Abu Dhabi turns down the heat with snow parks and artistic adventures
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)As temperatures climb in the UAE, Abu Dhabi is embracing summer with a refreshing wave of indoor experiences. From cutting-edge art experiences and oceanic wonders to sports havens and adrenaline-packed theme parks, the capital is brimming with places that offer cool relief and creative energy all summer long.
Arts, Culture & EntertainmentAt the Cultural Foundation, visitors can immerse themselves in Malaysia's vibrant contemporary art scene through "To Know Malaysia is to Love Malaysia: Highlights from the AFK Collection", running until September 10. The exhibition offers a rich view into Malaysia's creative independence and artistic evolution. Running alongside it is "Maitha Abdalla: Between Metamorphosis and Reality", showcasing a mix of paintings and sculptures until August 30.For families, the long-running "Crafts and Play" exhibit, open until June 25, invites children aged 3 to 12 to learn about Emirati weaving traditions through hands-on games centred on Al-Sadu, Talli, and Khoos crafts.The Cultural Foundation's Children's Library adds to the family-friendly lineup with daily programming that fosters literacy and imagination. Regular favourites include Storytime, Baby & Me, and Maker Mums. Entry to the library and exhibitions is free, with select workshops requiring prior registration.The Cultural Foundation also offers a wide range of paid art classes in painting, ceramics, sewing, and design that cater to the creative minds of all ages.Across town at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the Middle East debut of "Harry Potter: The Exhibition" opens on July 25 and runs through September 14. The exhibition brings the beloved franchise to life with original props, costumes, and interactive experiences for fans, young and old.Currently on display is "Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits", a landmark collaboration with the Seoul Museum of Art that explores the legacy of Korea's radical contemporary art scene.Daily art studio sessions also continue at Manarat Al Saadiyat, with a full schedule of workshops and drop-in classes for all age groups.Art lovers can retreat into immersive spaces like teamLab Phenomena in Saadiyat Cultural District. This vast, multi-sensory art destination merges light, sound, and movement to produce artworks that shift and evolve with the environment.Louvre Abu Dhabi is also offering plenty to keep visitors engaged - children enjoy free summer access, while general admission is 30% off online, excluding select seasonal activities.Families can visit the Children's Museum's latest exhibition, "Picturing the Cosmos", a space-themed journey that explores how artists from different cultures interpret the universe.For older children and teens, the museum's ArtLab summer programme returns with multi-day workshops in July and August. Participants will explore ancient languages and symbolism, inspired by the story of the Tower of Babel, through collaborative, hands-on art projects.In July, the museum will unveil a new 30-minute virtual reality experience that allows guests to travel through time and visit historical empires, from Imperial Rome to Mughal India.Meanwhile, WTC Abu Dhabi has launched a seven-month programme of weekly events and entertainment for all ages.Movie nights take over the public square every Tuesday evening with family-friendly screenings and free popcorn. Thursdays are for gamers, with a dedicated digital zone open from 2pm to 10pm, while Friday evenings feature live music and high-energy musical bingo. Saturdays kick off with morning fitness classes, including yoga, Zumba, and HIIT.Entry is free with a same-day shopping receipt from the mall, and all children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.Additionally, 421 Arts Campus in Mina Zayed hosts a contemporary art space with a roster of galleries, workshops and art shows. Housed in converted warehouses, it's both a platform for emerging talent and a welcoming place for community connection over coffee and conversation.
Cool Escapes & High-Energy AdventuresIf thrill is what you're after, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi guarantees high-octane fun with the world's fastest rollercoaster, the planet's tallest loop ride, and over 40 record-breaking attractions. For something a little cooler, Snow Abu Dhabi at Reem Mall brings the magic of winter to the desert. Designed as an "Enchanted Forest", the indoor snow park features over 20 rides and attractions, including a polar train, a magical carousel, and a soaring owl-themed ride, all wrapped in immersive storytelling.For marine-inspired magic, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, home to more than 46,000 creatures, offers cool encounters in its ten themed zones. Sharks, rays, and sea turtles are just the beginning, with the educational arm ready to welcome up to 50,000 students annually.Just a short drive away, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi promises more aquatic adventures with eight immersive realms, 100+ animal encounters, 35 interactive rides, and roaming performances that merge education with entertainment.Meanwhile, Yas Mall launched a new Fitness & Wellness series, which runs until December. Held in the cool interiors of the Prayer Hall Corridor, classes like Pilates, Flex & Flow, Cardio & Core, and Full Body Fitness are led by local instructor Azza Al Mughairy and open to all levels with limited registration.Zayed Sports City (ZSC) offers another summer option for indoor fitness lovers, featuring everything from boxing and futsal to tennis and early morning runs.ZSC's refreshing ice-skating rink offers the perfect escape from the summer heat, complemented by a massive 40-lane bowling centre and the city's largest billiards and snooker hall. It also caters to niche and regional interests, with spaces for hurling, camogie, and Ultimate Frisbee.
And if you're in the mood for a relaxed outdoor stroll without breaking a sweat, head to the UAE's first-ever air-conditioned pedestrian walkway in Al Nahyan. Opened by the Department of Municipalities and Transport in late 2024, the path stays at a breezy 24°C year-round thanks to underground cooling systems, heat-filtering roofing, and sound-muffling walls.
Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
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