Our picks: 9 things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend
What’s On has a full list of all the things to do for the 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 December 29
Watch the tennis
The Mubadala World Tennis Championship is returning to the International Tennis Complex in Zayed Sports City. The impressive line-up features Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Milos Raonic and Tomas Berdych. In addition to the action on the court, there’ll also be a dedicated Championship Village with family-friendly activities, autograph sessions and competitions.
Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi, Dhs100 to Dhs2,200, Dec 29 to 31. Tel: (800) 86823. Taxi: Zayed Sports City. mubadalawtc.com
Check out some camels
It’s your last day to visit the Al Dhafra Festival. The event features a traditional camel auction (where prized animals have been sold for up to Dhs3.5 million), camel races and camel milking competitions. There’ll also be a children’s village, traditional food and photography competition.
Madinat Zayed, Al Gharbia, Abu Dhabi, free entry, until Dec 29. Tel: (800) 555. Taxi: Al Gharbia. aldhafrafestival.ae
Visit a twilight bazaar
Hosted on the last Thursday of every month, shopaholics can check out this brand new alfresco night market at Al Seef Village Mall. The pop-up will feature quirky homegrown brands from the region including handmade handbags from Mia & Me, holiday-inspired fashions from Child of the Tropics, accessory line Shawleez and educational toys from Journey Toys.
Mamsha Al Seef, Al Seef, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 10pm. Taxi: Next to Al Seef Mall. andalus.ae
Friday December 30
Eat one more brunch
St Regis Abu Dhabi is hosting a special ‘last brunch of 2016’ that will include foie gras, sushi and over 25 types of cheese.
St Regis Abu Dhabi, Al Khubeirah, Abu Dhabi, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs275 to Dhs525. Tel: (02) 6944444. Taxi: St Regis Abu Dhabi, Corniche. stregisabudhabi.com
Go to the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
Honouring the Father Of The Nation, the late Sheikh Zayed, this heritage festival celebrates the rich history and culture of the UAE. There’ll be folklore events, Emirati singers, horse shows, military marching band parades and a classic car exhibition.
Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, free, until January 1. Tel: (800) 555. Taxi: Al Wathba. zayedfestival.com
Last day to see a Winter Wonderland
Head to the Galleria mall to check out the Winter Wonderland along the Promenade. The event will feature roaming performers, a snowy winter village, festive activities and more. Visit the website for the full schedule.
The Galleria, Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, 3pm to 10pm, free entry. Tel: (02) 6166999. Taxi: Galleria, Al Maryah Island. thegalleria.ae
Saturday December 31
Visit the Winterland Carnival at du Forum
Head to Yas Island for a special Winterland Carnival that will take place from December 27 to 31. There’ll be traditional carnival rides like carousels and roller coasters, food trucks, as well as a winter market and wandering performers. Dress warmly as this festival will feature a snow park with falling snow, a snowball fight zone and more. On December 31 the carnival stays open until 12.30am so you can catch the 10-minute fireworks display on the island.
du Forum, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 11pm, Dec 31 4pm to 12.30am, free entry. Taxi: du Forum. yasisland.ae
Bash some dunes
Watch brave souls try to conquer the Tel Moreeb dune at the Liwa Sports Festival. The nine-day festival, organised by the Al Gharbia Sports Club will feature drag races, freestyle drifting, bike races, motocross challenges and even host a classic cars competition in the Liwa Desert.
Moreeb Dune, Liwa, Al Gharbia, Abu Dhabi, until Jan 6, timings vary. Tel: (02) 8840400. Taxi: Moreeb Dune, Liwa Desert. agsc.ae
Head to Ripe Market
Grab some organic fruit and veg every Saturday, plus gluten free products and superfoods at the Umm Al Emarat Park.
Umm Al Emarat Park, Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, Fri 3pm to 10pm, Dhs5 entry fee. Tel: (02) 6669559. Taxi: Mother Of The Nation Park on Karamah Street. ripeme.com