What To Know
- The Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival is a winter favourite packed with rides, arcade games, live performances, food stalls, and a nightly drone show.
- Located inside the Dome of Peace, the museum showcases rare Islamic artefacts, including a 20th-century piece of the Holy Kaaba’s belt and gold-illuminated pages from the historic Blue Quran.
- Step away from city life and immerse yourself in nature at Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to over 147,000 date palms.
The first weekend of the year is the perfect time to reset, explore, and enjoy everything Abu Dhabi has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for adrenaline-fuelled desert action, peaceful cultural moments, or family-friendly festivals, the city has something lined up for everyone. Here are six fantastic things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Enjoy Liwa Festival Before It Ends
One of the UAE’s most iconic desert celebrations, Liwa Festival 2026, is entering its final days. Held in Al Dhafra, the festival blends motorsport, heritage, and entertainment. Motorsport fans can catch the thrilling Tal Moreeb Car Championship, where powerful vehicles race up the famous sand dune. Meanwhile, the traditional Liwa Village features six immersive zones offering culture, shopping, food, and adrenaline-filled activities.
Until: Saturday, January 3
Where: Al Dhafra
Visit the New Light & Peace Museum
A major cultural highlight this year is the newly opened Light & Peace Museum at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Located inside the Dome of Peace, the museum showcases rare Islamic artefacts, including a 20th-century piece of the Holy Kaaba’s belt and gold-illuminated pages from the historic Blue Quran.
Price: Dhs25
When: Daily, 9am–9pm
Explore the Tranquil Al Ain Oasis
Step away from city life and immerse yourself in nature at Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to over 147,000 date palms. Walk along shaded paths, listen to birdsong, and admire the ancient falaj irrigation system that has flowed for over 3,000 years.
Entry: Free
When: Daily, 9am–7pm
Visit MOTN Festival on the Corniche
The Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival is a winter favourite packed with rides, arcade games, live performances, food stalls, and a nightly drone show. One of the biggest attractions is Big Bounce Arabia, the world’s largest bounce house.
From: Dhs35
Until: Sunday, January 4
Where: Abu Dhabi Corniche
Discover New Emirati Cafés at Zayed National Museum
Food lovers can explore three newly opened Emirati-owned cafés at Zayed National Museum’s Al Masar Garden. Expect Arabic specialty teas, Emirati-inspired gelato, and fusion baked goods — all without needing a museum ticket.
Entry: Free
When: Daily, 10am–8pm
Unwind With a Yoga Class
Start 2026 with balance at Seven Wellness on Reem Island. This eco-friendly, vegan wellness space offers yoga, sound healing, reiki sessions, and a healthy café. Classes are open to both men and women.
From: Dhs80 per class
Whether you’re seeking culture, calm, or celebration, Abu Dhabi delivers a vibrant start to the new year this weekend.
