If your weekend plans are looking a little more exciting than simply deciding where to eat, Abu Dhabi has plenty going on. As hump day arrives, both residents and visitors can look forward to a new Italian Sunday ritual, a rooftop pool session with sunset views, a beachside daycation, and a little bit of Harry Potter magic.
If you want to spend the weekend by the water, work up a sweat, tuck into a seriously good burger, or raise a glass with friends, here are some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Gather The Girls for Blush Fridays
Friday is looking a little more glamorous at The Lean, where Blush Fridays is bringing poolside lounging and golden-hour views to the rooftop.
Running from 4.00 PM – 10.00 PM every Friday, the experience is designed for groups of friends looking to ease into the weekend with a few hours by the pool.
For just AED 125 per lady, you’ll get pool access, a sharing platter, and three hours of selected cocktails and house beverages. It’s a Friday plan where you can arrive early and let the weekend take care of itself.
For further information, visit The Lean Sip & Dip | Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi.
Location: Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi
SUSHISAMBA Rio Brunch Returns
If your ideal Saturday involves great food, cocktails, and a party that refuses to end at lunchtime, SUSHISAMBA has you covered.
The Rio Brunch returns for a new season on the first weekend of September, bringing back their lively Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavours alongside entertainment and the energetic atmosphere that has made it a popular weekend choice.
It’s a brunch where you shouldn’t make too many plans for later in the day, as it’s easy to find yourself quite happy staying exactly where you are.
For further information and to book your table, visit RIO BRUNCH | SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi.
Location: Conrad Etihad Towers, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi.
Celebrate 14 Years of Pals & Porters
Porters English Pub is celebrating 14 years in Abu Dhabi, and the anniversary week is being celebrated in big style. Friday will be hosting an Anniversary Drunch from 5.00 PM to 9.00 PM, with packages starting at AED 169 for two hours of free-flow beverages and a combo platter.
Saturday is the main event, with the main 14th Anniversary Brunch taking over from 12.30 PM, with four-hour packages priced at AED 399 for two and eight-hour packages at AED 699 for two.
There will also be anniversary giveaways, making this one for anyone who likes their weekends with plenty of drinks, music, and even better company.
For further information and to book your table, contact [email protected].
Location: Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi
Make Saturday Burger Night
Sometimes the best weekend plans are the simplest ones, and Café 302’s Burger Night makes a strong case for keeping Saturday evening casual.
Hosted every Saturday from 6.00 PM to 10.00 PM, diners can choose their favourite burger, partnered with unlimited fries and a soft beverage.
For just AED 59 for adults and AED 35 for kids, this is an easy option for families, groups of friends or anyone who believes a weekend isn’t complete without a good burger.
For further information and to book your table, visit Dining at Al Maha Arjaan.
Location: Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana, Al Danah, Abu Dhabi
Escape To Saadiyat Without Booking a Room
You don’t need to check into a hotel to enjoy a luxury resort weekend. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is offering a daycation, offering visitors the chance to spend the day at the beach, pools, and resort facilities.
A single pass costs AED 250 and includes AED 100 in dining credit, whilst couples can opt for an AED 450 pass with AED 200 dining credit at the hotel.
It’s an easy way to turn a regular weekend day into a mini holiday by Saadiyat Beach.
For further information, visit The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi.
Location: The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
Start Your Saturday with a Fitness Session
For anyone who prefers to earn their weekend indulgence, head to the WTC Abu Dhabi on Saturday morning for their weekly fitness sessions from 10.00 AM – 11.00 AM in the Public Square.
Taking place in the Public Square, a minimum spend of AED 150 in the mall is required to take part. Places are subject to availability, so arrive early, get the workout done, then enjoy your Saturday.
For further information, visit The Mall WTC.
Location: World Trade Center Abu Dhabi (WTC), Al Danah, Abu Dhabi
Have An Italian Sunday at Sole
Finish the weekend the Italian way with Domenica all’Italiana at Sole. Taking place every Sunday from 12:30 PM – 3:30 pm, this new weekly dining experience is all about long lunches and slowing down around the table.
The menu begins with antipasti before moving into Italian favourites including lasagna, parmigiana di melanzane, and mushroom and truffle risotto, followed by a choice of mains and classic desserts.
Packages cost AED 295 for the family experience with house beverages, AED 245 with non-alcoholic beverages, and AED 75 for the kids’ experience. Younger diners can even make their own pizza with the restaurant’s culinary team and will receive a Little Italian Chef diploma.
For further information and to book your table, visit Sole | Conrad Abu Dhabi.
Location: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Step Into The Wizarding World
Harry Potter fans have another reason to visit Yas Island this weekend, with a new Harry Potter retail experience now at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.
It arrives ahead of the much-anticipated Harry Potter-themed expansion, giving fans an early taste of what is to come.
Visitors can browse Wizarding World-inspired merchandise and pick up something magical to take home.
Location: Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Offering sunset drinks, great food, and a little wizarding-world magic, all that’s left to do is pick your favourites and make a weekend of it in Abu Dhabi.
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