Here’s how to make the most of the month ahead.
It’s the start of a new month, which means it’s time to fill up your cultural calendar. As autumn arrives, the capital comes alive. September is packed with excitement as the new month rolls in, featuring a variety of sporting events and culinary experiences. Plus, there are concerts and cultural events. Here are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi in September 2026.
Tuesday 1 September
Partner Listing: Explore ADIHEX 2026
ADIHEX 2026 brings the UAE’s rich cultural heritage to life through a packed programme of hunting, equestrian and traditional activities. Visitors can explore exhibitions, watch live demonstrations and enjoy performances that spotlight customs passed down through generations. Interactive attractions add to the experience, while exhibitors showcase products and services that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. Whether you are passionate about falconry, horses and outdoor pursuits or simply keen to learn more about Emirati culture, ADIHEX offers an engaging introduction to the traditions that continue to shape the nation today.
Where: ADIHEX 2026, ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi
When: 28 August to 6 September 2026, from 10am to 10pm
Contact: https://www.adihex.com
Wednesday 2 September
Try the Rhutab Qahwa Cake at Emirates Palace
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is celebrating the UAE’s rhutab season with a special Rhutab Qahwa Cake. Created with fresh rhutab, coffee and cardamom, the dessert is a modern take on traditional Emirati flavours. It is part of The Silk Fold by ETHR Café, a summer collaboration celebrating local culture, craftsmanship and culinary traditions.
Where: The Silk Fold by ETHR Café, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily until 4 September 2026
Contact: www.mandarinoriental.com
Thursday 3 September
Take a lunch break at 1927
1927 is introducing a new daytime experience combining lunch with its unique Listening Room. Guests can choose between a three-course Business Lunch or a Light Lunch, with dishes created by Executive Culinary Director Samuele Crestale. The Listening Room also offers curated music, making it a relaxed space for meetings, work or an afternoon break.
Where: 1927, CinemaCity, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 12pm to 5pm
Price: From AED 120
Contact: www.cinemacity.ae
Friday 4 September
Enjoy Golden Hour at Isabel Mayfair
Make the most of the afternoon at Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi with its Golden Hour offer. Guests can enjoy cocktails while exploring the restaurant’s Mediterranean-inspired menu. Dishes including Tuna Tartare, Grilled Octopus and Angus Beef Tartare are available to enjoy in the elegant surroundings of The Galleria Al Maryah Island.
Where: Isabel Mayfair, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 12pm to 3pm
Contact: www.isabelabudhabi.com
Saturday 5 September
Partner Listing: Try the new menu at Kai Beach
Kai Beach has refreshed its à la carte offering with a menu that pairs Mediterranean flavours with Asian-inspired touches. Highlights include Sea Bass Ceviche, Salmon Poke Bowl and Burrata and Heirloom Tomato Salad, alongside heartier plates such as Surf and Turf, Australian Ribeye and the Kai Seafood Mixed Grill. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and elevated sandwiches add plenty of variety, while playful desserts and a dedicated children’s menu make it suitable for family dining. Designed with relaxed beachfront days in mind, the new menu moves easily between lighter, nutrient-rich dishes and indulgent comfort favourites, all served with the sea just steps away.
Where: Kai Beach, Shati Al Sa’diyat Street, Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 10am to 7pm
Contact: http://kaibeachsaadiyat.com
Sunday 6 September
Enjoy a business lunch at NIRI
Winning Restaurant of the Year for three years in a row at the FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi, NIRI Restaurant & Bar is led by a trifecta of talent: Managing Director Imad Obeid, Head Chef and sushi master Yasuyuki Takemoto, and Chef Omaka Orubu. The bold dining concept at Mamsha Al Saadiyat serves a three-course Japanese business lunch designed for diners seeking a refined midday experience. Make like FACT’s Editor-in-Chief and order the spicy salmon maki, grilled skewers and beef katsu don. AED 99 per person.
Where: NIRI Restaurant & Bar, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 12pm to 5pm
Price: AED 99 per person.
Contact: www.nirirestaurant.com
Monday 7 September
Visit Zayed National Museum
Zayed National Museum opens on Eid Al Etihad as a landmark dedicated to the UAE’s history, culture and the legacy of Sheikh Zayed. With more than 3,000 artefacts, immersive galleries and falcon-wing architectural design, the museum offers a rich narrative of the nation’s journey.
Where: Zayed National Museum, Al Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 10am to 8pm
Contact: https://zayednationalmuseum.ae
Tuesday 8 September
Feast at Berenjak Abu Dhabi
Berenjak is officially opening in Abu Dhabi, bringing one of London’s most talked-about Persian restaurants to the capital. Set across two floors, Berenjak Abu Dhabi has been designed to feel intimate and rooted in Persian heritage. Inside, guests will find dark oak seating, aged brass tabletops, and timber-veneer ceilings, finished with Elodie chandeliers and hand-painted details. At the centre of the experience is the open kitchen, where diners can watch the chefs at work and catch a live view of the mangal, flanked by a four-seat chef’s table set on mosaic tiles. The menu celebrates the depth of Persian cuisine, drawing on family recipes and time-honoured cooking traditions. Signature dishes include hummus made with black chickpeas and sunflower seed tahini, Kashk-e Bademjoon with charred aubergine, garlic, onions, kashk, mint oil and walnuts, and the much-loved Koobideh Kabab, made with ground lamb, onion and black pepper before being grilled over the mangal.
Where: Berenjak, The House, Zayed The First Street, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @berenjak.uae
Wednesday 9 September
Enjoy the night brunch at Zuma
Make your midweek plans more exciting with Zuma’s night brunch. Enjoy a sharing-style menu featuring sushi, starters, and signature mains, along with free-flowing drinks. A live DJ keeps the energy going, creating a lively atmosphere that feels more like a night out than a traditional dinner. Available on Wednesdays, from 9pm onwards.
Where: Zuma, The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Wednesdays from 9pm
Price: AED 395 (soft beverages), AED 495 (house beverages) and AED 645 (premium beverages)
Contact: www.zumarestaurant.com
Thursday 10 September
Relax at FACT’s Spa of the Year 2026
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi feels built for top honours, which is why it is poised to be named FACT’s Spa of the Year in Abu Dhabi for 2026. What sets it apart is its sense of place. Rather than offering generic luxury, the sanctuary draws on Moroccan influences, Oriental healing traditions and Arabesque therapies to create something far more distinctive. The royal hammam is the defining experience, while nine private treatment suites, steam and sauna facilities, and the wider palace setting elevate every visit into a full ritual of escape. In a crowded field, this is the rare spa that feels both grand and genuinely transportive.
Where: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 11am to 11pm
Contact: www.mandarinoriental.com
Friday 11 September
Meet the stars at MEFCC
Middle East Film & Comic Con returns to Abu Dhabi this September, bringing a packed weekend of celebrity appearances, cosplay, gaming and comic culture to ADNEC. This year’s star-studded lineup includes John Cena, Simu Liu, Arden Cho, Charithra Chandran, Jacob Romero, Mackenyu and Pom Klementieff. Beyond the Meet the Stars sessions, visitors can explore the Comic Creators Club and Artist Alley, featuring major names from Marvel and DC, alongside regional talent. Cosplay Central hosts competitions and parades, with an AED 60,000 prize pool, while the Otaku District celebrates anime and K-pop. Gaming tournaments, tabletop experiences, collectibles and more than 400 brands, exhibitors, retailers and artists complete the three-day pop culture celebration.
Where: MEFCC, ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi
When: 11 to 13 September 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Saturday 12 September
Watch Paw Patrol live
PAW Patrol is bounding onto the stage with PAW Patrol Live! Heroes Unite, an action-packed family show featuring the much-loved pups. The live production follows Chase, Marshall, Skye and the rest of the team as they work together on a high-energy mission to save the day. Combining catchy music, colourful sets, special effects and plenty of audience-friendly moments, the show brings Adventure Bay to life for younger fans.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: 11 to 13 September 2026
Contact: www.etihadarena.ae
Sunday 13 September
Enjoy a French Riviera-style brunch
Experience refined French dining at the FACT award-winning La Petite Maison, with its signature La Vie en Rose brunch. This weekend experience features sharing-style dishes, gourmet classics, and a relaxed social atmosphere. It’s one of the most stylish brunch experiences in the capital for food lovers and lifestyle seekers.
Where: La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Sundays from 12pm to 4.30pm
Price: AED 390 (soft beverages), AED 465 (house beverages) and AED 640 (champagne)
Contact: https://lpmrestaurants.com
Monday 14 September
Visit TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is an immersive art destination spanning 17,000 square metres. The space encourages visitors to interact with large-scale digital installations that shift, respond and evolve in real time. Works such as Massless Suns and Dark Suns play with light, darkness and perception, while Levitation Void introduces gravity-defying forms that challenge the senses. Blurring the line between art, technology and experience, teamLab Phenomena offers one of Abu Dhabi’s most visually striking indoor attractions for culture lovers, families and curious visitors.
Where: TeamLab Phenomena, Al Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Tuesday 15 September
Partner Content: Try Market Kitchen’s business lunch
Make midday meetings more memorable at Market Kitchen at the Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi. Available from Monday to Friday, the Business Lunch brings together a selection of international dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients, followed by a tempting choice of desserts. Served in a relaxed setting, it’s an easy option for client meetings, colleague catch-ups or a leisurely lunch away from the office. AED 60 per person.
Where: Market Kitchen, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Street, Al Danah, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Friday from 12pm to 3pm
Contact: www.marketkitchenabudhabi.com
Wednesday 16 September
Explore LEGO at the Natural History Museum
Step into a playful journey through the natural world at Lego Shows Natural Brickstory. Explore themed zones that take visitors from ancient life on Earth to the wonders of space, with hands-on activities, creative trails, workshops and collaborative builds along the way. Visitors can also contribute to a community Lego model inspired by the UAE landscape, bringing the museum’s stories to life one brick at a time.
Where: Natural History Museum, Al Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 10am to 6:30pm
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Thursday 17 September
Experience Listening Nights at Saikindō
Located inside the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, Saikindō draws inspiration from Japan’s listening bars, where music and mixology share the spotlight. The bars’ weekly Listening Nights offer a music-led experience set within a Japanese-inspired hi-fi lounge. Guests can enjoy live DJs, analogue sound, city-inspired playlists, cocktails curated by Beverage Director Marco Corallo and a menu of sushi and robata dishes. Rich wooden panelling, bespoke acoustic treatments, embroidered wall coverings, and refined furnishings set an intimate yet social mood.
Where: Saikindō, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Thursdays from 8pm until midnight
Contact: @saikindo
Friday 18 September
Sleep at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi brings resort-style luxury to the banks of the Khor Al Maqta, with sweeping views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Inspired by Arabian architecture, the hotel features spacious rooms, private villas, landscaped gardens and a one-kilometre private beach. Guests can drift along the waterways by traditional abra, relax at CHI, The Spa, or dine across a collection of restaurants and lounges. Highlights include Sofra bld for international dining and Shang Palace for refined Chinese cuisine. Combining waterfront tranquillity with easy access to the city, it remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most elegant escapes.
Where: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.shangri-la.com
Saturday 19 September
Make a splash at Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld has expanded with 11 new slides and attractions, bringing the total count to over 70. With the UAE’s highest water slide, Matamir Drop, you’re guaranteed to satisfy your adrenaline rush in the most epic way possible. With jumping platforms, relaxing pools and much more, it’s the best place to be for all ages and a fun Saturday out.
Where: Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 11am to 7pm
Price: Tickets from AED 295
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Sunday 20 September
Hit the sand at Saadiyat Beach Club
The family-friendly Saadiyat Beach Club is located on a 9km stretch of Blue Flag-certified beach. Set along the powder-soft shoreline of Saadiyat Island, the venue pairs a private beach with turquoise waters, an infinity pool and chic cabanas that make all-day lounging feel suitably elevated. There is also a gym, spa, sauna and steam room, adding a wellness element to the experience. And if it’s good enough for the Hawksbill turtles, then it’s good enough for us. As this is a protected habitat, the little creatures may make an appearance, which helps this win cute points. Plus, the Mediterranean dishes at Safina add to the tropical vibe.
Where: Saadiyat Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 8am to 7:30pm
Contact: www.saadiyatbeachclub.ae
Monday 21 September
Dine at the brilliant Blue Restaurant
Blue is one of Saadiyat’s more interesting openings because it leans into understated coastal elegance. Diners can expect a garden overlooking the sea, a kitchen counter facing the chefs at work, and a menu shaped by seasonality, regional sourcing and Nordic preservation techniques. Head Chef Noah Muscat leads the team, while the kitchen draws on produce from Blue’s own Abu Dhabi farm. Dishes such as Citrus-cured Hamachi, Beef Tartare, Kofta Sandwich, and Grilled Wagyu Flank strike a balance between finesse and comfort, while desserts like Plum Tart keep the tone smart yet unfussy.
Where: Blue, Lilac 6, Mamsha Beach, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 12pm to midnight
Contact: https://restaurantblue.ae
Tuesday 22 September
Explore Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of the capital’s most iconic cultural landmarks. Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum showcases artworks and artefacts from across civilisations, displayed chronologically to highlight shared human stories. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the building is just as striking as the collection, with its latticed dome creating the famous “rain of light” effect. Alongside its galleries, the museum hosts exhibitions, film screenings and a children’s museum, making it a rewarding visit for all ages.
Where: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District, Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 1oam to 8:30pm
Contact: https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Wednesday 23 September
Enjoy afternoon tea at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Regional heritage shapes The Pearl Afternoon Tea Experience at Osmo Lounge and Bar. The menu arrives inside a pearl-shaped case, referencing the UAE’s maritime history while presenting a creative collection of sweet and savoury bites. Highlights include curried chicken and coconut sandwiches, mini lobster quiche, tuna rillette on a squid ink cracker and goat’s cheese with mango and lime. Desserts range from yuzu gianduja chocolate entremets and passion fruit savarin to pistachio and strawberry choux. Plain and fruit scones are served with clotted cream, lemon curd and strawberry jam. The package also includes a seasonal welcome drink, unlimited tea and coffee, plus Prosecco or mocktails. Available daily from noon to 11pm. AED 250 for two.
Where: Osmo Lounge & Bar, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 12pm to 11pm
Price: Prices from AED 250 for two
Contact: www.hilton.com
Thursday 24 September
Visit Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is both a working Presidential Palace and one of Abu Dhabi’s most impressive cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore grand halls, intricate interiors, landscaped gardens and exhibitions that highlight the UAE’s governance, heritage and traditions. More than a palace, the destination is designed as a centre of knowledge, offering insight into the country’s history, diplomacy and cultural identity. From its ornate architecture to its fascinating displays, Qasr Al Watan delivers a regal and educational indoor experience in the capital.
Where: Qasr Al Watan, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 11am to 6pm
Contact: https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Friday 25 September
Check into Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
Trade the skyline for sand dunes at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. By day, sink into your private temperature-controlled pool as the ochre dunes stretch endlessly around you. Come nightfall, the resort turns otherworldly—think camel rides beneath the stars, desert stargazing, and soulful wellness rituals that root you in the rhythms of the land. The Dune Villa Escape offers a secluded stay in a private pool villa, complete with uninterrupted desert views, cooling sunrise swims and personalised service from a dedicated Villa Host.
Where: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Mahdar Sahab, Liwa, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.anantara.com
Saturday 26 September
Catch K-POP FEVER
Get ready for a high-energy celebration of the world of K-pop, featuring 12 talented singers and dancers bringing some of the genre’s biggest hits to life. The concert-style show combines live vocals, dynamic choreography and fan-favourite songs inspired by iconic K-pop artists, creating an energetic experience packed with music, dance and Korean pop culture. Whether you’re a dedicated K-pop fan or discovering the genre for the first time, K-POP FEVER promises an exciting night of entertainment.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 26 September 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Sunday 27 September
Scale thrilling new heights
Located in Yas Mall, CLYMB 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.
Where: CLYMB Abu Dhabi, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 12pm to 9pm
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Monday 28 September
Dine at FLAVE by Chef Wali
Following its success in Dubai, FLAVE by Chef Wali has opened in Abu Dhabi’s Eastern Mangroves. The brilliant burger spot brings its no-fuss approach to the capital, focusing on bold flavours, premium ingredients and indulgent comfort food. Expect signatures such as the Millionaire burger with an Australian Wagyu beef patty, truffle aioli, caramelised onions and house pickles, alongside loaded Flave Fries, crispy sides and refreshing drinks. With waterfront views across the mangroves, the Abu Dhabi outpost offers a relaxed spot for walk-ins, late lunches and casual dinners.
Where: FLAVE by Chef Wali, Eastern Mangroves, Sheikh Zayed Street, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 10am to 3am
Contact: @flavedxb
Tuesday 29 September
Chill out at Snow Abu Dhabi
Prepare to chill out in the coolest place in town at Snow Abu Dhabi. It’s your ticket to escaping the scorching summer heat and stepping into a winter wonderland right in the middle of the desert. Get your snow gear ready, because this indoor snow park, located in Reem Mall, is packed with thrilling activities that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.
Where: Snow Abu Dhabi, Reem Mall, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 10am to 10pm
Contact: https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net
Wednesday 30 September
Visit Bubble Planet in Al Ain
Take the kids to Bubble Planet in Al Ain for an immersive experience filled with giant bubbles, interactive rooms and sensory activities. Designed for visitors of all ages, the attraction offers a playful day out for families and friends. With plenty of colourful spaces to explore, it is also a fun option for taking memorable photos.
Where: Al Ain Square, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
When: 28 August to 7 November 2026
Contact: https://fever.pxf.io/n424RV