Biggest annual Abu Dhabi events and festivals in 2025
The UAE capital hosts numerous annual events and festivals that attract millions of visitors from around the globe. These events always have huge followings, and tickets can sell out instantly. Often, tourists plan their vacations at specific times of year to ensure they can attend some of these spectacular events. Want to check out some of the best ones? Here you go!
SPORTS EVENTS
ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX 2025
Pre-registrations are open for the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025. As the season finale for the Formula 1 World Championship, this event promises thrilling on-track action and electrifying off-track entertainment. Don’t miss the after-race concerts featuring top artists and DJs, which will create an unforgettable experience.
- Ticket price: Please visit the official Abu Dhabi GP website for more details and pre-registration
- Date and timings: 5th to 7th December 2025
- Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island
- Contact: 800-927
Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX)
Looking for yearly events in Abu Dhabi 2025? If you’re a fan of horse and hunting shows, then the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) might be your thing. The mega event is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra region.
Some of the festival’s activities include drawing, horse grooming, falconry, hunting equipment, handicrafts and theatre performances for children. Food trucks will also serve yummy snacks.
- Date: 30th August to 7th September, 2025
- Location: ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-667-4230
TRIYAS CHALLENGE 2025
Next on our list of yearly events in Abu Dhabi is the 15th edition of the TriYAS Challenge. This ultimate triathlon experience invites first-timers and seasoned athletes to participate in exciting sports activities, including roller skating, swimming, biking, and running.
- Ticket price: Please visit the official page for registration and payment
- Date and timings: 8th February 2025
- Location: Yas Marina Circuit
- Contact: +971-2-444-8141
MUBADALA ABU DHABI OPEN 2025
Tennis fans rejoice! Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open WTA 500 is back for its third season in 2025. It is one of the most anticipated annual events in Abu Dhabi, with a status as a premier tournament on the global tennis calendar. A total of 28 players and 16 formidable teams will compete for the ultimate title.
- Ticket price: From AED 25
- Date and timings: 1st to 8th February 2025 | From 11:00 am
- Location: International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City
- Contact: +971-2-403-4200
Al Dhafrah Arabian Horse Championship
Looking for some of the most happening sports events in Abu Dhabi 2025? If you love equine sports, don’t miss the Al Dhafra Arabian Horse Championship.
The event is classified (C) by the European Arabian Horse Beauty Organization (ECAHO). Participation is open to all private stud owners in the UAE.
- Date and timings: 16th to 19th January 2025 | 11:00 am to 08:00 pm
- Location: Al Mugheirah Bay
- Contact: 971-2-626-9222
ART AND EXHIBITIONS
Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances
Want to learn about the Post-Impressionist period? If you want to learn more about the works of renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, Georges Seurat, Henri-Edmond Cross, Emile Bernard, Paul Sérusier, Maurice Denis and Odilon Redon, put this art event in Abu Dhabi on your must-visit list.
- Ticket price: From AED 65
- Date and timings: Until 9th February 2025
- Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-600-565566
Abu Dhabi Art Fair
The annual art fair, held every November, is the grand finale of a year-long celebration of visual arts. It brings together local and international galleries with a selection of artworks for purchase and presents a dynamic programme of exhibitions, artist commissions, and installations, extending its reach across the emirate.
- Location: Multiple locations across Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025
Great news for bibliophiles: the Abu Dhabi Book Fair is back for its 34th edition. One of the most popular annual events in Abu Dhabi, the bookfair features an array of local and international books, illustrations, professional workshops, seminars and panel discussions.
- Date and timings: 26th April to 05th May 2025 | 09:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
IDEX 2025
Mark your calendars for IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi – one of the biggest global defence-related exhibitions. This annual event in Abu Dhabi 2025 is held under the patronage of the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. It showcases the latest in defence technology.
- Ticket price: From AED 65
- Date and timings: 17th to 21st February 2025
- Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC Centre)
- Contact: +971-2-406-3362
Abu Dhabi Festival 2025
Returning for its 22nd edition, Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 is back with the theme “Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony.” The theme celebrates the harmony between people and cultures. In 2025, the Festival commemorates 50 years of friendship between the UAE and Japan this year.
- Ticket price: Varies
- Date and timings: 7th February to 29th March 2025
- Location: Emirates Palace Auditorium | The Red Theater, The Arts Centre at NYU Abu Dhabi
- Contact: david.s@admaf.org
CONCERTS IN ABU DHABI
COLDPLAY
The iconic Coldplay concerts are among the most anticipated Abu Dhabi upcoming events. It is undoubtedly one of the biggest concerts in Abu Dhabi 2025 to look forward to, and it’s the only one-of-a-kind event in the GCC region. It’s no surprise that all the tickets are sold out!
- Ticket price: Please visit Ticketmaster.ae for prices
- Date and timings: 9th, 11th, 12th and 14th January 2025
- Location: Zayed Sports City Stadium
- Contact: Refer to the Ticketmaster website
SAADIYAT NIGHTS – Michael Bublé
The live concert by Michael Buble is next on our list of Abu Dhabi annual events. Grammy-winning sensation with a golden voice, Michael Bublé, will perform live in the capital city. It is one of the highly anticipated live concerts in Abu Dhabi in 2025. Bublé has sold over 75 million albums, and you can ‘Sway’ to his hits like ‘Feeling Good’ and ‘Home’!
- Ticket price: From AED 595
- Date and timings: 16th January 2025 | From 05:00 pm
- Location: Saadiyat Island
STING
The world-renowned British singer Sting will perform at Etihad Arena as part of his Sting 3.0 Tour. Imagine a stunning backdrop of the island and Sting singing his famous numbers.
- Ticket price: Please refer to Ticketmaster.ae
- Date and timings: 3rd April 2025 | From 08:00 pm
- Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
GUNS N’ ROSES
GUNS N’ ROSES Concert is next on our list of annual events in Abu Dhabi. The band is known for their stadium-rocking performance with high energy and charisma.
- Ticket price: From AED 325
- Date and timings: 27th May 2025 | From 06:00 pm
- Location: Saadiyat Island
Hans Zimmer Live
Join the legendary composer Hans Zimmer for his first-ever performance in Abu Dhabi! Experience his iconic soundtracks from films like Dune, Interstellar, The Lion King and more, brought to life by Zimmer and his 18-piece live band, full orchestra and special guest performers. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime concert that promises to be a highlight of 2025.
- Ticket price: Please visit the official Etihad Arena website
- Date and timings: 31st May 2025 | From 08:30 pm
- Location: Etihad Arena
OTHER ABU DHABI EVENTS
MOTHER OF THE NATION FESTIVAL (MOTN)
MOTN Festival 2025 will be a family-friendly event, leading to a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration. With themed zones like the Thrill Zone, Amuse Zone, Indulge Zone and Entertain Arena, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy heart-thumping activities, global food delights, Instagram-worthy moments and unforgettable concerts at this mega event.
- Ticket price: From AED 35
- Date and timings: December 2025 | From 04:00 pm
- Location: Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Ain and Al Dhafra
AL HOSN FESTIVAL
The Al Hosn Festival 2025 celebrates the rich heritage and culture of Abu Dhabi. Held at the historical Qasar Al Hosn, this festival offers traditional music, dance performances, camel races and authentic Emirati cuisine. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and history.
- Date and timings: 25th January to 9th February 2025 | From 04:00 pm
- Location: Qasr Al Hosn
Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 2025 (ADIBS)
Another one of the Abu Dhabi events to look forward to is the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 2025. This is one of the most popular events for marine and luxury yacht enthusiasts.
- Date and timings: 20th to 23rd November 2025 | 10:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Location: Marina Hall, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC)
- Contact: marketing@adibs.ae
SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL
Another yearly event in Abu Dhabi is the Sheikh Zayed Festival. This event aims to preserve Emirati heritage and features a range of activities for both children and adults.
- Ticket price: From AED 10
- Date and timings: Until 28th February 2025
- Location: Al Wathba
- Contact: +971-800-555
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL FOOD EXHIBITION
The Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition is among the most sought-after F&B business events. It is patronised by His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA).
- Date and timings: 21st to 23rd October 2025 | From 06:00 pm
- Location: ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025
Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025 is a premier financial event that attracts industry professionals from around the world. It includes conferences, workshops and networking sessions on topics such as fintech, investment and economic development.
- Ticket price: Free
- Date and timings: 9th to 12th December 2025
- Location: Abu Dhabi Global Market
FAQS ABOUT ABU DHABI EVENTS
DO ANY INDOOR VENUES HOST WEEKLY ABU DHABI EVENTS?
The Etihad Arena on Yas Island is a wonderful multi-purpose indoor venue that hosts corporate functions, sporting competitions and cultural performances. The official website has more information about the calendar and ticket details.
WHAT ARE THE TOP ANNUAL EVENTS IN DUBAI?
If you plan to visit Abu Dhabi’s neighbouring emirate, some of the annual events in Dubai you wouldn’t want to miss are Dubai Shopping Festival, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and Dubai Jazz Festival.
That wraps up our guide to annual events in Abu Dhabi. We hope you enjoy this year and make the most of these events.
Looking for something specific? Our guide to monthly events in Abu Dhabi will point you in the right direction. And if you happen to be in Dubai, here’s a roundup of all the upcoming events at the Coca Cola Arena.
