The temperatures seem to be dropping at last – but our round-up of the best October events in Abu Dhabi might just make things hotter!
The biggest icons across sports, music and beyond are taking the stage across Abu Dhabi. From the first-ever women’s UFC strawweight title match to some epic Oktoberfest deals, there is, as always, something fun for everyone.
Some of the events definitely need advanced booking though – so take a look at the complete list of events in Abu Dhabi this month and get going.
As always, we’ve got the entire events calendar for 2025 covered if you want to plan ahead too!
Explore the best October events in Abu Dhabi
Oktoberfest at Stills
Yas Plaza Hotels is bringing a taste of Bavaria to Abu Dhabi with their Oktoberfest celebrations at Stills, Crowne Plaza Yas Island, from October 16th to 18th.
Expect authentic German food, a variety of Paulaner beers and lively performances by Frankfurt’s Downtown Stage, creating an atmosphere straight out of Munich.
Details:
When: 16 – 18 October 2025 | 6:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Prices: AED 150 (fully redeemable), free for children under 12
To reserve contact +971 506675815 or book now here.
Tracey Preston at Sorso
What’s a good listing of the best October events in Abu Dhabi without some soulful music and vibes? Acclaimed vocalist Tracey Preston is all set to take the stage at Sorso, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal every Wednesday to Saturday.
An international singer-songwriter, Tracey brings a distinctive blend of soulful melodies and modern rhythm and blues.
It’s a different experience each evening, beginning with Jazz Nights on Wednesdays, Classic Tribute Nights on Thursdays and what looks like it might be our favourite – Fun Fridays, an eclectic journey through R&B, classic soul, pop, and jazz. Close the week with Soulful Saturdays as you slow down with amazing tunes to soothe your soul.
Details:
When: Wednesday to Saturday | 9 pm to 11:45 pm
Prices: AED 150 (fully redeemable), free for children under 12
To reserve contact +971 281 88203 or book now here.
Best Oktoberfest deals in Abu Dhabi
Nothing says October events in Abu Dhabi like some unmissable Oktoberfest deals. As always, you’ll find plenty of spots across the capital that will be hosting festivities that bring the lively spirit of Munich to the heart of the UAE.
From traditional Bavarian brews and hearty German cuisine to festive music and lively atmospheres, Oktoberfest in Abu Dhabi provides an opportunity to experience authentic German culture. Check out some amazing deals and go Prost today!
NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2205
Get ready to witness the shooting stars in the fourth season of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025. Presented by ADQ, the games are returning on Thursday, 2 October & Saturday, 4 October at Etihad Arena, Yas Island.
One of the more exciting October events in Abu Dhabi, basketball fans’ favourite time of the year is getting even bigger, with the 2025 programme offering expanded interactive fan events, more appearances by current and former NBA players, exclusive VIP experiences and customised hospitality packages designed to make it a weeklong extravaganza.
Details:
Date: 2 and 4 October 2025
Time: TBA
Price: Starting AED 295, visit Etihad Arena and TicketMaster
Fat Joe at the NBA Abu Dhabi Games
Ready to go all the way during the most epic game of the season? It’s officially confirmed – Fat Joe is heading to the capital for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025.
As if the opening game of the New York Knicks v the Philadelphia 76ers at Etihad Arena wasn’t exciting enough – Fat Joe at halftime is sure to top up the festive celebrations! Get your tickets to the hottest October events in Abu Dhabi right now.
Details:
Date: 2 and 4 October 2025
Price: Starting AED 295, visit Etihad Arena and TicketMaster
Mamluks: Legacy of an Empire
This is the first-ever exhibition on the Mamluk Sultanate to be showcased in the GCC region. The exhibit is now open to the public until 25 January 2026.
Showcasing the rich productions of the remarkable Mamluk society, the exhibition brings together over 270 exceptional artworks from 34 prestigious museums and cultural institutions in 13 countries.
Details:
What: Mamluks: Legacy of an Empire at Louvre Abu Dhabi
When: Until 25 January 2026
Tickets: AED 65. Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi
Smashing Pumpkins
The Smashing Pumpkins are coming to the UAE for the first time ever with their tour ‘Rock Invasion 2025’! The band consists of Billy Corgan, James Iha, and Jimmy Chamberlin, who continue to spin together rock, pop, shoegaze, metal, goth, psychedelia, and electronic.
It’s the band’s first full-scale tour of Asia in over a decade, offering a rare chance for fans to experience their explosive live performance up close. Don’t miss out!
Details:
What: Smashing Pumpkins at Etihad Arena
When: 9 October
Tickets: Starting from AED 325. Visit Platinumlist
Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
Step into a world of cinematic wonder with the unforgettable music of Hans Zimmer under candlelight glow.
One of the more ethereal October events in Abu Dhabi, don’t miss the chance to watch this multi-sensory concert experience that transforms some of the composer’s most iconic film scores into an evening of pure magic. From the epic themes of Gladiator and Pirates of the Caribbean to the moving soundscapes of Interstellar and The Lion King, fans of Hans Zimmer and his epics are going to love this one.
Details:
What: Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi
When: 10 October
Tickets: Starting from AED 200. Visit Fever
Al Shami Live in Abu Dhabi
Get ready for an unforgettable evening as Al Shami brings his unique blend of Arabic melodies and Western rhythms to the stage in Abu Dhabi.
Known for his powerful voice, emotional lyrics, and ability to seamlessly bridge cultures through music, Al Shami has captured hearts from the Middle East to Europe. With chart-topping hits like Doctor, Wein, Ya Leil W Yal Ein, Sabran, Sametek Sama, and Befdiki, this is hands down one of the more unique October events in Abu Dhabi!
Details:
What: Al Shami Live at Space42 Arena
When: 11 October
Tickets: Starting from AED 195. Visit Platinumlist
André Rieu
Having set a record with his performance last year, the world’s favourite Dutch violinist and conductor, André Rieu, is all set to return to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi once more!
Slated for Saturday, 18 October 2025, the icon will be accompanied by his renowned 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra and international soloists. With over 40 million albums sold, 500+ platinum awards, and a combined social media following of more than 16 million, plus billions of views on YouTube, André Rieu is among the world’s most celebrated musicians and performers.
Details:
What: André Rieu at Etihad Arena
When: Saturday 18 October
Tickets: Starting AED 215, visit etihadarena.ae and platinumlist.net
Spartan Trifecta Weekend at Al Ain Zoo
Spartan Middle East is all set to challenge with the Spartan Trifecta Weekend to Abu Dhabi. Athletes and adventure seekers of all fitness levels are welcome to test their endurance across Spartan’s three signature race formats:
- The Sprint (5km, 20 obstacles)
- The Super (10km, 25 obstacles)
- The Beast (21km, 30 obstacles)
Completing all three earns participants the prestigious Trifecta medal, a true mark of grit and determination. Now who’s meeting us at the finish line for one of the hottest October events in Abu Dhabi?
Details:
What: Spartan Trifecta Weekend at Al Ain Zoo
When: 11-12 October
Tickets: Starting from AED 110, visit Spartan Trifecta Weekend
UAE Warriors 64
If electrifying nights of combat sports are the kind of October events in Abu Dhabi you seek – the UAE Warriors 64 stage is for you!
This world-class MMA championship brings together elite fighters from across the globe alongside top regional talent as part of Abu Dhabi Showdown Week. Fans can expect explosive matchups, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments inside the cage, making it a must-see highlight of the city’s ultimate fight week.
Details:
What: UAE Warriors 64 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
When: 22 October
Tickets: Starting from AED 50, visit ADNEC
UFC 321
And finally, this one tops the list of October events in Abu Dhabi that everyone’s been waiting for! Get ready for an electrifying night of mixed martial arts as UFC 321 headlines Abu Dhabi Showdown Week.
Featuring top-ranked fighters from around the globe, this action-packed event will deliver explosive matchups and unforgettable energy in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Apart from the fights, you have two chances to witness history! First, with a women’s strawweight title fight, and second being the return of Umar Nurmagomedov in a high-stakes bantamweight clash.
What: UFC 321 at Etihad Arena
When: 25 October
Tickets: Starting from AED 1595. Visit Ticketmaster
Cineolio’s Cinenights
Explore cultural dialogue with five short films from across the globe at NYU Abu Dhabi. Skip the noise and hustle of the city and trade it in for one of the more soulful October events in Abu Dhabi.
Founded by filmmaker and curator Nawaf Al Janahi in 2020, Cineolio‘s mission is focused on promoting short films and expanding their audience reach internationally. This line-up is definitely going to get you in your feels and beyond!
Details:
What: Cineolio’s Cinenights at The Blue Hall, The Arts Center
When: 28 – 29 Oct 2025
Tickets: Starting from AED 30. Visit Platinumlist