October in Abu Dhabi just got seriously exciting!!!
Abu Dhabi, the capital city, has something different to offer to everyone, whether you are planning to travel to Abu Dhabi, or you need some family friendly things to do in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is providing luxury and adventure in equal measures, with the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center and Ferrari World, an excellent dining experience at Jumeirah hotels, and Anantara resorts, and much more.
This week’s lineup features incredible brunches in Abu Dhabi serving everything from traditional Emirati cuisine to authentic Indian cuisine, refined Japanese cuisine, spicy Thai cuisine, aromatic Lebanese cuisine, and classic Italian cuisine. The city has a lively Corniche, a busy Yas Island, and a cultural Al Saadiyat Island that is the ideal setting for the best experiences.
Whether you are into free things, special events in Abu Dhabi, unique concerts, like The Smashing Pumpkins and Andre Rieu, and thrilling activities in Abu Dhabi, such as UFC 321 or basketball games, we have a list of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi this week to help you to maximize your time in this amazing destination.
Read More: Things to do in Dubai this weekend
Free Things to Do
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center
One of the most magnificent attractions in Abu Dhabi, this architectural masterpiece welcomes visitors free of charge. It is a magnificent mosque with a white marble building, elaborate Islamic patterns, and a capacity of accommodating more than 40,000 worshipers. It has guided tours, and the mosque is especially gorgeous at sunset. Also, it is important to dress decently and follow the cultural rules.
Corniche Beach
Perfect for family friendly things to do in Abu Dhabi, this pristine stretch of coastline offers crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. The beach has walking and cycling tracks, playgrounds, and cafes. It is the perfect picnic, water sports, and the sunset view place over the Arabian Gulf. The beach is clean and has showering machines and lifeguards.
Umm Al Emarat Park
A green oasis in the heart of the city, this park offers various themed gardens, walking trails, and recreational activities in Abu Dhabi. These features are the Wisdom Garden, the Formal Garden, and the Adventure Play areas. Certain events and workshops are held in the park regularly, and therefore, it is family-friendly. Entry to most areas is free things, with some attractions in Abu Dhabi requiring nominal fees.
Founder’s Memorial
This interactive exhibition commemorating the founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed, has attractive gardens and interactive exhibitions. The Constellation artwork is also part of the memorial, and it produces a powerful 3D portrait with the help of geometrical forms. It is a reflective and educational experience, where one gets to know the history and future of the UAE.
Festivals and Celebrations
Art Here 2025: Shadows
The event will be held at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and it has a theme of Shadows that is presented through the use of contemporary art between October 11 and 28. The fifth phase of this cooperation with Richard Mille presents the works of more than 400 proposals of GCC, Japan, and the MENA region artists. The exhibition explores the relationship between light, recollection and change.
GCF Private Investment for Climate Conference
This 2-day flagship event in Abu Dhabi, scheduled at ADNEC Centre, will involve international representatives of both the private and the public sectors. It is the 7th conference that aims to open up investment opportunities that can have a positive impact on people and the planet. It is a climate action and sustainable development platform. It will be held from 8-9 October 2025.
NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025
Enjoy the basketball excitement at Etihad Arena on October 2nd and 4th, with the New York Knicks vs the Philadelphia 76ers. The events include city-wide events in Abu Dhabi, fan events, and hospitality services. This things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend are pre-game events, meet-and-greets, and basketball clinics for fans of all ages.
Diwali Celebrations Across the City
The Festival of Lights is celebrated in several locations between October 1 and 27. Sahha proposes a classic Diwali buffet (AED 260), whereas Zeera by Buddha-Bar suggests a refined set menu with a certain theme-based decoration. A special Diwali dinner buffet with authentic Indian cuisine and festive moods are also offered in Flavours Restaurant in Al Ain and Royal Rose Hotel.
Brunch Offers and Dining Experiences
Guilt-Free Kitchen Party at Andaz Capital Gate
This plant-based brunch turns into an entertainment experience on Saturdays with live kitchen DJs and Instagram-ready food. Beginning with AED 375 of guilt-free drinks, the experience consists of sharing style dishes, mains, and desserts. The venue features food as a performance that establishes the high and lighthearted atmosphere of dining among the best brunch offers in the city.
Brunch at the Park – Park Hyatt Saadiyat
The Cafe also offers oysters, caviar, and sushi, which are well-cooked on Saturdays and flame-grilled meat on Saturdays starting at AED 415. The brunches in Abu Dhabi feature live cooking stations, Middle Eastern specialties, and Camp Hyatt entertainment for children. This is one of the best places to spend a weekend, with live entertainment and a classy vibe.
Saturday Brunch at Mexican Restaurant
Every Saturday between 1 PM and 5 PM, come and savor the real Mexican tastes with warm spices and traditional dishes. Sunday Funday Buy One Get One Free drinks, 20% off on food, and happy hour all day are also available at the venue. There are special themed nights like Margarita Monday and Taco Tuesday, where one can get as many as one wants.
Taste of Shangri-La
During the whole month of October in various Shangri-La locations, one may have either the classic Cantonese dim sum at Shang Palace (AED 280) or the contemporary French foods at Bord Eau (AED 600 with wine pairing). There will be handmade food, wine, and luxurious arrangements that will celebrate the culinary art of two cultural heritages, featuring amazing brunch offers for visitors.
Events and Entertainment
UFC 321: Aspinall vs Gane
At Etihad Arena on October 25, world-class mixed martial arts will be on display. Prices of the tickets will be between AED 495 and AED 14,695, and hospitality boxes are available as a premium experience. The event features championship fights and represents one of the biggest things to do in Abu Dhabi this month. The restaurant provides tableless services and high-end food.
Sebastian Maniscalco: It Ain’t Right Tour
The first UAE performance of the American comedy giant is on October 8 in Etihad Arena. Maniscalco has an excellent sense of timing and comedy stories that can be easily related to, and he uses them to do comedy about the absurdity of modern life. Mobile phone usage is not permitted inside the hall. Child below 16 years needs an adult supervision.
Al Zeer Salem Theater Play
This is a legendary Arab epic performed on the stage with drama, poetry, and music in from October 3-4 at the National Theatre. It is a traditional story mixed with some modern artistic elements, with famous actors such as Salloum Haddad and Abed Fahd. The prices start with Bronze (AED 183) and Platinum (AED 631). The venue has smart casual dress code.
Mid-Term Camp at Little Acres
October 13-17, from 1 pm to 5 pm, offers exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi for children. Themes in daily life include Crafty Creatures, making volcanoes, golf champions, treasure hunters, and gardening geniuses. Other activities include slime making and arts and crafts. Restricted to 25 kids with charges between AED 4 and 130 per day.
Concerts and Musical Performances
The Smashing Pumpkins – Rock Invasion 2025
October 9 at Etihad Arena marks the band’s first UAE show. With over 30 million albums sold and multiple Grammy Awards, Billy Corgan, James Iha, and Jimmy Chamberlin bring their alternative rock legacy to Abu Dhabi. The rare Middle East performance starts from AED 338 with floor standing for ages 14+ only. This is among the most anticipated concerts and nightlife in Abu Dhabi this month.
André Rieu & Johann Strauss Orchestra
The “King of Waltz” is returning to Etihad Arena on October 18 after a historic 2024 success. The performance includes opera gems, film music, ballads, romantics, and waltzes. With the sale of 40+ million albums and showmanship largely in his charismatic persona, Rieu is sure to deliver an all-encompassing musical experience with spectacular visuals and elaborate costumes.
Ibrahim Maalouf and Trumpets of Michel-Ange
The French-Lebanese trumpeter displays his innovative quarter-tone trumpet at the Cultural Foundation on October 31. The show combines the Arab musical tradition with jazz, classical, and modern effects. The concert will produce dense soundscapes with meditative tunes and strong, rhythmic pieces beginning with AED 260, making it one of the top concerts for music lovers.
Al Shami Concert
October 11 at Space42 Arena features this cross-cultural artist blending Arabic melodies with Western sounds. Known for hits like “Doctor” and “Wein,” Al Shami has captivated audiences across the Middle East and Europe. The concert promises infectious energy and genre-bending sounds starting from AED 203, perfect for those seeking nightlife in Abu Dhabi entertainment.
Staycation Offers and Hotel Deals
Jumeirah One Packages
There are Urban Escape, Wellness Oasis, Family Moments, and Serene Getaway packages of multiple offers that are open until December 31, 2025. The staycation in Abu Dhabi options feature flexible cancellation policies and access to world-class amenities. Jumeirah hotels offer high-quality accommodation services, including spa, restaurants, and beach access, making it perfect for those who travel to Abu Dhabi region.
Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
AED 2,552.47, luxurious packages consist of spa credits, breakfast daily, and flexible booking. The Stay Longer Special is also 20% savings, and the Couples Serenity deals with wellness and rejuvenation. The retreat offers Mediterranean luxury with exclusive services and amazing staycation offers.
Radisson Blu Yas Island Theme Park Package
The staycation in Abu Dhabi involve day passes to SeaWorld, Warner Bros World, Ferrari World, or Yas Waterworld. The package includes an international buffet breakfast, free transfer, beach access, and Wi-Fi. Make a reservation of more than one night so that you have access to more than one park on the day that you stay.
Diwali Stay Offer at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche
From October 15-31, there is 20% off at the Best Available Rates with promotional code DIWALI25 at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. The Corniche luxury hotel offers luxurious accommodation with views of the Arabian Gulf. The offer includes the Festival of Lights in the warm hospitality and high-quality facilities in the center of Abu Dhabi, featuring exceptional staycation offers.
Whether you’re looking for things to do in Abu Dhabi with cultural significance, thrilling entertainment, or relaxing experiences, this October presents an incredible variety of options. From free things like the Grand Mosque to premium things to do in Abu Dhabi like UFC fights, the city delivers unforgettable moments for every type of traveler seeking the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.
FAQs
Q1. What are the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi in October 2025?
Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Corniche Beach, Umm Al Emarat Park, and the Founder’s Memorial.
Q2. Are there big concerts in Abu Dhabi this October?
Yes, The Smashing Pumpkins, André Rieu, Ibrahim Maalouf, and Al Shami are performing.
Q3. What sports events are happening in Abu Dhabi this October?
NBA Abu Dhabi Games and UFC 321 headline this month’s sports events.
Q4. Where can I enjoy brunch in Abu Dhabi this October?
Try Park Hyatt Saadiyat, Andaz Capital Gate, Shangri-La, or Mexican Restaurant brunches.
Q5. Are there cultural events in Abu Dhabi this October?
Yes, Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Art Here 2025: Shadows and Al Zeer Salem Theater Play.
Q6. What staycation offers are available in Abu Dhabi this October?
Jumeirah One, Anantara Santorini, Radisson Blu Yas Island, and Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche.
Q7. What unique activities can tourists do in Abu Dhabi this October?
Enjoy luxury brunches, cultural shows, concerts, UFC fights, and Diwali celebrations.
Q8. Is Abu Dhabi good for nightlife in October 2025?
Yes, concerts, comedy shows, and themed restaurant nights make nightlife exciting.
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