Biggest annual Abu Dhabi events and festivals in 2026
The UAE capital hosts numerous annual events and festivals that attract millions of visitors from around the globe. These events always have huge followings and tickets can sell out instantly. Often, tourists plan their vacations at specific times of the year to ensure they can attend some of these spectacular events. Want to check out some of the best annual events in Abu Dhabi? Here you go!
SPORTS EVENTS
Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 is confirmed for Thursday, December 4th, to Saturday, December 6th. Expect headline concerts, stylish parties and electrifying race action across the weekend.
- Ticket price: Please visit the official Abu Dhabi GP website for more details and pre-registration
- Date: 4th to 6th December 2026
- Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island
- Contact: 800-927
Challenge Sir Bani Yas
Challenge Sir Bani Yas returns in January and it is every bit as spectacular. Set across desert dunes and clear waters, the course winds through a wildlife reserve filled with free-roaming animals.
As the UAE’s only long-distance triathlon, it also offers middle and Olympic races for all abilities. For runners, cyclists and swimmers, this is a true bucket-list adventure.
- Entry fees: Starting from $100
- Date: 31st Janaury and 1st Feburary 2026
- Location: Sir Bani Yas Island
- Contact: +971-2-406-3839
TriYas
Next on our list of yearly events in Abu Dhabi is the 16th edition of the TriYAS Challenge. This ultimate triathlon experience invites first-timers and seasoned athletes to participate in exciting sports activities, including roller skating, swimming, biking and running.
- Ticket price: Please visit the official page for registration and payment
- Date: 14th February 2026
- Location: Yas Marina Circuit
- Contact: +971-2-444-8141
Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open
A sunny February afternoon at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi is hard to beat. The 2026 line-up includes Ons Jabeur, Elena Rybakina and Paula Badosa, promising eight days of thrilling tennis. With a lively fan village, it is a highlight of the Abu Dhabi yearly events calendar. You will leave inspired, energised and tempted to pick up a racket yourself.
- Ticket price: From AED 25
- Date: 31st January to 7th Feburary 2026
- Location: International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City
NBA Abu Dhabi Games
After last year’s electric week of basketball, the NBA is set to light up Abu Dhabi again in 2026. Expect high-energy games, interactive fan experiences and star player appearances throughout the event.
Dates are still under wraps, but ticket and VIP waitlists are already open online. Sign up early, because this is never one to leave until the last minute.
- Date and timings: TBA
ART AND EXHIBITIONS
Abu Dhabi Festival 2026
Under the theme “The Wisdom of Culture”, the 2026 season celebrates the United States as Country of Honour. The programme brings together music, performances and rich global influences.
From ballet and opera to jazz and orchestral showcases, every event honours artistic brilliance. As one of the popular events in Abu Dhabi, the festival promises a season shaped by creativity, emotion and cultural depth.
- Ticket price: Varies
- Date and timings: 12th April to 16th May 2026
- Location: Emirates Palace Auditorium | The Red Theater, The Arts Centre at NYU Abu Dhabi
Picasso, the Figure, Louvre Abu Dhabi
An exhibition dedicated to Picasso is always unmissable, even for casual art enthusiasts. With key loans from Musée National Picasso-Paris, it traces his evolving vision of the human form. Featuring iconic works across five months, it stands out in the Abu Dhabi art exhibitions annual calendar.
- Date: 21st January to 31st May 2026
- Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Book Fair 2026
Great news for bibliophiles: the Abu Dhabi Book Fair is back for its 35th edition. One of the most popular annual events in Abu Dhabi, the bookfair features an array of local and international books, illustrations, professional workshops, seminars and panel discussions.
- Date: 11th to 20th April 2026
- Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
CONCERTS IN ABU DHABI
Bryan Adams
A true music icon, Bryan Adams brings 45 years of chart-topping hits to Saadiyat Nights. Expect classics like Summer of ’69 and (Everything I Do) I Do It for You. The atmosphere will be loud, joyful and unapologetically nostalgic. You will almost certainly lose your voice by the end.
- Ticket Prices: Starting from AED 295
- Date: 11th February 2026
- Location: Saadiyat Island
John Mayer
John Mayer makes his Abu Dhabi debut with an intimate Saadiyat Nights performance. His blend of pop, rock and blues always feels effortless. Songs like Gravity and Slow Dancing in a Burning Room will hit especially hard live. The performance promises to be smooth, soulful and unforgettable.
- Ticket Prices: Starting from AED 295
- Date: 24th January 2026
- Location: Saadiyat Island
Linkin Park: From Zero World Tour
Linkin Park returns with a mix of iconic anthems and new material. The band’s energy remains fierce and deeply nostalgic. Tracks like In the End and Numb will ignite the arena.
- Ticket Prices: Starting from AED 295
- Date: 26th January 2026
- Location: Etihad Arena
Mary Poppins The Musical
This beloved production lands in Abu Dhabi with colour and charm. Expect dazzling costumes, joyful choreography and timeless songs. The optional tea party adds a lovely pre-show touch. It is pure theatre magic for all ages.
- Ticket Prices: Starting from AED 120
- Date: 25th March to 15th April 2026
- Location: Etihad Arena
OFFLIMITS Music Festival
OFFLIMITS returns with its bold, open-format identity. The line-up promises genre-hopping performances and fresh discoveries. Set in Etihad Park, it delivers true outdoor festival energy. It is one for music lovers who enjoy variety.
- Ticket Prices: TBC
- Date: TBC
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out!
Peppa Pig brings songs, laughter and interactive moments for little fans. Multiple showtimes make planning easy for families. The atmosphere is cheerful and relaxed. Children will leave smiling and singing.
- Ticket Prices: Starting from AED 99
- Date: 31st January and 1st February 2026
- Location: Etihad Arena
Ricky Martin
Ricky Martin brings unstoppable Latin pop energy to Saadiyat Nights. Expect classics like Livin’ La Vida Loca and She Bangs. The crowd will be dancing from start to finish. It is pure fun with a retro twist.
- Ticket Prices: Starting from AED 295
- Date: 31st January 2026
- Location: Saadiyat Island
Sunburn Festival
Sunburn makes its Middle East debut in Abu Dhabi next December. Known for world-class EDM headliners, expectations are sky high. The setting promises huge beats and electric crowds. This will be one of 2026’s biggest party weekends.
- Date: December 2026
OTHER ABU DHABI EVENTS
UAE National Orchestra
2026 marks the debut season of the UAE National Orchestra. The programme explores the meeting point between East and West, tradition and innovation. It opens on January 15th with “The Beginning” at Emirates Palace, setting a bold cultural tone.
Spring then brings a Vivaldi showcase on February 7, followed by Russian Classics on February 14th. Each concert promises a refined and memorable experience.
- Ticket price: From AED 35
- Date: From 15th January 2026
- Location: Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Ain and Al Dhafra
AL HOSN FESTIVAL
Al Hosn Festival 2026 celebrates the rich heritage and culture of Abu Dhabi. Held at the historical Qasar Al Hosn, this festival offers traditional music, dance performances, camel races and authentic Emirati cuisine. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and history.
- Ticket price: From AED 35
- Date: 17th January to 1st February 2026
- Location: Qasr Al Hosn
SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL
Another yearly event in Abu Dhabi is the Sheikh Zayed Festival. This event aims to preserve Emirati heritage and features a range of activities for both children and adults.
- Ticket price: From AED 10
- Date and timings: Until 22nd March 2026
- Location: Al Wathba
- Contact: +971-800-555
FAQS ABOUT ABU DHABI EVENTS
DO ANY INDOOR VENUES HOST WEEKLY ABU DHABI EVENTS?
The Etihad Arena on Yas Island is a wonderful multi-purpose indoor venue that hosts corporate functions, sporting competitions and cultural performances. The official website has more information about the calendar and ticket details.
WHAT ARE THE TOP ANNUAL EVENTS IN DUBAI?
If you plan to visit Abu Dhabi’s neighbouring emirate, some of the annual events in Dubai you wouldn’t want to miss are Dubai Shopping Festival, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and Dubai Jazz Festival.
That wraps up our guide to annual events in Abu Dhabi. We hope you enjoy this year and make the most of these events.
Looking for something specific? Our guide to monthly events in Abu Dhabi will point you in the right direction. And if you happen to be in Dubai, here’s a roundup of all the upcoming events at the Coca Cola Arena worth looking forward to.
