Things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi
What’s On has a full list of all the things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi, including workshops, deals, sports, entertainment and new openings.
It’s the start of the weekend, folks! But if you’re not sure what you’re doing yet, don’t worry. What’s On has the perfect solution, whatever mood you are in.
THURSDAY, January 14
See one of Spain’s leading orchestras
This month one of Spain’s leading orchestras, the Sinfónica de Galicia, make their debut in Abu Dhabi. Tonight they’ll perform in the Garden City – Al Ain’s Al Jahili Fort will host Nights In The Garden Of Spain, a piece written between 1909 and 1916 by Spanish Composer Manuel de Falla.
Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, 8pm, Dhs100 to 400.Taxi: Al Jahili Fort. Tel: (800) 86823. ticketmaster.ae
Listen to The Fureys
Irish folk band The Fureys are in town and are hosting a beachside concert at The Club, which is open to all.
The Club, Al Meena, Abu Dhabi, 8pm, Dhs150. Tel: (02) 6731111. Taxi: British Club, Meena Port. The-club.com
Party at the newly launched Audiotonic
Head to Pearl’s Bar every Thursday to dance to house music. The rooftop lounge at p&c by Sergi Arola will see Mr Mr and Soulfisher on the decks tonight. You must be 21 years and over to attend.
Shangri-La, Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi, 9pm onwards. Tel: (02) 5098888. Taxi: Shangri-La. shangri-la.com
FRIDAY, January 15
Check out an art fair
Head over to the Abu Dhabi Art Hub to see the sixth international art festival. With artists from eight countries including Pakistan, India, Turkey, Lebanon and Nepal participating in the event, expect diverse artwork ranging from sculptures to painting.
Abu Dhabi Art Hub, Mussafah, Abu Dhabi, until January 17. Tel: (02) 5515005. Taxi: Near ICAD residential city. adah.com
Try Arabic high tea
Watch the sunset over the marina at Byblos Sur Mer and try a sharing platter for two including kunafa-wrapped prawns, ginger-minted fruit salad and awamat (Arabic doughnuts) with kohlrabi molasses.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, daily 4pm to 7pm, Dhs295 for two. Tel: (02) 6666888. Taxi: InterContinental Hotel. diningintercontinental-ad.ae
Poetry and artwork on display
Check out a range of artwork spanning two generations in this family showcase, with paintings from Noura Ali Al Ramahi and Fatima El Jaroudi, and poetry from Sarah Snowneil Ali. Best of all, half of the profits from the exhibition will be donated to the Future Centre For Special Needs. The exhibition will run until January 23.
The Space, twofour54, Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi, free. Taxi: twofour54, Khalifa Park. facebook.com/thespaceAD
SATURDAY, January 16
Relax at the beach
Grab your sunscreen and check out the new luxury cabanas on offer at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr’s beach. In addition to views of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, guests will also receive a sliced tropical fruit platter, cold scented towels, water and a drinks voucher for two beverages.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Bain Al Jessrain, Abu Dhabi, daily 9am to 6pm, Dhs350, not including beach club entrance fee. Tel: (02) 6543333. Taxi: Fairmont. fairmont.com
Wadi Adventure Race 11
This obstacle race features a 5km and 10km assault course littered with lakes, pools, climbing walls and more. While the exact list of obstacles aren’t announced until the day of the event, one thing is certain – it’s not for beginners. You need to be very fit to complete this course.
Wadi Adventure, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, 8am, Dhs275 to 375. Taxi: Wadi Adventure. premieronline.com
Saturday Night Market
Pick your dinner – literally. Every Saturday at Li Jiang in the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi diners can choose from a selection of produce, proteins and sauces before watching Chef Sam prepare their meal in front of them in the show kitchen.
Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Khor Al Maqta’a, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 12am, from Dhs90 and up. Tel: (02) 8188282. Taxi: Ritz-Carlton. ritzcarlton.com