Abu Dhabi is preparing for a packed entertainment season as the capital’s official Abu Dhabi Calendar reveals a full lineup of cultural, sports, music, and lifestyle events set to run across the emirate through 2026.
Covering everything from international concerts and blockbuster sporting events to art exhibitions and culinary festivals, the 2025–2026 season aims to offer something for every audience.
September highlights
UAE Warriors 64 – High-energy MMA bouts return to Abu Dhabi, kicking off the season.
Louvre Abu Dhabi: Mamluks – Legacy of an Empire – A major exhibition showcasing Islamic craftsmanship, running through January.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live – Family-friendly entertainment for motorsport fans of all ages.
October highlights
Concerts – Performances by Smashing Pumpkins, Andre Rieu, Abdul Majeed Abdullah, and comedian Sebastian Maniscalco.
NBA Abu Dhabi Games presented by ADQ – Basketball action returns, along with the NBA District fan experience.
Combat sports – Includes Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, UFC 321, and related events like open workouts and weigh-ins.
Cultural events – Sheikh Zayed Festival, Bait Al Oud Strings Concert, Golden Ink exhibition, Art Here 2025, and Two Clouds in the Night Sky by Emirati artist Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim.
November highlights
Concerts – Live shows by Enrique Iglesias and Travis Scott.
Food festivals – Michelin Guide Food Festival Abu Dhabi, Taste of Abu Dhabi, and Open Fire Food Festival.
Cultural festivals – Traditional Handicrafts Festival, Maritime Heritage Festival, Abu Dhabi Art, Manar Abu Dhabi, and Sounds of UAE.
Theatre – Beetlejuice The Musical at Etihad Arena.
December highlights
Concerts – Rod Stewart, Arijit Singh, and Saadiyat Nights with Ludovico Einaudi and Lewis Capaldi.
Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 – A major motorsport highlight to close the year.
Liwa Village & Liwa International Festival – Outdoor experiences with live music and adventure in Al Dhafra Region.
Mother of the Nation Festival – Family-friendly activities across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.
Additional events are expected to be announced as the season progresses. The full Abu Dhabi Calendar is available online, offering regular updates and booking information.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
