Abu Dhabi offers sunshine, pleasant temperatures and a packed calendar of events and experiences this winter
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a world in itself. It’s a place where each day offers a new layer of excitement, culture and intrigue. And if your client is looking to swap grey skies for golden sunsets this winter, Abu Dhabi is a dream destination, just a six-hour flight away.
While the Northern hemisphere prepares for frosty days, Abu Dhabi welcomes guests in warmth - offering sunshine, pleasant temperatures and a packed calendar of events and experiences, that are as diverse as they are memorable. Whether your client is a solo adventurer, a couple seeking romance, or a family craving fun for all, Abu Dhabi is the ultimate winter escape, and here’s why: Living culture and heritage Abu Dhabi’s intriguing heritage and culture add a fascinating layer to any holiday. Travellers can start their cultural journey at Qasr Al Hosn, which features the emirate’s oldest stone building and is a symbol of Emirati history. They can wander through the recreated Heritage Village, where traditional crafts and lifestyles come to life. Travellers can appreciate the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest and most breathtaking mosques. Its stunning architecture, picturesque courtyards and intricate artistry leave every visitor in awe. That commitment to multicultural exploration and tolerance is a hallmark of the UAE’s culture, reflected in the many landmarks and experiences that warmly welcome travellers from around the world to discover and appreciate Emirati heritage. To delve deeper into this rich cultural landscape, travellers can visit the immersive teamLab Phenomena, the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the presidential palace Qasr Al Watan, all of which showcase Abu Dhabi’s dedication to blending tradition with modern creativity. Travellers visiting at the end of the year will also be among the first to experience Zayed National Museum, set to open in December 2025 in Saadiyat Cultural District. This landmark institution will honour the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his vision for education, identity, and belonging. Winters on the beach For many travellers, the idea of basking in the sun while winter grips many parts of the world is a good enough reason to visit Abu Dhabi, where year-round sunny weather is almost guaranteed. The emirate’s stunning beaches, such as at Al Hudayriyat Island and Saadiyat Island, are made for rejuvenating siestas under clear, blue skies. And for thrill seekers, there’s Surf Abu Dhabi, the ultimate surfing destination in the Middle East, offering the perfect waves for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. Enjoy the great outdoors When the sun sets, Abu Dhabi’s vast, untouched desert beckons. Winter is the ideal time to go camping or glamping in Abu Dhabi, with cool temperatures and clear, star-filled skies. From Bedouin-style desert camps in the Liwa region, home to the Empty Quarter, to luxury glamping sites that offer all the comforts of a boutique hotel, there’s no better way to experience the magic of the Arabian dunes. For your clients who are seeking lush greenery and serenity, they can venture into the Al Ain Region, Abu Dhabi’s ‘Garden City’ and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Al Ain Region is a refreshing contrast to the urban skyline, with its sprawling oasis, ancient landmarks such as Al Jahili Fort and natural springs. Back-to-back calendar of events Further inland during the winter, Abu Dhabi truly comes alive, with a diverse calendar of world-class events. The sports highlight? The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (4-7 December). This much-anticipated racing event is one of the best in the F1 calendar and draws thousands each year, both for the buzz of the Yas Marina Circuit and roar of the engines, and for the Yasalam After-Race Concerts, where international artists light up the stage under the stars. This year’s confirmed artists include Benson Boone, Post Malone, Metallica, and Katy Perry. Families and children can also look forward to Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party (27 September) - a dazzling display of power, fun, and jaw-dropping stunts that will leave everyone wide-eyed with excitement. Golf lovers shouldn’t miss the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship (6–9 November), which brings together the world’s top golfers at the beautiful Yas Links Golf Course. Admission is free on the Thursday and Friday. [RM1] Or, for those in the mood for a Broadway hit, catch ‘Beetlejuice The Musical’ (20- 30 November), a hilarious and spooky stage show that adds an extra touch of magic to a stay in Abu Dhabi. Theme parks galore Are your clients travelling with kids or just young at heart? Abu Dhabi’s theme parks on Yas Island deliver endless thrills. Feel your heart race on Formula Rossa at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Meet your favourite superheroes and cartoon characters at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks. Or splash your way through the newly expanded Yas Waterworld’s slides and wave pools. Events with an Abu Dhabi twist December also comes with plenty of Christmas celebrations. For travellers who love the festive season, Abu Dhabi offers a warmer twist on Christmas. The emirate is known for its respect and openness towards all cultures and beliefs, and you’ll find plenty of malls and hotels dressed in sparkling lights and filled with holiday cheer. Luxury hotels host wholesome Christmas brunches, malls put on special décor and events for families, and exclusive staycation deals make it easy to celebrate in style. It’s a chance to combine the magic of Christmas with sun-drenched days, an experience that simply won’t be found back home. For more information on winter in Abu Dhabi, reach out to contact@visitabudhabi.ae