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.
Thursday 1 October
Catch Ryan Reynolds at LIVEX
Start October with fresh ideas at LIVEX, Abu Dhabi’s Liveability and Investment Exhibition. Taking place at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, the event brings together more than 100 speakers to explore the forces shaping tomorrow’s cities, from culture and education to energy and health. Actor, producer and entrepreneur Ryan Reynolds features among the announced speakers across the three-day programme. Browse the agenda, discover new projects and hear different perspectives on the capital’s future. Check individual session timings before planning your visit.
Where: ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.livex-global.com
Friday 2 October
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
Satuday 3 October
Partner Listing: See Ayman Zbib at Byblos Sur Mer
Make a late-night date with Byblos Sur Mer as Lebanese singer Ayman Zbib takes the stage on Saturday, 3 October 2026. Pair the restaurant’s signature Lebanese flavours with an evening of live music, as favourite Arabic classics provide the soundtrack to your Saturday night. Gather your friends, settle in for dinner and get ready to sing along as the performance gets underway from 10:30pm. With food, music and a lively atmosphere on the menu, there’s every reason to linger a little longer.
Where: Byblos Sur Mer, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 3 October at 10:30pm
Contact: www.abudhabi.intercontinental.com
Sunday 4 October
Enjoy Golden Hour at Isabel Mayfair
Make time for an afternoon aperitif at Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi, where the Golden Hour offer provides a tempting excuse to linger. Set within The Galleria Al Maryah Island, the restaurant pairs cocktails with Mediterranean-inspired dishes in elegant surroundings. Order Tuna Tartare, Grilled Octopus or Angus Beef Tartare as you catch up with friends and ease into the evening. Whether you’re winding down after work or starting a night out, this is a stylish spot to settle in and sip.
Where: Isabel Mayfair, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 12pm to 3pm
Contact: www.isabelabudhabi.com
Monday 5 October
Make lunch a Japanese affair 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
Contact: www.nirirestaurant.com
Tuesday 6 October
Get your culture fix at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Spend an afternoon tracing connections between cultures at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Set within Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum brings together artworks and artefacts that explore shared human stories across civilisations. The building deserves your attention, too: architect Jean Nouvel’s latticed dome filters sunlight into the celebrated “rain of light”. Take your time in the galleries, then step outside to appreciate the architecture and waterfront setting. It’s a rewarding outing whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another look.
Where: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Al Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 10am to 6:30pm
Contact http://platinumlist.net
Wednesday 7 October
Stay out late at Zuma’s night brunch
Who says brunch belongs to the weekend? Zuma’s Wednesday night brunch gives you a reason to head out midweek, pairing a sharing-style Japanese menu with free-flowing drinks and a live DJ. Settle in for sushi, starters and signature mains as the evening gathers pace at the restaurant’s Al Maryah Island address. With three beverage packages to choose from, you can tailor the night to your plans. Round up your dinner companions and make Wednesday feel a little more like Friday. AED 395 (soft beverages), AED 495 (house beverages) and AED 645 (premium beverages)
Where: Zuma, The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Wednesdays from 9pm until late
Contact: www.zumarestaurant.com
Thursday 8 October
Discover the UAE’s story at Zayed National Museum
Make room in your cultural calendar for Zayed National Museum, dedicated to the UAE’s history and the legacy of its Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Located in Saadiyat Cultural District, the landmark combines distinctive falcon-wing architecture with galleries exploring the nation’s heritage. Give yourself time to follow the stories behind the exhibits and consider the people, traditions and ideas that have shaped the country. It’s an opportunity to see the capital through the lens of its past.
Where: Zayed National Museum, Al Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 10am to 8pm
Contact: https://zayednationalmuseum.ae
Friday 9 October
Feast at Berenjak Abu Dhabi
Discover Persian flavours at Berenjak Abu Dhabi, the capital’s new arrival from London. Spanning two floors, the restaurant pairs dark oak seating, aged brass tables and hand-painted details with an open kitchen centred on the mangal grill. Take a seat at the four-person chef’s table or explore a menu rooted in family recipes. Highlights include black chickpea hummus with sunflower seed tahini, smoky Kashk-e Bademjoon and Koobideh Kabab, made with ground lamb, onion and black pepper, then grilled over the mangal.
Where: Berenjak, The House, Zayed The First Street, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 12pm to 11:30pm
Contact: @berenjak.uae
Saturday 10 October
Spend an evening with the UAE National Orchestra
Put live orchestral music on your Saturday agenda as the UAE National Orchestra takes to the stage at Etihad Arena. Presented as part of Abu Dhabi Festival’s Abu Dhabi Stage programme, the concert brings the ensemble to one of Yas Island’s biggest entertainment venues. Settle into your seat, leave the week behind and enjoy the experience of hearing musicians perform together on this scale. For regular concertgoers and curious newcomers alike, it’s a chance to make music the evening’s focus.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 10 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Sunday 11 October
Partner Listing: Laugh out loud with Morgan Jay
Morgan Jay is bringing The Goofy Guy Tour to Abu Dhabi. The viral comedian and musician will perform at Etihad Arena on Yas Island on Saturday, 11 October 2026, delivering a show that blends stand-up comedy, live music, improv and spontaneous crowd work. Presented by Live Nation Middle East in partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi and Miral, with FACT Magazine as official media partner, the event adds another major international name to the capital’s comedy calendar. Known for his quick wit, sing-alongs and playful audience interactions, Morgan Jay returns to the UAE following his appearance at Dubai Comedy Festival.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 11 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Monday 12 October
Book a French feast at Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard
Bring a little French flair to Monday evening at Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard. Set within Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, the restaurant pairs an elegant creekside setting with the chef’s contemporary take on classic French cooking. Menu highlights include La Soupe à l’Oignon, U7 Jumbo Prawn and Roasted Half Canadian Lobster, offering plenty to discuss over dinner. Whether you’re marking an occasion or simply giving the working week a more appetising start, this is a table worth making time for.
Where: Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Khor Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Saturday, from 6pm to 11pm
Contact: www.bordeauabudhabi.com
Tuesday 13 October
Step inside Qasr Al Watan
Go beyond the grand exterior at Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi’s working Presidential Palace and cultural landmark. Inside, ornate halls and intricate architectural details set the scene for exhibitions exploring the UAE’s governance, heritage and traditions. Take time to look beyond the decorative flourishes and discover the stories of diplomacy, knowledge and national identity presented throughout the palace. With so much to absorb, this is a visit best enjoyed at an unhurried pace. Keep your camera ready for those remarkable interiors.
Where: Qasr Al Watan, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 10am to 5:30pm
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Wednesday 14 October
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
When: Daily from 10am to 10pm
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Thursday 15 October
Grab a queue-worthy Pastry from bkry
FACT award-winning bkry opens at The Arcades within Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club this October, giving the capital a taste of Dubai’s popular bakery. Exclusive additions include a Coconut Croissant, Chocolate Peanut Caramel Babka and Korean Chicken Sando, alongside artisanal pastries and coffee. A dedicated Grab & Go selection caters to busy mornings with breakfast bowls, wraps and sandwiches. Inside, warm timber, terrazzo finishes and olive-toned seating frame communal tables and an open bakery counter, putting the pastry-making process in the spotlight.
Where: bkry, The Arcades, Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @bkry.space
Friday 16 October
Explore the Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi takes visitors on a journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history. Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum blends science, storytelling and discovery through immersive galleries and remarkable exhibits. Highlights include Stan the T-Rex, a 25-metre blue whale, rare meteorites and regional prehistoric species. Designed to inspire curiosity in visitors of all ages, the museum explores the story of life on Earth while placing Abu Dhabi within a wider global and natural context.
Where: Natural History Museum, Al Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 10am to 6:30pm
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Saturday 17 October
See Tamer Hosny and Tamer Ashour live
Two of Egypt’s best-known voices share the bill as Tamer Hosny and Tamer Ashour arrive at Etihad Arena. Hosny brings his charismatic stage presence and catalogue of romantic favourites, while Ashour adds emotive vocals and melodies that have earned him a devoted following. Together, they promise an evening built around songs that resonate across generations. Gather your fellow fans, brush up on the lyrics and head to Yas Island for a Saturday night with plenty of feeling and familiar tunes.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 17 October 2026
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Sunday 18 October
Enjoy a French Riviera-style brunch
Give your weekend a French accent with La Vie en Rose at the FACT award-winning La Petite Maison. The restaurant’s signature brunch pairs sharing-style dishes with French classics, creating an occasion that encourages you to settle in and take your time. Gather friends around the table, explore the menu together and enjoy the relaxed social atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating or simply catching up over good food, this is an appealing way to spend a leisurely weekend afternoon in the capital. AED 390 (soft beverages), AED 465 (house beverages) and AED 640 (champagne)
Where: La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Sundays from 12pm to 4.30pm
Contact: https://lpmrestaurants.com
Monday 19 October
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
Tuesday 20 October
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
Wednesday 21 October
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
Thursday 22 October
Follow the FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi
Find fresh inspiration for your next restaurant reservation as the FACT Dining Awards return to Abu Dhabi. Celebrating the restaurants, chefs, bars and hospitality teams shaping the capital’s dining scene, the awards recognise talent across a wide range of categories. FACT’s independent critics and public voting contribute to the results, bringing expert opinion and readers’ favourites into the conversation. Keep an eye on the winners, revisit a familiar favourite or discover somewhere new to add to your dining wish list.
Where: Ilios Pool Club, Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://diningawards.factmagazines.com
Friday 23 October
Wintess Power Slap
Power Slap returns to Abu Dhabi on Friday, 23 October, with a title rematch at Space42 Arena. Part of Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, the event sees Dayne “Da Hawaiian Hitman” Viernes defend his Super Heavyweight crown against Dumpling, following their five-round encounter in 2025. The card also features Dakota McGregor against Reiley Montoya, while Britain’s Louis Robinson faces India’s Jujhar Singh. With championship ambitions and unbeaten records in play, fight fans have another date to add to their October calendars.
Where: Space 42 Arena, Al Raha, Abu Dhabi
When: Friday, 23 October 2026
Contact: www.powerslap.com
Saturday 24 October
Experience fight night on Yas Island
Make a night of the action as Abu Dhabi Showdown Week brings mixed martial arts to Etihad Arena. For fans, the appeal goes beyond individual bouts: there’s the anticipation before the first walkout, the roar of the crowd and the drama as each contest unfolds. At the top of the card, UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski will defend his title against undefeated No. 1-ranked contender Movsar Evloev. The co-main event is another championship clash, with bantamweight champion Petr Yan facing No. 1 contender Merab Dvalishvili for the third time. Whether you follow the sport closely or want to experience an arena fight night, Yas Island provides the setting for an eventful Saturday.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 24 October 2026
Contact: www.etihadarena.ae
Sunday 25 October
Partner Listing: Have a laugh with Russell Peters
Russell Peters is heading back to Abu Dhabi, marking a major comedy moment for the capital this autumn. Presented by Live Nation Middle East in partnership with FACT Magazine, the show promises a no-holds-barred night that has made Russell Peters a household name across continents. Whether he’s dissecting everyday life or turning audience interactions into the punchline, his sets are famously unpredictable, delivered with the pace and precision of someone who has spent decades perfecting his craft. He made history as the first comedian to sell out Toronto’s Air Canada Centre, London’s O2 Arena and New York’s Madison Square Garden, cementing his status as a global touring force long before streaming specials became the norm.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Sunday, 25 October 2026
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Monday 26 October
Grab a burger 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 27 October
Dine on Emirati cuisine at Falwa
Emirati cooking takes centre stage at Falwa, chef and restaurateur Faisal Alharmoodi’s new concept at Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts on Jubail Island. The restaurant draws on local traditions while giving familiar flavours a contemporary interpretation, with charcoal cooking and Emirati ingredients running throughout the menu. Highlights include Lamb Biryani layered with saffron, hashwa and slow-cooked lamb, alongside charcoal-grilled Hammour finished with an Emirati gazpacho. The Focaccia Khameer Hamsa Shrimp combines crisp khameer-inspired bread with spiced prawns, while Falwa’s take on Aseeda incorporates carrots, aromatic spices and local ghee. Even the name has cultural significance, deriving from the Arabic word for “little horse” and reflecting the restaurant’s equestrian setting.
Where: Falwa, Al Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @falwa.uae
Wednesday 28 October
Explore Jubail Mangrove Park
For a closer look at Abu Dhabi’s coastal ecosystem, head to Jubail Mangrove Park. A 2.3-kilometre boardwalk snakes across the water and through dense mangroves, passing viewing platforms where birds, fish and other wildlife can often be spotted below. Ranger-led walks add an educational element, while kayaking, electric dragon boats, sunrise paddles and night-glow experiences take visitors onto the water. It is particularly beautiful when the tide rises around the mangrove roots.
Where: Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://platinumlist.net
Thursday 29 October
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 30 October
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
Saturday 31 October
Celebrate Halloween in the capital
Give Halloween an Abu Dhabi twist with an evening of costumes, treats and spooky fun. Start with pumpkin decorating or trick or treating, before gathering friends for a costume party, complete with themed snacks. Prefer a quieter celebration? Dim the lights, queue up a horror film and settle in with popcorn. Whether you favour family fun or fright night, make Saturday, 31 October marvellously memorable.
Where: Various locations across Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.factmagazines.com