Beach days, brunches, pool passes and movie nights, this is your easy, feel good guide of things to do in Abu Dhabi
Weekends in Abu Dhabi can go one of two ways. You stay in and scroll, or you make a plan that actually feels worth it. If you’re looking for things to do, this list leans firmly into the second option. From beach mornings and long lunches to easy evenings out, here are the plans that make your weekend feel well spent
Spend a day at Yas Bay East Beach
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The newest Yas Island beach offers 290 metres of open beachfront with space to actually breathe. You can show up for a slow morning by the water, or treat it like an outdoor gym. There’s a dedicated fitness zone, plus space for volleyball, badminton and even a quick game of table tennis if you’re feeling competitive. If your idea of a good day involves doing very little, that works too. Roll out a towel, order something cold, and stay put until sunset.
Location: Yas Bay East Beach, Yas Island
Time: 7am until sunset
Cost: Dhs100 on weekdays; Dhs150 on weekends (with 50% off for children aged 6–12, and free access for kids under six
Movie night in the park
Pack a blanket, bring the kids and settle in under the night sky at Sheikha Fatima Park. This three night outdoor cinema series turns a simple evening into something a little more special, with family favourites lighting up the big screen. Friday night is Finding Nemo, Saturday is How to Train Your Dragon and on Sunday you can enjoy Ratatouille.
Location: Sheikha Fatima Park
Time: 7:30pm to 9pm
Contact: (058) 155 3363 or (058) 570 8026
Brunch at 25 Minutes to Tulum
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This new Mexican brunch leans into bold flavours and easy, beachy energy. Think tacos filled to the brim, crisp chilaquiles, and churros worth saving room for. Add the Hudayriyat coastline and you have a Saturday that runs exactly as it should.
Location: 25 Minutes to Tulum, Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat
Time: Every Saturday, 11am to 2pm
Cost: Dhs99 per person
Dinner at Oak Room
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There is something reassuring about a proper steakhouse done well, and Oak Room gets it right. This three course set menu keeps things simple but considered, with a choice of starter, main and dessert, plus a drink to ease you into the evening.
Location: Oak Room, Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina
Time: 6pm to 11pm, Tuesday to Saturday
Cost: Dhs245 per person
Contact: (02) 208 0000
Pool day at W Abu Dhabi
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Some days call for plans. Others call for simpple things to do like a sunbed and a cold drink. WET Deck is made for the latter, with sleek loungers, cabanas and front-row views of Yas Marina Circuit. Pay for your pass, then eat and sip your way through it. Lazy never looked so good.
Location: WET Deck, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Time: 12pm to 8pm
Cost: Dhs150 day pass, fully redeemable on food and drinks
Contact: (02) 656 0000
Minuty Rosé Sundays at Flamingo Room by tashas
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Sundays here are all about slowing down and settling in. Expect free-flowing Minuty Rosé paired with a three-course menu of Flamingo Room favourites, from carpaccio and calamari to prawn sliders and burrata ravioli. Take your pick between the terrace or indoors and let the afternoon unfold at its own pace.
Location: Flamingo Room Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Time: 12pm to 4pm, Sundays
Cost: Dhs350 per person
Spanish nights at ARC
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An open-air evening at the Louvre that leans into Spanish flavour, colour and rhythm. Expect a curated menu inspired by Spain, paired with smooth jazz that carries you from golden hour into the night. It’s relaxed, a little romantic, and perfect for an easy evening out. The spanish menu will also include jazz music in collaboration with Dubai Audio.
Location: ARC, Louvre Abu Dhabi
Time: 5pm to 10pm
Contact: @arc_uae
Archery focus
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At Al Forsan International Sports Resort, archery lessons teach focus, posture and patience. You stand still, breathe and aim. There’s something powerful about hearing the arrow land on the target. Quietly impressive. Deeply satisfying.
Location: Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Khalifa City
Time: Daily from 9am, booking recommended
Cost: From around Dhs100 per session
Contact: (02) 656 5656
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