From a breakfast and pool day to a leather course …

Counting down to the weekend so you can fill it with fun stuff? We hear you!

From booking a staycation at one of the most Instagrammable hotels in the world to checking out to checking out an awesome old photography exhibition at The Louvre in Abu Dhabi, there’s something to suit all tastes over the weekend here in the capital.

Here’s a list of things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend:   

Thursday, July 11

1. Last chance to check out some old photographs

This is the last weekend you’ll have to check out Photographs 1842 – 1896: An Early Album of the World at The Louvre Abu Dhabi. The exhibition closes this Saturday, July 13, 2019. The exhibition features more than 250 historic photographs that have been taken between 1842 and 1896 taken by travellers and sailors across the world, from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, India and the Americas. There is a multimedia guide that is available in Arabic, English, and French and a catalogue available to guide you through them.

Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, exhibit runs until July 13, 10am to 8pm Sat to Wed, 10am to 10pm Thur and Fri, Tel: (600) 565 566, louvreabudhabi.ae

2. Sign up to an immersive leather course

Led by leather specialist, Naresh Kumar of 24th Street in Dubai, this three-day session provides hands-on experience working with leather, covering modes of leather, tanning, tempers, stitching and more. Each participant will emerge with three bespoke leather items such as a passport wallet, tray and cardholder. The course is only for those aged 16 and above, and will cost you Dhs550. Materials will be provided.

Warehouse421, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, 5.30pm to 8.30pm July 11 to 13, 2019 warehouse421.ae

Friday, July 12

3. Book a staycation at the most Instagrammable hotel for less

The stunning Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara was recently ranked as the most Instagrammable hotel in the world by Luxury Travel Advisor, and if you’re looking for a luxury staycation this summer, this is it. Room rates typically start upwards of Dhs3,500, but this summer the five star resort is offering up a special rate for its summer villas, starting at Dhs1,999. You can choose from one, two or three bedrooms and the villas come with their own private pool, a garden courtyard, and spectacular views of the Liwa desert. The deal is only valid during the summer and ends on September 30, 2019 and you can make your bookings here.

Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara, Empty Quarter, Abu Dhabi, Summer special villa offer costs start from Dhs1,999 valid until September 30, Tel: (02) 02 886 2088 qasralsarab.anantara.com 

4. Dine at VaKaVa – Jumeirah’s new Latin restaurant

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers set tongues wagging this month when it welcomed an exciting new restaurant to its repertoire. Latin restaurant VaKaVa is the mischievous twin sister of long-standing UAE favourite, Toro Toro. Both restaurants are the brainchild of Mexican celebrity chef Richard Sandoval. The new restaurant has replaced the same spot held by Toro Toro, in the two-storey spot next to Etihad Towers’ stunning infinity pool.

VaKaVa Pan Latin Grill & Lounge, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi. Monday to Wednesday, 6pm to 2am, Thursday and Friday, 6pm to 3am. Closed Sunday. Tel: (02) 811 5666 jumeirah.com

Saturday, July 13

5. Head to At 25 for a cool breakfast and pool pass package

This Saturday, enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the rooftop of the Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi while taking in the panoramic views. Choose a breakfast item, juice and coffee and the hotel will include pool access until 3pm. The package for adults costs Dhs120 and Dhs60 for children.

Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Old Airport Road), Sat 8am to 3pm, Dhs120 (adults), Dhs60 (children). Tel: (02) 304 7777. marriott.com

6. Thinking about adoptinga furry friend? Head to Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter

If you’re thinking about adopting a pet, head to the Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter in Abu Dhabi. Adoption hours are from 9am to 1pm every Saturday where you can meet your future new member of the family. A list of dogs and cats to be adopted can be found here, where you can also make an appointment to visit them at the shelter. Important to note that all the dogs and cats are neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and treated against fleas and worms.

Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter at Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Al Shamkha, adoption days every Saturday or upon request, Tel: (02) 575 5155 abudhabianimalshelter.com

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Images: provided