What's on in Abu Dhabi

Whether you're into music, food or exploring local heritage, Abu Dhabi offers year-round events to keep you and your family entertained.

Weekend destinations

Living in Abu Dhabi means having easy access to a long list of destinations within the emirate that are perfect for a weekend trip away, including Sir Bani Yas island, Al Ain, and the vast expanses of the Empty Quarter and Liwa deserts.

If it’s a longer road trip you're after, the northern tip of Oman – known as the Musandam Peninsula – is a four-hour drive north, where you can dive, snorkel and see pods of dolphins. A six-hour drive east will take you to Oman's spectacular mountains and wadis.

Abu Dhabi’s fantastic location also offers easy access to the Maldives, the Seychelles, Sri Lanka and India – all of which are just a four-hour flight away.

Conservation work

Abu Dhabi is working hard to preserve its indigenous flora and fauna. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is a five sq km marshy wetland area that is home to more than 250 species of birds, from Black Winged Stilts to Greater Spotted Eagles, as well as around 4,000 Greater Flamingos.

Bu Tinah island, 150km off the west coast of Abu Dhabi, has been recognised by the UN as one of the most important sanctuaries in the Indian Ocean for Green and Hawksbill turtles.

On land, great progress has been made to reintroduce the Arabian and Scimitar-horned Oryx, as well as preserving some species of falcon.

Discover local culture

From camel races to dhow races, modern Abu Dhabi is built upon its rich traditions - many of which are still practised today.