News you might have missed this week in Abu Dhabi

A mix of community events, family offers and a few big global headlines… here’s what’s been happening in the capital this week.

Walk the track with the community at Yas Marina Circuit

If you’re looking for something active to get involved in this week, there's a special edition of TrainYAS is taking place at Yas Marina Circuit on 15 April, under the theme One Flag, One Walk, One Community.

It’s exactly what it sounds like. A chance to get out, move, and be part of something with the wider community. Everyone is encouraged to wear UAE colours, and it’s open to all ages.

When: 15 April 2026

Time: From 5:30pm, walk starts 6:30pm

Cost: Free, but registration is required for access to the track

How to join:You’ll need to register in advance and get a TrainYAS barcode for entry via the official Yas Marina Circuit website.

Kids Go Free is back for summer on Yas Island

This is one that comes around every year, and it’s always worth knowing about.

Yas Island has brought back its Kids Go Free offer, running until 31 October, and it’s as good as it sounds.

Kids aged 11 and under can stay, dine and access the parks for free when staying with parents at participating hotels like W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island and The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton.

That also means access to:

• Ferrari World Yas Island Abu Dhabi

• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

• Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi

• SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

For bookings and more information, visit https://www.yasisland.com/.

Run for the Nation returns this weekend

Another one to get involved in if you’re in the mood to move.

The Run for the Nation is happening on 18 April at Wahat Al Karama, starting at 8:00am.

It’s free to take part and open to everyone, with a focus on community, fitness and reflecting on the meaning behind the location itself.

Expect a strong turnout across all ages and abilities.

To resgister head to in.njuko.com/run-for-the-nation

Zayed Award opens nominations for 2027

On a more cultural note, the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity has opened nominations for its next edition.

The $1 million award recognises individuals and organisations working towards peace and coexistence globally, inspired by the Human Fraternity document signed by Pope Francis and Ahmed Al-Tayeb.

Nominations are open until 1 October 2026.e

Register here: https://zayedaward.org

Something different to do: cooking classes at École Ducasse

If you’re after something a bit different this month, École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio has launched a full schedule of hands-on cooking experiences for April.

From croissant-making and tapas workshops to Emirati dessert classes and chef-led dining sessions, it’s a nice alternative to the usual dinner plans. There are also sessions for kids, so it works as a family activity too.

Opening Times: Mon |11 am – 6 pm. Tue - Sun| 9 am - 6 pm

Reservations: +971 2 566 9885 | +971 52 663 7689

Abu Dhabi quietly makes a big move in global dining

Abu Dhabi-based DIAFA has completed a major investment into the restaurant group of Richard Caring.

That includes big-name venues like The Ivy, Sexy Fish and Annabel's, in a deal reported to be worth around £1.4 billion.

It’s another sign of how Abu Dhabi is continuing to expand its footprint in global luxury hospitality.

More news when we get it.