8 incredible things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend: April 18 to 20
April days in Abu Dhabi…
There's loads of fun to be had in the capital this April, and as we go into the weekend, you're spoilt for choice with all the incredible foodie and musical things you can get stuck into. And on that note, here are eight things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Friday, April 18 Catch the last few shows of Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular
Theatre fans, if you've been too busy to realise, Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular is currently in Abu Dhabi running at the Etihad Arena. The worldwide popular show raised the curtains for its opening performance on April 10 and its last show takes place on April 20, 2025. Meaning this is your last weekend to go and check it out.
Les Misérables in Abu Dhabi, Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, April 10 to 20, 2025, from Dhs130, @etihadarena.ae Check out a music festival
Fans of bangin' beats and mouthwatering eats are in for an absolute treat this April, as Club Social is coming to town again to turn up the volume and the fun with the ultimate weekend party at Etihad Park from April 18 to 20. Whether you're heading over for the music, the food, or just the unmatched vibes, this three-day festival is where you need to be.
Club Social Abu Dhabi, Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, April 18 to 19 5pm onwards, April 20 4pm, prices vary. ticketmaster.ae Catch some classical music
The Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra conducted by Chi-Yong Chung is making an exciting visit. This time for the Abu Dhabi Festival, they are performing a programme of Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, preceded by an extract from the ballet Princess Bari by the Korean composer Geon-yong Lee.
The Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra, The Red Theatre, The Arts Centre at NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Apr 18, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, @abudhabifestival Saturday, April 19 Check out the brand new teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
The wait is finally over. Set within the booming Saadiyat Cultural District, the unprecedented art megaproject will span 17,000 sq. metres and will house exhibits like nothing you've ever seen before. Here, you'll be able to experience a truly unique, one-of-a-kind experience – because admittedly, no two experiences shall be the same. With stunning visuals, light displays and music that puts you in a trance, this is an experience of a lifetime. Read more here.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, opens Friday, April 18, from Dhs150, teamlababudhabi.com Head to Middle East Film & Comic Con
Get ready, Abu Dhabi – the Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) is back, bigger and bolder than ever before. From April 18 to 20, the ADNEC Centre will transform into the ultimate hub for all things pop culture. With celebrity appearances, epic panels, exclusive collectibles, and a whole lot of surprises in store, it's shaping up to be a weekend you won't want to miss.
Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC), ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi, from April 18 to 20, Friday 1-day pass for Dhs150, Saturday 1-day pass for Dhs185, Sunday 1-day pass for Dhs159, 3-day pass for Dhs395, Super VIP for Dhs2600, and VIP for Dhs1000, mefcc.com Have a groovy Easter weekend
Ilios Restaurant & Beach Club is offering a groovy way to celebrate Easter this year. Live it up at the Beats Easter Pre-Party with House Movement & TKL. Start the celebrations at 5pm with golden skies and deep house vibes as HOUSE MOVEMENT and TKL take over the decks. Expect high energy, sunset beats, and coastal cool at its finest.
Ilios Restaurant &Beach Club, Sat, Apr 19, 5pm till late, ladies at Dhs99 and gents at Dhs200, Tel: (0) 2 419 8508, @ilios.abudhabi Sunday, April 20 Celebrate a foodie Easter in the capital
SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi is all set to roll out their Easter brunch, so diners can enjoy the celebrated concept's breathtaking ambiance as they dig into its signature dishes. Celebrate the occasion with an exquisite blend of traditional Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavours. Ingredients from Japan such as kinmedai, amberjack, hirame, and tuna, alongside fresh, organic produce from UAE-based farms will lay the table for you this Easter.
SUSHISAMBA, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, April 20, 1pm to 3.30pm. Tel: (0)2 811 5882, @sushisambaabudhabi Spend Arabian nights at Ornina Arabian Lounge
Close of the weekend with some Arabian music and food at Ornina Arabian Lounge. The night comes alive with dynamic DJ beats, creating the perfect blend of music while you savor an exquisite dinner and enjoy a mesmerizing belly dance performance.
Ornina Arabian Lounge, Al Rahah, Tues to Sun, 8pm onwards, Tel: (0) 50 696 9312, @orninalounge
Images: Supplied/Getty
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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
Emirates Woman
28-05-2025
- Emirates Woman
New to Dubai? Here's all the gyms to book in 2025
This year is all about keeping your fitness in check. With all the gyms in Dubai you're sure to stay on track. Dubai offers a diverse selection of gyms catering to different fitness needs, from high-end boutique studios to budget-friendly options. The Warehouse Gym blends art, music, and fitness, hosting over 2,500 monthly classes while Physique 57 offers barre-based workouts for a full-body burn. Whether you're into weightlifting, HIIT, or group classes, Dubai has a gym to match your fitness goals. From state-of-the-art facilities to exclusive memberships, it's all about focusing on new fitness goals that keep you healthy – while enrolling in all the workout classes for an extra push. If you're looking to get in shape or find a motivating space to escape the rut – we've curated a guide of all the gyms in Dubai. Chalk Training Ground View this post on Instagram A post shared by Privilee UAE (@privilee_uae) Chalk Training Ground (CTG) is a premier fitness facility located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, offering a diverse range of high-intensity training programs. Their mission is to inspire individuals to achieve peak human performance within a supportive community environment. CTG provides various membership options, including gym access, class packages, and unlimited plans. Their expert-led sessions focus on strength, endurance, and conditioning, catering to all fitness levels. For more information visit FitnGlam Amp up your cardio fitness level with the ultimate indoor cycling experience. Surrender to rockstar instructors as they set the pace in the state-of-the-art studios with Stages bikes. These technologically advanced indoor bikes, set your success in motion with one of the smoothest, smartest and strongest rides of your life. This UAE's premium women-only club promises a stronger environment for everyone to grow. For membership packages, contact FitnGlam. The studios are located across Al Ghurair Warehouses, Al Quoz, Sports Society Complex Mirdif and Dubai Hills Mall. All memberships can be availed from the website. For more information visit 1Rebel Situated behind the Arts Club, 1Rebel is an 11,600 square feet gym space with high-powered equipment including stationary spinning bikes for an intense body workout. With curated playlists and state-of—the-art equipment, you can burn up to 800 calories per class. One session is priced at Dhs130 and it's located at ICD Brookfield, this place is must-visit. For more information visit Wellfit Gym This exceptional fitness haven is nestled in beautifully crafted surroundings at the heart of Meydan and Nad al Sheba. The space offers a studio experience unlike any other from Les Mills favorites, Yoga, signature classes, immersive cycling, interactive children's fitness and more – it's all here. For more information visit Warehouse Gym View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Warehouse Gym (@whgym) For a truly exhilarating and heart-pumping workout Warehouse should be your go-to. Embracing music and club culture, this gym harnesses that energy to keep members on their feet for a high-intensity workout. For membership enquires visit the website. For more information visit SEVEN Wellness Club View this post on Instagram A post shared by SEVEN (@sevenwellness) From Reformer Pilates to luxurious massages, SEVEN caters to all aspects of wellness, fostering inclusivity and community. The curated selection at 'The Shop' adds an extra touch, blending art with lifestyle products. SEVEN embodies a vision of holistic wellbeing, offering an oasis where individuals can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. For all details on the membership, enquires can be placed on the website. For more information visit 51 Gym This one-stop fitness destination at the center of Dubai in the new Al Wasl 51. Whether you're a beginner or a fitness fanatic, or you want to build muscle or stretch things out, there's something for you here. With state-of-the-art fitness equipment, weightlifting stations, boxing, TRX, HIIT, dance, yoga, Pilates, Reformer classes and an immersive 4D cycling classes, we offer an excellent service and premium amenities for a unique experience. For more information visit VEO Veo, from Emaar Hospitality Group, is set to transform the fitness landscape with its holistic approach to wellness. The facilities also include Tennis and padel courts, a swimming pool, and various membership options to suit your needs. Everyone can experience a range of enriching classes such as Yoga, Pilates, and sound healing. With three locations opening this year—Veo Hayya Lakes- now open, Veo Manzil in Downtown Dubai, and Veo Meadows Town Center. For more information visit Embody View this post on Instagram A post shared by 51 Gym Dubai (@51gymdubai) Embody Fitness is taking training and body transformation to the next level. This all-in-one gym has everything from strength and conditioning, nutrition, recovery, and sports therapy. For more information visit – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pinterest
