Your Complete Guide to Abu Dhabi Events in 2025
2025 is about to be the year for Abu Dhabi. If you thought the city had it all in 2024, just wait. From heart-racing concerts to world-class art festivals, celeb chef dinners, thrilling sports, and nightlife that'll keep you up past bedtime, this year promises to be one for the books.
Here's your ultimate guide to the biggest events happening in Abu Dhabi in 2025:
Concerts
1. Coldplay – January 9, 11, 12 & 14
Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Get ready to witness the concert of the year as Coldplay lights up Abu Dhabi. Their only confirmed shows in the GCC, Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour promises a night filled with iconic hits like Yellow and Paradise. These tickets sold out fast, so if you’re lucky enough to be there, it’s going to be unforgettable!
2. Michael Bublé – January 16
Saadiyat Island
Michael Bublé is set to serenade Abu Dhabi with his smooth, Grammy-winning voice. This concert is part of the Saadiyat Nights series, offering stunning beachside views and easy access to the island’s luxury resorts. Expect a night of Home, Sway, and his timeless ballads under the stars.
3. Ludovico Einaudi – January 19
Etihad Arena, Yas Island
The Italian composer behind the viral hits Experience and Nuvole Bianche is making his first-ever appearance in Abu Dhabi. Einaudi’s harmonious melodies will fill the iconic Etihad Arena, offering a serene musical escape. Don’t miss the chance to see this classical legend live!
4. Candlelight Concerts – January 18 & 24
Various Locations
Imagine classical tunes and today’s hits performed under the glow of thousands of candles. Whether you're into Coldplay or Adele tributes or Arabic music, these performances are sure to dazzle. Be prepared to be swept away by magical melodies in stunning venues like the Emirates Palace and NYU Blue Hall.
5. Boyz II Men – January 25
Saadiyat Island
It’s a throwback to the ’90s as legendary vocal harmony group Boyz II Men brings their iconic hits like End of the Road to Abu Dhabi. This will be an evening of soul and R&B under the stars—perfect for singing along to your favorite jams.
6. Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Masquerave – February 8
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
Get ready to dance the night away at the Louvre’s Masquerave, where art meets music. This year’s Masquerave promises electrifying performances, stunning visuals, and a mystery vibe. If you missed last year’s Peggy Gou set, don’t worry—this year’s party will be just as epic!
7. Christina Aguilera – February 15
Saadiyat Island
After 17 years, Xtina is finally returning to Abu Dhabi for a night you won’t forget. With an incredible set under the stars, Christina Aguilera’s Saadiyat Nights concert is sure to be a vocal powerhouse, bringing hits like Genie in a Bottle and Beautiful.
8. Sting – April 3
Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Sting is bringing his STING 3.0 World Tour to Abu Dhabi. With longtime collaborator Dominic Miller and drummer Chris Maas, the Police frontman will deliver a night full of his greatest hits. This performance is set to be a must-see for fans of classic rock.
9. BRED Festival – April 23-27
Yas Bay, Yas Island
BRED is back! Abu Dhabi’s favorite neo-cultural festival is bringing you a mix of music, art, and culture with a star-studded lineup. After last year’s unforgettable performances by J Hus, Metro Boomin, and Offset, this year promises more massive names to keep the energy high.
10. Off Limits Festival – April 26
Etihad Park, Yas Island
The largest open-format music festival in the Middle East is coming to Abu Dhabi. Expect two stages packed with over 20 artists across genres like pop, hip-hop, and electronic. With Ed Sheeran headlining, this festival is a must for any music lover.
11. International Jazz Day – April 30
Jazzday.com, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi will host the Global Jazz Day in 2025, bringing together the sounds of jazz with traditional Arabic music. This event will be a unique cultural blend, showcasing the beauty of Arabic jazz in an unmissable fusion of genres.
12. Guns N' Roses – May 27
Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Rock and roll legends Guns N’ Roses are coming to Abu Dhabi as part of their global tour. Expect Sweet Child O' Mine, November Rain, and a setlist full of rock classics that’ll have you singing and headbanging all night long.
Culture Events
1. Kayan Wellness Festival - Jan 31 - Feb 2, 2025
Fahid Island, Abu Dhabi
Ready to hit reset on your mind, body, and soul? The Kayan Wellness Festival is an immersive three-day retreat offering transformative workshops, global wellness experts, and serene surroundings. With spiritual guide Sadhguru, biohacker Gary Brecka, and wellness leaders like Marisa Peer and Mo Gawdat, this festival promises to shift your mindset and elevate your health. From AED 75.
2. Les Misérables Arena Spectacular - Apr 10 - 20, 2025
Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
The iconic musical Les Misérables is coming to Abu Dhabi as part of its world tour. Featuring over 65 cast members and a live orchestra, this arena show promises an immersive experience with stunning visuals and emotional performances. From AED 130.
3. Movies in Concert - Jan 17 - 18, 2025
Etihad Arena, Yas Bay
Join the 21st Century Orchestra for a cinematic symphony featuring live orchestral renditions of Frozen, Jurassic Park, The Lion King, and Top Gun: Maverick. This two-night event promises to elevate your movie-watching experience with a live orchestra. From AED 75.
4. Al Hosn Festival 2025 - Jan 25 - Feb 9, 2025
Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
Immerse yourself in Abu Dhabi’s rich heritage at the Al Hosn Festival, held at the city’s historic Qasr Al Hosn. Experience traditional souks, performances, art exhibits, and interactive workshops celebrating authentic Emirati culture. Free entry.
5. Sheikh Zayed Festival - Until Feb 28, 2025
Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Festival is back with a theme of “Closer,” celebrating diverse cultures with over 6,000 cultural events and 1,000 performances. Highlights include a helicopter experience and a flying restaurant. From AED 10.
6. Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 - Apr 26 - May 5, 2025
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
Book lovers, get ready! The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair will bring together a world of literature with books, seminars, workshops, and panel discussions. It’s the perfect place to meet authors, illustrators, and fellow readers. Free entry.
7. TwoFour54 Studios: A Future Film Hub
Khalifa Industrial Zone, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s media hub, twofour54, is expanding with new film production studios in 2025. The 400,000-square-meter complex will feature state-of-the-art soundstages, virtual production facilities, and even a 3,000 square-meter exterior water tank. The new studios will position Abu Dhabi as a global media powerhouse.
Attractions
1. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Island
The highly anticipated Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is finally nearing completion after years of anticipation. Located on Saadiyat Island, this iconic museum will house modern and contemporary art from around the world. Its stunning architecture and world-class exhibitions promise to make it one of Abu Dhabi's top cultural landmarks.
2. Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island
Get ready for a journey through time at the Natural History Museum, which will showcase Earth's 13.8 billion-year history. Highlights include the 67-million-year-old dinosaur skeleton "Stan" and exhibits exploring the planet's natural wonders. This museum aims to inspire a new generation to protect our environment and highlight pressing global challenges.
3. teamLab Phenomena
Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island
If you love interactive art, teamLab Phenomena is a must-see. This immersive art experience will allow you to step inside the artworks, where the environment shapes the art in real-time. Expect ever-changing, dynamic installations that offer a unique experience with every visit. Perfect for art lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike!
4. Yas Waterworld Expansion
Yas Island
Yas Waterworld is expanding with a new 16,900-square-meter extension, bringing 3.3 kilometers of thrilling slides and 18 fresh attractions. The UAE’s biggest water slide will also make a splash, making this water park a must-visit for adventure seekers and families looking for fun in the sun.
5. New Yas Island Beaches
Yas Island
Yas Island is set to add two stunning beaches to its collection of attractions. East Beach will offer outdoor fitness spaces, sports zones, and a variety of events, while West Beach will be a family-friendly destination with play areas for children, dining outlets, and pedestrian walkways. These new beaches will enhance Yas Island's appeal as a top tourist destination.
6. Zayed National Museum
Saadiyat Island
The Zayed National Museum will celebrate the life and achievements of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Designed to resemble the wings of a falcon, the museum will house important exhibits about the UAE’s heritage, culture, and natural history. With its cutting-edge design and a collection curated by the British Museum, this museum will be a cultural landmark.
Sports
1. Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open - February 1-8, 2025
Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever. With world-class tennis stars like Iga Świątek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Casper Ruud, the event promises electrifying matches from February 1 to 8. With a thrilling round-robin format and fast-paced action, it’s one of the must-see sporting events of the year. Don’t miss out on this tennis extravaganza!
2. Team Cup 2025 - January 10-12, 2025
Abu Dhabi Golf Resort
Get ready for the ultimate golfing showdown at the 2025 Team Cup. European Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald will scout top talent as Team Continental Europe faces off against Team Great Britain & Ireland in a thrilling three-day match play event. Plus, there will be live entertainment, food trucks, and family-friendly fun to enjoy throughout the weekend.
3. Surf Abu Dhabi - February 14-16, 2025
Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi
Surf Abu Dhabi, the world’s most advanced man-made wave park, is set to take the capital by storm in 2025. Home to the world’s longest ride, the largest barrel, and the highest wave, this thrilling park is ready to host the 2025 Championship Tour. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, Surf Abu Dhabi promises to deliver an unforgettable wave-riding experience.
4. Velodrome Abu Dhabi
Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s cycling scene is revving up with the opening of the Velodrome, the region’s first UCI Category 1 indoor track. This sleek, modern venue will offer 360-degree views of the island and is set to host international championships, cycling events, and community programs. As part of the city’s push to become the “City of Bicycles,” the Velodrome will be a central hub for cyclists of all levels.
5. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 - December 4-7, 2025
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is back and more glamorous than ever in 2025. With a thrilling race lineup and the exciting prospect of witnessing Lewis Hamilton's second season with Ferrari, the GP promises to deliver edge-of-your-seat excitement. After the race, the after-party celebrations and concerts will keep the energy high throughout the weekend. Be part of the action at the Yas Marina Circuit!