Everything you need to know about visiting Abu Dhabi in February
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Abu Dhabi enjoys mild winter days in February. Towards the end of the month, temperatures gradually increase, heralding the start of spring. It is an ideal time of year to visit Abu Dhabi for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of sporting and cultural events.
February 2026 will see the start of the holy month of Ramadan, due to begin on the 17th February, subject to the sighting of the new moon. This should have minimal impact on your visit, with most restaurants and cafes remaining open throughout the month. Eating and drinking outside of licensed premises is, however, still strictly prohibited out of respect for Muslim residents who are fasting.
For more information about what to expect from Abu Dhabi during Ramadan, click here.
Abu Dhabi Weather in February
Abu Dhabi’s average daytime maximum temperature in February is 24.2°C (75.6°F), with extreme highs of 36.2°C (97.1°F) by month’s end, and average overnight lows of 18.6°C (65.5°F).
In February, you should expect the coldest sea temperatures of the year, with an average of 21.1°C (70°F). Maximum sea temperatures are expected to be 22.4°C (71.3°F) through to a chilly minimum of 19.9°C (68.8°F).
Make no mistake, no matter what time of year you visit Abu Dhabi, you will still want a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses – you can find our full packing list tips for Abu Dhabi here.
Weather information sourced from the National Centre of Meteorology Climate Report 2003-2019 for Abu Dhabi Corniche and seatemperature.org
Abu Dhabi Special Events in February 2026
February is the perfect time to get outdoors in Abu Dhabi. There’s often an action-packed lineup of outdoor concerts and festivals to make the most of the final month of milder weather.
However, this year, the holy month of Ramadan is set to begin from sundown on 17 February, which may affect the usual events calendar. Whilst there may be a downturn in concerts and sporting events, Ramadan will bring nights of festivity, as the Muslim population breaks their daily fasts with iftar meals around the city.
These range from simple one-dish affairs to elaborate 5* buffets. There will be Ramadan night markets and special cultural events galore, so don’t forget to check this page again before your visit for the most up-to-date information!
Please note that we are currently updating these listings for 2026. We will add new events as information becomes available. Please check back before your trip for the most up to date information.
Cultural Events in Abu Dhabi this February
- The Al Hosn Festival 2026 will conclude on 1 February 2026 – Qasr al Hosn
- The Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival, which is held on purpose-built festival showgrounds in Al Wathba, is in full swing during February. The festival will, however, conclude slightly early this year, in line with the start of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
- The Al Ain Heritage Festival is running from 31 January through to 9 February 2026 at ADNEC Centre, Al Ain.
- Experience the Kayan Wellness Festival on 6 & 7 February 2026, which promises feel-good vibes and holistic living experiences – Fahid Island
- Animena Abu Dhabi festival returns from 11 to 15 February 2026 – Manarat Al Saadiyat
- Al Dhafra Water Festival is usually scheduled for February/March but we are yet to see confirmed dates for 2026 – Al Mughaira Beach, Al Dhafra (Western Region).
- The holy month of Ramadan is due to start on or around the 18th February (subject to the moon sighting). As the sun sets during Ramadan, the city comes alive with vibrant iftar (the traditional meal to break the daily fast) gatherings in a wide range of venues. From elaborate hotel buffets to simple set menus at roadside cafes, joining an iftar is a real Middle Eastern experience. To find out more about iftar in Abu Dhabi ,click here.
Live Music & Theatre
- Peppa Pig will be having another ‘Fun Day Out’ at the Etihad Arena on 1 February 2026.
- Enjoy the Saadiyat Nights concert series, with legendary songstress Mariah Carey on 7 February, followed by Canadian superstar Bryan Adams on February 11. Making his Abu Dhabi debut John Mayer will take to the stage on 15 February with the season’s closing performance – Saadiyat Island.
- Enjoy music from the UAE National Orchestra, who will be performing their ‘Faces of Love’ concert at the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation on 4 February.
- Ink – Huang Yi Studio + will truly mesmerize you with their unique blend of dance, technology, and calligraphy live at New York University Arts Center on 5 February.
- The UAE National Orchestra will also be offering a unique ‘Journey East’ in a performance that questions what could have unfolded if Vivaldi had encounter the music and instruments of the Arab world – New York University Theatre – 7 February. For a more traditional approach Russian Classics on 14 February will celebrate the music of Shostakovich, Stravinsky and Tchaikovsky – also at New York University Theatre.
- Furusiyya, offers a unique insight into arab horsemanship on 7, 14 & 28 February 2026.
- Don’t forget to visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi this month for their special exhibition featuring the works of Picasso. To find out more about ‘Picasso The Figure’, click here.
Sporting events in Abu Dhabi this February
- Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open Tennis WTA 500 (Women’s Tournament) will take place from 31 Jan to 7 February 2026 – Abu Dhabi International Tennis Centre
- The UCI UAE Cycling Tour will include a women’s race from 5-8 February 2026, and the men’s race between February 16 and 22 – various locations.
- TriYas Triathlon event returns for its 16th Edition on 14 February 2026 – Yas Marina Circuit
Suggested Abu Dhabi Tourist Activities in February 2026
Given the weather, you undoubtedly want to experience the best of Abu Dhabi outdoors during February. Why not try:
- Qasr Al Hosn – found in the centre of Abu Dhabi island. Home to Abu Dhabi’s original landmark building the Al Hosn Fort, this is the perfect place to come and take a step back through history during the cool and pleasant winter months, with a variety of indoor and outdoor displays.
- Kayak the Mangroves – there are a couple of superb spots to do this, both close to town. Try the Mangroves National Park at Eastern Mangroves (adjacent to the Anantara Hotel)! Kayaking is now also available at Jubail Mangrove Park, Reem Island and around the Louvre, Saadiyat Island.
- A city boat tour – A fabulous way to see the city made up of hundreds of islands; there are several departure locations and types of boats, from thrilling speed boats to more sedate traditional dhows to get out on the water and enjoy the fresh winter air.
- Enjoy an evening in the desert – most tour operators are again taking visitors to the rich golden dunes just outside of the city for a unique and memorable desert experience. Expect dune bashing, quad biking and a camel ride before settling into evening entertainment, including BBQ dinner and a dance show over shisha and henna painting.
- Enjoy the spoils of Valentine’s Day which will be widely marked at hospirality venues across the capital on Friday 14 February, and no doubt alla cross the weekend with romantic dinners and more!
- And should you find that there’s a wet and windy day, perhaps visit Abu Dhabi’s ‘Prison Island’, a network of 26 challenging escape rooms tucked inside Abu Dhabi Mall.
Day Trips from Abu Dhabi in February 2026
February is a great time to explore all that the UAE has to offer. Whilst a day trip to Dubai is an obvious choice for many visitors, here are some of the UAE’s lesser-known day trips:
- A day exploring Jebel Hafeet Desert Park – Explore the 5000-year-old beehive tombs and many hiking trails at the foot of Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain. There are also overnight camping and glamping options to consider here.
- Visit Al Ain Oasis and the various forts and palaces in Abu Dhabi’s ‘Garden City’. See how dates have been cultivated for generations using the elaborate aflaj system and visit the Palace of Sheikh Zayed, the UAE’s founding father. Try this day tour, which will include your guide and transportation.
Abu Dhabi with Kids in February 2026
There’s still plenty of fun for the kids to have outside during February 2024. Why not try:
- The CircuitX experiences on Al Hudayriat Island. Ropes course, zipline, rock climbing, and free fall are all on offer at one location, or head over to the beach and Marsana for the Skate Park and Splash Pad as the afternoons in Abu Dhabi start to heat up for Spring.
- Yas Waterworld will remain open throughout the winter this year, so grab those bathers and get ready for action! (and yes, much of the park has heated water in Feb!)
- For a cheap family outing, you can’t go past Umm Al Emarat Park with an extensive winter program of entertainment.
Indoors, there are several great experiences to be enjoyed in Abu Dhabi, such as:
- SeaWorld Yas Island is a great addition to the theme park lineup and is worth a spot on your family itinerary in Abu Dhabi.
- The Galleria on Al Maryah Island is home to several indoor family experiences, ideal for those occasional rainy days, including Caboodle, Mission Play! By Mattel, National Geographic Ultimate Explorer, Xtreme Zone, Pop in and Play, Zero Latency (VR Games) and Game Over escape rooms.
Check out the best things to do in Abu Dhabi every month here
Before you go… Important Things to Consider When Planning a Trip to Abu Dhabi
- Pop into our essential planning information page; it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi, a handy guide on what to pack, as well as top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.
- Start planning your itinerary around the 60+ top places to visit in Abu Dhabi
- Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!
- Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:
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