so you can pop on over for lunch or dinner.
Location: Le Méridien Abu Dhabi
Date: daily from 12pm
Contact: [phone]
marriott.com Cheers to the weekend
Not only is it the weekend, but it's the weekend of National Prosecco Day, and yes, that is worth celebrating. At The Terrace on the Corniche, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, you can raise your glass and say cheers with loved ones in an elegant and refined setting with a front-row seat to the Corniche. The menu features international flavours which will pair excellently with the bubbles.
Location: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Corniche
Date: until August 17
Contact: [phone]
@stregisabudhabi Paella Fiesta at Bab Al Qasr
It's Spain on a plate with paella piled high and live flamenco dancers twirling through dinner. It's theatrical, it's tasty, and it's the kind of Friday night you'll want to turn into a habit.
Location: Rosemary, Bab Al Qasr Hotel
Date: Friday
Time: 7pm to 10pm
Cost: from Dhs199
Contact: [phone] Abu Dhabi Summer Sports at ADNEC
ADNEC is basically a giant air-conditioned playground. Play padel, hit the basketball court, drop the kids at camp, or chill in a wellness pod. It's summer-proofed and seriously fun.
Location: ADNEC, Halls 4 to 11
Contact: [phone] Step inside the wizarding world at Harry Potter: The Exhibition
Image: Archive
Wands up, a spellbinding experience awaits you in the capital. Harry Potter: The Exhibition has flown (although not on a broom) into Manarat Al Saadiyat, inviting fans to journey through the magical universe like never before.
From exploring the iconic Great Hall and brewing potions in Snape's classroom to summoning a Patronus in the Forbidden Forest, this immersive adventure brings the wizarding world to life.
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
Times: Wednesday to Monday, 10am to 10pm (closed Tuesdays)
Cost: From Dhs115
abudhabi.harrypotterexhibition.com
Image: Archive