Get Ready For a Jam-packed Event Season in Abu Dhabi. The Capital's Show-Stopping 2024-2025 Line-up Includes Live music, Food Festivals, Art exhibitions, and More

Abu Dhabi’s 2024-2025 season, has passion at its core, and it’s safe to say that there’s something for everyone— whether you’re into world-class music, championship sports, or immersive cultural moments.

Music that Moves You

There’s something about live music that hits different, and Abu Dhabi is bringing the heat this season. From the legends to today’s chart-toppers, the line-up is stacked. First up, the return of Coldplay. Yes, you read that right—Coldplay will light up Abu Dhabi again in early 2025, proving that good things come to those who wait. But that’s not all. Andrea Bocelli will bring his powerful tenor to Emirates Palace for a New Year’s Eve performance, and for those craving some ‘90s nostalgia, the Backstreet Boys are back, larger than life, and ready to take over Etihad Arena this October.

The music doesn’t stop there. November’s Wireless Festival Middle East will see SZA headline, and A.R. Rahman will give us all the feels with his soul-stirring anthems. December? Get ready for Maroon 5, Muse, and Eminem, who will be part of the epic Yasalam After-Race Concerts during the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Expect Abu Dhabi to turn into the concert capital of the region, with performances that promise to leave you buzzing for days.

Culture that Connects

Abu Dhabi’s 2024-2025 season dives deep into culture too. From the Traditional Handicrafts Festival in October to the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial in November, giving you more the chance to really experience the art scene.

Public spaces across Abu Dhabi will be transformed into open-air galleries for the Biennial, while November’s Abu Dhabi Art Fair will once again showcase a established and up-and-coming artists.

If you’re more into the performing arts, the Abu Dhabi Classics 2024 series is bringing the magic of Swan Lake on Ice, along with musical performances from Lang Lang and the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra.

Sports for Every Fan

If music and culture aren’t enough to get you going, Abu Dhabi’s sporting calendar is the stuff of dreams. Basketball fans are in for a treat with the return of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games in October, featuring not just two pre-season games, but a Fan Appreciation Day that’s bound to be a slam dunk.

Meanwhile, MMA lovers can gear up for UFC 308: Topuria vs. Holloway, headlining a packed Abu Dhabi Showdown Week.

And it wouldn’t be Abu Dhabi without some high-speed action. The Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is always a showstopper, but this year’s line-up of concerts and parties around the event promises to make it even more epic. With the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship and Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket also on the horizon, the sports scene here is as world-class as it gets.

Family Fun & Feasts

Let’s not forget the family fun—and the food! October brings Disney On Ice, a must-see for kids and adults alike, and later in November, the MOTN Festival will return to Al Dhafra, alongisde Abu Dhbia and Al Ain, bringing a mix of entertainment, adventure, and activities for all ages.

If you’re a foodie, this season is pure heaven. The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival Abu Dhabi in November will showcase global culinary stars, while Secret Dinners at Louvre Abu Dhabi will offer an intimate, art-inspired culinary journey in December.

And if that doesn’t satisfy your cravings, The Coffee Festival in early 2025 is brewing up something special for caffeine lovers.

Get your wallets and your stamina ready....this season is going to be busy!

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae