Abu Dhabi offers a vibrant mix of cultural, sporting, and entertainment events for the weekend of March 8 to 10. From ultra-chic nightlife hotspots to world-class sporting events, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the UAE capital over these three days.
This preview highlights seven amazing activities happening around Abu Dhabi, giving a taste of the diverse attractions drawing visitors in. From pearl-adorned bubbly bars to open-fire dining under the stars, martial arts spectacles to museum immersions, these picks promise an unforgettable weekend in the Emirate.
Activity #1: Perlage Ultra-chic Bubbly Bar
The Perlage Bubbly Bar at the Abu Dhabi Edition is the place to sparkle this Friday night with its “Femme Fatale” event. As one of the city’s most fashionable rooftop bars, Perlage will host this ladies-only soiree from 9 PM onwards with free-flowing bubbles to celebrate women in the capital.
The dress code sets an ultra-glamorous tone with guests encouraged to don black and white attire with a touch of “Femme Fatale” flair. Along with exquisite views of the Abu Dhabi skyline, the evening promises live entertainment and musical performances to dance the night away.
Activity #2: Games 2024 by ADQ
As part of Abu Dhabi’s drive to host major sporting events, the city will play host to the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 from March 8 to 10. This inaugural exhibition series promises to give basketball fans in the region a world-class spectacle right on their doorstep.
The two headline events are the marquee games between the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks on March 8 and 9. These Eastern conference rivals will face off at Etihad Arena, marking the first time regular season NBA action has come to the Middle East and Africa region.
Beyond the on-court action, the festival-style event will allow attendees to engage with NBA personalities through interviews and clinics. Fans can also enjoy music, food, and family-friendly activations over the three days for a fully immersive sporting and cultural experience.
Activity #3: UFC Epic Return to Abu Dhabi
Following the record-breaking success of UFC 280 last October, the world’s premier mixed martial arts promotion has announced its return to Abu Dhabi on August 3, 2024. This event promises to build on the Emirate’s reputation as a global hub for combat sports.
UFC President Dana White has expressed his eagerness to bring the Octagon back to the UAE capital, buoyed by the rapturous reception from fans in the region. With Abu Dhabi’s state-of-the-art facilities at Etihad Arena, the city has firmly established itself as a favored UFC destination.
The specific fights and card for the August 3 event are yet to be confirmed. However, Abu Dhabi has hosted numerous UFC championship bouts in recent years, suggesting the 2024 showcase will feature the sport’s biggest names.
Activity #4: Shang Palace Japanese Culture Experience
For those seeking cultural immersion this weekend, the Shang Palace at Shangri-La Hotel offers a vibrant glimpse into Japanese traditions on March 10. This one-day-only experience transports attendees to the Land of the Rising Sun without leaving Abu Dhabi.
Shang Palace will decorate its restaurant interior with cherry blossom trees, origami, and Japanese lanterns to embrace an authentic atmosphere. The culinary team will prepare specialized dishes like sashimi, ramen, and robatayaki grilled skewers to showcase Japanese flavors.
By offering this vibrant Japanese cultural experience, Shang Palace spotlights the diversity of events happening every week in Abu Dhabi beyond sports and nightlife attractions.
Activity #5: SALT Camp Japanese Odyssey
As a continuation of Louvre Abu Dhabi’s efforts to spotlight diverse global cultures, the museum’s SALT space will host a Japanese odyssey event on Sunday, March 10th. This cultural camp aims to take visitors on an immersive journey through the traditions of the Land of the Rising Sun.
The day will commence with energetic Japanese drumming workshops, allowing attendees to learn and practice on traditional Taiko drums. Later activities include origami folding sessions, calligraphy lessons for writing Japanese characters, and an illuminating tea ceremony.
By offering this vibrant glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage, the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s SALT space spotlights the diversity of creative events happening every week in the capital. For visitors seeking to expand their horizons this weekend without leaving the UAE, this Japanese odyssey promises an inspirational day of sights, sounds, flavors and creativity.
Activity #6: Louvre Abu Dhabi Visit
As one of Abu Dhabi’s architectural marvels and cultural landmarks, no weekend would be complete without a visit to Louvre Abu Dhabi. Beyond its striking design and world-class permanent collection, the museum always offers an array of special exhibitions and events.
This weekend shines a spotlight on Louvre Abu Dhabi’s recently opened “Stories of Paper” display, running in the Children’s Museum gallery. This playful and interactive exhibit spotlights paper’s artistic and functional roles across civilizations through creative sets, installations, and activities.
Younger visitors can dress up as traditional papermakers, perform shadow puppet shows, and craft their own decorative items. For grown-ups, there are insightful displays on paper manufacturing methods, artistic techniques, and changing societal roles over history.
Activity #7: Jones Social Hangout
For laidback socializing under Abu Dhabi’s starry skies, the vibrant Jones Social restaurant at the Makers District on Hudayriyat Island promises a stellar weekend venue. Blending casual open-air dining with entertainment and mingling, it’s a coveted hangout spot for good reason.
Jones Social has perfected effortless al fresco lounging with hanging rattan chairs, comfy benches strewn with cushions, and sandy nooks that feel a world away from the city. The menu also dazzles with creations from its show-stopping open fire grill, turning everything from seafood to vegetables into smoky, aromatic treats.
Add in regular live DJ sets and entertainment, from roaming percussionists to creative workshops, and this Hudayriyat Island gem promises the ultimate weekend refuge for quality conversation, mouthwatering grilled bites and effervescent experiences under the stars.
Conclusion
With concerts and culinary events, family-friendly cultural camps, adrenaline-charged sporting action, and atmospheric open-air lounging, Abu Dhabi once again showcases its incredible diversity of attractions this March 8 to 10 weekend. From the ultra-chic Perlage Bubbly Bar to the NBA Abu Dhabi Games showcase, UFC’s long-awaited return and Louvre Abu Dhabi’s paper stories, there are experiences to thrill every visitor. The city underlines its credentials as a world-leading events destination, seamlessly blending international-caliber offerings with regional soul. For those seeking vibrant culture, entertainment, dining and community over three unforgettable days in the capital, Abu Dhabi stands ready to welcome all.
