Here’s how to make the most of the month ahead.


Summer’s slowly coming to an end, giving you a few more chances to soak in the sunny vibes. Abu Dhabi is keeping spirits elevated with an incredible line‑up of brunches, concerts, cultural events and family fun. Whether you’re seeking zen moments or high‑energy thrills, this September has something for every taste.

Wednesday 1 October

Explore the UAE’s native plants

The Native exhibition at Al Qattara Arts Centre highlights plants indigenous to the UAE, from the iconic Ghaf tree to desert grasses. Through art installations and informative displays, it tells the story of survival, adaptation, and ecological significance. Entry is free, so make sure you check it out.

GO: Visit https://abudhabiculture.ae for more information.

Al Qattara Arts Centre Al Ain

Thursday 2 October

Catch the NBA Abu Dhabi Games

Basketball fever is coming to Yas Island as the New York Knicks take on the Philadelphia 76ers in two pre-season games at Etihad Arena. Expect star players like Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Joel Embiid, and Paul George to bring their A-game to the court.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025

Friday 3 October

Visit NBA District

At the NBA District in Manarat Al Saadiyat, you can meet the stars, including Derrick Rose, John Starks, Mark Jackson, Michael Carter-Williams, Oscar Robertson and Rudy Gay. Shoot some hoops on a full-size NBA court, catch the highlights, snap a photo with the Larry O’Brien Trophy, snag limited-edition NBA merchandise and much more. Music adds to the atmosphere. The “Friday Night Concert” on 3 October at 8pm features Siilawy, Stick No Bills, Tul8te and DJs Jack and D Nice.

GO: Visit www.ticketmaster.ae for tickets and more information.

NBA District

Saturday 4 October

Go guilt-free at Cyan Brasserie

Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi’s new Guilt-Free Kitchen Party transforms brunch into a high-energy experience with plant-forward dishes, a live DJ, and chefs cooking to the rhythm. Expect bold creations, Insta-worthy plating, and even a few indulgent options for meat-lovers. Available from 1pm to 4pm. AED 375 (mocktails), AED 450 (house beverages), AED 550 (grapes) and AED 650 (bubbly).

GO: Visit www.hyattrestaurants.com for more information.

things to do in Abu Dhabi

Sunday 5 October

Start your day with breakfast at Taparelle

Taparelle’s breakfast menu is carefully crafted to make mornings the highlight of the day. Drawing inspiration from France and Italy, the menu balances hearty favourites with lighter bites – think French toast, avocado toast, and even a build-your-own option. Served with coffee or juice, it’s the ideal start to the day. Available daily, from 8am to 11.30am.

GO: Visit www.taparelle.com for more information.

Taparelle

Monday 6 October 

Sip on Craft by Side Hustle’s new drinks

Craft by Side Hustle on Al Maryah Island has unveiled a new drinks menu blending creativity with indulgence. From playful concoctions of classics to rare, ultra-premium pours, plus an extensive whiskey list, it’s the spot for after-work drinks or weekend gatherings.

GO: Visit https://brewery.ae for more information.

things to do in Abu Dhabi

Tuesday 7 October

Enjoy Taco Tuesday at Barbossa

Barbossa is bringing the fiesta with two hours of unlimited tacos and margaritas. Handmade tortillas, delicious salsas, and endless servings promise a fun evening for all taco lovers. Available on Tuesdays. AED 130 (non-alcoholic beverages) and AED 180 (alcoholic beverages).

GO: Visit https://barbossa.ae for more information.

Barbossa brunch Yas Bay

Wednesday 8 October

Laugh out loud with Sebastian Maniscalco

Comedy heavyweight Sebastian Maniscalco brings his It Ain’t Right tour to Abu Dhabi for the first time. Expect his signature mix of sharp observations, physical humour, and riffs on modern life at Etihad Arena.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

Sebastian Maniscalco Abu Dhabi

Thursday 9 October

Rock out with The Smashing Pumpkins

For the first time in the UAE, The Smashing Pumpkins bring their Rock Invasion 2025 tour to Etihad Arena. With a legacy spanning 30 million albums sold, two Grammys, and an electrifying sound that fuses rock, metal, and more, this is one night of music history you shouldn’t miss.

GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for more information.

Smashing Pumpkins Abu Dhabi

Friday 10 October

Visit Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Escape to the Anantara Spa at Qasr Al Sarab for a holistic summer retreat for two. The experience begins with a 30-minute milk bath, a tranquil soak designed to soften the skin and still the mind, served alongside chilled champagne and indulgent chocolates for a touch of romance. Surrender to a 60-minute Anantara Signature Massage, where Eastern and Western techniques combine to ease tension and melt away stress. Reflexology complements the ritual, restoring balance and enhancing your sense of well-being. Intimate, indulgent, and utterly unforgettable. AED 2,000 per couple.

GO: Visit www.anantara.com for more information.

summer staycations things to do in Abu Dhabi

Saturday 11 October

Enjoy a brunch at the park

The Cafe Restaurant at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is back with a fun Saturday brunch. With fresh oysters, flame-grilled meats, Middle Eastern delights, live entertainment, and curated activities for little ones, this brunch is perfect for all ages. Available on Saturdays, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 415 (soft beverages), AED 525 (house beverages) and AED 720 (bubbly).

GO: Visit www.hyattrestaurants.com for more information.

The Cafe at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi

Sunday 12 October

Enjoy a pool day at Al Ain Rotana

Immerse yourself in a world of enjoyment as you soak up the sun and unwind by the fabulous swimming pool. Whether you’re looking to take a refreshing dip, lounge on the sunbeds or enjoy the serene surroundings, the pool provides the perfect setting for a day of leisure and bliss. Available daily, from 6am to 9.30pm. AED 150 (adults), AED 80 (children under 12).

GO: Visit www.rotana.com for more information.

Abu Dhabi's best pool

Monday 13 October 

Lunch at La Petite Maison

La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi has launched a new business lunch menu, perfect for weekday dining on Al Maryah Island. Choose from two or three courses featuring signature French-Mediterranean dishes such as scallop ceviche, pan-fried sea bream, and a delicate coffee eclair, all served with LPM’s freshly baked baguette and iconic tomato set. Available from 12pm to 3.30pm. AED 135 (Le Petit menu) and AED 180 (The Big menu).

GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com for more information.

Terrace La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi

Tuesday 14 October

Find your zen at Aura Wellness

Step into calm at Aura Wellness, the new holistic hub on Reem Island. This serene, Balinese-inspired studio combines Pilates, yoga, and Brazilian Body classes with mindful living and curated wellness experiences. There’s also a concept store with activewear and sustainable decor.

GO: Visit @aurawellness.ae on Instagram for more information.

Aura Wellness

Wednesday 15 October

Make a splash at Yas Waterworld

When the heat’s on, Yas Waterworld is where it’s at. Now with even more rides, slides, and attractions, this waterpark promises a full day of fun for all ages. Whether you’re diving into thrills or just cooling off, it’s a summer essential.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

Yas Waterworld expansion

Thursday 16 October

Dine at Society Cafe & Kitchen

Society Cafe at Mamsha Al Saadiyat has unveiled a new all-day menu featuring comfort classics like avocado on toast, truffle croque monsieur, teriyaki salmon bowls, and a kids’ menu too. Their new in-house grocer offers homemade granola, jams, sourdough, and more – blending dining with local shopping. The new menu builds on Society’s best-loved staples, while maintaining a familiar and welcoming feel.

GO: Visit https://societyuae.com for more information.

Society Mamsha

Friday 17 October

Enjoy a spa day at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri

Experience ultimate relaxation this summer at the FACT award-winning Chi, The Spa, located in the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri. Indulge in their signature Relaxing Aroma Massage, which promises to revitalise your skin and soothe your muscles. AED 582 per person (60 minutes) and AED 811 per person (90 minutes).

GO: Call 02 509 8904 for reservations and more information.

festive spa treatments

Saturday 18 October

Soak in a soulful evening with Andre Rieu

The King of Waltz, Andre Rieu, is returning to Etihad Arena with his Johann Strauss Orchestra. Expect a dazzling performance of opera classics, film scores, romantic ballads, and, of course, Andrew Rieu’s world-famous waltzes, all wrapped in his trademark charisma and showmanship.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

Eihad Arena Clash of the Legends

Sunday 19 October

Experience live teppanyaki at Benihana

At Beach Rotana’s Benihana, chefs cook Japanese-American teppanyaki favourites right before your eyes, from wagyu and Angus beef to lobster and Hokkaido scallops. This meal promises to be as theatrical as it is delicious. Available from 1pm to 12am.

GO: Visit www.rotana.com for more information.

Benihana

Monday 20 October

Release your stress at The Smash Room

Shake off all those midweek blues at The Smash Room. This concept lets you smash glassware, printers, and even washing machines in a controlled and safe environment, giving you a chance to let loose and have some fun. 

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

The Smash Room

Tuesday 21 October

Rock out with Scorpions

Iconic rock bands have come and gone, but 60 years since its inception, the Scorpions are still going strong. In fact, the legendary band is embarking on its Coming Home — 60 Years of Scorpions world tour in 2025, with a pit stop in Abu Dhabi confirmed for 21 October at Etihad Arena. Formed in Hanover back in 1965, the band has long been a disruptor in hard rock and heavy metal, distinguished by influential lyrics that reflected the remarkable developments in Germany during that time. Their success has been marked by several chart-topping hits, with over 120 million records sold and a single, Wind of Change, surpassing one billion views on YouTube.

GO: Visit www.livenation.me for more information.

Scorpions Abu Dhabi

Wednesday 22 October

Scale thrilling new heights

Located in Yas Mall, CLYMB Abu Dhabi offers heart-pounding experiences that will leave you buzzing with excitement. Test your climbing skills on the five different walls of the climbing arena, or take on the ultimate challenge of scaling The Summit, a towering 141-foot wall. And if that’s not enough, brace yourself for the world’s largest indoor skydiving flight chamber, where you can experience the thrill of skydiving in a controlled environment.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

The best of Abu Dhabi this weekend

Thursday 23 October

Chill out at Snow Abu Dhabi

Beat the desert heat with a visit to Snow Abu Dhabi, one of the capital’s coolest attractions – quite literally. Located in Reem Mall, this place offers an indoor winter wonderland where you can experience sub-zero temperatures and snowy activities that are perfect to beat the heat.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

Snow Abu Dhabi

Friday 24 October

Party with the Vengaboys

The ultimate 90s party band is bringing their high-energy hits to Bla Bla Bar at Yas Marina. Dance the night away to Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom!!, We Like to Party!, and more, plus outrageous outfits, visuals, and a throwback atmosphere guaranteed to transport you straight to the golden age of Eurodance. 

GO: Visit www.yasmarina.ae for more information.

things to do in Abu Dhabi

Saturday 25 October

Watch a UFC fight

The UFC returns to Etihad Arena with a blockbuster championship event headlined by Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane. Expect an action-packed card that will once again put Abu Dhabi at the centre of the global MMA spotlight.

GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for more information.

UFC 321

Sunday 26 October

Tuck into Italian flavours at Dino’s Weekend Brunch

Dino’s Bistro Italiano is bringing authentic Italian flavours to the weekend with its much-loved à la carte brunch. Expect a warm, casual setting where plates of antipasti, fresh seafood, and hearty Italian mains are served straight to your table. Think creamy pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and traditional favourites designed for sharing. Available on Saturdays, from 12pm to 4pm. AED 220 (soft beverages) and AED 280 (house beverages).

GO: Visit www.rotana.com for more information.


Monday 27 October

Visit teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi

Spanning a massive 17,000 square meters, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is an immersive space where interacting with the artwork is positively encouraged. Guests step into a world of creativity and innovation, surrounded by massive, ever-evolving exhibits that blur the boundaries between perception and reality. In Massless Suns and Dark Suns, spheres of light and darkness converge to challenge the way we see the world. A simple touch ignites a radiant glow, triggering a ripple effect that spreads across the space. Expanding on this interplay, the Levitation Void introduces a suspended presence—an energy-born void that defies the laws of gravity.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information. 

teamLab Phenomena things to do in Abu Dhabi

Tuesday 28 October

Feast on Antonia pizza at new Yas Island location

Abu Dhabi’s award-winning Italian restaurant brand Antonia is celebrating its fourth anniversary with a brand-new opening at Ansam, Yas Island. Known for Roman-style pizza al taglio, hearty pastas, and homestyle Italian classics, this new spot will also feature new dishes like roasted octopus and profiteroles with ice cream that you absolutely should not miss.

GO: Visit www.antoniarestaurant.com for more information.

Antonia Dubai

Wednesday 29 October

Explore the Abrahamic Family House

Make a visit to the Abrahamic Family House, which brings together a mosque, a church, and a synagogue under one roof — representing the peaceful coexistence of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Not only can you admire the surroundings and the beautiful architecture, but you can also soak in the learnings of each religion.

GO: Visit www.abrahamicfamilyhouse.ae for more information.

Abrahamic Family House

Thursday 30 October

Take a peaceful stroll through Al Ain Oasis

Head to Al Ain Oasis for a quiet escape into nature. Wander among the ancient date palms, listen to birdsongs, and soak up the calm of the shaded pathways and historic falaj irrigation system. Whether you’re exploring with family or flying solo, it’s the perfect reset from city life.

GO: Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more information.

attractions in Al Ain

Friday 31 October

Unwind with a staycation at Four Seasons Abu Dhabi

Relax in luxury with a staycation at Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island. Indulge in fine dining at renowned restaurants like Butcher & Still and Cafe Milano, or unwind at The Pearl Spa with a range of treatments. This Four Seasons property promises a staycation that’s as comfortable as it is glamorous.

GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for more information.

outdoor dining in Abu Dhabi