Things to do in Abu Dhabi this week: The ADR Week: 11 - 17 May
- Shweta Srikanth
- May 10
- 4 min read
Updated: May 13
There’s a mix of interesting things happening in the capital right now, and here’s our list of things to do in Abu Dhabi worth checking out. From family fun at Yas Mall and live jam nights, to shopping pop-ups and creative workshops for kids.
Monday 11 May
London’s popular steak and fries, for less this Monday
Rowley's, the coveted steak house from London, will introduce its steak and fries concept to Abu Dhabi this week with the opening of The Little Fox food truck at Al Qana on Thursday May 7. It will serve a streamlined version of Rowley’s core offering, and act as a teaser for its first full restaurant opening in Yas Bay later this year. On Monday 11 May, The Little Fox will be offering all Steak Fries Cones for AED 25, all day.
When: Running from 7 May and open from 10am - Midnight
Where: Al Qana Food truck area
Price: Varied prices | Steak Fries cones AED 25, all day on Monday 11 May
More info: https://rowleysrestaurants.com/
Something for the whole family at Yas Mall with Aldar’s Week of Wonder
This week, heading to Yas Mall isn’t just about hitting the shops. From 9 May, the Town Square area will be transformed into Aldar’s Week of Wonder, where you’ll find a mix of interactive experiences, live performances, and dining experiences.
There’s lots of different areas to check out including Secret Garden for games and activities suitable for all ages, or the Whispering Grove for hands-on workshops and storytelling. If you want some entertainment, the Wildflower Field will host live performances and roaming acts throughout the day. There is also a Taste of Wonder area with pop-up dining and plenty of options to choose from.
When: Running from 9 to 20 May, 2026
Where: Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
Price: Free entry
Plan your visit: https://cloud.communication.aldar.com/WeekofWonder#visit
Tuesday 12 May
Tuesday evening Mexican feast
A Tuesday night brunch, you say? Head over to Loca in Al Maryah Island for a Mexican night brunch. It kicks off with tableside guacamole and a bunch of starters like quesabirria and chicken flautas, then you can pick a main including their fajitas or burritos. To finish things off, there’s a Tres Leches cake for dessert.
You get unlimited bottled hops and margaritas or soft drinks depending on which package you go for. It’s a good spot for a casual dinner with friends if you’re in the mood for Mexican food and a relaxed vibe. They also have vegetarian and vegan options available
When: Every Tuesday
Where: Loca, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Price: 210 AED (Unlimited beer & margaritas) | 135 AED (Soft drinks)
Reserve a table: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/locaabudhabi
More details about the brunch here: https://www.locauae.com/tuesday-brunch-menu-auh
Wednesday 13 May
A creative mid-week break for young kids
421 Arts Campus is hosting a session this Wednesday that blends art and culture with a bit of movement. It’s a nice way to explore different subjects like geography or nature through storytelling and strategic play, like "Maths Chess," making the learning side of things feel more like a game.
There is even a self-served snack break where the kids can practice a bit of independence. The whole morning is designed to be very hands-on and simple, so it’s a great creative outlet if you have children aged 5 to 8.
You can drop in for a single session, though they do offer discounts if you decide to sign up for the full month or season. Just a heads-up that those longer-term spots need to be booked in advance. Otherwise, you can just attend individually.
When: Wednesday, 13 May 2026
Where: 421 Arts Campus, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi
Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Price: 60 AED (For a single session) For more details: click here
Registration: Email hello@421.online
Thursday 14 May
Something musical for the whole family this week
Head to the Cultural Foundation this Thursday for a musical evening for all ages. The UAE National Orchestra is hosting a family concert called “Once Upon a Tune,” and it’s designed to be interactive rather than just a formal sit-down show. They use storytelling and music together, which is a pretty cool way to keep everyone interested.
The program is split into sections where kids can learn about things like notes and duration through movement and games. There’s even a part where they can dance and react to the different emotions in the music.
The main live performance is called "The Carnival of the Animals," and uses animations and narration to bring everything to life.
When: Thursday, 14 May 2026
Where: Cultural Foundation, Abu Dhabi
Time: 6:30 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)
Book a spot: https://uaenationa
Friday 15 May
Start the weekend with some rhythmic jams
Kick off the weekend with some live jams, and head over to Hidden Bar at Rosewood Abu Dhabi for the latest edition of the Veiled Essence Experience this Friday.
On stage is Fafa, an Emirati/Honduran artist who brings influences from the Chicago blues scene to her performance. Her tracks are jazz and original songs inspired by personal experiences and conversations that celebrate diversity.
It is a good option if you want to experience a different side of the local music scene with longer sets and deep jams.
When: Friday, 15 May 2026
Where: Hidden Bar, Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Time: 9:11 PM onwards (Music starts at 10:10 PM)
Saturday 16 May
Kids free face painting at Dunken Monkey
Dunken Monkey on Reem Island is hosting a free face painting session for kids every Saturday, while parents can grab a coffee, a smoothie, or a quick bite. They also host live music on Saturday evenings.
When: May 16, 2026
Time: 12 Noon - 1:00 PM (live music from 7pm -10pm)
Where: Dunken Monkey, Radiant Heights, Reem Island
Price: Face painting is free
Sunday 17 May
The French Market returns to Abu Dhabi this Sunday
If you’re in the mood for some shopping this Sunday, head over to Dusit Thani. The French Market is back for its spring edition, bringing together more than 50 retailers under one roof.
You can browse everything from handmade jewellery and paintings to boutique fashion, candles, and soaps. There are options for most budgets, including bags, shoes, and locally inspired souvenirs. You can also check out the book fair happening alongside if you want to pick some new reading material.
When: Sunday, 17 May 2026
Where: Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Price: Free entry
