Abu Dhabi turns down the heat with snow parks and artistic adventures
18 June 2025 00:14
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
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
5 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE travel: Many residents going ahead with summer vacation plans despite regional conflict
[Editor's Note: Follow the KT live blog for live updates on the Israel-Iran conflict.] Despite escalating regional conflict and the suspension of specific flight routes, many residents and citizens in the UAE are gearing up for summer travel as they do every year. For them, travelling is not just a vacation; it's a personal or family tradition that they are unwilling to abandon. The ongoing conflict between Israel-Iran has disrupted flight operations in the region, causing chaos in routes worldwide. UAE airlines have been forced to extend flight cancellations due to the conflict. UAE airports have advised travellers to check their flight status with airlines, as some countries have closed their airspace. UAE airlines has suspended flights to four destinations: Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iran. Due to missile attacks between Israel and Iran, some travellers from the UAE have changed their destinations at the last minute. Others are deliberately choosing countries unaffected by suspended air routes, hoping to avoid any surprises that could delay their return. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Halima Mossa, a Dubai-based Emirati who travels every summer, isn't ready to give up her tradition. "I've booked a five-day trip to Saudi Arabia at the beginning of July to perform Umrah in Mecca and Medina," she said. "Despite the ongoing tensions in the region, I feel relatively safe because Saudi Arabia is located in the south and far from conflict zones," she added. She had planned to travel to Turkey with her family later in the month, but now she feels hesitant because the flight route crosses areas of tension. "As soon as things calm down, I'll book the trip right away," she said. "However, if the situation doesn't improve, I'll just visit Saudi Arabia this year." Turkey is indirectly affected by the ongoing regional conflict due to its geographic proximity to certain hotspots, leading many travellers to exercise caution or reconsider their travel plans. Conversely, some travellers remain completely fine. As long as their destination is far from the conflict zone, they see no reason to change or cancel their plans. Abdullah, an Emirati from Abu Dhabi, is a frequent traveller, embarking on international journeys every three months. He expressed his excitement for his upcoming trip, saying, "I'm flying to Indonesia early tomorrow for a leisure trip. I love nature." He plans to stay for 12 days. "I booked my flight with Qatar Airways, and the confirmation is reassuring. It indicates that the route to Indonesia is safe," he added. Always takes precautions Despite his passion for travel, Abdullah always takes precautions and adheres to UAE government advisories. Just three months ago, he travelled to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. Meanwhile, others say that forgoing travel is not an option, especially when it involves long-standing family traditions. Al Muhannadi, an Emirati from Dubai, is planning a summer trip to visit his paternal relatives. "Although I was hesitant at first, I miss my family," he said. "I carefully studied the situation. If — God forbid — flights get suspended, I'll be able to return by land." He is scheduled to travel in late June for a one-week period. "As long as Qatar Airways confirms the flight, it means the situation is safe," he said. Meanwhile, residents of the UAE are cancelling their travel plans to Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan, fearing they may be stranded if the conflict escalates due to the Iran-Israel conflict.
Web Release
5 hours ago
- Web Release
Ministry of Economy launches Summer Hospitality Camp 2025 to build national capabilities in the hospitality sector
In the presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, the Ministry of Economy launched the 'Summer Hospitality Camp 2025'. The comprehensive training program places students in real-world hospitality settings such as hotels and tourism facilities to enhance national tourism capabilities, supporting broader efforts to develop human capital in the UAE's tourism and hospitality sectors. The initiative aligns with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 and is being implemented in strategic partnership with academic institutions, tourism and hospitality companies, and leading hospitality providers across the country. The launch event was attended by H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General elect of the United Nations World Tourism Organization for the 2026–2029 term, it was also attended by nearly 100 people representing the country's hospitality sector, along with student leaders, and industry professionals. Speaking at the event, H.E. Bin Touq emphasized that tourism has become a key driver of sustainable development and economic competitiveness, thanks to the vision and support of the UAE's wise leadership. Pointing out the sector's outstanding performance, he highlighted the importance of preparing leaders and developing national capabilities across tourism-related activities to ensure sustainable growth and enhance the sector's contribution to economic and social development. The Ministry of Economy works closely with government and private sector partners to achieve this strategic objective. H.E. added: 'The Summer Hospitality Camp is an investment in our young Emiratis, designed to equip them with the skills and training needed to thrive in the tourism sector. It reflects our commitment to increasing local participation in this vital industry and aligns with our vision for a dynamic tourism future led by capable Emirati talent. Through this initiative, we are preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators who will enrich the visitor experience in the UAE and serve as true ambassadors of our authentic Emirati identity and globally recognized hospitality.' H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais emphasized that the camp marks a significant step forward in building national capacity within the tourism sector. She noted that the program plays a vital role in developing human capital and cultivating world-class expertise through hands-on experience across various tourism and hospitality fields in the UAE. This model, she explained, aligns with global trends that position tourism as a key driver of economic and social development, advancing progress by building capabilities, attracting talent, and fostering innovation and sustainability. The Summer Hospitality Camp enhances Emiratization in the tourism sector by empowering country's youth and bridging the gap between university degrees and the labor market. It equips participants with practical experience and personal skills prior to entering the workforce. The program also focuses on building leadership qualities, teamwork spirit, and a culture of service excellence, while offering specialized hands-on training. The initiative will enable students to explore sustainable, long-term career pathways that align with global tourism growth and adhere to the highest international standards, further empowering youth to play an active and influential role in shaping the future economy. Organized in partnership with 35 hotel and tourism establishments across the UAE, the camp targets UAE nationals and residents aged 15 to 22, including high school and university students. It offers five specialized tracks: Hotels, Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Food Services, and Event Management. Programs will run from two to four weeks depending on the track, and include field training, mentorship sessions, site visits, and interactive workshops. Participants will receive accredited participation certificates. Students interested in joining can register at: The application period for the program will close at the end of June 2025.
Sharjah 24
9 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
ICP maintains airport operations amid regional disruptions
Emergency business continuity plan activated The ICP clarified that its approved emergency business continuity plan was immediately activated when these events unfolded. This ensures operational flexibility and minimises potential disruptions to travel, especially given the airspace closures by some nations. The plan encompassed precise operational and regulatory procedures, executed in collaboration with strategic partners. Field teams reinforced for 24/7 operational readiness To maintain peak readiness and immediate responsiveness, the Authority has bolstered airport field teams with qualified personnel and robust operational capabilities, available 24/7. Support for stranded passengers Furthermore, the ICP is coordinating with all relevant operational bodies to manage the situations of stranded passengers, ensuring they receive vital support such as temporary accommodation, logistical services, and accurate information. Streamlined passenger entry and airline coordination The ICP also stated that a streamlined system for passenger entry into UAE airports has been implemented, aligning with current operational needs. Direct guidance is being provided to passengers by support teams, with immediate coordination with airlines in the UAE for flight rescheduling. ICP reaffirms commitment to passenger safety and service excellence The Authority commended passengers for their cooperation and understanding during these exceptional regional circumstances. It reiterated its unwavering commitment to undertaking all necessary measures to guarantee the security and safety of all travelers under any conditions or emergencies. This support is rooted in authentic Emirati values, proactive service standards, and comprehensive crisis and emergency management plans, ultimately ensuring the seamless delivery of services for both arriving and departing passengers according to the highest international standards and practices.
