Unmissable events in Abu Dhabi

Winter has arrived, and in Abu Dhabi, that means a season packed with non-stop entertainment and an exciting lineup of events! Here are our top picks from the Abu Dhabi Calendar to add to your must-see list.

Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023

Get ready for the 2023 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, an exhilarating race covering 58 laps of the breathtaking 5.3-kilometer Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island. Witness the talent of some of the world's most renowned drivers, featuring the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Max Verstappen. But it's not just about race day— the entire weekend will be brimming with exciting activities around the track, including catching global music superstars gracing the stage at the Yasalam after-race concerts.

When: 23 - 26 November 2023

Where: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island

Yasalam After-Race Concerts

When the on-track action line comes to an end each day, the fun doesn't stop; it shifts to Etihad Park where the Yasalam After-Race Concerts are set to host global music icons! Ava Max and Tiesto set the stage alight with their infectious tunes on Thursday November 23rd and Chris Brown brings his classic R&B hits to Abu Dhabi on Friday November 24th. Be sure to get your cowboy boots ready as Shania Twain prepares to wow the crowds on Saturday November 25th. Then to cap off the weekend with a bang on Sunday November 26th are the Foo Fighters with what's set to be a grand musical finale! Tickets are included with every Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket plus you can upgrade to the Golden Circle if you want to get closer to the action!

When: 23 - 26 November 2023

Where: Etihad Park

Yasalam After-Race Concerts

Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2024

Feel the rush of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open as it gears up for another thrilling edition at the International Tennis Centre in February 2024. With the partnership of Mubadala and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, this WTA 500 event is a must-see for tennis fans, especially with the participation of Ons Jabeur, the current top-10 sensation. Jabeur's eager return, fueled by fan affection, heightens the anticipation for what's set to be a tournament to remember. As Jabeur looks forward to "getting on court for this incredible tournament," fans can expect matches filled with world-class tennis action.

When: 3 - 11 February 2024

Where: International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City

Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2024

World Tennis League

The World Tennis League is back in Abu Dhabi for a spectacular second season, promising to be an unmissable showstopper and the "Greatest Show on Court". The tournament will feature a star-studded roster, including women's world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and men's world No. 3 Daniil Medvedev. Tennis powerhouses like Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andrey Rublev will also be joining the line-up to wow the fans. With players divided into four teams—the Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, and Kites—the competition will be fierce across singles and doubles matches, culminating in a grand finale where the top teams battle it out for the championship. There’s unmissable action off the court as well as 50 Cent, Akon, Ne-Yo, and UB40 are all ready to provide musical entertainment at the end of each day!

When: 21 - 24 December 2023

Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island

World Tennis League

Abu Dhabi Art 2023

This one's for the creatives and art enthusiasts. Abu Dhabi's annual art fair is back and better than ever before. The 15th edition of Abu Dhabi Art is expected to be the largest yet, featuring more than 90 galleries from over 30 countries, including first-time debuts from Georgia, Mexico, Singapore, and Chile. Head over to Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi's cultural district - Saadiyat Island - and wander through a unique artistic showcase that will leave you inspired.

When: 22 - 26 November 2023

Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island

Abu Dhabi Art 2023

Al Ain Book Festival 2023

If you love books, take a trip to the Al Ain Book Festival in Abu Dhabi! This special event is a great place to celebrate stories and culture from the United Arab Emirates. It has grown to be a favourite spot for those who love to read and enjoy new ideas from Emirati writers and artists. At the festival, books are more than just words on a page – you get to enjoy stories through poetry readings, live theatre, movies, art and music. It's a place where both famous Emirati talents and new, young creators show their work.

When: 19 - 25 November 2023

Where: Al Ain

Al Ain Book Festival 2023

52nd National Day

National Day marks the union of the seven emirates into one nation, the United Arab Emirates and is celebrated across the country every December 2nd since 1971. There's something for everyone to enjoy all weekend. Dive into tradition at Heritage Village with artisans and live dance shows, or snag unmissable deals in the city's shops and malls.

There's no better time for your taste buds to try Emirati flavours in local eateries or to get adventurous on desert safaris and cool evening cruises. With festive vibes and pleasant weather, it's the perfect time for you to take in everything Abu Dhabi has to offer.

When: 2 December 2023

Where: Across Abu Dhabi

52nd National Day

Sheikh Zayed Festival

Experience the wonder of the UAE's heritage at the iconic Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi—an unmissable festival of culture and joy. With breathtaking shows, engaging cultural activities and a celebration of the Emirates' rich traditions, the festival is an event not to be missed. It's a vibrant tribute to Sheikh Zayed's visionary legacy, offering a unique window into the spirit of unity and the UAE's warm embrace of global cultural dialogue.

When: 17 November 2023 - 9 March 2024

Where: Al Wathba

Sheikh Zayed Festival
Win the Golden Ticket!
Join our biggest competition yet for a chance to win a Golden Ticket that grants access to the greatest events in Abu Dhabi this winter. One Golden Ticket will give you a pair of tickets to a bunch of eligible events.