From glowing art trails to desert thrills, these Abu Dhabi festivals are closing soon. Catch them while you can
If you are looking for ways to kick-start the year without committing to resolutions just yet, Abu Dhabi festivals have you covered. Whether you prefer glowing night walks or desert adventures and family-friendly fun, these are worth catching before they pack up and move on.
MOTN
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MOTN, the city’s favourite playground ends with weekend. There are rides, games, workshops, live shows and a food line-up that makes decision-making very hard. Take the family, your appetite and comfy shoes.
Location: Abu Dhabi Corniche
Times: 4pm to midnight
Cost: Tickets from Dhs35
Manar Abu Dhabi
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The city is glowing for a few more days with Manar Abu Dhabi, a public art exhibition that turns everyday spaces into open-air galleries. Wander between light installations across Jubail Island, the Corniche, Souq Al Mina and the trails in Al Ain’s Qattara and Jimi Oases. It is an easy way to fall in love with Abu Dhabi’s creative pulse all over again.
Location: Al Ain, Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oasis; Abu Dhabi, Jubail Island and Souq Al Mina
Time: 5:30pm to midnight
Liwa International Festival
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The Liwa International Festival is one of winter’s biggest draws and it wraps up on January 3. The desert comes alive with motorsport action near the towering Tal Moreeb dune, alongside cultural showcases and family-friendly fun. Liwa Village is a highlight, with six themed zones packed with shows, activities and plenty to eat. It is loud, lively and worth the drive.
Location: Al Dhafra, Liwa
Time: 4pm to 11pm
Cost: Free entry
Abu Dhabi Mall Winter Village
Abu Dhabi Mall is keeping the festive spirit alive with a Winter Village, Santa meet and greets, craft workshops and live entertainment throughout the month. There are parades, flash mobs and plenty of photo ops, plus a festive market for decorations and handmade finds. Receipts unlock access to Santa and the workshops, which feels like a fair trade.
Location: Abu Dhabi Mall
Time: Winter Village runs until January 4. Activities and entertainment run on selected dates throughout December
Cost: Free entry. Activities require a minimum spend of Dhs50
Contact: (02) 645 4858
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