8 brilliant things to do this weekend in Abu Dhabi: September 15 to 17

The crowds are back in the capital, and here’s a quick roundup of things for you to enjoy this weekend…

Friday, September 15

Swing by VaKaVa for lovely Latin flavours

Culinary gem VaKaVa, acclaimed for its popular Latin American flavors has returned to the Conrad Etihad Towers by popular demand. You can look forward to a tantalising gastronomic journey with Latin tastes leading the way, from the kitchen of Chef Eber. VaKaVa’s excellence is on offer for you to enjoy this weekend, as the minds at the Conrad aim to redefine your dining experience.

VaKaVa, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Tuesday to Sunday 7:00pm to 11:00pm, Saturday 2:00pm to 7:00pm. Tel: (0) 2 811 5666, @vakavaabudhabi

Enjoy a candle light concert in tribute to Coldplay

This Friday, wind down after a long week with a Candlelight concerts in tribute to everyone’s favourite contemporary music act, Coldplay. With 3 shows taking place at New York University, pianist Aldo Dotto will keep you mesmerised with a stunning performance that will be be illuminated all along by the inimitable glow of candle light.

Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay, New York University Blue Hall, Abu Dhabi, Friday September 15, from 5pm, Dhs150. @candlelight.concerts

Saturday, September 16

Attend the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards Abu Dhabi

Celebrate fan favourites from the worlds of film, television, music and sports this Saturday at the Etihad Arena. The ‘slimiest party of the year’ will feature a great line-up of talented artists, including international superstar Jessie J, Now United, Elyanna and Issam AlNajjar. The star-studded awards show will also celebrate multi-award-winning singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, actress and songwriter Olivia Rodrigo, singer-songwriter Anne-Marie and global pop phenomenon Justin Bieber.

Gastronomic grandeur takes centre stage at BB Social Dining

Witness legendary gastronomy, as BB Social Dining at the Rosewood Abu Dhabi  hosts 2 Michelin star chef, Victoria Blamey from New York. Victoria will create culinary brilliance, helping cement Abu Dhabi’s reputation as the hospitality capital of the Middle East.

BB Social Dining, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Saturday September 16, 12pm to 10pm. Tel: (0)2 813 5550, @bbabudhabi

Roll up to Hakkasan for Saturday Dim Sum

Satisfy your Dim Sum cravings at Hakkasan, with a sumptuous spread of delicacies featuring delights such as soft-shell crab taro croquettes, truffle chicken Xiao Long Bao, fresh Chilean sea bass dumplings, roasted duck pumpkin dumplings, and king crab dumplings. All that writing has worked up an appetite, and we can’t imagine reading would’ve made it any easier for you.

Hakkasan, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, Saturday 12pm to 3:30pm, Dhs98 for 3 baskets, Dhs138 for 5 baskets. Tel: (0)2 690 7739, @hakkasanabudhabi

Sunday, September 17

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day at Amerigos

Get in the groove for a colourful, flavourful Mexican fiesta at Amerigos, where everyone’s invited to celebrate Mexican Independence Day in style this weekend. What awaits is a night of mouthwatering Mexican specialties including sizzling fajitas and zesty tacos, hopping live entertainment, and electric vibes throughout.

Amerigos, Park Inn Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Sunday September 17 12:30pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft drinks, Dhs299 house drinks (Acapulco edition). Tel: (0)2 656 2412, @amerigosyasisland

Descend on Avobar to get your Avocado fix

Yas Mall is now home to Avobar, right here in the capital. Balanced, healthy dishes now come to you paired with specialty coffees, the perfect way to kickstart your weekend and get your healthy bites in. The London brand serves up interesting specialties inspired by Emirati culture and includes signature toasts, bowls and salads, as well as gluten-free specialties, desserts and pastries.

Avobar, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm. @avobar_ae

Embrace terrific tranquility at Anjana Spa

Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island invites you this weekend, to rediscover your inner tranquility and embark on a journey of serenity at Anjana Spa. During this special World Wellness Weekend celebration, guests can enjoy an exciting 25 per cent discount on all spa treatments. Immerse yourself in a unique experience that blends Turkish hospitality with Moroccan elegance, as you luxuriate in the property’s endless avenues for rejuvenation.

Anjana Spa, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (0)2 492 2222, @anjanaspa.saadiyat