As 2025 comes to an end and the festive season wraps up, attention now turns to January events in Abu Dhabi, with the capital hosting a packed calendar of festivals, concerts, cultural showcases, and family-friendly experiences to kick off 2026.
Liwa Village Festival, Until January 3rd
Running until January 3rd, 2026, the Liwa Village Festival is a perfect way to start the new year.
Combining cultural heritage and family activities, this event is for everyone and appropriate for all ages. Six zones offer adventure, history, and delicious cuisine to make sure you are truly well looked after.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Lisa Village
MOTN Festival, Until January 4th
If you want great food served up from all over the globe in one place, along with child-friendly activities, then MOTN Festival is the place for you. Situated on the famous Corniche until January 4th, 2026, this vibrant event has got everything.
And if you really want to be a hit with your little ones, make sure to get your tickets for Like Nastya, one of the world’s most influential child creators. Her work is built on imagination, positivity, and accessible storytelling for families everywhere.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit MOTN
For more information on Like Nastya ticket and general admission, please visit Platinum List.
Manar Abu Dhabi, Until January 4th
A wonderful light-inspired art show can still very much be part of your New Year’s experience. With the event running until January 4th, 2026, the theme ‘The Light Compass’ on Jubail Island is perfect for art lovers and those who wish to see the mangroves with inspiring artwork to complement the fine work presented.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Paad
Orthodox Christmas, January 7th
The Ritz-Carlton is extending the celebrations with a series of indulgent Orthodox Christmas experiences. These curated dining moments promise elegance, flavour, and festive cheer….plus a very special guest.
Date & Time – Wednesday 7th January 2026 (Times are subject to variation based on the restaurant)
Price – AED 190 – AED 535 (Prices are subject to variation based on the restaurant)
Contact – For more information, please contact the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi: +971 2818 8881
Russian State Ballet Mari El, 9 & 10th January
Performing two classics and inspirational stories, the Russian State Ballet Mary El will be showcasing Cinderella and Romeo & Juliet on January 9th and January 10th, 2026.
This well-renowned ballet production is putting on these two great shows at the Cultural Foundation, located right in the heart of the city. One of these shows, if not both, is a must-see for ballet lovers.
For more information on tickets and general admission for the Romeo and Juliet performance (January 9th), please visit the Cultural Foundation
For more information on tickets and general admission for the Cinderella performance (January 10th), please visit the Cultural Foundation
CSI5* UAE President Cup Showjumping 9-11th January
For those seeking a more premium event and those who love their equestrian, this is an event you’ll want to book.
Lounge music and food prepared by the famous Mandarin Oriental, this is a bit of luxury that will get your year off to a great start.
Running over the course of three days, it kicks off on January 9th and finishes on January 11th, 2026. It’s a great sporting occasion to be part of.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Platinum List
Arkan Reset, January 11th
For Abu Dhabi residents looking to start 2026 with intention, clarity, and expert-led wellness, Arkan Reset offers a rare opportunity that’s genuinely worth crossing the city border for.
Although the event is based in Dubai, it’s worth the short journey on January 11th, 2026. With Abu Dhabi-based professionals involved, the experience remains grounded and relevant while offering the fresh perspective that comes from a change of environment.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Luma
Fontana Circus Abu Dhabi, Until January 11th
Renowned as the most ambitious aquatic show in the region, the Fontana Show made its grand entrance in November.
However, there’s still a chance to attend this showpiece event, with the event running until January 11th, 2026. The show consists of awe-inspiring dancers, gravity-defying aerialists, and incredible circus thrills that will enthrall the entire family.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Platinum List
Al Hosn Festival, Starting January 17th
One of the more cultural events taking place in January, the Al Hosn festival is hosting authentic cuisine, live music, and other activities suitable for all ages.
A huge advantage to attending the festival is seeing one of the region’s most treasured sites, Qatar al Hosn. Al Hosn is where our diverse communities come together to take part in Abu Dhabi’s ever-evolving story, starting on January 17th, 2026.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Abu Dhabi Culture
Sweat & Shine Wellness Session, January 18th
Fahid Beach Club has joined up with Beyond Wellness to bring a morning of movement, connection and sea energy on January 18th, 2026.
Focusing on strength, breath-work, and balance, this session will give you that zen feeling that you deserve on a Sunday. There is also the option to stay for a seaside breakfast and unwind by the pool.
For more information on session costs and timings, please contact Fahid Beach Club
Golden Ink Exhibition, Throughout January
The Golden Ink Exhibition offers a unique experience celebrating the global impact of Arab and Islamic manuscripts.
Treasures from across the region will also be on show, with contributions from the Zayed National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and other esteemed UAE private collections. Running throughout the whole of January, you’ll have plenty of time to visit this event.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Abu Dhabi Culture
Linkin Park at The Etihad Arena, 20th January
This is a late Christmas present for all fans of rock music. This is Linkin Park’s grand return to the UAE, having last performed in the capital back in 2010.
Part of their ‘From Zero World,’ this is the band’s first stop of the year, and it’s going to get a big crowd. Playing at the atmospheric Etihad Arena on Yas Island, this is a live show you’ll want to be part of.
For more information on tickets and general admission, please visit Etihad Arena
(NOTE: THERE IS AN AGE RESTRICTION TO ATTEND THIS EVENT.)
Mubdala Open Tennis 2026, 31st January
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open returns to Abu Dhabi from January 31 to February 7 at the International Tennis Centre in Zayed Sports City, bringing world-class women’s tennis to the capital as part of the WTA 500 tour.
Alongside thrilling on-court action, the event features a lively Fan Village with live music, games, food trucks, gourmet F&B experiences and a range of family-friendly activities, with kids under 12 able to attend the first five days free, making it a great outing for all ages
Superhero Family Brunch, January 31st
One of the standout family-friendly things to do in Abu Dhabi this January is the launch of SkyDome’s first family brunch of 2026 at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. Taking place on 31 January, this special brunch comes with a playful superhero and supervillain theme, combining live entertainment for kids with a relaxed, polished dining experience for adults.
Pricing: From AED 275 per adult (soft package). Children aged 10 to 12 dine for AED 110, while kids under 10 eat free (up to two per family). Beverage upgrades available.
Please follow Secret Abu Dhabi on our socials to get further information on upcoming events in 2026!
