This week in Abu Dhabi offers an exciting array of activities that promise fresh experiences, from cultural immersions to exhilarating sports. As we continue to embrace the vibrant UAE summer, now is the perfect time to make the most of late sunsets and fill your after-work calendar. With the summer holidays nearing their end, parents will also find a wealth of activities to keep children entertained in the capital. Here’s a selection of engaging pursuits to consider for the week.
Immerse Yourself in Culture at Emirates Palace
Reconnect with Emirati culture and heritage at the limited-time pop-up event at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. In collaboration with Ethr, The Silk Fold delivers a unique experience blending Emirati craftsmanship, coffee culture, and design-led storytelling. Visitors can enjoy a curated afternoon tea, innovative coffee creations, and desserts inspired by regional flavours, all within a beautifully designed environment influenced by traditional textiles and craftsmanship. Experience Arabic coffee tastings, live performances, and community talks throughout the season, with entry available on a first-come, first-served basis.
When: Monday to Thursday; 4:00pm to 11:00pm
Where: The Grand Dome, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Contact: @mo_emiratespalace
Dive into Neon Padel at Space42 Arena
Take your padel game to the next level with a neon court experience at Space42 Arena. This vibrant venue offers a pop of colour, complete with glowing gear, upbeat music, and an energetic atmosphere. Enjoy daily morning and evening sessions, a dedicated Ladies Glow Night every Thursday, and tailored packages for birthdays, corporate events, and private celebrations.
When: Daily, 8am to 10pm | Ladies Glow Night from 4pm
Where: Space42 Arena
Price: From Dhs245 per court
Contact: @space42arena
Experience Museum Hopping with Discounts
This week, indulge in a museum-hopping spree with discounted entries at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and Zayed National Museum. UAE residents can enjoy a 30% discount until September 30, with admission priced at Dhs49 per museum. Children under 18 and seniors aged 60 and above can enter for free, making it an ideal opportunity for family outings.
When: Daily; Louvre Abu Dhabi – 10am to 6:30pm; Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi – 10am to 6:30pm; Zayed National Museum – 10am to 8pm
Where: Saadiyat Cultural District
Price: Dhs49 per museum until September 30
Contact: @louvreabudhabi, @nhm_abudhabi, @znmuae
Board Game Adventure for Kids
Before visiting the Louvre, drop the kids off at the Children’s Museum for a board game extravaganza. They can explore the history and mechanics of board games through hands-on play, including traditional Emirati games. Children aged 5–14 can also design and build their own board games, and best of all, this experience is completely free!
When: Daily; Louvre Abu Dhabi – 10am to 6:30pm
Where: Children’s Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi
Price: Free entry for children; accompanying adults can access the Dhs49 summer offer until September 30
Contact: @louvreabudhabi
Relax with a Mid-Week Massage
Unwind from your workday with a rejuvenating massage at The EDITION Spa. Experience the seasonal ‘Escape the Heat: Summer Deep Tissue Massage’ to recharge your energy. If time allows, consider adding a day pass to enjoy access to the hotel’s outdoor pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness centre, with the full value redeemable on food and beverages.
When: Daily 9:00am to 7:00pm
Where: The EDITION Spa
Price: Day pass – Dhs150; Escape the Heat: Summer Deep Tissue Massage – Dhs450
Contact: 02 208 0000
Free Woodworking Workshops at Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is now accepting registrations for its Contemporary Makers Cohort 3, offering free hands-on woodworking workshops for aspiring creatives aged 18 to 25. The programme begins with a Woodworking Fundamentals workshop on September 9, followed by weekly sessions every Thursday until November. Participants will learn woodworking techniques, develop a project, and receive mentorship from artists and cultural professionals, culminating in a public showcase of their work.
When: Registration closes on August 16
Where: MAKE, Abu Dhabi
Price: Free
Contact: @makeabudhabi
City-Wide Summer Camp for Children
To make the most of the last weeks of summer vacations, Abu Dhabi Culture is hosting a city-wide summer camp for children aged 5–14. This flexible programme allows for day bookings as well as one-week and two-week options. Children can engage with Abu Dhabi’s living heritage at three iconic cultural sites: Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans, and Al Maqta’a Museum, where they will learn traditional crafts, storytelling, and more.
When: August 10 – August 13; August 17 – August 20; 10am to 2pm
Where: Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans, or Al Maqta’a Museum
Price: Dhs150 – One-day camp; Dhs500 – One-week camp; Dhs900 – Two-week camp
Contact: @abudhabiculture
With such a variety of activities available, this week in Abu Dhabi promises something for everyone, whether you’re looking to unwind, learn, or enjoy family time before the school year starts.