Is there an official opening date yet for Harry Potter Abu Dhabi?

While there is no final official opening date, the wording on the WB World Abu Dhabi website has been updated to reflect a 2029 opening for Harry Potter in Abu Dhabi.

What will the Abu Dhabi Harry Potter park be called?

While the theme park extension doesn’t have an overall name yet, we do know it will have three ‘lands’

• Diagon Alley
• Hogwarts Castle
• The Forbidden Forest

The extension will be made to the existing WB World Abu Dhabi theme park on Yas Island. Estimates are that it will increase the existing 1.65 million square foot venue by 50%.

Whilst the timing of this news might disappoint Potterheads, the great news is that there are still a ton of fun theme parks and activities to enjoy on Yas Island before the opening; we wouldn’t delay a trip to Yas Island until the new Potter land comes to life!

Theme Parks Currently on Yas Island

Yas Island, on the outskirts of the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, is currently home to four world-class and award-winning theme parks, all operated by Miral:

• Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi – themed around Looney Tunes classic characters, The Flintstones, and superheroes and villains from DC Comics – learn more here

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – mostly famous for having the fastest roller coaster in the world and many thrilling rides with a distinctly Italian sports car theme – learn more here

• Yas Waterworld – an award-winning outdoor water park with a local Emirati theme and over 40 rides and attractions. A further 18 rides were added in July 2025 as part of current expansion works – learn more here

• SeaWorld – the most recent opening in 2023, is focused on marine life and houses the largest indoor aquarium in the world, attached to the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Center – learn more here

Still to come on Yas Island

• Miral has announced a partnership with The Walt Disney Company to bring a new Disney Park to Yas Island—again, no opening date given, but an incredible, exciting addition to an already stellar lineup. Early estimates seem to be leaning toward an opening in 7-8 years – the project is presently only at the ‘Imagineering’ stage. We’d estimate 2031-32
• The Sphere is also on the cards, with development due to start on this Yas Island mega project this year. This will bring another internationally recognised entertainment venue to the capital, with an estimated launch in 2030.

Can You Get Theme Park Packages in Abu Dhabi?

Many visitors to Abu Dhabi come purely for the theme parks, and you can get great hotel packages that include your daily theme park tickets.

• There are now 10 hotels on Yas Island that you can look to stay in at different budget levels – two are fairly adjacent to WB World – The WB Hotel – Curio Collection by Hilton, and Doubletree By Hilton Abu Dhabi.

• High-end options include the W Abu Dhabi, straddling the Yas Marina Circuit Grand Prix racing track, and the Hilton Abu Dhabi on Yas Bay.

• Value options are available at Yas Hotel Plaza, a group of 6 hotels covering popular chains, including Rotana and Crowne Plaza.

We have a complete guide to navigating Yas Island, including how the shuttle services work, over here.

Frequently, hotels in other parts of Abu Dhabi will also offer Yas Island theme park tickets. Look for hotels and resorts on Saadiyat Island that may have special offers for this (you’re only about 15 minutes away by taxi) or even some city centre hotels.

What will be at Harry Potter World Abu Dhabi?

The exact format and ride names will be a closely held secret until launch, but we are assured there will be many exclusive rides and attractions not seen anywhere else in the world.

One thing is for sure: You can be almost certain you’ll be buying your butterbeer and walking down Diagon Alley in wonderfully air-conditioned indoor bliss.

What do you think, Potterheads? What will be on your wish list for this new instalment of Harry Potter in the UAE?

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

When you’re in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s bustling capital and cultural heart, you’re never at a loss for things to do. Whether you’re looking for local cultural performances, grand sporting events, or international big-name acts, Abu Dhabi has it all.

Events listed in this year’s Abu Dhabi calendar could be significantly disrupted due to the regional conflict. We’re doing our best to update with postponements and cancellations.

You may also want to check out our guides to:

• The best time of year to visit Abu Dhabi – weather and other religious events that may impact your Abu Dhabi trip are explained.
• Abu Dhabi Public Holidays 2026: plan your travels around known long weekends and national celebrations.

We have included links where possible to platforms such as TicketMaster, Fever and Platinumlist, who are major ticket sellers in the UAE authorised to sell tickets for the mentioned events. We may earn an affiliate commission on qualifying purchases you make after clicking on these links. This does not change the price you pay.

Abu Dhabi Events January 2026

• New Year’s Day, 1 January 2026, is always a UAE Public Holiday. Public services will be closed, and some tourist attractions, shopping malls, and dining establishments may have unusual opening hours. Always check with the establishment before turning up.
• Catch the last few days of the Liwa International Festival, concluding on 3 January 2026 – Liwa Village
• The Etihad Arena is sure to host some big names in 2026 and will kick off the year with internationally renowned American rock band Linkin Park performing as part of their From Zero World Tour on January 20.
• Saadiyat Nights, a brilliant open-air concert series, will return in winter 2026. The lineup so far includes Diana Ross, Lewis Capaldi, Ricky Martin, John Mayer, and Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi are confirmed – Saadiyat Island (map)
• Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out will be hitting the stage from 30 January to 1 February 2026 – Etihad Arena
• Emirati Cultural Event Al Hosn Festival will take place from 17 January to 1 February 2026 – Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi City

Abu Dhabi Events February 2026

• Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open Tennis WTA 500 (Women’s Tournament) will take place from 31 January to 7 February – Abu Dhabi International Tennis Centre
• The UAE National Orchestra will debut Season 1 in Abu Dhabi with ‘Faces of Love‘ on 4 February 2026 and ‘Vivaldi: A Journey East‘ on 7 February 2026 – Abu Dhabi Cultural Fountain/The Arts Center at NYU
• The Open Masters Games seeks to unite the world through sport in Abu Dhabi, with competitions in 33 different sports from 6-15 February 2026 – various venues
• Yas Speed Festival brings plenty of motor sports track action to Yas Island on 7 & 8 February 2026 with the Asian Le Mans Series, Gulf Procar Championship and Gulf Radical Cup all taking place, alongside Yas Motor Majlis Car Meet – Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island
• Your last chance to catch Saadiyat Nights with Mariah Carey on 7 February 2026, Bryan Adams on 11 February 2026, and John Mayer on 15 February 2026 –Saadiyat Island
• A celebration of anime culture in the UAE, Animena Abu Dhabi festival returns from 11 to 15 February 2026 – Manarat Al Saadiyat
• Furusiyya: The Return to Origins offers a unique insight into Arab horsemanship with shows on 7, 14 & 28 February 2026 – Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts, Al Jubail Island
• Popular sporting event TriYAS is back for its 16th edition on 14 February 2026 – Yas Marina Circuit
• Romance is in the air as Valentine’s Day is widely celebrated at venues across the city. Most offers for Valentine’s Day run only on 14 February, but some hotels have week—or even month-long offers to look out for.
• Look out for the UCI UAE Cycling Tour, which will include a women’s race from 5-8 February 2026, and the men’s race between February 16 and 22 – various locations.
• Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival concludes on 28 February 2026 – Al Wathba
• For some more local culture, head along to the Maritime Heritage Festival – dates TBC 2026 – A’l Bahar, Abu Dhabi Corniche
• The Holy Month of Ramadan will commence on or about the evening of 17 Feb 2026 and last approximately 29-30 days. Note that most live entertainment stops at this time – all religious dates are subject to Moon Sighting.

Abu Dhabi Events March 2026

Abu Dhabi upcoming events from here on in could be impacted by the current Middle East geopolitical situtation

• Non-Muslims should be aware of daylight fasting over Ramadan, but why not locally join in with an Iftar for breaking of the fast or overnight Suhoor to mark the occasion?
• International Women’s Day will be widely marked in events and special offers across the city on 8 March 2026 – various locations
• Get your colour on for Holi Festivities, set to occur this year on 4 March 2026 – various city venues
• Color Splash will take place after Ramadan on 28 March 2026 – Yas Gateway Park North CANCELLED
• The World Triathlon Championship Series has traditionally occurred in Abu Dhabi in March, 2026 TBC – Yas Marina Circuit CANCELLED
• St Patrick’s Day will be widely marked across the city on, 17 March 2026 – various city venues
• Mother’s Day is marked at many city-wide restaurants, cafes, and spas offering specials for the ladies (UAE 21 March; UK 15 March 2026) – various locations
• Mary Poppins, the West End stage show 25 March to April 2026 – Etihad Arena CANCELLED
• The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid-al Fitr celebrations across the city, with special deals on dining extravaganzas /and fireworks. The Public holiday is estimated for 19 March – 22 March 2026 (Ramadan 30 to Shawwal 3)- venues across the city.

Abu Dhabi Events April 2026

• Easter in Abu Dhabi, although not formally marked as a holiday in the UAE, is widely celebrated in the retail and hospitality industry (Easter Sunday, 5 April, 2026 for Catholics and Anglican Church members (CofE), and Sunday, 12 April, for Orthodox Christians) – church services and events across the city
• Experience pop sensation Tarkan Live on 17 April 2026 (postponed to 27 November) – Etihad Arena
• BRED Abu Dhabi Neoculture Festival is returning from 22 to 26 April (POSTPONED) – Yas Island
• Christina Aguilera will bring her unforgettable pop anthems to town on 24 April 2026 – Etihad Arena
• Middle East Film and Comic Con from 24 to 26 April 2026 (postponed to 11-13 September 2026) – ADNEC
• Off Limits Festival has also been announced, with Shakira headlining this open format 12-hour event on 26 April 2026 (Postponed to 21 November) – Etihad Park

Abu Dhabi Events May 2026

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

Abu Dhabi Weather in September

Abu Dhabi’s average daytime maximum temperature in September is 37.4°C (99.3°F), with highs as much as 45°C (113°F) and average lows overnight down to 31°C (87.8°F). The “feels like” temperature, which takes into account humidity, can often be as high in September as it is in August.

In September, you should expect sea temperatures of 33.5°C (92.3°F) on average. Maximum sea temperatures are expected at 34.6°C (93.4°F) through to a minimum of 32.5°C (91.3°F) by the end of the month.

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 September 2026

This section is still being updated with events. Please note that we are still seeing last-minute cancellations due to the ongoing regional conflict.

• The hit musical based on Roald Dahl’s classic, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, continues its run at the Etihad Arena with the final show on September 6. (This event has been deferred to 14-23 May, 2027)
• After being delayed from March, The Middle East Film and Comic Convention will hit the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 11 to 13 September 2026. Guest appearances will include John Cena, Simu Liu and Pom Klementieff)
• The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, postponed from April, will take place from 13 to 18 September 2026 – ADNEC
• Furusiyya: Return to Origins brings a unique equestrian performance to the capital on 12 September at Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts, Al Jubail Island
• Experience the artistry of the China National Peking Opera Company at the Cultural Foundation, 17 September 2026
• On the 19 and 20 September, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks will head to the Etihad Arena with a glow-fire party! (event cancelled, new dates TBC in 2027)
• Saudi National Day, celebrated on September 23, is widely observed in the UAE community, often marked by fireworks at prominent locations.
• For a chilled-out classical evening, join the Candlelight: Coldplay vs Imagine Dragons concert at the Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental on 26 September.
• September 26 also welcomes All-Star Sumo to Space 42 Arena with a rare chance to see some of the best Sumo wrestlers in the world!
• Alternatively, get set for K-POP Fever, a massive tribute concert featuring songs from top K-Pop bands at the Etihad Arena on 26 September.
• The Etihad Arena will also host Iconic Irish band, The Corrs, on 27 September (cancelled – new dates TBC)

Schools traditionally return in late August or early September, so it is a quieter time of year at resorts and attractions than August – though you can expect the waterside on weekends to remain busy while families and locals try to beat the heat.

Suggested Abu Dhabi Activities in September 2026

While the weather remains extremely hot outside, limit outdoor activities to early mornings and evenings, and be mindful of the humidity.

It is best to focus on indoor activities when visiting Abu Dhabi in September. We recommend you try:

• Afternoon tea at one of Abu Dhabi’s top hotels
• Explore the indoor Mina Fish Market in Mina Zayed
• Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi or explore one of the many new museums to open in the Saadiyat Cultural District
• Catch up on some local history at Qasr al Hosn and the House of Artisans
• Sky-high views and dining can be enjoyed at Observation 300, or enjoy sundowners at Rays Bar
• Enjoy the marine life at the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi in Al Qana

Day Trips from Abu Dhabi in September 2026

It is not the best time of year for a day trip beyond Abu Dhabi in the heat. However, some nearby experiences you could try include:

• A daycation to Al Maya Island & Resort – boats depart from near the Palace
• Take a tour of some of Al Ain’s historical attractions, including the UNESCO Heritage Listed Al Ain Oasis (often several degrees cooler than the capital).

Heading down the road to Dubai? You can check out more of what’s happening in Dubai in September here

Abu Dhabi With Kids in September 2026

In September, you will still want to seek out indoor activities and water parks to keep cool. We recommend you try:

On Yas Island

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (indoor adrenaline theme park, most appropriate for ages 10+)
• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi (indoor theme park appropriate to all ages)
• Yas Waterworld (Now expanded with 18 new attractions opening in summer 2025)
• SeaWorld Yas Island (indoor theme park for all ages)
• CLYMB Abu Dhabi (climbing walls and indoor flight chamber)

Elsewhere in the city

• Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island, has the most comprehensive range of indoor activities, from bowling and trampolines at Extreme zone, to escape rooms, VR experiences, the LEGO Pop-in-and-play centre, and Caboodle, which little kids will love.
• After dark, you can explore the beautiful parks and playgrounds at Umm Al Emarat, or visit several spots dotted along the Corniche for evening relief for little ones.
• Younger children will like an evening stroll and play at the Circuit X Splash Park at Marsana, Al Hudayriyat Island – see the night beach deal above too to make a complete evening of it

You can find a detailed guide of things to do in Abu Dhabi with kids over here.

Check out the best things to do in Abu Dhabi every month here

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

Everything you need to know about visiting Abu Dhabi in August

Take me back to July | Jump forward to September

Abu Dhabi experiences extremely hot and often humid weather throughout August. It can be unbearable for many, but it is also low season, so you can bag yourself a bargain on accommodation and soak up the rays in relative peace if you don’t mind the heat.

Further Reading: The best time of year to visit Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Weather in August

Abu Dhabi’s average daytime maximum temperature in August is 40.2°C (140.4°F), with highs as much as a sweltering 48°C (118.4°F) and average lows overnight down to 32.8°C (91°F).

By mid-August, you really start to feel the humidity too, which sticks around until October. The “feels like” temperature, which includes the wind chill factor, can be significantly higher in August. It is not advisable to be out in direct sunlight during the peak of the day.

Although most days bring clear blue skies, sandstorms and a dusty haze are common in Abu Dhabi in August.

In August, you should expect sea temperatures on average of 33.8°C (92.8°F). Maximum sea temperatures are expected at 35°C (94°F) through to a minimum of 32.6°c (91.6°F).

It feels like dipping into a spa in August; many prefer a hotel with a nice chilled pool at this time of year to negate the steamy ocean temperatures – not to mention how hot the sand gets! August is not a highly recommended beach month!

Make no mistake, no matter what time of year you visit Abu Dhabi, you will 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 August 2026

Suggested Abu Dhabi Activities in August 2026

Given the intense heat of August, stick to indoor activities or enjoy the coolest times of day: early morning and evening.

If you’re keen to soak up some rays, we recommend choosing a beach club that also offers the relief of a chilled swimming pool and a nearby bar. Some favourites include:

• Nation Riviera Beach Club at The St Regis
• Bayshore Beach Club at the InterContinental
• Saadiyat Beach Club
• West Bay Abu Dhabi at Radisson Blu
• Cafe Del Mar, Yas Bay

You can read about all our favourite Abu Dhabi beach clubs here.

In terms of indoor attractions in Abu Dhabi, the following places have their doors open throughout the summer:

• Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Qasr al Watan
• Observation 300 (Observation Deck and afternoon tea options at the Lobby Lounge)
• The National Aquarium
• Museum in Saadiyat’s Cultural District
• teamLab Phenomena interactive art

Everything you need to know about visiting Abu Dhabi in July

Take me back to June | Jump forward to August

Abu Dhabi experiences very long, hot summers. July is slightly drier than August, but it is still exceptionally hot and can be very muggy and dusty. Most events and activities are put on hold over the summer, as many expatriates return to their home countries during the hottest part of the year.

That said, life no longer grinds to a halt in the capital, and the bravest of sun seekers can still enjoy a summer stopover in July. Let’s take a look at the average weather in Abu Dhabi in July and events and activities you can still indulge in over the hottest summer months in the United Arab Emirates.

Abu Dhabi Average Weather in July

Abu Dhabi’s average daytime maximum temperature in July is 38.9°C (102°F), with highs as much as 47.9°C (118.2°F) and average overnight lows down to 32.3°C (90.1°F). You may also experience some days of high humidity in Abu Dhabi, though this doesn’t really kick in until August-September. The ‘feels like’ temperature will regularly reach 50°C in July.

In July, you should expect sea temperatures on average of 32.8°C (91°F). At the start of the month, sea temperatures average 30.8°C (89°F) through to a maximum of 34.9°C (93.1°F). If you’re coming for the beach weather in July, you’ll most definitely want to stay somewhere that chills their pool, and wear something to protect your feet!

Make no mistake, no matter what time of year you visit Abu Dhabi, you will 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

Live Music, Theatre & Comedy

• Kids will enjoy the Emirati Theatre production of ‘Kingdom of Ellyra’ at the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation on 10 July.
• Renowned Pakistani singer, composer, and actor, Atif Islam, will appear for one night only at the Etihad Arena on 18 July.

Live Sport

• The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) has been transformed into an indoor sports hub for AD Summer Sports – you can try a vast range of games and sports, from badminton and basketball to agility training and action cricket. Running from 6 June to 19 August 2026, 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM daily.
• UFC Fight Night returns to Etihad Arena on 25 July with fights between Magomed Ankalaev and Khalil Rountree, and Umar Nurmagomedov and David Martinez.
• Expect FIFA World Cup action to be on the screens of many Sports Bars across the city this month.

Check out the best things to do in Abu Dhabi every month here

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

The Belgian Beer Cafe

We have to start here as somehow they have achieved the unimaginable – 24-hour licensing throughout the World Cup! If this lively bar and restaurant wasn’t on your radar before, you’ll want to give it a try during this special occasion – your 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. game solution!

There’s indoor and outdoor seating and plenty of big screens, so you won’t miss out on any of the action.

• The Belgian Cafe, InterContinental, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi +971 50 723 5441
• Learn more and check their schedule here

Coca-Cola Fan Zone @ McGettigans

A fresh new venue for 2026, and the biggest! This massive 45,000 square foot venue is made for events like this and will also screen all 104 matches. The catch: there is a cover charge here of AED 60, unlike any other venue, but it’s fully redeemable on food and beverages.

• Coca-Cola Fanzone, McGettigansReem Mall, Abu Dhabi –
• See match information advertised on Instagram @mcgettigansabudhabi

McCaffertys

One of our favourite pubs in Abu Dhabi, period. Whether it’s the live music between matches or the ripping atmosphere and pork menu, McCaffs is a bit of an institution, and has value prices to boot!

• McCafferty’s Irish Pub, Hilton Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
• See match schedule advertised on Instagram @mccaffertysyas

Crafty Fox

One of the newer kids on the block, found a little hidden away at Yas Links; enjoy the views, the top-quality drinks and award-winning feeds at this small but mighty sports pub. Great for small pub atmosphere – book in your group!

• Crafty Fox, Yas Links, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi +971 404 3077
• Learn more about match scheduling on Instagram @craftyfox.yaslinks

Lock, Stock and Barrel

With licensing until 3 am, this is another top choice for those 11 pm matches. There will be live music between the matches, shown on big screens both indoors and on the outdoor terrace. Live music will keep the party atmosphere buzzing between matches at the weekend.

Some games will fall within happy hour, when you can expect 50% off selected drinks. More special World Cup deals are expected, so look at Lock, Stock and Barrel’s website before you visit their ideally located venue amongst the action of Yas Bay Waterfront.

• Lock, Stock and Barrel, Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi +971 4 423 8308
• To find out more, click here.

Stars N Bars

One of the original Abu Dhabi sports bars with burgers, wings and all your favourite American comfort foods on offer, well worth considering

Licensed to 2/3 AM depending on the day of the week, this is one of your better hopes for catching late-night action.

• Stars N Bars Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi +971 50 905 7962
• Follow on Instagram for match announcements

Other Abu Dhabi Sporting Venues to Try

The list above is certainly not exhaustive, but it includes some of our best picks with extended open hours. There will of course be many venues catering to specific fan groups, too numerous for us to list here.

Here are some more venues you could enquire with (though on deeper digging, we beleive they may not all have the TV rights – we’re working on more information!):

• Appaloosa Sports Bar, Marriott AL Forsan
• Bridges Bar, Fairmont
• Coopers, Park Rotana
• Craft by Side Hustle, Galleria
• Hamiltons Gastropub, Saadiyat Rotana
• Murphy’s Sports Bar, Al Ghazal Golf Club
• Nalu, Surf Abu Dhabi
• Offside Gastropub, Jumeirah Hotel & Resort
• Stills, Crowne Plaza
• The Keg Room, Al Zeina
• The Snooty Fox, Dusit Thani
• The Village at Le Meridien
• Victors, Millennium Hotel Al Rawdah

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Travel Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Travel Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links.

Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

Suggested Abu Dhabi Activities in June 2026

Besides the beautiful beach weather, June is the perfect month to explore Abu Dhabi’s top indoor attractions.

• The Louvre Abu Dhabi is vastly indoors (and even a little chilly inside!), so it makes a great June activity. Whilst in the Saadiyat Cultural District, you may also be interested in touring Abrahamic House (free), or experiencing TeamLab Phenomena (you can now combine your entry ticket for Louvre and TeamLab)

• Tour inside the city’s incredible Qasr al Watan, the Presidential Palace, before making your way to afternoon tea at either Emirates Palace or Observation 300 at Conrad Hotel, Etihad Towers.

• Enjoy indoor thrills and spills aplenty on Yas Island. Thrill-seekers will love taking on the world’s fastest roller coaster in the world at Ferrari World or try your hand at indoor SkyDiving next door at CLYMB Abu Dhabi.

• New to the theme park scene on Yas Island, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – housing the world’s largest aquarium and an epic Antarctica realm kept at a chilly 1°C (34°F), makes for a unique addition to Abu Dhabi’s indoor lineup.

• The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open throughout the year and can still be visited in summer, but be prepared as a lot of your tour is outside, only partially shaded.

• Enjoy an indulgent spa treatment at one of Abu Dhabi’s unique luxurious spas.

• In the evening, visit Yas Bay. Indoor dining is available, but if it’s not too sticky and humid, restaurants are keeping their al fresco dining areas open after dark.

Day Trips From Abu Dhabi in June 2026

This is a great time of year for exploring some of Dubai’s indoor attractions on a day trip from the capital.

If you only have one day, you may not have time to queue for the Burj Khalifa, but the Dubai Frame makes an excellent alternative Dubai viewing spot. We’d also suggest, on a Dubai itinerary this summer, enjoying the best of indoor attractions:

• Enjoy a tropical treat indoors at The Green Planet.
• Tour the tunnels beneath the world’s largest suspended water tank at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.
• Visit the beautiful Museum of the Future (advance booking tickets for this attraction is still a must).

You can find a detailed guide to Dubai’s best indoor attractions here.

Abu Dhabi With Kids in June 2026

This is the perfect time of year to take on the Yas Island theme parks.

You can start your day at Yas Waterworld, then continue to cool off indoors at neighbouring Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. Finish your evening over at Ferrari World and Yas Mall, where there are plenty of family dining options.

While it’s not impossible to be outside in June, bear in mind that surfaces can be scorching, even into the evening. Take care before venturing near playground equipment, and keep beach shoes on your little one’s feet, sunscreen, and hats.

• A great fun option you can try in the hotter summer months is Yas Waterworld summer nights, held every Saturday night over the summer (end of June to early September) until 10:00 PM.

• A nice place to cool off at the end of the day is the city’s famous Umm al Emarat Park. The park stays open until late in the evening (entry is 10 AED per person), and kids can cool off in the splash park and wadis.

• Another popular new evening spot for families is Al Mamsha on Al Hudayriat Island. Here, you’ll find a skate park, splash park, heritage trail, and a great range of al fresco dining options.

Our best recommendation when travelling with kids to Abu Dhabi in summer is to stay at one of the city’s best beachfront hotels so kids can enjoy a splash as part of your stay; top recommendations include:

• The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort – or frankly, any of the Saadiyat Island resorts are simply superb.
• Emirates Palace is an indulgent luxury, but those slides and pool—wow!
• On a smaller budget, try Beach Rotana or off-island; any of the Yas hotels, such as the new Hilton Abu Dhabi on Yas Island with theme park tickets included, are a winner for summer vacays in Abu Dhabi – you can also check out the current ‘Kids Go Free‘ promotion for Yas Island, which runs from 1 June to 30 September.

Find a detailed guide here to the best UAE resorts offering that little something extra for families!

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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Abu Dhabi Special Events in May 2026

As the temperatures start to rise, many venues will try to squeeze out the last of the cooler weather for al Fresco events before the real heat of summer hits. Expect most activities to move indoors over the month.

We are currently updating this page. Note that some events may be rescheduled at short notice owing to the current geopolitical situation.

Cultural Events

• Eid Al-Adha is set to fall between May 26th & May 29th 2026, although these dates may change subject to the sighting of the moon. This important festival is sure to bring plenty of opportunities to celebrate across the emirate, with fireworks and special family events dotted throughout the city.
• May 16th sees the season finale of Furusiyya, a celebration of Emirati horsemanship on Jubail Island.

Live Music, Theatre and Comedy

• Classical musician Hauser will put on a stunning stage show to reignite the city on 2 May 2026 – Etihad Arena
• Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats will bring the stage back to life at Abu Dhabi Arena from 14 to 24 May 2026 – Postponed to 4-13 June 2027.
• Renowned arab singer Kadim Al Sahir will charm audiences with his timeless songs at the Space 42 Arena on Thursday, 28th May 2026.
• For an evening of nostalgic performances, join Georges Wassouf and Zia’s Bourji at the Space 42 Arena on May 30th.

Suggested Abu Dhabi Activities in May 2026

As the weather is really getting hot during May, it’s time to seek out indoor activities during the day, then finish your outdoor activities in the evenings when the temperature drops (a little!) Why not try:

• A morning spent exploring the Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi or any of the 3 spectacular museums in the Saadiyat Cultural District

• An afternoon spent at the Presidential Palace Qasr al Watan followed by sundowners from Observation 300 in Etihad Towers, or Rays Bar, part of Conrad Hotel Abu Dhabi

• An evening spent strolling the sidewalks of Al Qana, enjoying the varied international dining scene and pop-up stalls

• Alternatively, get an early start and go kayaking in the mangroves at Jubail Mangrove Park, Jubail Island, or explore the Eastern Mangrove by Kayak

• Adrenaline seekers will love the indoor theme park, Ferrari World, on Yas Island, a perfect escape from the heat with plenty of thrills and spills. Alternatively, try the new SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

• Sun worshippers who’ve come for the hotter weather in the UAE will love a luxury beach club day (if you’re not already staying at one of the city’s incredible beach hotels)

An Abu Dhabi Desert Safari in May? Some operators will continue to operate evening tours into the desert well into the early summer. Whilst yes, it’s doable, it is still hot! With kids or elderly members of your group, we would recommend against it over the summer months. However, if you have a very high heat tolerance, go for it! It will be much quieter to take a desert safari in May than in the peak winter months.

Day Trips from Abu Dhabi in May 2026

Why not consider:

• Visiting the cultural highlights of Al Ain on a day trip – see Al Ain Palace Museum, the oases of Al Ain, and Qasr al Muwaiji.

• A day trip to neighbouring Dubai – catch the Museum of the Future, step back in time at the fully refurbished Al Shindagha District or head out on the water with a Dubai Marina tour.

Abu Dhabi with Kids in May 2026

In a city built to cope with the heat, there’s plenty of fun still to be had indoors and out in May – just bear in mind the midday heat, so time your activities carefully. Some May favourites in Abu Dhabi include:

• Yas Waterworld – the region’s award-winning water park on Yas Island has grwon event bigger! The weather in May is perfect, as you’ll get a refreshing treat in the water, but not too hot for sitting poolside. They cater well to all age groups, from babies to adults – see current Yas Stay & Play package deals.
• Warner Bros World – the entirely indoor theme park is the biggest indoor theme park in the world! Boasting 29 rides and attractions focused around Looney Toons classics and DC Comics favourites, it’s the perfect way to spend a day out of the heat.
• CLYMB Abu Dhabi – Based adjacent to Yas Mall and Ferrari World, here you’ll find the world’s largest indoor flight chamber and dozens of bouldering and rock climbing walls to go and burn some energy!

Still seeking out some more indoor ideas with kids? Check out this guide for the best of Abu Dhabi indoors.

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