It’ll soon our favourite time of the weekend again: Thursday. It’s when we can clock off and spring into our weekend plans. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend, there is plenty happening (like usual).
The Department of Culture & Tourism – Abu Dhabi has numerous exciting events happening whether you’re after something sporty (jiu-jitsu or triathlons) or you want to participate in memorable Diwali celebrations.
Searching for something more unique with cultural flair? A dragon boat experience or a handicrafts festival are the things to add to your diary.
That’s the sound of the weekend calling, and these are the must-do activities.
Diwali Festival at Marsana
The celebration of Diwali is no other thanks to it’s colourful and lively spirit. Families can celebrate the Festival of Lights at Marsana. There’s plenty happening from Rangoli competitions, a mini market, plenty of delicious food and beverages, a live DJ and Indian performances. The décor alone is worth stopping by. Come in your best outfit because there’s a fashion show, too.
Nov 5-6, 6pm-11pm. MarVista Beach, Al Hudayriat Island, marsana.ae.
Dragon Boat Experience around the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum
The Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Dragon and Phoenix exhibition brings together the arts and sciences of China and the Islamic world. To mark the insightful exhibition, visitors to the museum can also enjoy a dragon boat experience for a bit of action-adventure with their culture. Explore the waters surrounding Saadiyat beach. The tour is operated by Sea Hawk Water Sports & Adventures and open to those aged 16 and older. Book a spot if you’re keen because a minimum of eight participants is required and each boat holds a maximum of 10.
Dhs40. Group package Dh30 per person (minimum five people). Nov. 4 to Dec 31 with tours every Thu-Sat 9am and 4pm. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat (600 565566).
Traditional Handicrafts Festival
Adore arts and crafts? Want to be inspired by incredible artisans and their time-honoured skills? Head to the annual Traditional Handicrafts Festival at the Al Qattara heritage district in Al Ain. The event is focused on preserving traditional Emirati handicrafts, and attendees are able to get fully immersed thanks to local experts, workshops and musical performances.
Free. Thu Oct 28 to Sat Nov 13. Al Qattara, Al Ain (03 711 8225).
Jiu-Jitsu World Championship 2021
Abu Dhabi is hosting the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship. The UAEJJF is the largest jiu-jitsu championship in the UAE, and it is an amazing opportunity to see talents from all levels. It might just inspire you to take up jiu-jitsu.
Nov 3-11. Mubadala Arena, Zayed Sports City, zsc.ae.
World Triathlon Championship Series Abu Dhabi
This weekend in Abu Dhabi isn’t complete without enjoying the World Triathlon Championship series featuring over 110 top-form triathletes. Not ready for your first triathlon quite yet? Over the two days, there will be different races for amateur triathletes. Zoom.
Nov 5-6. Yas Marina Circuit, triathlon.org.
