Things to do in Abu Dhabi this week: The ADR Week - 17 August - 23 August

If you're wondering how to spend the week, we’ve found some cool things to do in Abu Dhabi. From sports and family-friendly activities to live shows, workshops and a few other ways to mix up your usual routine.

Monday 17 August

Abu Dhabi Summer Sports

Get your sports fix at Abu Dhabi Summer Sports before it wraps up its fifth edition this Sunday. You can try out activities like football, badminton, and indoor cycling or go for something different with bouldering, golf simulators, pickleball and even a Warrior Ninja course. 

If you’re there to cheer someone on or just want to get your steps in, the running track is free, while courts, classes and other activities can be booked through the ADSS app. 

Where: ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, Halls 1-11

When: Monday, 17 August 2026; running until Sunday, 23 August 2026

Time: 6:00 am - 1:00 am

More info here

Tuesday 18 August

Golden Hour at Glo Abu Dhabi

Rosewood Abu Dhabi's rooftop bar GLO does a Golden Hour as the sun starts to dip. Grab a drink and watch the skyline change over Al Maryah Island as the evening sets in. 

Where: Glo, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island

When: Tuesday, 18 August 2026

More info here

Wednesday 19 August

Junior Marine Biologist at The National Aquarium

Got kids who won't stop asking about sharks and turtles? Sign them up for the Junior Marine Biologist programme at The National Aquarium. They'll step into the shoes of a marine biologist and learn what they do in their day job, including, caring for and feeding the animals, and monitoring their environment.

The session also includes a chance to help care for the resident rescue sea turtles. 

Where: The National Aquarium, Al Qana

When: Wednesday, 19 August 2026

Price: AED 199

Book your spot here

Thursday 20 August

Electric Ocean Festival at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi has gone neon for its Electric Ocean Festival, running until 30 August. Head along for DJ sets, a silent disco, pop-up performances and much more. You can hop on the rides, explore the eight ocean realms and also get to meet the SeaWorld character crew while you're there. 

Before you leave, pick up some glow-in-the-dark merch to take a little bit of the festival home with you. 

Where: SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island

When: Thursday 20 August 2026, running until 30 August

Price: From AED 320

Book your spot here

For more things to do in Abu Dhabi click here

Friday 21 August

Sonu Nigam: The Revolution Tour

Bollywood music fans, Sonu Nigam is bringing The Revolution Tour to Abu Dhabi this Friday. The Padma Shri-winning singer kicks off his global tour at Etihad Arena, with three decades of Bollywood hits on the setlist.

If Main Hoon Na or Suraj Hua Maddham gets you singing along, you'll have plenty of favourites to join in with on the night. 

Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island

When: Friday, 21 August 2026

Time: Doors 7:30 pm

Price: From AED 95

Book your spot here

Saturday 22 August

This Is Michael

Make your way to Etihad Arena this Saturday for This Is Michael, a two-hour live tribute to the King of Pop. Lenny Jay takes on the role of Michael Jackson, joined by a live band, dancers and singers. You’ll hear some of his biggest hits, from Billie Jean and Beat It to Thriller and Man in the Mirror. 

There'll be some of his signature choreography too, so yes, you can have a go at those moves from your seat. Who knows, you might even find yourself moonwalking. 

Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island 

When: Saturday, 22 August 2026

More details about the show here 

Book your spot here

Sunday 23 August

The Art of Making Jewellery at the Cultural Foundation

Ever wondered what goes into designing a piece of jewellery? Spend Sunday at the Cultural Foundation learning from jewellery designer Boubaker Boukhari, who’ll take you through the ideas and materials behind jewellery design. You'll get to explore materials including pearls, steel, crystals and stones, while learning the techniques and ideas that go into creating jewellery. 

Where: Al Marsam Al Hor, Cultural Foundation

When: Sunday, 23 August 2026

Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm or 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Price: AED 200 per session or AED 630 for four sessions

Book your spot here