Abu Dhabi has plenty to offer as October draws to a close, with family-friendly workshops, cultural attractions, live horse racing and exciting dining experiences across the capital. Whether you are planning an afternoon with children, looking for something creative to do after work or hoping to discover a new restaurant, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the week.
From exploring traditional Emirati crafts in Al Ain to discovering maritime history at Louvre Abu Dhabi, here are 10 things to do in Abu Dhabi this week.
1. Discover The Very Hungry Caterpillar at Kinokuniya
Families with young children can enjoy a storytelling session inspired by The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the much-loved children’s book by Eric Carle.
Hosted at Kinokuniya in The Galleria Al Maryah Island, the session combines storytelling with colouring and creative activities. It is designed for children aged two to five, making it a suitable introduction to books and imaginative play.
The event is particularly appealing to parents looking for a simple, engaging activity that encourages children to explore stories beyond the pages of a book.
Location: Kinokuniya, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Date: Monday, October 26, at 4pm
Price: Free, with limited spaces
Advance reservations are recommended because availability is limited.
2. Join a Free Children’s Workshop at World Trade Center Abu Dhabi
A shopping trip can become a creative afternoon at World Trade Center Abu Dhabi, which hosts regular workshops for children aged 14 and under.
The sessions include activities such as painting, crafts and other creative projects designed to keep young visitors engaged. Parents can combine the workshop with shopping or a meal, making it a convenient option for a family outing.
Although entry to the workshop is free, participating families must spend at least AED 150 at the mall on the day.
Location: World Trade Center Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesdays, from 4pm to 9pm
Price: Free with a minimum AED 150 mall spend
3. Watch Sunset Horse Racing at Abu Dhabi Turf Club
For an alternative to the usual after-work routine, head to Abu Dhabi Turf Club for an evening of horse racing.
The Sunset at the Turf experience combines live racing with views across the track and a garden setting where visitors can meet friends and enjoy food and drinks. It offers a different atmosphere from the city’s traditional restaurant and entertainment venues.
General admission starts at AED 10, making it a relatively accessible option for those interested in experiencing the excitement of race day. Visitors seeking a more elevated experience can consider Premier Admission, which starts at AED 80.
Location: Abu Dhabi Turf Club, Al Mushrif
When: Selected Thursdays, from 5pm to 8pm
Price: General admission from AED 10; Premier Admission from AED 80
Check the club’s schedule before visiting, as racing takes place on selected dates.
4. Explore Art and Books at 421 Arts Campus
Art enthusiasts can spend a relaxed afternoon at 421 Arts Campus, a creative destination that brings contemporary art and community activities together.
One of the featured experiences is Revelation, an immersive installation by Emirati artist Juma Alhaj. Visitors can also explore the campus library or look into Art in Play sessions, which introduce younger visitors to creative activities.
The venue offers a change of pace for anyone looking to spend time away from shopping centres and conventional tourist attractions. It is also a useful option for visitors interested in discovering Abu Dhabi’s contemporary art scene.
Location: 421 Arts Campus, Abu Dhabi
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm
Price: Check with the venue for current admission details
5. Go Gem Hunting at Khalidiyah Mall
Khalidiyah Mall is adding a playful element to the shopping experience with its Gem Quest activation.
The family-friendly attraction includes gem mining, a Lockup puzzle challenge and a pixel art wall where visitors can explore their creative side. It gives children something engaging to do while parents take care of their shopping.
The activation is particularly convenient for families looking for an activity that does not require a full-day commitment. The minimum spending requirement also makes it possible to combine the experience with an ordinary shopping trip.
Location: Khalidiyah Mall, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily until Sunday, November 1
Price: Free with a minimum AED 50 mall spend
6. Celebrate Emirati Heritage at Al Ain’s Traditional Handicrafts Festival
Those willing to travel beyond the capital can discover the UAE’s cultural traditions at the Traditional Handicrafts Festival in Al Ain.
Hosted at Souq Al Qattara, the festival brings together artisans, designers and local families to celebrate traditional skills and craftsmanship. Visitors can watch demonstrations, participate in workshops and enjoy performances and games.
Now in its 12th edition, the festival offers an opportunity to learn more about the country’s cultural heritage through activities that connect traditional techniques with contemporary audiences.
It is an appealing choice for families, culture enthusiasts and anyone seeking a different kind of weekend outing.
Location: Souq Al Qattara, Al Ain
When: Daily until Wednesday, November 11
Opening hours: 4pm to 11pm on weekdays and 4pm to midnight on weekends
Price: Free entry
7. Discover Maritime History at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Visitors interested in history can explore Spices and Wonders: Sailing the Indian Ocean at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
The exhibition examines approximately 1,000 years of maritime history, exploring how sea routes connected communities across Africa, Asia and other regions. Through stories of navigation, shipwrecks, trade and valuable cargo, it highlights the movement of goods, ideas and cultural influences across the Indian Ocean.
The exhibition provides an opportunity to understand how maritime trade helped shape relationships between different civilisations.
Located on Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi also offers visitors the chance to explore the museum’s wider collection and distinctive architecture.
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
Price: Museum entry listed at AED 70
Check the museum’s current exhibition schedule before planning your visit.
8. Enjoy a Chinese Feast at Shang Palace
For a special dinner, Shang Palace at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri is presenting a limited-time culinary experience celebrating traditional Chinese cuisine.
The menu features handcrafted dim sum, nourishing soups and dishes such as braised E Fu noodles with lobster and cheese, wok-fried scallops in XO sauce and black pepper Wagyu beef. Guests can finish their meal with mango soup and coconut ice cream.
A five-course menu with tea or wine pairing is also available, alongside a dedicated vegetarian selection.
The experience is suited to couples planning a date night or diners looking to explore Chinese flavours in an elegant setting.
Location: Shang Palace, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily, 6pm to 10:30pm, until October 31
Reservations: 02 509 8555
Since this is a limited-time offer, confirm availability and menu details before booking.
9. Make Tuesday Taco Night
Taco Tuesday offers an easy way to add something different to the middle of the week.
Abu Dhabi has a range of Mexican-inspired dining options, from casual eateries to restaurants offering more elaborate meals. Depending on the venue, diners may find special taco deals and other offers that make a weekday dinner more affordable.
The idea is simple: gather friends, try a new restaurant and make dinner part of the week’s plans rather than another routine meal at home.
Because offers vary between restaurants, check the latest menus, prices and booking requirements before heading out.
10. Enjoy an Iranian Feast at Berenjak
Berenjak Abu Dhabi is another option for anyone planning a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends.
Inspired by traditional eateries in Tehran, the restaurant serves Iranian favourites, including mezze, warm bread, kebabs, slow-cooked stews and tahdig, the golden, crispy rice that is a highlight of Persian cuisine.
The menu offers an opportunity to explore the flavours and traditions of Iranian cooking in a lively restaurant setting. It is suitable for diners who enjoy sharing dishes and trying a variety of flavours at the table.
Location: Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, noon to 4pm and 6pm to 11:30pm; Friday and Saturday, noon to 12:30am; Sunday, noon to 11:30pm
Indicative cost: Around AED 250 for two
Contact: 02 643 3776
Make the Most of Abu Dhabi This Week
From free children’s activities and contemporary art to cultural festivals, horse racing and memorable dining, Abu Dhabi offers something for different ages and interests this week.
Families can start with the storytelling session or Gem Quest, while art lovers may prefer 421 Arts Campus or Louvre Abu Dhabi. For an evening out, the Chinese dining experience at Shang Palace and an Iranian meal at Berenjak offer two very different culinary experiences.
Before you go, confirm dates, prices and availability directly with each venue. Some activities have limited spaces or minimum-spend requirements, while certain experiences are available only on specific days.
With a little planning, the final week of October is a good opportunity to explore more of Abu Dhabi, discover new experiences and make time for something different.
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