What's On in Abu Dhabi — 2026

By Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026

Abu Dhabi hosts over 300 annual events, including the world's largest single-day motorsport event, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which drew 165,000 attendees in 2023.

Events Calendar — Abu Dhabi 2026

Month	Event	Type	Cost
January	Abu Dhabi International Book Fair	Book	AED 50–100
February	Abu Dhabi Festival	Arts	AED 75–350
March	Abu Dhabi Grand Prix	Sport	AED 1,500–12,000
March	Emirates Airline Festival of Literature	Literature	FREE (some sessions AED 30)
April	Emirates Airline Festival of Literature	Literature	FREE (some sessions AED 30)
May	Louvre Abu Dhabi Summer Exhibition: "Islamic Art in Dialogue"	Art	AED 80
June	Abu Dhabi International Film Festival	Film	AED 60–200
August	Desert Festival	Cultural	AED 150
September	Abu Dhabi Food Festival	Food	AED 25–100
October	Abu Dhabi International Book Fair	Book	AED 50–100
November	Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Festival	Music	AED 100–400
December	Abu Dhabi New Year's Eve Fireworks	Entertainment	FREE

Top 3 Events Not to Miss

March

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Race at Yas Marina Circuit on March 22–24, 2026. Features 22 Formula 1 teams competing on a 5.28km street circuit with night racing. Tickets start at AED 1,500 for general admission; premium packages include trackside access. Insider tip: Book grandstand seats 12 months ahead for the best views of the pit lane.

February

Abu Dhabi Festival

Runs February 15–March 10, 2026, across multiple venues including the Corniche and Emirates Palace. Includes performances by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and traditional Emirati dance troupes. Tickets range from AED 75 for chamber music to AED 350 for orchestral concerts. Insider tip: Attend the free "Festival in the Park" events on Saturdays at Al Bateen Park for family-friendly activities.

March

Desert Festival

Held March 15–17, 2026, at Al Dhafra Desert. Features camel racing, falconry demonstrations, and traditional Bedouin camps. Entry fee is AED 150, covering access to all activities and cultural shows. Insider tip: Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and witness the camel racing heats before noon.

Free Events in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach Concerts: Free live music every Friday from 7–9 PM at Corniche Beach, February 14–December 12, 2026. Louvre Abu Dhabi Free Entry: First Friday of each month (January 3, February 7, March 7, etc.) for all exhibitions. Abu Dhabi Heritage Village Open Days: Free access to the traditional village on the first Saturday of every month (e.g., January 4, February 1, March 1, 2026), featuring crafts demonstrations and cultural performances.

Practical Info

March is the optimal month for events, featuring the Grand Prix and Desert Festival. Book tickets for major events like the Grand Prix 6–12 months in advance. The official Abu Dhabi Events app (available on iOS/Android) and www.abudhabi.ae/events provide verified listings and booking.

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