Fun festive things to do in Abu Dhabi this week: December 26 to 28

2023 bids goodbye as we’re into its final, festive week. Here are some fun things to keep you entertained…

Tuesday, December 26

Winter Fest at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s renowned ‘Winterfest on Ice’ is a skating spectacle you do not want to miss, and highly skilled skaters, acrobats and aerialists will deliver thrilling performances. With seven cast members and three roaming talents showcasing acts such as Diabolo, hand balance and ladder balance, get set to be captivated and thrilled at the Red Theater.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 11am to 8pm daily. Tel: 600 511115. @ferrariworldyasisland

Grab Lunch at marvellous Mika

Yas Marina’s exciting new eat, Mika lets you dine a chance to revel in festive dining this week, as you creative timeless memories with your loved ones. Pick between lunch or dinner from a menu boasting sharing-style appetisers, including a super seafood platter and the cured salmon carpaccio. For mains, the forest mushroom risotto and succulent cod fillet beckon, and for your irresistible festive dessert, Nonna’s tiramisu and “Babbo Natale” Sundae are options you cannot miss.

Mika, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, December 26, from Dhs350. Tel: (056) 433 1422. @mika.abudhabi 

Wednesday, December 27

Sip Festive Afternoon Tea at the Crystal Lounge

Embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy an indulgent festive afternoon tea at the Crystal Lounge, where you can relish an array of freshly baked scones, seasonal sandwiches, festive flavours and brilliant holiday desserts. Make things merrier with a fragrant selection of loose and herbal infusion teas.

Crystal Lounge, St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, December 4 to 30, 2pm to 6pm. Tel: (0)2 694 4553. @stregisabudhabi

Enjoy amazing cultural attractions at the Liwa Festival

The Liwa Festival rolls on until New Year’s Eve, and guests can continue to enjoy concerts, family activities, shows, rides, arcade gaming, spectacular immersive dining opportunities, engaging demonstrations of Emirati heritage and crafts, eGaming tournaments, souk shopping from top-tier local fashion brands and more. Great way to close out the year.

Liwa Festival 2023, Liwa Village, Liwa Desert, Dec 16 to 31. @liwavillage

Thursday, December 28

Get gaming at MOTN

Along with the year, we’re also heading into the final week of Abu Dhabi’s beloved Mother of the Nation (MOTN) festival. If you haven’t yet (and even if you have), stop by their Thrill Zone, where you can see if you’ve still got it at their arcade. The perfect playground for retro-gamers and modern arcade lovers, gaming enthusiasts will find everything from nostalgic arcade games to full bowling alleys for friendly group matches.

Abu Dhabi Corniche, December 8 to 31, 4pm to midnight daily, Dhs30 (online), Dhs37 (on the door). motn.ae