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, February 4
Go to the Qasr Al Hosn festival
The fourth edition of the festival will place an emphasis on the on-going restoration of the fort, plus there’s an exhibition taking an in-depth look at the history of the building. The event’s four interactive zones also return this year, where visitors can attend workshops and learn more about gardening, butter making techniques, Bedouin culture and the etiquette of drinking Arabian coffee. There will also be live performances including animal shows featuring falcons and horses on the Festival Stage. The festival will be hosted until February 13.
Qasr Al Hosn, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 11pm, free. Taxi: Qasr Al Hosn Fort on Hamdan Street. qasralhosnfestival.ae
Listen to a new band
The newest resident jazz band at the Hilton Abu Dhabi, Unity, is made up of seven members hailing from South Africa, Canada and Trinidad and Tobago. Expect an eclectic sound ranging from the latest Top 40 hits to rock, dance, Caribbean and R&B singles.
Hilton Abu Dhabi, Al Khubeirah, Abu Dhabi, 8.45pm to 1.30am. Tel: (02) 6924247. Taxi: Hilton Corniche. facebook.com/HiltonAbuDhabi
Go to a Comedy Murder Mystery
This murder mystery dinner has a comic twist thanks to the Dubomedy actors making an appearance. Guests will be able to enjoy a three-course set menu at Pappagallo while the evening (and the drama) unfolds. Expect plenty of laughs and a few surprises too.
Le Méridien, Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi, Dhs250 per person, 8.30pm. Tel: (02) 6446666. Taxi: Le Méridien. lemeridienabudhabi.com
FRIDAY, February 5
Kevin Lyttle on the mic
Celebrate Bob Marley’s birthday with a performance from the Turn Me On soca singer at Saadiyat Beach Club.
Saadiyat Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 4pm, Dhs130 or Dhs150 at the door. Tel: (02) 6563500. Taxi: Saadiyat Beach Club. saadiyatbeachclub.ae
Watch fireworks for Chinese New Year
Head over to Al Maryah Island to celebrate the Year of the Monkey, where you’ll be able to watch a fireworks display tonight at 9.45pm along the Promenade. There are also a handful of other activations on offer, until February 8, including traditional Chinese crafts, folk dancing, acrobatic performances and even kung fu demonstrations. Visit the website to find out more.
The Galleria, Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, fireworks start at 9.45pm. Tel: (02) 6166999. Taxi: Galleria, Al Maryah Island. thegalleria.ae
Art Central open day
Head to Reem Island to explore your arty side with this free open day. Check out live tutorials, meet the instructors and sign up for a variety of workshops (from sketching to oil painting to calligraphy and sculpture) on offer at this shop.
Boutik Mall, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi, 10am to 2pm. Tel: (056) 2017970. Taxi: Boutik Mall, Reem Island. facebook.com/artcentraluae
SATURDAY, February 6
Go to an open mic night
Calling all amateur singers and musicians. Test out your chops in front of a crowd at the B Lounge. The open-air space will see performers hit the stage on the first Saturday of every month. Those interested in performing must register beforehand. Get there early to grab a decent seat.
Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, 7pm, free. Tel: (02) 6773333. Taxi: Sheraton Corniche. b-loungeabudhabi.com
Eat a lazy brunch launched at Olives
Have a lazy brunch at Todd English’s Olives restaurant this Saturday. Expect a range of sharing platters featuring dishes like beef carpaaccio, seared scallops with citrus risotto or grilled boneless rib eye with steak frittes served directly to the table. Meaning you don’t have to move an inch. What could be lazier than that? In addition, kids will be looked after with face painting and pizza making classes.
Venetian Village, Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs190 with soft drinks, Dhs290 with Prosecco. Tel: (02) 4041941. Taxi: next to Ritz-Carlton. facebook.com/OlivesAbuDhabi
Go to Abu Dhabi Fashion Days
Go shopping at Nation Towers for locally designed abayas, dresses and more at this special pop-up.
Nation Galleria, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, free. Taxi: Nation Galleria mall. abudhabi fashiondays.com
