Things to do in Abu Dhabi

Here's our comprehensive guide to what's happening in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain in the coming weeks: including concerts, art exhibitions, talks and workshops, fitness, family events and more. Bookmark this list as it will be updated several times each week with all of the latest things to do in the UAE's capital. Visiting Dubai? Here are things to do in Dubai. Wednesday, September 18 The Laughter Factory brings its Summer, WitTank show to Abu Dhabi with three top international comedians including Canadian Pat Burtscher (pictured), who is making his regional debut with his personal stories, the “Silly Brummie” Andy White who promises that anything could happen when he gets on stage; and Marcus Birdman who returns to the UAE with his witty physical comedy act. September 18, 8pm, from Dh160, Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi, 050 878 6728, www.thelaughterfactory.com __________________________ Friday, September 20 Celebrate the end of summer at La Noche Blanca at Coya Abu Dhabi, the annual all-white party with an underwater world theme. Enjoy a mystical aquatic vibe with a themed art exhibition by Emirati artist Mahra, music by resident DJs, acrobat performances and more. Plus, indulge in Peruvian speciality dishes from the a la carte menu. From 7pm, Coya Abu Dhabi, Four Seasons, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, 02 306 7000, www.coyarestaurant.com __________________________ Friday, September 20 NSO Symphony Orchestra led by conductor Simon Hilderbing present La Dolce Vita , a 90-minute musical programme featuring classical and contemporary pieces including Mozart's Eine Kleine Nachtmusik , Bach's Air on a G String and Zoosters Breakout, by Hans Zimmer for the film Madagascar . 4.30pm and 7.30pm, from Dh100, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, www.nsouae.org __________________________ Until Saturday, September 21 Make plans to attend a performance of Flight — Vox Motus , a storytelling event based on the book Hinterland, by Caroline Brothers. The show mixes the visuals of a graphic novel with diorama and tells the unsettling story of lost children in dangerous lands as two orphaned brothers embark on a journey across Europe to freedom and safety with their inheritance stitched into their clothes. Viewers are seated in their own personal booth to watch the action unfold with sound conveyed through headphones. Various timings, from Dh100, The Black Box, NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, www.nyuad-artscenter.org __________________________ Saturday, September 21 In celebration of Batman’s 80th anniversary, take part in the attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people wearing capes at Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. Fans of all ages are invited to take part and enjoy special entertainment featuring Batman, including interactive segments, character meet and greets and more. Plus, enjoy the park’s rides and attractions. 3pm, Warner Bros Plaza, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, www.wbworldabudhabi.com __________________________ Tuesday, September 24 See a screening of Grand Illusion at Cinema Space. The 1937 Jean Renoir film is one of the first prison-escape movies and takes place is the German prison camps of the First World War. French pilots must work together to concoct a plan to escape from the high-security camp where they are held. The film explores class relations and French society of the time. It is in French with English subtitles. 7.30pm, free with registration, Cinema Space, auditorium, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, register at cinemaspace-abudhabi.splashthat.com __________________________ Tuesday, September 24 to Thursday, September 26 Milset Expo-Sciences International 2019 is a Steam (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) educational fair for young scientists and innovators aged nine to 25. There will be panel discussions, networking opportunities and more as participants from around the world arrive in the capital to present science projects in 13 categories including biology, chemistry, Earth science, mathematics and medicine and health. The event is open to the public. Free, Adnec, Abu Dhabi, www.esi2019.ae __________________________ Thursday, September 26 and Friday, September 27 Book tickets for Whose Line Is It Anyway? as The Noise Next Door bring the beloved improv set to shows in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In a show of one-liners and physical comedy, the quartet of performers takes audience suggestions and transforms the ideas into funny scenes and songs. 9pm on September 26, Movenpick JBR, Dubai; 9pm on September 27, Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi, from Dh180, www.thelaughterfactory.com __________________________ Friday, September 27 Attend the season eight debut of Rooftop Rhythms, Abu Dhabi’s community-run poetry slam competition and open mic night. Hear diverse voices and viewpoints from established and emerging spoken-word talent from around the region. DJ Allad will provide the tunes, and food and beverages will be available for purchase. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8pm, free with registration, The Marketplace, NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, www.nyuad-artscenter.org __________________________ Thursday, September 26 to Saturday, September 28 Book tickets for the Pinkfong Baby Shark live musical, with three upbeat, family-friendly live performances daily that feature the hit children's song Baby Shark as well as colourful LED light displays, and singalongs with the whole cast. An activity area is open two hours before each show and there are meet-and-greets, family dining and entertainment options available. Shows at 4pm, 6.30pm and 8.30pm on September 26; and at 3pm, 5.30pm and 8pm on September 27 and September 28, from Dh65, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, tickets.virginmegastore.me __________________________ Until Monday, September 30 Aspiring musicians in the region are encouraged to submit their entries for the 2019 Flash Entertainment Yasalam Emerging Talent Competition. Upload links of music, images and demos at the Yasalam website by September 30, and a judging panel will select 10 acts to compete, with a training and mentorship programme and a live acoustic performance in the capital, where the top three finalists will be chosen. The winner will perform during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and enjoy a residency at du Arena during the 2019-2020 season. Abu Dhabi, www.yasalam.ae __________________________ Friday, October 4 Book tickets for the NSO Symphony Orchestra's performance of Hooray for Hollywood , led by conductor Andrew Berryman, and featuring music from Academy Award winning films such as Harry Potter, Superman, Pirates of the Caribbean, The King's Speech and Star Wars . 4.30pm and 7.30pm, from Dh150, auditorium, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, www.nsouae.org __________________________ Thursday, October 10 Book tickets to see Wrong Jovi, a four-piece Bon Jovi tribute band from the UK who perform the American group's most loved singalong anthems such as Livin' On a Prayer, Wanted Dead or Alive, Bed of Roses and Bad Medicine . A DJ will also be on hand to spin tunes before and after the show. 6.30pm, from Dh50 for members; from Dh75 for non-members, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, 056 536 2230, events@adgolfclub.ae __________________________ Friday, October 11 Register to take part in Abu Dhabi’s first Tough Mudder, which will take place on Al Hudayriat Island. The mud-drenched obstacle race features four different routes, including the Tough Mudder 5K with 13 obstacles; the Tough Mudder Classic with more than 25 obstacles; the Tougher Mudder and the Mini Mudder for children aged seven to 13. New obstacles include the Black Widow and the Leap of Faith, while favourites Pyramid Scheme, Mud Mile and Everest 2.0 also reappear on the course. From 8am, from Dh350, Al Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi, www.toughmudder.ae __________________________ Friday, October 11 and Saturday, October 12 Make plans to attend Wipeout WKND at Yas Marina. The water festival features an adults-only Friday nightlife session and a family-friendly Saturday. There will be an extreme speed slide into the marina, inflatable wipeout obstacle course, gladiator-style water jousting, inflatable rollers and a saltwater swimming pool. There will be pop-up food stalls, a live DJ, games and more. Saturday features SUP football, inflatables, a swimming pool in the marina, games and more. 4pm to 11pm on Friday for adults only; 10am to 6pm on Saturday for all ages, entry fee from Dh100 per adult; from Dh50 per child, food and drink packages available, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.yasmarina.ae __________________________ Wednesday, October 16 Catch a show on The Laughter Factory’s Social Faux Pas! Tour, featuring Irish comic Eleanor Tiernan, who brings a masterclass in stand-up; former comedy club doorman Emmanuel Sonubi (pictured), who is described as a comedic force of nature; and New York-raised Mike Capozzola, who delivers the laughs with his dry sense of humour. 8pm, Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi; from Dh160, 050 878 6728, www.thelaughterfactory.com __________________________ Thursday, October 17 to Saturday, October 19 Book your tickets for the Yas Movies in the Park outdoor cinema experience. Enjoy a weekend of al fresco daily screenings, music and entertainment, shopping, food trucks, a kids' zone, carnival rides and a funfair. Films include Pokemon Detective Pikachu, Aladdin, Moana, The Greatest Showman, Beauty and the Beast and Avengers: End Game. 4pm to midnight, free entry with registration, from Dh65 for the VIP experience, du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.yasmovies.ae __________________________ Friday, October 25 American rapper Eminem returns to Abu Dhabi on his Kamikaze world tour. The stadium show will feature other performers including Royce Da 5'9 and DJ The Alchemist. Hit songs include Lose Yourself , Stan , Without Me and The Real Slim Shady. From Dh395, du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.ticketmaster.ae __________________________ Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26 South African comedian and host of The Daily Show , Trevor Noah, returns to du Forum for two nights of stand-up hilarity. Noah has been performing regularly in the UAE since 2014 when he hit the stage at Ductac. He headlined the Dubai Comedy Festival in 2015 and last performed in Abu Dhabi in December 2017. Those with tickets from his previously scheduled December 2018 show can contact Ticketmaster at 800 86823. 8.30pm on October 25; 7pm on October 26, from Dh300, du Forum, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.ticketmaster.ae __________________________ Weekdays until Wednesday, October 30 KidZania at The Dubai Mall has something to keep little ones entertained after the final school bell rings. At the entertainment hub’s After-School Mania, children will get to explore role-playing activities such as reading the news like a TV anchor and keeping the city safe like a police officer in interactive sessions that start from 4pm. Book tickets online or at the KidZania ticket counter. After 4pm, Sundays to Wednesdays, from Dh99, KidZania, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi; The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, 800 38224 6255, www.kidzania.ae __________________________ Friday, November 1 Celebrate the 45th anniversary of Alliance Francaise Abu Dhabi with a gala dinner featuring the flavours and delicacies of south-western France created by Michelin-starred chef Vivien Durand and his partner chef Patxi Massonde. There will be a musical performance, a DJ and a raffle with prizes including air-travel tickets, dinner vouchers, hotel stays and more. 7pm, from Dh300 for members; from Dh350 for non-members, InterContinental Hotel, Abu Dhabi, www.afabudhabi.org __________________________ Thursday, November 7 to Saturday, November 9 Book tickets now for Taste of Abu Dhabi, the sixth edition of the food, drink and music festival. Experience three days of cuisine from the capital’s top restaurants, cookery demonstrations, masterclasses, appearances by celebrity chefs including Annabel Karmel, Assia Othman, John Torode and Jean Christophe Novelli, plus workshops, live entertainment and more. Enjoy performances by Yeah Yeah Nah, UB40 featuring Ali & Astro, and Boyzlife. From 4pm to 11pm on November 7; noon to midnight on November 8; noon to 11pm on November 9, early bird tickets from Dh125 for Thursday; from Dh49.50 for Friday and Saturday, du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.tasteabudhabi.com __________________________ Thursdays, ongoing Ladies Season at Yas Waterworld means women-only days and nights events with an entire female staff and no mobile phones, to ensure guests’ comfort. Enjoy the 40 rides, slides and attractions along with special events like aqua Zumba in the Amwaj Wave Pool with a female DJ playing top hits. 10am to 11pm on Thursdays for Ladies Days on September 5; October 3; November 7; 6pm to 11pm on Thursdays for Ladies Nights on September 12, 19, 26; October 10, 17, females only, Yas Waterworld, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.yaswaterworld.com __________________________ Thursday, November 28 to Monday, December 2 Book tickets for the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2019, which runs for five full days this year, including activities to celebrate UAE National Day on December 2. The final Grand Prix of the Formula One season includes the Pit Walk, on-track racing, off-track entertainment and post-race concerts. There are special offers on ticket and hospitality packages, the Super Parks Pass with access to Yas Island theme parks and more. Various timings, from Dh699 for a two-day Abu Dhabi Hill ticket, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.yasmarinacircuit.com _________________________ Tuesday, December 31 American pop singer Bruno Mars will ring in 2020 at du Arena this New Year's Eve as part of his Resolution by Night tour. Hits include Just the Way You Are , Grenade , The Lazy Song and Marry You . The fun continues on January 1 with the Resolution by Day festival from 2pm to 10pm, with a 300-metre inflatable castle with 40 obstacles, plus live entertainment, children's shows, face-painting and more. From Dh350, du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.ticketmaster.ae _________________________ Thursday, September 26 to Saturday, September 28 Book your spot at the Vietnamese food pop-up at Shangri-La Hotel. Chef Thuy Pham, founder of The Little Viet Kitchen in London, comes to Abu Dhabi to share authentic dishes from her home country, along with her mother, who will also be cooking in the kitchen. From Dh448, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, 02 509 8555, restaurantreservations.slad@shangri-la.com _________________________ Until Monday, September 30 Created in collaboration with Mattar Farm, Dubai’s first artisan smokehouse known for its handcrafted smoked meats, Black Tap's new limited-edition Cuban Burger offers a tangy take on the classic dish. Priced at Dh99 in Dubai and Dh89 in Abu Dhabi, the burger is made from Mattar Farm’s smoked brisket, and is finished with smoked Swiss cheese, turkey ham, chimichurri, Cuban mustard sauce and pickles. From Dh89 in Abu Dhabi; from Dh99 in Dubai, Cascade Dining, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi; Jumeirah Al Naseem, Dubai; Rixos Premium Dubai JBR; InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Dubai, www.blacktapme.com __________________________ Saturday, October 12 Book your spot at the Only Fools and Three Courses The Sequel dinner at Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Following the popular event in February hosted by Marlene and Boycie of Only Fools and Horses , expect this comedy dining experience to include appearances by DCI Roy Slater, Del, Rodney, Trigger, Uncle Albert and the gang, who will keep your bellies full and laughing. 7pm to 10pm, from Dh320 for members; from Dh350 for non-members for three courses and unlimited soft drinks, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi, adgcdiningevents.com __________________________ Daily, ongoing Attend Hakkatini Nights Abu Dhabi daily at Hakkasan and enjoy two selected beverages and a small food platter from Dh96. The daily event runs from 6pm to 8pm, but on Wednesdays, the fun is extended to 11pm. Enjoy traditional Cantonese flavours this summer in the cool, indoor bar area. 6pm to 8pm, Thursdays to Tuesdays; 6pm to 11pm on Wednesdays, from Dh96, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, hakkasan.com/abu-dhabi __________________________ Fridays and Saturdays, until September 28 View Louvre Abu Dhabi from a different perspective: on the water. Kayaking at the Museum takes place every Friday and Saturday, with one-hour sessions led by professional instructors that begin with a safety and paddle briefing before beginning the tour into the stillness of the Arabian Sea to discover the architecture from another angle. No prior experience is necessary. 8am; 9.30am; 4.30pm; 6pm, from Dh120 per hour, ages six+, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, www.louvreabudhabi.ae __________________________ Until Monday, September 30 Book one night at a hotel on Yas Island this summer and each child under the age of 12 can play at the island’s three theme parks for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Enjoy access to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. Explore fun and activities at Yas Beach, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Kart Zone, the Serdal Pearl Diving Expedition, Yas Mall and more. Various prices, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.yasisland.ae __________________________ Mondays, ongoing Mommy Hours at Heavenly Spa is where mums can enjoy a choice of any three rejuvenating treatments — back massage, mini facial, foot massage or scrub — as well as light bites and tea in the relaxation room. Get ready for the rest of the week with pool access, high tea, an Elemis gift bag and more. 9am to 2pm, from Dh275, Heavenly Spa, The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, 02 616 9999, heavenlyspa.auh@westin.com __________________________ Daily, ongoing The Hot House is launching its kids' yoga classes this summer, and they are a great way to introduce little ones to the practice. Children will explore mindfulness, as well as the importance of breathing and movement. The classes are held in a safe, playful environment for those aged four to 12. 3.45pm to 4.30pm for ages four to seven; 4.45pm to 5.30pm for ages eight to 12, from Dh65 per class; packages from Dh240 for four classes, sibling discount 10 per cent, The Hot House, Al Zeina, Abu Dhabi, 02 583 7753, info@thehothouseuae.com __________________________ Daily, ongoing Sign up to take part in the new Bounce Freestyle Academy skill-development coaching programme and express yourself creatively with balance, co-ordination, strength and agility. There are three programmes: Mini-Bounce Squad for toddlers; Bounce Squad for early school-year children; and Flight Squad, which is a trampoline-based programme for all levels to learn skills and tricks. Four free sign-up days take place on September 6-7 and September 13-14 and feature Bounce experts showcasing their skills, the chance to meet coaches and learn about each programme. Various timings, from Dh1,000 for 10 sessions, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi; Remal Mall, Al Ain; Al Quoz, Dubai, 04 321 1400, bounce.ae __________________________ Until Monday, September 30 Bodytree Studio has a new set of classes available this month, including yoga, Pilates and dance classes taught by trained experts and catering to all age groups and skill sets. Classes are available for men and women, with disciplines including kundalini yoga, ashtanga express, spinal flow, power yoga and osho dance meditation, as well as open level reformer Pilates and Spin Tribe. Various timings, from Dh125 for an unlimited introductory package valid for seven days, Bodytree Studio, Abu Dhabi, 02 443 4448, info@bodytreestudio.com __________________________ Tuesday, September 17; Tuesday, September 24; Tuesday, October 1 Sign up to take part in the prenatal yoga classes at The Hot House, led by Lenka Dalby, who will help develop specific breathing and relaxation techniques and instruct participants on how to create a self-practice at home throughout the their pregnancy. The course is for mothers-to-be who are new to yoga, or are seasoned yogis, looking to increase strength and flexibility as well as a healthy mind and body. 11.30am to 12.30pm, from Dh85 per class; from Dh320 for all four classes, The Hot House, Al Zeina, Abu Dhabi, 02 583 7753, www.thehothouseuae.com __________________________ Tuesdays in October starting October 1 Register to take part in acting courses for adults led by Sorbonne University theatre instructor Sol Abiad. The month-long programme is based on select material for beginners as well as season actors, and focuses on skills maintenance through theatre games and acting exercises. Participants are encouraged to think creatively and analytically to develop skills and enhance communication. 6pm to 8pm on Tuesdays, from Dh960, Warehouse421, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, www.warehouse421.ae __________________________ Tuesdays until November 26 Register your children aged four and older for the YogaOne Kids Yoga Programme led by Sonia Stern, who uses imaginative themes to introduce mindfulness, basic yoga concepts and postures in a class designed to build strength and flexibility, reduce stress and promote a positive body image. The classes include poses, breathing exercises and meditation that kids can practise at home, school and with friends. 4pm to 4.30pm for ages four to seven; 4.30pm to 5.15pm for ages eight and older, from Dh70, packages available, YogaOne, Mangrove One, Abu Dhabi, 02 564 1217, info@yogaone.ae __________________________ Tuesday, September 17 Attend a talk by Athol Yates on the Emirates’ military and police forces from 1951 to 1980, as part of the Emirates Natural History Group lecture series. Yates, a professor at Khalifa University, will present his new book, in which he explores the security services of the UAE, from the time the country was a British protected state through the unification of the militaries and the establishment of individual emirates’ police forces. 7pm for sign-in; lecture from 7.30pm, free with registration, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Abu Dhabi, enhg.org __________________________ Tuesday, September 17 to Wednesday, November 20 Learn the craft of tatreez, Palestinian embroidery, in a six-part short course led by artist Joanna Barakat, as part of the September programme of events at Warehouse421. Learn about its connections to regions in Palestine as well as how the art has evolved in the past 60 years. Cross-stitch a Star of Bethlehem pattern and learn about the meanings behind the common tatreez motifs from various regions of Palestine. 5.30pm to 8.30pm, Tuesdays, every other week, from Dh720, Warehouse421, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, www.warehouse421.ae __________________________ Friday, September 20 to Saturday, September 21 Take part in the Photography Level 1 course led by Gulf Photo Plus as part of the September programme of events at Warehouse421. The two-day session led by Laura Huntley will teach budding photographers the foundations of the craft: exposure, controls of a digital camera and more, with an emphasis on creative freedom. No prior knowledge of DSLR photography is necessary, just a camera, memory card and a notebook. 10am to 3pm, from Dh780, Warehouse421, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, www.warehouse421.ae __________________________ Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 2; Saturday, September 28 and Sunday, September 29 Learn the art of Arabic Calligraphy in a short course led by Majid Alyousef and Wissam Shawkat as part of the September programme of events at Warehouse421. The workshop covers a range of styles, including Ruqa’a and Diwani, and teaches the history and development of the art as well as examples of works by great masters. 4pm to 7pm, from Dh800, ages 18+, Warehouse421, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, www.warehouse421.ae __________________________ Sundays and Wednesdays, ongoing Register for the next season of Yoga at Umm Al Emarat with Neli and become part of the active community that joins weekly to explore the asanas and rediscover themselves. Take part in imaginative and challenging sequences of poses that rejuvenate the body and mind. Classes end with a guided meditation in shavasana. 7pm to 8pm, from Dh60 per class; packages available, plus Dh10 to enter the park, Umm Al Emarat Park, Wisdom Garden, Abu Dhabi, www.eventbrite.co.uk Saturday, October 5; Saturday, November 2; Saturday, December 28 Register to take part in the Emirati Dagger Programme at Qasr Al Muwaiji and learn the secrets of making a dagger, including the equipment and materials used as well as the correct way to wear it. Learn about the inscription and special decorations on the daggers of the ruling families of the UAE. 11am to 3pm, free with registration, Qasr Al Muwaiji, Al Ain, register at 03 767 4444, reservations@qasralmuwaiji.ae __________________________ Thursday, November 7 Book your place at the Self-Awareness and Love to Access Personal Power retreat led by global women’s rights leader Manal Omar. The leadership programme focuses on encouraging women to connect with nature and their bodies for guidance. The curriculum is partially Islamic based and welcomes guests from all walks of life to explore their feminine life force energy in personal and professional settings. From Dh3,000, Al Ain, book by September 14 at www.acrossredlines.com/retreats __________________________ Saturday, September 28 Michelle Alison, along with her husband Sebastien, lead Ashtanga 1.5 combined series, which introduces the second series backbends and other challenging poses and inversions that the primary series doesn’t include. The class aims to provide a more balanced practice for the body. The class is suitable for intermediate practitioners. 2pm to 4.30pm, from Dh190, The Hot House, Al Zeina, Abu Dhabi, 02 583 7753, www.thehothouseuae.com __________________________ Thursday, October 3 to Wednesday, October 9 Take part in the 50-hour Yin Yoga Training at The Hot House led by Alexandra Van Schaik. Learn how to integrate the teachings of yin into your class or personal practice by finding how to benefit from finding balance between yin and yang energy. Learn the postures, how to use props, details of anatomy and the fascial system, how to create sequences and the integration of mindfulness and meditation. Various timings, from Dh3,590; The Hot House, Al Zeina, Abu Dhabi, 02 583 7753, www.thehothouseuae.com __________________________ Until Wednesday, November 27 Attend free training sessions in preparation for the Adnoc Abu Dhabi Marathon, which takes place on December 6. Each session is dedicated to distance running and will include a mixture of general drills, easy runs, fartleks, intervals, long runs, tempo runs and uphill runs. Mondays, 6.15pm to 7.30pm, Al Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi; Wednesdays, 7.45pm to 9.15pm, International Tennis Stadium, Zayed Sports City, www.adnocabudhabimarathon.com __________________________ Sundays, ongoing Start your week with a walk, jog, run or ride around the 5.55km Yas Marina Circuit at StartYas, a community health initiative presented by Daman ActiveLife. Families and friends can enjoy the cooler weather and stay or get fit this winter. Rent bikes and helmets from Fun Ride Sports or take advantage of the 400 bikes made available to borrow from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. 6pm to 10pm, free with registration, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, register at www.yasmarinacircuit.com __________________________ Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays until Thursday, September 19 Take part in TrainAM with Abu Dhabi Cycling Club at Yas Marina Circuit and get your bike laps in early in the day. This summer, enjoy a spin around the track during the cooler morning weather every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. The full 5.55-kilometre track is open and offers a safe place to ride. Participants must bring their own bike with lights, as well as water and other equipment 5am to 8am, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays until September 19, free with registration, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.yasmarinacircuit.com __________________________ Mondays from September 30 Register now to take part in Step ZSC, formerly TrainZSC, which returns on Monday, September 30. The vertical training event involves running up and down the steps of the International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City in a motivating atmosphere. There are 20-minute express fitness classes every half-hour, with exercises including functional core, shape, boxfit and tabata. The ladies-only session runs from 4pm to 5.30pm. There is also a supervised kids’ area with bouncy castles and more. 4pm to 5.30pm for ladies only; 5.30pm to 8pm for everyone, free with registration, International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi __________________________ Tuesdays, ongoing TrainYas presented by Daman ActiveLife is a weekly event that lets you get fit or stay fit this winter with a walk, jog, run or bike around the 5.55km track. Rent bikes and helmets from Fun Ride Sports or take advantage of the 400 bikes available to borrow from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. 6pm to 10pm, free with registration, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, register at www.yasmarinacircuit.com __________________________ Wednesdays, ongoing Women will enjoy a walk, run or bike ride around Yas Marina Circuit as part of the women-only fitness event GoYas, presented by Daman ActiveLife. The circuit is shortened to 3km and the event is staffed by women to protect the privacy of participants. Bicycles are available for rent and to borrow. 6pm to 10pm, free with registration, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, register at www.yasmarinacircuit.com __________________________ Daily, ongoing KidZania has opened in Abu Dhabi, at Yas Mall. The replica of a bustling city features more than 50 role-playing activities for real-life professions such as surgeons, firefighters, chefs, police officers, models, actors, artists and more. Children aged two to 16 can enjoy playing in a way that helps them develop decision making, teamwork, creativity and social skills. 10am to 10pm, from Dh166, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.kidzania.ae __________________________ Daily, ongoing Visit the recently opened Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the UAE, where you can learn more about the rulers and the country’s government, view the craftsmanship and the architecture and explore the extensive library, as well as exhibitions that celebrate the region’s heritage. There is a garden, a visitors’ centre, restaurants, gift shops, a cafe and more. 10am to 8pm, from Dh25 for the garden only; from Dh60 for the palace and garden; tours from Dh30 with paid entry ticket, Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi, 600 544442, www.qasralwatan.ae __________________________ Daily, ongoing Visit the Heritage Village, a reconstructed oasis village run by the Emirates Heritage Club. Experience traditional aspects of desert life through exhibitions and demonstrations, including metal work and pottery, spinning and weaving and more. There is also a shop, where you can buy items such as spices, herbs and handmade soaps. 9am to 4pm, Saturdays to Thursdays; 3.30pm to 9pm on Fridays, Heritage Village, near Marina Mall, Corniche Breakwater, Abu Dhabi, 02 681 4455, www.visitabudhabi.ae __________________________ Daily, ongoing Visit Qasr Al Hosn and learn how Abu Dhabi went from a pearling settlement to a thriving capital city. At 250 years old, Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest and most significant building in Abu Dhabi, and its recent renovations enable visitors to experience traditional and cultural aspects of the city’s historical roots. Visit the House of Artisans, take part in workshops and witness the changing of the guards. 9am to 7pm, Saturdays to Thursdays; noon to 10pm on Fridays, from Dh30, Qasr Al Hosn, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Abu Dhabi, qasralhosn.ae __________________________ Tuesdays to Sundays, ongoing Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi and enjoy a universal museum that focuses on what unites humanity, through the stories of cultures and civilisations around the world and throughout history. The galleries are presented in chronological order and four temporary exhibitions are presented annually. 10am to 8pm, Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 10am to 10pm on Thursdays and Fridays, from Dh63, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 600 56 55 66, www.louvreabudhabi.ae __________________________ Daily, ongoing Visit the Marina Eye on the Corniche Breakwater for an exciting new perspective of the capital. The Ferris wheel has 42 capsules, including a number of luxury VIP capsules, for an unparalleled view of the Corniche and the Marina Mall area. 10am to 11pm, Sunday to Wednesday; 11am to 1am, Thursdays to Saturdays, from Dh50 for adults; from Dh30 for children younger than 12, Marina Eye, Corniche Breakwater, Abu Dhabi, www.visitabudhabi.ae __________________________ Daily, ongoing Visit Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi and immerse yourself in a variety of themed lands featuring popular characters from cartoons and films including The Flintstones , The Jetsons , Batman and Superman . The indoor amusement park has something for everyone with 29 rides, interactive attractions, live entertainment, restaurants and retail stores. 10am to 9pm, from Dh295, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.wbworldabudhabi.com __________________________ Daily, ongoing Visit Yas Waterworld and enjoy all the fun that the more than 40 rides, slides and attractions offer, including a tube ride down Slithers Slides, the action-packed wadi ride of Yadi Yas, a six-lane race of Sebag, and bodyboarding on the endless wave at Rush Rider. There are restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines, souvenir shops, a rollercoaster, the Amwaj Wave Pool, special events and more. 10am to 5pm, from Dh250, Yas Waterworld, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.yaswaterworld.com __________________________ Daily, ongoing Ferrari World Abu Dhabi features 37 Ferrari-themed rides and attractions including rollercoasters, midway games, remote-control challenge, simulators, driving experiences, shows, character appearances and more. Plus, enjoy the Italian and international restaurants, and shop in the Ferrari retail stores with products and memorabilia. 10am to 8pm, from Dh295, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com __________________________ Until Monday, September 30 Visit Qasr Al Watan and see a new exhibition that features historical treasures from ancient Mexico on display in the library. Codices of Mexico: The Old Books of the New World brings a number of priceless pre-Hispanic works dating from the 3rd to the 16th century to the region. The treasures featured in the exhibition are among the most significant sources of information about the ancient cultures of Mexico, preserving the ancestral wisdom of the native peoples of the nation. 10am to 8pm, free, Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi, 600 544442, www.qasralwatan.ae __________________________ Until Sunday, October 6 See a selection of artworks from the collection of Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism that embodies the meaning of popular culture and its relationship with the city. The works include Middle Eastern, European and American pop art inspired by city themes ranging from advertising, consumer goods, music, art, technology. Pictured: Dipstick by Jeff Koons 9am to 8pm, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 02 657 5800. www.manaratalsaadiyat.ae __________________________ Until Sunday, October 13 Visit Warehouse421, where Emirati visual artist Maitha Abdalla presents Hallowed, a film installation that focuses on social commentaries. Explore the human condition in narrative form, specifically the idea of emptiness, as a place or a feeling, and the transformation through the stages of memory, waiting and rebirth. 10am-8pm Tuesdays to Sundays (closed Mondays), Warehouse421, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, www.warehouse421.ae __________________________ Until Monday, October 28 Visit the touring exhibition The Unseen by Emirati photographer Yousef Al Habshi, which features 27 macro photography images of battle and suspense. See artistic extreme close-ups of tiny subjects — a world not normally visible to humans — that focus on the defence mechanisms of insects. The artist will be on hand to teach masterclasses to beginners and children. Open 9am to 8pm daily, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 02 657 5800, manaratalsaadiyat.ae __________________________ Until Sunday, November 24 See the exhibition Community & Critique: SEAF 2018/19 Cohort 6 show at Warehouse421 as 15 members of the Salama bint Hamdan Emerging Artists Fellowship present their artworks created after a 10-month development programme. The emerging artists, all from the UAE, will take part in a talk to discuss their experiences on the day of the opening. It will focus on the value of constructive language as a tool in the artistic process. 10am-8pm Tuesdays to Sundays (closed Mondays), Warehouse421, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, www.warehouse421.ae __________________________ Thursday, September 19 to Saturday, December 7 See the exhibition Rendezvous in Paris: Picasso, Chagall, Modigliani & Co (1900-1939) and experience Paris in the roaring twenties, when artists from across Europe came together to express themselves, resulting in a wave of innovative art. There are more than 80 works presented for the first time in the Middle East, including Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Juan Gris, Constantin Brancusi, Tamara de Lempicka and more. A programme of cultural activities will accompany the exhibition, including workshops and musical performances. Pictured: Man from Touraine by Juan Gris 10am to 8pm, Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 10am to 10pm on Thursdays and Fridays, from Dh63, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 600 56 55 66, www.louvreabudhabi.ae __________________________ Until Saturday, December 7 See the exhibition Speculative Landscapes, curated by NYUAD Art Gallery executive director Maya Allison and featuring works by four UAE artists that explore our environment. Each artist ponders the question: How do organisms, human or other, create, survive and inhabit our natural, artificial and virtual worlds? Noon to 8pm, Mondays to Saturdays (closed on Sundays), NYUAD Art Gallery, NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, www.nyuad-artgallery.org __________________________ Until Sunday, December 15 Visit the exhibition Najat Makki: Luminescence, which features contemporary, experimental artworks that reference geographical and historic influences and are hung from the ceiling of the atrium. There will be a public programme of artist talks, workshops, masterclasses, tours, film screenings and more, including a community exhibition on the first floor by 19 Emirati artists. Their works are dedicated to Makki and presented in appreciation of the visual artist's evolution. 9am to 7pm, Saturdays to Thursdays; noon to 10pm on Fridays, Cultural Foundation, Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi, culturalfoundation.ae __________________________ Until July 2020 See the interactive exhibition A Costume Adventure at The Children’s Museum at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Children aged four to 10 can create a digital avatar that they dress with accessories as well as trying on replica costumes based on artwork in the museum. Enjoy the reading area, where you can look for hidden messages in the artworks. A toddler space is available for children under three, with costumes, games and activities. 10am to 8pm, Saturdays to Wednesdays (closed Mondays); 10am to 10pm, Thursdays and Fridays, free entry with museum entrance ticket, Children’s Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, www.louvreabudhabi.ae __________________________

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