Let's start 2023 off right with health-focused and cultural events in the capital. Here's a round-up of the events and happenings in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Join the Al Qana Community Run
Running enthusiasts are in for a treat with the all-new Al Qana Community Run.
Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Al Qana are getting together to launch the Al Qana Community Run. This community-based event will take place on 7th January and aims to provide families, individuals, clubs, and athletic groups with a unique race experience in a competitive but social setting.
The race offers the perfect opportunity to explore one of Abu Dhabi's most exciting spots, mingle with the community, and kick off 2023 strong.
The run takes place in Al Qana - Rabdan Area, Abu Dhabi, at 7:00 am, and participants can choose from 1km, 3km, 5km, or 10km circuits along the waterfront destination.
Runners aged five and up can register online to participate. Race numbers will be sent via SMS the night before the event, and race packs can be picked up at the Race Village 30 minutes before the event starts.
What: Al Qana Community Run
Where: Al Qana - Rabdan Area, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, 7th January
Timing: 7 am
Pricing: AED 57.75 per person. Tickets are available here.
The Park Market at Umm Al Emarat Park
The annual outdoor event is back until 18th March every Friday and Saturday. Park Market brings the community together to experience a fun family day out filled with local food, organic products, goods, and entertainment.
The Park Market has something for everyone and is an excellent way for the whole family to spend time outdoors.
What: The Park Market
Where: Umm Al Emarat Park, Mushrif Area
When: Every Friday and Saturday
4th November 2022 – 18th March 2023
Timing: 3 pm – 9 pm
Pricing: Free to enter
The Ripe Market Al Maryah Island
Explore mouthwatering food, diverse crafts, and live entertainment at The Ripe Market, Academy Park, every weekend from 2 December 2022 – 30 April 2023. With an abundance of dining options by the crate-load, The Ripe Market is a shopping hotspot for residents and visitors alike. The market supports local businesses and offers a range of goods and garments, from wooden crafts to unique toys and other items, perfect for take-home gifts.
What: The Ripe Market Al Maryah Island
Where: South Plaza, Al Maryah Island
When: Every Friday and Saturday
2 December 2022 – 30 April 2023
Timing: 3 pm – 10 pm
Pricing: Free to enter
Visit Al Dhafra Festival
The 16th Al Dhafra Festival is currently underway as part of the emirate's camel beauty contest season. The event is being held under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Al Dhafra Festival is organised by Cultural Programmes and Heritage Festivals Committee - Abu Dhabi. The festival's aim is to preserve and develop heritage activities, enabling camel owners to continue the tradition of caring for camels and highlighting the role of camels in the UAE's culture.
What: Al Dhafra Festival
Where: Al Dhafra, Al Gharbia Region near Madinat Zayed
When: 28th October 2022 - 31st January 2023
Timing: 04:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Pricing: Free
Visit the Sheikh Zayed Festival
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, and the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, the Sheikh Zayed Festival launched on 18 November 2022 and will run until 18 March 2023.
The festival includes a variety of entertainment, educational and cultural events from 27 countries and cultures, more than 60 restaurants serving food and beverage, and daily folklore performances spread over 120 days of fun and entertainment for the whole family.
What: Sheikh Zayed Festival
Where: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
When: 18 November 2022 - 18 March 2023
Timing: 4 pm until 12 am.
Pricing: AED 5. Buy tickets
Entry is free for people of determination, children under the age of 3 and the elderly (above the age of 65).
