Abu Dhabi:The Abu Dhabi Calendar has announced a new season packed with over 40 major cultural, sporting, and entertainment events taking place across the emirate from late 2026 through early 2027.
According to Emirates News Agency, Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination brand of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, is offering a varied lineup that includes cultural events, art exhibitions, live concerts, and sporting competitions. Highlights include the Yasalam After-Race Concerts during the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the fourth season of Saadiyat Nights at a scenic coastal venue.
A prominent cultural event will be the inauguration of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi on December 11, designed by the late architect Frank Gehry, focusing on modern and contemporary art in the Saadiyat Cultural District. Additionally, Al Ain Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and Zayed National Museum will celebrate their first anniversaries in October.
The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi is set for December 8-10 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, under the theme "Towards a Reimagined Commons," attracting cultural leaders and policymakers globally. Frieze Abu Dhabi will debut at Manarat Al Saadiyat from November 19-22, and NOMAD Abu Dhabi will showcase contemporary art and design at the Old Abu Dhabi Airport from November 18-22.
The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial will commence in Al Ain Region on October 23 and in Abu Dhabi on November 15, with exhibitions extending into 2027. The Traditional Handicrafts Festival at Al Qattara in Al Ain Region will run from October 23 to November 11, offering live demonstrations and a traditional market.
The fifth Maritime Heritage Festival is scheduled for November 20-29 on Abu Dhabi Corniche, focusing on traditional seafaring and coastal cuisine. The Al Hosn Festival will occur from January 15-30, 2027, celebrating Emirati heritage and crafts.
On the sporting front, Abu Dhabi Showdown Week (UFC) returns on October 24, and the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be held from December 3-6, featuring four days of entertainment. The Liwa International Festival will occur in Al Dhafra in December, and Abu Dhabi Comedy Season will entertain with international comedians from October.
The Mother of the Nation Festival will also return, offering family activities, culinary experiences, and live performances across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Region, and Al Dhafra Region.