It’s safe to say November and December are the busiest months in Abu Dhabi. That being said, January is a lovely month in the Emirate with cooler weather. Enjoying the outdoors and fewer tourists overall is ideal since schools are back early in the month!
We’ve been searching for the offers and best January events in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re celebrating Orthodox Christmas or looking for something cultured, we’ve covered all the bases this January.
Elevated Dry January at Conrad Etihad Towers, throughout January
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is transforming Dry January with a bespoke, non-alcoholic beverage menu. You will find unique creations in all dining venues across the hotel.
Crafted by Beverage Manager Marco Corallo, this menu offers stylish alternatives to traditional drinks throughout January. “These non-alcoholic beverages are my contribution to the meaningful journey of Dry January and the chance to reset for the new year, without missing out”. says Marco Corallo.
The standout drink is the Cinnamon Peach Spritz, a vibrant mocktail that mixes non-alcoholic Italian Aperitivo with peach, cinnamon, and soda. In addition to this refreshing drink, you can also explore a variety of sparkling beverages, spirit-free cocktails, and non-alcoholic beers.
Prices start at AED 45, making it an accessible and glamorous choice for mindful indulgence this January.
Dates and Times: Available throughout January
Pricing: Starting at AED 45
Reservations: Contact +971 (02) 811 5666 or visit the website here
Location: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Aloha Brunch at Tiki Pacifico, January onwards
Kick off your weekend in paradise with the Aloha Brunch at Tiki Pacifico Lounge. Every Saturday, enjoy a delicious Polynesian-inspired set menu with unlimited beverages.
Feel the tropical atmosphere created by a live DJ, energetic dancers, and vibrant percussion that keeps the vibes high!
This brunch is perfect for catching up with friends or celebrating the weekend. With an upbeat ambience and great food, it’s an epic and tasty Saturday escape that showcases one of the best January events in Abu Dhabi.
Date & Times: Every Saturday throughout January, 1 pm to 5 pm
Pricing: AED 199 (Soft Drinks); AED 359 (House Beverages); AED 459 (Sparkling Wine)
Booking Information: For more details and reservations, visit the Tiki Pacifico website.
Location: Tiki Pacifico Lounge, Al Bandar Marina, Abu Dhabi
Jungle Brunch at Siddharta by Buddha-Bar, January onwards
Get ready for a wild time at the Jungle Brunch every Saturday at Siddharta by Buddha-Bar. From 1 pm to 4 pm, this brunch serves up an exciting mix, sensory explosion of taste, sound, and spectacle.
Dive into generous portions of delicious dishes while the vibrant music sets the perfect mood. Choose from three enticing drink packages to complement your afternoon of fun.
Whether you’re catching up with friends or celebrating, this brunch offers an unforgettable experience overlooking Yas Bay. It’s one of the best January events in Abu Dhabi that you won’t want to miss.
Dates & Times: Every Saturday throughout January, 1 pm to 4 pm
Pricing: AED 259 (Soft Drinks); AED 359 (House Beverages); AED 459 (Sparkling Wine)
Booking Information: For more details and reservations, visit the Siddharta by Buddha-Bar website
Location: The Pier, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
La Vida Loca Evening Drunch, January 18th onwards
It’s about to get lit in the UAE capital with the arrival of this smashing new Latin American brunch! Starting January 18th, Lexx will transform into the ultimate La Vida Loca destination for some truly epic Saturday vibes.
With a singer on hand to set the mood as you savour a wild, vibrant selection of Latin tapas, it promises to be a legendary night you won’t want to miss.
Dates & Times: Every Saturday starting January 18th, 8 pm to 11 pm
Pricing: AED 249 (Soft Drinks); AED 349 (2 hours free-flow House Beverages)
Booking Information: For more details and reservations, call 02 510 1234
Location: Lexx, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Bubble Planet, Manarat Al Saadiyat, January onwards
Prepare to pop into a whole new universe as Bubble Planet lands in Abu Dhabi! It is a unique immersive experience held at Manarat Al Saadiyat this January.
Imagine stepping into a world filled with oversized balloons and mesmerising bubbles. At Bubble Planet, there are over ten themed rooms you can wander through, each offering a unique sensory adventure.
One highlight is the hot air balloon simulator, which lets you soar high above imaginary landscapes. The thrill of floating through the skies, even virtually, will surely spark joy.
Admission is free for children aged 0-4, making it an ideal outing for families. Kids, and kids at heart, can interact with a variety of bubble activities and enjoy delightful illusions that captivate the senses.
Children under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult. The virtual reality simulator is additional to the admission ticket.
Dates and Times: 3 January – 20 February 2025. Open Wednesday – Monday (closed on Tuesdays)
Prices: We have a discount code BUBBLEABU15 for bookings made here. Free for children aged 0 – 4.
Saadiyat Nights, January 4th onwards
Saadiyat Nights returns to Saadiyat Island this January, showcasing an incredible open-air musical event series featuring local, regional, and global talent. The lineup is a diverse mix of genres and styles, ensuring there is something for every music lover.
Award-winning artists like the legendary Boyz II Men and Christina Aguilera are headlining this year’s series. Notable performances include the renowned Egyptian composer Omar Khairat, who captivates audiences with his timeless melodies.
The specially constructed venue offers stunning views of Saadiyat Island’s cultural institutions, creating an inspiring atmosphere for music lovers. Get ready for magical evenings filled with spectacular performances by crooner Michael Bublé, legendary Robbie Williams, Leningrad and Persian powerhouse Ebi.
Saadiyat Nights promises a unique musical escape, perfect for families and friends. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience world-class entertainment in Abu Dhabi.
Dates: 4 January – 22 February 2025
Prices: Prices and dates vary, keep up to date with events here.
Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Coldplay, Zayed Sports City, January 9th – 14th
Coldplay will headline four shows at Zayed Sports City Stadium, one of the best January events in Abu Dhabi. These performances mark their only Middle Eastern gigs during the Music of the Spheres World Tour.
Fans can join Chris Martin and the band on January 9, 11, 12, and 14 to experience an unforgettable night of music. You can look forward to exciting tracks from their latest album, including “We Pray” and “Feels Like I’m Falling In Love.”
Longtime fans will also enjoy classic anthems like “Yellow,” “The Scientist,” and “Viva La Vida.” This is an extraordinary opportunity to see one of the world’s biggest bands in action.
Dates: January 9, 11, 12, and 14
Booking Information: For more details, visit here
Location: Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Cinema Under the Stars, Lourve Abu Dhabi, January 11th & 25th
Experience cinema under the stars with special open-air screenings at Louvre Abu Dhabi this January.
On January 11, enjoy the film “At Eternity’s Gate,” which beautifully explores Vincent Van Gogh’s time in Arles and Auvers-sur-Oise. Then, on January 25, don’t miss “Loving Vincent,” the world’s first fully-painted feature film that captures the final days of the renowned artist.
These film nights offer a perfect evening of culture and entertainment, set against the picturesque backdrop of Saadiyat Island. Gather friends and family for a unique cinematic experience in the cooler weather.
Dates and Time: January 11th & 25th 2025, 7 pm
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
Booking Information: Book tickets for Cinema Under the Stars here
Movies in Concert, Etihad Arena, January 16th – 18th
Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic adventure at Etihad Arena this January with the ‘Movies in Concert’ series. This exciting event showcases iconic films like Star Wars, Frozen, Top Gun, The Lion King, and Jurassic Park, bringing beloved stories to life through live orchestral music.
Experience the epic saga of Star Wars, where Rey and Finn unite with Han Solo to save the Resistance from the sinister First Order. Sing along with Elsa in Frozen as “Let It Go” fills the arena.
Relive the high-flying action in Top Gun, where the thrill of aerial combat takes centre stage. Feel the magic and emotion of The Lion King, with its powerful score that captures the heart of this beloved tale.
And brace yourself for the adventure of Jurassic Park as you stomp along on a journey filled with dinosaurs.
Lively performances paired with classic films, ‘Movies in Concert’ promises a thrilling experience for audiences of all ages. It’s a chance to enjoy timeless films in a whole new way and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Dates and Times: 16th to 18th of January 2025
Booking Information: For pricing and booking visit here
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny, Etihad Arena, January 11th
Mark your calendars for January 11th, as one of the UK’s top comedians brings his wit to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena. Jimmy Carr, known for his sharp humour and quick-fire jokes, is set to kick off the new year with his brand-new stand-up show, Laughs Funny.
Get ready for a night filled with laughter as he delivers a hilarious performance that promises to leave you in stitches. With his unique style and engaging stage presence, Jimmy Carr never fails to entertain.
This is an awesome opportunity for comedy fans to combine a night of jokes with Yas Island’s vibrant nightlife. Be in quick, you don’t want to miss your chance to see one of the leading laughmakers in action!
Date: January 11th, 2025
Booking Information: Purchase tickets here
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Festival, throughout January
The Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival in Abu Dhabi is an evolving celebration of culture and tradition from November to approximately March each year. This year the festival closes on February 28th.
It has grown into one of the most significant events on the Abu Dhabi calendar, seamlessly blending technological advancements with deep-rooted culture and traditional showcases.
The festival showcases over 20,000 individuals participating in many activities and 750 performances across different zones.
Sheikh Zayed Festival is well-known for its iconic Emirates Fountain, light shows, international pavilions representing various countries, weekly fireworks displays, and fascinating drone shows.
With a nominal entry fee and extended hours on weekends and public holidays, the festival offers a unique experience in understanding the UAE’s rich heritage and culture while enjoying delicious Emirati cuisine and a variety of activities for all ages.
Read more details on the Sheikh Zayed Festival here.
Candlelit Concert, NYU Blue Hall & Emirates Palace, 18th & 24th of January
The globally acclaimed Candlelight Concerts series continues in Abu Dhabi, where beautiful melodies fill the air amidst thousands of flickering candles. Hosted by Fever, these captivating events return with unforgettable musical experiences for everyone.
On January 18th, there will be a mesmerising tribute to Coldplay vs Imagine Dragons at NYU Blue Hall, followed by an intimate tribute to Adele on the same night. Then, on January 24th, surround yourself with a ‘Century of Iconic Arabic Music’ at the breathtaking Emirates Palace.
Whether you’re a classical music lover or just seeking a unique evening out, these concerts promise to enthral you.
Dates: January 18 and 24; February 8
Pricing: Tickets from AED 150. For more information visit Fever Original Events
Locations: Various locations including NYU Blue Hall and Emirates Palace
Ataya Exhibition 2025, January 13th -18th
The Ataya Exhibition 2025 in Abu Dhabi is an annual event showcasing the best in women’s fashion, jewellery, accessories, and home furniture. This
Held at ADNEC Marina Hall from January 13th to 18th, 2025, between 3 pm and 10 pm, the exhibition features exhibitors and producers from the UAE and worldwide.
Notably, the exhibition has a 13-year history of supporting humanitarian and charitable initiatives.
This year’s focus is Empowering African Youth Towards E-Transformation”. Ticket purchases will support humanitarian aid.
Dates: January 18 and 24; February 8
Pricing: AED 100. To purchase tickets visit here
Locations: ADNEC Marina, Abu Dhabi
Al Hosn Festival, January 25th onwards
The Al Hosn Festival, held annually at Abu Dhabi’s historic site, Qasr Al Hosn, is a celebration of the Emirate’s heritage.
Visitors can experience Emirati traditions, including hospitality, food, dress, customs, performances, and crafts.
The festival offers souks, children’s workshops, food and beverage stalls, traditional shows, musical performances, art exhibits, and interactive activities. From January 25 onwards, the event opens at 4 pm, with the last entry at 10:30 pm and closure at 11 pm.
Dates: January 25th to February 9th 2025
Pricing: Free entry
Locations: Held at Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi. For more information: visitabudhabi.ae
Kayan Wellness Festival, January 31st
Get ready for a refreshing experience at the Kayan Wellness Festival happening from January 31st to February 2nd on Al Fahid Island. This first-ever edition is all about rejuvenation and self-discovery, blending the best in wellness with a fun atmosphere.
Dive into yoga, meditation, and workshops led by some of the top wellness experts, including the inspiring Sadhguru and biohacker Gary Brecka. Enjoy hands-on sessions in breathwork and sound healing, and soak up the wisdom from transformative thinkers like Marisa Peer and Mo Gawdat.
It’s the perfect opportunity to hit reset and focus on your mind, body, and soul against the beautiful backdrop of Al Fahid Island. Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to explore the latest wellness trends while connecting with like-minded folks.
Dates: January 31st to February 2nd, 2025
Pricing: Tickets from AED 75. For tickets book here.
Location: Al Fahid Island, Abu Dhabi
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