If you’re planning your weekend in the capital, here are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend, with events, festivals, and live shows worth attending.
Reema: Queen of the Desert Emirati Theatre
A captivating performance that celebrates courage, compassion, and the magic of connection. Reema: Queen of the Desert is a story filled with heart and imagination.

Performing on Friday, 27th March, this is a show for all nature lovers as you watch Reema search for the Magical Oasis, aiming to bring humans and animals closer together.
Location: Cultural Foundation, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Abu Dhabi
Candlelight: Hans Zimmer’s Best Works
Candlelight: Hans Zimmer’s Best Works brings you an experience that transforms the iconic Emirates Palace with the soft glow of candlelight

Taking place on Saturday, 28th March, attendees will listen to the orchestrated sounds from some of Hans Zimmer’s finest works, including ‘Now We Are Free’ from Gladiator, ‘This Land’ from The Lion King, and many more masterpieces.
Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Free Access to the Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi
Visitors to The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi will have an added reason to plan a visit this weekend, as you will receive complimentary entry to The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi.

Those with aquarium tickets will have the opportunity to explore the aquarium’s marine habitats before stepping into a lush indoor garden filled with rare and eye-catching butterflies.
Ticket Information: Visit the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi | Ticket selection for more information. Complimentary passes to The Butterfly Gardens are available at the counters only.
Location: Al Qana, Rabdan, Abu Dhabi
Athar Festival
Taking place until the 29th March, Abu Dhabi will be hosting Athar Festival this weekend, celebrating the spirit of generosity and giving.

Tied to the ‘Year of the Family’, this festival promotes family cohesion and social unity, offering visitors a diverse programme of shows, entertainment experiences, and creative workshops.
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi,
Visit Cinemacity Starlight
Cinemacity Starlight has now opened at Marina Mall, bringing a more refined, experience-led approach to watching films in the city.

For film enthusiasts and cinemagoers, Cinemacity Starlight is a step away from the standard multiplex feel.
Location: Marina Mall, Al Kasir, Al Marina, Abu Dhabi
‘Picturing the Cosmos’ at the Children’s Museum
Offering interactive exhibitions, the Children’s Museum at the Louvre is a perfect educational outing.

The latest exhibition, ‘Picturing the Cosmos’, gives children the chance to go on an interstellar journey that spans three awe-inspiring floors.
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
A Special Daycation at Saadiyat Beach Club
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back afternoon under the sun this weekend with spa access and dining perks, there are some great daycation spots in the city to indulge in.

These daycations in Abu Dhabi offer an easy way to reset without committing to a full getaway.
Follow Secret Abu Dhabi for more news, events, and updates in the capital and beyond.

