Ultimate Indoor Activities in Abu Dhabi | Things to do

When it’s too hot to spend the day outside, there are still plenty of things to do indoors. From art and culture to gaming, snow, climbing and pottery, here are a few indoor activities to add to your Abu Dhabi plans. 

ART AND CULTURE | GAMING | ADVENTURES | CREATIVE

ART AND CULTURE 

Cultural Foundation

Spend a few hours at the Cultural Foundation exploring its exhibitions, catching a performance or seeing what's on across its programme of workshops and talks. If you don't have anything particular in mind, you can simply wander around the building and settle in with a book at the library.

There's also a Music Booth pop-up at the Cultural Foundation, with private booths where you can record, rehearse, teach or just have a jam. The music booth comes with a piano, while the podcast booth has microphones, headphones and a digital mixer. 

We gave the booths a go while we were there. Watch our reel here for a sneak peek. 

More info here

Bassam Freiha Art Foundation

If you’re an art lover looking to spend a quiet couple of hours away from the usual bustle, head to the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation. The galleries feature paintings, sculptures and other works from the region, alongside pieces by international artists, and the exhibitions change throughout the year. Entry is free, so there’s no rush to get through the galleries.

Once you’ve finished looking around, stop for a coffee or a quick bite at Café des Artistes, which is also part of the foundation.

More info here 

Manarat Al Saadiyat

There’s always something happening at Manarat Al Saadiyat, from exhibitions and films to workshops and cultural events. If you’re feeling creative, you can get your hands dirty with drawing, painting or ceramics at the Art Studio. 

When you need a break, Taparelle serves French-Italian food within the Cultural District.

More info here

GAMING

Pixoul Gaming

If gaming is your thing, Pixoul at Al Qana takes things beyond the usual console setup. There are 10 VR experiences across five zones, with wireless headsets putting you into everything from racing and flight simulators to escape rooms and multiplayer battles.

Get behind the wheel with Mach 6 Racer, take on your friends in the four-player Battle Rush, or head into Pixel Recon for a free-roaming boss battle. 

There’s also an Esports Bar where you can grab snacks, sandwiches, smoothies and drinks between games.

More info here

ADVENTURES 

Snow Abu Dhabi

Swap your sandals for snow boots at Snow Abu Dhabi in Reem Mall. Take a ride on the Polar Express Train, spin around on the Crystal Carousel or race down the toboggan runs. There’s also plenty of snow to play in, throw around and, inevitably, end up on your clothes.

Don’t worry about bringing your own gear, as jackets, boots, gloves and other essentials are provided. 

More info here 

CLYMB Abu Dhabi

Burn off some energy at CLYMB Abu Dhabi with indoor climbing and skydiving under one roof. Start with the easier climbing walls and work your way up through the different levels, or take on SUMMYT, the 138ft climbing challenge if you’re feeling brave.

There’s also indoor skydiving, where you’ll step into the wind tunnel and learn how to control your body in the air. An instructor will take you through the basics, so you can give it a go even if you’ve never tried it before.

More info here  

CREATIVE 

Studio CLAY

If you prefer switching off and making something with your hands, Studio CLAY is a chance to create something from scratch. Try your hand at the pottery wheel or learn the basics of hand-building and shape your own piece. 

You don’t need any pottery experience, so you can simply turn up and have a go. Just come ready to get your hands covered in clay.

More info here