News you might have missed this week in Abu Dhabi

If you’ve been busy this week, here’s a quick catch-up on what’s been happening across the capital. From festival updates to new openings and community initiatives, there’s a lot going on.

Live music updates

If you had your eye on OFFLIMITS Festival, you’ll want to double-check your calendar. The event has officially shifted dates to 21 November 2026 and will still be held at Etihad Park, whilst Christina Aguilera's concert at Etihad Arena has been moved to 25 September 2026.

Creative call extended for house of Artisans Competition

If you’ve been thinking about entering the House of Artisans Design Competition, you’ve now got a bit more time.

The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and Mubadala have extended submissions until 20 April, giving creatives across the UAE the chance to reinterpret traditional Emirati craftsmanship through contemporary design.

The competition spans furniture, product design and decorative art, with selected finalists entering a development programme before eight winners are chosen. Beyond exposure, there’s also the opportunity for designs to be acquired by Mubadala Foundation, making this one worth considering if you’re in the creative space.

Register here

Wellfit Is opening its first Abu Dhabi club

Big news for the fitness crowd. Wellfit is officially heading to Abu Dhabi, with a mega-club set to open in Reem Mall this summer.

This will be a HYROX-affiliated space focused on strength and conditioning, complete with specialised equipment, recovery zones, saunas, cold plunges and even a dedicated kids’ programme.

It’s clearly designed as more than just a gym. Think full lifestyle fitness hub, with family-friendly offerings and premium touches like an in-house restaurant and advanced body assessment tech. Founder memberships are expected to go quickly, so keep an eye on this one.

More info here

Athar Festival is happening now at Manarat Al Saadiyat

If you’re looking for something meaningful to do this week, Athar Festival is currently running from 25 to 29 March at Manarat Al Saadiyat.

It’s a family-friendly event built around community, creativity and giving, with proceeds supporting the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans initiative.

Expect live entertainment, workshops, retail pop-ups and plenty of activities for all ages. It’s one of those events where you can enjoy a day out while contributing to something bigger.

More info here

Cinemacity Starlight has opened at Marina Mall

There’s a new cinema in town, but this one is doing things a little differently.

Cinemacity Starlight at Marina Mall is positioning itself as more of an entertainment lounge than a traditional cinema. Alongside nine screens, including a 500-seat theatre, you’ll find dining concepts, a members’ club and curated cultural programming.

It’s the kind of place you go to spend an evening, not just watch a film. Worth checking out if you’re after something new.

More info here

Yas Waterworld expansion opens 4 April 2026

Yas Waterworld is about to get even bigger, with its latest expansion opening on 4 April.

The update introduces a whole new set of slides and experiences, including what’s set to be the UAE’s tallest waterslide, along with racing slides, freefall drops and a new leisure pool area.

It brings the park’s total experiences to more than 70, so if you thought you’d done it all before, it might be time for another visit.

More info here