What to know about the London Film Festival 2026

This weekend in Abu Dhabi (October 9-11, 2026), there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from classical music and movies under the stars to museum visits and environmental film festivals. The UAE National Orchestra will perform at the Etihad Arena on October 10 at 8pm, featuring pieces like Suppé’s Light Cavalry Overture, Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8.

For those who prefer the night in, the Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island offers a day pass with pool access, food, and beverages, along with a gym, sports activities, spa, and a kids club. L’ETO Restaurant on Galleria Mall serves up a royal breakfast featuring dishes like alphonso mango bowl, wagyu sausage and egg breakfast bun, and truffle brie and scrambled eggs on sourdough toast.

The Abu Dhabi Natural History Museum has a scavenger hunt, asteroid belt viewing, and story-telling sessions throughout the day, with the scavenger hunt starting at 3pm, asteroid belt at 2pm and 6pm, and story-telling at 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm. Meanwhile, the Sidr Environmental Film Festival at NYU Abu Dhabi runs from October 9-11, focusing on restoration efforts for natural habitats and species.

Umm Al Emarat Park will host family-friendly movies every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday this month, with selections including Over the Hedge, Small Foot, A Minecraft Movie, and Sing. On a budget, there are 11 free things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend, along with other affordable activities.