6 fun things to do in Abu Dhabi this week: June 29 to July 2

Your guide to what’s worth checking out in Abu Dhabi

Looking for some cool things to do in Abu Dhabi this week? From a striking new photography exhibition and café visits to World Cup matches and live music nights, there’s plenty happening across the city.

Here are 6 fun things to do in Abu Dhabi this week

Catch the adrenaline-pumping World Cup action at Rush Bar

Want to cheer out loud for your World Cup team? Head to Rush Bar Fan Zone at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island. Not only will you get to see every match live, there’s also daily Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm, a buy one get one free offer on selected beverages including craft beers, bottled beers, house red and white wines, and house spirits. Host your team, clients or friends here (minimum 20) and avail of the packages starting from Dhs199.

Where: W Abu Dhabi –  Yas Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily over the World Cup
Contact: 02 656 0000, @wabudhabi

Or…watch the World Cup in ultimate laid-back comfort

Looking for a more laid-back way to catch the World Cup? Head to Mazaj Bab Al Bahr, where you can watch every match live from its air-conditioned outdoor terrace. Tuck into authentic Middle Eastern dishes from the à la carte menu, pair them with premium shisha, and settle in for everything from early kick-offs to late-night thrillers with friends and fellow football fans. Book your spot here.

Where: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Khor Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily 5am to 3am
Contact: 02 654 3333, @fairmontbabalbahr

Check out Abu Dhabi’s newest coffee spot

Coffee lovers, this one’s for you. London-born speciality coffee brand WatchHouse has officially opened its first permanent home in the region at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. Stop by for expertly brewed coffees, including rare and limited-edition beans at its dedicated Rarities bar, then stick around for an all-day dining menu packed with favourites like Turkish eggs, sweetcorn and polenta pancakes, brisket baguettes and freshly baked treats.

Where: The Arcades at Al Khail Square, Al Karamah Street, Abu Dhabi
When: Weekdays 9am to 10pm, weekends 9am to midnight
Contact: watchhouse.com

Head to Saikindō for a Listening Night this Thursday

At Saikindō, everything begins with music. The Hi-Fi cocktail bar inside Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island is built around the listening experience, from its acoustics to its atmosphere. But on Thursdays, the concept takes on a new theme, with beverage director Marco Corallo stepping behind the decks to curate the evening’s soundtrack. The Listening Night series will take you through four of the world’s most influential music cities – New York, Tokyo, London and Berlin, all brought to life through carefully curated vinyl, city-inspired cocktails and a setting designed with sound at its core. Alongside the music, guests can expect cocktails inspired by the flavours and personality of each city. And of course, you can also enjoy the finest of Japanese cuisine at Saikindō, from exquisite robata to sushi and more, elevating your night with indulgent bites.

Where: Saikindō, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Thursdays; 5pm to 3am
Contact: @saikindo @fsabudhabi

Go explore a photography exhibition

The Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi is spotlighting the UAE through a new photography exhibition titled The UAE is Beautiful. Curated by artist Khalid Al Hammadi, the show brings together a selection of works by UAE-based photographers, each offering a unique lens on life across the Emirates – from heritage and identity to everyday moments of connection and belonging. Inspired by the words of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the exhibition celebrates the UAE as a nation of beauty, ambition and shared stories, while a community initiative invites visitors to contribute their own photographs, adding personal perspectives to the evolving display.

Where: Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi, Al Hisn, Abu Dhabi
When: Until July 14
Contact: 02 657 6348, @abudhabicf

Take your lunch break the Italian way

Enjoy a midday break or catch up over a business lunch at Café Milano, where authentic Italian flavours take centre stage. Crafted by Chef Delfino Chiarello and his team, the menu changes daily to highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients and classic Italian inspiration. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 5pm, guests can choose a two-course menu for Dhs175 per person or elevate the experience with a three-course option, complete with dessert, for Dhs195 per person.

Where: Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, The Galleria Al Maryah Island
When: Available Monday to Friday, from 12pm to 5pm
Cost: Two-course business lunch for Dhs175 per person; Three-course business lunch for Dhs195 per person
Contact: 02 333 2222, @cafemilanoae