Things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend
A locals-first shortlist of what's worth your time in Abu Dhabi this weekend — from outdoor escapes to standout food and live music.
Top spots in Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
CultureAl Maqta
82 marble domes, world's largest hand-knotted carpet — modest dress required.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
CultureSaadiyat Island
Jean Nouvel's perforated dome rains light over a global art collection.
Corniche Beach & Promenade
OutdoorsCorniche
8 km of palm-shaded waterfront — Blue Flag swim zones and cycle path.
Yas Marina Circuit
FamilyYas Island
Drive the F1 track on a Tuesday, ride Ferrari World on a Wednesday.
Qasr Al Watan
CultureRas Al Akhdar
Working presidential palace open to visitors — gold-leaf domes, library.
Mangrove Kayak Tour
OutdoorsEastern Mangroves
Paddle through tidal forests minutes from downtown — flamingos in season.
Where to eat
Mezlai
$$$$Emirati · Emirates Palace
First fine-dining Emirati restaurant — camel, lamb ouzi, dates and saffron rice.
Li Beirut
$$$Lebanese · Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
Skyline views, live oud and the city's gold-standard mezze.
Beirut Sur Mer
$$$Lebanese seafood · Yas Bay
Sea-facing terrace, charcoal-grilled fish and arak by the carafe.
Café Arabia
$$Levantine café · Al Karama
Three-storey Levantine villa — brunch on the rooftop, manakeesh till late.
Live & on stage
Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix
Yas Marina Circuit · Dec 4–7 · Motorsport
Yasalam After-Race Concerts
Etihad Park · Dec 4–7 · Pop / Rock
Abu Dhabi Festival
Emirates Palace · Mar 4 – Apr 4 · Classical / Arts
Saadiyat Nights
Saadiyat Island · Jan 16 – Feb 28 · Pop / Rock
Frequently asked
- Locals' favourites right now: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Corniche Beach & Promenade. The full list is curated weekly and balances outdoor, food, culture and live music picks.