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Abu Dhabi is buzzing with excitement this festive season, and there is no better time to explore its mix of culture, luxury, and fun
Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates.
Abu Dhabi offers a lively mix of culture, luxury, and desert events, perfect for all ages — Enjoy everything from vibrant Filipino celebrations at Yas Waterworld to a unique UAE National Day experience at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Abu Dhabi is buzzing with excitement this festive season, and there is no better time to explore its mix of culture, luxury, and fun. From lively festivals to immersive cultural celebrations, the capital city has something for everyone. Here are the top experiences to check out, including an UAE National Day celebration at the luxurious Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.
Kabayan Nights at Yas Waterworld
On November 16, Yas Waterworld transforms into a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture with Kabayan Nights. For only AED 85, guests can enjoy karaoke, live Filipino music, and delicious food like lechon and halo-halo. The park’s glowing nighttime rides add extra excitement, making it a perfect blend of fun and cultural vibes.
UAE National Day at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Celebrate UAE National Day from This UAE National Day, escape to the serene beauty of the desert at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, where luxury meets Emirati heritage. From November 29 to December 3, immerse yourself in exclusive experiences blending tradition with modern luxury.
Activities for All Ages
Families can enjoy desert football, volleyball, and padel tournaments, along with mini- desert Olympics and water polo. Kids will love shawarma-making, sand art, and a falconry show that brings them closer to Emirati culture. Additionally, guests can unwind with “Cinema Under the Stars,” where they can watch films on the dunes beneath a starlit sky.
Wellness and Fitness
For fitness lovers, the resort offers mindfulness dune walks, ice baths, aqua aerobics, and desert hikes, creating the perfect balance of relaxation and energy.
Cultural Experience at Ezba
Don’t miss Ezba, the resort’s cultural farmhouse, where guests can experience sadu weaving, oud music, and meet Arabian horses, sand gazelles, and saluki dogs for a rich immersion in UAE heritage.
Anantara Spa
Complete your stay with the National Day special 60-minute treatment at the Anantara Spa. From the signature Desert Fusion Massage to rejuvenating head and deep-tissue therapies, the spa is a luxurious retreat designed to leave you refreshed and restored.
Meats and Mountains at Jebel Hafit Desert Park
From November 23 to December 21, Meats and Mountains returns with an outdoor BBQ festival at Jebel Hafit Desert Park. Enjoy Texas-style brisket, fire-cooked harees, and Arabic coffee as you take in the stunning desert landscape. There’s more than just food, too—look out for falconry displays, art and archaeology hikes, and live music by the bonfire.
MOTN Festival – An “Out of This World” Adventure
From November 28 to December 2, the MOTN Festival invites families to an intergalactic-themed celebration across Al Mugheirah Bay and Al Ain Square. Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) in partnership with Brag, MOTN will feature entertainment zones, games, and food stalls, it’s a playful way to celebrate UAE National Day weekend.