Your weekly round-up of Abu Dhabi news you might have missed, from new openings to updates and city stories worth knowing about
It has been one of those weeks where something new lands almost every day. Blink and you miss it. From big openings to city updates and a few stories worth bookmarking, here is your catch-up on the news you might have missed in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi adds two new Darb toll gates from May 2026
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Abu Dhabi is adding two new Darb toll gates, and drivers will start feeling it from early May. The Integrated Transport Centre has confirmed the rollout, placing the new gates on Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street in Ghantoot and on Wahat Al Karama Street at the entry and exit points of Sheikh Zayed Street. Find out more here.
McGettigan’s brings first Fan Zone to Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is getting its first McGettigan’s Fan Zone, plus a huge multi-concept venue for food, sport and entertainment. Vision Hospitality has confirmed it will open a huge new dining and entertainment space on Al Reem Island, and this one is not playing small. The new 45,000 square foot dining and entertainment space at Reem Mall will bring food, live sport, music and social hangouts to one venue. See the details here.
Special Olympics UAE confirms UAE Games 2026 in Abu Dhabi
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The second UAE Games for People of Determination will take place in Abu Dhabi this June, bringing more than 1,000 athletes together for a growing national event led by Special Olympics UAE. First, the games will open in Dubai with artistic and rhythmic gymnastics at Wellfit Gymnastics Academy in Circle Mall. Then, the focus shifts to the capital, where ADNEC Abu Dhabi and Zayed Sports City’s Khalifa International Bowling Center will host the main competitions. Read more here.
Louvre Abu Dhabi launches new tour with access inside its dome
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For the first time, Louvre Abu Dhabi is letting visitors step inside its most famous feature. The museum has launched a new Architectural Experience, and the headline moment is exactly that. You get to walk within the iconic dome, the vast lattice that has become one of Abu Dhabi’s most recognisable sights. Here’s how to book.
Isabel Mayfair restaurant opened in Abu Dhabi
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London favourite Isabel Mayfair opened at The Galleria, bringing Mediterranean plates, elegant interiors and a day to night dining experience. Read more here.
Michael Jackson biopic hits UAE cinemas this April
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The Michael Jackson biopic, Michael is released in UAE cinemas this week. The biopic follows the King of Pop from his early days as the standout voice of the Jackson Five to his rise as one of the most influential entertainers in music history. It digs into the making of Michael Jackson, charting the ambition and pressure that shaped a career packed with era-defining moments. Find out more here.
Yas Ladies nights return to Yas Waterworld
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Every Friday from 10am to 8pm, Yas Waterworld flips into a women-only space. It offers full privacy, an all-female team, and a day that can easily go from high-energy rides to slow, sun-soaked lounging. Here’s what to expect.
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