Best events happening in Abu Dhabi in December 2025
- Eid Al Etihad
- Christmas Festivities
- New Year Celebration
- Music and Concerts
- Art and Culture Events
- Sports
- Other Events
- FAQs
December in the capital is shaping up to be vibrant, with a calendar filled with Abu Dhabi events to suit every taste. From world-class concerts, Eid Al Etihad festivities and Christmas celebrations to cultural showcases, the city promises energy and excitement at every turn. Here’s a look at the standout highlights from Abu Dhabi’s December 2025 event calendar you wouldn’t want to miss!
54th Eid Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi is set to celebrate the 54th National Day with exuberance and enthusiasm. From fireworks and events to delicious buffets and brunches, here’s a list of things to do on National Day in Abu Dhabi:
- UAE-inspired tours at Louvre Abu Dhabi – 28th November to 1st December
- Celebrations at Yas Bay Waterfront – 1st and 2nd December
- Eid Al Etihad at Manarat Al Sadiyat – 1st to 3rd December
- 54th Eid Al Etihad at Heritage Village – 1st December
- National Day Celebrations at Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa – 1st and 2nd December
- Celebrations at Souq Al Qattara, Al Ain – 1st and 2nd December
- Celebrations at Al Ain Museum – 2nd December
- Al Razfa at Al Maqta’a Museum – 2nd December
- Eid Al Etihad at Abu Dhabi Children’s Library – Until 2nd December
- Eid Al Etihad Activation at teamLab Phenomena – 2nd and 3rd December
- Eid Al Etohad at Al Hosn – 2nd to 8th December
- Opening of Zayed National Museum – 3rd December
- Workshop at Bassam Freiha Art Foundation – 3 December
- Concert at Cultural Foundation – 5th December
Christmas Celebrations 2025
Here’s all you need to know about Christmas in Abu Dhabi:
Yas Winter Fest 2025
Yas Island will host Yas Winter Fest from December 12th to 21st, adding extra sparkle to Abu Dhabi festivals in December 2025. The event brings a lively mix of winter fun, from snow-themed zones to carnival rides and a charming artisan market. Visitors can explore glowing installations, playful décor and plenty of festive treats. It all comes together to create a bright winter escape in the heart of Yas Island.
- Ticket prices: Starting from AED 25
- Date: 12th to 21st December 2025
- Location: Gateway Park North, Yas Island
The Laughter Factory’s Christmas Parties
The Laughter Factory puts on festive comedy nights around Christmas at venues like The Club. It brings together international and local stand-up comics for a night of laughs, drinks and good vibes. Expect a lively crowd, sharp comedy and a relaxed night out rather than a typical Christmas party.
- Ticket prices: Starting from AED 160
- Date: 6th December 2025
- Location: The Club, Abu Dhabi
Christmas Lightning in Abu Dhabi
What’s a Christmas without lighting a tree? If you happen to be in Abu Dhabi this December, don’t miss out on these tree lighting events!
- Emirates Palace | 5th December from 06:00 pm to 08:00 pm
- Fairmont Bab Al Bahr | 8th December from 08:00 pm
- Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island | 12th December from 06:00 pm
- Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi | 4th December from 05:00 pm
- Saadiyat Beach Golf Club | 14th December from 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm
- Yas Links Golf Club | 12th December from 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm
- Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi | 5th December from 06:00 pm to 07:30 pm
Brunches and Offers on Foods and Drinks This Festive Season
Besides tree lighting and special events marking the beginning of the festive season, hotels and restaurants across Abu Dhabi have introduced deals for Christmas brunches and dinner.
Here are some of the top deals to look forward to:
- Christmas Eve Dinner at Hilton Abu Dhabi on Yas Island | 24th December from 06:30 pm to 10:30 pm | Prices starting from AED 125
- Christmas Eve Dinner at Urban Kitchen (Dusit Thani) | 24th December from 07:00 pm to 10:30 pm | Prices starting from AED 110
- Christmas Eve Dinner at Novotel Gate Abu Dhabi | 25th December from 07:00 pm to 11:00 pm | Prices starting from AED 99
- Christmas Day Brunch at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on 25th December from 12:30 pm to 04:00 pm
- Broadway | Prices starting from AED 350
- Vendome | Prices starting from AED 380
- Cascades | Prices starting from AED 420
- Sand & Koal | Prices starting from AED 450
- Talea by Antonio Guida | Prices starting from AED 550
- Christmas Eve Dinner at Olea at St. Regis Saadiyat Island | 24th December from 07:00 pm to 11:00 pm | Prices starting from 350
New Year’s Eve
Here are a few ways the residents of Abu Dhabi can celebrate New Year’s Eve:
New Year Fireworks
Abu Dhabi is all set to welcome the year 2026 with grandeur. Major spots in the city will be performing a firework show to mark the new year. You can join the midnight celebrations at:
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
- Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba
Top Restaurants to Celebrate the New Year
Almost all the hotels across the city have introduced an offer to celebrate the new year, but here are the top 5 picks for you!
- Buddha-Bar Beach at St. Regis Saadiyat Island | 08:00 pm – 12:00 am | From AED 950
- Li Jiang at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal | 07:00 pm – 12:00 am | From AED 599 (soft drinks)
- Saadiyat Beach Golf Club | 09:00 pm – 02:00 am | From AED 390 (soft drinks) / AED 599 (house beverages)
- The Forge at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal | 07:00 pm – 12:00 am | From AED 699 (soft drinks) / AED 899 (house beverages)
- Yas Links Golf Club | 09:00 pm – 02:00 am | From AED 495 (soft drinks) / AED 825 (house beverages)
- W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island (W Lounge / Garage) | 10:00 pm – 02:00 am | From AED 290 (house-beverage package) / AED 550 (bubbly package)
NYE Masquerade Ball at Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Welcome the new year in style as the Masquerade Ball returns to Rosewood Abu Dhabi. The evening blends intrigue with refined charm, all set against stunning waterfront views and the glittering city skyline. Guests can enjoy a lively mix of performances, featuring The GIPSY’s band, DJ Keith Dobbs, smooth saxophone sets by Milan and vibrant percussion by Ghaith.
- Ticket price: Starting from AED 199
- Date: 31st December 2025
- Location: Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Alicia Keys NYE Show
The 17-time Grammy-winning artist Alicia Keys will headline Saadiyat Nights for New Year’s Eve 2025 on 31st December, delivering her signature blend of soulful piano ballads and powerful vocals under the stars on Saadiyat Island.
- Ticket price: Starting from AED 308.27
- Date: 31st December 2025
- Location: Saadiyat Island
John Legend
John Legend will bring his smooth vocals and soulful charm to Abu Dhabi this New Year’s Eve. The multi-award-winning artist is set to deliver a warm, elegant performance filled with fan favourites, creating a classy soundtrack to welcome 2026.
- Ticket price: Starting from AED 2,500
- Date: 31st December 2025
- Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental – Terrace (Open-Air Venue)
ABU DHABI EVENTS IN MUSIC AND CONCERTS
Looking for some top-tier Abu Dhabi concerts in December 2025? Etihad Arena is set to come alive this month with stunning shows!
Yasalam After-Race Concerts
The Yasalam After-Race Concerts 2025 will light up Etihad Park during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend from 4th to 7th December. The series brings a strong mix of global stars, with Benson Boone opening on Thursday, followed by Elyanna and Post Malone on Friday, Metallica on Saturday, and Katy Perry closing the weekend on Sunday. These shows add a lively festival feel to the race, offering ticket holders an exciting blend of motorsport and world-class entertainment.
- Date: 4th to 7th December 2025
- Location: Etihad Park
ROD STEWART
Catch Sir Rod Stewart live as he brings decades of iconic hits to Abu Dhabi. Expect a polished show from one of the world’s best-selling artists.
- Ticket prices: Starting from AED 195
- Date: 17th December 2025
- Location: Etihad Arena
Arjit Singh
Enjoy an evening with Arijit Singh as he returns to charm the crowd with his soulful vocals. His performance promises a warm blend of emotion and artistry.
- Ticket prices: Starting from AED 150
- Date: 19th December 2025
- Location: Etihad Arena
Hussain Al Jassmi & Kadim Al Sahir
Hussain Al Jassmi joins Kadim Al Sahir for a powerful night of Arabic music and poetic performances. It’s set to be a moving show from two regional legends.
- Ticket prices: Starting from AED 150
- Date: 27th December 2025
- Location: Etihad Arena
Keinemusik
The Kloud lands in Abu Dhabi as Keinemusik returns to the UAE with a high-energy takeover at Yas Gateway Park on 5th December. Straight from Berlin’s famed underground scene, the group will deliver a gripping set that blends deep rhythm with a dreamlike edge.
- Ticket prices: Starting from AED 595
- Date: 5th December 2025
- Location: Yas Gateway Park
Arts and Culture
Sheikh Zayed Festival
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026 opens in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi — running until 22nd March 2026.
Held under the theme Hayyakum (“Welcome”), the festival returns with a fresh identity, celebrating the UAE’s cultural depth, heritage and values of tolerance and coexistence. It remains a global platform that showcases the nation’s diversity and spirit of unity.
- Ticket prices: AED 10 per person
- Date: Until March 22nd 2026
- Location: Al Wathba
Art Here 2025
Louvre Abu Dhabi and Richard Mille present the fifth edition of Art Here and the Richard Mille Art Prize, one of the most anticipated art exhibitions in Abu Dhabi. Curated by Sophie Mayuko Arni, this year’s theme, Shadows, explores light, absence and identity, with works selected from over 400 regional and international proposals.
- Date: 11th October to 28th December 2025
- Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
And After…
Searching for free events in Abu Dhabi? And After… explores the element of air through Arabic terms such as Sukoon, Hawaa, Naseem and Riyah, reflecting on stillness, flow and transformation. Curated by Dirwaza Curatorial Lab, the exhibition features works by 15 artists, inviting visitors to pause and reconnect with nature’s subtle rhythms.
- Date: 9th October 2025 to 22nd February 2026
- Location: First floor, Cultural Foundation
Mamluks: Legacy of an Empire
This significant exhibition, developed with the Musée du Louvre, highlights the influential Mamluk dynasty of the Islamic world. Featuring over 250 exceptional works, it celebrates their artistic legacy and contributions to the Middle East.
For more than two and a half centuries, the Mamluks were not only formidable warriors but also skilled craftsmen and diplomats. Their reign marked a flourishing of art and intellect in the Islamic Golden Age. Explore a diverse array of works, including calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and ceramics, that showcase the Mamluks’ enduring influence on art, culture and diplomacy.
- Ticket prices: Starting from AED 45.50
- Date: 17th September 2025 to 25th January 2026
- Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Mother of The Nation Festival
This winter, MOTN is back, lighting up Al Ain, Al Dhafra, and Abu Dhabi with cosmic energy. Get ready for heart-racing rides, immersive experiences, international cuisines, live performances and endless shopping. Join the fun as the festival celebrates National Day, welcomes the New Year and unveils exciting surprises around every corner.
- Al Ain and Al Dhafrah: 28th November to 2nd December 2025
- Abu Dhabi: 10th December 2025 to 4th January 2026
SPORTS EVENTS
Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Gear up for one of the biggest Abu Dhabi sports events as the world’s fastest drivers race into the capital. The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 will bring fierce wheel-to-wheel action and tense season-ending battles from 5th to 7th December at Yas Marina Circuit. Expect tight team duels and dramatic fights for final championship positions. It promises a high-adrenaline finish to the racing calendar.
- Location: Yas Marina Circuit
- Dates: 5th to 7th December
UAE National Day Ride
Mark the UAE National Day with spirit and pedal power at the UAE National Day Ride, a standout cycling event that brings riders together across Al Ain. It’s designed for all levels, with four routes to choose from: a relaxed 5 km Fun Ride, a 10 km Community Ride and the more demanding 22 km and 44 km endurance options.
Everyone who takes part receives a special UAE National Day medal, t-shirt and kit. The top three men and women in each distance will also take home exclusive prizes, adding an extra boost of excitement to the occasion.
- Location: Al Ain
- Date: 7th December 2025
- Cost: AED 84
UAE National Day Run
The UAE National Day Run invites runners of all levels to enjoy a flat, scenic route that’s ideal for setting a new personal best or taking a relaxed jog through Abu Dhabi. You can pick from 2.5 km, 5 km or 10 km distances, with both fun and competitive categories available. It’s a welcoming event for beginners and a solid challenge for experienced athletes keen to race alongside the wider running community.
- Date: 6th December 2025
- Cost: AED 78.75
OTHER EVENTS
Manar Abu Dhabi 2025
Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 returns this winter under the theme The Light Compass, celebrating light as both a guide and a symbol. The festival will unfold in two phases: from November 1st, 2025, to January 4th, 2026, in Al Ain, and from November 15th, 2025, to January 4th, 2026, in Abu Dhabi.
This year’s edition will span locations such as Jubail Island, Souq Al Mina, and the Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oasis trails. Visitors can look forward to large-scale light sculptures, immersive installations, interactive displays, and captivating drone performances by Emirati and international artists, transforming the city’s landscapes into glowing works of art.
- Date: 15th November 2025 to 4th January 2026
- Location: Across Abu Dhabi
Liwa International Festival
Liwa International Festival returns this winter with a lively blend of action, culture and family activities in Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter. Set beside Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune, the event mixes motorsports with heritage showcases in a striking desert backdrop. Visitors can enjoy racing, drifting and dune challenges, along with live performances and traditional experiences.
Liwa Village adds extra fun with rides, a petting zoo, escape rooms and a bustling souk. Each evening ends with fireworks at 08:00 pm, and hot air balloon rides offer sweeping desert views. It’s a standout winter attraction for families, thrill seekers and culture enthusiasts.
- Date: 12th December 2025 to 3rd January 2026
- Location: Tal Moreeb, Liwa
FAQS ABOUT THE BIGGEST EVENTS IN ABU DHABI FOR 2025
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ABU DHABI?
The best things to do in Abu Dhabi include a grand tour of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi and watching a camel race at Al Wathba Race Track.
ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING CONCERTS IN DUBAI AND ABU DHABI?
Yes, plenty! Here’s a list of all the upcoming concerts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING EVENTS IN DUBAI?
Yes! You can enjoy several Dubai monthly events, from family entertainment to live shows. You can also enjoy these must-see live music concerts in Dubai.
And this brings us to the end of the Abu Dhabi event calendar for December 2025.
Looking for more options? Make the most of these annual events in Abu Dhabi, where you can have fun with the family.
Stay tuned to MyBayut for the best happenings in the UAE.
