Things to do in Abu Dhabi this week: The ADR Week - 21 September - 27 September
There’s lots happening around Abu Dhabi this week, a Mexican brunch, creative workshops, yoga, and activities for the kids. Here’s our pick of things to do in Abu Dhabi this week.
Monday 21 September
Kids eat free at Vapiano
For an Italian meal with the family, head to Vapiano. Kids can eat for free when you buy an adult meal, throughout September.
There’s fresh handmade pasta, pizza, gnocchi, risotto, and dishes like ricotta and spinach ravioli, truffle gnocchi, burrata pizza, and lasagne to try. They’ve also launched a new breakfast menu, so there’s something new to try if you’re popping in earlier in the day.
The offer is for children aged 12 and under and is available for dine-in only.
Where: Vapiano, multiple locations
When: Monday, 21 September 2026; Running until 30 September 2026
More info here
Tuesday 22 September
Tuesday night brunch at Loca
Go Mexican this Tuesday night as Loca is hosting a night brunch where you’ll get appetisers like tableside guacamole and warm corn chips, followed by quesabirria, chicken flautas, spinach and artichoke dip, or agua chile de camarones.
For your main, there’s tostada salad with achiote chicken, beef tenderloin, or shrimp, plus burritos and fajitas with your choice of chicken, beef, or vegetables. Don’t forget to save room for tres leches cake to finish.
Where: Loca Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesday, 22 September 2026
Time: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Price: From AED 135
More info here
Wednesday 23 September
Sketch and Paint with Jina Sharif
Head to Al Marsam Al Hor at Cultural Foundation for a guided drawing and oil painting session with artist Jina Sharif. You’ll work through drawing basics before moving on to oil painting, with opportunities to explore your own style.
Where: Al Marsam Al Hor, Cultural Foundation
When: Wednesday, 23 September 2026
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Price: From AED 50
More info here
Thursday 24 September
Merchants & Makers pop-up at Abu Dhabi mall
This pop-up will feature local brands and independent makers showcasing their handcrafted items for the day.
You’ll also get the opportunity to connect directly with the local artists and creators behind the stalls, while you support UAE-based small businesses.
Where: Abu Dhabi Mall
When: Thursday, 24 September 2026
Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
More info here
For more things to do in Abu Dhabi click here
Friday 25 September
Yoga at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
Start your Friday with a feel-good morning yoga session at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr. It’s an all-levels class, so you can join in for a stretch and some movement, even if yoga isn’t part of your usual routine.
Once the class wraps up, refuel with healthy food, snacks, and refreshments, and take some time to chat and hang out before heading off for the day.
All ticket proceeds will go to Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE.
Where: Nurai Ballroom, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
When: Friday, 25 September 2026
Time: Arrival at 9:00 am; yoga from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Price: AED 120 per person
Book your spot here
Bring your furry buddy to Al Shamkha Square
Abu Dhabi Municipality is hosting a three-day gathering at Al Shamkha Square where your furry buddy can come along and enjoy a change of scenery.
There’ll be pet adoption and registration, awareness workshops, entertainment, and cool activities to check out while you’re there.
No registration is needed, so you can drop by on any of the featured days.
Where: Al Shamkha Square
When: Friday, 25 September 2026; Running until Sunday, 27 September 2026
Time: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Price: Free entry
More info here
Saturday 26 September
Watch Local Talents Perform at JALSA
Spend your Saturday evening at JALSA’s final chapter, The Stars.
More than 50 local artists will be performing music, sharing stories, and putting on live performances throughout the evening.
This final chapter takes inspiration from the stars that once guided journeys across the UAE.
Doors open at 6:00 pm, and the first 500 seats are free. You’ll need to RSVP, so be sure to sign up in advance.
Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat
When: Saturday, 26 September 2026
Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm
Price: Free for the first 500 seats
RSVP here
Sunday 27 September
Illusion Art Workshop at Milestone Cafe
Kids aged seven to 13 can spend Sunday morning getting creative with shapes, colours, and perception at this Illusion Art Workshop by Art and Pause. They’ll play around with optical illusions and create their own artwork, with plenty of room to experiment along the way.
And there’s a little treat for them, too. Each child gets a free doughnut after the session.
Where: Milestones Coffee, Al Mamoura
When: Sunday, 27 September 2026
Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Price: AED 99
Ages: 7 - 13 years
More info here
