Everything you need to know about visiting Abu Dhabi in April
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April is a transition month for Abu Dhabi, heading from mild pleasant days at the start of the month, usually coinciding with local and European school holidays through to hot days approaching summery highs by months end.
There is always a lot going on about town but many outdoor events, brunches and sporting activities start shutting up by month-end as life moves indoors.
This year, the Holy Month of Ramadan will commence in April, expected to start on 23 April 2020, subject to moon sighting.
Abu Dhabi weather in April
Abu Dhabi’s average day time maximum temperature in April is 31.4c (88.5F), with highs as much as 43c (109.4F) and average lows overnight down to 24.6c (76.3F).
In April, you should expect sea temperatures on average of 25.2c (77.4F). Maximum sea temperatures are expected by month end of a very pleasant 27.7c (79.9F) with minimums of 22.7c (74.9F)
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 April
UPDATE: Many of the events listed below have been cancelled in April 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19
We will update this page if attractions and events do re-open in April 2020.
During April in Abu Dhabi you can expect:
- Mother of Nation Festival – and annual celebration held on the bustling Abu Dhabi Corniche between 26 March to 4 April 2020.
- The last of outdoor winter brunch season. Our favourites include Brunch at the Palace, held in the luscious gardens of Emirates Palace.
- Cinema in the Park – the closing month of this fun family event in Abu Dhabi’s central Umm al Emarat Park, season concluding 25 April 2020. Thursday to Saturday nights, entry to the park only 10 AED per person, the movies are free.
- The much-anticipated opening of Ethiad Arena – the new multi-purpose entertainment venue on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island with the first show Disney on Ice: Frozen 15 to 18 April 2020 (UPDATE postponed to October 2020).
- World Heritage Day at Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Ain 18 April 2020
- Ramadan Iftar season – from the expected start date of Ramadan 23 April, hotels and restaurants across the city open their doors at sunset for the breaking of the fast.
Suggested Abu Dhabi activities in April
April, when it’s really starting to warm up, is a great time of year to look at some water and poolside activities.
We suggest in April you will want to mix things up with being indoors during the peak of the day, and enjoying early morning and evenings outside to enjoy the mild nighttime temperatures.
Why not try:
- Hiring an early morning kayak from the Eastern Mangroves, followed by breakfast on the Eastern Mangroves Promenade.
- Take a guided speed boat tour around Abu Dhabi’s extensive coastline- there are Yas Marina options as well as tours that leave from the Emirates Palace Marina.
- Enjoy a day trip to relax on the stunning little Al Maya Island.
- Stroll the Corniche in the evening, or even better hire a bike or a scooter from the central Corniche plaza to get the most of Abu Dhabi’s 8km long beach frontage.
Day trips from Abu Dhabi in April
- April is a great time of year for the last of camping an outdoor season. If you don’t have access to your own tent, why not head to Sir Bani Yas Island to enjoy this stunning nature reserve (an overnight stay at one of the beachfront villas is highly recommended!)
- Try the refreshing Al Ain Oasis on a day trip to the Garden City, Al Ain.
- It’s still pleasant enough in the evenings to enjoy a desert safari, admire the sparkling dunes at sunset followed by a traditional Bedouin experience under the stars.
Abu Dhabi with kids in April
The kids will no doubt be happy sitting poolside in April so staying at one of the lovely city resort hotels with kids club will be an absolute winner at this time of year. We love the family-friendly facilities at:
- Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island – Ultra All Inclusive
- Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
- The St Regis Abu Dhabi, on the Abu Dhabi Corniche
Check children’s ages in advance, but many will allow day time child care which can free you up to enjoy some of the city’s more cultural attractions that may not hold their attention for long.
Check out the best things to do in Abu Dhabi every month here
Before you go… Important things to consider 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.
- 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: