Abu Dhabi Events Calendar 2026 – Festivals, Sports & Entertainment
Abu Dhabi hosts a variety of events in 2026 including cultural festivals, concerts, sports tournaments, exhibitions, and seasonal celebrations. Here’s a month-by-month guide to help you plan your trip:
January 2026
- Qasr Al Hosn Festival: Heritage celebrations with workshops, storytelling & performances (17 Jan – 1 Feb).
- Liwa Festival: Desert traditions, camel competitions & heritage culture near Moreeb Dune (until 3 Jan).
- Linkin Park Concert: Etihad Arena (20 Jan).
- Saadiyat Nights Series: Outdoor music events on Saadiyat Island with performances by Diana Ross, Seal, Lewis Capaldi, John Mayer, Ricky Martin, Mariah Carey, Bryan Adams (Jan – Feb).
February 2026
- Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open: WTA 500 women’s tennis tournament (31 Jan – 7 Feb).
- Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi: Multi-sport event with 30+ disciplines (6 – 15 Feb).
- Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival: Poetry readings, workshops & performances (9 – 13 Feb).
- TriYas 2026: Triathlon & multi-sport event at Yas Marina Circuit (14 Feb).
March – April 2026
- IAAPA Expo Middle East: Global leisure & attractions expo at ADNEC (31 Mar – 2 Apr).
- Abu Dhabi International Book Fair: Books, panels, workshops & children’s events (11 – 20 Apr).
- Abu Dhabi Festival: International arts & music celebration (from 12 Apr).
- Hydrofoil World Cup: Elite kiteboard competition with beach festival vibes (7 – 12 Apr).
- FAB Cycling Festival: Community rides & active lifestyle celebration (18 – 20 Apr).
- Easter Celebrations: Family brunches and themed events (5 Apr).
May – June 2026
- AI Everything Abu Dhabi: Global AI leadership summit and tech exhibition (11 – 13 May).
- Live Music & Shows at Etihad Arena: Hauser (2 May), Scorpions (3 May), Cats the Musical (14 – 24 May).
October – November 2026
- World Triathlon Multisport Championships: Elite duathlon & triathlon events (13 – 22 Nov).
- SailGP Season Grand Final: Top-level sailing races with entertainment at Zayed Port (28 – 29 Nov).
- Abu Dhabi Boat Show: Yachts, maritime tech & watersports showcase (19 – 22 Nov).
- Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition: Food & hospitality industry expo (24 – 26 Nov).
- Mansour Festival: Family festival with performances, parades & fireworks (late Nov).
- Hyperound K-Fest / Taste of Abu Dhabi: Outdoor food & music festival (mid-Nov).
December 2026
- Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Races, concerts, fan zones & entertainment (4 – 6 Dec).
- Sunburn Festival Abu Dhabi: EDM festival with international DJs (Dec).
- Yas Winterfest: Family winter-themed attractions & markets (Dec).
- Mother of the Nation Festival: Community performances, food trucks & interactive entertainment (Dec).
- Festive Season & New Year’s Eve: Christmas markets, themed brunches & fireworks city-wide (31 Dec).
Tips for Planning
- Check official event websites or ticket platforms for exact dates and updates.
- Book concerts and major events in advance to secure tickets.
- Cooler months (October–April) are ideal for outdoor events and festivals.
