Top 10 Festivals & Events In Abu Dhabi You Can’t Miss In 2025
UAE’s capital city, Abu Dhabi, is also the best place for your tryst with the culture of the Gulf region through its UNESCO World Heritage sites, excellent museums (including its very own Louvre!) and exhibitions. With a lovely waterfront location, the city dazzles with its grand mosques, swanky buildings, luxury resorts and fantastic theme parks. Being a cultural melting pot and action hotspot, Abu Dhabi festivals allow a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage and spirit of adventure. Something exciting is always happening in this vibrant city, so let’s check out some of the best festivals in Abu Dhabi that showcase its rich diversity.
List Of Best Abu Dhabi Festivals
Abu Dhabi has experienced galore, and there’s no doubt about it. Even the festivals in the city have something awe-striking in store for you, which is why you ought to attend these 10 events on your next trip to UAE.
1. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Undoubtedly one of the most thrilling Abu Dhabi events, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will hold its 10th instalment this year at the superb Yas Marina Circuit. The inaugural race in 2009 was the first-ever day-night race, making it even more exciting. Along with cheering for the F1 drivers, you can feel the adrenaline rush by booking a racing car driving experience here. Don the racing overalls and zoom off in a slick car along the 2.4 km South Circuit for this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
When: Sunday, December 7, 2025
Where: Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island
Ticket Prices: Starting from INR 26,000
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2. Mother of the Nation Festival
This 10-day-long celebration in honour of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak (wife of the late Sheikh Zayad) for her benevolent work and efforts towards empowering women is the perfect place to soak in the UAE culture. From fantastic live music to exciting food stalls, games for children and interesting performances, one of the most exciting Abu Dhabi festivals has it all. Divided into themed zones, the outdoor festival also has thoughtful pavilions about women in UAE and environmental awareness. Do not miss the dazzling fireworks display during the closing ceremony.
When: December
Where: A’l Bahar, Corniche, Abu Dhabi
3. Abu Dhabi Food Festival
Foodies can witness local & international celebrity chefs in action at this fantastic festival celebrating Emirati delicacies. Supported by all major hotels, restaurants and malls, the festival is spread over two weeks and three weekends. One of the most popular Abu Dhabi festivals for food connoisseurs, it gives visitors a chance to sample some delectable traditional and international food. Based on similar lines, the Love Food Festival at Al Ain presents myriad street food trucks, cookery demonstrations and workshops along with live music.
When: TBA
Where: Held emirate-wide
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4. Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
Named after the founding father of UAE, this popular Abu Dhabi heritage festival showcases the rich cultural diversity and traditions of the emirates. The bustling festival holds various interactive exhibitions, cultural pavilions, traditional cafes offering local and international cuisines as well as hundreds of interesting shops selling handicrafts and other items. Thousands of locals and tourists flock to Al Wathba, about 50 kilometres from the city to participate in the festivities.
When: TBA
Where: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
5. Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
One of the two major Abu Dhabi festivals bibliophiles and book publishers look forward to, this book fair spread over a week is one of the well-organized ones in the entire Middle East and North Africa. Literature and culture enthusiasts can witness the daily book signings, various author interaction sessions, poetry readings, traditional music performances and engaging activities for children. Come September, another noteworthy Abu Dhabi literature festival, the Al Ain Book Fair, is just as wonderful.
When: May
Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
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6. Abu Dhabi Festival
Abu Dhabi Festival was the 15th instalment of this fantastic cultural event, showcasing various facets of Arabic culture through myriad events and performances. Organized annually by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, this is the most significant cultural celebration in the entire region. Spread across various venues in the city, you can catch international opera performances, theatre & dance extravaganzas, instrumental concerts and so much more every year at this fantastic festival. You should book the Abu Dhabi Festival tickets online well in advance.
When: March
Where: Held across 25 venues in Abu Dhabi
7. Al Dhafra Festival
A 90-minute drive from the city, you will be greeted with an endless sea of ochre-coloured sand in the Al Dhafra Region desert. This is one of those unique festivals in Abu Dhabi that allow you to glimpse the Bedouin way of life and mingle with the desert tribes. Some 1500 camel owners from across the Gulf countries participate in the festival with their best stock, while women sell traditional handicrafts from the region. The highlights of the festival are the camel beauty & falconry contests. Free coaches are available from the city to the venue.
When: 11th to 30th January 2025
Where: Madinat Zayed, Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi
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8. Ramadan & Eid
The month of Ramadan remains remarkable in the entire region for its spiritual and religious significance. It is enjoyable to experience the evening buzz when the locals open their fast, and the markets come alive. One of the liveliest Abu Dhabi festivals, Eid Al Fitr, is celebrated with great fanfare over three days. The Yas Marina & Abu Dhabi Corniche has special fireworks and lighting. Along with the traditional celebrations with the family, it is also an excellent time to shop to your heart’s content, as all major malls offer special discounts.
When: 28 Feb, 2025 – Sat, 29 Mar, 2025
Where: Abu Dhabi
9. Abu Dhabi Golf Festival
One of the two major Abu Dhabi festivals & events eagerly awaited by golfing enthusiasts and professionals, the Abu Dhabi Golf Festival is a fabulous opportunity to play in some of the most luxurious golf courses in this region. Establishing Abu Dhabi as a world-class golfing destination, the manicured greens of the 27-hope Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Yas Links Golf Club and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club welcome you to tee off the new golfing season and enjoy the ample sunshine in winter.
When: January, 2025
Where: Across three premier golf courses
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10. Abu Dhabi Art
This annual culmination of various events that take place throughout the year to bring art closer to the people using exhibitions, talks and installations. Abu Dhabi Art transcends the boundaries of a traditional art fair. He takes it to another level through its interesting and engaging format, placing it amidst various sought-after Abu Dhabi festivals. The 4-day event every year witnesses more than 20,000 visitors who admire and buy multiple artworks and installations by talented artists, with around 40 participating art galleries.
When: November
Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Cultural District
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Vibrant and beautiful, UAE’s largest city has festivals and events all year round to ensure you can witness its cultural diversity and rich heritage. Along with those listed above, there’s also the Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival and Abu Dhabi Music Festival to draw you into the city’s cultural scene. So, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to UAE immediately and head to Abu Dhabi for a few days to indulge in its top celebrations!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Abu Dhabi Festival
What are the most popular festivals in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi's event calendar is brimming with exciting events and festivals that cater to everyone’s interests! Don’t miss out on the fantastic Sheikh Zayed Festival, the joyful celebrations for Eid al Fitr, and the vibrant Liwa Festival—these are must-see experiences to add to your list!
When is the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix held?
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is held in December of every year. This year it is scheduled to held on December 7th.
What is the Mother of the Nation Festival in Abu Dhabi?
The Mother of the Nation Festival honours the inspirational values of HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. It features diverse activity zones, creating an entertaining, interactive atmosphere for families and individuals alike.
What are the best cultural festivals in Abu Dhabi?
Some of the best cultural festivals in Abu Dhabi are: 1. Abu Dhabi Festival 2. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 3. Dubai Food Festival 4. Al Dhafra Festival, etc.
What are the top events to attend during Ramadan in Abu Dhabi?
Here are some of the top events to attend during Ramadan: 1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 2. Hai Ramadan 3. Iftar 4. Ramadan Nights, etc.
Is the Abu Dhabi Art Festival worth attending?
Yes, the Abu Dhabi Art Festival is worth attending. The Arts and Flowers Festival in Abu Dhabi is creating a buzz at Al Wathba! It's a delightful mix of culture, creativity, and beautiful blooms, making it the perfect outing to enjoy with your loved ones.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
