16 very cool things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi

Time Out Abu Dhabi

01-05-2025

Weekends in Abu Dhabi are never dull – but this one is positively stacked.
From a very Hogwarts brunch to a brand-new party deal, free Sunday morning coffee and stargazing in the desert, the capital is seriously going hard.
From new exhibitions and some huge stand-up comedy acts to golden-hour DJ sets at the Louvre, this weekend's line-up is looking chef's kiss. Ready to make the most of it?
Scroll on for our pick of the best events happening across the capital – because staying in is simply not an option.
Things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi
Thursday
Check out the Abu Dhabi book fair
Dive into a world of literature at the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. From April 26 to May 5, explore a vast selection of local and international books, meet talented graphic novelists and illustrators, and enjoy professional workshops, seminars, and panel discussions. Pretty cool. Whether you're a bookworm, a budding writer, or just curious, this literary extravaganza at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre has something for everyone.
Free entry. Sat Apr 26-Mon May 5 9am-10pm. Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. adbookfair.com.
Book a cooking masterclass
Fancy getting your hands dough-deep in Georgian cooking? Shvili Galleria Al Maryah Island is spicing up the capital's culinary scene with a brand-new adults-only masterclass – and it's kinkhali-level fun. You'll learn how to whip up traditional favourites, with expert guidance, laughs on the side, and a table full of delicious results. Advance booking recommended.
Dhs169. Shvili Galleria, Al Maryah Island, (058 536 0444).
Try a brand-new menu at Tazu
Louvre Abu Dhabi's Art Lounge has a stunning new twist – meet Tazu, a dreamy rooftop concept serving up pan-Asian bites with serious style. From bao buns and sushi to pho and mango sticky rice, this is your ticket to Asia without leaving Saadiyat. Expect creative mixed drinks, sky-high vibes, and a menu that goes big on flavour and finesse.
Open Tue-Sun, 5pm-midnight. Tazu by Art Lounge, Louvre Abu Dhabi. (02 205 4225 223 / 050 699 6375).
Head to a brand-new exhibition
Culture, couture and community come together at Threads of Heritage, a captivating new exhibition celebrating Emirati women's traditional fashion and jewellery. Held at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi's striking Atrium, the free showcase runs until May 3 and dives deep into the evolution of Emirati style — from early 20th-century garments to contemporary interpretations.
Organised in partnership with the National Library and Archives and Dubai Culture, the exhibition blends archaeology, poetry, rare artefacts, and striking visuals, curated by textiles expert Dr Christophe Moulherat. Whether you're into fashion, heritage, or storytelling, this is one stylishly scholarly stop you won't want to miss.
Free event. Daily from 6pm, until May 3. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Al Reem Island. sorbonne.ae.
Friday
Belly laugh with Kevin Hart
Credit: supplied
This man needs no introduction. Emmy and Grammy-nominated, Kevin Hart has been part of some of Hollywood's biggest comedy blockbusters. We suspect it will be an absolute riot of a time.
Tickets are still available so don't hang around.
From Dhs295. May 2. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. etihadarena.ae.
Try the SeaBloom Celebration at SeaWorld
Spring is in full bloom at SeaWorld Yas Island – and no, we're not just talking flowers. The marine life theme park is making a splash with its first-ever SeaBloom Celebration, and it's packed with adorable animals, colourful adventures, and Insta-worthy moments.
Running until Saturday May 11, SeaBloom brings marine-themed sand sculptures, a sea turtle's journey brought to life, and even interactive meet-and-greets with SeaWorld celebs like Sakina the dugong and Shivers the polar bear – both dressed in their springtime finest, naturally.
Little ones can grab a SeaBloom Curiosities Booklet (Dhs35) and set off on a mission across eight realms to uncover animal secrets, collect stickers, and earn a sweet surprise from Sakina herself. Yas Annual Passholders get a cheeky discount, too.
Until Sat May 11, daily 10am-6pm. SeaWorld Yas Island. seaworldabudhabi.com.
Try a brand-new night out
Credit: Velocity
Velocity at Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi is your high-energy weekend fix, running Friday to Sunday from 6pm to 4am with top DJs, electric vibes, and ten drinks included – ladies pay just Dhs50 on Fridays and Saturdays, gents Dhs100, and everyone gets the deal for Dhs50 on Sundays.
For those craving an elevated experience, the new VVIP Room offers private access for up to ten guests, complete with two premium bottles, mixers, snacks, queue-jump entry, a Polaroid camera with free films, and five DJ song requests, all for a Dhs2,500 minimum spend.
Dhs50 (ladies), Dhs100 (gents), Dhs50 (everyone on Sundays). Friday to Sunday, 6pm-4am.Velocity, Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi. [e-mail], (02 304 7777).
Saturday
Get your wizard on at a Harry Potter brunch
On Saturday May 3, Urban Kitchen at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is transforming into a Hogwarts-inspired haven for one magical afternoon.
Think floating candles (well, close enough), house banners, and a feast worthy of the Great Hall itself.
This one-off brunch is an escape into the world of witchcraft and wizardry, complete with themed food stations that channel the flavours of Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff.
But just like the room of requirement, space is limited – and trust us, this one's going to vanish fast.
Dhs265 (soft drinks), Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs695 (premium bubbly), Dhs90 (kids aged 7-12), free (kids under 6). Saturday May 3, 12.30pm-5pm. Urban Kitchen, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. [e-mail] (02 698 8137).
Go to a proper boogie on a rooftop
House heads, your rooftop rave awaits. The Abu Dhabi House Movement is back at the Louvre's Art Lounge for Beats Beneath the Dome – a one-night-only party blending deep house, techno, and skyline views.
Expect sets from DJs Tom Worton, Marc Williams, Chewna, Gloria, and Mary White. Culture, beats, and late-night vibes? Yes, please.
Sat May 3, 7pm-late. Art Lounge, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island. [e-mail] (050 993 1884).
Giggle with Gabriel 'Fluffy' Iglesia
Credit: supplied
Celebrated as one of the world's leading stand-up comedians and used to sold-out audiences worldwide, Gabriel 'Fluffy' Iglesia has amassed nearly a billion views on YouTube and over 25 million followers on social media. Make sure you don't miss this show, It's going to be an good'un.
From Dhs295. May 2. Etihad Arena, Yas Island. etihadarena.ae.
Take the crew out for a new brunch
If you're after a Saturday night that dazzles all the senses, Siddharta Lounge is bringing the heat with The Sensory Brunch. Overlooking Yas Bay, this evening brunch serves up top-notch entertainment, punchy mixed drinks and an elevated dining experience – all wrapped up in signature Buddha-Bar flair.
Dhs259 (soft drinks), Dhs359 (house beverages), Dhs459 (sparkling). Sat 7pm-11pm. The Pier, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, @siddhartaloungeabudhabi.
Have some golden hour grooves at Asrah Pool & Bar
Weekends just got a serious upgrade at Asrah Pool & Bar, thanks to a brand-new DJ residency bringing golden hour vibes every Saturday and Sunday from 4pm to 8pm. Launching the series is DJ Alisa, spinning a feel-good mix of deep house, afrobeats, and global beats as the sun sets over the city. Poolside beats + sunset views = your new weekend ritual.
Dhs249 (Dhs100 redeemable). Sat-Sun, 4pm-8pm. Erth Abu Dhabi, Al Khaleej Al Arabi. erth.ae.
Try SUSHISAMBA's new lunch
Weekends just got sassier with SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi's brand-new Saturday lunch times. This Corniche hotspot is rolling out a midday feast from 12.30pm to 3.30pm every Saturday, dishing out its signature Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian fusion in style.
Think Wagyu Dhabi rolls, SAMBA seviche platters, yellowtail taquitos and dreamy desserts like yuzu cheesecake and chocolate banana cake.
À la carte. Sat 12.30pm-3.30pm. Podium 1, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Corniche (02 811 5882).
Spend a night gazing up at the stars
If your idea of a dreamy night out involves neon lights, desert breezes and a whole lot of stargazing – Cosmic Glow is calling. Set at the stunning Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Al Ain, this magical series of after-dark adventures is happening on May 3.
Expect everything from telescope viewings and planet-spotting with Al Sadeem Observatory to glow-in-the-dark drumming circles, cosmic UV face painting and even a night-time archaeology tour. Fancy a wearable souvenir? Bring a T-shirt for the silk-screening workshop – or grab one there – and make your own galaxy-inspired fashion statement.
Add in campfire dining curated by Cucina del Sul (think grilled skewers, live kaak stations and snacks for kids) and you've got an evening that's all stars and vibes. Glow-in-the-dark outfits highly encouraged.
Dhs104 (early bird), Dhs130 regular. May 3, 6.30pm-10.30pm. Jebel Hafit Desert Park, Al Ain. mountaintrailsandtales.com/cosmicglow, Platinumlist.
Sunday
Get a free coffee
Weekends were made for long, lazy breakfasts – and The Keg Room knows it. Every Saturday and Sunday from 8am to noon, you can tuck into a hearty brekkie and score a free coffee or tea with your order. Because nothing says 'weekend goals' like eggs, bacon, and a steaming cup of joe on the house. Count us in.
Every Sat and Sun, 8am-noon. The Keg Room, Shop G03, Precinct A, Al Zeina. [e-mail], @thekegroom, (056 410 4101).
Head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi for a must-visit exhibition
Louvre Abu Dhabi's 'Kings and Queens of Africa, Forms and Figures of Power' exhibition takes you through the rich history of powerful African figures.
Split into three sections – West Africa, Central Africa and Southern and Eastern Africa – it's the first-ever exhibition of its kind in the Gulf region and definitely not one to miss.
Dhs65. Until May 25. Louvre Abu Dhabi. louvreabudhabi.ae.