News you might have missed this week in Abu Dhabi | 17 June 2026

The capital is keeping things fresh this week with a whole new mix of happenings. From highly anticipated coffee house launches and great summer dining deals to local artisan markets, neighbourhood book swaps, and new stages opening up for homegrown musicians and culinary talent, here’s our quick roundup of the news and things to do in Abu Dhabi. 

London’s famous WatchHouse has a new home in the capital

London’s WatchHouse has officially set up shop in Abu Dhabi, bringing its signature coffee concept right on the grounds of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. The interior takes design cues from the nearby stables, using hand-glazed terracotta tiles, earthen floors, and a marble coffee bar. 

You can try their all-day dishes like Turkish eggs, sweetcorn pancakes, and fresh bakes like pistachio matcha cookies. They also serve a range of house blends and seasonal single origins across different brewing methods. If you're a proper coffee nerd, look for their "Rarities bar," which features limited-edition, small-batch beans from award-winning farms.

Where: The Arcades at Al Khail Square, Al Karamah Street

When: Weekdays 9:00 am - 10:00 pm | Weekends 9:00 am - midnight

Swap your stories at Therapie Cafe

Got some pre-loved books gathering dust? Head over to Therapie Cafe this Saturday for a community book swap hosted by Show & Tell UAE. You just need to bring along a few of your pre-loved books, trade them for something new, and hang out over coffee or matcha.

The event also features a "blind date with a book" setup. You can wrap one of your copies in parchment paper, decorate it with a few clues about the plot, and leave a surprise story for someone else to take home. Show up for the pages, stay for the conversations, and you might leave with a mystery masterpiece in hand.

Where: Therapie Cafe, Miza, Abu Dhabi

When: Saturday, 20 June 2026

Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Register here to save a seat

Kids eat free at Nalu this summer

School is out, and Nalu, located at Surf Abu Dhabi is sorting out your summer family dining plans. Running until 30 September, children aged 12 and below eat completely free.

The offer runs all day, giving you one free kids' set menu (a main, side, and drink) for every adult ordering from the regular menu. There’s a variety of options to keep them happy, from quick bites like chicken tenders and margherita pizza to pan-seared salmon.

Plus, it is also a pet-friendly spot, meaning four-legged family members don't have to miss out on the beach day.

Where: Nalu Surf Club, Surf Abu Dhabi

When: Daily until 30 September 2026 (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Book your spot: Phone: 02 419 8509 Email: reservations@nalusurfclubuae.com 

More info here

Café Onda pops up at The Abu Dhabi EDITION

Dubai’s Mid-Century-inspired coffee house Café Onda has landed in the capital for a summer pop-up. Known for its vibrant vibes and specialty drinks, the Jumeirah-born café has taken over the lobby at The Abu Dhabi EDITION.

Running daily through September, you can grab their signature specialty coffee, made-to-order matcha, and the famous creamtop drinks that put them on the map, alongside a selection of desserts. 

Where: Lobby of The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina

When: 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm

More info here 

GALA launches 'Chef De Innovation' platform 

Do you have a recipe in mind or a family signature dish you think deserves a spot in a real restaurant kitchen? GALA Indian Gourmet has opened registrations for 'Chef De Innovation,' for the first time right in the capital - an initiative giving passionate food creators a platform to showcase their talent. 

You do not need a fancy pitch to enter - just fill in the registration form with your preferred cuisine and a brief description of the dish, including the vision and story behind it. 

Where: GALA Indian Gourmet, Abu Dhabi

Register here

More info here 

FLAVOURS HUB by Creative Connect - Take the stage

If you're a local musician, singer, or part of a band looking for a place to play, Flavours Hub in Masdar City is opening up its stage. There’s a live music lineup for both their main stage and the brand-new Jazz Hub, and they want to hear from acoustic artists, jazz performers, and full bands. It’s a chance to play your tracks, meet a new crowd, and join the local music community. 

Where: Flavours Hub, Masdar park

Drop them an email at hello@creativeconnect.space to get the ball rolling

Contact: You can also call or WhatsApp 056 122 8288

More info here